《Otherworldly Merchant》


 Chapter 1: The Embroidered Shoe

    Chapter 1: The Embroidered Shoe


    Its said that human beings would be shrewder with time; the same was true for antiques. They, too, would develop intelligence and be ''spirits'' as time passed.


    Jade bracelets, idols, swords, etc. to name a few.


    If any of you have ever noticed strange things happening in your house, like weird movements in your living room or kitchen around midnight, it might be due to an antique youve collected!


    People that were in this line of business called antiques that had be spirits ''otherworldly items''.


    If ced in the hands of someone that didn''t know how to handle them, these otherworldly items would frequently bring them misfortune, or even cause their death.


    But, if used properly, they couldpletely change one''s career and love life. For this reason, VIPs and people from influential families were greatly interested in otherworldly items.


    If there were a demand, there would be a supply. As such, merchants of otherworldly items were born.


    Our Zhang Family has been in this business for three generations.


    ording to the rumors, my grandfather once dug out the eye of a Kappa, selling it to Yuan Shikai[1]. Afterward, Yuan Shikai went from being a mere warlord to being an Emperor.


    In the past, my father sold the treasured sword that Wu Zixu[2] had used tomit suicide to a certain cross-talkedian with the surname Zhao. Later, thisedian immediately rose to poprity, bing famous throughout the country and even making an appearance at the Spring Festival Evening Party.


    During my generation, the market of otherworldly items grew substantially, and the fingers of both hands weren''t enough to count the number of well-known celebrities I ended up meeting.


    Now, I would like to tell you my story.


    In the year 2000, I inherited my father''s antique shop.


    The front of the shop was rather small, located in the most unremarkable corner of the street.


    Since things had just started and I didn''t have much experience, the business didn''t really bloom after the shop fell into my hands. There was a period where the money I was making wasn''t even enough to fill my stomach.


    The first time I came into contact with an otherworldly item was during this period.


    That day, I was sitting in my small shop with wine and beef, gazing at the deserted main street. I was somewhat starting to enjoy this life.


    Apart from the peculiar business my family engaged in, our shop also had a bizarre opening time. Wed do business only after the sun had set, and this custom had been going on for three generations. Because of this, our family was very well respected in this street full of antique shops as wed never steal customers from others.


    It was at this time that Li Mazi stealthily came over. He was holding something that was wrapped up in ck cloth.


    Li Mazi was a colleague, and his shop was located at the end of the street, on the west side.


    "Hey, Little Brother Zhang, drinking wine?" After seeing me, Li Mazi rxed, and he sat beside me with no trace of politeness.


    In the past, my father had taught me how to discern a person''s thoughts from their bodynguage. Therefore, I could tell from Li Mazi''s actions that he was in trouble. Otherwise, there would be no reason for him to have been anxious on the way over, and then suddenly rxing after seeing me.


    Although I had no other unique ability, I was able to y the part of a cool, calm, and collected expert.


    I asked calmly, "Li Mazi, do you need something? If so, speak frankly."


    Li Mazi became nervous once more. He quietly jogged toward the entrance and poked his head outside to take a look around. After making sure that no one was nearby, he closed the door while acting all mysterious.


    Then, he ced the bundle wrapped in ck cloth in front of me. "Little Brother Zhang, it seems that I got my hands on one of those otherworldly items."


    An otherworldly item!


    Those two words immediately aroused my interest. I gazed at the bundle with a serious expression and stretched out my hand, preparing to reveal the contents hidden within the ck wrapping.


    However, Li Mazi quickly stopped me. "Little Brother Zhang, this thing is evil, and it would be best not to touch it. Strange things started happening in my house once I received this thing..."


    After hearing those words, I also became a little nervous. In our area, Li Mazi was known for his courage. If he was scared out of his wits, then this item was far from ordinary.


    I said sternly, "Just what the hell happened at your ce? Tell me the whole story."


    Li Mazi sighed and started to narrate the story of the otherworldly item.


    Li Mazi had the habit of bargain-hunting all year round and roaming throughout the country. He would stop whenever he saw a vige and see if he could collect one or two valuable antiques.


    This time, while returning from his hometown, he made a few deals along the way. Among the things he got was this otherworldly item, an embroidered shoe.


    After ncing at the shoe, one could instantly tell that it had a history. The style of this shoe dated way back to the Qing Dynasty.


    Since his shop had yet to open for business, Li Mazi decided to leave the embroidered shoe in his house temporarily.


    However, strange things immediately started happening.


    That same evening, when Li Mazi returned home after drinking with his buddies, he discovered that the embroidered shoe had disappeared. He turned the whole living room upside down, but he was still unable to find it.


    Back then, he just thought that hed drank too much and had forgotten where hed ced the shoe. As such, he didn''t pay it too much attention.


    But, right after midnight, the sleepy Li Mazi felt as though someone was walking around in his living room. Therefore, he got up and went to check.


    The light of the living room was off, and the cold moonlight illuminated the ce through the window, giving it a dreary aura.


    Thanks to the moonlight, he noticed a human figure in the living room. The figure was sweeping the floor, washing clothes, and doing the dishes.


    Li Mazi stepped forward so that he could take a better look. In the next moment, he discovered that the figure was none other than his son. His son was staring without blinking and had an eerie expression on his face.


    Li Mazi''s wife had died long ago. As such, the father and son could only depend on each other. After seeing how sensible his son was being, Li Mazi was overjoyed and praised him.


    However, his son acted as though he hadn''t heard Li Mazi''spliment and just kept doing the dishes. The oblivious Li Mazi thought that his son was angry with him because hed been drinking too much recently. Due to this, he didn''t take it to heart and went back to sleep.


    But, little did he expect that during the next few days, his son would continue to wake up at midnight like clockwork. Each night, he would sweep the floor and do the dishes.


    Both the floors and the dishes were clean already, and yet, his son would keep sweeping and wiping!


    Li Mazi found the whole thing very strange. As far as he remembered, his son hadn''t ever suffered from somnambulism! As such, what was going on with him for the past few days? People would indeed sleepwalk, but hed barely heard of someone sleepwalking every day!


    Li Mazi finally took things seriously and carefully sized up his son. Then, he made a frightening discovery... he found that his son was wearing that embroidered shoe on his foot!


    It was the same embroidered shoe that hed brought back from the countryside a few days ago!


    A boy wearing an embroidered shoe, strolling through the living room in the middle of the night, and doing strange things... Li Mazi''s hair stood on end.


    He immediately realized that there was something wrong with the embroidered shoe.


    Therefore, the next day, he didn''t hesitate and hurled the embroidered shoe to a faraway ce.


    However, the matter didn''t end there. That same night, Li Mazi heard the voice of a womaning from his son''s room.


    As such, he rushed into the room, making another frightening discovery. The embroidered shoe hed thrown away earlier hade back and was once again on his son''s foot.


    At this time, his son was earnestly performing the y of the Yue opera with his thumb and forefinger touching, and the rest of his fingers extended[3].


    His voice was the same as that of a womans.


    After seeing Li Mazi, the boy curled up his lips andughed weirdly.


    Li Mazi turned pale with fright and immediately tried to wake up his son. After returning to his senses, the boy couldn''t remember anything. He didn''t even know where that embroidered shoe hade from.


    Li Mazi was in a state of panic, and he decided to toss the embroidered shoe into the well outside.


    However, the following night, Li Mazi felt as though he was suffocating and woke up. When he opened his eyes, he discovered that a dripping wet figure, his son, to be precise, was trying to choke him.


    While trying to strangle him, he shouted, "Why?! Why did you drown me?!"


    The strength behind the grip was tremendous, and definitely beyond what a young boy possessed.


    If Li Mazi hadn''t grabbed a nearby bottle of wine, breaking it on his son''s head, he would have likely been strangled to death that very night.


    After returning to his senses, Li Mazi noticed that his son was drenched. And, of course, that soaking wet embroidered shoe was also worn on his foot.


    He immediately realized that his son had climbed down the well and retrieved the embroidered shoe...


    However, the well was pretty deep, and there was nothing one could use as support. How did his son get down there? After thinking up to this point, Li Mazi shivered.


    His son meant everything to him, and if something were to happen to him, Li Mazi''s life would lose all meaning.


    He was sure that everything that had happened was the doing of that embroidered shoe. As such, Li Mazi, whod been reselling antiques for many years, started suspecting that it might be one of those rumored ''otherworldly items''. So, he quickly removed the shoe from his son''s foot.


    His son instantly woke up, and just like thest time, he had no memory of what had happened.


    Li Mazi was terrified, and after consoling his son, he rushed to my ce with the embroidered shoe.


    As long as someone lived in this street filled with antique shops, they were aware that only our shop would deal with these kinds of unlucky items.


    After hearing Li Mazi''s story, I shivered inwardly.


    Whenever Id seen my father collecting otherworldly items in the past, something like this had never happened! The vast majority of these items would merely cause minor trouble in the master''s house and misce things. To subdue them, one would only need a small trick.


    And yet, the item Li Mazi was talking about sounded like a rather dangerous one.


    I was somewhat overwhelmed. I didn''t expect that the first otherworldly item Ide across would be this troublesome.


    People in this line of business had three kinds of items they would not ept: items that could endanger one''s life, items that could affect one''s fate, and items that could absorb one''s blood and essence. This was one of the basic rules, and also a way to ensure our safety.


    Therefore, to avoid breaking the rules of the profession, it was best to determine how dangerous the otherworldly item was before collecting it.


    Li Mazi gave a nod of understanding.


    I smeared some quicklime on my hands, a trick to prevent bad luck from affecting you.


    After opening the ck wrapping, a drenched embroidered shoe appeared before my eyes.


    One couldn''t help but admit that the design on the embroidered shoe was exquisite and that the needlework was meticulous. The red design wasn''t ruined even after so many years. On the contrary, it looked more vivid after getting soaked in water. Under themplight, it had a blood-red color.


    I furrowed my brow and looked at Li Mazi, asking, "Why is there only one shoe? Wheres the other?"


    Li Mazi replied, "There was only one!"


    I gasped, and then quickly wrapped up the shoe again. "Take it away. It seems that someone wants to harm you. I can''t help!"


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuan_Shikai


    2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wu_Zixu


    3. Also known as orchid fingers, a gesture used in Chinese opera.

 Chapter 2: The Evil Spirit of the Water Well

    Chapter 2: The Evil Spirit of the Water Well


    After hearing those words, Li Mazi''s face turned pale. "Little Brother Zhang, wait a moment! I know that since your grandfather''s generation, your family has been dealing with cursed items that others don''t want to touch. As such, can''t I just leave the shoe with you? You have to give me a hand here! You know how much I care about my son!"


    I smiled sarcastically and said, "You should also be aware of it, shouldn''t you? Even if it were a normal antique, one would feel rather annoyed if the pair were separated, not to mention this pair of embroidered shoes! I can''t help you unless we can find the other shoe."


    Li Mazi was sweating profusely. "But, that family told me that they had only this shoe..."


    I said, "That doesn''t make any sense. If that family didn''t have both shoes, howe their ce wasn''t haunted?"


    After hearing my words, Li Mazi got down on his knees. "Little Brother Zhang, please stop scaring me! Haunted? This is just a mischievous shoe. What does this whole thing have to do with ghosts?"


    I realized that my words had been a little too extreme.


    After all, people in our line of business didn''t believe in ghosts and supernatural beings. What had happened in Li Mazi''s house was just the doings of an otherworldly item.


    The mental energy of the original owner of the shoes being too strong, alongside the help of the surrounding environment, had turned the pair of embroidered shoes into an otherworldly item. I quickly exined to Li Mazi how things stood, and hisplexion finally changed for the better.


    Then, he asked me, "What can I do now?"


    I told him, "I can help you, but in return, youll have to give me the shoes for free."


    It was my first time doing business, and it was rtively better not to decline this offer. Moreover, it would be a great help to my future dealings if I were to sessfully deal with this matter now.


    Li Mazi nodded repeatedly. "I can give you my whole shop, let alone the shoes!"


    Now, it was time for me to determine how dangerous this shoe was.


    I was unable to reach a conclusion just by relying on Li Mazi''s story.


    Therefore, I told him to wait for me and that I would make a trip to his ce tomorrow evening. At that time, two big men would sit in the living room and stay awake all night. Let''s see if the embroidered shoe was still going to cause trouble!


    Children had weak vitality, and it was rather easy for otherworldly items to affect their minds. On the other hand, affecting an adult in the prime of their life was very difficult. This was why it was easy for children to see ghosts while adults wouldnt see them for a lifetime, if they were lucky.


    Li Mazi weakly asked me, "Can I temporarily leave the shoe behind?"


    I immediately refused because I was also scared.


    After that, I was on tenterhooks for the whole day. Whenever I closed my eyes, I would think of the embroidered shoe.


    It was my first time dealing with something like this, and it was reasonable to be anxious. I could tell at a nce that it was a fearsome otherworldly item, but I wasn''t sure about the degree of its wickedness.


    Ah~ People always fear the unknown.


    I recalled my father and grandfather. Every time they talked about their encounters with otherworldly items in their younger days, they would be filled with emotion. Therefore, one could imagine how incredible these items were.


    I wasn''t really in the mood to do business. As such, I shut the door and closed the shop for the rest of the day. I smoked two packets of cigarettes and remembered everything my father had taught me, thinking up various ways to deal with the situation I would soon have to face.


    Even if I believed the n I had devised was surefire, I still felt uneasy.


    The next day, after waiting until 8 PM, I arrived in front of Li Mazi''s main gate.


    Li Mazi had been patiently waiting for me. After seeing me, he was overjoyed, as though hed seen his father.


    I didn''t have the time to exchange pleasantries with Li Mazi. As such, I told him to show me around the house so that I could familiarize myself with the ce. That way, we would be able to adapt to the circumstances in case something unexpected happened. If it still didn''t work, we could always flee for our lives.


    Li Mazi lived in a single-story house.


    Outside the house, there was arge iron gate, a small courtyard, and a well.


    Inside the house, there were two rooms and the living room. Due to theck of a woman, the furniture was dpidated, and the air was filled with a strange smell.


    I looked around and didn''t find anything unusual.


    Then, I told Li Mazi to bring me to where hed ced the embroidered shoe.


    Li Mazi had ced the embroidered shoe, as well as several other antiques hed collected, into a remote and hidden corner of the living room.


    Perhaps it was just my imagination, but when I looked at the embroidered shoe, I felt ufortable. As for why I felt ufortable, I wasn''t sure myself.


    After I finished inspecting the ce, Li Mazi asked me, "Did you discover anything unusual?"


    I shook my head and said, "No, I haven''t."


    Li Mazi was somewhat disappointed, but he didn''t speak further.


    Anyway, since the embroidered shoe had been targeting Li Mazi''s son, I decided to tie him up to prevent him froming into contact with the shoe.


    As for Li Mazi and myself, we decided to stay awake the whole night and see if the shoe was going to create any trouble.


    Everything went well before midnight. I yed on theputer while Li Mazi watched TV. As for his son, hed already fallen asleep. After all, hed been tossed about quite a bit during the past few days.


    After midnight, my eyelids started to be heavy, and I felt really sleepy.


    I ended up smoking the whole pack of Yuxi cigarettes Id brought with me, and since I couldn''t find anything else to reinvigorate my mind and body, I told Li Mazi to stand on guard for now. I was going to take a short nap and then take his ce.


    Li Mazi didnt dare to let his guard down, and he frequently turned his head to look at his son. This made me feel relieved. As long as Li Mazi didn''t fall asleep, everything would be fine.


    After sleeping for a bit, I was awoken by the sound of running water. I immediately opened my eyes, and the first thing I saw was Li Mazi''s son.


    Luckily, the boy was peacefully lying on the bed. He was deeply asleep, and the light sounds of snoring could be heard.


    I rxed and sluggishly turned on theputer, getting ready to y some games.


    However, the sound of running water was stilling from the courtyard.


    I was puzzled and asked Li Mazi, "Whats happening? Did a water pipe outside break?"


    However, Li Mazi didn''t reply.


    I asked once more, but again, no one replied.


    Due to this, I turned my head around and looked in his direction. In the next moment, I got a fright... because Li Mazi had disappeared!


    Other than that, the sofa where hed been sitting was soaked with water.


    This was a bad sign! All my sleepiness was blown away by the shock. At this time, the only thought on my mind was: Where had Li Mazi gone?


    I immediately looked around the room, but I was unable to find any trace of Li Mazi.


    Right, the embroidered shoe!


    But, when I reached the corner of the living room where the embroidered shoe was ced, I made another scary discovery. The embroidered shoe had likewise disappeared.


    My brain was a mess, and I got goosebumps all over my body. Something had definitely happened to Li Mazi!


    I quickly took out my mobile phone and gave him a call.


    However, right at this time, the sound of footsteps echoed in the living room. I turned around and almost bumped into Li Mazi. The guy had stealthily arrived behind me and was staring at me absent-mindedly. He wasnt moving in the slightest.


    After he gave me a scare, I shouted, "Li Mazi, what the hell are you doing?!"


    However, Li Mazi didn''t pay me any attention. He stared at me for a while and then opened the door, heading outside.


    I ignored the goosebumps on my body and quickly followed after him.


    It was very dark outside, and cold moonlight shrouded the small courtyard, making it even eerier and scarier.


    Although I was afraid, I knew that it was toote to go back. Therefore, I braced myself and went to look for Li Mazi.


    At this time, I noticed that Li Mazi was holding a pair of scissors in his hand and had several towels on his shoulder. The scissors reflected the moonlight and illuminated half of his face.


    My heart was crazily beating as I thought: Is Li Mazi trying tomit suicide due to the influence of the embroidered shoe?


    But, why bring so many towels along if he just wanted tomit suicide?


    Li Mazi reached the edge of the well and stopped. As for me, I was ten or so meters away, and crossing that short distance caused my whole body to be drenched in sweat. I was gasping for breath and felt as though Id just walked for an eternity.


    A few birds resting on the branches of a nearby big tree abruptly pped their wings and flew away, scaring me further.


    Ah~ Birds suddenly flying away wasn''t a good omen!


    I stared at Li Mazi without blinking. I knew that hed been affected by the embroidered shoe. As such, I didn''t recklessly disturb him.


    To resolve Li Mazi''s problem, I first had to know the background of this embroidered shoe!

 Chapter 3: Mother-Child Flesh Mark

    Chapter 3: Mother-Child Flesh Mark


    Li Mazi skillfully fetched a bucket of water from the ancient well. What made me curious was... what was he trying to do by fetching water in the middle of the night?


    Next, he poured the water into a big pot and added some firewood so that he could light a fire.


    Although his actions seemed somewhat unnatural, one could tell that he was very familiar with them. Nevertheless, I couldn''t make any sense of what he was trying to achieve.


    Then, he started to loudly cry while facing the well. After he was finished crying, he abruptlyughed. The scene was as scary as one could imagine.


    I took a deep breath and decided to wake Li Mazi up to put an end to this matter.


    But, just as I got closer, Li Mazi held his belly and started to painfully roll on the ground.


    His expression was one of agony, as though he was experiencing some excruciating pain. The strangest thing was that his mouth was wide open like he was screaming, but no sound came out of his throat.


    Li Mazi''s actions gave me a scare, and I subconsciously retreated two steps.


    Li Mazi rolled in pain under the moonlight. Then, after some time, he resisted the pain and got up. He soaked the towel in hot water, covered the crotch of his pants, and started to rub it gently.


    He was exerting all his strength and concentrating his efforts on the lower part of his body. After going on for quite a while, his whole body suddenly rxed. Hey on the ground and gasped for breath as though hed finished some strenuous exercise.


    In the meantime, I was shocked... because Id finally figured out what Li Mazi had been trying to do earlierhe was giving birth!


    There was no mistaking it. All the actions just now were the actions a pregnant woman would perform during childbirth.


    Now that the delivery wasplete, Li Mazi naturallyy on the ground, exhausted.


    At this time, I had a sudden realization. I had an idea as to what that embroidered shoe might be...


    Was this the rumored ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''?


    Since Id discovered the origin of the embroidered shoe, there was no need to make Li Mazi go through all this suffering. At this time, hed already taken out that pair of scissors, ready to cut his ''umbilical cord''.


    I rapidly ran back to the room, grabbed all the vegetable oil in Li Mazi''s home, and poured it on his head and the embroidered shoe.


    In the past, my grandfather had told me that what gave birth to the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark'' was the resentment of a pregnant woman. The hate a nine-month-pregnant woman would feel if she were to die during the delivery was very difficult to dispel. Very often, this hate and resentment would permeate the clothing that the victim was wearing back then.


    This clothing contaminated with resentment then took the name of ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''.


    All those that came in contact with the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark'' would get affected by a strange form of somnambulism, and start to perform all the actions the pregnant woman had performed before her death. For example, washing the dishes, doing theundry, giving birth to a child, and so on.


    Although it wouldn''t directly endanger a person''s life, it might cause them to go crazy.


    It wasn''t difficult to deal with the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''. What it feared the most was oil, and as long as one sprinkled some of it on the person affected by somnambulism, they would immediately wake up.


    Sure enough, Li Mazi immediately returned to his senses when I poured the oil on his head. He wailed and got up from the ground, scrambling away from the well.


    I quickly chased after him and stopped him. "Li Mazi, calm down. Everything is fine!"


    Only after Id reassured him did he calm down a little. He grabbed my arm and said, "Little Brother Zhang, you surely know how to deal with this shoe, right? Shit, just now, I really felt as though I was a pregnant woman giving birth to a child..."


    I solemnly said to Li Mazi, "Li Mazi, listen to me. This thing you chanced upon is called a ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark'', and it''s a rather sinister otherworldly item. I don''t haveplete assurance of dealing with it just yet. Anyway, I need you to get me some breast milk and olive oil. I don''t need much, just 30 ml and 50 ml of each is enough. Now, go. Otherwise, it might be toote."


    After hearing my words, Li Mazi was dumbfounded. "I can buy olive oil at the supermarket, but where am I supposed to get breast milk? It''s not like I can milk it out."


    I was nervous already, and Li Mazi still had the time to make jokes. I got angry and told him, "If you don''t know where to find those things, don''t bother, and I won''t be bothering to deal with this matter, either."


    Then, I reminded him that if he couldn''t find what Id requested within half an hour, not even if my grandfather were toe would we be able to save the situation.


    After seeing my expression, Li Mazi also understood that the situation was serious. Therefore, he didn''t waste time and immediately rushed out.


    At the same time, I hurried back into the room. Li Mazi''s son was already awake at this time, and he looked at me with eyes full of fear.


    I swiftly untied the rope binding his body and said, "Go to a heavily popted area and don''t return home tonight. If you don''t see your father or me tomorrow, don''te looking for us. We''lle back on our own."


    Li Mazi''s son was also aware of the strange events that had taken ce in the past few days. After seeing my serious expression, he was frightened and repeatedly nodded his head.


    After seeing off Li Mazi''s son, I didn''t waste time and searched for another barrel of vegetable oil in the room. I cut a hole into it and threw the embroidered shoe inside.


    I carefully observed the shoe and discovered that the red color above gradually faded. At the same time, the yellow-colored vegetable oil gradually became blood-red.


    I gasped. If this shoe was really the so-called ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark'', I wasn''t sure I could get rid of it.


    I kept observing the embroidered shoe. The shoe was currently immersed in the cooking oil, not moving in the slightest. The surrounding quietness was almost scary, and even the sound of my heartbeat was audible.


    Ten minutes... twenty minutes... twenty-five minutes... time passed by, but I still didn''t hear Li Mazi''s voice from the courtyard.


    I was currently burning with impatience. Keeping things under control for around half an hour wasn''t difficult, but it was unknown if the oil container could keep the embroidered shoe suppressed after this half an hour was over!


    I inwardly cursed Li Mazi''s eighteen generations. The remaining time quickly flew by, and in thest three minutes, Li Mazi finally returned. He was gasping for breath as he barged into the house, handing me a bottle of olive oil and another one of milk. "Fuck, I''m dead tired. I made it in time, right?"


    I didn''t have the time to manage Li Mazi. I directly poured the olive oil and breast milk into a washbowl. After mixing them up, I soaked the embroidered shoe in the liquid.


    Speaking of strange things, as soon as I ced the embroidered shoe in the washbowl, the liquid inside started boiling.


    The embroidered shoe moved up and down in the liquid, without sinking.


    After seeing the scene, Li Mazi was dumbfounded. "This... just what is happening?"


    My palms were sweating, and I didn''t dare to look away from the washbowl.


    Only when the liquid stopped boilingand the embroidered shoe sankwas I able to heave a sigh of relief. I squatted down and wiped the sweat off my forehead. "Sess."


    Li Mazi also heaved a sigh of relief. "Good, good."


    "Good your sister." I red at Li Mazi. "This method can only suppress it for a limited amount of time; it can''t suppress it forever! After 10-15 days, this embroidered shoe will start causing trouble again. At that time, you won''t get rid of it even if you move house."


    Li Mazi was dumbfounded and asked, "What should we do next?"


    I took a deep breath and said, "First, we have to make sure that what were dealing with is indeed the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''!"

 Chapter 4: Strange Happenings in the Old Village

    Chapter 4: Strange Happenings in the Old Vige


    I grabbed some breast milk and sprinkled it in the corner where Li Mazi used to put the embroidered shoe.


    Very soon, faint water stains started to appear on the originally clean surface.


    Atst, the water stains took the shape of two footprints, one big and one small. The two adjacent footprints were now very clear.


    Li Mazi was scared shitless as he asked me, "What''s going on?"


    I replied, my expression gloomy, "The big footprint belongs to the mother, and the smaller one to the child she just delivered..."


    Li Mazi was dumbstruck. "Where did this childe from?"


    "Did you forget that you just gave birth?"


    Li Mazi''s face twitched. He obviously remembered what had happened just now.


    Then, I quickly exined to Li Mazi what the Mother-Child Flesh Mark was. The so-called ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark'' was the clothing the pregnant woman had worn at the time of her tragic death.


    Due to their maternal love being at its peak during pregnancy, these women were very unwilling to ept their sudden and tragic death. As such, the strong resentment they felt would contaminate the clothes they were wearing.


    Pregnant women were afraid of consuming olive oil because they thought it would induce a miscarriage. As for breast milk, it made them feel jealous. Therefore, it was possible to use these two things to temporarily suppress the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''. However, it wouldn''t keep it suppressed for long.


    The perfect solution would be to find the other shoe and reunite the pair.


    Li Mazi grabbed his hair and shouted angrily, "Little Brother Zhang, pleasee with me! I have to look for that family that sold me the shoe and settle this ount! They almost killed me!"


    I stopped Li Mazi and told him not to act rashly. If he ended up annoying that family, they definitely wouldn''t give him the other shoe.


    Li Mazi clenched his teeth and had no choice but toply.


    Going today was a no-go. I could tell from Li Mazi''s expression that he still wished to skin the other party alive.


    As such, I tried tofort him by telling him that the other party was unlikely to know the inside story of the shoe and only sold it for some quick money. Before proceeding, I had to let Li Mazi calm down.


    I barely slept that night, and only when the sun started rising was I able to fall asleep.


    But, I hadn''t slept for long before I was startled awake by a knock on the door.


    Li Mazi''s son had returned, and after seeing that we were both fine, he cheerfully jumped around.


    Li Mazi spoke gravely and told the boy that he would leave home for the next two days to settle a certain matter. He advised him to stay at school as much as possible and never stay at home alone.


    Li Mazi''s son was very obedient, and he immediately nodded his head in agreement.


    Thereafter, Li Mazi and I got in the car and headed toward his hometown.


    Li Mazi''s hometown was in Kaifeng County, Henan Province. Just like most of China''s countryside, the ce was messy and run-down, and not even the main road was in good condition.


    In the end, the bad infrastructure had ended up facilitating the business of antiques in this ce.


    I couldn''t help but admire Li Mazi. Hed truly chosen a good ce to buy antiques at dirt-cheap prices.


    Anyway, it had just rained in this ce, and the ground was like mire. The vehicle couldn''t pass through, and we had no choice but to park it at the entrance of the vige and proceed on foot.


    When we passed by a dpidated old house, Li Mazi finally spoke.


    However, we both despaired when we nced at the house. The main gate was shut tight, and we could see the courtyard full of weeds through the cracks, as well as the scattered kitchenware.


    Needless to say, that family had abandoned the ce.


    The anger Li Mazi had been suppressing finally erupted. He kicked the door open and shouted curses while standing on the threshold.


    After Li Mazi had cursed for a while, an uncle came out of the house next door. He cast a casual nce in Li Mazi''s direction, his expression one of unhappiness.


    I hastily moved forward and asked the uncle, "Uncle, howe this family ran away?"


    Ill-humored, the uncle said, "What could they do besides running away? Their family was haunted, and they might have died without heirs if they hadn''t run away."


    I was startled. I knew that there was definitely something fishy about this matter. I took out my pack of Yuxi cigarettes and stuffed it in the hand of the uncle. His expression finally softened, and he summed up what had happened.


    It turned out that that family moved here from a neighboring vige a few years ago. But, since moving here, their life hadn''t been too peaceful. Their child would often cry at night, and they would always hear the sound of footstepsing from the courtyard.


    Over the years, thedy of the house became pregnant three times, but she would always have a miscarriage for the most diverse reasons.


    Then, when they gave away that embroidered shoe of the Qing Dynasty, things became even worse!


    The members of the family would often see a woman with disheveled hair sitting on the edge of the well in the middle of the night. But, as soon as they approached her, the woman would jump inside the well. However, they would find nothing when illuminating the interior of the well with a shlight.


    During cloudy days, they would even hear the sobbing voice of a womaning from the well, frightening them out of their wits.


    However, this wasn''t everything. The real reason they moved to a different ce was that their child would often, consciously or unconsciously, stand on the edge of the well, looking at it in a daze.


    Since they were worried that the child would jump inside the well, they decided to move.


    After hearing this story, my scalp went numb, and I broke out in a cold sweat. This was very simr to what was happening in Li Mazi''s house.


    Nheless, after calming down and reorganizing my thoughts, I felt somewhat relieved. This was without a doubt the other embroidered shoe causing trouble, and it seemed that it was in the hands of this family.


    The only problem was that we didn''t know if theyd taken the shoe with them when theyd left...


    Thereon, I decided to look for the other embroidered shoe tonight, in the hopes of letting the pair of shoes reunite.


    After making up my mind, I told Li Mazi about my n. Li Mazi was somewhat scared after hearing my words. "Won''t it be dangerous?"


    I replied, "It''s not that big of a deal, and you should help me prepare a few things thatlle in handy this evening."


    My n was simple. Since the two embroidered shoes wanted to reunite, the shoe in our hands would definitely go looking for the other one as soon as night fell. At that time, it was bound to leave some ''footprints'' in the courtyard.


    Li Mazi and I only had to follow the footprints to find the other shoe. As easy as falling off a log.


    Afterward, I gave Li Mazi a list of things that he had to buy before nightfall.


    As for me, I went to persuade the uncle next door because the n was to stay at his ce that night.


    Money could buy the devil himself. Under the enticement of money, the uncle readily epted my request.


    Li Mazi returned after around half an hourter carrying a big bundle of willow tree branches on his shoulder, and a big cloth-wrapper in his hand. Inside the cloth was something I had requestedkettle soot.


    Li Mazi and I evenly scattered the kettle soot in the courtyard. Then, we spread out the willow tree branches above the scattered soot.


    Li Mazi asked, "Why are we doing this?"


    I exined, "The kettle soot will cause the embroidered shoe to leave some footprints behind. As for why were paving a ''flight of steps'' with these willow tree branches... its to tell the other party that they can freely step on it."


    Li Mazi said in amazement, "Little Brother Zhang, I didn''t know that you had such incredible abilities!"


    Iughed and said, "What ability? This is just the experience that other people in this business left behind. I''m just a rookie. If theres an opportunity, I''ll let you experience my grandfather''s method."


    Next, we took the embroidered shoe and cautiously ced it at the entrance of the courtyard. Afterpleting the above-mentioned steps, we rushed to the house of the neighboring uncle and pricked up our ears, carefully listening to the movements in the nearby courtyard.

 Chapter 5: The Two Shoes Returning Where They Belong

    Chapter 5: The Two Shoes Returning Where They Belong


    There was no particr entertainment in the vige. Therefore, the ce turned quiet very early. It was so quiet that even the sound of a pin dropping to the ground could be heard.


    Li Mazi was truly scared at this time. After squatting in a corner for not even half an hour, he was sweating, red in the face, and his hands were trembling.


    "Little Brother Zhang, we aren''t in danger, right? How sure are you that you can take care of that thing? Tell me in detail, or I won''t be at ease!"


    Actually, I was even more anxious than Li Mazi. If this method didn''t work, Id exhausted all the tricks up my sleeve. As if that wasn''t enough, the embroidered shoe would very likely target me as well.


    However, I had to keep my calm in front of Li Mazi. Therefore, I said calmly, "I have a 90% assurance I can deal with it."


    The old, broken clock in the living room emitted a ticking sound as the seconds passed by. Hearing this sound gave me a sense of weakness.


    Time was passing by too slowly! Only one hour had passed until now, and Id already shivered three times due to fear.


    As if that wasn''t enough, the vige was incredibly dark. There were no street lights, and even the moon was half-covered by the dark clouds in the sky. After recalling that only this wall was separating us from that fearsome embroidered shoe, my heart couldnt help but beat wildly.


    The courtyard next door was extremely quiet, and if one thought about it, it didn''t make much sense!


    It made no sense that a dpidated house in the countryside wasn''t infested with mice or snakes.


    After thinking about it for a while, I concluded that it was very likely due to that shoe.


    After all, the embroidered shoe was too fearsome, and nocturnal creatures such as mice and snakes were extremely good at sensing danger...


    Just as the sound of the midnight bell echoed, my whole body tensed up. If everything went ording to the n, the embroidered shoe on the other side should now take action.


    Sure enough, something indeed happened on the other side.


    A light burst of wind blew in the neighboring courtyard, apanied by the sound of piled up wooden stools falling.


    Li Mazi tumbled down on my body and started twitching, and I couldn''t help but curse him inwardly.


    The light wind soon stopped, but the dust in the courtyard was now flying about haphazardly. Even our bodies had been covered, which made us inhale kettle soot with each breath. It was absolutely disgusting.


    I tried my best to stop myself from sneezing.


    Thump, thump, thump!


    The sound of footsteps gradually echoed in the courtyard.


    The sound was initially unclear, but as the footsteps approached, we could hear it distinctly.


    It felt as though a cripple was walking back and forth in the courtyard.


    I tried not to indulge in flights of fancy... but the picture of a woman in white clothes, hair disheveled, looking everywhere in the courtyard for a shoe still resurfaced in my mind.


    Then, just as the sound of footsteps was gradually approaching, it stopped. Li Mazi started to get restless again, and my heart and thoughts were also running wild.


    Had we been discovered?


    Li Mazi subconsciously raised his head and looked at the top of the wall, which made me feel anxious as well. I began to imagine a long-haired woman climbing up the wall and then gazing down at us.


    Just as my imagination was running wild, a bubbling sound was emitted from the ancient well, just like the sound of boiling water.


    The sound was very loud, and it was especially resounding in the quiet night.


    Moreover, I could faintly hear the desperate cry of a womaning from the bottom of the well.


    The sound of footsteps echoed again. This time, the footsteps quickly headed toward the edge of well.


    Afterward, a huge ssh was heard, and the seething water of the well also calmed down. The entire world became silent again.


    Even though half an hour had passed, there was still no sound.


    I wiped the sweat off my forehead and said, "Sess."


    Li Mazi was so scared that his whole body was convulsing. After hearing my words, he heaved a long sigh of relief. "Little Brother Zhang, help me rub my legs. Theyre spasming nonstop..."


    I lent Li Mazi my shoulder and brought him back into the room. Wed managed to get through a difficult night.


    The sky started to brighten, and we rushed into the nearby courtyard.


    As we opened the door, Li Mazi and I got goosebumps.


    The willow tree branches were still fine, but the kettle soot had been blown away, and two footprints of kettle soot, onerge and one small, filled the whole courtyard.


    The embroidered shoe I had ced at the entrance yesterday had also moved to the edge of the well.


    I knew that the other embroidered shoe was definitely inside the well.


    But, how would we get it out?


    Luckily, Li Mazi was an experienced man, and he found someone in the vige who specialized in dealing with wells. The man used an iron hook to randomly grab at the things in the well.


    At first, he grabbed out misceneous stuff, waterweeds, garbage, and so on.


    But, before long, the iron hook finally hooked onto something heavy. The specialist used all his strength, yet he was still unable to pull it up.


    Only when Li Mazi and I also stepped forward to help him were we able to slowly pull that thing up.


    When we pulled that thing up, everyone was dumbfounded.


    It was unexpectedly a broken cupboard!


    The style of the cupboard looked ancient, and the red paint on the surface had already rotted away.


    Its doors were tightly shut. As such, I looked for a steel bar to pry them open.


    After the doors were open, the steel bar in my hands fell to the ground with a bang. The nearby Li Mazi also screamed in horror and stumbled away.


    A snow-white skeleton was stuffed into the cupboard. The coarse clothing on its body hadn''tpletely rotted yet, and one could make out that it was a set of clothes from the Qing Dynasty.


    Moreover, a blood-red embroidered shoe was worn on the foot of the skeleton.


    Although the rest of the clothes had deteriorated, this blood-red embroidered shoe was the same as new.


    I carefully observed the abdominal region of the skeleton and noticed that there was another small skeleton in its abdomen.


    Needless to say, this woman was pregnant when shed died.


    All these signs pointed to the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''.


    The next-door uncle sighed and squatted on one side. Then, he lit a cigarette and started to smoke.


    I understood that the uncle knew something about this embroidered shoe. Therefore, I squatted beside him and asked him to tell me about it.


    The uncle didn''t seem too willing to talk about this matter. So, he kept it short. "A wealthy family lived here during the Qing Dynasty. The young master of the family was a womanizer, and he ended up getting one of the maidservants pregnant. The maidservant was unwilling to have an induced abortion. As such, the young master stuffed her into the cupboard and threw her to the bottom of the well. Those embroidered shoes were the only thing that the young master had ever given to the maidservant, and she really liked them..."


    After saying this much, the uncle stood up and said, "I''ll talk with the vige head. Tomorrow, we''ll collect some money from everyone in the vige and buy her a coffin so that we can bury her."


    Then, while no one was watching, I quietly took the embroidered shoe off the foot of the skeleton.


    ording to my original agreement with Li Mazi, both the shoes would be returned to me.


    Li Mazi was good at handling people, and some time after we got back, he came over to my ce and brought several gifts to thank me.


    He passed the evening at my ce and drank quite a lot. Then, he asked casually, "Brother, why do you ept these items that others consider unlucky? How much can you even sell that pair of broken shoes for?"


    I said, "Not much, but if you meet someone that knows the business, even several hundred thousand renminbi."


    Li Mazi immediately spurted out the wine he was drinking. I felt that even his intestines had turned green from regret.


    However, he didn''t ask me for a percentage of the profit. Apparently, he still wanted to keep some dignity.


    Instead, he asked if we could divide the money 50-50 if he managed to find me another otherworldly item.


    Otherworldly items were very difficult to find. Therefore, I immediately agreed.


    Later, I spread in the circle the news rted to the Mother-Child Flesh Mark.


    After a few days, a man with a beer-belly that talked like a bureaucrat came to my shop. After exchanging simple greetings, he asked if I could show him the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''.


    Although the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark'' was an unlucky item, it could allow one to have a very sessful career if ced in the house in pairs.


    The other party was someone from the government, so I tried to be as polite as possible as I showed him the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''.


    That man with the beer-belly was rather easy-going, and he only asked if there were any side effects.


    After I assured him that there would be none, he used 800,000 renminbi[1] to buy the ''Mother-Child Flesh Mark''.


    People working in the antique business might not do business for three years, and then suddenly make enough money tost for three years.


    Then, as for people like me who were in the otherworldly item business, we might not do business for ten years, and then suddenly make enough money tost for ten years!


    1. Around 112,000 USD.

 Chapter 6: The Deadly Blue and White Porcelain

    Chapter 6: The Deadly Blue and White Porcin


    I had basically picked up these 800,000 renminbi for free, but I was still very happy.


    The first thing I did after getting a hold of the money was to fix the antique shop. Id already decided that I would rely on this profession to make a living in the future.


    But, just by fixing the shop, I spent almost half of what Id earned. As for the remaining 400,000 renminbi, I put them in the bank. People in this line of business would make a lot of money, but at irregr intervals. Therefore, it was always better to have some cash at hand.


    For the next month, I wasn''t able to do any business, which caused me to be somewhat irascible. After all, sitting all day in the shop and doing nothing was rather irritating.


    Still, I hadn''t expected that it would again be Li Mazi who brought me my second deal...


    Li Mazi was in a good mood that day, and he brought over a lot of stuff when he came to visit me. Judging from his glowing face and confident tone, it seemed hede because he had good news.


    Li Mazi was different from me. He could leave the shop to his assistant and head to the remote countryside to buy and sell antiques. Moreover, hed been in the business for a long time and had broad connections. He was much more experienced than I.


    Therefore, when Li Mazi suggested forming a partnership, I benefited a lot.


    Li Mazi held a bottle of ''China Blue'' worth 300 renminbi[1] in his hand, while I grabbed some beef and started eating.


    I asked Li Mazi, "Do you have a job for me?"


    Li Mazi grinned and said, "Little Brother Zhang, I got a big one this time. Thest time, you sold those damned embroidered shoes for 800,000 renminbi, but I get the feeling that we''ll make more than one million this time."


    My interest was piqued, and I asked Li Mazi the details.


    Li Mazi drank a mouthful of wine and started with his exnation. After seeing me make 800,000 renminbi thest time, he didn''t feel like selling antiques anymore. Although the antique business was a lucrative one, the controls were very strict nowadays, and it had be increasingly difficult to do business. Moreover, he was the one that had discovered the embroidered shoes, and he wanted to earn back the money that hed missed back then.


    Li Mazi was someone whod traveled far and wide over the years, and hed also heard about some antiques causing trouble. So, after getting home, he started to carefully recall all the strange things hed heard over time. Afterward, he sifted through the rumors and checked each household to see which ones were still in trouble.


    Of course, it wasnt so easy to find otherworldly items. Most of the rumors were fabricated and didn''t have any real basis.


    Nevertheless, Li Mazi was a patient man, and his determination allowed him to find a clue amidst those hundreds of rumors!


    There was a well-known story back in his native ce.


    Towards the end of the Qing Dynasty, a wealthy family lived in his hometown. The leader of the family spent a great deal of effort to send his daughter to the Imperial Pce, making her Emperor Pu Yi''s concubine.


    After the fall of the Qing Dynasty, an old court eunuch apanied the concubine back to her native ce. As she came back, she brought along a carriage filled with the treasures of the Imperial Pce.


    However, the happiness of the family didn''tst long, and soon after, the country was shrouded in the mes of war once again. Amidst the chaos, almost all of the treasures in the family were stolen, and only a strange set of blue and white porcin was left behind.


    Now, the only person left in the huge family was a sluggard.


    This guy didn''t even bother removing the grass growing in the fields, and bought ready-made stuff all year round. In the end, the family was thoroughly ruined in his hands.


    But, one day, a peddler heard that there was a treasure in the family of this sluggard, and he headed there to buy it. As soon as the sluggard heard that he could sell the strange blue and white porcin in his house for 2000 renminbi[2], he happily epted.


    However, strange things started happening soon after he sold the porcin. Whenever he got up in the morning, he would be dripping with blood. Bloody wounds were all over his body as though someone had deeply scratched him with their fingernails.


    The scariest thing was that he didn''t feel any pain even though he had all those wounds on his body.


    At first, the sluggard thought that someone was ying pranks on him. Therefore, he tightly shut the doors and windows, and even tied a strand of hair to every entrance and exit. If someone barged in, the strand of hair would break, and he would know it.


    However, the sluggard hadn''t expected that there would be an even higher number of wounds on his body the next morning. There were five bloody cuts on his back, so deep that even the flesh was visible.


    As for the strands of hair hed tied to every entrance and exit, they were perfectly intact. It seemed like no one had barged into his room.


    The sluggard was dumbfounded, and he quickly realized that this was the doing of the blue and white porcin.


    His ancestors had said that the blue and white porcin was a treasured family heirloom that had to be protected at all costs. Otherwise, a cmity would befall him.


    Even if the sluggard were greedy, he couldn''t help but be cautious when his safety was involved!


    Luckily, the person that had taken the porcin away was a local rtive. As such, the sluggard used both hard and soft tactics to deal with them. Whenever he was free, he would stand at the entrance of their ce and cuss, giving inauspicious speeches. In the end, the opposite party couldn''t bear it anymore and gave him back his family heirloom.


    Speaking of which, the sluggard didn''t encounter anything simr after recovering the porcin.


    To increase the credibility of this story, Li Mazi repeatedly told me that this strange incident had spread far and wide back then. All the nearby viges got wind of it, and a newspaper even went there for an interview.


    Li Mazi had unconsciously recalled this matter thest time. After that, hed made a trip to that sluggard''s house, and luckily for him, the trip wasn''t in vain. He found out that the sluggard was once again experiencing strange things!


    Every day, he would be too afraid of sleeping because he would wake up covered in blood the next morning.


    But, after the lesson hed learned thest time, the sluggard had carefully safeguarded the blue and white porcin. It was unknown how hed exactly offended it this time.


    Li Mazi concluded that the blue and white porcin might be an otherworldly item. Therefore, he told the sluggard that he would look for a specialist to solve this matter.


    Li Mazi had a shop there, and he was a well-respected character in the vige. So, it took him only a sentence to gain the trust of the sluggard.


    After hearing the story, I was startled. Then, I said," Li Mazi, Li Mazi! Aren''t you being too much of a good samaritan here? You almost lost your lifest time, and yet, you still decided to look for something this dangerous!"


    "The embroidered shoe could only make people sleepwalk and didn''t have the ability to harm them directly. However, this thing can injure them just fine. It must have a very special origin!"


    Li Mazi was taken aback. "Little Brother Zhang, how can that be? Last time, I personally saw how skilled you are!"


    I sighed, and said, "We people in this line of business have three kinds of items we don''t eptitems that can endanger one''s life, items that can affect one''s fate, and items that can absorb one''s blood and essence. As you can see, the object youre talking about already breaks two of the rules! It can endanger one''s life and also absorb one''s blood and essence. I''m sorry, but I won''t be dealing with it."


    Li Mazi pleaded, "Little Brother Zhang, please, you have to take a look at it! I even boasted in front of that guy! You just have to take a quick look at the ce. If it''s something you can deal with, good. If it''s not, we can simply walk away. After all, it''s not like you have anything to do here. You can consider it as going on an adventure."


    I smiled coldly. "We still have another rule in this profession. When ites to dealing with otherworldly items, you can either ignore the item, not bothering with it for a lifetime... or get involved, and have to deal with it for a lifetime."


    "Howe this profession of yours has so many rules? Alright, Little Brother Zhang, I get it. Were both adults, and theres no need to resort to these tricks. Still, the fact that youre treating me like one of your customers really saddens me. Instead of splitting the revenue 50-50, I can give you a 60-40 deal," Li Mazi said.


    "This isn''t about the money."


    "70-30, how does this sound?"


    "Deal."


    "Fuck."


    There was no time to waste. As such, we immediately got into the car and headed toward Li Mazi''s hometown.


    1. Around 42 USD.


    2. Around 180 USD.

 Chapter 7: Blue Head

    Chapter 7: Blue Head


    Li Mazi''s hometown was in Kaifeng County, Henan Province. Since we went there just a short while ago, I more or less knew the road.


    His parents had died long ago, and the only rtive he had there was his second aunt.


    Therefore, when we went over, I made sure to bring along a bag of nutrient food, which moved second aunt''s family to tears. They begged us to stay and have dinner with them, but we politely refused.


    Li Mazi knew that the vige wasn''t in a good condition, and the hygiene was alsocking. While heading over there, we brought quite a lot of fast food, instant noodles, instant rice, and so on.


    After eating in the car, we went directly to the ce of that sluggard.


    At this time, the sun was already setting, and we didn''t have much time left.


    Anyway, that sluggard was someone worthy of his name. He wore tattered clothes, had disheveled hair, and the room was a mess. There wasn''t even enough space to stand.


    But, the most disgusting thing was the stench in the room, which assailed my nostrils and forced me to cover my nose.


    Li Mazi stood in the courtyard and cursed. However, the sluggard onlyughed foolishly and said, "Brother Li, don''t curse. I''ve already gotten used to this smell. If you were to send me to live in a big city, I would also feel out of ce."


    After seeing that Li Mazi wanted to curse some more, I stopped him and said, "Let''s get down to business and take a look at that blue and white porcin first."


    The sluggard had ced the blue and white porcin in the bedroom. We lifted the door curtain and took a look at it.


    On the surface, this blue and white porcin wasn''t much different from an ordinary set of porcin. It had a bluish color, was sparkling, and emitted an ancient aura. It was smooth and shiny, and I could tell at a nce that it was a good piece.


    However, if one looked more carefully, they would discover that there was something strange about this blue and white porcin.


    From childhood all the way to adulthood, Id never heard or seen of such blue and white porcin!


    Protruding square-shaped patterns were present all over the body of this blue and white porcin. The dense patterns covered its body, just like the scales of a snake.


    In addition, its upper part was very thick, while the lower part rather thipletely the opposite of ordinary sets of blue and white porcin.


    How could this thing be described?


    It was like a child with a big head and teeth growing all over the body.


    I took a deep breath, and stench in the room assailed my nostrils, making me cough. Id more or less guessed what the deal with this blue and white porcin was.


    This type of human-shaped blue and white porcin was called ''Blue Head''.


    Generally speaking, there were two reasons that would lead to the creation of such blue and white porcin.


    First reason: It was manufactured with the usage of human organs, bone ashes, and simr things, which would beter mixed to form the raw earthenware and then ced in the kiln to bake. This type of blue and white porcin was used tomemorate the dead, hoping that they would stay in this world forever, just like the porcin.


    Second reason: During the baking process, the body of the porcin would frequently get slightly deformed due to the high temperature. Then, some artisans living in an ''ivory tower'' would seal themselves and the blue and white porcin into an earthen kiln, using thest moments of their lives to perfectly preserve the shape of the porcin.


    Each time an artisan used their body to manufacture a set of blue and white porcin, the resulting product would be of extremely high quality.


    Regardless of the type of blue and white porcin, they would end up absorbing the soul of the deceased during the baking process, turning it into an otherworldly item.


    I stretched out my hand, cing it into the blue and white porcin before gently stroking the internal wall.


    Surely enough, it was different from other types of blue and white porcin. The internal wall wasn''t smooth and felt rough to the touch. The craftsmanship was by no means good. Therefore, I excluded the second possibility. This blue and white porcin was likely made from human ashes.


    After I exined the situation, the sluggard was at first dumbfounded, and then shouted, "How is this possible? Who would be so crazy as to use human ashes to manufacture a set of blue and white porcin?"


    Li Mazi said impatiently, "If he said this is the case, it has to be it. Do you think yourself to be as knowledgeable as him?"


    The sluggard no longer spoke. He only looked at the blue and white porcin with a gaze filled with fear.


    Li Mazi asked, "What should we do this evening?"


    I kept silent for a moment and then walked toward the entrance to smoke, saying calmly, "The most important thing to do right now is to find out how those wounds appeared on his body. As such, were staying overnight..."


    After hearing my words, Li Mazi immediately became nervous. "If you want to stay over, stay by yourself. I would rather sleep in a pigpen than this ce!"


    "Alright," I said with a smile. "In that case, you can forget about seeing even a cent."


    Li Mazi sighed deeply, and then said, "Okay, you win."


    I felt that staying in the same room as the sluggard wasn''t too wise. First, we would likely get discovered by the otherworldly item. Second, it was definitely not worth the effort if we got injured.


    So, after inspecting the house of the sluggard, Li Mazi and I decided to go on the roof and keep an eye on everything happening from there.


    It was somewhat cold there. As such, Li Mazi borrowed two quilts from his second aunt. We wrapped the quilts around our bodies and removed a few tiles from the roof, starting to watch carefully.


    Very soon, the sky darkened.


    The vige was extremely quiet, and the caw of a crow could be heard once in a while, which made us feel very ufortable.


    Then, I took out the onion Id prepared beforehand and squeezed out its juice, sprinkling it on the quilts.


    Li Mazi asked, "What are you doing?"


    "Onion juice can cover up positive life-energy, preventing us from getting discovered," I replied.


    The sluggard was eating steamed buns alongside stringy salted vegetables, seemingly enjoying the meal a lot. From time to time, he would raise his head and look at us, revealing a row of yellow teeth and asking us if we wanted to eat as well.


    Seeing his disgusting appearance really made me feel like throwing up. I was quite confused in my heart... the man was clearly still young. As such, how had he fallen to this point? Even if he went to the city to do odd jobs, his condition would be much better than his current one.


    I really couldn''t understand that person.


    Anyway, forget it. Everyone had their own aspirations, and there was no need for me to manage a sluggard.


    Time passed, and the sluggard finally got in bed, preparing to sleep. When he took off his shoes, he released a deadly smell.


    At this time, I didn''t even dare to blink my eyes in fear of missing any important details.


    However, the sluggard slept very soundly, and he didn''t even toss and turn much during his sleep. Up until one o''clock in the morning, nothing happened.


    Li Mazi yawned repeatedly, and said, "Little Brother Zhang, from the looks of it, nothing is happening tonight. Should we also sleep in the car a little?"


    I said to Li Mazi, "Let''s wait some more. The period between 11 PM and 1 AM just ended, so it''s pretty normal that that thing didn''t cause trouble yet. Actually, negative energy is at its strongest when the sun is about to rise in the morning, with the yang ready to overtake the yin. I feel that that period of time will be the most dangerous..."


    Li Mazi steeled himself and nodded.


    Then, we endured until 3 AM, and the sound of grinding finally echoed in the room.


    I saw that the good-for-nothing Li Mazi had unexpectedly fallen asleep. I quickly pped him awake.


    Just as Li Mazi was about to say something, I covered his mouth and pointed downward, hinting to him that there was something going on in the bedroom.


    When we looked downward, both of us were stunned.


    Without us noticing, the sluggard had gotten up and was staring at us, the upper half of the body naked.


    I was sure that he was definitely looking at us!


    He gnashed his teeth, and his facial features twisted like that of a malicious ghost. The grinding sound just now was caused by his teeth grinding together.


    While we were looking at each other, the corner of the sluggard''s mouth rose, and he revealed a strange smile. Next, he stretched out his hand and grabbed his back.


    In the next moment, five bloody holes appeared on his back!


    After taking another look at his back, we discovered that it was covered in scratches, with most of them still having to heal.


    My heartbeat sped up. The scene in front of me was simply too bloody!


    I felt that I couldn''t sit by and watch, because the sluggard was seemingly suffering from an unbearable itch. He was continually scratching himself, without any signs of stopping.


    Just as I was about to go down and save him, Li Mazi screamed.


    I was startled and hurriedly moved some tiles aside, looking downward. But, what I saw next almost made me fall from the roof!

 Chapter 8: Using a Rooster as a Substitute

    Chapter 8: Using a Rooster as a Substitute


    Never would I have expected that the sluggard would open his mouth and bite his finger, gnawing on it as though he was gnawing on chicken feet. Blood dyed his whole mouth red.


    Heavens, just what kind of otherworldly item was this?!


    Still, I couldn''t really let my thoughts wander. The most important thing to do right now was to save that sluggard. I took out a shlight and barged into the room in a flurry.


    Then, I''m not sure if it was just my imagination, but I saw a ck shadow brush past the window of the sluggard''s house, instantly disappearing into the darkness.


    Suddenly seeing that ck shadow gave me a scare, and I had goosebumps all over my body. As such, I was a little afraid to enter the room. But, after Li Mazi also got there, I gained some courage and we wobbled into the room of the sluggard together.


    The sluggard was lying in bed again, sleeping like a dead pig.


    The middle finger of his right hand was nowhere to be seen, and the red blood had dyed the quilt.


    I cursed inwardly and rushed toward the sluggard, pping him awake. "Quickly, wake up!"


    The sluggard opened his eyes in a daze, and said angrily after hearing my words, "What are you doing? Let me sleep."


    While speaking, he unwittingly spat out the half finger in his mouth. He grabbed the finger and asked in puzzlement, "Whats this thing?"


    Li Mazi said, "Don''t you feel any pain? That''s your finger! You just bit it off."


    The sluggard was at first dumbfounded. Then, he stretched out his hands and carefully looked at them. Atst, he shrieked, "Save me! My finger is gone..."


    Seeing that the sluggard was about to go crazy, Li Mazi and I quickly brought him to the car and headed toward the hospital in town.


    Along the way, I recalled that we forgot to bring along the missing finger of the sluggard. Just as I was preparing to head back to look for it, Li Mazi patted my shoulder, and said, "There isn''t enough time. Let''s go to the hospital first to stop the bleeding! Even if we manage to find the broken finger, it''s going to be very difficult to reattach it to the hand with the equipment they have at the hospital in town."


    On the road, the sluggard cried bitterly, and I asked him if he was in pain. However, the sluggard said that he didn''t feel anything, and the only thing that pained him was seeing one of his fingers missing.


    He unexpectedly didn''t feel any pain? I took a deep breath.


    This whole matter was truly bizarre.


    When the doctor at the local hospital saw the body of the sluggard, which was dripping with blood, he was stunned. Moreover, when he stitched the wounds of the sluggard, thetter didn''t utter a sound.


    But, when we were on our way back, around seven o''clock in the morning, the sluggard, who was sitting in the rear seat, started to cry out in pain.


    It seemed hed recovered his sense of pain.


    This exined why the sluggard hadn''t felt anything when hed previously injured himself, feeling the pain only when he woke up in the morning.


    But, even if he was in pain, there wasn''t much we could do. We didn''t have the time to turn around and go to the hospital again, asking for an injection of anesthetics.


    After getting used to the pain, the sluggard asked me, "B-Big Brother Zhang, who injured my hand?"


    Li Mazi snorted coldly. "Didn''t we tell you already? You bit it off yourself!"


    Theplexion of the sluggard paled. "You... youre joking, right? I bit off my own finger? I wasn''t possessed by a ghost for the past few days, right?"


    I shook my head. "We aren''t sure as to what is going on yet."


    The sluggard kept silent for a moment, and then said with anger, "After we get back, I''m throwing that blue and white porcin away! I refuse to believe that a grown-up man can''t deal with a stupid set of porcin!"


    I said in a hurry, "Don''t even think about throwing that blue and white porcin away. Otherwise, your fate will be a hundred times worse than now."


    The sluggard was terrified. "In that case, you have to help me, Big Brother Zhang!"


    I said with a nod, "Rest assured. I have more or less figured out what kind of materials were used to manufacture that blue and white porcin. I can assure you that, from today onwards, nothing strange will happen to you."


    Li Mazi immediately asked, "In the end, what was used to manufacture that blue and white porcin?"


    I replied, "I''m guessing that teeth and fingernails were mixed in the porcin when it was manufactured. After all, thiszybones always uses his teeth and fingernails to injure himself at night."


    Li Mazi couldn''t help but gasp. "Even in ancient times, there were simr nutjobs? Why the hell would anyone want to manufacture this type of porcin?"


    Of course, I was asking myself the same.


    After taking the sluggard back home, Li Mazi and I got in the car to start discussing that night''s n.


    First, we had to find a way to temporarily suppress that blue and white porcin, preventing it from injuring the sluggard again.


    Second, we had to figure out why the blue and white porcin was targeting the sluggard and not letting go of him.


    Only after discovering the root of the problem could we deal with this matter.


    "Right, is it possible that the blue and white porcin is now on its period? It didn''t do anything for generations, and just when it happened to fall into the hands of the sluggard, it started to act crazy," Li Mazi said, not knowing whether tough or cry.


    I told Li Mazi to get me some human teeth and fingernails; the more, the better. Li Mazi asked me, "What do you want to do with that stuff?"


    I said with a smile, "I want to fight poison with poison."


    As for how to use poison to fight poison, I wasnt sure, either. But, I didn''t tell Li Mazi this.


    Li Mazi went to collect the things Id asked for while I went to see the sluggard.


    At this time, the sluggard was in a fetal position due to the extreme pain. After seeing me, he knelt in front of me, looking very pitiful.


    In his eyes, I was perhaps the only straw he could grasp at.


    I sighed and helped him up, saying, "If you want to live, honestly reply to some of my questions."


    Since his life was at stake, the sluggard didn''t dare to refuse and immediately nodded, saying, "If I know the answer, I''ll definitely reply."


    I asked, "First, during the past few days, did you do anything that might have annoyed the blue and white porcin? Such as cing it in the bathroom or throwing it among your underwear?"


    The sluggard shook his head like a rattle-drum. "No, no, I absolutely haven''t done anything of the sort."


    "You better tell me the truth."


    "I really haven''t!" The sluggard felt wronged.


    "Good. In that case, reply to my second question. Did you offend anyone in the past few days, or let other peoplee in contact with the blue and white porcin? I feel that someone might have angered this blue and white porcin."


    The sluggard thought for a moment but still shook his head. "I can assure you that Ive treated the blue and white porcin like a treasure during this period of time, and I didn''t let anyone get close to it."


    Well, this was definitely strange. If nothing had happened, why was the blue and white porcin acting up like this?


    Two hourster, Li Mazi came back with a cloth wrapper in his hands.


    He arrived in front of me, and angrily threw the cloth wrapper at me, saying, "Next time, if you want to collect this weird stuff, do it yourself."


    I asked, "What happened?" Li Mazi''s face turned red. "The vigers leaped at the chance to rob me of my money. They wanted me to pay 2000 RMB for this little bit of fingernails."


    I was at a loss for words.


    Next, I told Li Mazi to buy me a big rooster, the redder itsb, the better. As for me, I ground the teeth and fingernails into a fine powder and fed it to the rooster.


    Li Mazi and the sluggard looked at me in puzzlement. After I was finished, the duo couldn''t hold back and asked, "What were you doing?"


    I said with a smile, "What could I possibly be doing? I''m preparing a substitute for this sluggard."


    Li Maziughed loudly, "You want a rooster to take the ce of this sluggard? Isn''t it too humiliating for this poor rooster? I bet it feels especially aggrieved."


    The sluggard red at Li Mazi. "Brother Li, can you mind yournguage? Look at what has be of me, and yet youre still making fun of me."


    Anyway, tonight''s task was to discover how the sluggard had offended the blue and white porcin. This was the only way to solve the problem.


    Given how wounded the sluggard was, there was no way he could cook. As such, Li Mazi gave him a box of instant rice, which he could boil in water for a bit and then eat. From the looks of it, it was the first time that the sluggard had eaten something of the sort. He said that it was delicious and almost ended up eating the box as well.


    Now, the long wait could begin.


    However, I suddenly started to get a little uneasy.


    I thought about the fact that my grandfather and father must have also encountered all sorts of strange things while doing this business. And, even when theyd met some unusual otherworldly items, theyd been able to solve the matter within one day.


    Compared to them, Icked both skills and knowledge. But, I felt that this whole profession consisted in gathering experience. An expert could tell the origin of an otherworldly item at a nce, and then act ording to the situation. Thereafter, solving the problem would be a piece of cake.


    The item we were dealing with this time was much more troublesome than the embroidered shoes. Due to this, I took a piece of paper and started to note down all the unexpected things that could happen. This was to avoid not knowing what to do in case something unexpected really happened.


    Night gradually fell. Li Mazi and I went on the roof again, carefully observing everything happening below us.


    As for the sluggard, I told him to ce the rooster on the bed, while he himself would sleep under the bed.


    Hopefully, this method would work, causing the otherworldly item to mistake the rooster for the sluggard.


    Tonight was slightly warmer, and the round moon was hanging in the sky. The moonlight shone on the distant forest, covering the ce with a silvery veil. Amidst all this, the houses of the vige acted as adornments, giving the ce a local vor. If not for this matter rted to the blue and white porcin, it wouldn''t be exaggerated to use the words ''paradisaicalnd'' to describe the current scenery.


    As usual, nothing happened before midnight...


    As far as I was concerned, this long wait was no different from torture.


    This was because I knew that the real danger had yet toe!

 Chapter 9: Carrying a Flogging Staff and Asking for Punishment

    Chapter 9: Carrying a Flogging Staff and Asking for Punishment


    Li Mazi and I were quite nervous as we looked at the rooster below. The rooster quietlyy on the bed, sleeping peacefully.


    As for the sluggard, he was probably awake since I could still hear his rapid breathing. No matter how bold one was, it was unlikely that they would get sleepy when their life was in danger.


    Time passed, and I was in a perpetual state of nervousness, which made me feel exhausted. But, just as before, I didn''t dare to rx for even a moment.


    At longst, the rooster moved!


    It moved a bit and then jumped down from the bed. Afterward, it frantically pped its wings, jumping around the room. I knew that it had sensed the impending danger.


    Animals were much better than humans when it came to detecting danger.


    However, the rooster quickly quieted down andy on the ground without moving in the slightest. It was looking at the entrance of the bedroom, absolutely terrified.


    I knew that the rooster had spotted something!


    Then, it suddenly looked upward, gazing at the two of us.


    My heart skipped a beat. The situation didn''t look good! Had that otherworldly item discovered my tricks?


    The eyes of the rooster were gloomy, and when we looked at each other, I felt as though it was mocking me. They didn''t feel like the eyes of a rooster... but rather that of a human.


    Just as I was staring at the rooster nkly, Li Mazi suddenly asked, "Little Brother Zhang, why did you hit me?"


    I immediately shivered, because I hadn''t touched Li Mazi at all.


    After seeing my strange expression, Li Mazi was startled, and he discovered that there was something behind us!


    Just when he was about to turn around, I faintly shook my head, taking out a small mirror and aiming it behind us.


    A tall human figure appeared in the mirror.


    The figure was pitch-ck, as though it was a mass of ck mist. I could only tell that the figure was wearing a set of ancient battle armor and had two glistening red eyesabsolutely terrifying.


    But, very soon, the human figure disappeared from the mirror.


    It seemed that it was the thing hiding inside the blue and white porcin!


    Just as I was preparing to chase after the figure, Li Mazi grabbed me in a flurry, saying, "Little Brother Zhang... quickly looked at the sluggard!"


    "What about the sluggard?" I lowered my head and looked downward. What I saw in the next moment startled me, making me speechless.


    At this time, the sluggard had crawled out from under the bed and was holding the neck of the rooster, his mouth wide open and ready to bite.


    The rooster was in great pain and continually pping its wings, struggling desperately.


    Nevertheless, its struggle stimted the sluggard even further. The sluggard bit again and again, directly tearing off the head of the rooster. Right now, his whole mouth was filled with feathers.


    Li Mazi and I were scared shitless. Yet, we didn''t head down to stop the sluggard because we still had no idea how hed offended the blue and white porcin.


    The sluggard suddenly cast aside the rooster in his hands and headed outside.


    His posture was very strange. He was walking on his tiptoes, with his body leaning forward. This posture was very simr to that of a mantis. He staggered as he moved forward, but he still didn''t lose his bnce or fall to the ground.


    At this time, his whole body was covered in the blood of that rooster, with his upper half naked. If one of the unaware vigers were to see him, they would definitely be scared to death.


    Li Mazi and I cautiously followed the sluggard.


    Along the way, I thought about the ck figure Id seen in the mirror.


    The armor the figure was wearing was seemingly the one used in the Eight Banners Division during the Qing Dynasty. In addition, it seemed to be the armor of a figure of the general rank.


    Here came the problem... how was this blue and white porcin rted to a great general of the Qing Dynasty?


    We knew that the blue and white porcin originated from the Imperial Pce. As such, was it possible that theyd used the teeth and fingernails of some great general to manufacture it? But, why would they do such a thing? One had to keep in mind that ancient people attached great importance to matters such as burying and bringing peace to the dead. As long as they didn''t suddenly go crazy, they wouldn''t spoil the remains of the deceasednot to mention that the other party was a general holding great power.


    In this fashion, we followed the sluggard and arrived at a willow tree forest outside the vige.


    It waste at night, and not even the moonlight could pass through the dense trees. Moreover, the dense ck mist was everywhere, and the ground beneath our feet was muddy. The surrounding environment was terrible.


    What worried me the most right now was losing sight of the sluggard due to the scarce illumination.


    Luckily, the sluggard moved forward at a moderate pace, and he didn''t get out of our line of sight.


    Just as we were wondering why the sluggard hade to the woods, he quickly climbed up a tree and snapped off a few branches.


    What was he doing?


    Li Mazi and I looked at each other, unsure as to what the sluggard was trying to do.


    After snapping enough branches, the sluggard jumped down from the tree. He collected them into a bundle and rushed forward while carrying the said bundle on his back.


    Now, I was sure that wed been discovered, because the sluggard had intentionally passed through the ce where Li Mazi and I were hiding. Hed even turned his head around to look at us.


    Those blood-red eyes seemed to be full of contempt.


    Li Mazi and I followed after him while wondering what his objective might be.


    I said, "I think I know what he wants to do..."


    Li Mazi asked out of curiosity, "Whats he doing?"


    I replied, "Offering a humble apology."


    "Offering a humble apology?" Li Mazi was startled. "And, to whom does he want to offer this apology?"


    I replied, "I don''t know. Let''s keep following him."


    If the sluggard wanted to offer a humble apology, it meant that hedmitted some kind of crime.


    From the looks of it, the blue and white porcin wasn''t targeting him without a reason!


    I suddenly saw the light. It seemed that the blue and white porcin wasn''t truly an evil item. As long as we discovered how the sluggard had offended it and offered it an apology, this matter shoulde to an end.


    While pondering this matter, most of the anxiety in my heart disappeared.


    The sluggard ran until he arrived in front of a rice field. There, he knelt on the ground and took out a branch from the buddle, ruthlessly whipping his back.


    After using the willow branch to whip his back, he would throw it on the ground.


    After whipping his back with all the willow branches, the sluggard started to dig in the rice field.


    His movements were both quick and vigorous, and he kept digging while shedding tears. The soil of the rice field was soft, and it was possible to dig with one''s bare hands. But, soon afterward, the fingernails of the sluggard started to bleed.


    From the looks of it, the problemy with this rice field!


    I took a step forward and grabbed the hair of the sluggard, pulling him backward and stuffing an onion into his mouth.


    At first, the sluggard struggled with all his might, and Li Mazi and Itwo grown menwere having trouble controlling him. However, as he chewed on the onion and ate a part of it, his struggles decreased and became weaker and weaker...


    In the end, the sluggard slowly regained consciousness.


    Li Mazi and I were squatting in the rice field, gasping for breath and looking at the sluggard.


    The sluggard looked around in a daze, and then looked at us. He spat out several fragments of onion and asked, "What... what am I doing here?"


    I sneered. "From the looks of it, youre still concealing the truth from us! Forget it... Li Mazi, were going back! Weve saved your life again and again, but youre still not telling us the whole truth. Theres no hope for you, no one can save you."


    After saying this much, I prepared to turn around and leave.


    But, the sluggard pounced forward and held my thigh. "Big Brother Zhang, I told you everything I know!"


    "Nonsense," I said angrily. "Did you do something to this rice field? Carefully think about it."


    Li Mazi reminded him, "Doesn''t this field belong to your family? You definitely did something bad in this ce!"


    The sluggard hesitated for a moment, and finally patted his head. "I knew it, I knew it... That bone must be the reason..."


    "What bone?" My eyes lit up as I stared at the sluggard. I was sure that this bone was the key to solving the problem!

 Chapter 10: Grave Robber

    Chapter 10: Grave Robber


    "A few days ago, while transnting rice seedlings, I identally hit a snow-white bone with my hoe. I thought that the bone would bring me bad luck. As such, I threw it in the willow tree forest. Now that I think about it, all these strange things started happening right after that event..." the sluggard said.


    "Why didn''t you tell us something this important earlier?!" I shouted angrily. "Quickly use your brain. Was someone buried in this field of yours? Possibly someone rted to the blue and white porcin."


    The sluggard thought for a long time and then looked at me with a worried expression. "My father once told me that this field was the ancestral grave of our family in the past, but it was turned into farnd during the Cultural Revolution."


    I gasped. "The bone you threw away might have belonged to one of your ancestors!"


    The sluggard was frightened. "I know I''ve sinned, but Big Brother Zhang, please save me!"


    I said, "Can you calm down a bit? Let me think carefully about it. Don''t you find it strange? Why would a bone that was supposed to be in the ancestral grave appear in the rice field? Li Mazi, answer this question. ording to the customs of your hometown, how deep are the graves located?"


    "At a depth of one meter," Li Mazi replied.


    "Then, someone dug out that bone. Lazyass, reply honestly, did you do something to the ancestral gave, like robbing its contents?"


    The sluggard immediately shook his head. "Absolutely not. Although I''m not really a model citizen, I don''t dare to do something as vile as digging up the grave of my ancestors."


    Judging from his expression, the sluggard wasn''t lying. Moreover, I was sure that he wouldn''t dare to lie after having reached this point.


    In that case, what was the deal with that bone? After analyzing the situation, I came to two conclusions.


    First, someone had robbed the ancestral grave of the sluggard.


    Second, the crustal movements had lifted up the ancestral grave.


    However, the most important thing to do right now was to find the bone that the sluggard had thrown away. Only after finding that bone would it be possible to quench the anger of the blue and white porcin.


    At this time, the sky had brightened a little, and the three of us rushed into the willow tree forest.


    Along the way, the sluggard told me in detail what had happened that day.


    I listened until I was bored, and then asked, "Are there any diggers around here? And, did you see any suspicious peoplee and go around your vige in this period of time?"


    "Diggers? What are those?" the sluggard asked.


    I said, "I''m talking about grave diggers."


    The sluggard was stunned. Then, he asked, "Big Brother Zhang... do you think someone robbed the ancestral grave of my family?"


    I replied, "That might be the case."


    After hearing my words, the sluggard flew into a rage and cursed nonstop. Well, the sluggard had every reason to feel bitter about the fact that his family grave had been dug up.


    Although hed be this poor, he still refused to touch the ancestral grave of his family. But now, he discovered that some stranger had taken advantage of it, stirring up a ho''s nest in the process. There was no way he wouldn''t get angry.


    It was like finding a pretty girlfriend and being all lovey-dovey with her when someone else was quietly bringing her to bed. Then, after she got pregnant, you would be the one paying the bills. It was indeed something infuriating.


    Iforted the sluggard and told him to find the bone first and put this matter aside untilter. After all, it was pointless to get angry now.


    The sluggard brought us to the depths of the willow tree forest, stopping in front of the biggest willow tree. ording to what he said, hed thrown the bone around here.


    I gasped and said, "Willow trees already carry a high level of negative energy, not to mention when the willow tree in question is a hundred years old. By throwing the bone here, you caused the negativity of the willow tree to cover the bone every day. Isn''t this the same as courting death?"


    The sluggard sighed. "But, how could I have possibly known that? I just wanted to keep the bone far from my field."


    Li Mazi got worried and asked me, "That bone didn''t be a ''spirit'', right?" In the past, hed heard from his elders that if a skeleton was buried beneath a willow tree, flesh would grow on the bone, and it woulde back to harm people.


    I said, "Although I don''t think itll go that far, let''s put this off until after weve found the bone."


    However, just as we approached the big tree, something suddenly fell from the treetop, giving us a scare and making us retreat hastily.


    After a careful look, we noticed that it was a colorful snake as thick as a wrist.


    The colorful snake threateningly hissed nonstop, telling us that it would bite if we got any closer.


    I suddenly thought of something and quickly raised my head, looking at the big willow tree.


    After looking upward, I was stunned.


    I saw that countless snakes were forcibly upying the big willow tree, and amidst this mass of snakes was a snow-white bone, stuck in a tree fork.


    I recalled something my grandfather had once told me: If a bone attracted a tiger, a ruckus would definitely rise.


    Perhaps this bone had really be a spirit!


    There were a lot of snakes in the countryside. As such, the sluggard wasn''t scared in the least after seeing the scene. He took out some realgar and hurled it toward the branches of the willow tree. Snakes hated the smell of realgar, and thus quickly scattered.


    The sluggard quickly climbed the tree and pulled the bone out of the tree fork. He held the bone in his hands and thought to himself, Ancestors, please forgive me."


    I said, "Let''s leave quickly. This ce isn''t too good."


    Afterward, we hurried back to the rice field.


    I told the sluggard to determine the precise location of the ancestral grave, but the sluggard shook his head, saying that he didn''t know where it was. The ancestral grave had been ttened during his father''s generation.


    Therefore, I had no choice but to tell the sluggard to go back to the vige and invite over someone old. An old person would very likely know the location of the ancestral grave of the sluggard''s family.


    The old man told us that hed also participated in the Cultural Revolution back then. At that time, he was still a student, and he happened to be in charge of ttening this graveyard. From what he remembered, the ancestral grave of the sluggard''s family was close to the boundary tablet because back then, they were nning to pull out the boundary tablet as well.


    Knowing this, we quickly inspected the area ten meters around the boundary tablet.


    Of course, we didn''t immediately start digging since it would just be a waste of time and energy. I simply used a shovel to feel out the surrounding terrain, bit by bit. Things went well, and we quickly found the ancestral grave on the west side of the boundary tablet.


    I said to the old man, "The ancestral grave of the sluggard''s family was robbed. We need help to move it somewhere else."


    The old man said that there was no problem. He could just ask someone toe over and check the geomancy of thend.


    I told Li Mazi to give the old man a thousand renminbi so that he could help us deal with this matter.


    Actually, moving the grave wasn''t my main objective. My objective was to return the bone where it belonged and bury the ancestor of the sluggard anew.


    If the bone wasn''t returned to its rightful ce, it would be like decapitating a body before the remains had yet to go cold. No wonder the ancestor had flown into a rage.


    However, there was still something that I wasn''t too clear about. In the end, what was the rtionship between that blue and white porcin and the family of the sluggard? Why was it stubbornly defending the ancestral grave of his family?


    From what I remembered, an imperial concubine had carried off the blue and white porcin from the Imperial Pce...


    As such, was it possible that there was some rtionship between the ''Blue Head'' and that imperial concubine?


    In almost every vige there would be someone in charge of burying the dead. These people would take a stroll around and check the geomancy of thend. Once theyd found a ''propitious ce'', they would call a bunch of vigers and get to work.


    A very simple ck canopy was erected above the ancestral grave. After that, they burned paper money as an offering to the dead and kowtowed. Only when the time was right did they start digging.


    After digging a one-meter-deep hole, someone shouted, Found it! I rushed over to take a look and discovered that theyd already put back the fallen gravestone.


    There was a row of characters on the gravestone. I took a quick look and then said to the sluggard, "This is the grave of the imperial concubine that went to the Imperial Pce."


    People in my line of business had to know a little bit of geomancy as well, and I believed that the tomb might be located to the north of the tombstone. As such, I told the workers to keep digging toward the north.


    However, I didn''t expect that the vigers would make a terrifying discovery while putting the brick wall outside the ancient grave in order. There was a big hole somewhere in the brick wall, and a rotting corpse was stuck there.


    The vigers digging the grave started screaming and threw their shovels and hoes to the ground.


    I tried to calm down the people present and carefully inspected the corpse.


    The left hand of the corpse was still in the middle of ''climbing'' upward, while the right one was nowhere to be seen. The whole body was rotting, and the stench was unbearable. Judging by the clothes, the corpse seemed to be of a man from our time.


    He shouldn''t have been dead for more than a month.


    Other than that, the facial features of the corpse were all twisted as though it had seen something terrifying right before dying.


    I concluded that this guy was a grave robber, and hed somehow died down here when he was trying to rob the grave of the imperial concubine.


    After hearing that he was a grave robber, the sluggard flew into a rage and forgot his fear. He grabbed his hoe and mercilessly hit the corpse. However, I quickly stopped him. Now wasn''t the time for these things.


    I told the vigers to call the police so that they could take care of the grave robbers corpse. After all, modern society was ruled by thew.


    At the same time, I asked Li Mazi if he recognized this person.


    Li Mazi quickly recognized the other party. That guy was unexpectedly Wu Tiezhu, who lived next door. Since he was a child, this guy had liked to steal small things. However, Li Mazi hadn''t expected that apart from stealing from the living, he would steal from the dead as well, finally dying in this ce. One could say that he got what he deserved.


    The sluggard was furious and said that he would definitely look for Wu Tiezhu''s family to settle this ount once the grave was moved.


    I didn''t pay attention to the various remarks the onlookers were making and concentrated my attention on Wu Tiezhu''s corpse.


    The more I looked at it, the more I felt that there was something fishy.


    Since this Wu Tiezhu had managed to get down here to rob the grave, why was he leaving empty-handed? Moreover, judging from his expression, he was seemingly running from this ce. It seemed like he was terrified back then, and he hadn''t bothered to take anything away.


    In that case, what did he see in the tomb of the imperial concubine that scared him so much?


    Also, what about his missing arm?

 Chapter 11: A Tale of Love

    Chapter 11: A Tale of Love


    I carefully sized up Wu Tiezhu''s corpse, somewhat perplexed.


    I could easily tell that there was something fishy with this situation. The cut on the missing arm wasn''t clean, and it almost felt as though the arm had been bitten off.


    Furthermore, Wu Tiezhu''s mouth was bulging as if something was stuffed inside.


    Just as I was preparing to have someone pry Wu Tiezhu''s mouth open to see what was inside, the police came over from the nearby town.


    The sluggard eagerly rushed to them and said, "Police officers, someone robbed the ancestral grave of my family! You must severely punish the perpetrators. They insulted my ancestors!"


    When the sluggard opened his mouth, his deadly bad breath blew in the faces of the police officers, making them retreat a step.


    Afterward, one of the police officers asked the sluggard what had happened, while the other took some pictures of the scene to gather evidence.


    The sluggard kept chattering on about the ancestral grave of his family. Atst, the police officer couldn''t bear it anymore and asked, "Actually, I only want to know how this person died..."


    I interjected, "I think he bit off his arm and then died of excessive blood loss."


    After hearing my words, the people on the scene gasped, one after another.


    The police officer didn''t believe my exnation and asked, "How did you reach this conclusion?"


    I replied, "Did you take a look at the cut on the corpse''s arm? You can easily tell that the arm was bitten off."


    Soon after, a person that looked like a forensic expert jumped into the hole and carefully examined the corpse. He nodded and said, "That''s right. The arm was indeed bitten off."


    I continued, "Take another look. There seems to be something stuffed into his mouth."


    The forensic expert nodded and opened his bag, using tweezers and pliers to pry open Wu Tiezhu''s mouth, finding a lot of rotten flesh inside, and even a finger.


    The people at the site got agitated; they were obviously afraid. After all, no matter how one looked at it, the fact that Wu Tiezhu had bitten himself to death was by no means normal. The crowd couldn''t help but associate Wu Tiezhu''s death to supernatural causes.


    On the other hand, the sluggard was very calm. He took delight in others'' misfortune and said, "Serves him right."


    The young forensic expert was also taken aback, and he no longer dared to look straight at that deste tomb. He likewise felt that this grave was extremely uncanny. He asked his colleagues to pull him up and quickly told us the results of the autopsy. "The deceased is Wu Tiezhu, a grave robber. He mutted himself while robbing the grave, biting off his left arm and dying from the excessive loss of blood. He might have been affected by some mental illness."


    As for the following matters, the authorities handled it all in a well-organized manner.


    The police notified Wu Tiezhu''s family, inviting them toe forward and identify the corpse.


    After the police had left, I told the people at the site to keep digging andpletely unearth the grave of the imperial concubine.


    The sluggard asked me, looking very anxious, "Since we already know that it was Wu Tiezhu''s doing, do we still need to continue with what we were doing? Can''t we just bury the dead here?"


    I shook my head and said, "That won''t do. Weve already disturbed the dead, and it would be wiser to bury them anew. Moreover, the blue and white porcin led us to the ancient grave so that we could unearth it... but, why did it do that? Aside from that grave digger, there would be something in the coffin as well."


    The sluggard was now a faithful follower of mine, so he agreed to my suggestion and kept digging.


    After the surrounding grey bricks were moved aside, the internal part of the tombs chamber was revealed. The tombs chamber wasn''t too big, and there were some bottles and jars scattered here and there. There was also the ghastly sight of a coffin painted in red in the middle.


    The lid of the coffin had been pushed aside. Needless to say, this was Wu Tiezhu''s doing.


    After seeing that the vigers weren''t too keen on taking action, I went forward and tied a rope around the coffin, telling the vigers to pull it out.


    When the coffin appeared before everyone''s eyes, the people at the site opened their eyes wide and were rendered speechless.


    The female corpse inside the coffin wasn''t rotten and had been perfectly preserved. Teeth, hair, and even eyshes; everything was clearly visible. She wore beautiful clothing worthy of an imperial concubine and had a smile on her face. Her handsy t, and she looked very serene.


    She had turned into a desated corpse.


    I noticed that she was tightly holding a scroll in her hand.


    After hesitating a little, I finally stretched out my hand to remove the scroll, taking a quick look at it.


    There was a poem written above.


    "The picture of the dead suddenly bes so beautiful, and one can''t help but sigh.


    Filled with sorrow and all alone, why can''t we be together in life and death?


    Dying together and meeting in the underworld, with our bones buried beneath a deste mountain.


    After getting reborn, we would meet again and read books together.


    What if I''m locked up in a dark coffin? The impression of your countenance in my heart is enough to keep mepany.


    The happy past has already be dust, and I can only remember you and cry."


    Although I wasn''t an expert when ites to ancient poetry, I could tell at a nce that it was a poem about love.


    In short, it talked about how a person would be filled with emotion in front of the portrait of their dead lover,menting that they couldn''t share life and death with them. After recalling the begone joys of the past, tears couldn''t help but flow from one''s eyes.


    However, there was something I didn''t understand. Why did the imperial concubine have this scroll with her? For whom had she written this poem? After all, her lover had seemingly died prematurely...


    During the rule of feudal society, there were countless concubines like this one in the Imperial Pce. Since gaining the favor of the Emperor was wishful thinking, they could only find someone else to rely on.


    It was unknown whod been lucky enough to obtain the love of this imperial concubine, but their fate hadn''t been too good, and theyd prematurely passed away.


    That person was likely rted to the ''Blue Head''.


    Currently, I didn''t have the time to investigate this matter. Therefore, I told the people at the site to cover the coffin again and seal it with iron nails. As for the matter rted to the new location of the grave, it was something out of my expertise, and the specialists in the vige would take care of it.


    Afterward, Li Mazi and I went to the sluggard''s house and leafed through his genealogical records to discover something about the origin of the ''Blue Head''.


    Towards the end of the Qing Dynasty, a famous general named Nn identally met this imperial concubine. The duo fell in love at first sight. The man appreciated the literary talent of the woman, while the woman was awed by the bravery of the man.


    At that time, under the rules of feudal society, the duo had faced all sorts of pressures and could only have trysts in secret.


    Later, Nn was seriously injured during a great battle. Seeing that he wouldn''t be able to make it, the imperial concubine was extremely sad and didn''t eat for three days. Although they hadn''t been born on the same day, they could at least die on the same day.


    Upon seeing this situation, Nn was also in great pain. Therefore, he wrote down his testament, and ordered his servants to use his teeth and ashes to manufacture the ''Blue Head'' so that he could forever apany the imperial concubine.


    The imperial concubine was heartbroken after receiving the Blue Head. She would hug it all night and cry bitterly.


    Later, she discovered that this set of blue and white porcin was far from ordinary. She almost felt as though the great general Nn was apanying her every night.


    Perhaps being able to stay together like this was the best oue for the duo at that time...


    Afterward, when the Eight-Power Allied Forces attacked Beijing[1], the imperial concubine managed to safely escape the Imperial Pce with the help of the Blue Head. Moreover, she brought several treasures with her, enough tost for the rest of her life.


    No one would have expected that even after his death, the great general Nn would use his spirit to protect his beloved. Time slowly passed, and a hundred yearster, his love hadn''t diminished in the slightest.


    ording to our original agreement, we were supposed to take away the Blue Headit was the reward for our trip here.


    However, who had the heart to break up these two lovers after hearing this heroic and moving story?


    Furthermore, it was unlikely that the Blue Head would stay calm if I were to forcefully take it away.


    Finally, I told the vigers to bury the Blue Head and the imperial concubine together...


    Li Mazi obviously flew in a rage, and he ignored me for three days and three nights. After all, who wouldnt be angry if several hundred thousand renminbi that should belong to them were buried underground?


    Li Mazi wasn''t the only one in this state, because even I felt my heart bleed.


    In order to repay us, the sluggard took several funerary objects from the ancient grave and gifted them to us.


    All the objects came from the Imperial Pce, and they had considerable value. Therefore, we still made some profit.


    After the grave was moved, the sluggard didn''t experience strange things again. Perhaps due to the blessing of his ancestors, the sluggard made quite a sum from the jewelry in the tomb. Afterward, he worked hard and ended up bing a real estate businessman.


    Compared to the lucky sluggard, Wu Tiezhu''s family was rather miserable.


    First, Wu Tiezhu''s father got into a car ident and became a vegetable. Wu Tiezhu''s mother couldn''t bear the family pressure anymore and killed herself after drinking poison. Even the son of Wu Tiezhu''s elder brother was born with an imperforate anus.


    People said that it was retribution for Wu Tiezhu''s evil deeds.


    Li Mazi had once asked me, "Would my family also face retribution?"


    I only smiled and didn''t say anything.


    Who knows, perhaps there was still a pair of eyes watching us in secret?


    Actually, the fact that Elder Brother Wu''s son had been born with an imperforate anus wasn''t a big deal. It was just a birth defect that could be fixed with a surgical operation.


    1. Troops from the United States, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Russia and Japan were sent to North China in 1900 to suppress the Boxer Rebellion.

 Chapter 12: Yamas Execution Ground

    Chapter 12: Yama''s Execution Ground


    Now that I had some money at my disposal, I decided to take a break after going back home.


    After all, Id been so scared during the past few days that I could hardly have a proper meal.


    Li Mazi would also run to my shop asionally, bringing wine each time.


    During these days, my capacity for alcohol had been gradually strengthened by Li Mazi.


    One day, Li Mazi asked me after getting drunk, "Did you get any business offerstely?"


    His butt would sooner orter develop hemorrhoids if he kept sitting there all day.


    I said ill-humoredly, "How many otherworldly items do you think there are in this world? It''s perfectly normal for people in this line of business to not do business for 3-5 years."


    Li Mazi sighed and said, "Its because you guys never take the initiative! If the pie doesn''t fall into yourp, you have to look for it. Tomorrow, I''ll bring you to the remote countryside so that you can gain some experience."


    The next day, Li Mazi really drove to my ce. Hed stuffed all sorts of things into the trunk of his car; there was even a tent inside. From the looks of it, wed be going on a long trip.


    I could only force a smile and say, "Brother, theres always time to make money. Why go through all this trouble?"


    Li Mazi grinned and said, "Little Brother, how can you not understand? I need to save money for my son. I have to pay for his school, buy him a house, and get him a wife. Do you think it''s easy to raise a son? Actually, you should also put more effort into it. You haven''t even gotten yourself a wife yet."


    Sigh, whatever. There was no point in sitting in the shop all day. As such, I might as well apany Li Mazi for a trip outside and gain some experience.


    After thinking up to this point, I packed up some clothes and set out with Li Mazi.


    I got bored while sitting in the car doing nothing, and before long, I fell asleep. When I opened my eyes, it was already dark outside.


    I stretched my body and nced at the GPS, discovering that we were already 700-800 km away from home.


    I was startled, and asked Li Mazi, "Hey, is the GPS broken?"


    Li Maziughed awkwardly. He looked exhausted and his eyes were red.


    After seeing his appearance, I was startled again. So, I asked, "You didn''t drive for the whole day, right?"


    Li Mazi nodded his head, yawning. Then, his hand slipped, and we almost crashed into a big tree on the roadside.


    I told Li Mazi to stop the vehicle, and then scolded him, "Tell me honestly, what are you scheming? You aren''t nning to bring me out of the country, right?"


    Li Mazi kept yawning. "I was afraid that youd refuse to go if I told you the name of the ce. Therefore, I was forced to act first and report afterward. Anyway, just hold on for a while, were almost there..."


    After saying this much, he prepared to go on driving even though he couldn''t keep his eyes open.


    I chased Li Mazi out of the driver''s seat; there was no way he could drive in that condition.


    I still felt some lingering fear when I recalled that wed almost bumped into a tree earlier.


    Anyway, it was toote to head back. Therefore, I could only start the car and keep following the route disyed on Li Mazi''s GPS.


    I asked Li Mazi, "How did you get information on this ce thousands of kilometers away? Moreover, did an otherworldly item appear where we are heading?"


    However, what I got in return was Li Mazi''s snoring... I couldn''t help but inwardly curse him for his greed.


    I kept driving for two hours, until we finally arrived in Jiangsu Province, Kunshan County. After getting on the highway, I woke Li Mazi up.


    Li Mazi asked me in a daze, "Where are we?"


    After I told him our current position, he took out his phone and dialed a number.


    Very soon, a ck car drove in front of us and started honking.


    Li Mazi told me to follow the car.


    Also, that person seemed to be in a hurry since they were driving at 130 km/h on a provincial highway. I had no choice but to press on the elerator to keep up with them.


    Luckily, before long, the driver of the ck car stopped in front of a hotel in Kunshan County.


    The driver was a young man wearing sportswear. He threw two room cards at us and said, "You guys went through a lot of trouble. I''ve already booked your rooms. You can stay here for the night! I''lle looking for you as soon as I finish dealing with something."


    After saying this much, he got into the car and quickly drove away.


    I was baffled by his behavior and asked Li Mazi, somewhat perplexed, "Who was that guy? Can we trust him?"


    Li Mazi grinned. "Now do you understand why all the secrecy? We might have chanced upon something big this time. Let''s head to the hotel and take a shower. I''m dead tired."


    Possibly because hed been sitting in the car for too long, but Li Mazi''s legs were all numb, and he squatted down right after getting out of the car.


    I didn''t feel too well, either. I felt lightheaded and returned to my senses only after vomiting a bit.


    I inwardly cursed Li Mazi. If the profit wasn''t over one million renminbi this time, I was going to beat him to death to vent my anger!


    We spent the night in the hotel, and Li Mazi gave me a new set of clothes when we woke up the next day. He insisted on making me wear clothes that wouldn''t hinder action.


    After unrolling the set of clothes, I discovered that it was a pure-ck hoodie.


    This made me unhappy, and I asked Li Mazi, "Why did you buy this cheap stuff? If I wear it in public, my image will drop quite a bit!"


    Li Mazi grinned and said, "We have to take action covertly this time, and its best to choose clothes that woulde in handy at night. A set of ck clothes will prevent others from discovering us too easily."


    The more I heard about this matter, the more I felt that there was something wrong. I grabbed Li Mazi''s cor and told him to tell me the truth.


    Li Mazi cautiously shut the windows and the door. Then, he said in a low voice, "Little Brother, do you know about Yama''s Execution Ground?"


    Yama''s Execution Ground?


    I was perplexed. I had no idea what Li Mazi was talking about.


    Li Mazi exined, "Some time ago, when people were digging up a reservoir in a vige in Kunshan County, they unearthed this ce known as Yama''s Execution Ground. Think about it! Given the strange name of that ce, there must be a lot of otherworldly items inside."


    I didn''t really believe that there was a ''King of Hell'' in this world. Therefore, I asked Li Mazi, "Tell me clearly, what does the name Yama''s Execution Ground even mean?"


    Li Mazi cleared his throat, and then said, "In the past, when I was doing business in Suzhou City, I acknowledged a person as my sworn brother.


    Recently, this sworn brother opened a food processing facility, but the business didn''t really boom.


    ording to what my sworn brother said, every week, one or two strange events would take ce in his facility. For example, the machinery would suddenly start operating in the middle of the night. While getting off work, employees would see human figures appear on the windowpane.


    One time, an employee went to the toilet, and when he finished urinating, he heard the sound of a sword being unsheatheding from behind him. Guess what he saw when he turned around? He saw a Japanese man wearing a military uniform, grinning at him while holding up a de. The employee fainted on the spot, and he resigned soon after regaining consciousness.


    The news that the ce was haunted spread far and wide, and the processing facility, which wasn''t doing that well to begin with, was now in an even worse situation. Afterward, his employees left one after another, and the facility went bankrupt."


    My interest was piqued, and I asked, "What happened next? How did youe to the conclusion that the ce was Yama''s Execution Ground? Did they see ox-headed and horse-faced demons boil people in cauldrons full of oil?"


    Li Mazi said, "They even saw a beheading device, let alone cauldrons to boil people."


    I was immediately scared out of my wits.


    At first, I thought that people were just exaggerating things and spreading false rumors when they mentioned Yama and the eighteenyers of hell, but little did I expect that there would really be a beheading device, as well as cauldrons full of oil, at that haunted ce. I asked Li Mazi to tell me everything in detail.


    Anyway, after Li Mazi''s sworn brother saw that the processing facility was done for, he directly sold thend to the government, having them continue with the excavation of the reservoir.


    However, the people at the site met with great trouble while excavating.


    After the construction team dug to a depth of around two meters, they unexpectedly unearthed a skeleton, as well as arge number of bricks.


    Those bricks seemed quite old and were usuallyrge, definitely different from modern red bricks.


    At first, the construction team was very excited, for they thought that theyd found an ancient grave that would make them rich.


    However, as they kept digging, they discovered that there was something wrong... because it didn''t seem as though theyd chanced upon an ancient grave, but rather, amon grave.


    In just half a day, theyd dug up several skeletons.


    Most of the skeletons were fragmentary and iplete. They didnt have missing arms, only legs. It felt as though someone had sawed them in half while still alive.


    Now, everyone understood why the food processing facility was haunted.


    With so many skeletons buried underneath, it would be strange if itwasn''thaunted!


    After things got to this point, the construction team had no ns to dig further.


    Everything was too strange, and they were afraid that they would anger the dead in themon grave if they continued, causing trouble for everyone.


    However, the spirits of the dead had already been angered...


    That very night, the construction team had an ident. The person in charge at the site suddenly died, and his death was truly miserable.


    He fell on his face into a deep fryer, and the boiling oil distorted his features beyond recognition.


    His miserable death angered the other members of the construction team.


    Therefore, they unearthed all the skeletons that were still underground, burned them with fire, and even invited over a Buddhist monk to exorcise the ce.


    As they kept digging, they finally discovered that the ce wasn''t amon grave, but the so-called Yama''s Execution Ground.


    Because, while excavating, theyd found a marble tablet with the words ''Yama''s Execution Ground'' engraved on it.


    Seeing those three words, everyone trembled with fear.


    Afterward, they also unearthed a big cauldron, and inside the cauldron was a skeleton that had been boiled until bing soft.


    Aside from the cauldron, there were also several other bizarre itemsfor example, arge rusted straw cutter, a noose, and so on.


    After discovering that what theyd unearthed was the execution ground of the King of Hell, everyone was scared out of their wits. Not even the Buddhist monk theyd invited over was able to keep the situation under control, and before leaving, hed told the construction team to quickly fill up the hole.


    However, the matter didn''t end just because theyd filled up the execution ground...


    That night, another member of the construction team died.


    This guy also died in a tragic manner, beheaded by a kitchen knife, with his head separated from the rest of his body.


    Everyone knew that this execution was an emtion of the ''beheading device'' theyd seen earlier.


    The news that Yama had been angered and wanted to drag everyone into the depths of hell spread like wildfire.


    Southerners were known for being very superstitious, and after witnessing something this strange, they immediately believed the rumor.


    The construction team didn''t report the matter to the police, but decided to conceal it instead. They found an excuse and said that the geology of thend wasn''t suitable to excavate a reservoir.


    The people in the vige were also afraid, and theyd make offerings to Yama''s Execution Ground every day in the hopes of appeasing Yama''s anger.


    However, it unexpectedly worked. Afterward, no other members of the construction team died, and everything quieted down.


    I gasped and looked at Li Mazi with an inconceivable look on my face. "Everything you said about those dead people, is it true?

 Chapter 13: Li Mazis Difficulties

    Chapter 13: Li Mazi''s Difficulties


    Li Mazi nodded. "Everything is true."


    I didnt think twice before pping Li Mazi. Luckily, Li Mazi was quick enough to dodge.


    My actions angered Li Mazi. He clenched his teeth and red at me. "What are you doing?"


    I shouted, "Bastard, just how many times do I have to tell you?! In this line of business, there are three types of items we don''t ept, and among them are items that can endanger one''s life. Are you trying to get me killed by involving me in this matter?"


    Li Mazi couldn''t help butugh. "Little Brother, don''t tell me that youre afraid? Do you really think that what they unearthed is Yama''s Execution Ground?"


    I said angrily, "It doesn''t matter. I don''t want to meddle in this matter anymore."


    Li Mazi sighed. "Little Brother, I have to tell you something. This time, I didn''t onlye here to make money, but also to save a life."


    I was dumbfounded. "Whose life do you want to save?"


    Li Mazi said faintly, "Up until now, I''ve been concealing the truth from you. But, do you really think that I, Li Mazi, am a greedy fellow that only thinks about money? Everything I''m doing, I''m doing for my son! My son suffers from leukemia, and I need to make enough money to cover the expenses of the surgery. Earlier, I didn''t have much money, and the cost of the expensive surgery was an astronomical figure for me. But now, thanks to you, I''ve seen hope. I feel like I can make enough money to cover the expenses of the operation!"


    "I''ve never been a good father, and I didn''t allow my son to have a happy life. I didn''t give him paternal love, and I wasn''t even able to save his mother. I owe him too much! Little Brother Zhang, please, help me! Let alone taking risks... if I could exchange my life for my son''s, I would do it without hesitation and with a smile on my face!"


    After saying this much, Li Mazi unexpectedly knelt on the ground.


    I was surprised. I really hadn''t expected that Li Mazi''s son suffered from leukemia.


    This was the concern of a parent! I could now totally understand why he was acting like this. Li Mazi had pinned all his hopes on his son. One could say that his son was his life.


    The fact that his son suffered from leukemia made him feel even worse than what he wouldve felt if hed been the one suffering from it. No wonder hed been so greedy and had dared to deceive me, bringing me here without telling me the truth.


    I suddenly felt that Li Mazi was really pitiful.


    However, what to do next? Should I help him or not? ording to the rules of my profession, Id be putting myself in danger if I continued on this path, for I had determined that the current situation was far more dangerous than the previous ones.


    To put things bluntly, it wasnt an exaggeration to say that I would lose my life nine times out of ten this time around.


    In addition, not only we would have to face that Yama''s Execution Ground, but also the vigers. If they got wind that we wanted to mess with Yama''s Execution Ground, they would definitely not wee us.


    I had read several times in the newspaper about lynchings taking ce in southern viges, and there''s even been cases where people were tortured to death.


    After seeing Li Mazi''s tears, my heart softened.


    "I''ll help you, but I can only do my best. If I see that this otherworldly item is beyond my capabilities, I''ll immediately leave," I said sternly to Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi kowtowed with tears in his eyes, saying, Its fine as long as you do your best.


    He just wanted to fight for his son. Even if he were to fail, he wouldnt regret it afterward.


    I nodded my head.


    I didn''t feel like eating that day since the only thing I could think of was the matter rted to that Yama''s Execution Ground. After seeing how nasty those two murder cases had been, I was almost sure that it was the doing of an otherworldly item!


    Although I still didn''t know how dangerous that item was, it was definitely nothing to be trifled with.


    Li Mazi said that we might have to get into action in the evening, advising me to get ready to set out at any time. I gazed outside the window and discovered that a faintly visible mass of dark clouds had appeared above the far-off vige.


    It was a very bad omen, which made me lose even more confidence.


    In the evening, Li Mazi and I prepared our things and patiently waited for Li Mazis sworn brother toe.


    However, even after we waited until 11 PM, there was still no trace of guy. I couldn''t help but get anxious.


    I started walking back and forth in the room, and my feelings of uneasiness got stronger and stronger...


    Around 11:30 PM, Li Mazi''s phone finally rang, and after he nced at the screen, his face paled.


    It was a text message from his sworn brother, and the contents read: ''The situation has changed, leave quickly.


    Without further ado, I went to pack up my things. "Don''t stand there dumbfounded. Let''s quickly leave this ce!"


    I could well imagine what would happen if the vigers grabbed us...


    I ran out of the hotel and drove the car until reaching a remote ce. After seeing that there was no one around, I told Li Mazi to give his sworn brother a call and ask him if wed been discovered.


    However, that sworn brother of his didn''t pick up even though we called him several times.


    I was getting more and more anxious. The vigers hadn''t beaten him to death, right...?


    The next morning, that guy finally called back. Li Mazi immediately asked him what was going on.


    We then discovered that the vige head held a meetingst night, telling everyone that one of the vigers was in cahoots with outsiders and nned to steal the items inside Yama''s Execution Ground. This person was surely guilty of the most heinous crime.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother believed that hed been discovered, and he was obviously scared out of his wits. Therefore, he secretly sent us a message, telling us to get out of here as soon as possible.


    Later, he discovered that the person the vige head was referring to wasn''t him, but another viger. As a result, that guy was beaten half to death and eventually sold out his aplice...


    Li Mazi asked his sworn brother, "How did the vige head punish them?"


    His sworn brother didn''t reply, but we could guess that they hadn''t ended well.


    I suggested to leave the ce, but Li Mazi managed to convince me again by bringing up his son''s leukemia.


    I felt powerless, thinking that I was simply too tenderhearted.


    Li Mazi asked his sworn brother, "What do we do now?"


    Li Mazis sworn brother was surely brave, and he said, "It''s better not to wait,e to my house this evening. You can temporarily stay there. Don''t worry, you won''t get discovered."


    After hearing his words, my face darkened.


    Wasn''t it the same as courting death if we went to the vige right now?


    Even Li Mazi was taken aback, and he suggested to wait until things had calmed down before sneaking into the vige.


    That sworn brother of Li Mazis got impatient. "You guys don''t understand! With things how they are, they won''t believe that someone would have the balls to mess with Yama''s Execution Ground. If youe over right now, it''ll be much easier. In addition, as they say, the most dangerous ce is also the safest."


    I suggested, Lets wait for another two days and see what happens.


    Li Mazis sworn brother got even more impatient. "Perhaps you guys can wait, but I can''t. If the construction team doesn''t build that reservoir, the government won''t pay me for thend. In addition, how can I let the vigers manage things when those pieces of antiques were unearthed inmnd? Are you guysing? If you aren''t, I''ll look for someone else."


    After discovering that we might lose our target, Li Mazi was about to go crazy. He told his sworn brother to be patient and meet us in the evening.


    Since things had reached this point, there wasn''t much I could do. I could only rush headlong into danger.


    We put our things in order, and as expected, Li Mazi''s sworn brother came to meet us in the evening.


    Seeing our anxious faces, he smiled and reassured us, "Don''t worry! The vigers won''t discover you."


    That fellow told Li Mazi and I to get into the trunk of his ck car. As a result, we got tossed about for the whole trip, stopping only after wed arrived at the vige. Both of us had a dizzy spell and started throwing up as soon as we got out of the car.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother quickly brought us into his vi, letting us stay in the kitchen for the time being. We weren''t allowed to stroll around the vige without his permission.


    I sneered inwardly. What was the difference between this and putting us under house arrest?


    Li Maziforted me, "Try to endure, alright? Let''s concentrate on our end goal instead of these small things."


    After putting my bag down, I asked Li Mazi''s sworn brother, "Can we go to Yama''s Execution Ground? I want to inspect the ce and get an idea of how dangerous it is."


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother said, "Let''s wait for now. There are still some people there right now. At around 3 AM, the vigers guarding the ce wille back to sleep. It''s not toote to go there at that time."


    I nodded and asked Li Mazi''s sworn brother, "Can you get me a gray rat and use a needle to prick its eyes and ears? It mighte in handy in a while."


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother looked at me in puzzlement, but he still did what I asked of him.


    Li Mazi and Iy down in the basement, recovering our energy. Around an hourter, Li Mazi''s sworn brother came looking for us and said, "The vigers guarding the ce have left already. I immediately hurried over."


    I asked Li Mazi''s sworn brother, "Did you get the rat?"


    He gave me a stic bag and asked curiously, "Why do you want to take a rat with you?"


    I smiled and exined, "A rat that can''t see or hear won''t be able to rely on its sense of hearing or sight, and will be forced to rely on its instinct alone. These creatures are much more sensitive than ordinary human beings when ites to detecting negative energy. This way, we''ll be able to find the urate position of the otherworldly item."


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother gave me a thumbs up and said, "As expected, youre truly an expert."


    I tied a rope to the tail of the rat and ced it on the ground. Afterward, I took Li Mazi with me and followed after it.


    As soon as the rat touched the ground, it started to kick blindly and attempted to run away.


    However, it was unable to run away since there was a rope tied to its tail.


    After a while, it stopped struggling and obediently moved forward. It trotted back and forth, and it would asionally stop to sniff the ground, continuing to move forward immediately after.


    This continued for around 5-6 minutes, but the rat still didn''t head in the direction of Yama''s Execution Ground...


    I was a bit disappointed. Did it mean that there were no otherworldly items in Yama''s Execution Ground?

 Chapter 14: The Iron Hook

    Chapter 14: The Iron Hook


    Of course, that was just me overthinking. Slowly, the little rat seemingly sensed something, instantly going crazy and rushing forward.


    I took a look around, and the direction the rat was heading in was the same as Yama''s Execution Ground!


    We were unable to keep up with the rat, and the impatient rodent continually pulled at the rope tied to its tail. Atst, I decided to let go of the rope.


    The rat dashed forward like an arrow, and the three of us closely followed after it.


    Then, just as the rat arrived in front of therge hole the construction team had dug upthe so-called Yama''s Execution Groundit suddenly stopped, starting to jump on the spot.


    It was jumping in a rather bizarre way. While in midair, it would rotate its body by 180 degrees and then violently bump its head on the ground.


    Upon seeing this scene, I was dumbfounded. The rat had apparently gone insane after sensing the negative energy...


    After some time, the bleeding rat made an effort to reach the edge of the big hole, throwing itself down.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother turned on his shlight and illuminated the area below. Then, he helplessly shook his head and said, "The rat died."


    I was absolutely terrified. As such, I told Li Mazi''s sworn brother to pack everything up and get back.


    Once we returned home, I was still shaken. I felt that his item wasn''t something I could deal with.


    Li Mazi and his sworn brother moved next to me and asked, "How was it?"


    I lit a cigarette and said, "What can I tell you? The level of negativity inside Yama''s Execution Ground is too high, to the point that it can directly influence small animals. Those animals prefer to die rather than keep suffering under the effects of the negative energy. It seems that the item down there is truly dangerous!"


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother gasped. "No wonder my food processing facility lost all its workers. That thing drove them out."


    Li Mazi asked me while trembling, "What are you nning to do next?"


    I thought for a bit and said, "Theres no n for now. Tomorrow, we''ll go to Yama''s Execution Ground again and take a look around."


    We didn''t speak all night, and Li Mazi and I slept in the basement until noon. As we finished lunch, it was already 2 PM.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother said that the vigers were taking their afternoon nap and that this was the best opportunity we had to take a look at the ce.


    I nodded and followed Li Mazi''s sworn brother to Yama''s Execution Ground.


    Even though it was broad daylight, I could still feel a chilling from the entrance of that ce... one could well imagine how dangerous it was!


    After those members of the construction team had died, no one dared to dig up this Yama''s Execution Ground again. As such, thend fell into disuse, with residential waste piled up everywhere.


    The big hole in the center was especially eye-catching.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother bravely brought us to that hole.


    From the outside, one could see that thered been an arched basement down there in the past, simr to the air-raid shelters used during the War of Resistance against Japan. The basement was blocked with reinforced concrete on both sides, and it looked very firm.


    The words ''Yama''s Execution Ground'' were carved on a marble tablet at the entrance of the said basement, looking rather disturbing. I wasn''t sure why, but those words seemed to have a life of their own and acted as a great deterrent. I couldnt help but feel fear deep inside my heart.


    If this ce gave me such a feeling even in broad daylight, one could imagine what kind of terrifying negative energy was concealed there!


    The area inside the basement was pitch-ck. So, Li Mazi''s sworn brother used his shlight to illuminate the interior.


    I discovered that the basement was pretty big, around the size of a ser field.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother asked me, "Do we want to go inside and take a look?"


    I hesitated for a moment, but still decided to take a look while standing at the entrance.


    The scenery inside the basement was basically the same as what Li Mazi had told me. The ground was even, paved with gray bricks. I took the shlight and illuminated the ce, discovering that strange instruments of torture were ced every few meters.


    There were a lot of them, so many that both my hands weren''t enough to count them.


    The most eye-catching one was a cauldron, big enough to amodate a grown man.


    Other than that, there were countless jars that had human organs stuffed inside, and skeletons were scattered everywhere on the ground.


    On both sides of the wall arge number of iron hooks were hanging. The iron hooks looked rusty and somewhat reddish. I guessed that the red color was very likely dried up blood.


    Anyway, everything seemed quite normal at first nce. However, the more normal it looked, the more anxious I became.


    I felt truly powerless in front of this scary execution ground, and I didn''t know where to start...


    At this time, a sound was transmitted from the construction site, seemingly someones cough. The expression of Li Mazi''s sworn brother changed as he said, "The vigers in charge of guarding the ce have returned. Let''s quickly get out of here."


    I swiftly took a few pictures with my phone and then followed Li Mazi''s sworn brother, running away through another route.


    After getting back home, I borrowed that fellowsptop and moved the pictures from my phone to hisputer. Then, I zoomed in, carefully inspecting the photos in the hopes of finding some clues.


    What made my scalp go numb was that the content of the pictures didn''t disappoint me.


    There was actually a person hung up in one corner of Yama''s Execution Ground!


    The body was hanging from one of those iron hooks; its head tilted toward us. It almost felt as if the corpse was looking at us.


    At first, we thought it might be an optical illusion generated by the bad lighting and the phone camera, but after I zoomed in again, we got scared out of our wits.


    There really was someone hanging from the iron hook! Although its face was blurred, the eyes and nose were visible. I could tell the corpse had been staring at us from beginning to end.


    I visualized the scene of that corpse getting hung on the iron hook, a sneer on its face as its body swayed left and right with the wind.


    What I found even more iprehensible was that the man was seemingly still alive because he was holding a long de in his hand!


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother came over to pour me some water. Then, he saw the screen of theputer and screamed, stumbling to the ground.


    I helped him up and asked, "Look carefully, do you recognize this person?"


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother nodded his head, hisplexion pale. "I... I recognize him. That guy was a member of the construction team, the one that was boiled to death in the huge cauldron. However, the vigers buried him a while back!"


    Li Mazi also gulped. "It''s over... this time, we chanced upon a real ghost."


    After hearing his words, I was also baffled. How could someone that had been buried a while back appear in Yama''s Execution Ground? Not to mention the weird posture they were in...


    I told Li Mazi''s sworn brother, "I have something to ask of you. Go and notify the vige head and tell him to get that body out of Yama''s Execution Ground. Right, remember to pay attention to the de in the hand of that person! If you see blood on it, do everything you can to bring it back with you. I feel that the de is the reason the corpse of that man ended up in that ce. That de is definitely a top-ranked otherworldly item."


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother looked at me, somewhat scared. "But... isn''t that the ghost of the worker?"


    Iughed and said, "Do you really think that a phone camera can capture a ghost?"


    After hesitating for a moment, Li Mazi''s sworn brother still did what Id asked of him.


    In the meantime, Li Mazi quickly deleted the pictures. He said that they were too inauspicious and that he wouldn''t be able to sleep at night with them around.


    One hourter, that fellow managed to convince the vige head, and they headed toward the execution grounds while followed by a group of young vigers.


    The vige head was somewhat skeptical, but he still decided to take a look.


    However, he didn''t expect that they would really find the corpse of the construction team member on the execution grounds, which theyter carried out.


    At this time, the corpse was hardly recognizable. It had bepletely blue and emanated a strong stench.


    All the young vigers avoided it like the gue, keeping a certain distance from it.


    During all this, I was hiding amidst the young vigers and I noticed that the corpse was still tightly holding that de in its hand.


    The vige head started to discuss with the others on how to deal with the corpse. In the meantime, Li Mazi''s sworn brother seized the opportunity to cast the de aside.


    In the end, the vige head decided that it was better to directly cremate the body. Moreover, he suggested inviting over a great master to ferry the soul of the dead, preventing the spirit from turning into an evil ghost that would bring harm to the people. The vigers nodded in agreement before carrying the corpse away. At the same time, they told Li Mazi''s sworn brother to keep an eye on Yama''s Execution Ground.


    After everyone had left, Li Mazi''s sworn brother gave me the de.


    I carefully looked at the de and discovered that the craftsmanship was exquisite. It should be a katana that Japanese people used in their everyday life.


    The katana was around one meter long and had a slightly curved body. The edge was extremely sharp, and it was covered in marble-like decorative patterns. It seemed that high-quality, reinforced steel had been used to forge the katana.


    This katana likely originated from Yama''s Execution Ground.


    As expected, there were some bloodstains on its tip.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother asked me, "How did you know that there would be blood on the de? Also, whose blood is that?"

 Chapter 15: Snake-Fostering Blade

    Chapter 15: Snake-Fostering de


    I faintly smiled and said, "It''s ghost blood."


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother was so scared that his face paled. "Ghost blood? It''s my first time hearing that ghosts have blood too."


    "You''ll understand this evening..."


    After saying that, I returned the de. "Now, follow my instructions and soak this katana in urine for one hour. Then, wipe it and return it to Yama''s Execution Ground. I need to get clues on the background of this thing!"


    Li Mazi asked with a smile, "Little Brother, since youre so rxed, does it mean that you have the confidence to deal with this matter?"


    I shook my head. "It''s not that I''m confident, its just that this de isn''t too dangerous. In ancient times, dangerous swords all had the ability to drink blood. For example, the treasured saber of Yang ''Blue Faced Beast'' Zhi in [Water Margin], which had the ability to kill a thousand people without leaving a single drop of blood behind. It''s not that those people didn''t bleed, but that the de drank it all. On the other hand, this katana doesn''t have the ability to drink blood. As such, it shouldn''t be too troublesome to deal with..."


    Li Mazi and his sworn brother heaved a sigh of relief.


    Then, I told Li Mazi''s sworn brother to get me three uniforms, the type worn by police officers. Also, some realgar powder and strong liquor.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother asked me, "Why do you need this stuff?"


    I replied, "You don''t need to bother about that. Just make sure to get it."


    After seeing the katana, a n had already started forming in my mind.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother went to prepare and came back around two hourster, bringing three police uniforms with him. He was seemingly acquainted with someone working at the police station, and he simply borrowed the uniforms after giving them a call.


    Night gradually fell.


    The vige was especially lively at this time because everyone knew that the vige head had invited over a great master to ferry the soul of the dead worker.


    I left the vi and decided to take a closer look. I was curious about the background of this great master.


    But, after looking at the great master, I was rendered speechless. The person that hade over was a Daoist priest wearing a yellow robe, with the only problem being that this Daoist priest didn''t look like a real one.


    Although his equipment was really goodhe had a peach-wood sword and an eight-trigram mirror with himhis beard was obviously fake. Other than that, he had a protruding beer belly and would burp every few steps.


    There was no way this man had any real skill.


    However, the vige head seemed to hold this Daoist priest in high esteem. It was to the point that he would treat his farts as imperial decrees.


    Li Mazi asked me, "That guy isn''t nning to steal everything inside Yama''s Execution Ground, right?"


    He felt that as long as the Daoist priest asked, the vige head would instantly hand him all the things on the execution grounds.


    I said with a smile, "Don''t worry. Something fun will happen in a while."


    The Daoist priest prepared the altar and grabbed his peach-wood sword, starting to jump around like a monkey.


    Then, he made a Daoist hand seal, as well as an orchid fingers gesture. I felt likeughing after looking at him. It was crystal-clear that this guy had no skills and was just cheating vige people out of money.


    Once hed jumped around for a while, the Daoist priest suddenly stopped and said, "Bold evil spirit! You dare to bring harm to the people of this vige, huh? Look at how this poor Daoist gives you a lesson!"


    Then, he jumped into the big hole that led to Yama''s Execution Ground. After a long while, he crawled up, looking exhausted. He was now holding a katana in his hand, the same one that Li Mazi''s sworn brother had soaked in urine.


    "I''ve found the culprit." The Daoist priest threw the katana to the ground. "Everything thats happened was the fault of the spirit attached to this sword! The spirit was a butcher in its previous life. Later, they carelessly fell into that big cauldron while working, getting boiled to death. As such, the spirit has been looking for a scapegoat that could take its ce since then. However, you no longer need to worry. This poor Daoist has already destroyed the spirit."


    The vigers burst into cheers, and the vige head also came over, saying words of praise and stuffing money in the hands of the Daoist priest.


    Nevertheless, the Daoist priest waved his hand and said, "Money is of little value for this poor Daoist. If you really want to thank me, please let me have all the items inside this Yama''s Execution Ground. That way, I can slowly purify them."


    The vige head said with a nod, "Of course, thats no problem."


    Li Mazi got anxious and pinched my arm. "If everything falls into the hands of that guy, wouldn''t our trip here have been in vain?"


    I said, "Don''t worry. That Daoist priest won''t be taking anything away."


    Li Mazi looked at me in puzzlement, but after seeing how calm I was, he didn''t speak further and kept looking at Yama''s Execution Ground with rapt attention.


    Just as the vigers prepared to go down there and retrieve the items for the Daoist priest, I saw the body of the Daoist priest start shaking slightly, his expression bing one of pain.


    At some point, even his teeth started chattering.


    The vige head asked curiously, "Great Master, is something the matter?"


    The Daoist priest didn''t reply. He tilted his head and quietly gazed at the katana on the ground. His current expression was the same as the corpses that had hung on the iron hook.


    Atst, he bent down and grabbed the katana, raising it high.


    The vige head was somewhat surprised. He patted the shoulder of the Daoist priest and said, "Great Master, are you performing some ritual?"


    The Daoist priest suddenly raised his head and looked at the vige head, smiling weirdly.


    Then, he said hoarsely in a voice that didn''t even resemble that of the Daoist priest, "Baka!"


    Immediately after, he raised the katana and shed at the vige head.


    The vige head was scared out of his wits and scrambled away. Still, it didn''t seem as though the Daoist priest was going to spare him. He held the katana in his hand and shouted something we didn''t understand. However, Id already guessed that it might be Japanese.


    The vigers were dumbfounded. They hadn''t expected that the respected great master would suddenly turn hostile. A bunch of youngsters stepped forward to break up the fight.


    But, the Daoist priest seemed to have gone crazy and had gained superhuman strength. Although there were 3-4 people trying to hold him down, they still failed.


    After a short while, hed already injured several people. Screams arose from all around, and the vigers scattered in all directions.


    Li Mazi was delighted. "Little Brother Zhang, are you a deity or something? Is this the ''fun thing'' you were talking about? How did you foresee this turn of events?"


    I said with a smile, "Wouldn''t you also be pissed if you got soaked in urine for one hour?"


    I was afraid that things might be too serious, and it would definitely be a problem if someone died. Therefore, I sent a message to Li Mazi''s sworn brother, telling him to find a way to sprinkle the realgar powder on the katana.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother held down the Daoist priest with the help of several other people, and seized this opportunity to sprinkle a whole packet of realgar powder on the katana.


    The Daoist priest slowly stopped struggling and fell onto the ground, starting to foam at the mouth.


    After seeing that the situation was far from rosy, the vige head lifted the Daoist priest and left the ce, clearly dejected.


    I heaved a sigh of relief and lit a cigarette.


    Once everyone had left, Li Mazi''s sworn brother came over, sweat dripping down his face. He asked, "What do we do now?"


    After experiencing this matter, hed realized that there was always a mountain beyond a mountain, and a man beyond a man.


    I smiled and pinched the cigarette butt. "Let''s go. It''s time for us to take action!"


    After saying this much, I quickly changed into a police uniform, telling Li Mazi and his sworn brother to do the same.


    Although the two of them had no idea what I was nning, they still did as they were told.


    I picked up the katana and coldly said, "This katana is definitely something thates from Japan. However, Japs left several decades ago. How is it possible for one of their swords to suddenly appear in China?"


    Li Mazi and his sworn brother looked at each other, not knowing how to exin this situation.


    I sighed and said, "Forget it. Some day in the future, this katana will return to Japan, its native country. It just so happens that the cherry trees on Mount Fuji should also be blossoming around this time of the year."


    Next, I wiped the realgar powder off the de and wrapped it in a cloth, returning home with the other two.


    Once back, Li Mazi and his sworn brother looked at me in puzzlement, not saying a word.


    I cautiously ced the katana on the tea table and said, "I''m sure you have a lot of questions, right?"


    Li Mazi said with a nod, "Not only do I have a lot of questions, but my brain is also in shambles. Little Brother, don''t keep us in suspense. Quickly tell us about the origin of this katana. What''s its rtionship with Japanese people?"


    I smiled and nodded.


    Actually, this de wasn''t an ordinary katana.


    It was the de that Japanese soldiers used whenmitting harakiri, the so-called ''Snake-Fostering de''.


    The reason I concluded that it was used tomit harakiri was the blood on its tip.

 Chapter 16: Yamas Army

    Chapter 16: Yama''s Army


    Japanese warriors had a stringent code of honor, and they wouldmit harakiri once the battle was lost. At the time of their death, they would be filled with grief and unwillingness, which would leave strong resentment on the de that theyd used tomit suicide.


    This resentment wouldve slowly disappeared had the de been left in an open space. However, if it was left in a dark and gloomy basement where the sunlight never shone... not only would the resentment remain, but it would grow stronger and start to absorb the ''ghost blood'' around to preserve its existence.


    This so-called ''ghost blood'' was actually snake blood.


    Among underground creatures, snakes possessed the strongest nourishing properties. As such, the katana ended up ''forcing'' snakes to offer it their blood so that it could keep fueling its resentment.


    The resentment would keep getting stronger as time passed by, and if the item was one day unearthed, it wouldnt be surprising if it started killing people!


    In this case, the main target of the item would be the Chinese. After all, those Japanese soldiers that hadmitted harakiri back then definitely hated China and its people.


    When Id used that rat to test the waters, it was also to determine if there was strong snake-type resentment in Yama''s Execution Ground. After all, other than cats, rats were afraid of snakes the most...


    Moreover, everything Id said in front of that big hole before was for the katana to hear.


    The police uniforms we wore gave us an aura of ''authority'', which was enough to intimidate the de. Then, I said that I would return it to Japan, ying both the good cop and bad cop roles. I wanted to let it know that I wouldnt harm it, and that I would also bring it back to its country.


    After all, the katana had umted all this resentment because it was unable to return to Japan, even after its death.


    Once Id told the duo about this, Li Mazi and his sworn brother almost prostrated themselves before me in admiration, saying several words of praise. Of course, what they truly wanted to know was the worth of the katana in renminbi...


    I hesitated a little since it was hard to exin.


    A Snake-Fostering de such as this would definitely be in high demand in Japan. After being exposed to the ''way of the warrior'' for several thousand years, Japanese people deeply respected soldiers that hadmitted harakiri in battle. For them, this sword was like a national treasure, and no matter how high the price, they would pay it.


    However, the problem was, we were in China right now. It wasn''t going to be easy to find a Japanese buyer.


    After I told them how things stood, the duo nodded, looking in deep thought.


    At this time, Li Mazi''s sworn brother asked, "Anyway, why did the Snake-Fostering de appear in Yama''s Execution Ground?"


    When I heard that question, Iughed. That ce wasn''t any Yama''s Execution Ground. It was just an underground base that Japanese soldiers had used in the past.


    After invading China in 1937, Japan had created two units thatmitted many crimes against humanity. These two units were very famous, and their names were known all over the world.


    The first unit was called Unit 731, which was tasked with testing biological and chemical weapons, and also carrying out human experimentation on Chinese people. The number of people they harmed was countless.


    The other unit was known as Yama''s Army. Their main task was to catch the members of the Communist Party and torture them until theyd gotten a confession.


    However, the Eighth Route Army wasposed of unyielding men, and it wasnt easy for the Japanese forces to pry information out of them. This caused the Japanese torture experts to be at their wit''s end.


    As such, Japan created the so-called ''Yama''s Army'', a unit that specialized in torture, and whose objective was to let people feel the maximum degree of pain. Perhaps they didnt do this only to collect intelligence, but also to satisfy their perverted hobbies.


    Anyway, whenever the Japanese army chanced upon a tough nut, they would send them to Yama''s Army.


    This unit had a deep understanding of the tortures techniques used in China in the past 5000 years, and they also had brutal torture devices at their disposal.


    Theyd even replicated stuff that was only mentioned in myths like seas of fire, mountains of des, huge boiling cauldrons, the eighteenyered hell, and so on. Everything was conducted in order to induce a mental breakdown in the prisoners.


    I guessed that this Yama''s Execution Ground might be one of the bases the unit had used in the past.


    Later, as Japan was defeated and forced to retreat, the members of Yama''s Army knew that they wouldn''t have a good ending. As such, they allmitted harakiri.


    After I finished telling the story, Li Mazi and his sworn brother were dumbfounded. Then, Li Mazi stood up and said angrily, "Yama''s Execution Ground must be blown to pieces! Something like that shouldn''t be allowed to exist!"


    I said, "We can''t blow up the basement. It''s better to report its existence to the government and let the people there handle it. Japanese people have always been arrogant, and theyve never felt regret for the crimes theyvemitted. On the contrary, they even messed with textbooks, saying that something of the sort never happened when they invaded China back then. Now that this ''Yama''s Execution Ground'' has been unearthed, its very existence will be a p to their faces."


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother said that he was willing to donate this stretch ofnd so that it could be used to build a memorial hall to remember the victims of the Japanese army.


    I nodded, satisfied.


    However, there was something else worrying Li Mazi''s sworn brother. "Those other devices in the basement... are they haunted as well?"


    I told him, "You don''t need to worry about them. The reason those devices looked weird was the resentment of the katana. Now that the katana has been brought away, theres no more resentment, and the devices in the basement are just pieces of junk."


    This was also the reason Id focused on the katana since the very beginning, instead of the other devices.


    After telling Li Mazi''s sworn brother all this, I prepared to leave the vige.


    However, that guy was still worried and said, "Won''t I meet with disaster if Yama''s Execution Ground suddenly causes another ruckus? Please, stay here for a few more days."


    I had no other choice but to promise him that Id stay for another day. Wed quietly leave the vige tomorrow evening. After all, we didn''t dare to leave in broad daylight since the vigers here weren''t too friendly when it came to outsiders.


    The night passed quietly, and Yama''s Execution Ground didn''t give any trouble. Everyone heaved a sigh of relief.


    The next day, early morning.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother went out, curious to see how the vige head would deal with that fake Daoist priest.


    But, when I saw that fellow return with his head hung in dejection, I guessed that things might not have gone as hed hoped.


    Sure enough, Li Mazi''s sworn brother told us that the execution grounds were dead silentst night. This was something that had never happened in the past, and all the vigers thought that it was the work of the Daoist priest.


    After listening, I couldn''t help butugh. Had society already degenerated this much? People with real skills were often neglected, while trash that could only resort to tricks were put on pedestals.


    I didn''t feel like lowering myself to the level of that Daoist priest. Moreover, hed already gained the trust of the vige head. If we were to suddenly make our appearance, wed be only harming ourselves.


    I studied the Snake-Fostering de for a whole day, wondering how I could deal with it.


    Although realgar powder could temporarily suppress it, the effect was bound to get weaker as time passed by. The resentment attached to it wouldn''t disappear unless the de was returned to Japan.


    Would the people in my circle be able to help me with this matter...?


    Therefore, I spread the news in the antique circle, hoping to quickly find a buyer. Moreover, the buyer had to be Japanese, and it was best if they could return to Japan in the shortest time possible.


    After returning to Japan, the resentment of the Snake-Fostering de should gradually disappear.


    Once the sky had darkened, Li Mazi''s sworn brother started his car and drove us out of the vige.


    While driving, he told us, "Ive already contacted the association in charge of finding proof for the crimes perpetrated during the Japanese invasion. Specialists wille over as soon as possible and remove the devices found in Yama''s Execution Ground."


    I nodded my head. Hopefully, the people of the association would be able to find proof of the crimes perpetrated during the invasion.


    The problem wasn''t that a crime had beenmitted, but that they refused to admit to it. As if that wasn''t enough, theyd even left the task of finding proof to the victims.


    I respected Japan''s way of the warrior, but I didnt respect the behavior of their government.


    Just as I was in deep thought, Li Mazi''s sworn brother suddenly screamed.


    His sudden scream gave me a fright. I asked him, "What''s the matter?"


    That fellow shook his head and said, "It''s nothing. Just now, I felt as though something stung me. Perhaps it was an insect."


    After seeing that he was alright, I rxed and took a nap with Li Mazi in the backseats. This Yama''s Execution Ground had troubled us quite a bit in the past few days, and I was exhausted.


    Then, in my sleep, I faintly heard Li Mazi''s sworn brother say, "No one will be able to get away..."


    Later, when I opened my eyes, I was scared out of my wits because I discovered that wed returned to the house of Li Mazis sworn brother. Wed never left the vige!


    Moreover, I felt dazed, just as if someone had drugged me.


    Still, I had no idea why Li Mazi''s sworn brother had abruptly decided to drive us back yesterday...


    I went to wash my face to regain some rity, and then I woke up Li Mazi and his sworn brother.


    The two of them had no idea what had happened yesterday. This made me uneasy because things weren''t as simple as they seemed.


    Then, I recalled that Li Mazi''s sworn brother had said something like [No one will be able to get away...] back then.


    So, I asked him, "Do you remember saying No one will be able to get away yesterday?"


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother shook his head and said, "I don''t remember anything about it. I only remember that I was driving when I suddenly felt drowsy and fell asleep..."


    My face darkened. It seemed that this matter regarding Yama''s Execution Ground had yet to end. Had the Snake-Fostering de managed to influence us?


    After recalling the Snake-Fostering de, I became anxious and quickly asked, "Wheres the katana?"

 Chapter 17: Spirit Sword

    Chapter 17: Spirit Sword


    Li Mazi said, "Perhaps we just left it in the car?"


    I rushed out of the room and looked at the ck car parked in the distance, my heart beating wildly. The doors were wide open, and my sixth sense was telling me that the Snake-Fostering de wasn''t there anymore.


    Sure enough, I wasnt unable to find the Snake-Fostering de even after rummaging through the whole car. The only thing I found was a puddle of blood where the sword was originally ced.


    As I looked at this puddle of blood, I was dumbfounded.


    After carefully inspecting the car, I discovered that the doors had been twisted as if something had bumped into them with great strength. However, I didn''t find anything else worth noting.


    Li Mazi and his sworn brother also ran over, asking, "Did you manage to find the Snake-Fostering de?"


    I sighed and said, "I couldn''t find the Snake-Fostering de, but I did find this puddle of blood."


    Li Mazi was stunned. "Is the Snake-Fostering de on its period? Is that why it leaked blood?"


    Although he was just joking, his words gave rise to terrifying waves in my heart.


    Had the blood reallye from the Snake-Fostering de? If that was the case, I couldn''t deal with this item anymore...


    Whenever an otherworldly item started bleeding, it meant that theyd be a spirit, and in the case of this katana, it had be a spirit sword.


    In this line of work, ordinary otherworldly items, and otherworldly items that had be spirits, were in twopletely different leagues. No matter how wicked, an ordinary otherworldly item would only be able to scare people and cause some slight damage. However, if the same otherworldly item became a spirit, it could even kill people!


    I still couldn''t believe that the ordinary-looking Snake-Fostering de had given birth to a spirit.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother had an ugly expression on his face as he asked, "What happened?"


    I smoked three cigarettes in a row, and then said, "Quickly head back. Also, close all the doors and windows. If I''m not mistaken, something big will happen tonight..."


    Li Mazi and his sworn brother were terrified, but I didn''t have the time to manage them. I took the lead and rushed back into the house, tightly locking every window. Then, I thoroughly searched every room to make sure that the Snake-Fostering de hadn''t secretly sneaked into the house.


    Seeing me this anxious, Li Mazi''s sworn brother was terrified. Then, when I calmed down a little, he seized the opportunity to ask, "Little Brother, just what the hell is going on? Didn''t we already subdue the Snake-Fostering de?"


    So, I briefly exined to him how the Snake-Fostering de mightve be a spirit sword. At the same time, I told him that the reason wede back was also very likely rted to the spirit sword.


    Theplexion of Li Mazi''s sworn brother became even uglier, and he couldn''t say anything for a while.


    Li Mazi grabbed his hair and asked, "What do we do now?"


    Li Mazi was still a merchant of antiques, and he was aware of how dangerous spirits could be.


    I forced a smile and said, "It seems that we''ll have to stay in the vige for a few more days."


    But, strangely enough, nothing really happened during the first night.


    I heaved a sigh of relief and told Li Mazi''s sworn brother, "Take a stroll around the vige to see if anything strange has happened. If someone has died, notify me as soon as possible."


    After Li Mazi''s sworn brother had left, I fried some eggs to quell my hunger.


    But, just as I started eating, I discovered that there were traces of blood on the peephole of the front door. My whole body shuddered, and I almost dropped the te.


    Since I didn''t want to rm Li Mazi, I didn''t immediately tell him about it. I waited until he went to the bathroom to carefully observe the blood on the peephole.


    The blood was sticky and rtively fresh. It seemed like it was left there yesterday night.


    After looking through the peephole, I could only see a stretch of red. I picked up a napkin and used my trembling hands to clean the traces of blood from the peephole. Then, after making sure that there wasn''t any left, I returned to the living room.


    My mind was in a mess. I knew that the blood had been left there by the spirit swordthat sword was showing us its power.


    I could already imagine the scene where a spirit sword covered in blood was pasting its face onto the peephole in the dark, sneering andughing at us. Perhaps we were nothing but food in its eyes...


    I wasn''t yet sure what kind of shape the spirit sword had taken. Perhaps it had taken the shape of a person, or maybe an animal or a monster. But, regardless of the shape it had taken, I was sure it could easily kill us!


    In the past, my grandfather had told me that one could rely on their nose to tell how dangerous a spirit was. The potency of the stench they emanated, the more dangerous the spirit was.


    The blood Id wiped away reeked even worse than the fish wed just brought back. It was a sign that this spirit was full of grievances!


    Li Mazi walked out of the bathroom and saw my cloudy face. He asked, "What happened? Did you recall another bad matter?"


    I endured and didn''t say anything. I didn''t want to make him have a mental breakdown.


    The both of us sat in the living room, waiting for Li Mazi''s sworn brother to return. That fellow returned at noon, gasping for breath.


    Seeing his flustered look, I knew that something had happened in the vige.


    Sure enough, Li Mazi''s sworn brother told me that something very strange had taken ce in the vige. Earlier in the morning, a viger discovered that Old Wang''s livestock had been killed. Hens, ducks, and even the old sow had died. In addition, theyd died very tragically, losing a lot of blood. The scene was enough to make one''s scalp go numb.


    The husband and wife of the Wang family were also missing. Their phone was unreachable, and even the team that the vige head had put together was unable to find them after searching all morning.


    At this point, it was certain that the Snake-Fostering de had be a spirit!


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother was terrified as he asked me, "What do we do next? If this continues, all the vigers will die."


    It was rather clear now why the spirit sword had brought us back yesterday. It wanted to take care of the whole vige.


    I took a deep breath and then suddenly recalled that Daoist priest. As such, I asked Li Mazi''s sworn brother, "Given the character of the vige head, he mustve invited that great master again, right?"


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother sighed and said, "Were unable to contact that great master. He either set out for a long journey or secretly ran away."


    I felt that thetter possibility was more likely.


    I said sternly, "The current situation is extremely serious, and I need the whole vige to help me. Therefore, my identity must be made public..."


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother hesitated. "Little Brother, it''s not that I don''t believe you, but you look too young. ording to TV shows, people like you are still rookies, and the vige head believes that only older people can be great masters. If you make your identity public, you might obtain the opposite effect and get driven out of the vige."


    I said, "That''s something easy to handle. In a while, Li Mazi and I will pretend to pass through the vige and disy a few tricks. Thatll be enough to gain the trust of the vigers."


    Following that, I told my n to the duo, and both of them agreed.


    Then, just as Id said earlier, I brought Li Mazi with me and swaggered toward the vige.


    As soon as we made our appearance, the vigers blocked us. They looked at us vigntly and asked, "Who are you? Why did youe here?"


    I pretended to be some kind of expert and sighed. "Last night, I observed the heavenly bodies in the sky and discovered that a bloody disaster had befallen your vige. Therefore, I came here to see what kind of evil thing was causing trouble."


    After hearing my words, the vigers were way more respectful. They told us to wait a moment, saying that they would call the vige head over.


    The vige head, a skinny old man, quickly came over. He wore a white headband and seemed rather unfriendly.


    I smiled faintly and clutched my hands. "The people in your vige are surely brave! I mean, you dared to unearth the execution grounds of the King of Hell, Yama. Actually, not only that... because you even let the great monster that had been imprisoned there for the past thousand years run away! Now, it seems like youre suffering retribution for it, huh? Without my help, more and more people will die in your vige."


    After Id said this much, both the vigers and the vige head were stunned.


    I knew about Yama''s Execution Ground, and I even knew that someone had died in the vige. They subconsciously started to treat me like an immortal that had descended from the sky.


    The attitude of the vige head made a 360-degree turn, and he started treating me as a diety. He asked, Small Immortal, whats the deal with that Yama''s Execution Ground?


    With that question, I was able to use all the information at my disposal to make up a story.


    "ording to legends, there are four people that have served as the King of Hell. These four people are Han Qinhu; a famous general of the Sui Dynasty, Kou Zhun; prime minister of the Song Dynasty, Fan Zhongyan; the poet, and Bao Zheng; the righteous. These four would take turns and serve as the King of Hell at intervals of ten years. This Yama''s Execution Ground was built by ''Bao the Righteous'' to lock up a powerful monster. Now that you have unearthed the execution grounds, the beast sealed inside has naturally escaped, causing the people and livestock in your vige to be struck by bad luck..."


    The vige head was stunned. After recovering, he quickly invited me to the vige and offered me food and drink.


    Once Id finished eating, he narrated everything that had happened in the vige with an embarrassed expression on his face.


    After hearing the story, I pretended to be worried and said that the thousand-year-old monster wasn''t easy to deal with.


    The vige head begged me for help repeatedly, saying that he was willing to pay any price.


    I pondered for a moment and said, "If you want to deal with that thousand-year-old monster, the whole vige has to work together."


    The vige head immediately agreed to my request.


    Afterward, I told him to bring me to Old Wangs house. I needed to get an idea of what exactly killed the family and livestock...

 Chapter 18: The Man-Eating Giant Python

    Chapter 18: The Man-Eating Giant Python


    After everything that had happened, two young vigers were now guarding Old Wang''s house.


    I entered the house and found dead hens and ducks lying everywhere. The animals had copsed to the ground, their feet already stiff.


    I casually grabbed a hen and inspected its body.


    However, except for two small holes, I didn''t find anything worth noting.


    As for those two small holes, had they been left behind by the bite of an animal? I hesitated a little and then asked the vige head, "Can you get me some milk? It would be best if it''s breast milk."


    The vige head was stunned. "What do you want to do with that?"


    I borated, "If you bring me breast milk, I can identify the monster that attacked."


    The vige head immediately sent someone to look for the breast milk. After a short amount of time, they came back with a bottle full of milk. I opened the bottle and poured the breast milk on the wound of the dead chicken.


    Smoke started to rise from the two small holes, and the dead hen started to struggle.


    The vige head, as well as everyone else there, were scared out of their wits. They retreated slowly with their eyes fixated on me, theirplexions pale.


    The hen struggled a bit more before it stopped moving.


    However, I was even more worried now because these domestic animals had been infected with a poisonous bacteria. If they weren''t properly dealt with, a gue would spread throughout the vige.


    Therefore, I told the vige head, "Go fetch some petrol and burn the bodies of these domestic animals. Moreover, you have to burn them thoroughly, only stopping when the bones are left. Next, soak those bones in an earthen jar filled with vinegar, then bury everything underground. For one year, don''t let the vigers or the livestock get close to the bones; otherwise, something terrible might happen to your vige."


    The vige head had already been scared out of his wits, and every word I said was like a bolt from the blue.


    Soon after, I went to check the bedroom of the Wang couple. The room was a mess, with clear signs of a struggle.


    I found the neighbor and asked, "Did you hear anythingst night?"


    The neighbor said, "I had indeed heard voicesst night. At first, it was the barking of dogs and the crowing of hens. Then, Old Wang shouted something like, what''s that?!. Afterward, there was only silence."


    Since he was too scared, he didn''te out to take a look.


    I nodded and asked the vige head, "Have you checked the surrounding areas already? Did you find any traces of the Wang couple?"


    The vige head replied, "Weve searched everywhere."


    I shook my head. It seemed that the Wang couple had met with disaster...


    Then, we headed toward Yama''s Execution Ground. Since everything had started from there, perhaps I could find some clues inside.


    But, once we arrived at Yama''s Execution Ground, the scared vigers refused to go down there with me.


    Since there was no other choice, I was forced to tie a rope around my waist and drag Li Mazi down with me. Then, I repeatedly told the vige head to pull us out if things got dangerousin short, dont stop until were out!


    The vige head nodded in agreement.


    Honestly, I was also scared to enter such a ce. As for Li Mazi, he was even more afraid than me. He clung to me so tightly that I could even hear his heartbeat.


    The execution grounds were as scary as always. The gloomy ambiance, the iron hooks, cauldrons, and straw cutters made it ten times more terrifying.


    Once I recalled that a workers corpse was found hanging on one of the iron hooks just a couple of days ago, I didn''t dare to raise my head and look in that direction.


    Moreover, ever since wed entered, I felt as though something was staring at us and following us like a shadow. Even after some time had passed, the feeling lingered. From the looks of it, the spirit sword was hiding in the basement, watching our every action with yful eyes...


    Unfortunately, we failed to find any clues even after strolling through the execution grounds for a while. I felt somewhat disappointed and was preparing to leave the ce with Li Mazi when I subconsciously nced toward the entrance.


    There, I saw something refracting the light.


    I rushed over and discovered that it was a puddle of water. The thing refracting the light was actually water.


    However, I found that puddle of water rather strange. As such, I switched on my shlight and observed it carefully.


    What surprised me was that I found two scales in the water. The scales were damaged, but they should be the scales of a snake.


    Was it possible that the spirit sword had taken the shape of a snake?


    But, where did this watere from...?


    I stood up and told Li Mazi, "I know where the Wang couple is."


    Then, I crawled out of the hole and asked the vige head, "Are there any rivers nearby?"


    The vige head nodded and said, Theres indeed a small river in the area.


    Since time was of the essence, I urged him to lead the way and bring me to the small river.


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother volunteered. "That river is a little far from here. How about we take my car?"


    I nodded and headed toward the river by car, alongside the vige head and Li Mazi. At the same time, we urged the remaining vigers to find some means of transportation and reach the small river as soon as possible.


    The river wasn''t big, but it was very deep. Based on the tall concrete on both sides, it was probably a man-made waterway.


    The vige head exined, "The stream of the Yangtze River deviates here to deal with the water shortage in the vige."


    I asked, "Since this is a man-made waterway, there must be arge dam, right? As such, if something falls into the river, the dam should block it, correct?"


    While the vige head was in deep thought, Li Mazi''s sworn brother added, "That''s correct. Theres arge dam downstream. Are you saying that the bodies of the Wang couple are there?"


    I immediately had Li Mazi''s sworn brother bring us to the dam to take a look.


    When we arrived at therge dam, we discovered that it was closed. Although the river was wide, the surface was filled with domestic waste and waterweeds. Even if there was a corpse here, it wouldn''t be easy to find.


    I said to the vige head, "The bodies of the Wang couple should be underneath the waterweeds.


    The vige head had a headache. "I''ll call over a specialist and have them fish out the bodies."


    However, I immediately stopped him. Since the bodies were here, the spirit sword should be here as well. If that thing ended up injuring someone in the water, things were going to get troublesome.


    Therefore, I quickly thought of a solution. "Vige head, is it possible to open thisrge dam? No need to open itpletely. It''s fine as long as you let some of the water out. Since the bodies are hidden beneath the waterweeds, theyll be noticeable if the water flows out."


    The vige head made a phone call.


    Before long, the dam was opened, and the river water started to noisily leak out.


    I gazed at the surface of the water without blinking, waiting for the bodies to be visible.


    Sure enough, five minutester, I heard Li Mazi shout, "There they are!"


    I looked ahead and saw that two white bodies had resurfaced, looking like rubber balls.


    But, even if wed managed to discover these bodies earlier, we wouldnt have been able to tell if they were the Wang couple.


    Their faces had dposed, and their limbs were bloated. As if that wasn''t enough, they were covered with mucus. The scene was utterly disgusting, and some of the vigers even started puking.


    The vige head was baffled. "How did the bodies of the Wang couple deteriorate to this point in a single night? It doesn''t make any sense!"


    I was also baffled. Nevertheless, I put on some gloves and went over to inspect the mucus covering the bodies.


    After a long while, I said, "This is gastric juice..."


    The vige head looked at me with a strange expression. He had no idea what I meant.


    I exined, "Something swallowed the Wang couple whole, melted them with gastric juices, and then spit them out. That''s why the two bodies became like this."


    The people at the site gasped.


    Li Mazi hurriedly asked, "What kind of creature has the ability to swallow them down at once, and then spit them out like that?"


    I pondered for a moment. "Do you remember the scales I found at the entrance of Yama''s Execution Ground? If I''m not mistaken, those should be the scales of a python."


    "A python?" Li Mazi was confused. "Are we really getting led around by the nose by a python?"


    I forced a smile. "It''s a very special python."


    I turned around and asked the vige head, "Vige head, has arge python appeared in your vige before?"


    The vige head shook his head. "No, never."


    I said, "It seems that we''ll be very busy tonight! Vige head, send a few youngsters out to go and catch snakes. The more they can catch, the better. Also, it would be best to prepare a pile of rats as well."


    The vige head asked, "Why do you need snakes and rats?"


    I replied, "I can''t exin it in just a few words. You''ll know tonight."


    The vige head brought along a bunch of youngsters and went to catch snakes.


    As for me, I went back to the house of Li Mazi''s sworn brother. After returning, I decided to rest and told Li Mazi''s sworn brother to buy as much realgar powder as possible.


    Li Mazi sat right beside me, worried sick. I was unable to sleep because of his uneasiness. But, to preserve as much energy as possible, I closed my eyes.


    After some time, Li Mazi woke me up. "The sky is dark, and the vige head and the others are waiting for you outside the vi."


    I said, "Very well. Let''s go to the river bank to hunt monsters!"

 Chapter 19: Luring the Tiger Away From the Mountain

    Chapter 19: Luring the Tiger Away From the Mountain


    The young men of the vige had reunited outside the vi. They had sickles, hoes, and even shotguns with them. Needless to say, they were awe-inspiring.


    I warned the vige head, "Women and children must stay at home tonight. Tell them to keep the windows and doors shut. No matter what happens, they mustnte out or open the doors and windows."


    Then, I led the army of vigers toward the small river, ready to engage in war.


    There were some por trees by the riverside and strong wind. The moon hanging in the sky had been half covered by dark clouds, and the overall visibility wasn''t high.


    I told the vigers to ce the snakes and rats on the ground. After that, I drew a circle with realgar powder right next to the riverside and set up a bonfire in the middle.


    In the meantime, the vigers went to pick up dry branches and fetch gasoline.


    After dividing up the work, I told everyone to rest far from the bonfire. The n was to wait until midnight and then take action.


    ording to my guess, the python was nearby, and the goal was to catch it by surprise when the time came!


    To be honest, I wasn''tpletely sure if the spirit sword and the giant python were the same entity. After all, no one had ever seen its real appearanceit was just a guess Id made based on the clues Id found.


    Moreover, there was something else bothering me... where had the Snake-Fostering de gone? I was sure that the giant python had taken it away, but where had it concealed it? After all, it couldn''t keep it on its person.


    If we failed to find the Snake-Fostering de, things wouldn''t end even if we managed to get rid of the spirit sword. Sooner orter, the Snake-Fostering de would umte more hatred and continue to harm people.


    I looked at my watchit was almost midnight. I brought the vigers with me and arrived beside the bonfire, starting to throw the snakes into the fire.


    The snakes started to burn amidst the mes, exploding like firecrackers.


    At the same time, I nced at the rats in the cage, who were still calm.


    Honestly, I felt bad for putting so many snakes to death, but since the lives of the vigers were at stake, I could only endure.


    The snakes that didnt burn to a cinder crawled away from the bonfire, but the circle of realgar powder forced them back.


    At this time, it felt as though the vigers were attending a festival. Theydpletely forgotten what fear was, and all of them were running to the bonfire to throw the snakes into the fire. Some even raised their torches and held them on the bodies of the snakes, happily watching as the animals hissed and shed the burnt skin.


    Li Mazi squatted beside me and asked, "Isn''t this going too far?"


    I forced a smile. "Just endure! In the future, we wont meddle in simr matters again. Too much bad karma."


    "Why are we even doing this?" Li Mazi asked.


    I exined, "Snakes are social creatures, and among the ones gathered here, there are definitely some that are the descendants of the giant python. Therefore, the python won''t be able to sit by and do nothing."


    Li Mazi finally understood. "I see. In that case, what about the rats? Do you want to burn them as well?"


    I said, "No need for that. Rats have an inborn fear of snakes, and they can feel their presence from afar. As such, they will start panicking as soon as the giant python approaches."


    Li Mazi pondered aloud, "Were lucky that you thought of this n. Still, although weve almost burned all the snakes, the giant python has yet to make its move..."


    After hearing his words, I was taken aback. "What? Weve burned all the snakes we captured?"


    Li Mazi nodded. "Can''t you smell it? The scent of burnt snakes has filled the whole ce. You need to burn a lot of snakes to reach this level."


    I turned my head and looked around, my face immediately darkening.


    The vigers seemed to be at a party,ughing and throwing snakes into the fire.


    Out of the initial two hundred, only a dozen or so snakes were left. The few survivors hung their heads in dejection, aware of the fate that awaited them.


    Before long, I realized that there was something wrong. Even though things had reached this point, the giant python still hadnt made its move... did it mean that wed been searching in the wrong ce all along?


    Or perhaps... the python was already in the vige, harming people!


    When that thought shed through my mind, my face paled. I yelled, "Stop, stop immediately! Give your family members a call and ask them if theyre safe!"


    The vigers were somewhat annoyed when I interrupted their fun, but when they heard me mention the vige, they snapped out of it. They took out their phones and called their rtives back at the vige.


    However, none of the calls got through, not a single one!


    I didn''t hesitate and ran toward the vige.


    Only women, children, and the elderly were left back at the vige. If the giant python attacked, the consequences would be unimaginable.


    Along the way, the call of a viger finally managed to get through. However, the guy started sobbing right after hanging up.


    I asked him, "Hey, what''s the matter?"


    The viger said in a trembling voice, "My wife... she said that a Japanese soldier appeared in the vige and started killing people!"


    "What? A Japanese soldier?" I took a deep breath. "From where did this Japanese soldiere from?"


    "I don''t know, but that''s what my wife said. She told me that theres this man holding a de and wearing the uniform of the Japanese army. The des the same as the one we found in Yama''s Execution Ground! I have to go back! My son is still in the house!"


    I urged the viger to get in the car of Li Mazi''s sworn brother and head back to the vige with us.


    Along the way, he kept calling his wife to get updates on the situation.


    The more he listened, the more his expression turned into one of fear. "It''s over... my wife said that the vige has been flooded, and several houses were knocked down by the water. It''s definitely the python retaliating against us. It''s over..."


    I was stunned. "Where did the watere from?


    Then, I looked at Li Mazi''s sworn brother in puzzlement. "Wasnt your vigecking water to the point that you had to deviate the stream of the Yangtze River?"


    Li Mazi''s sworn brother was speeding on the road, his forehead full of sweat. "Perhaps it''s groundwater?"


    I shook my head. "It shouldn''t be. How can groundwater suddenly shoot up and flood the whole vige?"


    As we approached the vige, we saw stagnant water on the road. From the looks of it, the ce had indeed been flooded.


    When we reached the entrance, the water had already reached the wheels of the car, and things were just going to get worse as we proceeded forward.


    Since we couldn''t go by car, we had no choice but to go on foot.


    I was eager to discover where that Japanese soldier holding the Snake-Fostering de hade from who would have thought that the Japanese still had soldiers on Chinese soil even decades after their defeat!


    When we passed Yama''s Execution Ground, we discovered that the water in the huge pit was bubbling. The ce seemed like it was the origin of the flood.


    After strolling through the vige, we didn''t see a Japanese soldier. I heaved a sigh of relief. There was a chance that the wife of the viger had been so scared that shed started seeing things.


    But, right at this time, Li Mazi''s sworn brother tripped in the water.


    He called out, frightened, "There seems to be something beneath my foot, something soft!"


    However, before we could react, around a meter from us, the surface of the water started churning and exploded upward like a geyser. The strong waves made it impossible for us to stand our ground.


    I firmly gazed towards the geyser, waiting to see what would drill out of the water.


    In the next moment, I opened my eyes wide in shock.


    Standing in front of me was unexpectedly a Japanese man in uniform. He had a tall build and was holding the missing Snake-Fostering de in his hand.


    Despite the shock, I urged Li Mazi and his sworn brother, "Quick, climb on the roof of a house!"


    But, just as I took a few steps, a long shadow lying beneath the water whipped at me. I was caught off guard, and the huge force sent my body flying upside down and crashing into the wall of a nearby house.


    Warm blood spurted out of my mouth after the impact.


    When I took another look, I discovered that Li Mazi and the others had also been whipped around.


    In the next moment, the Japanese soldier dashed toward me, and it was right at this time that I discovered the secret behind it!

 Chapter 20: The Mysterious Man

    Chapter 20: The Mysterious Man


    The Japanese soldier wasn''t a living person, but a statue made of brass stuck on the head of the giant python.


    The head of the giant python was smooth and t, with a rtivelyrge mouth. Its small eyes were emitting red light, and coupled with its long tongue, it made one''s scalp go numb.


    "Little Brother, run!" Li Mazi shouted.


    At this time, hed gotten a shovel from God knew where and was hitting the head of the giant python with it.


    The giant python swung its tail again, knocking Li Mazi away and creatingrge waves.


    For fear that it might eat Li Mazi, I quickly climbed on the roof of a house and started hurling broken tiles at the snake.


    My attempt to enrage it was sessful. The python left Li Mazi alone and rushed in my direction.


    I was somewhat surprised while looking at the giant python. People said that one should hit a snake seven inches below the head to kill it, but the ce seven inches below the head of the python was protected by the statue of the Japanese soldier. It had no weaknesses.


    As the giant python got closer and closer, I started to get anxious.


    In the end, I had no other choice but to jump down from the roof.


    However, the snake wasn''t stupid, and it swiftly surrounded the house, its eyes filled with killing intent.


    Just as Id reached a dead end, a cold voice echoed in my ears. "Come over here."


    Suddenly hearing this voice gave me a fright. I looked in the direction the voice hade from and saw a tall and slender figure leaning against the wall of the courtyard. The figure was holding a long, blue-colored scabbard.


    It was a man with very pale skin wearing a loose Kumamon t-shirt.


    He had an oval face and a vacant look in his eyes. He resembled the ''national husband'' Song Joong-ki[1] from the TV series Descendants of the Sun.


    However, if one looked carefully, they would notice that his vacant eyes were filled with strong killing intent!


    I was surprised after seeing the sword in his hand. It was unexpectedly an eight-faced Han sword forged during the Han Dynasty, and it was possible to tell from the exquisite scabbard that it was the real deal and not a fake.


    If one wanted such a sword, the price on the market was definitely over 1 million renminbi[2].


    Nheless, I found it hard to believe that someone was using collectibles as weapons in the current year.


    "W-who are you?" I asked with a stutter.


    "Someone that can save you." The voice of the man was as cold as a perennial iceberg. "Theres no time, quicklye over."


    I wasn''t sure why, but I felt as though I was rted to this person. He felt like a long lost friend, someone that wouldnt hurt me.


    Therefore, I subconsciously ran to his side.


    At the same time, the door burst open, and the hideous head of the giant python came inside to take a look.


    But, right at that moment, I heard the sound of a sword being unsheathed. The man wearing Kumamon''s t-shirt disappeared from where he was standing, and the next time he appeared, the long sword had already left a deep wound on the head of the giant python.


    He was so fast that I was rendered speechless. I couldnt understand how hed been able to run over there, draw his sword, and sh at the snake, all in less than a second.


    The giant python hissed due to the sharp pain, quickly shrinking its head back.


    The man wearing Kumamon''s t-shirt followed after it. However, he didn''t attack this time around. He instead pointed his hand toward the giant python and chanted a pleasant-sounding incantation.


    The incantation seemed to be filled withpassion. It was somewhat simr to Buddhist incantations, but also different at the same time. It was my first time hearing it.


    In the next moment, a miracle took ce. The giant python, whod been angrily swinging its tail around just a moment ago, gradually calmed down. Then, it obediently nuzzled its head underwater and stopped moving, just like a meek pet.


    After a short moment, its body sank into the water as though it had died.


    The man wearing Kumamon''s t-shirt sighed faintly, bowing toward the giant python. Afterward, he dug out its eyes and put them in his pocket, leaving with his sword on his back.


    From beginning to end, he didn''t say another word to me.


    Only after hed disappeared amidst the flooded vige did I return to my senses. I wanted to ask him what his name was, but it was toote now.


    At this time, the remaining vigers also came over. Seeing that the giant python was dead, they all heaved sighs of relief.


    As for the vige head, he went to open the sluice gates of the dam to deal with the water flooding the vige.


    After everyone had left, Li Mazi, his sword brother, and I inspected the body of that giant python ''wearing'' a Japanese soldier on its head.


    I didnt understand why the members of Yama''s Army stationed here in the past had given the giant python such strange headgear. In addition, how had the snake survived for so long?


    With the help of Li Mazi''s sworn brother, I took the statue off the head of the python. Soon after, we made a rather disgusting discovery. Due to prolonged contact between the brass and the skin of the snake, the head of the python had developed countless tumors.


    I was someone who suffered from trypophobia, and after seeing the various tumors, some of which were semi-transparent, I couldnt help but throw up.


    After the flood was taken care of, we searched Yama''s Execution Ground and found arge hole inside. Therge hole was man-made, and there were a lot of human bones inside.


    My guess was that Yama''s Army had once used the hole to deal with the corpses of the prisoners. The bodies of the prisoners were likely cut to pieces and then fed to the giant python.


    The huge hole was connected to the small river outside, hence the reason for the flood.


    After dealing with Yama''s Execution Ground, I told the vige head the truth.


    Once hed heard my exnation, the old man quieted down. After a short moment, he said, "My parents were also killed by Japanese soldiers. Back then, I was ying outside the vige and managed to escape death by sheer luck."


    He also confirmed that arge number of Japanese soldiers hadmitted harakiri in this ce in the past.


    At the same time, he guaranteed that he would report everything that had happened to the government and have them deal with this matter.


    As for me, I took the Snake-Fostering de and left.


    It was unknown whod leaked the news, but the next day, a Japanese man came to my shop. He imed to be someone from the Japanese embassy and wished to buy the Snake-Fostering de at a high price. The price he offered was, in fact, several times higher than the market price.


    Nevertheless, he would only buy the Snake-Fostering de on one condition. We had to forever forget about this matter rted to Yama''s Execution Ground.


    I sneered and refused. Merchants were greedy, but that didn''t mean that they had no integrity.


    Did he really think that a little bit of money was enough to buy ones dignity?


    In the end, the matter rted to Yama''s Execution Ground ended up in the newspapers, and even foreign reporters covered the news. Due to international pressure, the Japanese embassy was forced topensate the vige, and the director of the embassy privately bought the Snake-Fostering de, guaranteeing that he would learn from this lesson.


    In the end, we sold the Snake-Fostering de for 3 million renminbi[3]. Li Mazi, his sworn brother, and I received 1 million each.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Song_Joong-ki


    2. Around 140,000 USD.


    3. Around 425,000 USD.

 Chapter 21: Human Bones Necklace

    Chapter 21: Human Bones Ne


    After this matter came to an end, I gained a little bit of a reputation in the antique circle. It was likely because Id managed to subdue the Snake-Fostering de, albeit being very young.


    As the saying goes: Fame portends trouble for humans just as fattening does for pigs.


    Sure enough, sudden fame brought me a lot of unnecessary trouble.


    For example, the next item I would have to deal with was the Human Bones Ne.


    After getting my share of money from the transaction of the Snake-Fostering de, I decided to make a trip to Sanya and live like a king there. However, possibly because I wasn''t very used to having this much money, I didnt even spend 20,000 renminbi[1] after a week of vacation.


    So, I decided to head to Europe to dispel my worries and improve my mood.


    But, before I could even book the tickets, I received a call from Li Mazi.


    On the other end of the phone, Li Mazi continually asked me where I was, saying that he had a big, big job for me. ording to him, I would make so much money afterpleting this job that I wouldn''t have to worry for the rest of my life.


    Seeing that hed found me another job, I didn''t think twice before hanging up.Sigh, Li Mazi is truly greedy. Couldn''t he stay quiet and enjoy life for a few days?


    The Snake-Fostering de had left me traumatized, and I wasn''t nning on dealing with any otherworldly items for the next year or two.


    However, Li Mazi didn''t give up and called several more times.


    In the end, I had no choice but to cklist his number. It was the only way I could find some peace.


    The next day, early morning.


    Id just washed my face and was nning to leave the hotel to join a tour group for my trip abroad when someone knocked on the door.


    I thought it was the hotel''s housekeeper and went to open the door without the slightest bit of worry.


    But, when I opened the door, I saw Li Mazi, as well as several other men in ck suits, standing at the entrance. Needless to say, I was dumbfounded.


    I didnt tell anyone about my trip to Sanya. As such, how did Li Mazi know that I was chilling here? It only took him one night to travel thousands of kilometers and reach South China from the northernmost part of the country!


    Also, whats the deal with those men in ck suits behind him?


    Before I could say anything, one of the men asked, "May I ask if youre Mister Zhang Jiulin?"


    I gulped. These men didn''t seem like good news.


    From beginning to end, Li Mazi wore a pained expression on his face as though he dreaded them.


    "I''m not Zhang Jiulin, youve got the wrong person!" I red at Li Mazi and prepared to close the door.


    However, Li Mazi blocked the door with his foot, and caught betweenughter and tears, said, "Little Brother Zhang, how can you do nothing when you see someone in danger?! These men are looking for you, and they ended up giving me a hard time because of you!"


    "Are you saying it''s my fault?" I gazed at Li Mazi with a wrathful look. "I don''t even know who they are."


    "Mister Zhang, our boss would like to do business with you," one of the men said. "Please, make a trip with us."


    Li Mazi smiled apologetically. "Brothers, don''t be impatient. Let me clear up the situation first."


    Li Mazi pushed me into the room and closed the door behind him.


    I grabbed a flower vase that happened to be in the room of the hotel and red at him. "Li Mazi! You actually dared to ruin my trip! You better have a good exnation; otherwise, don''t me me for breaking your head with this thing!"


    Li Mazi retorted, "Little Brother, youre truly heartless! Those guys couldn''t find you, and they decided to take me as a hostage instead. I went through all this trouble because of you, and you want to beat me up on top of that?"


    I felt that this matter was way moreplicated than what it seemed. As such, I ced the vase down and asked Li Mazi to tell me the whole story.


    It turned out that yesterday afternoon, just as Li Mazi was preparing to close his shop and head home, those men in ck suits surrounded him, put a gunny sack on his head, and threw him inside a Lamborghini. After that, they said that they were looking for me because they had an important job for me.


    Seeing how scary those men were, Li Mazi had thought that they were my enemies and refused to talk. As a result, he was beaten up without mercy. In the end, he couldn''t bear it anymore and dialed my number.


    "Anyway, those guys are pretty incredible. They were able to discover that you were in Sanya just from the position of your phone. Then, that very same night, they forced me to take the ne ande over..." Li Mazi still had some lingering fear.


    I finally understood what was going on, but a headache followed. "Who do these guys work for? They look very mysterious."


    Li Mazi said, "Their identity isn''t that simple. From the looks of it, their boss isn''t a high official from the government, but someone from the underworld."


    I nodded, deep in thought.


    Since they were extending an olive branch, it would be improper to refuse. As such, I ended up epting the offer to meet their mysterious boss.


    Finally, they brought me to an entertainmentpany in Shenyang. The internal decorations of thepany were very extravagant, and the ground floor was filled with wax statues of famous international stars.


    In addition, I remembered that the logo of thispany had appeared at the beginning of several movies.


    Those men in suits brought us to a room and said to wait. After that, they turned around and left.


    It was my first time seeing such avish ce, and likewise for Li Mazi. We both felt somewhat ufortable.


    Around ten minutester, an enchanting woman wearing a mini-skirt entered the room. She wore a smile on her face as she sat in front of us.


    I was taken aback.Is this beautiful woman their mysterious boss?


    "Nice to meet you, Mister Zhang. I''m Boss Zhou''s secretary, and I''m here to discuss the details of this job with you. Boss Zhou is still recuperating in the hospital. Therefore, I hope that youll forgive him for noting in person."


    "Ahaha, we understand, we understand." Li Maziughed while greedily eyeing the big, white chest of the opposite party.


    The beautiful woman continued with a smile on her face, "In that case, let''s get straight to the point. Boss Zhou wishes to make a group of people famous, but thepany is currentlycking in resources, and were unfortunately unable to achieve this goal. As such, we wanted to ask for Mister Zhang''s help."


    After hearing her exnation, I was dumbstruck.They want to hire me to make a group of people famous?


    But, how am I supposed to do that? Im not a manager or an agent!


    So, I half-jokingly said, "You might as well tell those people to kill me. Thats definitely the fastest way to be famous!"


    The secretary burst intoughter. "Mister Zhang, you sure have good humor. Anyway, youre the expert here, and you''ll understand everything after youve finished looking through the files I have."


    The woman in front of us looked beautiful, regardless if she smiled or frowned. Li Mazi was already drooling, and my heart was beating wildly.


    However, I did my best to suppress these distracting thoughts and calmly took the files.


    As soon as I saw the words ''Human Bones Ne'' while reviewing the material, I gasped. Now it was clear why theyd asked for me...


    The Human Bones Ne was a very powerful otherworldly item.


    ording to the rumors, the ne was made from the skulls of newborn babies strung together. Moreover, these newborn babies had to be exactly three-months-old; not one day older nor one day younger.


    The main ability of the Human Bones Ne was to increase the user''s poprity. No matter how ugly one was, people would start liking them as soon as they put on the ne.


    This type of ne was in great demand in the world of entertainment.


    For example, there was this singer in Hong Kong that couldn''t find sess no matter how much thepany tried to promote them. But, as soon as they put on the Human Bones Ne, their poprity skyrocketed. No matter how terrible their songs or movies were, the audience would go and throw their money at them.


    Many media outlets had covered this news, saying that the audience had been secretly bought. However, the singer kept getting more and more popr.


    There were several other simr examples.


    Unfortunately, there were very few Human Bones Nes on the market, and the price one had to pay to make use of them was very high. For example, the users would often end up poor and lonely in old age, go insane, or evenmit suicide by jumping from a building.


    However, since people in the entertainment world only cared about fame, these side effects weren''t even worth mentioning.


    So, this entertainmentpany wants to use the Human Bones Ne to make someone famous... but, arent they afraid of the powerful bacsh of the ne?


    Once I was done, I returned the files to the secretary. "I''m sorry, but it''s too difficult to find a Human Bones Ne. This request exceeds my capabilities, I can''t help you!"


    1. Around 3000 USD.

 Chapter 22: Murder Case in Hong Kong

    Chapter 22: Murder Case in Hong Kong


    The secretary smiled. "Mister Zhang, you don''t need to find one. We know about your skills, and we only want you to make a trip to Hong Kong and appraise a Human Bones Ne that we already have. You only have to determine if the item is genuine or not. The item is rather expensive, and we dont wish to be cheated."


    I trembled. "You... found a Human Bones Ne?"


    The secretary nodded, her chest also moving up and down.


    I furrowed my brow. "I only have to appraise the item?"


    "Yes, that''s the only thing you have to do."


    "Fine," I said. "It seems I can''t refuse your offer."


    I was just a small merchant of antiques, and there was no way I could pick a fight with a huge entertainmentpany. I still wanted to keep running my shop after this matter was over!


    "I''ll give an ount of the situation to my boss. If everything goes ording to the n, we''ll set out for Hong Kong tonight. Also, its a pleasure doing business with you," said the beautiful secretary before leaving.


    Li Mazi kept staring at her back and long legs as she exited the room, returning to his senses only after a while.


    I lit a cigarette and muttered, "Li Mazi, I feel that things aren''t as simple as they appear..."


    Li Mazi wore a dirty smile on his face. "It doesn''t matter. I''ve just met my goddess, and even if she wants me to be part of a Human Bones Ne, I''m willing! Oh, right. What the hell is a Human Bones Ne?"


    I patted his belly and asked, "Do you like eating stir-fried intestine with vegetables?"


    Li Mazi was confused by the sudden question but still nodded. "Now that you mention it, I feel a little hungry."


    I continued, "You see, the Human Bones Ne also likes to eat human intestines, especially if freshly extracted from the body."


    Li Mazi was scared out of his wits, and even his face turned pale. "Little Brother, youre joking, right?"


    I said sternly, "I''m not joking. That''s why I told you that things aren''t as simple as they appear. The Human Bones Ne is an extremely dangerous item."


    Li Mazi kept silent and stared at the table in front of him in a daze.


    Then, he patted my shoulder and said, "Little Brother, don''t worry. Even if you die, I''ll make sure to burn paper money as an offering to your soul every New Year''s day. Take care!"


    He then stood up and prepared to leave.


    I immediately blocked him. "Where do you think youre going?"


    "Home!" said Li Mazi. "My son is waiting for me, and those guys were looking for you, not for me."


    At the same time, the door was pushed open, and the beautiful secretary said, all smiles, "Mister, you can be at ease. The members of ourpany have already picked up your son, and theyre serving him delicious food as we speak."


    "Is that so?" Li Mazi did a 180-degree turn. "I really feel relieved if thats the case..."


    Then, he obediently sat by my side. He also knew that he wouldn''t be able to get away today.


    The secretary continued, "It''s about time. If we set out now, well still have time to catch thest flight for Hong Kong."


    I looked at her, perplexed. "Youreing with us?"


    The secretary nodded. "Yes, I''ll be in charge of your everyday life during this trip."


    Afterward, she made the necessary arrangements, and we went straight to the airport.


    Along the way, we discovered that the name of the secretary was Yin Xinyue. She was previously an actress, but was now working as the private secretary of a CEO. Shed given up on her acting career.


    As for how shed gone from a third-rate small actress to bing the secretary of a CEO, I could probably write a book about it.


    After arriving in Hong Kong, we prepared to spend the night in a hotel.


    Yin Xinyue said, "We''ll rest today and go to appraise the item tomorrow. I''ve booked the room next door. Feel free to give me a call if you need anything."


    Once shed left, Li Mazi asked in a low voice, "What did she mean by ''need''? What if its a ''physiological need''?"


    I replied, "I don''t know. Why don''t you give her a call and ask?"


    Li Mazi hesitated for a while, but in the end, he didnt call.


    After dealing with the Snake-Fostering de, Id seemingly gotten used to the feeling of danger and didn''t have trouble sleeping. I soundly slept until dawn.


    On the contrary, Li Mazis eyes were all swollen when he woke up. I asked out of curiosity, "Hey, what''s the matter?"


    He suddenly burst into tears. "I really miss my wife..."


    Sigh, this guy is really hopeless...


    As we finished eating breakfast, Yin Xinyue knocked on the door, entering the room alongside another man.


    The man, who wore a smile on his face, shook hands with us and introduced himself. "Hello, I''m the leader of the special investigations force of Tsim Sha Tsui Police Station, Song Longji. You can just call me Aji. It''s a pleasure to work with you."


    I was dumbfounded.Whats a police officer doing here? Is this a movie shooting or a treasure-hunting reality show?


    Yin Xinyue said with a smile, "Let''s sit down and talk."


    Song Longji sat down and opened his briefcase, taking out some files and cing them in front of me. "Mister Zhang, these are the records of the police station. You can take a look to get a rough understanding of the situation."


    I was still confused and had no idea what was going on.


    Yin Xinyue exined, "We need your opinion on this matter. We wish to know if this case is rted to the Human Bones Ne."


    Atst, I understood what was happening.They didn''t invite me here to determine if the Human Bones Ne is genuine or not... they want me to find the Human Bones Ne after looking at the case!


    I was furious and cast the records aside, saying coldly, "Miss Yin, this isn''t what we agreed upon!"


    Yin Xinyue didn''t get angry and kept a smile on her face. "Mister Zhang, didn''t you agree to appraise the Human Bones Ne for us?"


    Are you trying to juggle with words now?!


    I knew that Id been tricked. I could only quietly pick up the records and take a look.


    After reading the files, I was shocked. I lit a cigarette to ay my fear.


    The case was about a series of suicides, and the way the victims had died was rather bizarre. All of them had cut their bellies open and pulled out their intestines before their deaths.


    Still, a case where people were pulling out their intestines wouldn''t be enough to connect it to the Human Bones Ne.


    However, some very strange matters took ce after these people had died, and this was what had attracted the attention of the entertainmentpany.


    First Case: The street cleaner of a certain residential area had died in their rented apartment. The cause of death was rather strange as the intestines had been pulled out of the victim''s body. ording to the autopsy, the intestines had been boiled in hot water after getting extracted, and then swallowed again by the victim.


    Second Case: The employee of a certain express deliverypany didn''te to work for three days.


    On the fourth day, a strange package was delivered to thepany, and the mailer was none other than the missing employee. After opening the package, the staff found a piece of intestine inside. Thepany sent someone to look for the courier, and that''s how they found the body. Once again, the cause of death was intestines getting pulled out of the body. ording to the traces left at the site, the employee had pulled out their guts on their own and then mailed them to thepany.


    Third Case: A university student in the Tsim Sha Tsui district was found dead on Valentine''s Day in their dormitory room. Again, the cause of death was intestines getting pulled out of the body. The six-meter-long intestine was still attached to the body andid out on the ground in the shape of a heart.


    ording to the investigators, the victim hadmitted suicide and thenid out the intestine in the shape of a heart.


    Once I finished reading the records, I shivered and broke out in a cold sweat.


    Even if one ignored the victims suddenly pulling out their intestines and only concentrated on what had happened after the deed, the whole situation was still suspicious as hell!


    It wasmon knowledge that a person would die within two minutes after their belly was cut open due to the excessive loss of blood.


    As such, how had those people managed to do all those things within two minutes?


    For example, thoroughly boiling their intestines in hot water and swallowing them would take at least ten minutes.


    As for wrapping up the intestines and sending them by mail... let alone the time spent, did the victim go to mail the package while covered in blood? No one noticed anything amiss?


    Finally, as forying out the intestines in the shape of a heart... was that person trying to be artistic?


    I was momentarily at a loss and didn''t know how to proceed.


    So, I asked Song Longji, "Aji, what does Hong Kong''s police force think of these cases?"

 Chapter 23: Witchcraft

    Chapter 23: Witchcraft


    "The official version is that it was a series of suicides, but our department believes that it might be the work of supernatural forces," Song Longji said, the expression on his face unsightly.


    I shook my head. "Nah, that shouldn''t be the case."


    Song Longji asked curiously, "Mister Zhang, whats your opinion on the matter?"


    I exined, "Someone is feeding the Human Bones Ne. If the Human Bones Ne is worn for a prolonged period of time, its effects will be greatly reduced. Therefore, to recharge the ne, one must feed it human intestines. In short... were dealing with three murder cases and not suicides."


    "Murder cases?" Song Longji looked at me, shocked. "Do you mean that it was a third party that made the victim swallow their intestines, sent the guts by mail, andid them out on the ground in the shape of a heart? But, we didnt find the fingerprints of a second person at any of the crime scenes! Don''t look down on our police force. Were very good at handling cases!"


    I said with a smile, "I believe in your police force, but there are things that not even science can exin."


    "Things that not even science can exin...?" Song Longji asked in puzzlement.


    "Yes. For example... witchcraft."


    "Witchcraft?" Song Longji seemed perplexed. The fact that I spoke in riddles probably gave him a headache.


    Yin Xinyue was perfectly calm as she gazed at me with a look of adoration. "Mister Zhang, what do you suggest we do next?"


    I said, "These cases indeed seem rted to the Human Bones Ne. However, there are several different kinds of Human Bones Nes. I''ll need to investigate the origin of the item first!"


    Yin Xinyue nodded, looking somewhat pensive.


    Before taking action, Song Longji reminded, "Youll be secretly cooperating with the police. Remember to keep a low profile."


    If there was a need, he could give us a hand and make things easier.


    I smiled and nodded.


    As per my request, we went to check the house of the street cleaner; the first person tomit suicide.


    I looked around, but the rented apartment seemed rather ordinary. There was just some furniture, and I found nothing suspicious.


    The victim had died in the kitchen, and the police had used chalk to outline the corpse. The posture of the victim was rather strange. The legs were wide open, and the arms were raised; the position of the body reminded one of the Chinese character ''''.


    Above the cooking stove was an iron pot, and the boiled intestines turned out to be still inside. The contents were greasy, and aside from the intestines, there were also stool and undigested food in the pot.


    The sight alone was enough to make me feel sick. Seeing my strange expression, Yin Xinyue also came over and nced at the contents of the pot.


    In the next moment, her face turned green, and she started vomiting. I patted her back and urged her, "It''s better if you wait for us outside."


    Yin Xinyue hesitated a little but finally agreed, shooting me a grateful nce.


    I picked up a nearbydle and used it to stir the contents of the pot. The things that had sunk to the bottom resurfaced, but even after taking a careful look, I didn''t find any clues.


    I said, "I''m going out to buy a few things."


    Song Longji suggested, "Isn''t it better if you send one of the police officers outside?"


    However, I declined his suggestion. The things I needed had to be up to standard, and someone that didn''t understand the situation might choose them incorrectly.


    I went to a nearby convenience store and bought two dying carps, some half-cooked oden, a carrot, a basket of eggs, and two pig bones.


    When I returned with all that stuff, Song Longji opened his eyes wide and asked, "What are you nning to do with those things?"


    Li Maziughed and replied, "Isn''t it obvious? He''s going to prepare a hot pot dish on the spot, using the stool as seasoning!"


    We didn''t expect that hed get nauseated by his own joke. He turned his head around and started vomiting.


    I ignored Li Mazi and lit the gas stove, stuffing everything Id bought into the iron pot and letting it boil.


    There were too many ingredients, and the pot was filled to the brim.


    Song Longji nced at the pot, and after hesitating for a short while, he quietly left the room. It seemed he couldn''t bear to see what I was doing.


    After Song Longji had left, Li Mazi asked me, "What are you doing? Are you cooking up some elixir that can nourish one''s body or prolong one''s life?"


    I grinned and replied, "I''m cooking for the dead."


    Li Mazi trembled. "C-Cooking for the dead? The dead can eat...?


    "You''ll know very soon." I didn''t have the time to manage Li Mazi. After the water in the pot started boiling, I grabbed the whole thing and went out.


    From beginning to end, Song Longji had his brows furrowed. However, he didn''t ask questions and opened the door of the police car, bringing us to the morgue where the body of the street cleaner was stored.


    Perhaps because everyday life was too stressful, Hong Kong was a city with a rtively high suicide rate, and the police had ced all suicide victims in the same morgue.


    For this reason, the corpse of the street cleaner wasn''t there alone, and several other suicide victims were lying beside it.


    Myplexion changed. "This won''t work. If we want to find out information about the Human Bones Ne, we must bring our victim to a separate room."


    Song Longji made a call and informed the hospital.


    However, the staff was also at its wit''s end; the morgue was already full. If we wanted a separate room, the only option was to head to the crematory.


    Since there were no other alternatives, I told Song Longji to contact the crematory and move the body there.


    When the corpse of the street cleaner was pulled out of the mortuary fridge, I carefully examined its belly.


    I discovered that there was a circr wound on its abdomen. From the looks of it, the victim had used a sharp and round object to sh its belly and cut it open.


    The autopsy only stated that the belly of the deceased had been shed open, and there were no other details. Maybe not even the forensic expert knew how to exin this situation.


    No matter how strong one''s willpower was, it was almost impossible to withstand the pain of having their belly shed open like that.


    I asked Song Longji, "Did you find traces of anesthetic in the body of the victim?"


    Song Longji shook his head. "No, we haven''t."


    I nodded and came up with a n in my mind.


    We quickly transported the body to the crematory, cing it in an isted room.


    I grabbed the pot and ced it beside the corpse, saying to Song Longji, "Don''t let anyone in until tomorrow morning. You can only enter after I give you permission!"


    Song Longji nodded. "I''ll tell the police officers to stand on guard."


    I suggested, "It''s better if you do it personally. This is something very important!"


    Song Longji agreed to my suggestion.


    Next, Li Mazi, Yin Xinyue, and I returned to our hotel.


    After returning to the hotel, we were ovee by boredom. As a result, Li Mazi and I decided to stroll through the city. Hong Kong was a bustling ce, and since we were already there, it would be a pity not to take a look around.


    I asked Yin Xinyue, "Do you want toe as well?"


    She didn''t hesitate and agreed. "Sure, I can even show you guys around."


    Outside of working hours, Yin Xinyue was rather likable and active. She talked endlessly as she told us about Hong Kong''s scenic spots. I felt like we werent only business partners but friends.


    And, maybe she also felt the same?


    It was regrettable that we couldnt get a taste of Hong Kong''s dishes. After everything that had happened today, we didn''t really feel like eating.


    We kept strolling until 10 PM and were dead tired by the time we got back.


    Yin Xinyue blurted out, "I-I''m too scared to sleep alone..."


    I suggested, "How abouting to our room? Li Mazi and I can sleep on the sofa, and you can sleep on the bed."


    Yin Xinyue readily agreed, and Li Mazi was obviously delighted.


    The next day, we headed to the crematory very early in the morning.


    Song Longji was sitting on a bench outside the morgue, fiddling with his phone. After seeing us, he got up and greeted us.


    I smiled and asked Song Longji, "Did you notice any strange movements in the morguest night?"


    The corners of Song Longji''s mouth twitched. "Why? Was there supposed to be any movement?"


    I gave him a meaningful nce andughed. Then, without bothering to exin, I told him to open the door.


    The interior of the morgue was as cold as before, and I couldn''t help but sneeze after entering.


    Song Longji turned on the lights, and the first thing I did was to look for the iron pot.


    I discovered that the pot Id carefully ced beside the body had been overturned, and the food inside was scattered everywhere.


    Upon seeing this scene, Song Longji was scared out of his wits. "I''m sure that no one entered this cest night!"


    Iforted him, "Yes, I''m aware."


    Yin Xinyue turned her face to one side as she couldn''t bear to look at the scene.


    I took out a pair of chopsticks and started to gather the food lying on the ground.


    Although the food was swollen due to staying in the pot for too long, I could still tell what it was.


    The two carps were still there, and the only difference were the holes in their bodies. It felt as if someone had poked through them with their fingers. The oden was there, the leaf vegetables were there, the eggs were there, and the pig bones were there as well.


    Song Longji pinched his nose and asked, "What did you discover from this scattered food?"


    I smiled and put down the chopsticks. "Haven''t you discovered that theres something amiss?"

 Chapter 24: So Uk Estate, The Dwelling of the Dead

    Chapter 24: So Uk Estate, The Dwelling of the Dead


    Song Longji furrowed his brows. "Not really."


    I said, "The carrot! Yesterday, I also put a carrot in the pot."


    Song Longji gaped. Then, after a long while, he looked at me and asked, "...I can assure you that no one entered this cest night."


    I smiled. "Yes, I know."


    "In that case... where did the carrot go?" Song Longji asked.


    I pointed at the corpse of the street cleaner. "It''s inside the stomach of the corpse. Do you want to dissect it and see?"


    Song Longji gulped. He felt nauseated and went to look for a trash can where he could throw up.


    "Mister Zhang, youre a man with great abilities, so I''ll just take your word for it. But, what does the missing carrot prove? That the corpse can still eat things?"


    I shook my head. "Human Bones Nes can be produced from many different kinds of materials, and one doesnt necessarily have to use the skulls of three-month-old infants. Cat bones, tiger bones, and rhinoceros horns can be used as well. As long as the level of negativity is enough, a Human Bones Ne will be born. Think about it, among these animals, which one likes to eat carrots the most?"


    Li Mazi said, "I really like to eat carrots. They increase body fluids, quench one''s thirst, nourish one''s skin, and even stimte the appetite!"


    I red at Li Mazi and said, "Who asked for your opinion? Shut up and go pull the carrot out of the corpse''s stomach!"


    Li Mazi felt like throwing up. "I can''t, it''s too disgusting!"


    Song Longji pondered for a moment and said, "Perhaps the rhinoceros?"


    I nodded. "Correct, the rhinoceros. This is why I believe that the raw materials used to produce this particr Human Bones Ne were rhinoceros horns. Among the animals I''ve listed, rhinoceroses are the one with thergest appetite, and also the ones with the strongest negative attribute! Eating the intestines of dead people is definitely not enough to keep up with its consumption of strength. This is the reason the killer decided to feed it living souls."


    Song Longji asked, "Mister Zhang, do ghosts really exist in our world?"


    I replied, "I''m not sure if ghosts do exist, but if certain conditions are met, it''s possible to give birth to strange phenomena or bestow supernatural powers upon an item. This is how our Human Bones Ne was born."


    Song Longji sighed, seemingly in deep thought.


    Once we got out of the morgue, Yin Xinyue came over and asked, "Did you discover anything?"


    I exined, "We unveiled the background of the Human Bones Ne. Now, the real search begins."


    Yin Xinyue brought us back to the hotel and made a call, telling me to update her boss on the situation.


    From beginning to end, it was just me talking. The person on the other end didn''t say a word.


    I cursed inwardly:This guys really arrogant, not even bothering to say a word!


    However, just as I was about to hang up, the person on the other end said hoarsely, "Thank you."


    His voice was rather strange. He sounded like someone at death''s door, but at the same time, the voice was very loud. I was quite confused.Perhaps, hes just a young man with a very hoarse voice?


    Li Mazi asked, "What do we do now? Where do we look for the Human Bones Ne?"


    I replied, "Do you guys know what Hong Kong''s scariest and most dangerous ''haunted'' ce is?"


    Li Mazi said without hesitation, "It''s Hong Kong''s countryside! The movie ''A Wicked Ghost'' also took ce in the countryside. That ghostdy really ruined my childhood."


    I continued, "Is there any other ce aside from the countryside?"


    Hong Kong''s countryside was too big, while I was looking for was a specific ce. Like somerge buildings in disuse with a high level of negativity.


    Yin Xinyue said, "I might know of a simr ce, the So Uk Estate. It''s a famous haunted ce in Hong Kong,parable to the Fengmen Vige in maind China."


    I urged Yin Xinyue, "Can you tell me more about this So Uk Estate? What makes it so special?"


    Yin Xinyue forced a smile. "You should just check online. It won''t sound that scary if Im the one telling you about it!"


    I was rendered speechless. It wasnt like I was looking for a thrill.


    Since Yin Xinyue was unwilling to talk about it, I didn''t force her and directly grabbed theptop.


    After a quick research, I discovered what kind of ce the ''So Uk Estate'' was in the eyes of Hongkongers. Just like Yin Xinyue had said, it was basically Hong Kong''s version of the Fengmen Vige.


    Strange things had never stopped happening since thepletion of the So Uk Estate in the 80s up until now. If one looked up the words ''So Uk Estate, strange happenings'' on Baidu, they would find more than 3 million results. The ce was definitely very famous.


    Most of the stories that had spread were about ghosts. ording to the stories, the abandoned buildings in the area were now the dwellings of the dead.


    Since after itspletion, the So Uk Estate had given birth to an endless cycle of death. Almost every month, someone wouldmit suicide by jumping off the buildings. Moreover, the majority of the deaths were concentrated around the Azalea House.


    It was said that the suicide victims refused to leave their dwelling even after their death, and many residents imed to have seen ghosts after sunset.


    No one had dared to live close to the ''Azalea House'' since then, and the story about the ce being the dwelling of the dead had spread far and wide...


    I smiled and pointed with my finger. "This is the ce! Were going to the So Uk Estate tonight."


    Li Mazi retorted, "Why are we going there? No one dares to go to that ce in broad daylight, let alone at night!"


    I said, "The owner of the Human Bones Ne has to find a ce with high negativity if they want to recharge the Human Bones Ne, and the So Uk Estate just happens to be such a ce! If were lucky, we might get the chance to meet the other party."


    Then, I turned toward Yin Xinyue. "Theres no need for you to go. You should call a few bodyguards and have them stand by and wait for orders in the hotel. If I manage to find the target, I''ll give you a call, and you can send the bodyguards over to chase after that person."


    However, Yin Xinyue shook her head. "No, if youre going, I''m going as well. It''s an order from my boss and also my duty. I have to guarantee your safety."


    I forced a smile.I wonder whos guaranteeing whose safety.


    Since she wanted to go, I could onlyply. Nothing bad would happen as long as we were a little careful.


    After having lunch, we headed to the So Uk Estate.


    The area was very big, filled with multi-storied buildings. However, the buildings weren''t in like in the past, and there was a thickmercial aura around them now. It seemed that theyd been renewed.


    Yin Xinyue said, "These buildings were built anew after tearing down the previous ones."


    I nodded, deep in thought.


    I had Li Mazi ask around if someone had died close to the Azalea Housetely.


    However, the residents would look at us vigntly each time we mentioned the name ''Azalea House'', and the first thing they asked was: Why are you asking us about that ce?


    We asked a few other people, but their answers were the same.


    They seemed to know that there was something strange about the Azalea House, but they didnt wish to share the details with us. In addition, they urged us not to go there.


    But, the more they acted like this, the more curious I became.


    Since the sky wasn''t dark yet, we seized the opportunity to visit the ce.

 Chapter 25: A Ghost Knocking at the Door

    Chapter 25: A Ghost Knocking at the Door


    Due to its bad reputation, the Azalea House had fallen into disuse. Although this was the case, the Hong Kong government had chosen not to tear the building down, and had instead left it to its fate.


    I raised my head and looked around. The building was full of cracks, and there wererge holes between the various floors. I was afraid that everything would just crumble down if a strong wind blew over...


    Once we were inside, we found ourselves in a hall filled with garbage and excrement. It seemed that people had been using the first floor as a public toilet. The stench was unbearable, and there were flies everywhere.


    We had no choice but to quickly head to the second floor.


    The second floor turned out to be even worse. The corridor was filled with rotting stray cats and dogs, with the corpses of other animals also lying around.


    Although it was daytime, the bodies of those animals made the ce look gloomy and dark.


    When we reached the third floor, things got a little better. There wasn''t any excrement or animal bodies, and we even found two cotton-wadded quilts.


    Yin Xinyue muttered, "Some beggars or homeless people probably live here..."


    The higher we went, the more deste the ce got. After going past the fifth floor, we didn''t find any traces of human activity.


    I could easily guess the reason. Those that hadmitted suicide by jumping off the building did so from the fifth floor or above. Therefore, no one dared toe here.


    The sun outside was setting, and the corridor was already pretty dark. Maybe the bad lighting had also contributed to making the Azalea House this gloomy.


    The current situation was outside my anticipations, and I was forced to cut out some of the unnecessary steps and told the others, "Look for a room without a bathroom."


    Yin Xinyue asked curiously, "Why are you specifically looking for a room without a bathroom?"


    I replied, "In these ces, the majority of the negative energy concentrates in bathrooms. Therefore, it''s rtively better if we find a room without one, lowering the chances of meeting foul spirits."


    Li Mazi was scared out of his wits. "A-Are you admitting that there are spirits in this world? Do you think well be able to meet one tonight...?"


    When wed dealt with the embroidered shoes, Blue Head, and Snake-Fostering de, while some strange things had happened, we hadn''t really met a ghost.


    This was the reason Li Mazi had such a big reaction.


    Maybe Li Mazi is afraid that hell lose face if it got out that hes a merchant of antiques that hasn''t ever seen a ghost...


    I shook my head. "The foul spirits I was talking about aren''t the same spirits youre thinking of. They arent necessarily ghosts and might just be evil spirits."


    "Evil spirits?" Li Mazi suddenly got curious. "What do you mean by that?"


    I had no time to bother with him and kept searching the ce. If we waited until it was too dark wed be at a disadvantage.


    In the end, Li Mazi shut his mouth, and we started to inspect the rooms on the fourth floor.


    Yet, all the rooms in the building were identical, and it wasn''t easy to find one that was different from the others. My n was to look for a storeroom or staffroom, both ces that shouldn''t have a toilet.


    But, the building had been abandoned before the various facilities could bepleted. As such, there were only rooms to amodate people.


    Luckily, we managed to find a public bathhouse on the eighth floor. The public bathhouse seemed to have been reconstructed some time after thepletion of the building. That was where we would be staying tonight.


    I heaved a sigh of relief and brought Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue downstairs to have a meal. My sixth sense was telling me that the Human Bones Ne would appear in this ce over the next few days!


    After going downstairs, we ate some shrimp-filled dumplings and bought a few things. Then, we returned upstairs.


    The door of the bathhouse was still intact, but the windows had been ruined. The three of us curled up in one corner and patiently waited.


    To avoid giving away our position, we didn''t even switch on the shlight.


    Yin Xinyue felt somewhat uneasy at first, but after Iforted her, she finally calmed down, with herplexion turning for the better.


    Nheless, she was still scared, and she tightly pressed her body against mine. After feeling her soft and warm body, I started to indulge in flights of fancy, and the primitive desire buried in my heart started to resurface.


    But, I quickly suppressed it. Now wasn''t the time to think about this stuff, we were in Hong Kong''s dwelling of the dead!


    The whole building was very quiet, and the bustling streets started to be deserted. The street lights also went out one after another.


    Earlier, themplights of the building in front would cast their light over here, but now, there was only darkness.


    I felt a chill in the air, and my back was covered in sweat. Yin Xinyue also reacted and leaned closer to me.


    Iforted her, telling her to sleep for a while.


    Yin Xinyue nodded andy in my embrace, looking sleepy.


    Li Mazi took out his phone and started to y mobile games.


    Nothing happened before midnight, which made me feel relieved. It meant that my choice had been correct.


    However, the calm didn''tst long. While I was attentively watching Li Mazi ying Tetris on his phone, I heard a sounding from the head of the stairs.


    I returned to my senses and patted Li Mazi''s hand, hinting at him to stop ying games.


    Li Mazi also heard the sounding from the head of the stairs and even forgot to blink.


    I shook Yin Xinyue to wake her up. Then, I pointed toward the head of the stairs, hinting for her to stay silent.


    Yin Xinyue listened carefully and subconsciously held onto my arm. "What... whats that sound?"


    I said, "It seems as if something is crawling on the ground..."


    Li Mazimented while shaking, "I recall that scene from the movie [Ju-On: The Grudge], the one where the ghostdy crawls upstairs with her face covered with blood..."


    I inwardly cursed Li Mazi''s eighteen generations.Great. Now, even Im afraid!


    The rustling sound didn''t stop, and it really felt as if something was crawling upstairs.


    The sudden noise had caused my heartbeat to speed up.


    Fortunately, that thing didn''t crawl toward the bathhouse and moved in the opposite direction after reaching the head of the stairs. I heaved a sigh of relief and whispered, "As long as you don''t make a sound, no one will discover that were here."


    "Rustle, rustle, rustle..."


    The rustling sound moved further and further away until it finally stopped. Then, the heart-stopping sound of a knock echoed.


    After the knock, there was silence. Around two or three secondster, a hoarse voice, gender unknown, asked, "Daughter, are you here?"


    Yin Xinyue clung to my arm even more tightly, shivering all over.


    I took her in my arms, gently patting her just as you would do with a baby.


    After the sudden noise, there was silence again.


    Then, the creeping sound continued. This time, it was moving toward the bathhouse!


    There was another knock, and that person repeated, "Daughter, are you here?"


    The other party seemed to be reiterating the same actions in front of every door.


    I was very anxious.Are we dealing with a human or a ghost?


    I didn''t really believe in ghosts. At most, I thought that some things were strange and hard to exin. Yet, when faced with such a situation, these thoughts couldnt help but run through my mind.


    I knew that the other party would knock on the door of the bathhouse sooner orter, and there was a chance we might get discovered. What to do in that case?


    The three of us were trembling like criminals waiting for their sentence.


    Atst, the creeping sound closed in on the bathhouse, and the familiar knocking sound echoed again.


    My heart almost jumped out of my chest as I stared at the door without blinking.


    Afterward, the hoarse voice echoed again, "Daughter, are you here?"


    We quickly covered our mouths, afraid of getting discovered.


    Just like the previous few times, after determining that there was no one in the room, the opposite party left.


    I heaved a sigh of relief.The other party didn''t discover us.


    Still, I felt that there was something wrong, but I couldn''t tell what...


    Li Mazi asked in a low voice, "How... howe it didn''t keep knocking on the other doors?"


    After Li Mazi had mentioned it, I realized that the other party had disappeared after knocking on the door of our room.


    What did that mean? Why did it stop knocking? Were we discovered?


    I realized that things might take a turn for the worse. I got up and looked at the door with rapt attention.


    The door was slowly pushed open with a creaking noise, identical to the one heard in movies.


    Then, a gust of cold wind blew inside the bathhouse, making me shiver all over. I fixed my clothes and grabbed a handful of royal salt.


    Royal salt was finely cut salt gifted to the Emperor in ancient times.


    If the other party was really some kind of evil spirit, a handful of royal salt would be enough to suppress its power, giving us a chance to escape!

 Chapter 26: False Alarm

    Chapter 26: False rm


    In the next moment, an old woman with disheveled hair peeked into the room. Her cloudy eyes looked at us with expectation, and her face was covered in wrinkles.


    Was she a ghost or a human?


    Li Mazi''s mind copsed, and he promptly sat on his butt, looking at the woman in a daze.


    "Have you seen my daughter?" the old woman asked.


    I shook my head. "No, we were just passing by."


    "Oh." The woman sighed, disappointed. However, she didn''t leave and entered the room.


    Her worn-out and dirty ck clothing shone under the starlight.


    Her legs were twisted, and her posture was bizarre. She was crippled.


    Yin Xinyue clung to me, gently pulling my clothes. She wanted me to leave this ce as soon as possible. Shed already given up on looking for the Human Bones Ne.


    I was also unwilling to stay in the same room as this woman that looked neither human nor ghost. As such, I quickly left with Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue as soon as she got out of the way.


    As we reached the head of the stairs, the woman suddenly shouted, "Stop! You guys, stop!"


    Hearing her hoarse voice scared us further. We rushed downstairs with our hearts beating like crazy.


    Even though wed already reached the sixth floor, her sharp voice still echoed in my ears. "Come back! I know that youve seen my daughter!"


    Only after arriving at the fifth floor did we heave a sigh of relief.


    Shit, that was too scary! Do ghosts really exist...?


    "Handsome guy, why don''t youe over and have some fun with me?" Just as I was catching my breath, an enchanting voice echoed in my ears.


    I looked in the direction the sound hade from.


    There, I saw a red-haired girl in revealing clothes winking at me. Her mouth was covered in blood, and her tongue was sensually licking her lips.


    The scene left me scared out of my wits.Whered this vampiree from?!


    I immediately pulled Yin Xinyue''s hand, running downstairs at full speed.


    "Handsome guy, let me drink some blood, just a little bit," the girl wailed.


    I turned my head to look at her again and discovered that shed pulled out a dagger, cut her wrist, and was starting to greedily drink her own blood.


    This scared me further, and I didnt dare to look back again.


    Just as we were running downstairs, we met a group of emancipated men with naked upper bodies. They had daggers in their hands, and thick white mist lingered behind them.


    The crowd jumped at us, seemingly nning to hack us to pieces.


    I could only grit my teeth and drag Yin Xinyue, who was sobbing, downstairs.


    Yin Xinyue looked especially weak and fragile at this time.


    I ran to the second floor and only then turned my head back. After seeing that they hadn''t caught up to us, I heaved a sigh of relief.


    On the second floor, we discovered that one of the rooms was lit, and there seemed to be a lot of people inside.


    I had no time to bother with them and just pulled on Yin Xinyue''s hand, continuing downstairs. But, when we passed by the room, I curiously nced inside.


    In the next moment, my scalp went numb. I saw a group of young men and women skinning a stray cat inside the blood-covered room. I could hear the wail of the animal and the happyughter of the group. Theirughter made me shake with fear.


    Just what kind of ce is Azalea House?!


    We ran and stopped only after reaching the streets.


    I was exhausted and gasping for breath. Yin Xinyue tightly held onto my arm, her face lifeless.


    I tried tofort her, "Don''t worry, everythings fine."


    However, Yin Xinyue swiftly burst into tears.


    I turned my head back and said, "Li Mazi, quickly call a taxi."


    However, when I turned around, I didnt see Li Mazi.


    I couldn''t help but furrow my brows.


    I grabbed Yin Xinyue. "Yin Xinyue, listen to me. I have to save Li Mazi. You call a taxi and leave this ce first. If I don''t call you back within half an hour, tell Song Longji toe here and save us, got it?"


    Seeing that I was nning to leave her in the streets alone, Yin Xinyue panicked and jumped into my embrace. "Don''t leave me! I''m afraid..."


    I said helplessly, "You have to be strong. Li Mazi is still trapped inside Azalea House. If I don''t go back and save him, he might die..."


    Then, I ran back to Azalea House without looking back at Yin Xinyue.


    I was dead tired, but Id been quick-witted enough to prepare ahead of time. I held a handful of royal salt in my left hand, and a hunting knife in the right one.


    Then, just as I was preparing to storm into the ce, I heard Li Mazi''s crying from the first floor.


    "Ouch, my foot seems broken!"


    I was happy that the situation wasnt as bad as Id expected. I mustered my strength and entered the building, grabbed Li Mazi, and brought him outside.


    After seeing us, Yin Xinyue was overjoyed. She ran toward us and hugged me tightly.


    I furrowed my brow and asked, "Howe you haven''t called a taxi?"


    Hong Kong was full of taxis, and it shouldn''t take that long for one to arrive.


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. "None of the drivers were willing toe to Azalea House. They hung up as soon as they heard the name."


    With this being the case, I could only support Li Mazi as we slowly headed back to the hotel.


    Along the way, Li Mazi scolded me nonstop, saying that I put hoes before bros and that I only had eyes for Yin Xinyue.


    If he hadn''t been quick-witted enough to slide down a pipe, he mightve died in Azalea House.


    By the time we got back to the hotel, it was already 4 AM.


    The experience had scared us to death, and we were all exhausted.


    Iy on the bed and stared at the ceiling, deep in thought.Of all the things wed seen in the building, what was real and what was fake? Were they humans or ghosts...?


    But, even after pondering it for a while, I wasn''t able to make sense of the situation. I felt that I was too deeply involved in the matter.


    As the saying goes: Those involved in the affair were easily confused, while onlookers see everything clearly.


    I carefully recalled everything that had happened, and aside from making a good impression on Yin Xinyue, I got no harvest from this trip. We found no clues whatsoever about the Human Bones Ne.


    Yin Xinyue had already fallen asleep and was still tightly holding my arm.


    Iy on the bed and kept thinking until dawn.


    Around 7 AM, the hotel''s staff sent over breakfast. I woke up Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue and told them to eat.


    Once wed finished breakfast, Song Longji came over. "How did things go? Did you make any progress?"


    I didnt know what to tell him.Would he believe me if I told him that wed met a ghostst night?


    However, Li Mazi didn''t seem to be of the same mind. He spiced up the story, gloating about how brave hed been and how hed escaped with his life. He was trying to act cool in front of Yin Xinyue.


    After hearing the story, Song Longjiughed loudly, which left us puzzled.


    Song Longji exined, "I thought youd already investigated Azalea House, but you guys actually went there while knowing nothing."


    Song Longji told us that the people we metst night weren''t ghosts, but all kinds of different Hongkongers.


    The red-haired girl was a famous figure around the So Uk Estate. She was a crazy woman that believed drinking blood could lead to Heaven.


    Therefore, she would hang around Azalea House every night and seduce men, using her body in exchange for their blood.


    Azalea House was awless area, making it a paradise for drug addicts, and thugs would often do drugs there to increase the excitement.


    As for why theyd chased after us... they were probably high and were looking for some additional excitement.


    There was even an exnation for the scene wed seen on the second floor.


    There was this QQ group in Hong Kong, and the young members liked to abuse small animals. Theyd skin the poor animals alive and enjoy their wails.


    In short, the So Uk Estate was the ce where the scum of society gathered.


    Moreover, gangs would often choose to fight there. The fact that we didn''t bump into real gangstersst night was already a stroke of good luck.


    Song Longji''s exnation infuriated Li Mazi. He clenched his teeth and red at him. "Why didn''t you tell us about all this earlier? We were scared shitlessst night!"


    Song Longjiughed. "What? Didnt you just say that you were a total badassst night?"


    Li Mazi was immediately rendered speechless.


    I seized the opportunity to ask Song Longji, "In that case, what was the deal with that woman knocking on the various doors?"

 Chapter 27: The Death of the Red-Haired Girl

    Chapter 27: The Death of the Red-Haired Girl


    Song Longji furrowed his brows. "I haven''t heard anything about her. Maybe she just suffers from some mental illness?"


    I pondered for a moment and deemed it possible.


    Song Longji asked me, "What are you going to do now?


    I replied, "Since were dealing with human beings, theres no need to be afraid. The owner of the Human Bones Ne will definitely head to Azalea House to eat the souls of the dead. We just have to keep a close watch on the ce."


    Song Longji suggested, "Let''s go together tonight. I''ll bring a gun to assure our safety."


    Then, I told Song Longji to show me the pictures of the suicide victims. I wanted to check them again to see if I could find something.


    Song Longji took the files out of his briefcase and handed them to me.


    When I looked at the picture of that student that had died in the dormitory, I had a sudden realization.


    The more I looked at the corpse, the more I found it simr to the old woman wed met in the bathhouse yesterday.


    I furrowed my brow. At first, I thought it was just my misconception, but the more I looked at it, the more I felt that I was right.


    I passed the files to Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue, asking them to take a look at the student and see if she resembled the crazy old woman wed metst night.


    The duo looked at the picture and nodded.


    Yin Xinyue said confidently, "Even if they aren''t the same person, theyre definitely rted."


    I didn''t think it was a mere coincidence. I felt that there was a big secret behind it.


    Therefore, I asked Song Longji, "Aji, wheres the body of this student?"


    Song Longji hesitated a little before replying, "In the morgue?"


    I continued, "Can you check and see if it''s still there?"


    Song Longji nodded and made a call. Then, his expression suddenly changed, bing pale, and he looked at me with eyes filled with shock.


    I knew it. My guess is probably correct.


    Sure enough, Song Longji stuttered as he said, "T-The corpse was in the refrigerator, but when our men went there to check, they didn''t find anything. T-There was only a pair of shoes..."


    At the same time, I recalled that the woman we saw yesterday wasnt wearing shoes!


    I suddenly felt a headache.


    Song Longji asked, "Are you suspecting that the crazy old woman you met yesterday might be the third victim? Do you mean that shes still alive?"


    Song Longji, Yin Xinyue, and Li Mazi had all ugly expressions on their faces.


    Yin Xinyue was so scared that she didn''t even dare to lift her head. She suggested stopping with the search. As for her boss, shed deal with them. Not only that, she even offered to pay part of the sum theyd promised me for the job.


    However, I shook my head and declined her suggestion. There was a certain rule in this profession of mine... one could either ignore the otherworldly item and not bother with it for a lifetime, or get involved and have to deal with it for a lifetime.


    Although I wasn''tpletely sure what would happen if one abandoned the job halfway, I knew that that person wouldn''t die a natural death.


    After I declined her offer, Yin Xinyue didn''t insist any longer.


    I had two theories regarding the person wed seen yesterday.


    First theory, they were two different people that just looked simr.


    Secondand most likely to be correcttheory, was that the person wed seen was indeed the third suicide victim, who couldn''t find peace after her death and had decided to head to Azalea House.


    The Human Bones Ne had the unique ability to make its owner famous, and it was often used by superstars to gain fame. But, the fame obtained through the Human Bones Ne came at the cost of the owners body. After the fame of that student was sucked dry, only strong resentment was left in her body. At that point, it was hard to predict what would happen!


    So, I wasn''t too surprised that the suicide victim had suddenly appeared in Azalea House.


    ording to popr belief, this was a case of corpseing back to life.


    However, there were still many other mysteries to unveil. For example, why had the corpse appeared in Azalea House? I was sure that it hadn''t crawled there on its own; someone had secretly brought it there.


    My guess was that it was the doing of the Human Bones Nes owner.


    In addition, the old woman we saw yesterday had a face filled with wrinkles. Although we recognized her as the suicide victim, shed looked 50 or 60 years oldst night.


    If they were really the same person, how did she age this much overnight?


    After recalling all these events, I became cautious.


    I told Song Longji, "To avoid unnecessary casualties, it would be best to make all the people hanging out in Azalea House at night leave."


    Song Longji furrowed his brow. "If we drive that trash out, wouldn''t we end up rming the owner of the Human Bones Ne? The opposite party would be more cautious and might not even go to Azalea House."


    I fell into deep thought.Song Longji has a point. How should we proceed now?


    After discussing for a while, we concluded that it was better not to cause a ruckus and proceed cautiously.


    Once wed finished devising the n, we concluded the meeting.


    Just as I was preparing to rest, Song Longji came back, looking flustered. "Someone died in Azalea House."


    "This quick?" I was caught off guard. I didn''t think that things would escte this quickly.


    Song Longji nodded.


    "Let''s go take a look," I said.


    We got into Song Longji''s car and rushed to Azalea House. Maybe it was because death was amon urrence in the area, but there weren''t many spectators.


    We followed the police and arrived on the third floor of the building.


    There was a strong smell of blood in the air, which made us feel a little nauseated.


    When I saw the scene, my scalp went numb. The whole room was filled with blood. The floor, the walls, and even the ceiling had traces of blood.


    A sensual, red-haired woman was lying in a pool of blood on the floor. After a careful look, we discovered that it was the same girl wed met yesterday.


    She seemed to be slightly over 20 years old, and possibly because of the nutrients in the blood shed used to drink, her skin was very smooth.


    Song Longji covered his nose. "Forensic expert, whats the cause of death?"


    A police officer squatting on one side and writing the report came over and said, "The cause of death is excessive loss of blood, almost 80% of the blood in her body was drained through the arteries in her limbs. It seems that she cut her arteries and kept drinking her own blood until she died from overeating."


    Then, another police officer approached us. "Chief, ording to the evidence we collected, shemitted suicide. As for the blood on the ceiling, she spurted it out of her mouth."


    "Nonsense!" Song Longji flipped. "Have you ever seen someone drinking their own blood and dying from ''overeating''?!"


    The forensic expert said in a hurry, "There was also the blood of another person at the site. However, we still can''t tell whose blood that was."


    Song Longji looked at me and smiled bitterly, helplessly shaking his head.


    My guts were telling me that the death of this girl was rted to the Human Bones Ne, but I was only able to connect the dots after my vision identally fell on her wrist.


    There was an imprint on her wrist. Something had pressed on her wrist too tightly, leaving a small bruise behind.


    I told the forensic expert to check the marks on the girl''s wrist.


    The forensic expert quickly reported back. "It seems that she was wearing something too tightly around her wrist, perhaps Buddha beads."


    I immediately thought of the Human Bones Ne.


    I was pretty sure that she was wearing it before her death. The Human Bones Ne had absorbed all her fame and caused her to have hallucinations, leading to the scene before our eyes.


    Li Mazi and the others had ugly expressions as well. As soon as I pointed out the marks on her wrist, they probably connected the dots too.


    Of course, I couldnt tell what I was thinking to the forensic expert. There was no way he would believe that it was the doing of a ne.


    I took a deep breath and for hinted Song Longji to follow me outside.


    After wed reached a deserted ce, I told him about my guess.


    Song Longji sighed. "Is that Human Bones Ne really this terrifying?"


    I replied, "Yes, it definitely is."


    Since we were already in the building, I decided to head to the eighth floor to look for that old woman.


    If we managed to find her, he would finally solve the mystery of the students missing corpse!

 Chapter 28: Arrested

    Chapter 28: Arrested


    Even if it was daytime, no one dared to go to the eighth floor.


    The ce was deserted, and the chilly wind made me feel as if Id barged into hell.


    When we reached the eighth floor, we discovered a long trail of blood on the ground. It started from the head of the stairs and covered the whole corridor. Part of the blood had already dried up, and it felt like it was done by the old woman from yesterday.


    However, some of the blood had yet to dry. I squatted down and touched it. Sure enough, it was still wet.


    The fresh trail of blood led to the roof of the building.


    It seems like the other party didn''t go anywhere and that theyre still on the roof! A weed stroke of good luck!


    I didn''t hesitate and brought everyone to the roof.


    Due to Azalea House falling into disuse, the roof was covered with knee-length weeds, the railing was severely damaged, and one might just fall off the building if they were a little careless.


    I carefully looked around and discovered an old woman lying on the railing.


    She was calmly lying there, seemingly asleep. Her clothes were in tatters, and she smelled pretty bad.


    Moreover, her sleeping posture was very dangerous as shed fall off the building if she were to move carelessly.


    We were on the eighth floor; she was definitely going to die if she fell from this height!


    Given her precarious posture, we didn''t dare to wake her up.


    Just as wed reached a deadlock, Li Mazi pointed at her pocket and said, "Look there. There seems to be something in her pocket."


    I took a look and saw a phone.


    Song Longji broke the silence. "If we want to know whether or not she''s that student, why not give her a call?"


    He had a point. As such, I told him to look for the phone number of the suicide victim in the police records.


    Song Longji took out his phone and said, "I have no signal. Can you use your phone instead?"


    I didn''t think too much of it and dialed the number.


    The familiar ringtone of an iPhone echoed from the womans pocket. The discovery shocked us. It meant that the old woman in front of us was indeed the university student that had died!


    Then, just as I was preparing to go forward and wake her up, the other party was startled awake by the ringtone and fell off the building...


    I opened my eyes wide in shock. Afterward, I looked down and saw a bloody mess.


    The loud impact attracted the attention of the police officers on the third floor. They walked out of the building to see what was happening and then looked upward.


    When they saw us, they were surprised. It was likely that they mistook us for the murderers.


    Song Longji calmed down and said, "Keep your calm, and be careful how you reply."


    I nodded and wiped the sweat off my forehead.


    After seeing the corpse, I got a sudden idea. I quietly approached Song Longji and whispered a few words.


    Very soon, the other police officers reached the roof and asked while gasping for breath, "What''s the deal with the body downstairs?"


    Song Longji brought the police officers before the railing. "The woman fell off the building on her own."


    Since the other police officers were still puzzled, Song Longji continued, "The woman was lying on the railing, seemingly asleep. Afterward, her phone suddenly rang, and she was startled awake. She lost her bnce and fell off the building."


    Li Mazi gasped and his face paled. He looked at me with a worried expression. I could only hint for him to stay calm.


    Song Longji suddenly turned toward me and smiled coldly. "Mister Zhang, can you tell us whom you called just now? Did you deliberately murder that homeless woman?"


    Yin Xinyue was dumbfounded.


    Li Mazi gritted his teeth and looked at Song Longji. "What are you trying to do?"


    Before Song Longji could speak, another police officer came over, his expression grave. "I''ll have to trouble you to hand over your phone. We need to check it."


    "You don''t have any proof. Why should I give you my phone?" I said.


    "Because youre now suspected of multiple murders!" The police officers snorted and continued, "We checked the video recording, and it turns out that you came to Azalea Housest night! Can you tell us what were you doing here?"


    "Moreover, the death of the red-haired girl also seems rted to you. Some people said they saw you quarrel with her yesterday. Is this still not enough?"


    The three of us gasped and felt as if we were standing trial.


    Song Longji said coldly, "Take them back to the police station. Mister Zhang, it''s better if you immediately hand over your phone. Don''tpel me to use force."


    Li Mazi flew into a rage and rushed toward Song Longji. "You bastard, youre the one that gave us the number! No wonder you didn''t make the call yourself and let my brother do it. You nned this since the beginning!"


    Yin Xinyue took out her phone. She knew that things didn''t look good for us. Wed fallen into Song Longji''s trap, and she could only call her boss and ask for help.


    But, there was no way that Song Longji would give her the opportunity. He dashed forward and snatched her phone. Next, he brought us to the police station.


    Along the way, Li Mazi cursed until his throat was sore.


    Yin Xinyue was also worried. "What do we do now?"


    I replied, "We can only go with the flow."


    After throwing us into a cell, nobody came to interrogate us.


    Li Mazi was restless and kept walking back and forth.


    Yin Xinyue wanted to find a method to get in contact with her boss. She firmly believed that her boss would have the means to bail us out.


    As for me, I sat there,forting and telling her that everything was alright. "If they can''t find any evidence by tomorrow, they''ll let us leave."


    Li Mazi didn''t know whether tough or cry. "You really are naive. If Song Longji did everything in his power to bring us here, theres no way that he''ll let us off that easily.


    I simply shook my head and didn''t reply.


    Maybe it was because he was exhausted, but Li Maziy on the bed and quickly fell asleep.


    In the evening, a sudden noise woke me up.


    I opened my eyes and saw that Song Longji hade over. Behind him was a group of men with naked upper bodies covered in tattoos.


    No one spoke as a police officer in the rear threw the various thugs into the cells.


    It didn''t take me long to recognize those guys. They were the thugs doing drugs in Azalea Housest night, the same ones that had run after us with daggers, ready to chop us up.


    After seeing Song Longji, Li Mazi began cursing again.


    Song Longji ignored us as he turned around and left.


    The junkies also recognized us. They startedughing and harassing Yin Xinyue.


    I told her to ignore them. Getting into an argument with trash like that is only going to worsen our mood.


    After seeing that we were ignoring them, the thugs got bored and quietly sat down in their respective prison cells.


    I pretended to sleep, but I was secretly keeping an eye on them.


    I thought to myself:This young and theyve already degenerated this much... aren''t they afraid of letting down their parents? What are their ns for the future? Life is short, and yet these guys are wasting it like this...


    Since they were unable to do drugs in prison, the thugs quickly started to feel ufortable. Some began walking back and forth, while others started screaming.


    If I hadn''t known in advance that they were drug addicts, I wouldve mistaken them for mummified corpses with their skinny bodies and the dark circles under their sunken eyes.


    They caused a ruckus and only fell asleep around dawn.


    Then, just as I was quietly sitting in my cell, one of the thugs sleeping in the adjacent cell suddenly stood up. He looked around, somewhat dazed, and his eyes finally fell on me.


    He weirdly smiled at me, making my heart race. I felt that there was a deep, hidden meaning behind his smile.


    He walked over and said in a hoarse voice, "I''m hungry! Give me your hair, I want to taste it."


    This guy is nuts!I cursed him inwardly and ignored him.


    Luckily, we weren''t in the same cell, and there were thick bars of reinforced steel between us. I didn''t have to worry about him hurting me.


    Seeing that I was ignoring him, the thug shouted, "Give me your hair, I''m hungry!"


    As he shouted, Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue also woke up and looked at him, not knowing whether tough or cry.


    The thug red at us and turned around. He sat on the toilet bowl and began defecating.


    Even while defecating, he was acting very strange. He wasughing and pulling his hair out, stuffing it in his mouth.


    He was very quick, eating half of his hair in mere seconds.


    His scalp was bleeding profusely, and the blood that slid down on his face made him look even more terrifying.


    After witnessing the scene, I nodded. It was time!


    I shouted, "Aji, now!"

 Chapter 29: Possessed

    Chapter 29: Possessed


    Song Longji quickly came over and opened our cell, asking, "In whose body is the Human Bones Ne concealed?"


    I immediately pointed at the guy sitting on the toilet bowl.


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue were confused as they looked at Song Longji and I.


    I didn''t have the time to exin. I told them to grab the lime powder, desant, and bucket of pig intestines that Song Longji had prepared in advance and entered the cell of the thug.


    That guy was still pulling out his hair and eating them while taking a dump.


    I didn''t waste time and sprinkled the lime powder and desant on his body.


    However, neither of them had an effect. The guy kept sitting on the toilet bowl.


    Although surprised, I moved forward and grabbed his arm, pulling him away from the toilet. But, as soon as I did so, I was scared shitless.


    I discovered that his intestines had dropped into the toilet through his rectum!


    The thug didn''t utter a word and just smiled coldly.


    I realized that things would only get worse from now on. The Human Bones Ne was very likely in his belly... and now, it had gone down the drain alongside his intestines!


    Although I had taken into ount all kinds of scenarios, I didn''t think of this one.


    I said to Song Longji, "Can you tell the police station to block the drains?"


    Song Longji was perplexed. "I can make a call and tell somebody to do it."


    After hanging up, he looked at the thug on the ground and said, "Still, this guy sure was determined..."


    I sighed. "It''s not that he was determined... this was done by the Human Bones Ne. The ne has already developed a consciousness of its own and can now control its owner, making them act ording to its wishes."


    "What? A ne can develop a consciousness?" Song Longji was dumbfounded.


    "Rather than consciousness, it would be best to call it ''unconditioned reflex''. It''s simr to how animals and insects keep evolving in order to survive."


    It seemed that Song Longji didn''t really understand what I was saying and he just looked at me in puzzlement.


    In the meantime, Li Mazi grabbed my cor and said, "Little Brother, you better exin whats going on, or else this matter wont end here!"


    I forced a smile. "Let''s find the Human Bones Ne first and leave this discussion forter, okay?"


    As a result, Song Longji and I went to look for the Human Bones Ne.


    When we found the worker in charge of the drains, they told us that they didn''t find anything except for some excrement.


    I furrowed my brow. "Think again, did you see anything else? Like a person?"


    The worker had a sudden realization. "There was indeed a person that crawled out of the drainage. However, they left very quickly."


    I sighed.When we finally found the Human Bones Ne, we lost it again.


    When we returned to the police station, Li Mazi asked me, "Were you conspiring with Song Longji since the very beginning? If so, why didn''t you tell us? You made us worry for nothing!"


    Since he insisted, I roughly told Li Mazi about the n.


    "When we were on the roof, I had a sudden idea. The old woman casually falling off the building was very likely rted to the Human Bones Ne''s owner."


    "Their objective was to shift the me on me since I could potentially affect their n."


    "Therefore, I decided to take the bait and y along."


    "I believe that it wasnt the owner who took the ne off the wrist of the red-haired girl, but the thugs. If the Human Bones Ne wished to absorb more fame, those thugs were the best candidate."


    "I told Song Longji to catch those guys by surprise and bring them to the police station tonight. That way, I could keep an eye on them. If one of them really had the Human Bones Ne, there was a chance that it would be revealed."


    What caught me off guard was that the other party had stuffed the Human Bones Ne into their intestinal tract instead of wearing it on their body


    The Human Bones Ne was an extremely dangerous otherworldly item, and it wasn''t strange that it could influence the user up to this point.


    As for the lime powder, desant, and pig intestines, Id prepared them to temporarily suppress its negative power. Although, they had no use right now.


    I hadn''t told Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi about the n because I didnt want the other party to suspect anything.


    If the Human Bones Nes owner discovered my n, it was unlikely that theyd take action!


    Still, I never expected that my detailed n would end up failing miserably.


    I sighed and felt depressed.


    Now, the enemy had been alerted, and it wouldnt be so easy to find the Human Bones Ne again!


    I felt a headache and suggested returning to the hotel, resting, and then thinking of another n.


    Song Longji agreed. "Alright, I''ll help you settle the matter on this side."


    I asked, "What are you going to do with those drug addicts?"


    Song Longji replied, "We have no choice but to release them."


    ording to Song Longji, Hong Kong''s government was overloaded with work, and rehabilitation centers for drug addicts were already full. The government didn''t have the manpower to waste on this scum.


    Even if they were to forcefully put the thugs into a rehabilitation center, it wouldn''t take them long to start doing drugs again. Therefore, it was better to release them and let them run their course.


    I forced a smile and felt that Hong Kong''s public security was somewhatcking.


    After returning to the hotel, I closed the doors and windows.


    I had a bad feeling... I felt that the Human Bones Nes owner was definitely going to retaliate!


    After everything that had happened over the past few days, we were exhausted. Due to this, we fell asleep pretty quickly.


    While sleeping, I was startled awake by the sound of brawling.


    I opened my eyes and saw two figures in the room!


    After taking a careful look, I discovered that one of the figures was Li Mazi. He was holding a knife and stabbing blindly.


    The other figure was thin and tall, and he effortlessly dodged Li Mazi''s attacks. Afterward, the figure threw Li Mazi to the ground and got rid of the knife in his hand, subduing him.


    Li Mazi growled, but his voice was strange. It didn''t seem like his voice, but that of a woman. Moreover, his face was pale, and his eyes rolled up. There was definitely something wrong with him.


    After a while, I recognized the other figure. It was the man that had killed the giant python back at Yama''s Execution Ground!


    Why is he here? How did he get in the hotel?


    I was in a daze and returned to my senses only after a while.


    When he turned around and gazed at me with his cold eyes, I finally reacted. "Who are you? Why are you following me?"


    The man said expressionlessly, "You wouldve died if I hadn''t been following you. Find me a pair of chopsticks."


    After listening to his maic voice, I followed his orders without hesitation and started looking for a pair of chopsticks.


    Once I gave him the chopsticks, he pried open Li Mazi''s mouth and stuffed the chopsticks between his teeth to prevent him from biting his tongue.


    He then took out a piece of sandalwood, lit it, inhaled some smoke, and blew it in Li Mazi''s face.


    The vast majority of the smoke dispersed, but Li Mazi inhaled a part of it.


    In the next moment, his paleplexion changed for the better.


    After dealing with Li Mazi, he handed me the remaining half of the sandalwood. "Take it, it mighte in handyter."


    I gazed at him in a daze. "Just who are you...?"


    "It doesn''t matter who I am," he said. "What matters is that you can''t foolishly ept all tasks. Know your ce."


    I blushed from shame. The other party was definitely thinking that I was an idiot, ready to give up my life for the sake of money...


    "Just now, your friend tried to kill you with a knife. Who knows what mightve happened if I hadn''te here in time. His body is somewhat weak andcks vitality. That''s why the Human Bones Ne was able to influence his mind this easily..."


    "The Human Bones Ne is a double-edged sword and hardly something good! It can indeed increase one''s fame, but it will also overdraw the remaining luck of the user, taking their life away once theres no more luck to absorb," the man exined.


    I nodded, agreeing with his analysis.


    "Good. Now, I can leave."


    "Wait a minute! I blurted. "Why do you keep helping me? Where can I find you if I find myself at a dead end?"


    "You''ll know everything in due time If you want to find me,e to Hong Kong''s Mitu Temple."


    Then, he quietly left with his sword on his back.


    I called him several times, but he ignored me.


    I gazed at his cold back and fell into deep thought.This guy isn''t as simple as he seems. Does he have an ulterior motive? Did someone entrust him with my protection?

 Chapter 30: Human Greed

    Chapter 30: Human Greed


    Yin Xinyue was also awake, but she quietly sat on the bed, not uttering a word. Only after that man had left did she cautiouslye over. "Who was that person?"


    I sighed. "I don''t know, either."


    Still, his words had enlightened me.


    In the meantime, Li Mazi returned to his senses. He looked around the room in a daze and said, "Just now, I had a strange dream. I was holding a knife and trying to stab you."


    I forced a smile. "It wasn''t a dream. It was all real."


    Li Maziughed. "How could that be? Youre my cash cow, theres no way Id stab you!"


    Luckily, Yin Xinyue had recorded everything on her phone.


    After seeing the recording, Li Mazi''s face paled. "H-How is this possible?"


    I sighed and exined, "The Human Bones Ne controlled your mind. That''s why you took a knife and started to stab around blindly. If that man hadn''t saved the situation, you would have very likely be the next ''owner'' of the Human Bones Ne!"


    At the same time, I carefully stored the half piece of sandalwood hed given me in my cigarette case.


    Li Mazi put on a long face. "What? Why should I be the next owner of the Human Bones Ne?"


    I exined, "I realized a while ago that weve been doing everything wrong. The person we were looking for doesn''t even exist!"


    Yin Xinyue was puzzled. "What do you mean?"


    I exined, "Haven''t we been looking for the nes owner? Well, there is no owner!"


    "The ne doesn''t have an owner?" Li Mazi was dumbfounded. "Are you serious? Is the Human Bones Ne running around on its own and harming people...?"


    I continued, "That''s one way to put it. To be more urate, although it doesn''t have a master, it has a lot of ves. The suicide victims were its ves, and the ne was their master. It controlled their minds and had them do its bidding, lording over their life and death. Once a ve was dead, the ne would order them to deliver it in the hands of the next one."


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue opened their eyes wide. They found it hard to believe that a lifeless antique could enve humans!


    Actually, human beings were far from being perfect. As long as one gave them what they wanted, they would be more than willing to be ves.


    I was sure that the Human Bones Ne had relied on the hidden desires of those people to control them. Exploiting their greed would be one way to control them.


    Anyway, the current priority was to get a clear understanding of the situation and determine how the Human Bones Ne had circted among the various victims. There was definitely a close rtionship between them.


    But, to get to the truth, we needed Song Longji''s help.


    Therefore, I told Yin Xinyue to give him a call and tell him toe over.


    Song Longji was busy finding amodation for the drug addicts, but after hearing that wed made a major discovery, he rushed to the hotel. He entered the room and asked, "What did you discover?"


    I replied, "Weve found the murderer."


    Song Longji was taken aback. "What? Who is it?"


    I exined, "The courier killed the street cleaner, and the university student killed the courier."


    Song Longji was dumbfounded. I could tell from his expression that he didn''t believe me. "Are you telling me that this whole case is about a guy killing thest victim and then getting killed by the next one? But, why would these people kill each other?"


    I continued, "Because of greed! Humans are born greedy, and theyre willing to do anything to obtain what they want. The Human Bones Ne took advantage of this weakness to push them to kill other people and finally obtain its power. Although I''m still unsure why the victims died in that order, it''s definitely rted to the Human Bones Ne."


    Song Longji kept silent for a long time. Then, he said, "In the absence of conclusive proof, the case can''t be settled. Its a pretty nasty case, with a high number of victims."


    I assured him. "Dont worry, I''ll find the proof you need."


    I then asked him to investigate another matter. I wanted to know what the rtionship was between the various victims.


    Song Longji nodded and went to investigate. Since I had nothing to do, I also went with him.


    As for Li Mazi, he didn''t go. The Human Bones Ne had almost killed him thest time, and if he decided toe with us, he might get possessed again.


    Since he didn''t want to go, I didn''t force him.


    Yin Xinyue insisted oning with us, and I had no choice but toply with her request.


    After what had happenedst night, shed been increasingly relying on me.


    Was it because I could bring her a certain sense of security?


    However, I knew my limits. I was just a small merchant of antiques that didnt match with her.


    With her looks, she was bound to be a top-tier superstar one day. The distance between us would keep growing.


    Therefore, it was better to forget these feelings to avoid getting hurt in the future.


    Song Longji and I decided to investigate the rtionship between the street cleaner and the courier first.


    I thought to myself:Is it possible that the courier delivered something to the street cleaner?


    Although the possibility of finding something useful was low, I asked Song Longji to check if the street cleaner had bought something online in this period.


    After a quick check, it turned out that the seemingly poor street cleaner had bought a lot of luxury goods recently: cosmetics, purses, clothes, etc. And, the person that had delivered them, was none other than the courier.


    I tried to piece everything together...


    The street cleaner suddenly got her hands on the Human Bones Ne and made a fortune. She started to enjoy her life and dress beautifully. Then, she probably seduced the courier.


    The courier coveted her wealth and went to live with her at some point. Slowly, he discovered the secret of the Human Bones Ne. As long as he could get it, all the money would be his. This was how the thought of murder took root in his mind.


    After killing the street cleaner and obtaining the ne, the courier also made a fortune. He wallowed in debauchery all day and quit his job. Finally, he decided to seduce a greedy female student.


    The cycle continued, and the ne ultimately ended up in the hands of the blood-sucking girl and that thug. All of them became the ves of the Human Bones Ne due to their greed


    After listening to my exnation, Song Longji was dumbfounded.


    He then gave me a thumbs up and said, "I wish you could join our Hong Kong Police Force!"


    Yin Xinyue interjected and said proudly, "Hehe, don''t forget who brought him here!"


    Now that the truth was revealed, Song Longji just had to follow my analysis to get the proof he needed.


    He was itching to solve the case and immediately took his leave.


    After Song Longji had left, Yin Xinyue asked me, "What do we do now?"


    I replied, "Now, we have to keep an eye on Li Mazi. He also covets the Human Bones Ne, and he''s going to be the next owner."


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Then, she added, "I really dislike people like Li Mazi. He boasts nonstop while not having any real ability."


    I smiled and didn''t reply. To be honest, humans were all the same, and everyone desired something. The only thing that varied was the degree of their desire. For this reason, I didnt dare to think too highly of myself.


    Of course, the other guy, the one that had run away with the ne, had to die before Li Mazi could be the new owner.


    Although we could simply wait for that person to die and for the ne to fall into Li Mazi''s hands, a life was still a life. It was better to save that person if possible.


    I grabbed my phone and called Song Longji, telling him to carefully investigate the friends of the thug that had died back at the police station to see if there were any suspicious elements that might have carried off the Human Bones Ne.


    Solving the murder cases was important, but not as important as saving someone''s life.


    Song Longji readily agreed. "I''ll send you all the data weve gathered."


    Soon after, he sent us the content of that guys WeChat Moments, as well as his QQ, WeChat, and MSN contact lists. But, even after examining the lists for a while, we didn''t find anything useful.


    It was only after leafing through all the data that I found something worth noting.


    ording to the police report, when the officers had arrested the drug addicts in Azalea House, a man named ''Kay-Z'' managed to run away through a window.


    Moreover, it seemed that this Kay-Z and the thug that had died in the police station were at odds.


    Is it possible that they were fighting over the Human Bones Ne?


    When the thought shed through my mind, I called Song Longji and told him to mobilize the police force and find Kay-Z!

 Chapter 31: Cut in Half

    Chapter 31: Cut in Half


    Shortly after, Song Longji gave me a call, and we went to Kay-Z''s ce together.


    The police burst through the door, barging into the messy and stinky room.


    Our target lived in a very simple apartment; there was only a bed, a cupboard, and aputer desk.


    Kay-Z didn''t seem to be at home.


    We casually searched around, and something quickly attracted my attention.


    It was a metallic object hanging from the ceiling fan, simr to those hand straw cutters used in the countryside. Two thin ropes kept the thing attached to the fan. The ropes were so frail that it felt they would break at the slightest movement, causing the straw cutter to fall and cut someone.


    The word ''injustice'' was inscribed on the straw cutters body using fresh blood.


    When I saw that thing, I had a bad feeling. I was reminded of a capital punishment used in ancient times; execution by cutting in two at the waist!


    As the name suggests, the criminal was cut into two halves at the waist. This type of punishment first appeared in the ancient Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1045 BCE) and was abolished only during the reign of Emperor Yongzheng (1723-1735 CE) from the Qing Dynasty.


    The fact that a straw cutter used to cut people at the waist had appeared in the residence of the nes current owner made my imagination run wild. I felt that Id unveiled the secret of the Human Bones Ne!


    There was a highly knowledgeable man that lived during the reign of Emperor Wen of Han, Chao Cuo.


    Chao Cuo was a famous minister of the Western Han Dynasty that loyally served his homnd and made a lot of contributions, to the point that Emperor Jing of Han gave him the title of ''Pir of the Nation''!


    However, some of Chao Cuo''s policies ended up harming the interests of the feudal lords.


    As such, they rebelled one after another, giving rise to what wouldter be known as ''the Rebellion of the Seven States''.


    To consolidate his power and appease the feudal lords, Emperor Jing of Han had no choice but to order Chao Cuos death.


    He dispatched a military officer, who used the pretext of an imperial audience, to force Chao Cuo out of his home. As soon as Chao Cuo was out, the soldiers lying in ambush grabbed him, and the military officer took out the imperial edict, executing him on the spot by cutting him in two at the waist.


    That day, a loyal minister died.


    After his death, those that respected Chao Cuo boiled his intestines and ate them, hoping that the minister could keep living inside them forever.


    The straw cutter used to kill Chao Cuo was also enshrined, and as a sign of protest, they used his blood to write the word ''injustice'' on the de.


    When the Emperor heard about it, he was furious.


    He ordered the soldiers to behead the peasants and string their skulls together, hanging them above the city wall.


    ording to the rumors, the skulls slowly eroded and gradually became smaller, finally turning into ahe Human Bones Ne.


    I told everything to Yin Xinyue and Song Longji, who frowned upon hearing my theory. They hadn''t expected that the Human Bones Ne was really made from human bones!


    I exined, "There are several different types of Human Bones Nes, and the one made from human skulls stringed together appears only in legends. After all, no matter how much a human skull erodes, it won''t magically turn into a ne."


    As a matter of fact, real-life Human Bones Nes are mostly made from infant skulls, cat bones, tiger bones, or rhinoceros horns.


    The duo nodded, looking pensive.


    I felt that we had to clear Chao Cuos name if we wanted to subdue the Human Bones Ne and prevent it from killing again.


    Still, where had Kay-Z gone? Did he return to Azalea House to do drugs?


    Just as I was in deep thought, Yin Xinyue said, flustered, "I cant find my phone!"


    "Hmm?" I felt that there was something fishy.


    Shortly after, I remembered that a guy wearing a flu mask had bumped into Yin Xinyue on our way over. Hed totally looked like a thief


    Moreover, hed seemed flustered. Too bad that I was too focused on Kay-Z to pay attention to him.


    Was that Kay-Z? But, why did he steal Yin Xinyue''s phone?


    I asked, "Yin Xinyue, do you still have your purse?"


    Yin Xinyue nodded.


    I fell into deep thought.Why did the thief steal the phone but not the purse? Theres definitely something wrong here.


    Right, Li Mazi! If the other party sends him a message with Yin Xinyue''s phone, asking him out, Li Mazi would definitely take the bait!


    He was the next target of the Human Bones Ne, and the current owner would do everything in their power to deliver him the ne.


    I called Li Mazi right away, but no one answered.


    This made me anxious; it meant that the other party had already contacted Li Mazi.


    Song Longji told me not to worry. "I''ll call the police station and have them track Li Mazi''s phone."


    My forehead was covered with sweat, but I was aware that being impatient wouldn''t help my cause. It was better to wait for a reply from the police station.


    Shortly after, the police sent us Li Mazi''s coordinates. He was close to the Qinjiu River.


    Song Longji gave us a hand and brought us there using a police car.


    The scenery beside the river was beautiful, with a lot of pleasure boats. It was the perfect ce for a date but definitely not the best ce to kill someone!


    I immediately thought of the idiom, ''lure the tiger away from the mountain''.


    Had the enemy deliberately led us to this ce...?


    I anxiously dialed Li Mazi''s number, and we soon found his phone inside a trash can.


    Yet, Li Mazi was nowhere to be found!


    I was right. We were duped!


    I said to Song Longji, "Let''s quickly return to Kay-Z''s apartment. That ce is the execution ground!"


    "Execution ground?" Song Longji looked at me in puzzlement.


    I didn''t have the time to exin and could only urge him to head there as soon as possible.


    Song Longji also realized the gravity of the situation, and he quickly brought us to the apartment.


    I was sweating bullets while praying for Li Mazi.


    Aside from being a greedy pervert, the guy wasn''t that bad. Id already coborated with him a few times, and he was like arade-in-arms by now.


    When we arrived at the apartment, we discovered that the door was locked. Kay-Z was at home!


    I gave Song Longji a meaningful nce. He pulled out his gun and forcefully opened the door.


    As soon as we were inside, the smell of blood assailed our nostrils.


    After a careful look, we noticed that the straw cutter hanging from the ceiling fan had fallen, and below the fan was the lower half of a human body.


    The intestines of the corpse were scattered everywhere, and after following the trail, my vision fell on a distant corner, where I found Kay-Z.


    The upper half of his body was there. Hed been neatly cut in two at the waist, with his intestines and blood leaking out.


    He was lying on Li Mazi''s body, who wasn''t moving in the slightest and had probably passed out from fright.


    Kay-Z had pried open Li Mazis mouth and had inserted his bloody hand into his oral cavity.


    Seeing the scene, Yin Xinyue almost copsed to the ground. I could only tell Song Longji to show her out as I started to check on Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi had only gotten a huge scare and was fine. He woke up right after I sprinkled some cold water on his face.


    He was so scared that he started to scream hysterically as soon as he woke up. Only after Id pped him twice did he return to his senses.


    I immediately asked him, "What happened? How did you appear in this ce?"

 Chapter 32: Mitu Temple

    Chapter 32: Mitu Temple


    Things had gone exactly how Id guessed. Li Mazi had received a message from Yin Xinyue, and the content left no room for misunderstanding. Shed asked him out for a date beside the Qinjiu River.


    However, the one waiting for Li Mazi beside the river wasn''t Yin Xinyue but Kay-Z.


    Li Mazi realized that it was a trap, and he tried to flee. Unfortunately, the other party knocked him unconscious, and when he woke up, he was already in the apartment.


    He thought of retaliating, but before he could even get closer, Kay-Z smiled andy on the bed. He then cut the rope above his head, saying that he would give Li Mazi a gift.


    Before Li Mazi could even react, the straw cutter fell, neatly cutting Kay-Z in two.


    In the next moment, Li Mazi passed out from fright.


    After listening to the story, myplexion was terrible. I muttered, "Youre also going to die at this pace..."


    Li Mazi was shocked. "W-What do you mean by that?"


    I exined, "When we entered the room, we saw Kay-Z lying on your body, and hed forced his hand into your mouth. I''m afraid that he pushed the Human Bones Ne into your belly."


    Li Mazi was dumbfounded. Then, his face paled, and he burst into tears. "Little Brother, save me! You have to save me!"


    Iforted him. "Don''t worry, we''ll find a way. Let''s return to the hotel and carefully discuss this matter. Aji, we''ll leave this ce to you!"


    Song Longji nodded. "I''ll bring you back to the hotel. Ill ask someone else to take over the investigation here."


    I didnt decline his offer. Li Mazi was, after all, covered in blood, and we couldn''t take a taxi in these conditions.


    After a few other police officers arrived at the site, we got into Song Longji''s car and returned to the hotel. Li Mazi went to take a shower, and he vigorously rubbed his skin as if he wanted to rub the Human Bones Ne out of his body.


    Yin Xinyue quietly asked me, "Will Li Mazi also act like the other victims? Like pulling his intestines out or cutting his waist...?"


    I helplessly shook my head. I had no idea, and I didn''t even know if I could deal with the Human Bones Ne at this point.


    I even forbade Li Mazi from defecating. If he defecated out his intestines, it would be game over.


    When Li Mazi came out of the bathroom, he stared at me. "Did you think of a method?"


    I shook my head. "No, but theres no rush. The Human Bones Ne won''t harm you for the time being. We have plenty of time toe up with a n."


    Li Mazi sat in front of me. "You have to think of something quickly! Still... I''m really unlucky. Why did this damned thing have to targetme?!"


    I red at him. "If not for you being greedy, why would the Human Bones Ne even notice you?"


    Li Mazi retorted, "When did you see me being greedy?"


    I continued, "Weren''t you coveting Yin Xinyue''s beauty? Isn''t that being greedy?"


    Li Mazi was rendered speechless. After a while, he said, "Who doesnt like beautiful things? However, I promise I won''t think of beautiful women anymore. Theyre just an endless source of trouble!"


    ...As a result, Yin Xinyue lost her temper and kicked Li Mazi away!


    Returning to the original topic, the Human Bones Ne had caused so many victims due to the extreme hate that permeated its body. To solve the problem, we had to get rid of it!


    Since we knew that the hate of the Human Bones Ne was rted to Chao Cuo''s unjust execution, we had to bring him justice.


    But, how could we clear his name? Its not like we could go back to the Han Dynasty...


    I closed my eyes and fell into deep thought, recalling a story that my grandfather had once told me.


    When my grandfather was younger, he got his hands on a golden tablet, which turned out to be one of the twenty golden tablets of General Yue Fei from the Southern Song Dynasty. The tablet was permeated with strong resentment, and its owner would be afflicted with all kinds of diseases.


    To solve the problem, my grandfather yed the role of Yue Fei and found another person to y the role of Qin Hui, the traitorous chancellor that had caused the death of the loyal general. What differed from the original version was the ending.


    In the y, Yue Fei killed the traitorous Qin Hui, which helped dispelling the hate of the tablet.


    ording to my grandfather, this was the ''substitution method''.


    Given the situation, perhaps we could use the same method.


    As such, I told Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi about it.


    After listening to my n, the duo kept silent; they were afraid it might not work due to how absurd the whole idea was.


    Honestly, they did have a point. Firstly, it wasn''t like the Human Bones Ne had a mind of its own and could see. Secondly, even if it could see, it would be able to tell that it was just a y. If the ne was enraged, Li Mazi would be in even greater danger.


    It was a risky move.


    However, I couldnt think of any other method.


    Li Mazi hesitated for a while before saying, "Maybe keep that method as a backup. Ive thought of another way."


    I looked at Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi continued, "We can go look for that mysterious man! Hes already saved us twice, and perhaps he can even do it a third time! That guys an expert, he might know how to deal with the Human Bones Ne!"


    Right, the man in Kumamon t-shirt! How could I forget about him? Earlier, he even said that I could find him at Hong Kong''s Mitu Temple if I needed help.


    An expert like him should know how to save Li Mazi!


    Therefore, we borrowed Song Longji''s car and set Mitu Temple as the destination on the GPS.


    Mitu Temple was a small Daoist temple in the middle of Hong Kong. It was in, with basically no incense burning. It waspletely different from the Shaolin Temple in maind China, where the price of the incense alone was hundreds of thousands of renminbi.


    Upon seeing the temple, I was somewhat disappointed. Did that man really live there?


    However, I still entered the temple with Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue.


    I politely knocked on the door.


    Very soon, a small Daoist child with braided hair that looked around 13 or 14 years old opened the door.


    The small Daoist child smiled and asked, "Which one of you is Zhang Jiulin?"


    I was surprised.This guy actually knows my name?


    However, I still replied, "That would be me."


    The small Daoist child nodded. "Senior Brother said that you woulde today, and he asked me to wait for you guys in the temple. Come in! Senior Brother had some business and went outside. He''ll be back in the evening."


    Li Mazi didn''t miss the opportunity to tter the other party. "What an expert! He even correctly guessed the day that we woulde!"


    The Daoist child smiled and brought us inside the temple.


    The Daoist temple was very small, but ording to Yin Xinyue, thend where it was built was extremely expensive. Hundreds of thousands of renminbi[1] wouldn''t be enough to buy a single square meter.


    To be able to buy a Daoist temple here, that man was definitely very rich.


    The Daoist child brought us into the main hall, where we found a life-size statue of Wong Tai Sin. Although three sticks of incense were burning, there wasn''t much smoke.


    Upon seeing the statue, I found myself at peace and calmed down quite a bit.


    The Daoist child told us to sit while he ran to the courtyard to boil some water.


    Since I was bored, I decided to take a look around. The ce was very ancient-looking.


    The Daoist child soon returned and said to Li Mazi, "You, take off your clothes and bathe in the scented water."


    Li Mazi opened his eyes wide. "That water is boiling! Wouldn''t I get roasted if I were to bathe in it?"


    The Daoist child said with a smile, "Senior Brother said that we would get to eat spicy pig intestines in the evening if you don''t bathe in this water."


    Li Mazi was dumbfounded. "What do you mean by that?"


    The Daoist child exined, "If you don''t get into the water, you''ll throw up your guts tonight."


    Li Mazi was scared out of his wits. He jumped into therge barrel of water without hesitation.


    The bath was enjoyable at first, but the temperature rose very quickly, and Li Mazi was already screaming by the end.


    Yet, the Daoist child didnt stop and kept increasing the temperature.


    It continued until evening, when someone knocked on the door of the Daoist temple.


    The Daoist child smiled as he ran toward the door. "Senior Brother has returned."


    Sure enough, the person that had knocked on the door was indeed the mysterious man. He had a high nose, fair skin, and nting eyebrows. He was so handsome that he made me feel jealous.


    He was still wearing that loose Kumamon t-shirt. Was he such a big fan of Kumamon that he wore the same clothes every day...?


    He had a bundle wrapped in a cloth on his back.


    After raising his head and coldly gazing at us, he headed toward Li Mazi, who was still soaking in therge wooden barrel.


    [1] 100,000 renminbi is around 14,000 USD.

 Chapter 33: Cosplaying

    Chapter 33: Cosying


    Li Mazi gritted his teeth and smiled at the man in the Kumamon t-shirt. "Big Brother, youre back!"


    The mysterious man didn''t reply and merely stretched out his fingers, feeling the water. "The temperature isn''t high enough."


    Li Mazi''s face paled. "Big Brother, at this pace, I''ll get roaste"


    However, the man in the Kumamon t-shirtpletely ignored him and entered the Daoist temple; we were also ignored.


    Yin Xinyue sighed with emotion. "I''ve seen a lot of stars try their hardest to act cool, but this guy is this cool without even trying."


    Her words left me speechless. The two of us followed after him and entered the temple.


    The mysterious man lit a stick of incense for Wong Tai Sin''s statue and turned around. "Were you able to find a way to solve this problem?"


    I forced a smile and said, "Unfortunately, I couldn''t think of anything."


    The man continued, "In that case, we can only resort to a more traditional approach. We have to force the Human Bones Ne out of his body."


    Yin Xinyue''s face paled. "With ''traditional approach''... you don''t n on cutting his belly open, right?"


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt expressionlessly nced at her, which surprised me quite a bit. I didn''t think any man could remain unmoved in front of Yin Xinyue''s beauty, but I was proven wrong.


    The word ''cold'' truly fitted him.


    He gave me the bundle on his back and said, "Choose one."


    I asked in puzzlement, "What do I have to choose?"


    He didn''t reply and opened the wrapper covering the bundle.


    Inside were a few ancient dresses. Given the style, they were from the Han Dynasty. To be precise, it was clothing of high-ranking civil and military officers.


    The ''traditional approach'' he mentioned was seemingly rted to acting in a y.


    Yin Xinyue giggled. "Are we going to cosy as ancient characters?"


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt nodded. "Yes, we''ll be cosying."


    To be honest, I was surprised that he knew such a modern term.


    I looked carefully and finally settled on the attire of a military officer.


    The reason was that it looked cool. The surface was simr to scale armor, and it emitted a beautiful radiance under the light of the setting sun.


    But, after choosing this attire, I regretted it. It was very heavy and weighed at least 15 or 20 kg.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt nced at Yin Xinyue. "Your turn."


    Yin Xinyue was startled. "Do I have to choose one as well?"


    The man nodded.


    Yin Xinyue took a careful look and finally chose a dazzling pink dress. It seemed like something a princess or an empress would wear: gorgeous,rge sleeves, low-cut, innumerable decorative patterns, and a slim waist. I started fantasizing about how shed look after wearing the dress.


    Thest piece of clothing was that of a civil officer.


    I asked the man in the Kumamon t-shirt, "Are you going to wear it?"


    He shook his head and tossed the outfit beside Li Mazi.


    The Daoist child helped Li Mazi get out of the barrel.


    His whole body was bright red, and he looked rather pitiful as he staggered.


    Yin Xinyue suddenly recalled something and asked Li Mazi, "Do you need to use the toilet? Youve been holding it for the whole day if Im not mistaken."


    Li Mazi shook his head, and his face became even redder.


    Yin Xinyue and I looked at each other... yup, hed peed in the barrel.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt asked, "Do you know where the ne''s hatees from?"


    I briefly told him the story of the loyal minister Chao Cuo, who was unjustly put to death by Emperor Jing of Han. However, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt waved his hand in disapproval. "Chao Cuo''s hate doesn''te from his unjust death, but from being unable to see his newborn daughter."


    I was puzzled and thought to myself:That dude died centuries ago. How could you know how he felt...?


    The man continued, "Hisst words were: Poor me, I couldn''t even see my soon-to-be-born daughter!"


    Yin Xinyue''s expression changed. "Are you saying that I have to y the role of Chao Cuo''s daughter? In that case, who''s going to y Chao Cuo''s role?"


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt pointed at Li Mazi. "Him."


    Yin Xinyue seemed unhappy and quietlyined.


    On the other hand, Li Mazi seemed delighted. "Daughter, let daddy hug you."


    Yin Xinyue turned around and left, furious.


    As for me, I was going to star as the military officer that killed Chao Cuo, which worried me to no end. Unlike Yin Xinyue, I wasn''t an actor. Moreover, I was born delicate-looking and didn''t seem at all intimidating. I wasn''t sure if I could properly y the role of a military officer.


    What if my performance wasnt convincing enough and made things worse?


    Still, now that things had gotten to this point, there was nothing else we could do.


    Seeing that the man in the Kumamon t-shirt was as calm as always, I was reassured.


    As long as hes here, nothing will go wrong!


    When hed quietly appeared in our hotel room a few days ago, hed already predicted that wede looking for him today. In front of such skills, I can only prostrate myself in admiration!


    In the evening, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt forbade Li Mazi from eating. "From now on until tomorrow morning, youre not allowed to touch food."


    Li Mazi knew that it was for his own good and didn''tin.


    To prevent Li Mazi from secretly eating any food, we moved all edible things into the warehouse. Moreover, we were told to remove everything that could be bitten or swallowed from the room, including candles and whatnot.


    I asked the mysterious man, "Whats the purpose of what were doing?"


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt replied, "Tonight, Li Mazi won''t be Li Mazi. He''ll try to eat everything he can get his hands on and throw up. If he seeds, itll be over for him. He''ll vomit his intestines out."


    Li Mazi subconsciously covered his mouth, frightened to death.


    While waiting, I asked him curiously, "Howe were using this method to deal with the Human Bones Ne?"


    It didn''t feel like a Daoist technique, but something that merchants of otherworldly items would use.


    As far as I knew, Daoist priests would use peach-wood swords or spells to deal with demons and monsters.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt didn''t reply. However, the Daoist child interjected, "Youre also part of the circle of otherworldly items, and yet, youve never heard of Senior Brother''s name? Youre really inexperienced."


    I was startled.This mysterious man is also a merchant of otherworldly items?


    I asked him, "May I know your name?"


    The Daoist child smiled smugly, but just as he prepared to continue, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt red at him and scolded him. "Enough chit-chat."


    The Daoist child swallowed his words and pouted.


    We waited and waited, but even though the rooster outside started crowing, Li Mazi had yet to do anything strange.


    I got a little impatient and asked, "Will everything go well tonight?"


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt didnt reply. He told us to get into Li Mazi''s room, while he went somewhere with the Daoist child.


    Yin Xinyue wore the pink dress, and she looked absolutely stunning in it. My heartbeat sped up just by ncing at her.


    Li Mazi started drooling and scared her off. She didn''t even dare to approach him, afraid that he might do something inappropriate.


    Since I was exhausted, I decided to lie on the bed, and without realizing it, I fell asleep.


    But, because I was just dozing, even a small movement was enough to wake me up.


    I noticed that Yin Xinyue was asleep beside me, clinging to my arm.


    Seeing her lovely face, I subconsciously stretched out my hand to caress her cheeks.


    However, just as I focused on Yin Xinyue, I heard the gnashing of teeth. It came from Li Mazi''s direction!

 Chapter 34: Bringing Justice

    Chapter 34: Bringing Justice


    My heart skipped a beat, and I focused my attention on Li Mazi, who was lying on the bed and making strange sounds.


    Whats he doing? Gnashing his teeth?


    No, perhaps he was trying to vomit!


    I woke up Yin Xinyue, and after seeing Li Mazi, she also panicked. "Quickly stop him! He''s trying to vomit! This is the same method I used when I was trying to lose weight!"


    I dashed forward and held Li Mazi down.


    Maybe it was because hed been lying face-down for a long time, but Li Mazi''s face was red, and his mouth was full of blood. Hed definitely bitten his tongue, although the gravity of the injury was still unknown.


    Seeing my military officer outfit, he was frightened and curled up in one corner of the bed, not daring to utter a word.


    Yin Xinyue coughed, signaling to me that it was time to start the performance.


    However, I was no professional, and I was afraid that shedugh at me.


    But, before I could even say my lines, Li Mazi muttered, "Hungry, hungry..."


    Shortly after, he bit at the sheets and stuffed them into his mouth.


    The bed sheets didn''t seem to satisfy him. He soon gave up on eating them and started to pace. Moreover, his posture was very strange. His feet were bent at a strange angle. I didnt even know when hed broken them!


    After rummaging through the room, he was unable to find anything edible. Finally, his vision fell on my body. "Meat... I want to eat meat..."


    In the next moment, he pounced toward me.


    I was caught off guard and was pinned to the ground. I struggled, but Li Mazi''s strength was astonishing. No matter how much I struggled, I couldn''t break free.


    Yin Xinyue was also frightened. She thought of getting Li Mazi off my body, but there was no way she could seed with her strength.


    "Say your lines, quick!" Yin Xinyue was on the verge of tears.


    Unfortunately, I couldn''t say my lines with Li Mazi choking me!


    Yin Xinyue ran toward the door. "I''ll go look for the Daoist priest!"


    However, the mysterious man had locked the door from the outside, and there was no way to open it.


    Yin Xinyue''s face was covered in sweat. Atst, she mustered her courage and shouted, "Father!"


    During the Han Dynasty, no one had used terms like ''dad'' or ''daddy'', and the man in the Kumamon t-shirt had advised us to only use ''father''.


    Surprisingly enough, Yin Xinyue''s shout was really effective. Li Mazi''s hold weakened.


    Although my throat was still sore, I shouted, "Chao Cuo, youre really daring! Do you want to revolt?!"


    Li Mazi''s body shivered. He looked at me with fearful eyes, and his hold weakened further.


    I stood up and held my head high. "Chao Cuo, the Emperor judged you as guilty! Youre to be executed by getting cut in two at the waist. However, seeing that you served the Emperor well in the past, you have the right to make onest request. Speak quickly!"


    "This vassal..." Chao Cuo knelt and looked at me with fearful eyes.


    "This vassal... is innocent."


    "How bold! The Emperor found you guilty, and yet you still dare to speak such nonsense?! Whatever! Such being the case, you''ll be executed immediately!" I said my lines and prepared to take action.


    "Wait!" Chao Cuo gasped for breath. "This vassal... would like to see his child. Please, grant this request of mine."


    "Very well. I''ll grant this wish of yours. Father, you can now get to know your daughter!" At the same time, I winked at Yin Xinyue.


    Yin Xinyue squeezed out a tear. She was truly a professional who could cry at will!


    She knelt in front of Chao Cuo and burst into tears. "Father, your daughter hase to see you."


    Chao Cuo also wept. He gently wiped Yin Xinyue''s tears and said, "My child, forgive this ipetent father of yours who couldn''t see you grow up."


    "Father, I don''t me you. You can go without worries."


    "My child, don''t think about avenging your father. Live a happy life, and apany your mother."


    Yin Xinyue sobbed. "Father, don''t worry. You can go in peace."


    "Please, tell your mother that if theres a next life, I''ll do my best to repay her kindness."


    "Father, you don''t need to worry about a thing."


    "Wait, something isn''t right..." Chao Cuo pushed Yin Xinyue away and grabbed his head. "You aren''t my child. My child has yet to be born, how can you?"


    Seeing that we were about to be discovered, I roared, "Chao Cuo, time is up. ept your fate! Moreover, this is indeed your daughter. Not only did you fail to witness her birth, but youre even trying to push the me on her?!"


    Chao Cuo sighed. "My child, your father was wrong."


    Seeing that Chao Cuo had believed my words, I took out an axe soaked in eel blood and mercilessly hit Li Mazi''s waist.


    Li Mazi called out in pain, rolled his eyes, and crumbled to the ground.


    He kept starting at Yin Xinyue as he passed out, but his wrathful face was now filled with smiles.


    Wed brought him justice!


    In the meantime, the door was pushed open, and the mysterious man came in, stuffing some salt into Li Mazi''s mouth.


    Shortly after, Li Mazi coughed and woke up.


    The first thing he did was to cough all the salt out. He coughed so fiercely that even his tears and saliva were running.


    After drinking a cup of water, he gasped for breath and looked at me. "What happened? Did you seed?"


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt nodded. "Now, you only have to defecate the Human Bones Ne."


    "Defecate?" Li Mazi was embarrassed. "Can my virgin butt even defecate something that big?"


    I said, "If you don''t want to, you can leave it in your belly. Maybeter generations will one day find your legacy."


    In the end, Li Mazi took somexatives and stayed in the toilet for 3-4 hours, defecating the Human Bones Ne.


    After washing the ne a few times, we said goodbye to Song Longji and returned to maind China. We entrusted the ne to Yin Xinyue, who then gave it to her boss.


    However, I still urged her not to use it. Although wed managed to get rid of Chao Cuo''s resentment, it was still an otherworldly item; nothing good would happen if it was used for a prolonged period of time.


    Some timeter, thepany that had hired usunched a group of young stars that rose to fame overnight, bing a hot topic on several entertainment-rted websites.


    The boss of thepany was extremely pleased and added an extra million to the reward. We gained four million renminbi[1] altogether, which Li Mazi and I divided equally.


    Still, I wasn''t happy with this money. I wasn''t sure if Id helped or harmed the other party.


    Human greed knew no bounds, and people would never stop chasing fame and money. One day, the Human Bones Ne would strike again


    [1] Four million renminbi is around 570,000 USD.

 Chapter 35: A Strange Deal

    Chapter 35: A Strange Deal


    Li Mazi got two million renminbi from the Human Bones Ne deal.


    He then borrowed another 500,000 renminbi from me and contacted a famous hospital in the United States of America, bringing his son there to treat his illness.


    As for me, it was still the boring life in the antique shop.


    Yin Xinyue would call me and drop in for a treat almost every day.


    I didnt really understand her.What is her final purpose? Im just amon Joe she could find anywhere. What does she even like about me...?


    I felt that I had to keep some distance from her. Otherwise, Id sink further into this and get hurt.


    She came from the entertainment business, and there was no helping it. The possibility of us being together was extremely low.


    But, what was the best method to keep some distance? If I were too frank, I might hurt her. Im no expert when ites to rtionships.


    Today, Yin Xinyue came again, bringing me some autographed CDs. She smiled and said, If you hang them in your antique shop, theyd definitely add a touch of positiveness to the ce.


    I smiled. What worries me the most is having too much positiveness in the shop. Im a collector of otherworldly items, which are best preserved in an environment full of negative energy. Therefore, it would be bad if theres too much positiveness.


    Yin Xinyue didnt really buy my exnation.


    Anyway, since it was a gift, I had no choice but to keep the CDs.


    At noon, she stayed for lunch. She didnt want to go to a restaurant and asked me to fry some vegetables. Begrudgingly, I put on an apron and became a housewife.


    I cooked her a te of vegetables with meat, mushrooms, and spicy diced chicken. In my eyes, those dishes were very ordinary, but Yin Xinyue enjoyed them as if she were enjoying a meal from a five-star restaurant. She praised me nonstop. These dishes are amazing, I wish could enjoy such meals for the rest of my life!


    My heart skipped a beat.Did she just confess to me? How am I supposed to reply?


    Luckily, a customer came to my shop, which eased the awkward atmosphere.


    It was an old man in his sixties wearing farmer clothes. He stood at the entrance of the shop with a ck cloth in his hand. He looked inside, and after seeing me, he shyly came over. Excuse me, do you buy antiques here?


    I replied, Yes.


    The old farmer nodded. I have a small item here. Could you check it out and tell me its worth?


    Then, he entered the shop.


    Seeing that I had a customer at my door, Yin Xinyue quickly collected the dishes on the table. I hadnt expected that a noble woman like her had also learned how to manage a house.


    The old farmer ced the ck cloth on the table and carefully opened it. Its a family heirloom. My grandsons really sick, and we need money for his surgery. Thats why I decided to sell this precious item.


    I smiled at him, giving an understanding look.


    I knew that the old man was very likely pretending, but I was still left puzzled.What year are we living in? People still resort to such old tricks to deceive others? I guess he isnt a professional scammer...


    If he isnt a professional scammer, it''ll be easy for me to talk it out.


    The ck cloth was opened, revealing some old newspapers which were charred as though theyd been burned.


    I didnt know what he was thinking, but he did put a lot of effort into the details. Hed even prepared the burned newspapers to make everything look more authentic. Just for that, I would give him a 99/100 score!


    However, after the old farmer unwrapped all theyers of the newspaper, my eyes brightened.


    Under theyers of newspapery a dark green hexagonalmp!


    I could tell at a nce that the smallmp was carved from ancient jade. The elegant but meticulous details gave people an ancient feeling. The handle was ck and worn out, which further showed how extraordinary themp was.


    Whether it was faux or not, I was sure it was very precious.


    As an antique dealer, the skill of wearing a poker face was essential. I suppressed my excitement and picked up the littlemp to observe it better.


    As soon as I touched it, a feeling of warmth flowed into my body. The feeling was real, and themp also seemed to be the real deal.Is this guy really a desperate old farmer that wants to sell his family heirloom for some money? Are the heavens smiling down on me?


    I scrutinized the item over and over again, but didnt find anything suspicious.


    Two thoughts came to mind. First, themp was made from an expert who excelled at manufacturing fake goods, and the old mans performance was Oscar-worthy. Second, Id been incredibly lucky and had chanced upon a national treasure.


    From what I remember, there was a simrmp in Xian Museum.


    It was a jademp from the Warring States Period. During that period, people had just started to focus on jade ware. As such, thatmp was the firstmp ever crafted, and its price wasnt inferior to ten million renminbi!


    Although themp in my hands didnt date back to the Warring States Period, it was still an item of the Pre-Qin Period. If it was the real deal, it would possibly be worth five or six million renminbi.


    Of course, there was still a chance that I was being duped.


    But, even if it was just a counterfeit, I could still sell it for 500,000 or 600,000 renminbi. As far as I was concerned, it was a huge stroke of good luck!


    Boss, how is it? The old farmer looked at me, nervously. How much is it worth?


    I hesitated a little before saying, The handle of themp is ck, did it oxidize? I havent seen ancient jade oxidizing before.


    The old farmer hurried to exin. Its not oxidation. My house caught fire in the past, and the item was identally burned on that asion. Thats why the handle is ck.


    Iughed. Old man, if its charred because of fire, I could just wipe it clean with my thumbs. Tell me, could you wipe this?


    The old farmer blushed, forcing an embarrassed smile. He seemed really in need of money. He gritted his teeth and continued, Boss, Im not really an expert, and I have no idea if its oxidized or not. I only wish to know what themp is worth.


    I looked at the farmer. Name a price! Its not like Ive taken a fancy to your item, I just want to help you since youre in need.


    The old man looked touched. 100,000 renminbi, how does that sound?


    I smiled and returned themp to him. Uncle, I can introduce you to the newly opened shop over there. The shopkeeper is a rookie and needs a lot of stuff. I believe you can sell them themp at a good price. Turn left once you leave, bye.


    The old farmer took the bait. Wait! Boss, give me a price. I dont really understand how this business works, but if your price is good, Ill sell you the item. My grandsons still waiting in the surgery room. We need money for his operation.


    I grabbed his hands and his palms turned out to be covered with calluses. I was somewhat moved and decided not to rip him off.


    However, I couldnt give him a high starting price. Otherwise, hed realize that the item was good and bargain further. If that happened, I wouldnt be able to settle it with just 100,000 renminbi.


    I gritted my teeth and said, How about 50,000 renminbi?


    This amount of money wasnt much for me. After all, I was someone who donated more than 100,000 renminbi to the Red Cross every year. I could just consider this money as an additional donation.


    Still, I didnt expect that the old man would agree right away.


    After receiving the money, he left in a hurry.


    Yin Xinyue carefully looked at the jademp. Little Brother, tell me honestly. How much is thismp worth?


    Iughed. Im not sure. Ill have to see what the market price is, but Im sure I''m not going to suffer a financial loss.


    Yin Xinyue tossed the jademp back to me. Boring, and here I thought that you were a kind-hearted man helping someone in need.


    I didnt know whether tough or cry. Youre too naive. How can you tell that the old farmer wasnt trying to deceive me? The world is full of dishonest people, and if you get tricked, you might lose everything.


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Alright, I believe you. But, even if you were to go bankrupt one day, I can just support you financially, alright?


    In the next moment, she blushed, realizing that shed said something inappropriate. She found an excuse and left.


    As for me, I looked at the jademp again.If this thing is real, Ive made a fortune. The profit isnt going to be inferior to that of an otherworldly item!


    But, as soon as I thought of the words otherworldly item, my heart skipped a beat.


    My shop doesn''t really collect antiques, but otherworldly items instead...


    There were so many antique shops in this street. Why did the old farmere to me? This is a bit suspicious.


    I went out to make inquiries and discovered that the old farmer hadnt gone to any other shops to check the price. Now, I was even more worried, because if hede straight to me, he had ulterior motives!


    Hed probably made inquiries beforehand and knew that I collected otherworldly items. That was why hede straight to me.


    I needed to be extra careful. If he hadnt told me the truth, then it was because he was afraid that I wouldnt ept his otherworldly item!


    There was only one category of otherworldly items that I wouldnt want to buy... items that could kill people!


    I got a sudden urge to get rid of themp.

 Chapter 36: Burning Paper Money As An Offering To The Dead

    Chapter 36: Burning Paper Money As An Offering To The Dead


    It turned out that Id guessed correctly. Ever since Id bought the ancient jademp, my series of unfortunate events also started.


    Every time I crossed the street, I would hear someone calling my name. But, whenever I turned around to check, I wouldnt see any familiar faces. Because of this, I was almost run over several times.


    A few dayster, a thief broke into my house, stealing my household registration booklet, ID, and even credit card. I was so mad that I cursed him nonstop.


    Of course, it didnt end there. One day, I was smoking inside the shop, and the cigarette ash ignited the window curtain. Luckily, the neighbors helped me extinguish the fire, or else I wouldve gone to hell together with this antique shop of mine.


    Later on, I drank some foreign wine, which gave me gastrointestinal perforation.


    In the end, I could only dig a hole and bury the jademp, covering it with quicklime in the hopes that it would absorb some of themps negative energy.


    At the same time, I tried to find a buyer. I wanted to get rid of it as soon as possible.


    It wasnt that I didnt want to use my skills to get rid of the resentment permeating themp, the problem was that I knew nothing about it and had no idea where to start.


    To deal with the resentment, I had to start from the items origin. However, in this case, I knew nothing about themp, and I had no idea about what it could do, either. As such, getting rid of it was the fastest and safest to deal with it.


    After burying the jademp, things calmed down for a period of time. Unfortunately, it didntst long. One weekter, when I opened my door in the morning, I found paper ash at the entrance.


    At first, I thought that it was just a mischievous kid burning paper at my door for fun. I didnt really pay attention to it and decided to sweep it away.


    But, while sweeping, I found the colorful drawing of a male doll amidst the ashes. This was paper burned as an offering to the dead!


    Fuck! Burning paper as an offering to the dead in front of my shop? Isnt this the same as cursing me and wishing me to die?!


    After cleaning up the ashes, I asked the security staff down the street if theyd seen anyone burning paper in front of my shop yesterday.


    The answer made my scalp go numb.


    They said that I was the one that had burned the paper.


    Scared out of my wits, I handed them a cigarette each, asking, Brothers, are you sure that was me and not someone else?


    The security staffughed. Boss Zhang, we even greeted you at that time. Its not like youve just opened your shop here. How could we mistake you for someone else?


    I smiled awkwardly. Haha, it seems that I drank too much yesterday.


    I left in low spirits.


    For several days in a row, I found traces of burned paper at my door. Maybe it was because of the wind, but the ashes had scattered.


    I was flustered and decided to investigate the matter.


    There was a chance that it was rted to the jademp!


    On the day that I was preparing to take action, Yin Xinyue paid me another visit. She noticed my strange expression and asked, Are you feeling unwell?


    I forced a smile. Theres something wrong with that damned jademp.


    As soon as I mentioned this strange matter, Yin Xinyues interest was aroused. She urged me to borate.


    I knew that shed pester me until morning if I didnt tell her. As such, I narrated the unfortunate events Id experienced over the past few days.


    I didnt expect that shed be even more excited. Its been a long time since Ive experienced something as excited as this. Im going to apany you tonight.


    I didnt know whether tough or cry. Beauty, its not like Im going to a party. Why would you want to stay here? Be careful, or else, you might see a ghost.


    Yin Xinyue said, delighted, Thats why I want to apany you! Mypany is working on a horror movie, and as a producer, I was worried that I wouldnt have enough inspiration.


    Great, another person to bother me tonight!


    I was nning to spend the whole night outside to see who was burning paper before my shop. But now, as Yin Xinyue wanted to go with me, I had to rent the opposite shop. Tonight, wed observe the situation from there.


    I wasnt sure what was wrong with Yin Xinyues head, but shed even brought over a video camera. I want to record everything that happens tonight. Hopefully, I can add the integral version with no cuts to the movie. Ill make sure to give you your shareter.


    I could only helplessly look at Yin Xinyue, who was enjoying herself.


    After dinner, I took over the opposite shop from the other proprietor and shut the doors and windows, leaving only a small crack. Yin Xinyue ced the camera outside, seemingly nning to let it record for the whole night.


    I didnt stop her and sat on the sofa, looking at my phone.


    Yin Xinyue was super excited as she paced back and forth in the room. From time to time, shed check the situation outside through the crack in the door. However, she could only endure until around 11 PM. She then got sleepy andy on the sofa, falling asleep.


    Over the past few days, even the weather had gone crazy. There were strong winds, and the temperature had dropped sharply. I put a thick nket over Yin Xinyue and went to check the situation outside.


    The security staff were still patrolling outside, but they were about to go home. If anything strange was going to happen, it would be now.


    To avoid missing the key event, I moved a bench before the crack in the door and sat there.


    The wind wasnt giving any sign of stopping, and the different shades of leaves and trees wiggled and danced about on the street. Sometimes, one or two stic bags would fly through the street.


    The current background and atmosphere were no different from that of a Hong Kong horror movie.


    Then, I suddenly heard something. Startled, I pricked up my ears. Too bad that the wind was howling too loudly, and I couldnt hear clearly. Still, I vaguely heard a woman sobbing.


    Its reallyte at night. Howe theres a woman crying in front of my shop?


    I slightly pushed the door open, increasing the width of the crack to have a better look. And, what I saw next was a round eye gazing at me from the slit!


    I shrieked and fell on my butt. When I looked again, the eye was nowhere to be seen.


    Heavens, what was that?!


    My shriek woke Yin Xinyue up. She hurriedly asked, What happened?


    I signaled her to keep quiet. Then, I gritted my teeth and kicked the door open.


    When I saw a paper doll hung on the camera outside, I heaved a sigh of relief.


    It turned out that Id just seen the eye of the paper doll!


    Although this was mainly an antique street, there were other shops as well. On the West end, there was a shop selling paper money and dolls to burn as an offering to the dead. Sometimes, they didnt store all the items away after closing.


    Well, the strong wind probably blew one of their items here


    Iforted Yin Xinyue, telling her that it was just a false rm, and prepared to close the door.


    But, all of a sudden, I felt that there was something wrong.


    In the distance, a bunch of paper objects, including seven or eight paper dolls, were moving in my direction amidst the wind.


    However, it didnt feel like it was the wind blowing them over.


    If it was the wind dragging them, theyd tumble along the way, but the paper dolls were moving in a formation. It seemed as if someone was controlling them and pushing them forward!


    Finally, they ended up in front of my shop.


    How unlucky! I scoffed and prepared to ignore them. But then, I heard a scream inside my shop.


    It was the high-pitched shriek of a woman. The scream was so sudden that I was scared shitless and almost tripped. Yin Xinyue hurried to support me. Whats going on?


    I asked her, D-Did you hear something just then?


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. Except for the wind, I didnt hear anything.


    She then looked at me in puzzlement.


    However, her expression quickly changed. Her jaw dropped as she stared and pointed behind me.

 Chapter 37: Myriad Corpses Lamp

    Chapter 37: Myriad Corpses Lamp


    "Whats wrong? I asked.


    "Your shops on fire!


    My body shook as if Id received an electric shock. When I turned around, I noticed that the paper objects gathered in front of my shop were burning. The scene looked especially scary in the quiet of the night.


    When paper burned, the mes should be light yellow. In this case though, they were red, and theyd dyed my whole antique shop in a blood-red light.


    One had to keep in mind that only souls permeated with incredibly strong resentment would emit mes of this color!


    Is it possible that a very strong soul resides in the jademp?


    I continued to observe. The locked door of my shop suddenly opened, and a bloody eye gazed at me through the red mes.


    There was no pupil, only the sclera and a trickle of blood at the corners. It was filled with endless hate that it wished to release.


    I didnt have the guts to watch further. I turned around and firmly closed the door, leaning against it and gasping for breath.


    Yin Xinyue asked me, What happened? Why are you sweating like that?


    I replied, Im fine, its nothing.


    Yin Xinyue pondered for a while and then asked, astonished, Is there an otherworldly item at your ce? Did you collect another one?


    I waved my hand hastily, signaling her not to make a fuss.


    Yin Xinyue seemed discontent, but her voice was full of excitement. Why didnt you tell me earlier? Ive been looking for something stimting since we returned from Hong Kong. If Id known earlier, I wouldve invited my friends here and shown them a new world.


    I reprimanded her, Dont speak. Listen to the movements outside, and dont make that thinge to our door.


    Yin Xinyue nodded and stuck her ear to the door, listening carefully.


    However, the world outside had already quieted down. There was no hint of sound, and even the howling of the wind was barely audible.


    Once again, I pushed the door open and peeked at my antique shop through the crack. The paper objects were already burned to a crisp, and the bloody eye was nowhere to be seen.


    That bloody eye earlier was too surreal... was I hallucinating?


    After waiting for a while and confirming that there was no danger, I opened the door and told Yin Xinyue to bring back the camera shed set up outside. We had to check the recording.


    Id heard that souls with strong resentment could affect even electronic devices. As such, there was a chance that the camera had captured their silhouette!


    But, after carefully reying the recording a few times, I heard neither the shriek of the woman nor saw the bloody eye.


    Disappointed, I was about to ask Yin Xinyue to turn the camera off when the screen suddenly shook.


    I gazed at it, feeling that something was fishy.


    Then, a horrifying face suddenly popped up on the screen, opening its mouth wide and twisting its face into a creepy smile.


    The figure was very close to the camera, and its face filled the entire screen.


    That face scared me out of my wits, and I was able to recover only after a while. I asked Yin Xinyue to stop the video and started searching my memories.


    Atst, I remembered whose face was that, and I was filled with fury.Fuck! Isnt that the old farmer that sold me the jademp?!


    Why did he appear here in the middle of the night? Hes definitely rted to the strange events Ive been experiencing thesest few days!


    I sprang the door open and dashed out. The anger made me forget all fear. I roamed in the dark night, looking for the old farmer.


    It seemed that he knew about themps strangeness and deliberately tried to harm me.


    Yin Xinyue followed behind me. Did you discover anything?


    I said, Someone is trying to harm me, and theres a chance I might die.


    Yin Xinyue was finally scared. If you dont have a solution, how about asking that Daoist priest in Hong Kongs Mitu Temple for help?


    I didnt want to bother the mysterious man. If there was a first time, thered be a second, and then a third. It would end up harming my business and career if it became a habit.


    I declined her suggestion. No need... but, I wont just sit by and wait for death. Ill find a way to counterattack.


    Yin Xinyue was very excited and hurried to cheer me up.


    Later, we didnt return to my shop and spent the rest of the night in the shop Id rented.


    Seeing me exhausted, she offered to give me a massage to relieve my fatigue. I couldn''t resist the temptation and epted her offer. Iy on the sofa while she opened her legs and sat on my back, giving me a massage.


    I probably wouldnt forget that feeling for the rest of my life. The ambiguous atmosphere and the feeling of ecstasy that came along with her intoxicating fragrance...


    The night passed, and as soon as the sky brightened, I hurried back to my shop.


    Everything looked normal. The interior of the shop hadnt changed a bit. I observed the area where Id buried the jademp, and there was no change, either.


    I unearthed the jademp and wiped away the quicklimeyer. Themp looked the same, except that the ck on the handle had faded a little.


    After seeing the fading ck, a name suddenly appeared in my head: Myriad Corpses Lamp!


    This name was like a bomb exploding in my head. My mind went nk. If it was really the Myriad Corpses Lamp, I was in great trouble!


    As the name suggests, the Myriad Corpses Lamp was amp that had been soaked in corpse oil. Not in the oil of one or two corpses, but hundreds of them.


    Jade had a high density, which made it hard for ordinary liquids to seep in. However, corpse oil was an exception. The ck color on the handle was due to the corpse oil seeping into it.


    Since there was some corpse oil that wasnt fully absorbed, it meant that someone had recently died in the hands of the jademp!


    Watching my gloomy countenance, Yin Xinyue couldnt hold back her curiosity and asked, How is it? What happened?


    I took a deep breath and replied, This thing is called a Myriad Corpses Lamp, and its a very dangerous item! You can now go home. Ill stay in the shop to catch ghosts.


    Catch ghosts? That sounds awesome! Im going to apany you. How can I help you?


    You dont need to do anything, I reprimanded her. Go. I dont want to see you get hurt.


    No matter what you say, Im not going to leave. Yin Xinyue smiled and applied some lip gloss to her lips. Ill shamelessly keep pestering you, hehe!


    Hehe. I grimaced and mimicked herughter. Do you really want to help me?


    Of course, Yin Xinyue blurted out. I really I want to help you.


    Good, I said. I want you to bring me several bottles of normal saline solution. The higher the concentration, the better.


    You want an intravenous drip? You know that its not good for your body, dont you?


    I have a use for it. I red at her. Dont talk nonsense if you dont know things.


    Yin Xinyue looked at me, aggrieved, and then left obediently.


    Shortly after, she returned with a bundle of saline solution bottles. This is highly-concentrated normal saline solution.


    I found a bucket and poured all of the solution into it. Then, I threw the jademp into the bucket.


    Around one hourter, the normal saline solution had be turbid. ck liquid had appeared in the water, and after Id fished out the jademp, I found ayer of ck liquid on its surface.


    I gathered the ck liquid and burned it with my lighter. The liquid slowly burned, gradually turning from ck to blood red. In the end, only some fragments were left.


    I gasped. Its indeed a Myriad Corpses Lamp!


    How mysterious. Yin Xinyue gawked. Its my first time seeing impurities getting extracted from jade ware.


    I asked her, Do you know what this ck thing is?


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. No, I dont.


    Its corpse oil, I said. To be more precise, its the oil collected from roasting a dead body thats no more than five days old.


    Yin Xinyue was dumbstruck.


    I continued, It seems Ill really need your help tonight


    Yin Xinyue asked, What can I help you with?


    I smiled. Ill keep it a secret for now as I dont want to scare you. Youll know in due time.


    I went to that shop selling paper objects and brought some dolls, money, houses, and jewelry made of paper. Once home, I waited for night to fall.


    Yin Xinyue asked me, Why do we need to act at night? Isnt it safer to do it in broad daylight?


    I replied, It would indeed be safer, but also useless. The soul residing in the jademp isnt going toe out in broad daylight. How are you supposed to catch it if it doesn''t even appear?


    Yin Xinyue nodded, embarrassed.

 Chapter 38: The Oil Lamp Showing the Way

    Chapter 38: The Oil Lamp Showing the Way


    Lunch and dinner were takeaways that Yin Xinyue had ordered. She was rich and didnt care about such a small amount of money. Moreover, shed definitely be displeased if I decided to pay her back.


    When night fell, I ced the jademp at the front of my antique shop, and at around 11 PM, that cold wind started to blow again.


    I gathered all the paper objects Id bought in the morning and set them on fire, cing a mirror in front of them.


    Then, I started to observe the scenery reflected in the mirror.


    At first, everything was normal. But, as time passed, the mes in the mirror became blood red, starting to burn more fiercely. The mes rose higher and higher, increasing the surrounding temperature.


    Thereafter, I saw a red shadow within the mes.


    It was the spirit of the item. I observed with rapt attention, but I was scared out of my wits when the spirit walked out of the mes.


    Her body was dripping with corpse oil, looking like a rotten tangerine, and her face was especially scary: yellow skin, half bald, lips burnt away, and teeth clearly visible.


    I couldnt help but gasp in horror.


    Seeing her so close to me, I had goosebumps all over my body.


    I looked at Yin Xinyue through the mirror; she stood beside the mes, perfectly calm.


    She had no idea what was going on since there was no way to see the ghost with the naked eye, and my body was blocking the picture in the mirror.


    It was time to act. Yin Xinyue, now!


    Yin Xinyue took out a lighter and lit themp.


    Inside the jademp was the wonder oil Id bought in the ck market earlier today, which was also known as corpse oil.


    Since I didnt want to scare her, I told Yin Xinyue that it was just normalmp oil.


    Seeing the ghost closing in on me, I was scared to no end, but didnt dare to act rashly as I was afraid of rming it. If that happened, everything wouldve been for naught.


    Luckily, Yin Xinyue was able to light the jademp in time.


    The ghost nced at me, somewhat aggrieved, and eventually turned around, entering themp.


    Themps me danced wildly and finally pointed outside.


    I was delighted and told Yin Xinyue to follow the me. She didnt waste time and followed my orders.


    The reason Id asked her to hold the jademp was that she was a woman. She had a strong Yin attribute, and she wouldnt scare off the female ghost in themp.


    I kept a distance of three meters from her and followed at a moderate pace.


    Shortly after, we left the antique street and headed toward a deserted area.


    I furrowed my brow and thought to myself:This is somewhat unexpected. Wasnt the female ghost supposed to head back home? Theres only an abandoned school in this direction...


    I took a deep breath, afraid that things might get dangerous. Yin Xinyues safety worried me the most.


    The me gradually became red, another reason to worry.The female ghost is definitely not heading home. Is there something in that abandoned school that shes concerned about?


    It was very quiet along the way, and stray cats would pop out once in a while and scare us to death with their shrill cries.


    Eventually, we got to the abandoned school and stopped at the entrance. Just as I was wondering what was going on, a shrill cry was transmitted from the other side of the iron gate.


    Next, a white shadow fell from the iron gate,nding right at my feet.


    I gasped and saw that it was a white cat.


    The white cat was skinny and covered with filth, no different from a stray cat.


    I figured out what was happening.This cat is what the female ghost was worrying about is it her pet?


    The white cat knelt using its forelegs and kowtowed to us. Then, two trickles of tears rolled down from the corners of its eyes.


    Yin Xinyue looked at me, worried. I nodded and signaled her to keep following the me.


    This time around, the me was pointing in the direction that wede from.


    As such, we could only head back, with the dirty white cat following behind. The jademp finally led us to a vi.


    I heaved a sigh of relief.If Im not mistaken, this should be the ghosts home.


    I took a deep breath and went forward to knock on the door.


    The interior of the vi was dark. It seemed that the owner was already fast asleep.


    Should I shout and wake the owner up?


    After knocking several times, I finally heard the sound of footsteps. I thought that the other party would open the door, but they just paced back and forth in the living room without turning the lights on.


    I frowned.Did wee to the wrong ce?


    I looked at themps me, and it was still pointing at the vi. So, it was the right ce.


    When I was at my wits end, the gentle voice of a woman came from the vi. Whos there?


    Hello, may I ask if any of your family members are missing? I hurried to ask.


    After a moment of silence, the rude voice of a man said, No, you came to the wrong ce.


    Shortly after, we heard the muffled cry of a woman. When I heard the cry, my scalp went numb. It didnt seem like the cry of a human, but the howling of a ghost instead.


    Yin Xinyue tugged on the hem of my shirt and asked, worried, Brother Zhang, the me is dying. What do we do?


    I checked themp, and the me was flickering as if it was about to extinguish.


    I had a headache. If the me died out, the female ghost would be free to roam around, which would put us in great danger.


    I told Yin Xinyue, Dont let the me die out. Lets leave this ce first, theres something wrong about it.


    I turned around and left, with Yin Xinyue closely following me.


    But, right at that moment, the faint voice of a woman arose from the vi. Dont leave! Hehe dont leave!


    I was even more sure that there was something wrong with the vi!


    I cursed at the ghost in themp.I went through all this trouble to fulfill yourst wish, but you actually brought me to a haunted house?! Fuck you!


    After two steps, Yin Xinyue cried out, Brother Zhang! T-The me died out


    What? It died out? I frowned and turned around to check. Sure enough, themps me hadpletely died out.


    My face darkened.


    I grabbed Yin Xinyues hand and shouted, Run!

 Chapter 39: Head South and Dont Look Back

    Chapter 39: Head South and Don''t Look Back


    The neighborhood only had vis with the same structure, and there was nothing I could use as andmark. We could only grope around in the dark since we hadnt paid any attention to the road on our way here.


    While running, I heard the sound of footsteps behind us. From the frequency, it didnt seem like one person, but three.


    Where did these peoplee from?!I didnt dare to turn my head, but couldnt suppress my curiosity, either. Eventually, I spotted a convex mirror at a turn ahead.


    I raised my head and looked into it.


    In the next moment, I was scared out of my wits.


    The three had scorched bodies, charred skin, and no eyes. Their faces couldnt be seen clearly.


    They were very close, and they would catch up to us with just a few steps.


    Yin Xinyue was so scared that she was almost crying. She asked me, terrified, W-Who are they?


    I shouted, Dont waste time talking, run!


    We ran in a straight line, and I refused to believe that we couldnt get away from the ce.


    However, I was proven wrong. In the end, we still ended up in front of that vi...


    A faint voice whispered, Come in, have a seat. Hehe...


    As the saying goes, even ghosts were afraid of evil people!


    I felt that I had to man up and show that I wasnt someone so easy to deal with. Otherwise, the other party would just grow increasingly arrogant!


    I shouted, I was kind enough to bring you back home, but you actually want to harm me?! Do you really think that I dont have the means to deal with you?!


    Hehe. Come in, have a seat, the female voice whispered again.


    Yin Xinyue asked with tears in her eyes. What should we do?


    I braced myself and said, Keep running.


    As soon as I said that, I heard the sound of quick footstepsing from the vi. Someone was running down from the second floor and seemingly heading toward us.


    The sound was pretty loud, and it didnt seem to belong to a ghost.Is there a person in the vi?


    While I was deep in thought, a voice came from the vi. Zhang Jiulin!


    Did someone just call my name?I became even more anxious.


    I stared at the devilish gate in a daze.


    In the end, the gate was pushed open from the inside, and a slender figure walked out.


    It was a man with an expressionless face and a fringe that covered one side of his face. He also had a long blue sword on his back. After seeing him, I almost cried out in shock.


    Its the mysterious man! But, whats he doing here?


    Before I could speak, he stretched out two fingers and hinted for me to shut up. Dont talk. Head south, and dont look back. Always head straight. Well meet at your antique shop.


    I nodded and grabbed Yin Xinyues hand, heading south.


    The mysterious man closed in on us and reminded me again, Remember, no matter what happens, dont look back. Otherwise, both of you will die! The things in that vi arent something that you can deal with. Even Im a little helpless.


    I was shocked.Whats hiding inside that vi thats causing even the mysterious man to feel helpless?


    Still, I was greatly relieved to see him here.


    I always felt a feeling of warmth when he was around.


    I followed his advice and headed south. Wed be safe once we were inside my antique shop.


    When we were about to leave thepound, Yin Xinyue screamed and squatted on the ground, releasing my hand. I was shocked, and my first thought was to turn around and help her up.


    However, I remembered the words of the mysterious man and decided to inquire first, Yin Xinyue, how are you?


    Yin Xinyue answered, I sprained my ankle, and I cant walk... Zhang Jiulin, carry me on your back.


    "What did you just call me?


    "Zhang Jiulin.


    "Hmm!" I sneered. Youre not Yin Xinyue.


    I called out again, Yin Xinyue, where are you?


    Yin Xinyues voice came from somewhere ahead of me. Brother Zhang, hurry up!


    I cursed under my breath and hurried to catch up with her.


    Fortunately, we managed to leave thepound, and those things didnt chase after us anymore. The surroundings also returned to normal, which put my mind at ease.


    After returning to the antique shop, I turned on all the lights and sat down on the sofa, finally enjoying some peace.


    Yin Xinyue gasped for her breath. Brother Zhang, it was too thrilling! Perhaps even too much! Horror movies and the likes are nothingpared to what we experienced tonight!


    I didnt know whether tough or cry. If you want more thrill, you can always go to that vi again. Im not going to stop you.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. Youre really heartless. Do you n to stand by and watch as a beauty dies?


    I told Yin Xinyue to ce themp on the table and added some other wonder oil to it. Now, I could finally rx.


    Yin Xinyue seemed to have thousands of questions. Why did we go look for that white cat? And, what was the deal with that vi?


    I exined, That white cat should be the pet of the deceased. She was probably worried about it, and thats why she went to look for it.


    As for the vi, Im not too sure, either. However, there must be some huge secret behind it!


    I was still puzzled as to what had happened.The ghost in themp shouldve returned to her home first. Why did she go for the haunted vi instead? Also, why was the man in the Kumamon t-shirt there?


    While I was absorbed in my thoughts, I heard a scratching sound on the anti-theft door of my shop. I tensed up again and firmly stared at the door.


    Who was it this time?


    The scratching noise ceased and was quickly reced by a knock on the door.


    I asked, Whos there?


    The voice of the mysterious man answered from outside the door, Its me.


    Its him? How did he even find this ce...?


    I got up and went to open the door.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt was holding a white cat in his arms and looked exhausted. As soon as it entered the shop, the cat jumped down and dashed toward themp. Ity beside it and closed its eyes, starting to doze off.


    The mysterious man asked, Do you have something to eat?


    I nodded and told him to rest on the sofa. In the meantime, I made him a bowl of noodles with tomato sauce.


    After hed finished eating, he restored his cold countenance.


    I hurriedly asked, What happened earlier? Why were you in that vi?


    The mysterious man said, Id been squatting outside that vi for three days and nights. I didnt even eat or drink. I was waiting for those two souls to appear, and just as I was preparing to subdue them, you rmed them. As a result, the n failed, and I almost lost my life.


    After hearing this exnation, I immediately apologized. I didnt expect that my reckless actions would bring him this much trouble.


    The mysterious man waved it away. It doesnt matter. If something is bound to happen, itll happen. Theres nothing you can do to stop it.

 Chapter 40: Longquan Villa

    Chapter 40: Longquan Vi


    The mysterious man finally looked at themp. Is that the Myriad Corpses Lamp?


    Hed only needed a nce to figure out themps origin. I truly admire his incredible skills.


    I nodded and confirmed, Yes.


    He nodded thoughtfully. Where did you get it? Also, no wonder bad things happened. You had themp with you thiste at night.


    I sighed and narrated everything that Id encountered in the past few days, while Yin Xinyue showed him the video wed recordedst night.


    After watching the video, he frowned and asked, Is there a grudge between you and the people from the Longquan Vi?


    The Longquan Vi? I was puzzled. Id never heard about the Longquan Vi and had no idea what was going on.


    I hurried to inquire, Whats this Longquan Vi? And, why are you saying that theres a grudge between us?


    The mysterious man asked, You really dont know about it?


    I shook my head. I dont.


    At first, I thought that hed give me a brief introduction on the Longquan Vi, but he just said, Thats good. Less trouble.


    But, how could I restrain my curiosity now?


    After Id pestered him nonstop, he finally exined, This Myriad Corpses Lamp belongs to the Longquan Vi. The Longquan Vi is a famous family within the otherworldly item circle, but they have a very bad reputation. Its not exaggerated to say that theyre a family of otherworldly assassins. Theyve epted arge number of assassination missions in the past, and most of the targets were merchants of otherworldly items


    The way they kill is also very special,pletely different from ordinary assassins. They wont shoot or poison you. Instead, theyll sell extremely dangerous otherworldly items to the target and put them to death that way.


    If I hadnt been there today, you two wouldve died in the vi.


    I gasped in shock.


    Yin Xinyue was also dumbfounded.


    Id heard about otherworldly assassins before, but I felt that we lived in two different worlds and that Id never meet them in my life.


    Little did I expect that Id anger them without realizing, almost losing my life in their hands.


    I was so scared that I had goosebumps all over my body.


    Still, howe the man in the Kumamon t-shirt had appeared here?


    Did you already know that the otherworldly assassins were targeting me? Is that why you came here ahead of time? To make preparations?


    He waved his hand and said, Youre overthinking things. I received a mission and was asked to investigate how that family died. I didnt think that Id meet you guys there.


    Right, without coincidences, thered be no story!


    I hurriedly asked, Whats so special in that vi that even youre afraid of it?


    The mysterious man replied, That vi isnt simple. It seems that a lot of people have died there. Tomorrow, you and I will explore that ce and investigate the root of this matter.


    I nodded, expressing my agreement.


    Yin Xinyue also volunteered to go with us. The mysterious man lifted his head. He was about to say something but finally stopped, agreeing to bring her along.


    Since he hadnt slept for three days and nights, I told him to head to the bedroom to rest. However, he insisted on spending the night on the sofa.


    Yin Xinyue and Iy in the bedroom, but neither of us could sleep.


    I couldnt sleep because I was scared, while Yin Xinyue couldnt sleep because she was too excited.


    The Longquan Vi, huh?


    Who did I anger for them to go so far as to hire otherworldly assassins to deal with me? Is it an enemy of my father or grandfather?


    However, both of them were honest merchants. They shouldnt have personal enemies!I forced a smile. The Longquan Vi was like a huge rock pressing on my chest, suffocating me.


    The sky brightened.


    I got out of bed and found the mysterious man meditating on the sofa.


    Afterward, I went out to buy soybean milk and fried twisted dough sticks. After having a simple breakfast, the mysterious man got to work. He asked me to bring over the cat, themps, and two shovels. Then, we headed to thepound from yesterday.


    When we arrived, the mysterious man didnt directly enter the vi but called someone.


    Shortly after, a Mercedes-Benz came over and stopped next to us.


    An obese man with his hair slicked back got out of the car. Looking at his appearance and bearing, he must be a parvenu.


    Is he the man in the Kumamon t-shirts client...?


    The fatty arrived before the mysterious man and asked respectfully, Hows it going? Yesterday, when I heard that things didnt go well, I got a fright. Is everything alright?


    The mysterious man replied, Everythings fine. You just have to bring us into the vi in a while.


    The fatty nodded and asked him about our identities. It seemed that he didnt want too many people to know about this matter.


    The mysterious man casually said, Theyre helpers.


    The fatty didnt ask further. However, I noticed that he was staring at Yin Xinyue.


    Yin Xinyue was truly a femme fatale, and no man could resist her charms.


    Still, she seemed to dislike the other party. She deliberately hugged my arm and walked very close to me. She was warning him: Im already taken, dont bother me!


    The mysterious man brought us to the entrance of the vi, where I spotted traces of blood on the peephole.


    Just as I was about to remind him, I saw him shake his head, signaling me not to talk.


    Although I had no idea what he had in mind, he definitely had his reasons for doing so. I yed along and didnt speak.


    When the fatty opened the door, he also noticed the blood on the peephole. He was frightened and told the mysterious man about his discovery.


    The mysterious man nodded and said, Your cousins family is already dead. Moreover, their death was very tragic. The traces of blood here imply that theyll be unable to find peace unless they can be avenged.


    The fatty broke out in a cold sweat. Then, after wiping the sweat off, he asked, Do ghosts really exist?


    The mysterious man said calmly, Why do you care if ghosts exist or not? Shouldnt you be worried about your cousins life? Didnt you hire me because you wanted to find him?


    The fatty coughed, embarrassed. Yeah Right, how did my cousin die?


    Seeing his strange reaction, I knew that he had an ulterior motive.


    His cousins death is likely rted to him...


    The mysterious man said, I dont know yet. Open the door.


    The fatty followed the order and opened the door, letting us into the vi.


    The ce was cold and gave the onlookers an oppressive feeling. The living room was covered in dust. There were some clean spots as if someone had cleaned part of it and left the rest alone because they didnt have time.


    The mysterious man looked at me and said, Light themp.


    I nodded and lit the jademp.


    Themps me slowly became red and swayed toward a certain direction, even though there was no wind in the room!

 Chapter 41: The Basement

    Chapter 41: The Basement


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt stood on one side and observed the reaction of the fat guy. I also watched him carefully.He was looking at the jademp with a strange expression, full of fear but also excitement.


    Whats he so excited about exactly?I couldnt wrap my head around it.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt said, Lets follow the me.


    He made me lead the way while he and the fatty followed behind.


    Yin Xinyue strode forward to catch up with me. She nervously stared at the me while hugging one of my arms.


    Themp finally led us to the entrance of a basement. The me was pointing toward the door.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt turned around and nced at the fat guy. Whats inside the basement?


    The fatty replied, Some misceneous things of no value that the owner of the house stored there. However, Ive never entered, so I dont know for sure.


    Is that so? The mysterious man didnt seem convinced but refrained from asking further. He stepped forward and forcefully opened the rusty brass lock.


    Then, he kicked the door open. A cold wind blew in our faces, bringing along a horrible stench.


    The basement was dark, and we couldnt see what was inside.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt didnt bother looking and turned around. He arrived in front of the fat man and said, Your cousin and sister-inw are inside. Lets enter.


    However, the fatty suddenly squatted down and burst into tears. Cousin, sister-inw, your lives were really miserable! I brought you here from the countryside so that you could enjoy a happy life, but some bastard killed you! Its all my fault! Ill definitely take revenge for you!


    The mysterious man said, Who told you that theyre dead?


    The fat guy was bewildered. He stopped crying and wiped away his fake tears. Then, he gazed at the mysterious man in shock. A-Are you saying that theyre still alive?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt said, Lets switch the lights on and see.


    Then, he walked to one side and turned on the lights.


    As soon as the light was turned on, a bloody scene appeared before our eyes. There was an old, half-open wooden box in the room, and two bodies had been stuffed inside. It seemed that the victims had been trying to crawl out of it at the point of death.


    Their fingers were spread open, and they had bulging veins on their faces and eyes filled with hate. It was a fearsome sight.


    The fatty shrieked and almost passed out from fright. He lost his bnce and fell on his butt.


    I recalled the strange sound of footsteps Id heard in the vist night.Did the footsteps belong to these two corpses...?


    Cousin, sister-inw, what an awful way to die! The fatty burst into tears again. Its all my fault... I couldnt protect you, I deserve to die! Its all my fault!


    The mysterious man lit a stick of sandalwood and signaled me to go out so that we could talk.


    I followed him, leaving the basement.


    He said, Did you see? The fatty is the one who killed his cousin and sister-inw.


    I took a deep breath. Hes indeed very suspicious, but why are you so sure that it was him? Why would he do that?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt said, I dont know what his motivation was yet, but I feel that were very close to the truth.


    If we cant solve the case, lets report everything to the police, I said. Theres been deaths, and it would be troublesome if were implicated.


    However, the mysterious man shook his head. We cant report it to the police. This case is rted to the Longquan Vi, and you might get into trouble.


    Me? Why? I was startled.


    The jademp, said the man in the Kumamon t-shirt. Didnt you see how the fatty was looking at the jademp? There must be some rtion between him and themp.


    I nodded, expressing my agreement.


    Then, the fat man also came out and asked the mysterious man, Did you find out who killed my cousin and sister-inw? And, wheres my nieces body? Did she escape?


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt shook his head. I dont know yet. Do you think we should report it to the police?


    The fatty started sweating again as he stuttered, N-No need... I-I want to find the murderer myself and mince them into pieces! If we report it to the police, they would, at most, sentence him to death and that wouldnt be enough to appease my cousins soul.


    The mysterious man nodded and asked Yin Xinyue, Can you let go of the white cat in your embrace?


    The cat had been well behaved while in Yin Xinyues arms, but as soon as it touched the ground, it flew into a frenzy and went for the neck of the fatty.


    The fatty started bleeding and couldnt suppress his anger. He grabbed the cat and threw it away while shouting and cursing.


    Luckily, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt was quick to react, or perhaps hed prepared beforehand. He quickly took a step forward and grabbed the cat, pulling it into his embrace. Its just an animal. You dont need to get that angry.


    The fatty reluctantly nodded.


    The mysterious man gently caressed the cat, which slowly calmed down. Then, he whispered something in its ear before putting it on the ground.


    I looked at him, puzzled.Does he speak the catnguage...?


    This time, the white cat behaved much better. It roamed around the vi and finally went outside.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt said, Get the car ready and follow the cat.


    The fatty also wanted to get into our car, but the mysterious man stopped him. Sorry, but we dont have enough seats.


    Not enough seats His face turned blue, red, ck, and then white. However, he still went into his own car in the end.


    After we began following the white cat, Yin Xinyue asked the mysterious man, Just what is going on?


    He answered, That fatty came to me one week ago, saying that his cousin and sister-inw hade to visit him, but had disappeared soon after. He wanted me to investigate their whereabouts.


    I hurried to ask, Wait a minute. Somethings strange here. Why did hee to you?


    The mysterious man hesitated a little before giving me a business card.


    I took the card and read it, bursting intoughter. ording to the business card, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt had a lot of expertise: Geomancy, Divination, Soul Ferrying, Exorcism, etc.


    In short, he covered all sorts of weird practices.


    No wonder he was able to build a temple in Hong Kong, where thend is extremely expensive.


    Still, if this business card is given out in the streets, Im sure that people would mistake him for a swindler!

 Chapter 42: The Truth Is Revealed

    Chapter 42: The Truth Is Revealed


    When the fatty came to me, his be had turned ck, and his vitaliy was also weak. I thought that some vengeance-seeking ghost was pestering him and decided to wait beside the vi in the hopes of finding the root of the issue, said the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    Before you guys came yesterday, everything inside the vi was normal. But, as soon as you showed up, ghosts began appearing. I guessed that it might be due to some otherworldly item you had on you that stimted the ghosts inside the vi. And, it was possible that their deaths were rted to said item.


    Then, when I saw the jademp in your hand, I understood everything, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt continued.


    This jademp was probably the cousins family heirloom. The fatty knew about the pricelessmp, and he pretended to be a good guy, bringing his cousins family to the city to enjoy a good life. However, the truth was that he just wanted to steal themp. Then, his cousin probably caught him during the act, and out of embarrassment, the fatty killed both his cousin and sister-inw. His frightened niece picked up themp and ran away to the abandoned school. The fatty followed her and decided to end things. He raped his niece, killed her, and burned her body. Unfortunately, while burning her corpse, he was careless and dropped themp in the fire. Thats why the jademp looks like it was burned.


    But, when he discovered that the jademp was an otherworldly item that would bring endless bad luck to people, he decided to give it away. Thats why he sold it to you, exined the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    <em>What he said makes sense...</em>


    I wondered, However, theres one thing I dont understand. There are so many shops in that street, so why did the fatty decide to sell it to me?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt shook his head. I dont know yet. Perhaps that fatty is rted to the Longquan Vi.


    <em>Fuck, the Longquan Vi again!</em>


    My heart was in turmoil.


    <em>Who did I offend while doing business? Who wants me dead that badly?</em>


    <em>I must carefully investigate this matter, but I have to find a way to deal with the jademp first.</em>


    So, I asked the mysterious man, Is there any way to return the jademp?


    He hesitated a bit before saying, Thats easy. In a few days, Ill secretly ce themp back in the vi.


    I kept quiet. It turns out that the mysterious man was quite the schemer.


    The white cat led us all the way back to the abandoned school.


    The iron gate was locked, so we could only leave the car and find a way to climb over the wall.


    When the fatty saw the school, his face darkened. He probably had a guilty conscience.


    I red at him, which made him feel awkward. He rushed toward the mysterious man and asked, Is my nieces body inside this school?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt nodded and jumped over the iron gate, getting into the school. The fatty followed suit, but due to him being fat and slow, he failed several times before seeding.


    I grabbed Yin Xinyue, helping her over the gate before following.


    The school had been abandoned for years, and some of the rooms had copsed already. Weeds grew everywhere, and spiderwebs covered most of the ssrooms.


    There was no wind, but the weeds were still leaning to one side, and we could also hear an asional rustling sound.


    The mysterious man kept walking forward, following after the cat.


    Shortly after, the cat stopped in front of a toilet and sat on the ground, meowing in a mournful way.


    The mysterious man stepped forward and looked into the toilet, returning to us immediately after.


    There was definitely something inside the toilet. Out of curiosity, I craned my neck to check, getting a fright from what I saw.


    There was half a female body inside. The reason I said half was because her upper body had been burned until it was unrecognizable. As for her lower body, it was naked and covered with blood. It was truly a shocking sight.


    <em>A young, beautiful girl was tortured and killed inside</em><em>a</em><em>toilet</em>


    My heart ached.


    Yin Xinyues face paled from fright. She gritted her teeth and shouted, If we catch the murderer, we must shoot him dead!


    When the fatty saw the young girls body, he cried bitterly. If people didnt know the inside story, theyd definitely think that he loved his niece and was heartbroken.


    Seeing his performance, I felt nauseated and turned my head away.


    We put the girls corpse into a stic bag and ced it in the car. Along the way, I didnt speak much. I suggested a few times to report the matter to the police, but the man in the Kumamon t-shirt refused, saying that it would just cause us more trouble.


    Still, I felt sick at the thought of that beast freely roaming around without getting any punishment.


    The mysterious manforted me. Sooner orter, that guy will be punished for what hes done.


    After wed returned, the fatty seemed to be in a good mood. He paid the mysterious man 200,000 renminbi for the job, and even held a funeral for his niece to show how much he cared.


    When night fell, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt bid us farewell and carried off the jademp.


    Over the next few days, I paid special attention to the fatty. The mysterious man had already returned the jademp to where it belonged, and I was curious to see if the ghost in themp had found the fat guy and taken her revenge.


    One weekter, something really did happen to him.


    I was reading the newspaper like usual when I found an interesting news article.


    After reading the story, I couldnt help but gasp.


    A fire of unknown origin had spread in the fattys vi, burning him to death.


    Experts said that house owner experienced unbearable pain before his death. Hed crawled for ten or so meters while on fire and died right as he was about to reach the doorstep.


    <em>That</em><em>fire</em><em> i</em><em>t must be rted to the jademp.</em>


    A few dayster, another news report shook our city.


    A white cat wouldy in front of a girls grave every day, not leaving despite the wind or the rain. It seemed that it really missed its master.


    Some people recognized the white cat as the girls pet when she was alive, and the story of the white cat repaying the masters kindness began to spread around.


    Although cats and dogs werent as smart as humans, theyd repay the kindness of their owners even though they were no longer there.


    On the other hand, humans wouldnt hesitate to kill their own rtives under the temptation of wealth and power.


    They truly made us feel ashamed of ourselves!

 Chapter 43: Eyes on the Back

    Chapter 43: Eyes on the Back


    One month after the fatty was burned to death, Li Mazi returned from the United States. Looking at his glowing face, I knew that his sons operation had gone well.


    He told me that his sons bone marrow transnt was sessful, but that hed spent almost all his money. So, he could only bring him back to China to continue the treatment.


    After a while, asked me, Did you seal any deals while I was away?


    I told him about the Myriad Corpses Lamp, and he immediately inquired, How much did you make from that deal?


    I was rendered speechless.Couldnt this guy think of anything else besides money?


    I decided to ignore him.


    Li Mazi saw that I didnt feel like replying, so he didnt ask again.


    In the evening, he came over to my ce with wine and food.


    I was happy for him, so I drank more than usual. When I couldnt resist anymore, Iy on the table and fell asleep.


    When I woke up the next day, I had to pass quite some time vomiting in the toilet.


    It was at that time that I heard someone knocking on the door.


    I frowned.Its just 6 AM, so whod be knocking on my door this early? Is it a customer?


    It had been a month since Ist did business, so I was looking forward to some work.


    I wasnt really in need of money, but I was very curious when it came to otherworldly items; it was almost like an addiction.I wonder if it was due to the things my father and grandfather had taught me when I was younger...


    I opened the door and saw a middle-aged man standing at the entrance. He was wearing a tuxedo with a nice bow tie, and there was a Rolls Royce parked behind him. He resembled the butler of a wealthy family.


    Excuse me, are you Mister Zhang? asked the man.


    I nodded at him.


    In that case, please follow me, said the butler. Someone wants to see you.


    "Who?"


    Youll know when we get there. The butler smiled. Its a big job, I dare say.


    Li Mazi also woke up. Seeing the Rolls Royce Phantom outside, he gasped. Im gonna get rich again!


    I knew that I couldnt afford to offend any rich families, so I gritted my teeth and got into the car with Li Mazi.


    The butler brought us to an entertainment club in the city center.


    Seeing the club, I started to be nervous. The ce was only 500 meters away from the local government building. Money alone wasnt enough to open a club in this super expensive area; one needed to have a certain influence or backing.


    Whos the other party...?


    I was growing increasingly anxious.


    The interior of the club was incrediblyvish with gold-ted ceilings, red carpets, diamond-studded walls... those who could enter this ce were all celebrities. Li Mazi and I were dressed like beggars inparison, and we immediately attracted the attention of the other guests.


    The butler brought us to a luxurious private room and told us to wait there before leaving.


    Li Mazi was overwhelmed by thevish decorations. He looked and touched everything, wishing that he could also live in such a beautiful ce.


    I didnt have the mood to enjoy the view and asked him, somewhat worried, Who do you think wants to see us? Why did they decide to meet us in this ce? Is it someone rted to the Longquan Vi...?


    Maybe I was being paranoid, but the Longquan Vi was very powerful, to the point that even the man in the Kumamon t-shirt was scared of them. I had to constantly be on the alert.


    Li Mazi smiled and hinted for me to calm down. If the Longquan Vi had wanted to deal with you, they wouldve dispatched their assassins already. Why would they invite you to thisvish ce?


    Well, he has a point.I calmed down and kept an eye on the entrance, wondering whod step into the room next.


    When the door was pushed open, a familiar figure appeared before my eyes.


    It was the man in the Kumamon t-shirt!


    He was as cold as usual, and even if he was in such a worldly ce, his lotus-like and detached appearance made my eyes brighten.


    I stood up in excitement. Youre also here?


    He faintly smiled at me, warming my heart despite his stiff smile.


    Li Mazi grinned and greeted him as well. Brother, long time no see. I just came back from the States, and I have a gift for you.


    Then, he took out an iPhone from his bag, giving it to the man in the Kumamon t-shirt. I dont think Ive ever seen you using a mobile phone. So, I decided to get you one.


    The mysterious man nced at him and didnt decline. He even politely nodded at Li Mazi.


    I red at Li Mazi.This guy really knows how to earn someones favor! Still, why have I never received such a gift?!


    They invited you as well? I asked the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    He shook his head and said, Im the one who invited you here.


    What? You invited me here? I was startled. I didnt expect him to be this influential.


    Hed invited us to thisvish ce where only the rich could enter... and here I thought he was a Daoist priest that had left behind worldly pleasures!


    However, what he said next made me return to my senses.


    Hed invited us here because he needed our help!


    The mysterious man had received amission from the boss of the entertainment club, who had a son born with congenital blindness.


    The boss got wind that there was a corpse pearl with the ability to treat his sons illness. Therefore, hed spent a huge sum to invite the mysterious man from Hong Kong to help him find this pearl.


    I also knew about the item, and it wasn''t easy to find or buy.


    To put it bluntly, it was the eye of a dead person.


    Of course, it couldnt be the eye of a random corpse. It had to be the eye of someone that had been dead for hundreds or thousands of years.


    In addition, the body had to be preserved in a mummified state, because only then would the eyes not rot but harden, gradually bing solid.


    It was extremely difficult to find a several hundred year old, let alone thousand year old tomb in China that had a mummified corpse stored inside. If we carelessly dug up an evil spirit, wed all lose our lives.


    I looked at the mysterious man, somewhat worried. Did you ept themission?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt kept silent for a short moment before saying, I had no choice but to ept. A certain organization is also involved in this matter, and if the corpse pearl were to fall into their hands, things would end badly for you.


    What? Things would end badly for me? I was startled and couldnt help but ask.


    He nodded and exined, Yes, you heard it right. After the jademp went missing, the Longquan Vi mobilized all of their resources to look for the corpse pearl


    But, what does that have to do with me? Why should I care if theyre looking for the corpse pearl? I still couldnt wrap my head around it.


    The mysterious man didnt reply and lifted the hem of my shirt so that Li Mazi could see my back.


    Li Mazi immediately cried out, Holy shit! Little Brother Zhang, what are those things on your back?


    His reaction scared me, and I hurried to ask, Why? What did you see?


    Li Mazi said while shaking, Y-Youve got two big eyes on your back. Fuck, theyre disgusting


    What?


    I felt my scalp go numb. I quickly found a mirror and used it to check my back.


    Sure enough, there were two strange eyes growing on my back!


    There were two lumps on each side of my spine that looked rather simr to human eyes. Therefore, at first nce, people might mistake them for eyes.


    After the man in the Kumamon t-shirt had made me notice the eyes, I felt a strange itch on my back. I raised my hand and went to scratch it.


    However, the mysterious man stopped me from touching the eyes on my back. If the eyes get damaged, youll die.


    I started sweating and hurriedly asked, W-Whats happening?

 Chapter 44: Fengmen Village

    Chapter 44: Fengmen Vige


    The mysterious man said, The Longquan Vi has its eyes on you. I dont know why they took a liking to you, but they want to turn you into a corpse puppet that they can make use of.


    I gawked and felt as though someone had poured a bucket of cold water on my head.


    The two eyes on my back were the doing of the Longquan Vi, and Id been oblivious up until now.


    If they get their hands on the corpse pearl, not even the mysterious man would be able to stop them from turning me into a corpse puppet... Thats why he wants to find the pearl before the Longquan Vi. Its the only way to save me!


    I was depressed and cursed those guys. Are they blind or something?! I bought themp because it was offered to me! Is there really a need to target me like this?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt exined, Youre wrong. From what I understand, it was the fatty that had arranged everything so that the Longquan Vi would take notice of you. I dont know what kind of grudge there was between the two of you, but it might be something rted to your grandfather or father.


    I lowered my head in dejection and took a sip of my drink. I was so angry that my entire body was shaking. Who the hell did I offend this time?!


    Still, there was no time for regret.


    I nced at the man in the Kumamon t-shirt as I asked him, Where can we find a corpse pearl? I want to set out immediately and look for it. I dont want to be a corpse puppet.


    He contemted for a while before replying, If we want to seek the corpse pearl, we have to take a few risks. Fengmen Vige it might be there


    When I heard the name Fengmen Vige, my face paled.


    Fengmen Vige was a famous haunted vige in China, located in Henan.


    ording to the rumors, around a hundred vigers, including males, females, elders, and children, suddenly disappeared one day. Strange stories about the ce spread, with most of them being from the people that had gone to explore it.


    On the inte, there were all kinds of ghost stories about the vige. The ghastly face beside the pillow, children crying in a mist of blood, murdering armchairs, and evil soldiers eating souls, just to name a few. Some of the explorers had personally experienced these things and even took pictures.


    Regardless of whether these ghost stories were true or not, the fact that the three of us would have to head there and stay a few nights made my scalp go numb


    Li Mazi was even more nervous than me. As soon as he heard about Fengmen Vige, he opened his eyes wide and gave me an awkward smile. I was aware that he didnt want to deal with this matter that brought him no ie.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt said, It might be our only chance. You have to decide carefully.


    What else was there to decide? I believed in him, and he wasnt someone whod lie to me.


    Moreover, I even had two eyes on my back I had no choice in the matter; I could only ept.


    Then, I turned to Li Mazi.


    He beckoned and said, My son is sick, and I have to take care of him. I wont be able to apany you guys this time.


    I flew into a rage and covered him with insults. I risked my life to save yours when you were in danger! But, when Im the one in need, you just want to stand by and do nothing? Do you have no shame?!


    However, Li Mazi didnt budge and kept using his son as an excuse.


    In the end, I said, If thats the case, Ill cut off every rtionship we have and wont do business with you anymore.


    Li Mazi finally started wavering. Still theres no one at home that can take care of my son.


    I reassured him. Thats easy to solve.


    I called Yin Xinyue and asked her to take care of Li Mazis son for a while.


    Since it was my request, Yin Xinyue readily agreed.


    Li Mazi was finally relieved. However, I wont follow you for nothing.


    I understood what he meant. Dont worry. Youll have your share.


    After the discussion was over, I returned to my shop to prepare. The man in the Kumamon t-shirt had said to keep things simple and bring only stuff that would be useful, which put me in a dilemma.


    At first, I wasnt really nning to use the unique items that my father and grandfather had left behind, but the mysterious man reminded me of how dangerous that ce was, and that it was best to bring everything that might be useful.


    So, I took out all the things that my father and grandfather had used in the past and started to rummage through them.


    In the end, I chose the following two treasures: the Yin and Yang Umbre, and the Sirius Whip. These two things were otherworldly items, and from their craftsmanship, they should be very valuable antiques.


    I didnt know much about the origins of the Yin and Yang Umbre.


    The item looked like a normal umbre, but it waspletely made of stainless steel. The surface looked strange, with white on the right and ck on the left; just like the Yin and Yang symbol.


    The umbre was a defensive otherworldly item.


    As for the Sirius Whip, Id heard about it from my father. It was rumored that Emperor Li Shimin had used it to flog the corpse of the politician, Wei Zheng. It was seemingly an item filled with hatred. But, whether these rumors were true or not, I didnt know.


    However, one could tell from the materials that the whip was far from ordinary.


    It had been manufactured from desert wolf skin and ox tendons, which made it very effective against the undead.


    Still, meeting an undead being wasnt something that happened every day, and I didnt know for sure how effective it would be.


    I also packed some food to ay our hunger on the way and save time.


    However, even after I was done with my luggage, Li Mazi hadnte to pick me up. As such, I dragged my luggage over to his ce.


    When I arrived, I saw him packing some clothes and nkets. I got angry and said, Didnt we talk about it already? We dont need to bring these things. We can buy them when we get there, Ill pay.


    Li Mazi exined, This is for my son. I n to head to the hospital first and deliver him this stuff. The nkets and clothes there are too thin, and it wouldnt be good if he caught a cold right now...


    I was moved by his words. The love of a parent! For the past few years, things were hard for him. He had to be both a father and a mother and even now, hes worried about his son.


    I realized how selfish I was being. I sighed and told him, You dont have to go if you dont want to.


    But, to my surprise, Li Mazi didnt shrink back. No, I want to earn my share!


    When we arrived at the hospital, Yin Xinyue was chatting with Li Mazis son.


    Seeing Li Mazi, she said with a smile, Li Mazi, your genes arent bad. You have a cute little boy here. Ive had a discussion with him, and when hes done with the treatment, helle to ourpany for an internship. We happen to be training a group of young idols, and your son seems to have potential.


    Li Mazi was overjoyed.


    We exchanged some words and went to find the mysterious man.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt was waiting for us at the entrance of the entertainment club. He didnt have many things with him, only a backpack and a sword.


    We got into the car and headed to Fengmen Vige.


    We didnt talk much along the way.


    When we reached the closest town to Fengmen Vige, we got some supplies and stuff for camping. We spent the night in the town before departing very early the next day.


    Fengmen Vige was situated on a big mountain, and the road leading there was terrible. There was only a small path meandering into the mountain, and our car had to stop several kilometers away from the vige.


    With no other choice left, we had to park the car and start walking.


    But, after walking for a while, we saw a Volkswagen Santana parked alongside the road. There was nobody inside the car, but it seemed that someone else was also here to explore the ce.


    Li Mazi joked, It seems that were not alone! I wonder if there are any beauties in that group of tourists.


    We struggled through the path leading to Fengmen Vige. When we reached our destination, we saw several schoolgirls in jeans, who were posing and taking photos in the vige.


    Li Mazis mood soared as soon as he saw the group. He smiled and joked once more, Perhaps we can have a romantic party tonight.


    The other party consisted of youngdies, while our team only had males.


    I scolded him, We arent here to flirt!


    As we neared, we attracted the attention of the girls. They were all very pretty, and they couldnt cover up the charm exuding from their bodies.


    Among the group, a girl with short hair caught my attention.


    She wore a pink miniskirt which exposed her fair thighs, a pair of sses on her small and cute nose, and she had a little mouth. At first nce, she looked like a cartoon character, giving people the feeling of a girl next door.


    The female students then gathered and whispered for quite a long time. Eventually, one of them smiled came forward to greet us.


    She asked, Can you help us take some pictures?


    Li Mazi hurriedly replied, Sure, beautifuldy. Itll be our pleasure.


    Then, using Fengmen Vige as the background, Li Mazi took several pictures of the girls. However, it seemed that they werent satisfied yet, so they ran toward me and the mysterious man, blending in and taking more photos. One of them even showed a starry-eyed expression while hugging the arm of the mysterious man.


    His brows slightly furrowed, and it looked like he could draw his sword at any moment...

 Chapter 45: Enchanting Corpse Aroma

    Chapter 45: Enchanting Corpse Aroma


    The short-haired girl in the miniskirt was rather shy and kept her distance from us.


    I didnt know why, but whenever our eyes met, shed blush and stoop her head.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt looked like Song Joong-ki from Descendants of the Sun, so the schoolgirls liked him a lot. They all wanted to take pictures with him. One of the girls even posted the pictures on Tieba Baidu with a caption that read: [We met a cold and handsome oppa in Fengmen Vige! It was awesome! Guys, leave some replies and Ill give you this handsome oppas contact!]


    I smiled awkwardly since there seemed to be no danger. <em>It doesnt even feel like were here to find an otherworldly item, but to date instead!</em>


    After the mysterious man finished his photo session, Li Mazi asked the girls to take a few pictures with him. However, the girls told him that they didnt have enough space on their phones. Then, they hopped around, starting to explore the vige.


    The mysterious man looked at the girls as they left , sighing unhappily.


    I asked him, Whats the matter? Did you notice something?


    He shook his head and kept silent.


    We picked up our luggage and tried to find a good ce to camp.


    Although the buildings in Fengmen Vige had been eroding for years, they were still standing, which was almost a miracle. Still, all the houses were covered with ivy or other crawling nts, and when looking through the gaps between doors and windows, we could only see darkness inside.


    I suddenly remembered some of the rumors about Fengmen Vige that Id read online, and I decided to see if they were true.


    Sure enough, I found the armchair that would kill you within a month if you sat on it, and also saw a broken coffin. It was rumored that whenever Fengmen Vige was covered in fog, a red-eyed undead creature woulde out of it.


    Still, I didnt really know if these were real stories or just rumors!


    All the buildings in the vige had surprisinglyrge cracks, and I was afraid that theyd simply copse if a gust of wind blew over. Eventually, we found a single-story house that seemed to look better than the others.


    As soon as we entered, we were weed by a moldy stench.


    A cracked and worn out board still hung on the door, which read Honorarium Hall. From what Id read about Fengmen Vige in a travel guide, this ce should be where the elderly stayed.


    We unfolded the nkets, spread them on the ground, and prepared to rest.


    In the meantime, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt removed a small porcin bottle from his pocket, sprinkling some white powder at the houses entrance.


    Out of curiosity, Li Mazi asked, What are you doing?


    The mysterious man replied, Its to prevent toxic bugs and snakes from getting inside.


    Sure enough, the white powder worked, and I saw a ck snake crawling up to the threshold before immediately turning around.


    I then asked the mysterious man, Did you find traces of the corpse pearl?


    He shook his head. I havent found anything yet, but when night falls, we can go out and check. Im sure well find something.


    He wasnt someone whod speak nonsense. If he said that wed find something, there was nothing to worry about.


    Since we had to take action at night, it was best to rest well during the day to save some energy!


    Li Mazi and I pulled our nkets over our bodies and prepared to sleep. The mysterious man, on the other hand, meticulously folded a piece of paper.


    Out of curiosity, I asked, What are you doing?


    He answered, Folding a paper crane.


    I couldnt help butugh. I didnt think that hed use this method to kill time. <em>Isnt that something only girls like to do?</em>


    I didnt talk anymore and closed my eyes as I started to drift off to sleep. When I woke up, I smelled an intoxicating aroma.


    I sat up and found that those schoolgirls were sitting beside the mysterious man, chatting with him.


    Even though the man in the Kumamon t-shirt kept a poker face the whole time and listened silently, it didnt affect the girls interest and they kept chatting with him.


    Only the short-haired girl, who was sitting by my side, was still shy. When I opened my eyes, they coincidentally met hers. Once again, she lowered her head bashfully.


    I couldnt sleep due to their chirping. So, I started ying games on my phone.


    After a while, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt finally spoke, Are you girls really nning to stay in the vige tonight? Arent you afraid?


    Its all right. With so many men here to protect us, what is there to fear? said a girl with heavy makeup.


    I smelled the strong aroma again. <em>Perhaps ites from the cheap perfume the girl is wearing...</em>


    The mysterious man asked, Who suggested for you to stay here tonight? Its not a good idea.


    It was Jing Jing, said the girl with heavy makeup. Shes that short-haired girl over there. Shes the youngest among us, and she said that itd be great to stay over for some extra excitement.


    The words of the girl with heavy makeup were ambiguous, and I wondered if she was flirting with the man in the Kumamon t-shirt. However, the mysterious man smiled faintly and gave each girl a paper crane. You should go to sleep, because Id also like to get some sleep.


    Then, he walked towards me, signaling me with his eyes to stop using my phone and seize the time to sleep some more.


    When I saw his eyes, my heart jumped, feeling that there was something wrong with his expression.


    I switched my phone off and pretended to sleep.


    The girls looked unsatisfied, but there was nothing they could do. After the man in the Kumamon t-shirt had settled near me, they also returned to their respective tents.


    I didnt sleep since his expression from before kept shing in my mind.


    <em>Im sure he has something important to tell me!</em>


    Around an hourter, after all the girls were fast asleep, he used a finger to poke me. I opened my eyes and looked at him.


    He pointed outside and walked out.


    I hurried to follow him, exiting the cottage.


    After Id steadied myself, I asked, There was something wrong with those girls, right?


    The mysterious man nodded. Did you smell a strange aroma earlier?


    I replied, Yes, I did. It smelled like cheap perfume.


    It wasnt perfume. The mysterious man smiled coldly. It was corpse aroma.


    Corpse aroma? I jolted. Whats that? And, where was iting from?


    The undead have a very special smell. They use it to attract humans, which then be their prey. Its some sort of innate skill.


    My jaw dropped in shock. D-Do you mean that those girls are undead creatures?


    The mysterious man said, Im still not sure if the corpse aromaes from the girls or the Honorarium Hall. Anyway, I guess theyll try to do something nasty tonight. Be careful!


    Wait a second, what does the Honorarium Hall have to do with the corpse aroma? I was puzzled. Its just an abandoned single-story building. When we arrived during the day, I even sensed that moldy smell.


    The mysterious man furrowed his brows and asked, Do you know what people used the Honorarium Hall for?


    I shook my head, feeling a little fearful. I dont. What did they use it for?


    To store corpses. This ce is the so-called corpse house, said the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    My scalp went numb. I didnt think that we were actually sleeping inside a corpse house!


    If Id known that earlier, I never wouldve entered the ce, not even if I were beaten to death.


    Flustered, I asked, What do we do now? I dont think I can stay in this ce any longer.


    He replied, Its better to pass the night here. If we leave now, it could be worse.


    Then, he returned to the cottage.


    I could only helplessly follow him.


    But, after returning to the cottage, I couldnt sleep anymore. <em>Those girls might be undead creatures, and we are spending the night in a corpse house!</em>


    Even if I were bolder, I still wouldnt be able to sleep!


    Of course, since Li Mazi knew nothing, he was fast asleep, snoring noisily.


    I turned a little and felt the Sirius Whip underneath my body.


    In case something unexpected happened, I could quickly grab the whip and counterattack.


    After midnight, at around 3 AM, I heard the zipper of the tent being pulled down. I tensed up and tried to sense even the smallest movement.


    A young girl wearing pajamas came out of the tent. She stood at the entrance for a while and then abruptly called my name.


    I immediately got goosebumps. <em>Why is she calling me?</em>


    I pretended to be sleeping and didnt answer.


    As her repeated calling couldnt wake me up, she came to me and gently patted me.


    When she came closer, I could clearly smell that strange aroma.


    Sure enough, it came from her body. Now, I was even more frightened. <em>Is she really a zombie?</em>


    Still, Id never seen a zombie as beautiful as her.


    I couldnt pretend to sleep anymore and had no choice but to open my eyes to see who was shaking me. It turned out that it was the short-haired girl, Jing Jing.


    I asked in a daze, Whats the matter?


    Jing Jing made a gesture, hinting for me to keep silent. Then, she whispered, Can youe out for a moment? I need your help with something.


    I furrowed my brow, but still gave her a nod. Okay.


    I secretly shoved the Sirius Whip in my pants and went out with her while trembling.


    While walking behind her, I observed her every move. I didnt notice anything strange, but her swaying buttocks, slim waist, and long arms were beautiful.


    It was really hard to imagine that such a beautifuldy was an undead creature.


    After walking out of the single-story building, Jing Jing turned around and looked at me shyly. I have a few blisters on my feet. They really hurt. Can you help me prick them?


    <em>Holy shit, what''s happening?</em>


    <em>Does she want me to prick her blisters or is she trying to seduce me?!</em>

 Chapter 46: Fruit of Life and Death

    Chapter 46: Fruit of Life and Death


    I took a deep breath, pretty sure that she was trying to seduce me. <em>As soon as I lower my guard, shell bite my neck, drink my blood, and turn me into a fellow undead.</em>


    Could I fall into her trap? No way!


    I calmed down and answered, If you have blisters on your feet, youd better not prick them. The wounds might get infected, so its better if I give you some ointment to apply on them.


    Since I knew that rural viges had a lot of poisonous bugs, Id brought along several basic medicines. I took out a bottle from my pocket and handed it to Jing Jing.


    Jing Jing stooped her head shyly. They really hurt, and I cant stand it anymore. It doesnt matter if they get infected, Ill leave tomorrow and go to a hospital to get treatment.


    Then, she sat on the grass, proactively taking her shoes off. Shortly after, she slipped her socks off her feet, revealing a pair of petite and fair-skinned feet which were glowing mesmerizingly under the moonlight.


    I was still young, and it was difficult for me to resist such temptation.


    However, I remembered clearly what the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had told me. I mustnt lose this battle.


    I took a deep breath, suppressed my emotions, and gave her a forced smile. Im really sorry, but a man shouldnt touch a woman that way. You should call your friends for help!


    Then, I didnt even give her another nce before I walked directly into the Honorarium Hall andid down by the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    The moment Id turned around, I clearly heard her disappointed sigh.


    Not long after Idid down, Jing Jing approached. She shot me a sad but resentful nce, then unwillingly returned to her tent.


    Even in my sleep, I still had the image of Jing Jings charming feet in my head. Those little, beautiful feet made me blush. I shifted on the spot in frustration.


    I didnt feel any better though. How had a beautiful girl like her be a zombie?


    The Heavens had wasted a treasure. Why wasnt Li Mazi turned into a zombie instead of her?


    Struggling hard to sleep until dawn, my entire body felt ufortable, and my mind resembled a tangled web. I had to get up and stretch my body to release the tension from my back.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt also got up, then turned to me and smiled. Did you sleep well?


    I nodded reluctantly. More or less.


    Li Mazi was still fast asleep, so I walked forward and gave him a good kick. When he opened his eyes, clearly still sleepy, he asked me why Id woken him up as he was in the middle of a nice dream.


    I said to him, No more dreaming, get up. Its time for breakfast.


    He got up unwillingly.


    The girls in the tents also got up. Jing Jing walked out from her tent, giving me an awkward and embarrassed smile. It seemed like she was shy and reluctant because ofst nights event.


    I was a bit doubtful. Could a zombie really feel embarrassed?


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt said, If you have free time, go out and collect some wood! Well cook breakfast together!


    The girls became excited and went out. Then, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt sneaked into their tents.


    Shortly after, he came out with a paper crane in his hands. It was one of the cranes hed given the girls yesterday.


    The man gave the crane to me, asking, Can you tell whats wrong with it?


    I turned the crane around in my hands to examine it. Eventually, I found a few red tints in the cranes eyes. They looked like a pair of blood-red eyes gazing at me!


    I took a deep breath and told the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt my findings.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt nodded, telling me that I was correct. His paper cranes werent folded from any normal paper. They were made of Chenzhou Paper from Chenzhou Province. Chenzhou Paper had a very special characteristic: It would turn red as soon as it touched corpse energy. That was why the ancient Daoist priests often used Chenzhou Paper to makemps to search for zombies when they went out at midnight.


    And, this paper crane with red spots was the one hed given to Jing Jing yesterday.


    I felt lucky that I hadnt done anything to Jing Jingst night.


    I hurriedly asked him, What should we do now?


    He answered, She wouldnt turn into a zombie without a reason. Im sure she ate something like the grass or leaves that grow from a zombies body. If we know where this grass is, we can find the zombie. So, we must start investigating Jing Jing!


    Not long afterward, the girls came back carrying some dry wood. The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt and I dug a small hole to make a stove. Then, we ced a pot over it to boil some water. After adding dry beef and a food bar, we began to cook breakfast.


    The girls were sitting nearby, talking to the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt while they waited.


    His handsome face remained cold, and he didnt talk as he listened to the girls chat about random things.


    Not long afterward, the water boiled, and the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt walked over to stir the soup.


    I clearly saw him sprinkle some white power into the soup while stirring it. I wondered why hed done that.


    He then served the soup for the girls, and Li Mazi and I also had a bowl. However, as I was worried about the powder hed added into the soup, I didnt drink it immediately.


    Once I saw the man in the Kumamon t-shirt take a sip, I followed him and started drinking mine.


    After that, we sat down to rest for a bit, and the girls suggested that we walk around and explore the vige. However, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt disagreed.


    I looked at him, discovering that he seemed to be waiting for something to happen!


    Soon, I noticed that something was wrong with Jing Jing. She looked irritated and sweat was starting to bead on her forehead. And, it seemed that she had a horrible itch as she started to scratch her body.


    As she scratched her neck, I saw a dense red rash appearing. It covered her exposed skin and filled me with so much fear that my scalp went numb.


    I nced at the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt and he gave me a nod, indicating that hed also noticed the situation.


    The girls felt that the situation was strange and asked Jing Jing what was wrong.


    No one expected to see Jing Jing abruptly bolt toward the girl wearing heavy makeup, trying to bite her neck!


    The girl wearing heavy makeup shrieked in fear. Fortunately, I was prepared. I grabbed Jing Jings arm and pushed her to the floor. The man in the Kumamon t-shirt swiftly took out a small porcin bottle and ced it under Jing Jings nostrils so that shed inhale the substance inside.


    Then, something happened.


    Slowly, Jing Jing stopped struggling before fainting shortly after


    The girls couldnt grasp what had just urred. Shaking in fear, they asked, What happened to Jing Jing?


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt said coldly, At the moment, shes half human, half zombie. If we dont save her, shell turn into aplete zombie.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup jolted upright, shrieking, What the heck are you talking about? What did you make Jing Jing inhale? If something happens to Jing Jing, Ill call the police!


    The man snorted coldly. Are you stupid? Did you forget that she just attacked you?


    The girl blushed upon hearing his reminder. Eventually, she stammered, What if you guys did something?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt said, If you dont believe me, you can take her and leave now. Im sure that shell turn into a zombie in around three hours. At that time, I have no doubt that youll all die.


    Then, he turned to me and Li Mazi. Lets go.


    Li Mazi didnt react, so I came forward and grabbed his hand. He turned to look at me fearfully. Whats going on? What happened?


    I shot Li Mazi a nce to stop him from talking.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup was finally scared. She spread her arms, standing in front of the man in the Kumamon t-shirt. Tell us. What happened to Jing Jing? Why has she be a zombie?


    Think about it carefully. Did she eat something that she shouldnt have? For example, it couldve been a strange nt or bug, asked the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup pondered for a while before blurting, I remember! She ate a weird fruit! It was small, red, and looked really strange. We didnt dare to eat it, but she did.


    Red? Did it look like a human eyeball? the man in the Kumamon t-shirt asked with a frown.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup nodded. Yes, exactly. It looked like a human eye.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt sighed. You need to show us the way to the Fruit of Life and Death, right now. If we can find it, perhaps she can be saved.


    So its called the Fruit of Life and Death? asked the girl with heavy makeup.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt nodded. Now, hurry up!


    Then, he turned to look at me.

 Chapter 47: The Rusty Machete

    Chapter 47: The Rusty Machete


    I immediately carried Jing Jing on my back. Although she was now in a half human, half zombie state, she didnt have a zombies features yet. As her body was still soft, it wasfortable and easy to carry around.


    Li Mazi had volunteered for this, saying that he would carry her.


    But who knew if he would seize the opportunity to take advantage of her? No matter what, she was still a student. Therefore, I didnt agree with him.


    The other girls also knew that it was serious this time, so they didnt protest. Instead, they immediately led the way.


    Wed expected for the girls to bring us into the vige. However, we walked past it and came to a piece of wastnd behind the vige. Then, they pointed at some bushes nearby. We found the red fruit in that bush


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt nodded, then asked them to stay put. Next, he asked me to walk with him to explore the surroundings.


    I understood that there was something wrong inside that grassy area. Immediately, I grabbed the Sirius Whip as I followed the man in the Kumamon t-shirt. Carefully, we entered the wastnd covered in tall grass.


    Li Mazi didnt go with us as he wanted to stay and protect the girls.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt didnt force him and said that he could do whatever he wanted.


    The wild grass here was extremely lush, but it was amon sight in the countryside. The deeper we walked, the greener and lusher the grass was.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt said to me, Its possible for a ce like this to gather a lot of toxic animals like venomous snakes or frogs. You must be careful. If you get bitten, the consequences will be even worse than Jing Jings.


    I nodded and suddenly recalledst nights encounter. I asked, Jing Jing has blisters on her feet. Is it because she was bitten by something?


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt hesitated for a while, his twinkling eyes ncing at me. Did you touch the blisters on her feet?


    I immediately replied, Dont worry, I didnt.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt sighed with relief. Good.


    We walked with difficulty through the area of tall grass, but we didnt encounter any poisonous snakes or animals.


    Then, more bushes and trees that were as tall as an adult appeared. I realized that Li Mazi and the others probably couldnt see us now.


    I checked the area, but I didnt find any red fruit. I started to feel disappointed, thinking that there might have only been one Fruit of Life and Death, and Jing Jing had eaten it.


    While my mind was wandering, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt waved at me, signaling for me to stop.


    Then, he crouched down, bring his ear close to the ground.


    I did the same, but couldnt hear anything.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt picked up a handful of soil, smearing it between his fingers and smelling it. Then, his face turned dark and uncertain. I was scared. What did you just find?


    The man answered, Move, hurry.


    Then, as he elerated, I followed him closely. My subconsciousness told me that he mustve found something.


    Indeed, after several steps, we found the red fruit!


    The fruits had a red hue, making them look as if they were soaked in fresh blood. They were growing from a bush, and there were dozens of them.


    I studied the red Fruit of Life and Death. They didnt look much different from the size and shape of a nectarine.


    The fruits had a ck dot in the middle, which made them resemble a human eye.


    I didnt know if it was because of nerves, but I felt like there were many eyes currently gazing at me, giving me fear.


    Are those Fruits of Life and Death? I asked, puzzled.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt nodded. He then bent over and picked up a handful of the trees roots, trying to pull it up. Following the root, he continued to dig further.


    It was out of my expectations as he finally grabbed a rusty machete from underneath the roots of the tree. Seeing the machete, the mans eyes heated, showing his excitement.


    He handed me the machete, then picked several Fruits of Life and Death before urging me to leave.


    I turned and walked away, but I could feel that the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt wasnt following me.


    Looking back, I found the man drawing his eight-faced sword and cutting his finger with an unchanging expression. Then, he dropped the blood from his finger onto the muddy ground.


    Startled, I hurriedly asked what hed just done.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt didnt answer me. Without saying anything more, he brought me back to where Li Mazi and the girls were waiting.


    Since wed met the girls, I had this constant doubt. Those girls hade to Fengmen Vige to explore. However, why did they randomlye to this wastnd? This ce had tall grass and bushes, and it was home to snakes and rats. Werent they afraid of these animals?


    While leaving, I had the feeling that someone or something was following me.


    But, when I turned around, I found nothing.


    No matter what, from beginning to end, the rattling footsteps behind us didnt cease!


    When we halted, the rattling noise also stopped. When we sped up, the noise would keep up. I tried several different things to increase the distance between us, yet there were no exceptions.


    I asked the man in the Kumamon t-shirt what that sound could be, but he just waved his hand and told me not to worry about it.


    We traveled through the grassy area at a breakneck pace, and when wed cleared it, I was breathless.


    I then found the girls watching us with frightened expressions.


    ncing at Jing Jing, I noticed that herplexion was strangely red. It looked like all of her blood had rushed to her face.


    I was startled, and asked the man in the Kumamon t-shirt, What should we do now?


    He looked panicked. Grabbing his sword and sweeping his eyes around the ce, he urged, Move. Leave this ce.


    Seeing his anxious and frightened expression, I couldnt calm down. I shouldered Jing Jing and led the team back to the cottage.


    As soon as we were back and Id ced Jing Jing on the ground, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt asked me and Li Mazi to close all the windows of the Honorarium Hall.


    Then, we had to stay by the windows and pay attention to what was happening outside.


    If we heard anything approaching, we had to tell him immediately.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt hurried to scratch off the rust on the machete, the metallic sound making goosebumps rise on my skin.


    Scared by the tense atmosphere, the girls didnt even dare to breath. They just opened their eyes wide and watched the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    After hed scrubbed the machete clean, he called the girls toe closer. Once theyd approached, he asked them to pick up the rust and stuff the substance into Jing Jings seven orifices.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup asked worriedly, Wont we suffocate her to death if we do this?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt nodded. Possibly, but if you dont do this, shell die immediately.


    The girls were panic-stricken, so they quickly followed the mans order. Carefully, they stuffed the rust into Jing Jings mouth, nostrils, ears, anus, and her private part.


    After they were done, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt walked to the door, taking a deep breath.


    At this moment, my heart was filled with doubt, so I lowered my voice and asked him, What are you worried about?

 Chapter 48: The Generals of the Yang family

    Chapter 48: The Generals of the Yang family


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had a worried face as he said, Were in grave danger this time. Weve picked up things we shouldnt have!


    You should let the girls seize the opportunity to leave Fengmen Vige! The other party is afraid of the sunlight, so they dont dare toe here in broad daylight. But, Im not sure whatll happen when night falls


    Listening to him, my heart felt even more distress.


    However, in this moment, I didnt have the time to ask further. It was now more urgent to make sure the girls left safe and sound. If they stayed, thered be even greater trouble.


    They were all scared, and with Jing Jings situation, they had to go to the hospital. So, after I talked to them, they agreed to leave.


    I took them to their car before returning to Fengmen Vige. As I was still worried about Jing Jing, I asked the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt, Is Jing Jings life in danger?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt sighed. Everything depends on her own destiny.


    Wed spent almost all day focusing on one job, which was reinforcing the hall. We used nails to fix the doors and windows.


    It was because the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had repeatedly warned us that tonight, the owners of the machete woulde to us!


    And, there would be two people. With our level, we wouldnt be a match for them.


    I strongly believed this. Jing Jing had just eaten a tiny fruit, yet shed turned half human and half zombie. It spoke to the fact how fierce the thing underground could be


    But, I was so curious. We hadnt met the other party yet, so how could the man in the Kumamon t-shirt know that there were two of them?


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt resolutely threw the machete to me as he said, Check the machete and see whats carved on it!


    I caught the de and examined it.


    Although the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had scrubbed the de clean, it still had ayer of green rust on it that looked like seaweed. It was so bad that I couldnt see the original de clearly.


    Even so, I still sensed the vehement murderous aura from this machete!


    This murderous aura was generated by the de itself. When facing it, I felt like I was encountering a ghost.


    Gently caressing the de, my finger felt as if it was pricked by a needle. The sensation made me instantly retract my finger, but the sword now seemed to have a vague green halo.


    And, on the handle, I could see two prominent words. They were Meng and Jiao.


    What do they mean? I curiously asked the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt.


    The man replied with a question of his own, Have you ever watched the Beijing opera Hongyang Cave?


    I only know about the wave sshing Hong Lake, Li Mazi said worriedly. Bro, dont keep your listeners in suspense. Spit it out!


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt casually said, Theres an ancient Chinese proverb that goes: Jiao will never leave Meng. As long as you know this old story, you can guess the origins of this machete


    Hearing this prompt from the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt, I felt sparks firing inside my brain.


    I seemed to know what the man was talking about.


    Jiao will never leave Meng. Its the story about Meng Liang and Jiao Zan. They were the two subordinates under Yang Ling  one of the Generals of the Yang family.


    These two had such a good friendship that they ate and slept together. Their brotherhood was in sync like legs and arms. Well, nowadays, people would say that they were good gay partners.


    Later on, the Yang family had their blood shed on Golden Beach. Old General Yang and his four sons died for their country. Only Yang Ling remained alive.


    At that time, they all wanted to be buried in their homnd.


    Yang Ling then ordered Meng Liang to go to Hongyang Cave in the Song-Liao border to carry the Yang family members dead bodies home at any cost!


    After Meng Liang had departed, Jiao Zan was afraid that something would happen to him and he discreetly followed.


    It turned out, that as Meng Liang entered Hongyang Cave, he felt like someone had been following him stealthily. Subconsciously, he assumed that it was a Liao soldier. So, he abruptly turned around and killed the other with one strike of his knife.


    After piercing the enemy, Meng Liang realized that the wounded soldier wasnt screaming in thenguage of the Liao Nation. So, he pulled the other person into the light of the moon to check his identity.


    At first nce, he gawked in shock.


    Because, the one hed just killed, was actually his best brother, Jiao Zan.


    Meng Liang was filled with regret and sorrow. So, he pledged that he wouldnt continue living alone, and on the spot, he killed himself.


    Since this machete had the words Meng and Jiao inscribed on it, it must be the weapon that Meng Liang had used to kill Jiao Zan before taking his own life.


    I told the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt my thoughts.


    He gave me a slight nod. Correct. This de is the one that Meng Liang used to kill Jiao Zan. Its called the Hongyang de. Meng Liangs and Jiao Zans souls are still lingering on the de, and I can guess that their bodies are now wandering around the outskirts of Fengmen Vige


    Li Mazi took a deep breath. Big brother, tell me, have Meng Liang and Jiao Zan be zombies?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt nodded. Im afraid so. However, concerning Meng Liang killing himself, the records are vague because no one ever actually witnessed it. Some of the non-official history documents say that Meng Liang didntmit suicide, but roamed around to find the great sages secluding themselves in the mountains to find a way to resurrect Jiao Zan. Despite this, the final result was that they all became living beings with stiff bodies.


    Living beings with stiff bodies was the ancient term for dead, but not rotten, bodies!


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. We all felt chills traveling down our spines. The two zombies, who used to be great Generals when they were alive, could send us to our deaths within a minute, couldnt they?


    Well, plucking teeth from a zombies mouth wasnt any easier than doing it from a tiger!


    Being anxious and frightened, I asked the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt, Do you have any specific n? How sure are you about this?


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt said, The n is simple. Since we dug up the Hongyang de, the two zombies will surely know. With their senses, theylle here tonight! At that time, we can eliminate the souls attached to the de. Without souls to control, the bodies will die.


    Hold on! I was surprised. Zombies, they dont have souls, do they? Why will the zombies die if we kill the souls? I cant believe it.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt replied, Everything in this world has a soul. Their bodies became zombies after their souls were taken out and didnt report to Hell. Then, their souls wandered around the world, never disappearing. Thats why their bodies are neither alive nor dead.


    There are three ways to truly kill a zombie. The first way is to destroy its body! The second method is to destroy its soul. Andstly, performing a ritual to help the soul find peace.


    Anyway, zombies are strong and fierce, so their souls are surely powerful. We cant perform the ritual ceremony to help them. And, once the soul gets back to the undead body, the zombie will be a spirit. At that time, Im afraid that even my teacher couldnt deal with it. So, no matter what happens tonight, we cant let the zombies take the Hongyang de!


    Li Mazi and I were shocked to the core when we learned all this. I didnt know that there was such knowledge about zombies.


    Although I was carrying the Yin and Yang Umbre and the Sirius Whip, I felt that they were useless here.


    Pondering for a moment, I went to reinforce the windows once again.


    Li Mazi said, If theyre so strong, then why dont we go home now?


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt shook his head without a bit of hesitation. The moment we dug up the Hongyang de, we didnt have any way to back off! As long as we bring the Hongyang de with us, the zombies will follow. If we leave the sword here, once the souls and the undead bodies reunite, Im afraid that a horrible disaster will ur.


    Li Mazi sighed. If it doesnt work, Ill buy steel and cement to build a bunker here. I dont think those things could raid us.


    However, it was around 2 or 3 p.m. It was definitely toote.


    Li Mazi and I found everything we could to block the windows. The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt took out coins and red strings from his bag. He then tied the coins onto the strings, each coin ten centimeters away from thest. He prepared dozens of them.


    Then, he ced them in the Qian, Dui, Li, Zhen, Xun, Kan, Gen, and Kun directions. [1]


    Otherworldly merchants called these kinds of ropes Corpse Tying Ropes, as they could sense corpse energy. The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt tied several ropes in the Li direction. He said that hed ce the Hongyang de in the Li direction, which wasnt far from here. This was because the zombies would most likely attack from that direction!


    Since wed be facing the zombies tonight, I was so worried and anxious that I couldnt eat much for dinner. After forcing down some crackers, I sat by the entrance, carefully listening to the noises outside.


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt sat by my side, gently wiping the machete with a clean, white cloth.


    Slowly, the de he was rubbing glowed brightly. With just a gentle push, it could cut a deep notch on the wooden door.


    This Hongyang de was definitely an otherworldly item with great value.


    We hadnt found the corpse bead yet, but wed dug this item up instead.


    If we were lucky enough to get out alive, we could earn a lot from this item. However, to be honest, I wasnt at all happy or excited. I would rather not have thismission.


    Another two hours ticked by, with the sky growing darker each minute. Just the passing of these two hours felt as long as an entire year.


    Through a slit in the wall, I observed the outside world that was so dark one couldnt even see his own fingers. I could make out some dots or beams of light, but I couldnt see the moon. Perhaps, the dark clouds had covered it.


    I felt as though my mood was simrly covered by the dark clouds.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagua

 Chapter 49: You leave, Ill stay!

    Chapter 49: You leave, I''ll stay!


    However, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt still looked calm and natural. He sat to the side and carefully stroked a paper crane.


    I recognized it; it was the crane that hed given to Jing Jing yesterday. However, I didnt know what else there was to see in that paper crane that the man had been admiring it for hours.


    I sat next to the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt, asking him, When do you think those two zombies wille?


    He answered with a question of his own, When do you expect them toe?


    I forced a smile. The sooner the better. We can be reborn sooner if we die sooner.


    My careless words irritated Li Mazi a lot, causing him to scold me.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt handed me the paper crane he was toying with. Easy. Just drip a blood drop of yours on it.


    I was bewildered as I looked at the man in the Kumamon t-shirt. Just a drop of blood? It can attract the zombies here?


    The man nodded.


    I was skeptical, but I still pricked my middle finger and squeezed a drop of blood on the crane. Then, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt brought the paper crane to the windowsill and blew it out the window.


    Until now, I wasnt so sure if what Id seen was a real urrence or was just a hallucination of my mind. Or, perhaps the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had showed me some of his magic tricks.


    That paper crane pped its wings and flew upward as if it had just been brought to life.


    The two red eyes glowed. In midair, it soared and bobbed, finally disappearing from our vision


    Li Mazis jaw dropped for quite a long time. He was so stunned that he couldnt say a word. Eventually, he grabbed the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt and begged him to teach him this magic trick.


    However, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt just twitched his ears as if he was focusing on listening to something.


    A momentter, I clearly saw the mans countenance darken.


    I immediately asked him, So, are the zombiesing?


    The man shook his head. No, not yet.


    However, his expression caused me to doubt his words. Then, I also stuck my ear to the door to listen. A momentter, I was panic-stricken!


    Entering my ear was the rumbling noise of many footsteps from a distance. It was like an army was marching toward us.


    So, we werent going to encounter just two zombies, but a whole army?


    Li Mazi also shot up and tried to listen. He was immediately dumbfounded, his teeth ttering. A wave of zombies ising! Oh f*ck, isnt it like were ying nts vs Zombies?


    Then, a horrible stench permeated the Honorarium Hall, making me nauseous. I had to retch, but nothing came out of my mouth.


    I was scared now. I asked the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt what should we do.


    The man said, Dont panic. Let me think a little bit. Im sure that somethings wrong here.


    After thinking for one minute, he abruptly said, That year, Meng Liang came to steal the bodies of the Yang Generals under the Liaos watch. Do you think that hed go alone?


    I suddenly understood his idea. What if the Song soldiers Meng Liang had brought with him had all turned into zombies? It was already a serious headache dealing with one or two zombies. If there was a wave of zombies, Im sure that wed all be doomed.


    This coffin home definitely wouldnt stop them.


    What to do now? What to do now? I paced back and forth worriedly, feeling so upset and angry.


    However, what made my nervousness worse was that the footsteps didnt continue to approach. It seemed like they were waiting for something, but I didnt know what that was.


    In this moment, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt suddenly poked two of his fingers out of the window.


    When he retracted his hand, there was a paper crane between his fingers.


    It was the one that hed just released. I couldnt believe that it would fly back here. The cranes red eyes were now ck, which made it look fiercer and more terrifying than before.


    The man didnt say anything, but he used a lighter to burn the paper crane. Then, he fished out a bundle of paper cranes from within a pocket on his chest, handing them to me.


    They were the cranes that he had folded while we were waiting.


    With a serious face, he looked at me. This time, we only have a ten percent chance of escaping alive. Were not going to encounter a mere one or two zombies! When they arrive at the cottage, you two will rush out of the vige. If you feel like someone is watching you, burn a paper crane and wait until the feeling of being watched disappears. Then, you should hurry to get out of this vige. Remember, use them wisely. If you dont make it out of the vige before youve burned all of the paper cranes, youll have to stay here forever


    I gulped, but I didnt know what he meant by burning the paper cranes. However, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt must have his reasons for asking us to do so.


    My hands shakily received the paper cranes, and I carefully shoved them into my pocket.


    I hadnt realized it, but the wind had begun to howl outside. The screaming of the wind sounded like someone crying and bellowing angrily. The noise came from a distance, and the chilling gusts swept into the room from the slits on the windows, making me feel cold.


    With this weather, I felt that it might rain soon!


    And, when you were afraid of something, that thing would happen. As soon as I had the thought in my head, rumbling thunder filled the area with a strike of lightning, illuminating the entire sky in a blinding sh.


    Crazy lightning strikes and booming thunder. Would rain be far away? Shortly after, bean-sized rain drops began to fall, noisily hitting the ground and the hall.


    If the paper cranes became wet, how would we ignite them? I was so distressed, hoping that the Honorarium Hall wouldnt be destroyed. Because, to me, it was ourst chance.


    Little Brother Zhang,e here. Listen, do you recognize that sound? While my mind was flustered, Li Mazi suddenly waved his finger at me.


    I immediately walked forward, adhering my ear to the wall. A rubbing sound came from the distance. It seemed like something was being dragged on the ground.


    I checked Li Mazis expression. He grimaced as he said, Are we going to encounter some sort of crippled zombie that can only crawl on the ground?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt didnt say anything, but he silently withdrew the eight-sided Han sword on his back.


    His sword sparkled, reflecting dazzling light at the tip.


    He finally wanted to take action!


    The rubbing sounds came closer. Eventually, it seemed to stop and hesitate in front of our door. I couldnt see anything, but I could feel the grass and trees around us shaking strangely and furiously.


    I understood that in the shadows of the trees, there were things that we didnt want to see. I stared and didnt dare to blink. Although I was scared, I had a wisp of curiosity. Anyway, Id never seen a real zombie before.


    My nerves were tense as I was really worried that those things would suddenly jump out of the bushes or the darkness.


    However, it seemed as if they didnt want to leave. Wed been waiting for quite a long time already, but we hadnt seen any zombie yet. Out of the blue, irregr thumping noises started, like something was hitting the door.


    Instantly, I shook in fright. Since when had the zombies reached our cottage? I didnt say anything but walked to the door and stood there, using my body to block the door.


    Along with the thumping noises, there was another strange sound, which was like someone chewing on a cucumber. Li Mazi cried in fear, asking the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt if the zombies were eating someone outside.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt stayed silent. However, his eyes red at the door as if he could see through the wood to watch the situation outside.


    The banging sounds gradually became louder and louder. From the slit in the window, I couldnt see any zombie. However, the rubbing noise and the shaking trees never ceased!


    It was extremely horrible. I felt my fighting spirit been worn down, bit by bit.


    ng!


    But, in this moment, the nging of metal arose from inside the cottage. It scared me breathless. I hurriedly searched the room with my eyes, and saw the rusty Hongyang de hovering as it released a green halo. Such a green hue terrified me further and made me even more anxious.


    And, as the Hongyang de hovered, the pounding on the door abruptly increased!


    It seemed like people were trying to break the door down. The thumping was unceasing, and the entire hall was shaking.


    Eventually, the noises grew thicker and heavier. The wooden doors and windows, which werent tough at all, couldnt bear it any further


    Chilling winds crept through the slits, leeching away the heat from the room. I felt like I was about to freeze to death.


    Seeing that the wooden doors couldnt hold it anymore, we called for the man in the Kumamon t-shirt to help. The man then said in a low voice, Its toote. Remember what I told you? Burn a paper crane then leave. No need to care about me.


    What did he mean?


    I had a strong feeling that hed decided to die with those zombies. My heart ached and I asked him to go with us.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt shook his head again.


    How could a man be pushed to death by fear alone? Since there was no way back, we would rather fight till thest moment!


    Immediately, I took out all the paper cranes and gave them to Li Mazi. I told the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt, I consider you my brother, so I wont just leave you here alone


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt was surprised and stared at me. Inside his icy-cold eyes, there was a spark of emotion, as if he was touched.


    However, in the end, he still resisted my offer. No, youre of no help here. Ill be distracted and will try to protect you if you stay. Its no good for either of us. So, you leave, Ill stay. Dont worry. Ill be okay.


    Then, the man signaled for Li Mazi to stop blocking the door.


    Li Mazi sighed.


    The moment Li Mazi moved away from the door, there was a tremendous gust of wind, and the door copsed noisily!

 Chapter 50: Corpse Transformation

    Chapter 50: Corpse Transformation


    I hurriedly checked outside the door. There was nothing out there but howling winds and rain.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt screamed, RUN!


    Then, he stormed out as fast as lightning. As he rushed out, the eight-sided Han sword in his hand released a weak blue light, which helped me to see the shadows wailing in the bushes.


    He disappeared into the thick forest in just the blink of an eye. I didnt even hear any sounds of fighting.


    Right at the moment I was worried for the man in the Kumamon t-shirt, Li Mazi screamed angrily, Little Brother Zhang, why are you still standing there? RUN!


    Then, he pulled me into the torrential downpour.


    The bean-sized raindrops hit my body, causing me pain. Strong winds swept past, weaving the rain into a massive that hindered out way. We could only rely on our memories to grope our way around Fengmen Vige in the dark.


    Li Mazis arms protected his chest as he tried his best to keep the paper cranes dry.


    Not long after wed departed, I heard the rubbing sound arise behind us. It seemed like something was crawling and watching us.


    Immediately, I asked Li Mazi to burn a paper crane.


    It was good that Li Mazi knew the paper cranes were what would keep us alive, and had protected them well. The cranes werent wet, so we could ignite one easily.


    And, themotion behind us disappeared instantly. It had worked!


    We kept our pace as we headed forward. Not long after that, we heard the noise again. Without hesitation, we burned another crane.


    Slowly, we moved like that, walking and waiting. In the end, it took us two hours to finish the normally one-hour trek to our car.


    Ensuring that nothing was watching or following us, I exhaled in relief and closed all the doors of the car. Li Mazi stepped on the throttle, making the car rush forward.


    It was strange, but while the vige was now hazy in the rain, its surroundings werepletely different. It didnt look like rain had fallen here at all as the ground was dry, and everything was quiet. We couldnt even hear the rattling rain from the vige, either.


    Although wed escaped Fengmen Vige, I wasnt the least bit happy. Firstly, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt was still there, and we didnt know if he was still alive or not. Secondly, we hadnt found the corpse bead yet. If I couldnt solve the curse on my back, Id die.


    Not long after wed left the vige, we bumped into the sedan carrying Jing Jings group. Seeing us, the girls waved from inside the car.


    <em>Damn it, why are they still here?</em>


    I told Li Mazi to stop so we could ask them why they hadnt left yet.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup told us that they didnt have our contact information, and that they were worried about us. So, theyd waited outside the vige for us.


    Oh right, wheres the man in the ck t-shirt? Why isnt he with you guys?


    I didnt want to tell them what had happened inside the vige. Its all right. You guys should leave now as its not safe here.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup thought for a moment, but didnt leave.


    I remembered Jing Jing and wondered how she was doing. So, I asked the girl wearing heavy makeup.


    Jing Jings okay. It seems like her sickness is under control. However, shes got a high fever and she keeps talking in her sleep, said the girl wearing heavy makeup.


    I asked them to open the car so I could see her.


    The moment the door was opened, a thick aroma permeated the air. I could easily recognize that it wasnt some cheap perfume, but the corpse aroma that the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had told me about!


    In principle, Jing Jing shouldve been getting better, and she shouldnt have had the corpse aroma anymore. But, the current situation was very different. Her condition hadnt gotten better at all; it was getting worse!


    I momentarily felt bad. Hurriedly, I reached out to check Jing Jings forehead. It was burning hot!


    Gently, I lifted her upper lip and was frightened instantly.


    There were more teeth in her mouth, and even some deciduous teeth on her tongue. This scene looked extremely scary.


    <em>Corpse transformation. She is transforming</em>


    I took a deep breath.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup was so scared that she burst out crying. What do we do now?


    I inhaled deeply. Im afraid that Jing Jing cant survive this. We should burn her here. Its the only solution.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup cried, What will we tell her family?


    I was very distressed. I didnt know what to do now, so I could only use the Sirius Whip to tie her up and keep her inside the car. I hoped that she wouldnt be a source of grave danger!


    The other girls stayed and waited with us in the car for the rest of the night. We were all safe and sound.


    After dawn, I went to check Jing Jings situation.


    The scene made me jump in fright as Jing Jing was dead, her body stiff. Strangely, her entire body had turned ck, along with my Sirius Whip!


    Fangs were jutting out from under her lips, causing her cherry-colored mouth to remain open. Seeing her face, goosebumps arose on my skin.


    Thankfully, it appeared that my grandfathers Sirius Whip had worked and could stop zombies.


    I understood that Jing Jings body shouldnt be kept here as we didnt know if her condition would change again. So, I called the girls over and told them that we were in a bad situation.


    When they saw Jing Jing, they were all panic-stricken. They had a quick discussion and decided to push the Volkswagen Santana down the slope.


    Afterward, they would exin that Jing Jing had been driving carelessly, resulting in her plummeting down the slope in a horrible ident.


    In this moment, that was all they could do! I immediately untied the Sirius Whip and helped them push the sedan down the slope.


    We expected that the Volkswagen Santana would explode. However, after it fell, there was only the nging sounds of metal before a big fire started. We waited, but the car didnt explode.


    Since they didnt have a vehicle, the girls now had to leave with me and Li Mazi. But, before we left, I wanted to go back to Fengmen Vige to find the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt. Perhaps we could find him there waiting for us.


    It was currently early in the morning, so I wondered if those zombies had already run back to their hiding ces.


    For safety reasons, we had to wait outside the vige.


    I waited and stared in the direction of Honorarium Hall in hopes of seeing the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt. However, the reality is always cruel. We were there for the whole morning and we still didnt see him.


    Grief flooded my heart as I guessed that hed encountered a really bad situation.


    To save me, hed decided to stay and face the danger. If I didnt care about him now, could I still be a human?


    After enduring and oveing my mental struggle, I decided to enter the vige to check.


    No matter what, if he were still alive, I must find him. If hed died, I must collect his body!


    When I told Li Mazi my idea, I didnt expect that hed agree to go with me without the slightest hesitation, especially since he was a chicken that was constantly afraid of trouble.


    Because of the rain yesterday, the ground was now terrifyingly muddy with broken tree branches and leaves everywhere. Although the world outside the vige was filled with bright sunlight, inside the vige, the atmosphere was downcast and reeked of death. A few sunbeams had managed to pierce the bleakness, but they couldnt give me any warmth.


    There were no signs of fighting on the way, and neither were there any traces of blood.


    Everything looked so normal. However, this normal situation was really abnormal!


    When Li Mazi and I entered the cottage, we were horror-struck as we saw endless streaks of thick, ck blood on the windows, doors, and even the walls. There were also countless footprints, and they obviously werent from human beings.


    However, we didnt see any zombie corpses.


    Half of the hall was leveled, so we could see the inside clearly.


    It was empty. Nobody was there. Anyway, after seeing the mess inside the hall and the broken wooden tables and chairs, I could guess how fierce the fightst night was!


    Still holding onto hope, I searched around the Honorarium Hall, but I couldnt see the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt anywhere. I was disappointed because this vige wasnt small and we didnt know where to find him.


    I didnt expect that while I was nearly copsing from despair, a gory figure fell from the roof of the house.


    His hair covered half of his face, his trousers were muddy, and his muscr upper body was naked.


    His hand was tightly gripping a long sword.


    It was the man who always wore the Kumamon t-shirt!


    I instantly became excited. I quickly wrapped his wounds then shouldered him, trying my best to dash out of this haunted vige.


    There were so many puddles on the ground and I tumbled several times, resulting in me being smeared with mud.


    Despite that, I always tried my best to keep the man high and dry. I didnt dare to let him fall on the muddy ground even once.


    I could still feel his breath and his pulse, though they were so weak that my heart shivered in fear. I was really worried that this mysterious man wouldntst for much longer.


    Once we made it back to the car, the girls shrieked upon seeing the wounded man.


    I didnt have the time to exin the situation to them, so I just asked Li Mazi to quickly start driving.


    Then, I promptly set about changing the mans bandages. Seeing so many scratches made by fingernails on his fair, muscled body, I felt irritated. I sprayed some Yunnan White Medicine on his wounds, but I didnt know if it would help. However, it was better than doing nothing.


    The moment I sprayed the ointment on him, the mysterious man shook in pain, which made my heart ache, too.

 Chapter 51: Dabei Temple

    Chapter 51: Dabei Temple


    I didnt expect that the girl wearing heavy makeup was a nurse. Meticulously, she helped the man clean and disinfect his wounds. When she was done, she was sweating.


    Shortly after, the man woke up, his eyes bloodshot. As he was still gripping the long sword, I was worried that in his unconscious condition hed wield it and hurt us.


    It was good that despite his terrible wounds, his mind was still clear. However, once his eyes were open, he spurted out a mouthful of blood. So, I hurried to help him clean his mouth with a piece of clean cloth.


    Where are we now? asked the mysterious man.


    Were about to leave the area surrounding Fengmen Vige, I told him. Well reach the hospital soon. Youll be alright!


    The man whod always wear a Kumamon t-shirt sighed in relief andy down on the back seat. No, go to Dabei Temple and find Zen Master Baimei.


    Then, the man cked out again.


    Dabei Temple? Zen Master Baimei? A little confused, I asked the girl wearing heavy makeup, Are you from around here?


    The girl wearing heavy makeup nodded instantly.


    So, you must know where Dabei Temple is?


    The girl wearing thick makeup nodded again. Yeah, its not far from here. Its on a mountain.


    Great, I said excitedly. Please lead us to Dabei Temple!


    The girl wearing heavy makeup didnt sound willing at all. Brother, listen to me. Medical treatments now are very sophisticated. If we send him to a hospital, we can save him. Monks and temple things are simply superstitious. If this handsome brothers wounds get infected, Im afraid that even if we take him to a hospital, itll be toote


    I snorted. What do you know?! He got corpse poison in his body. No hospital can treat him. We must go to Dabei Temple, right now.


    The girl wearing heavy makeup was scared by my sudden outburst. She agreed and started guiding us.


    From the highway, we directly took a turn. After around twenty-something kilometers, we reached the foothills of a mountain.


    Before us, there was an imposing temple standing on the peak of the mountain. The entire temple was magnificent, and we could see wisps of white smoke rising from the building. Also, while we still had some distance to traverse, we could already smell the sandalwood aroma.


    I took a deep breath and got out of the car. Shouldering the mysterious man, I began to climb the steps.


    Because I was focusing on the thoughts that the mysterious man was safe now, I temporarily forgot about my exhausted body.


    Persistently, I walked all the way to the mountain peak.


    By the time wed reached the summit, my body had reached its limit, and my legs were so numb that I couldnt feel them anymore. I was struggling to not pass out.


    Li Mazi quickly walked forward to knock on the door. Not long afterward, a few young monks appeared. Upon seeing the mysterious man and his gory body, they were startled and promptly helped me bring him into the temple.


    I couldnt catch up with them, so I screamed after them, Find Zen Master Baimei. Hurry, find Zen Master Baimei!


    The little monks turned to look at me before nodding. Then, one of them came to support me, asking me how I was rted to the mysterious man.


    I forced a smile. Closer than blood brothers


    After talking, my eyes drifted shut as I couldnt hold it anymore, and I passed out from exhaustion.


    The moment I opened my eyes again, I found a young monk using a towel to wipe my forehead. My mouth felt so dry, so I wanted some water, and as Id recovered a bit of my strength, I tried to sit up.


    Wheres my wounded friend? I took a deep breath, asking.


    The little monk smiled at me. You meant Benefactor Chuyi?


    Chuyi? Was that the name of the mysterious man?I nodded immediately.


    Benefactor Chuyi is safe now, the little monk said. Hes in Zen Master Baimeis zen room to cure his wounds.


    I exhaled in relief. Thats good then. Oh right, how do you know that hes called Chuyi?


    The little monk smiled. Hes always Zen Master Baimeis honored guest whenever he visits. His ss and identity are really high. We dont even have the qualifications to look straight at him.


    I was a little moved. Id never thought that the mysterious man had such high standing.


    The young monk smiled, asking, Are you going to see Benefactor Chuyi now?


    I instantly nodded. Oh right, can I see him now? Will it affect Zen Master Baimeis treatment for him?


    The young monk told me, Im not sure, but Zen Master Baimei told me that when you woke up, I could take you to the zen room.


    Wheres my other friend? I meant Li Mazi.


    The monk answered, Hes praying in the hall. Im going to take you to the zen room first.


    I nodded to him.


    The little monk led me to a quiet zen room in a remote corner. I didnt expect that a senior monk would live in such a remote area. Did he vite something and being kept in a dark room was the punishment?


    I gently knocked on the door, then heard a strong voice call out from inside, Please,e in!


    I pushed the door open and saw the mysterious man sitting in front of Zen Master Baimei. His torso was naked and he was only wearing a pair of shorts. He wasnt bleeding anymore, but there were still many wounds and scratches on his body, which was really horrible to see.


    Seeing me, the mysterious man gave me a smile before he walked out of the zen room.


    As he passed, he told me that Zen Master Baimei wanted to talk to me in private. I nodded, then respectfully sat down in front of the Zen Master.


    Zen Master Baimei observed me for a moment, then asked, Young Benefactor, after you fainted, I checked the contents of your bag. Please dont me me! Anyway, I have some doubts. Howe you have the Yin and Yang Umbre and the Sirius Whip?


    I answered him honestly, Theyre from my grandfather.


    Ah, so they belonged to Brother Zhang Yaoyang.


    Thats my grandfathers name. I looked at Zen Master Baimei in surprise. How did he know my grandfathers name? Hed even called him brother. Was there some untold rtionship between the two?


    So its true, Zen Master Baimei sighed. Back then, your grandfather and I had a good friendship. Too bad, sigh, its not easy to predict the future


    I nodded. Thank you, Zen Master, for your concern.


    Later on, you must be careful, Zen Master Baimei said. Brother Yaoyang offended many old freaks in the otherworldly itemsmunity. Im afraid theyll vent their anger on you.


    I was perplexed, because Zen Master Baimei and my grandfather didnt look like they had anything inmon.


    In my memories, my grandfather was a loyal and honest merchant. He was a man of harmony and enthusiasm. Until now, he hadnt had any enemies. Why would Zen Master Baimei say that my grandfather had a lot of enemies? Noticing the different impressions we had of my grandfather, I couldnt help but ask him again.


    Zen Master Baimei smiled. Different people see different situations. Of course, they wouldnt be the same. No need to talk so much.


    I nodded, looking pensive.


    In the future, if you meet any trouble, you can tell me. Ill try my best to help you.


    Feeling touched, I once again nodded.


    At this moment, I suddenly thought of something. Since my grandfather had many enemies, would his death be rted to those enemies...?


    With this thought, my mind started racing, so I immediately raised the question.

 Chapter 52: Break The Curse

    Chapter 52: Break The Curse


    Merciful Buddha, Zen Master Baimei chanted. The ancestors are gone, so why would the children find sadness themselves? When you see life, it cant always be life. Likewise, when you see death, it doesnt necessarily mean death. Its a cycle that repeats itself indefinitely. Theres no need to be surprised.


    After listening to Zen Master Baimei, I knew that there was a problem surrounding my grandfathers death. Due to that, I didnt listen to his lecture about the great principle. If someone had caused my grandfathers death, with my fierce character, I must find the murderer!


    Immediately, I asked, Zen Master Baimei, please tell me honestly. How did my grandfather die? Which enemy killed him? You dont need to hide such information from me. I know Im not strong enough now, so I wont go and take revenge for him. When Im strong enough, Ill take action.


    Zen Master Baimei put his palms together in front of his chest. Benefactor, your character and Brother Yaoyangs are pretty simr. Good! I promise you. When youre strong enough, Ill tell you. For now, theres no need to continue with this topic


    Then, Zen Master Baimei closed his eyes and began to knock on his wooden fish, saying nothing else.


    If I wasnt thankful that hed saved the mysterious man, I wouldve stepped forward and kicked his wooden fish away.


    When I pushed the doors of the zen room open, I saw the mysterious man waiting for me outside.


    I approached him and asked, Are you okay now?


    The mysterious man nodded, then took out something small and round like a grapefruit. The ball was ck and white.


    I was shocked. The man had gotten a corpse bead?


    This corpse bead looked exactly like a human eye. However, it was calcified and it was really rigid.


    Swallow it, the mysterious man said.


    What? I thought Id misheard him. Bewildered, I looked at the man.


    The mysterious man spoke again, Swallow it and it can lift the curse on your back.


    Li Mazi arrived out of the blue. As soon as hed found out that I had to swallow this antique worth one million, hed felt an ache in his tummy and had hurried over to stop me.


    I also felt disgusted. It was actually some zombies eyeball! Even if I tried hard to swallow it, I would soon vomit.


    However, for the sake of my little life, I gritted my teeth and swallowed the corpse bead at once.


    The mysterious man told me that I shouldnt eat any spicy food within three days or it would affect the corpse beads healing effects. After the curse was broken, Id vomit the corpse bead out.


    Three dayster, the mysterious man received the corpse bead and left without bidding farewell. My entire body felt much better. At least, the irritated feeling on my back was gone. I checked myself in the mirror and found that the eyes on each side of my spine were now scars.


    We didnt stay in Dabei Temple for long since the meals here werent delicious, and Li Mazi really missed his son. So, on the second day after the mysterious man had left, we also bid farewell.


    As Yin Xinyue had helped Li Mazi take care of his son for several days, Li Mazi wanted to thank her. When he invited us for dinner, I didnt deny him as it was rare for Li Mazi to be this generous.


    During the dinner, Yin Xinyue was extremely curious. She wanted to know about all the thrilling events that wed experienced recently. So, Li Mazi immediately began to rant about how hed fought against the zombies with his great intelligence, saving me from the zombies teeth. He fabricated such a nice story.


    I felt that this man somewhat resembled Lin Zhengying. [1]


    Li Mazis son looked at his father with admiration in his eyes. I could tell how important Li Mazi was in his sons heart. So, I didnt interrupt and just patiently listened to him.


    Of course, Yin Xinyue didnt buy it as she kept smiling at me. Looking at the sly tilt in her smile, I couldnt help but recall Jing Jing.


    Regarding Jing Jings death, I still wasnt okay with what had happened. However, I had tried my best, so I didnt me myself too much.


    After eating, Yin Xinyue suggested that we go shopping. Li Mazi happily agreed.


    However, Yin Xinyue was a shopaholic and she bought so many things, including clothes and bags, all from famous brands. Li Mazi furrowed his brows as he was full of regret.


    Li Mazi resolutely brought me to a remote corner, smiling as he said, Little brother, I paid for dinner, but the shopping isnt my treat. Well pay together, okay?


    I knew that it wasnt easy to make Li Mazi pay. I threw him a nce out of the corner of my eye. When did it be a shared cost? We didnt have amission for this operation, so pay for it yourself.


    Who said there was nomission? Li Mazi grinned. You shouldnt forget that we still have the Hongyang de. Dont tell me that it isnt worth anything. I asked the mysterious man and he said that its worth at least two million.


    Damn, he had even checked the price!


    It was true that the mysterious man had left the Hongyang de to us, but I didnt intend on selling it. Firstly, it was a gift from the mysterious man. Secondly, I didnt know that weapon could do. Who would pay a high price for a rusty machete?


    Anyway, Li Mazi would never ept these excuses. So, I lied to him and said that Id find a suitable buyer for the de. After I received the payment, Id repay him todays shopping expenses.


    No matter what, Li Mazi was a businessman. As he was worried that Id do something during the transaction, he repeatedly told me to let him be present at the time the deal took ce.


    I agreed happily, thinking: Well, dude, you can wait for the rest of your life. I probably wont be able to sell that de before I die.


    However, I never expected that a buyer would show up at my door, wanting to buy the machete...


    He was a rich Taiwanese man who owned a security business. He told me that the Hongyang de contained the spirits of the Yang family Generals, which would help him subdue hispetitors and protect his staff. Also, it would increase his reputation and power.


    At first, I thought that Li Mazi had disclosed the Hongyang des story. I was furious and didnt want to sell the item. However, the buyer told me that it was the mysterious man whod told him toe here.


    Now, I knew that it was all the mysterious mans idea.


    Since it was his idea, I wasnt conflicted anymore. I sold the sword to the Taiwanese businessman for two million.


    Of course, that money wouldnt just be divided between me and Li Mazi. I also added a share for the mysterious man.


    When Li Mazi received more than six hundred thousand, he was so excited, telling me I was his benefactor. If he hadnt met me, his sons leukemia wouldnt have been treated.


    I told him, If youre really grateful, then you should give me fifty or eighty thousand. Ill be happy to receive it. Li Mazi disappeared in the blink of an eye


    The otherworldly item business was a pit. Once you jump in, you shouldnt think about getting out. Li Mazi and I were good examples.


    But, I never imagined that even Yin Xinyue would be involved as well.


    After the previous urrence, almost every night, Yin Xinyue would ask me out for supper. It had somehow be our routine.


    She told me that her heavy workload exhausted her physically and mentally. It was only when she was with me that she felt better and happier.


    Although I was a little reluctant at first, after a while, it became a habit.


    Therefore, tonight, when Yin Xinyue didnt meet me, I didnt know why, but I felt unexpectedly empty.


    However, I didnt call her. I thought perhaps that something new had caught her interest. Girls like her always favored new things over old, right?


    The next morning at around dawn, my mobile phone rang. Yin Xinyues portrait was vibrating on my screen. I felt somewhat excited, so I hurried to pick up the phone.


    However, on the other side, Yin Xinyues voice was hoarse and filled with tears.


    Instantly, I became nervous as I felt that something had happened to Yin Xinyue!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lam_Ching-ying

 Chapter 53: Ghost Call

    Chapter 53: Ghost Call


    Indeed, my guess was correct.


    She told me that shed gotten involved in a murder case and was now at the police station.


    Immediately, my scalp started tingling, but I didnt dig further. Instead, I asked for directions to the police station.


    I didnt know why I was so worried about her. Actually, I was currently only nervous as I didnt have much time to think.


    When I arrived at the front gate of the police station, I called Yin Xinyue. Shortly after, a middle-aged policeman came over and took me to his office.


    Yin Xinyue was sitting there, biting her lower lip and looking a little hurt. When she saw me, she burst out crying again like pear flowers in the rain, her teary eyes blurry. My heart twinged. I hugged her andforted her by saying, Its all right. Hush, dont cry. Im here, right?


    The officer gave me his business card as he smilingly introduced himself. Mister Zhang, good morning. Ive heard of your name. Im called Li Yuntian, the incumbent Chief of the Criminal Police Department.


    Good day, Officer Li. I shook his hand, asking, Excuse me, sir, what happened?


    Li Yuntian forced a smile. I dont know what to say. But, this case is a little weird! Ive been working for years and Ive never seen such a strange case


    Then, Li Yuntian simply described the case to me.


    Today, at around 2 a.m, police received reports of a horrible homicide in Binjiang Apartments. Police immediately rushed to the scene. On the third floor of the apartment building, they saw the murder.


    They found a girl whose head was almostpletely severed save for the thin piece of skin still connected to her neck. Shey on the steps of the stairs, her head hanging. Shed died in a crawling position. Her blood had dyed dozens of stairs red.


    At first nce of the murder scene, people jolted in shock.


    The door to the victims house was open, and there was a trail of blood leaving the apartment. The police immediately determined that it was an extremely cruel murder case. They protected the scene and tried to look for all relevant clues.


    As it turned out, the case gradually became more unimaginable


    First, they checked the surveince camera in the corridor. There, they saw the victim crawling out of the house, her head already wounded. In principle, she shouldnt have survived such a fatal injury. However, she was still alive and crawling out of her house toward the stairs, which was extremely strange.


    Additionally, the cut on her neck was strangely neat. Apparently, it was made by arge, sharp knife. However, the police hadnt found any possible murder weapons in the victims house. They couldnt even find any fingerprints of a third party.


    Even stranger, at around 4 a.m, two hours after the deceased was killed, two phone calls were made.


    One of the calls was made to Yin Xinyue, and another was to a strange number. However, the police hadnt found the owner of that strange number yet.


    Thest person the victim had contacted was Yin Xinyue. That was why Yin Xinyue was asked to go to the police station to give a witness statement.


    I shuddered. The material on my back was damp with sweat. Her head was connected to her neck by only a strip of skin, yet she could still crawl out of her house.


    Was she a zombie or something?


    Frightened, I looked at Li Yuntian. Officer Li, whats the official conclusion?


    Li Yuntian frowned, his face grimacing as he handed me a cigarette. For this sort of case, you tell me. How do we close it? Itspletely cold. Theres no normal methods to investigate. Sigh, I have a headache already.


    Alright, you guys can go! Li Yuntian waved his hand. Anyway, Miss Yin, you have to stay home in case we need your presence again. And, were skeptical about whether or not that thest call from the victim was made by the murderer. The murderer wouldnt just call you for no reason. Please be careful in the future. If you think its necessary, you can ask for police protection.


    Yin Xinyue shook her head, her face pale. She didnt have the mind to care about these details. She thanked Li Yuntian before following me out of the police station.


    After leaving the police station, I asked her, Yin Xinyue, how are you rted to the victim?


    Yin Xinyue said, My bestie! She was my friend in college from the performance department. Currently, she was an intern at mypany.


    I asked, What did you do with her thest time you met her?


    My bestie had the hobby of collecting calligraphy paintings. Yesterday, I went with her to an antiques market and bought an ancient painting with calligraphy. Then, Yin Xinyue looked at me with odd eyes. The reason I called you for help is


    You think its an otherworldly item, right? I intervened.


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Yes.


    I took a deep breath as I silently withdrew a cigarette. So, you want me to help solve this case?


    Yin Xinyue forced a smile. I dont know. But, she died so mysteriously. Im worried that she wont be willing and will be a ghost to visit me. Sigh, Im really entangled here


    I gently patted her shoulder. Actually, its possible that I might not be able to help with this case. Its not that I cant deal with the otherworldly item, but the local police is already on the case, and this is maind Chinas police were talking about Theyll never rte such a case with a paranormal event. Im sure theyll go to arge group of experts and use science to exin everything. Do you think theyll believe you when you say its a mess caused by some otherworldly item?


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Then, dont worry. Im innocent. I didnt do anything wrong, so Im not afraid of any ghost knocking at my door.


    I patted Yin Xinyues shoulder andforted her. Its all right. Let me take you home first.


    When I took her home, I was surprised to discover that she was living alone in a vi. She was just a secretary at an entertainmentpany, so how could she get the money to buy this big vi?


    Did the girl have a sugar daddy? Anyway, I thought it was impossible since Id never seen her being close with any man, especially an old man.


    Since her bestie had been murdered, Yin Xinyue didnt dare to live alone. She asked me to stay with her for the next several days.


    I could see the fear in her face, so I nodded in agreement. It was a good chance to experience the wealthy life, though. If it were good,ter on, I would also try to buy a vi to materialize my dream.


    Yin Xinyue wasnt in a good mood considering everything that had happened, so she went to bed early. She didnt even have dinner. I bored on my own, so I sat down in the living room to watch TV.


    I stayed awake until almost dawn. Finally, I was too tired and dozed off.


    However, I hadnt closed my eyes for long before someone tried to wake me up. Opening my drowsy eyes, I saw that Yin Xinyue was standing and crying in front of me while gently tugging my arm.


    I got up immediately, asking her, Yin Xinyue, what happened?


    Yin Xinyue was terrified as she gave me her phone. She she texted me again.


    It felt like my scalp exploded. Instantly, I sat back on the sofa. Who sent you a text message?


    "My deceased bestie.


    I received the phone, seeing two missed calls and one text message. The text said, Did you see my hands?


    Damn!


    I was scared, almost throwing the phone away. Are you sure this is your besties number?


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Pretty sure.


    My sleepy head was clear now. I hurried to turn on all the lights in the living room whileforting Yin Xinyue that it could be a malicious joke. That phone should be at the police station. I asked her, Did you offend that officer? Maybe hes just trying to tease you?


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. I didnt offend any officer.


    I furrowed my brow. Stay here until dawn, then well go to the police station to ask.


    However, before we could go to the police station, we received a call from Li Yuntian.


    Li Yuntians voice sounded anxious and hurried. As he was stammering, he was obviously very confused and scared.


    Anyway, eventually, I got his message. The victims hands were gone.


    It matched what was written in the short text!


    I took a deep breath and checked on Yin Xinyue. Yin Xinyue waspletely petrified.


    On the other side, after Li Yuntian could stabilize his mood, he suddenly asked me out for a drink.


    I told him that I didnt drink alcohol.


    Li Yuntian said, Its okay that you dont drink. I would like to have tea with you. All right, see you at Qingyun Teahouse.


    Then, Li Yuntian didnt give me a chance to deny as he abruptly hung up.


    Begrudgingly, I put the phone down and said to Yin Xinyue, These officers dont seem to care for appearances. I didnt agree, yet he invited me for tea on his own.


    Yin Xinyue understood what it meant and she beamed shyly. Im sorry, Brother Zhang. I pulled you into the water again.


    Its okay, I said. Whates wille, no matter what!


    Both Yin Xinyue and I understood that Li Yuntian couldnt bear the case any further. That was why he wanted to have tea and had asked me, an otherworldly item merchant, for help!

 Chapter 54: An Ancient Painting

    Chapter 54: An Ancient Painting


    Actually, I was curious. Through which channel had Li Yuntian discovered that I was an otherworldly item merchant?


    And, how much headway had he made in this horrible homicide case to guess that it was rted to an otherworldly item?


    Right from the start, I doubted that Yin Xinyue had disclosed my upation to Li Yuntian. Anyway, Yin Xinyue shook her head like a rattle drum, resolutely confirming that she hadnt said anything.


    Then, it was too strange!


    Afterward, I discovered the truth.


    Li Yuntian told me that when he was still an intern at the Criminal Police Department, hed seen my father assisting the police before. That was when he found out about the otherworldly item merchants and this business.


    Of course, at first, Li Yuntian and many other people had thought that otherworldly merchants were some sort of ancient and superstitious hoaxers. They didnt have any real skills. In short, Li Yuntian disdained them, and hed even thought that his leaders were ignorant as theyd invited those with the lowest profession to assist in solving cases.


    And today, as hed be a leader himself, he finally understood the difficulties of being a leader.


    Hed used all of his sources, and there was still no progress in the case. And now, even the corpse wasnt intact.


    His superior was so angry that his face had turned purple, and hed even pped the table in front of his colleagues, causing Li Yuntian to be backed in a corner. That was why hede to me, an otherworldly merchant, for help.


    Of course, it wasnt that hed onlye to me as one of his options in a desperate situation. Hed heard about me when I helped the Hong Kong Police solve a serial suicidal case. At that time, the Hong Kong Police had posted a letter of gratitude to me on their website.


    Although the letter didnt mention any special tricks of mine, as Li Yuntian was a smart guy, he could guess how Id helped them.


    In this moment, Li Yuntian eyed me with a bright look, waiting for my answer.


    As things hade to this, I could only reluctantly agree.


    Li Yuntian was very excited, but what he saidter displeased me. It was about my identity in this case. He could only make me an enthusiastic citizen as it was the way to save him and me from public critique.


    I was irritated, but I didn''t have any other option. Growing up under the big system, we must obey the arrangements from the superiors.


    Then, I asked him to take me to the murder scene to check. First, I wanted to know or at least guess, the origin of that otherworldly item!


    Li Yuntian said no more and directly drove me to the scene.


    The crime scene was barricaded, and there was no longer any family staying on the third floor. Since an evil and horrible homicide had happened nearby, even if they were braver, no one dared to stay!


    Li Yuntian told me, Because of the special nature of this case, the victims remains are still preserved on the scene. We have two policemen watching, and weve installed more cameras.


    Hurriedly, I asked Li Yuntian, The hands of the corpse disappeared yesterday? Did the cameras capture it?


    Li Yuntian nodded. Yeah, both of the hands were cut neatly and no traces were left. The officers on dutyst night insisted that nothing had happenedst night. I checked the cameras. Everything was normal.


    I suddenly asked, Why did you want to install cameras at the crime scene?


    Li Yuntian awkwardly scratched his head. I guessed pretty quickly that it wasnt a case rted to humans. I wanted to capture the evidence to show my superiors how evil and strange it is, so that we could make better progress. Anyway, I havent recorded anything useful. Thats why I had to find you personally


    I understood his moves. This case was like a double-edged sword. If he solved it well, the water would rise and push the boats together. If the case failed, his career would be affected greatly.


    The scene of the murder was indeed not ordinary. An appallinglyrge streak of blood stretched from the room to the stairs. Except for that, nothing else looked strange.


    Because, even the table in the room was clean and neat.


    And, at the spot where the blood streak started, I saw the ancient calligraphy painting that Yin Xinyue had mentioned.


    That ancient calligraphy painting was hung on the wall, and beneath it was a sandalwood table with an arrangement of apples, bananas, candles, and all kinds of tributes.


    When the victim was still alive, shed worshipped this calligraphy painting!


    It seemed that the girl had some strange thoughts and wanted to achieve something through this painting.


    Immediately, I studied the painting.


    This painting had been made quite a long time ago as the surface was now yellowed with many damaged spots. I wanted to check the luokuan [1] to see who the author of this painting was.


    However, it seemed that the painter didnt want to reveal his or her identity because the luokuan only read: Tang, Greater China, year 16.


    No wonder, this painting hade from the Tang Dynasty, which was the peak period in Chinese ancient calligraphy paintings. Many famous painters had emerged at that time! For example, the Sage Painter Wu Daozi and Yan Liben.


    The topics of paintings during that period mainly focused on customs, mountains or rivers, or traveling. However, the painting hung in front of me was bizarre as it didnt depict ancient customs or any mountains or rivers. At first nce, it looked like a scene from an execution!


    The painting depicted a poor, disheveled prisoner kneeling on a scaffold. His hands and legs were tied as he was waiting for the executioner to end his life. Standing behind him was a thick bearded executioner wearing red clothes. He was lifting a huge machete, his expression fierce and malicious.


    The executioners facial details were so vivid that people could see that he was gritting his teeth in hate.


    Next to the scaffold, an officer satzily, watching the execution. Many people surrounded the ce, watching the scene with numb faces. They had no intent to stop it; it was as if they were just there to watch the fun.


    I took a deep breath. Although I havent been in this business for a long time, Id studied antiques since I was pretty young.


    Even if the number of ancient calligraphy paintings Id seen wasnt one thousand, it still wouldnt be less than several hundred!


    However, Id never seen such a decapitation painting like this.


    This piece could be said to be unique in its kind with great value in terms of art. I thought that it couldnt be bought with money alone. My heart thumped as I felt the urge to take the painting and put it in my pocket.


    Of course, before putting it into my pocket, I must eliminate the evilness in it. Otherwise, it wouldnt be different from inviting a murderous spirit to my house.


    Li Yuntian asked me, Mister Zhang, do you have any ideas?


    I shook my head. Nothing yet. But, Officer Li, I need to make this clear first. Will this painting be government property in the future?


    Understanding me, Li Yuntian smiled. No worries! I understand the rules in your business. As long as you help me solve the case, you can take the painting


    I told him, Good, Ille up with a solution soon. However, the urgent matter now is to find the hands of the deceased. Otherwise, I think you cant report it to your superior.


    Li Yuntian paled. So, you must know where the hands are?


    I nodded. Well, naturally, those hands are right in the police station.


    Li Yuntian was dumbstruck. The police station is further than ten kilometers away from the crime scene. How could the deceaseds hands run to the police station? You should know that the police station is well protected. Theres no chance a stranger could just enter.


    I said with a smile, Well, youre wrong. Did you forget what kind of case were having here? When ites to otherworldly items, how can we use normal reasoning? I know words alone wont be enough. Okay, lets go to the police station.


    Li Yuntian energetically nodded and drove us to the police station.


    I asked him to take me to where the deceaseds mobile phone was kept, which was at the Evidence Unit.


    The moment I told Li Yuntian that I wanted to see the victims phone, he looked at me oddly. Mister Zhang, arent we going to find the victims hands? Why do you want to see the phone?


    I answered mysteriously, The hands are near the phone.


    "Are you sure?


    The deceased used her hands to text Yin Xinyue a short message. Then, I asked Yin Xinyue to show Li Yuntian the text message.


    When Li Yuntian saw the text, he paled and started trembling. W-Whats happening? How could a dead person send a text message?


    I told him that it was rted to magical items and that logical reasoning couldnt be applied.


    Li Yuntian didnt ask further. He contacted the officer in charge of the Evidence Unit and asked him to open the locker containing the phone.


    The moment the locker was opened, two things fell out. People were startled as a pair of gory hands hit the floor!


    The hands were cut at the wrists, so well-performed that the bones, and even the veins, were visible and neat. One of the hands was still tightly gripping a phone.


    The phone screen was stuck on the SMS interface, which showed that a text message had recently been sent. This was truly shocking!


    1. Inscription with name, date, or a short sentence found on a gift, painting, or letter.

 Chapter 55: Emerge by the Burning Coal

    Chapter 55: Emerge by the Burning Coal


    The police personnel in charge of the Evidence Unit shrieked horribly. He was so shocked that he wanted to run for his life.


    However, he still stood at the door and shakily apologized to Li Yuntian as he med himself for such an incident urring.


    Li Yuntian waved his hand, signaling for the officer to not scream and letting him go.


    After the policeman had left, Li Yuntian turned to me, his face pale. Mister Zhang, you meant the corpse came to the police station, sent the message, and then left its hands here?


    I shook my head in confusion. I dont think so.


    If the corpse hade here, the officers on night duty wouldve seen it.


    Li Yuntian seemed to remember something. He hurriedly turned on theputer to check the surveince cameras in the police stationst night.


    Indeed, yesterday, the surveince cameras showed that everything was normal. There werent any suspicious movements.


    Li Yuntian asked me, What should we do now?


    I smiled mysteriously. Do you want to know who cut off the corpses hands?


    Li Yuntian nodded repeatedly.


    I told him, Its simple. Go and get me a brazier, the hotter the better. Just put it here. Within one hour, Im sure youll see something youd never be able to imagine!


    Li Yuntian bewilderedly looked at me. Apparently, he was questioning what a brazier could do. Anyway, he didnt say anything as he hurriedly left to find the item I required.


    Wearing a curious face, Yin Xinyue asked me, Why do you want a brazier? Are you going to do something disgusting, like, grilling the hands?


    I burst outughing. Why does a little girl like you always have morbid thoughts like this every day?


    Yin Xinyue pouted. It has nothing to do with that. I know you have heavy taste. Remember the time in Hong Kong, when you cooked a big pot of radish andrge bowel soup?


    I immediately felt nauseous, asking her to stop talking about that.


    Around one hourter, Li Yuntian returned. Two workers followed him, carrying a brazier with burning coals inside. Panting, they ced the brazier in the Evidence Room and asked me what to do next.


    I looked at the zing stove with a smile We dont need to do anything else. Just wait here. Oh right, please close the door.


    Li Yuntians curiosity increased. Despite that, he said nothing and closed the door as Id asked.


    The fire from the coals in the brazier grew higher, like a dancing me. Gradually, the temperature in the room increased, making people sweat. Eventually, Yin Xinyue couldnt hold it anymore. She asked me, Is it okay if we turn on the air-conditioner?


    I waved my hand in denial. No, we have to close the door because Im afraid of the wind.


    Shortly after, my method worked!


    White residue slowly emerged on spots on the ground. One hourter, I checked and saw that the spots of residues had almost all appeared. Then, I called Li Yuntian over to check them out.


    Li Yuntian had constantly been gazing at the brazier as he couldnt imagine what woulde out of the fire. When I called him, he finally reacted and walked towards me.


    I pointed at the ashes on the ground to catch his attention.


    The residue congregated into obvious footprints, which came from the door to the lockers of the Evidence Unit.


    When Li Yuntian saw this, he was scared out of his wits. Hurriedly, he asked me, What on earth happened?


    I patted Li Yuntians shoulder, answering, Actually, this white residue is the result of burning carbon. And, the carbon isnt from your brazier. Theyre from the ancient painting


    "The ancient painting?" Li Yuntian was terrified. How are these things here rted to the ancient painting?


    Think about it, I said. In ancient times, the mainponent of ink was carbon. When they used ink to draw characters, they would of course use carbon to do that. The executioner from the painting came here, and he left footprints. Those footprints are made from carbon. Under high heat, carbon will release carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, resulting in white residue.


    Li Yuntian was now petrified. You mean those footprints were left by the executioner in the painting?


    I shrugged. I think my exnation is clear enough.


    Li Yuntian squatted, pinching some white residue between his fingers. Pondering for a while, he sighed, Youre really an expert!


    Since he believed me now, it would be easier for me to take action. I told Li Yuntian that I wanted to stay alone tonight at the crime scene to capture the ghost. I needed him to find some solution to not let anybody elsee close, especially the police.


    Li Yuntian nodded resolutely. Good, its no problem. I can handle it. But If you dont want the police to stay close, I cant ensure your safety.


    I smiled. Its all right. Since I dare go there, Im certain about it.


    Li Yuntian then looked at me with more admiration in his eyes!


    After talking to Li Yuntian, I went back to my shop to prepare. On the way back, Yin Xinyue seemed to want to tell me something, but she didnt. Looking at her hesitating, irritated expression, I asked, You want to tell me something?


    Yin Xinyue said, Tonight, Ill go with you! Its my problem and now you have to take risks. Im worried.


    "What are you worried about? Listening to Yin Xinyue, I felt warm. And, its not that Im going to help you for nothing. That murderous weapon is a priceless treasure! Taking risks for a priceless treasure is worth it!


    Yin Xinyue sighed. You shouldnt lie to me. What about finding someone to assist you? I know someone experienced in dealing with otherworldly items, too. At most, you can give him amission after were done with this.


    I looked at Yin Xinyue with surprise. You know some other otherworldly merchant? Whos that?


    Yin Xinyue said, You dont need to worry about that now. Tonight, Ill ask him to go to the crime scene and meet you there.


    I gave her a faint smile. Good then. Thatll do.


    Actually, I wasnt really certain about the mission tonight. If I had an assistant, Id feel safer. But still, I wondered if that otherworldly merchant was reliable or not.


    Yin Xinyue and I went to have a simple meal. She even asked me to go and watch a movie herpany had just released. She told me that it was to rx.


    I wasnt in the mood to go to a movie. But, I couldnt resist her nice offer, so I eventually went to the cinema with her. For the entire length of the movie, I was absent-minded while Yin Xinyue was crying her heart out.


    Actually, I liked romantic movies as well, and I always felt that watching a movie in the cinema with a beautiful girl was very intoxicating.


    However, this feeling and wish of mind were overwhelmed by that murderous ancient painting!


    When the sun set, I went to the crime scene early to wait. I still wondered if the otherworldly merchant Yin Xinyue had asked toe and support me was reliable or not. Would he have real knowledge or would he just be a fraud?


    While waiting for him, I arranged something in the room.


    Soon, I heard someone knocking on the door. I ran to open the door as I thought that it must be the otherworldly merchant that Yin Xinyue had asked toe.


    Baby Oh crap, why is it you? As soon as the door sprung open, a wretched voice reached my ear. However, that voice soon turned insulting.


    And, I now saw the man standing at the door. I cheered up as it was Li Mazi.

 Chapter 56: Immortals in the Painting

    Chapter 56: Immortals in the Painting


    I didnt know whether tough or cry as I stared at Li Mazi. Hello, Li Mazi. We meet again.


    Li Mazi was so angry that his face turned purple. He shot me a look. Im sorry, I got the wrong room


    Then, he turned around to leave.


    Anyhow, the fact that he hade was a boost to my courage, so how could I let him go? Thus, I strode forward, calling to Li Mazi, No, you didnt get the wrong room. Yin Xinyue called you here, right?


    Li Mazi rolled his big donkey-like eyes as he scolded, You two have plotted against me!


    I smiled. Arent you going to give me any face? If you want to leave, you can leave now. That is, if you''re not worried that Yin Xinyue will never pay attention to you again for the rest of your life.


    Under my coercion, Li Mazi could only shoot me a hateful nce and stay.


    It turned out that Yin Xinyue had called Li Mazi and asked him toe here for a surprise. Since Li Mazi was a pervert, hed naturally thought it was for something perverse. That was why hed rushed here


    Li Mazi asked me what the case involved. I didnt try to conceal anything and told him everything.


    After listening to me, Li Mazi frowned. If the executioner in the painting is that fierce, arent we seeking death by staying here?


    I said, Dont worry! Even if we cant solve it tonight, our lives wont be threatened!


    Curiously, Li Mazi asked me, Why is the executioner in the painting killing people?


    I exined, Its a type of otherworldly item. In our business, we call it Immortals in the Painting.


    When the characters in ancient paintings are in contact with people for a long time, they gradually absorb human energy. This recovers their original characteristics and intelligence, which would make them think that they arent dead. Then, theyd continue the actions theyd done while they were still alive. For example, the executioner would still conduct executions, and the judge would still convict people!


    Li Mazi was scared by my exnation. He hurriedly asked me, Will the executioner behead us both?


    I smiled. Ive prepared. Were going to be safe and sound. Then, I took out the outfits Id prepared and threw one to Li Mazi.


    They were two official Rank 4 Upper Grade uniforms from the Tang Dynasty that Id collected.


    Yin Xinyue had found them in herpany. These clothes were used during the filming of some historical dramas about the Tang Dynasty. The degree of restoration of these two outfits was really high.


    My idea was that if Li Mazi and I dressed like Tang Dynasty officials, that blood-thirsty executioner wouldnt attack a royal courts official, would he?


    Li Mazi was still worried. However, as things hade to this, worries or fear could do nothing.


    Li Mazi and I then used water ink to smear our bodies ck. It made us look more like the two characters from the ancient drawing, which would save us from the executioners doubt.


    After we put on the Rank 4 Upper Grade uniforms, we sat down on the ground, staring at the painting.


    Li Mazi asked me what would happen next. If I told him early, he would have time to prepare himself well.


    I smiled, telling him, I think the executioner in the painting wille out with his machete. Our purpose is to figure out why he wants to kill innocent people.


    As he could show his spirit, he apparently wasnt reconciled with death!


    Li Mazi nodded fearfully.


    Seeing him shiver, I begrudgingly patted his shoulder. You cant act like this. Since were acting as judges, we must show the aura of judges!


    If we were busted, we would all be doomed


    Li Mazi looked at me and asked me to punch him. I wondered why he was looking for a fight. Li Mazi said that hed only be full of spirit when he was angry.


    It was a rare chance, so I didnt say anything and pped him. Instantly, Li Mazi was enraged, showing a fierce expression. Indeed, he looked more like a judge now.


    I myself also tried to think about things that could make me angry. That was how I earned myself a solemn and majestic look!


    With that thought, I couldnt help but think about my grandfather and fathers death.


    As soon as I thought that they were killed by some organization, I couldnt restrain the wrath of anger in my heart. Instantly, my aura was boosted several times.


    It seemed that Li Mazis method worked well!


    Tonight, it was strangely quiet as we couldnt even hear an insect chirping. There was only me and Li Mazi on this entire third floor. And, the ancient painting. We didnt turn the light on because it would affect the Immortals in the Painting.


    The blood streaks inside the room were cleaned, and the corpse was moved to the mortuary. However, I still smelled the faint tang of blood, which made me remember the beheaded victim crawling on the ground. Subconsciously, I had goosebumps.


    Li Mazis seriousness didntst for long before it was broken by his urge to use the bathroom. He restrained himself until his face reddened, but he didnt dare to go to the toilet alone. He asked me to go with him.


    After relieving ourselves, we came back and took our seats in front of the ancient painting!


    As time ticked by, I gradually found changes inside the painting. At first, an evil, strange wind arrived, rattling the painting. Right after that, a pair of blood-red eyes slowly emerged on the paper!


    That pair of eyes opened wider, sparkling with red lights as they gazed at us.


    I wondered how the eyes could glow, but their gaze made me even more flustered.


    In this moment, more red lights were emitted from the painting. Eventually, the light covered all the characters in the painting, including the judges, the executioner, the onlookers, and even the kneeling prisoner.


    Everybody was dyed red as if theyd been soaked in a blood-filled pond.


    I then saw drops of blood dripping from the ancient painting.


    Li Mazi couldnt sit still anymore. Frightened, he moved closer to me before finally hugging me tightly


    In this torment, we finally saw the Immortals in the Painting move. The executioner seemed to be alive as he wielded his huge machete, aiming at the prisoners neck and hacking fast.


    His speed was tremendous, and things happened in just the blink of an eye. The mans head was chopped off, falling from the painting to the ground and rolling towards our feet.


    That was when strange things started to happen. At the moment the head rolled towards us, I noticed our surroundings quickly changing.


    Color was leached from the world, turning it ck and white, and I found myself sitting at the judge''s table. The panting executioner was standing in front of me, looking at the headless body on the ground. The people watching began to sob and cry.


    My heart fell. This was beyond what I expected. Id never imagined that Id enter the world inside the painting!


    However, in this world, I was the judge, so I thought I was safe.


    After the executioner had finished his job, the crowd became silent, and some of them were sneakily wiping away their tears. It seemed like the prisoner was killed by a misjudgment.


    The sweating executioner looked at the corpse, and he couldnt gather himself for a long time.


    I watched him motionlessly as I knew there was a story behind this executioner. I must dig up his old story!


    Suddenly, the executioner ran to me, grumbling as he kneeled, Your Honor, I dont want to do this job anymore! I want to go home and work on the field, spending my old age at home!


    I took a deep breath. While I didnt know what to answer him with, my mouth automatically opened. Your hands are soaked with blood. If you dont do this, arent you afraid of retribution?


    "The Crown Prince was a good man! the executioner abruptly screamed. I should die. Its because of me that the Crown Prince didnt die intact. My hands let down Great Tang, so they must stay here!


    Then, he rose his machete, chopping off one of his hands.


    The scene immediately turned chaotic. The surrounding people began to scream and yell that the Crown Prince was innocent.


    Blood spurted everywhere, dying my official uniform. I was startled and jolted to my feet. I couldnt control my mouth as I once again spoke, You bold ve, you dare disturb the order of the court. Do you want to rebel?!


    You mad dog official, not only you killed our Great Tangs Crown Prince, but you also work for that evil Empress. Today, Ill act on behalf of the Heavens. Ill kill you to appease our Crown Princes soul!


    Then, he picked up his machete, and using his remaining arm, started shing at me!


    I was instantly filled with fear and tried to back off to avoid the executioners attack.


    But, the executioner was too strong and fast, and his machete hacked at my arm!


    In just the blink of an eye, my arm was cut off and my blood was spurting in all directions. I was petrified as I gawked in shock. This scene was beyond my expectations. I never thought that the executioner would dare to kill even the royal courts official


    Although Id prepared well, I still wasnt safe in this ce.


    Instinctively, I wanted to avoid further attacks and shouted for my soldiers to capture the rebel!

 Chapter 57: Tang Dynastys Elegy

    Chapter 57: Tang Dynasty''s Elegy


    The executioner was fierce, but he couldnt resist a crowd. Moreover, hed chopped off one of his arms. So, in no time at all, the soldiers had grabbed him and had him tied up on the ground.


    You rebel, you dared to try assassinating an official from the royal court! I now sentence you to death. Burn to death!


    Later on, the soldiers came, carrying a lot of wood. They tied the executioner to a pole where he continued to scream and curse indignantly. However, he couldnt scream for long as the mes quickly burned the wood. Soon, his body was covered in red mes.


    The executioner didnt move or cry anymore, and the onlookers became quiet again. I was pleased as I watched the entire scene.


    After a while, the mes disappeared and everything was shrouded in darkness. My consciousness returned to my body and I subconsciously switched my shlight on.


    I immediately saw the familiar surroundings and I exhaled in relief. Lucky me, Id returned safe and sound.


    I quickly turned the lights on and found Li Mazi lying on the couch like hed suffered an epileptic fit, his mouth foaming. I was scared. If something bad happens to Li Mazi, how could I exin it to his son?


    I shook him. Li Mazi, wake up, wake up!


    Li Mazi gradually awakened. As soon as he could open his eyes, he screamed, I was attacked. I had my damn arm chopped off


    I immediately gave Li Mazi two ps across the face. Its okay now. Get your shit together.


    As the light returned to Li Mazis eyes, he started looking around absent-mindedly. Then, hey back on the couch. Oh crap, what just happened? We entered the world in the painting?


    I nodded, looking meaningfully at the ancient painting.


    At this moment, the ancient painting was still radiating an evil aura. It scared me. However, it wasnt the time for fear. I took Li Mazi with me as I left this horrible crime scene.


    I ran downstairs within one breath to where Li Yuntian was waiting for us in the police car. Seeing us, he stepped out to wee us, asking us what wed done to solve the problem.


    I took a deep breath. Were almost done. But, now we should seize the opportunity and go back to the mortuary. Its possible that the corpse has been burned.


    Li Yuntian was shocked and asked me how I could know that.


    I was so exhausted that I had to gasp for breath. I didnt have the time to fill him in, so I just asked him to drive faster.


    Although everything that had just happened was a hallucination, my arm was still in agony. It was as though my arm was actually chopped off by that executioner.


    So, like that, we drove all the way to the mortuary.


    As it was sote at night, even the manager of the mortuary was scared when we asked him to go with us. Ill give you the key. You go there yourself!


    We didnt force him. After receiving the key, we went to open the room. The moment the doors were pushed open, I could clearly feel a strong, evil wind blowing out from the morgue, bringing with it the smell of blood!


    And, in the never-ending darkness of the morgue, we saw a shadow even darker than water ink pacing back and forth. I took a deep breath before bellowing, Whos there?!


    The shadow was visibly startled and froze.


    Li Yuntian drew his gun and went to turn on the lights.


    As soon as he switched the lights on, the darkness was shooed away. There was no shadow in front of us now.


    However, my tense nerves didnt calm just because of that, since I knew that ck shadow was real.


    The executioner might have just stopped by.


    The three of us didnt dare to walk in. Eventually, we had to call more policemen toe with us to boost our courage. I was trembling with fear as I walked over to open the freezer holding the deceased.


    When the freezer tray was pulled out, the situation inside made me gawk in shock.


    The freezer was empty. The corpse had disappeared.


    Li Yuntian took a deep breath, his face dark. He yelled, Wheres the mortuarys manager? Bring him here. Wheres the corpse?


    Captain. However, at this moment, one of the policemen wed called over shakily called out. When we turned to him, we saw him pointing at the ceiling.


    My mind shivered. Slowly, I lifted my head to see


    There, I saw a rope hanging from the ceiling with one end tied to a corpse. The body was still swaying back and forth. The deads big, white eyes were open as they gazed at us.


    I took a deep breath. How could the corpse get up there? So, the executioner in the painting could perform physical actions like that? How big was the grudge he had against this girl? She was dead, but he didnt let her rest.


    Captain, what should we do now? asked one of the policemen, shivering.


    Li Yuntian looked at me, asking for my opinion.


    Leave her hanging up there, I said, Just let him vent his anger so that he doesnt hurt any other innocents


    Who is he? The policemen looked at me skeptically.


    I sighed. Instead of answering, I just asked them to leave.


    I also left the ancient painting at the morgue. The ability of the immortal in the picture was beyond my imagination. That was why I thought I should just follow his idea for now, if only to keep him from another dark scheme.


    After dawn, I returned to the mortuary with Li Yuntian. The corpses neck and head were nowpletely separated after one night of torment.


    We put the corpse, this time with all parts, into the freezer. Li Yuntian asked me, What should we do now?


    I told him, I know the story behind this painting! Since we now know, we can use the right medicine to cure the right sickness.


    Li Yuntian hurriedly asked, Whats the origin of the ancient painting? Why is it so malevolent?


    Yesterday, while I was in the world inside the painting, I heard the executioner keep calling the prisoner Crown Prince. He also said that the Crown Prince was innocent. During the Tang Dynasty, which Crown Prince was executed?


    Listening to my question, Li Yuntian was bewildered for a while. I dont know. Im not good at history.


    Crown Prince Yide, Li Mazi said excitedly. The one Wu Zetian killed.


    I nodded. Right, Wu Zetian wanted to be Empress to bring disaster to the people! Being the Crown Prince, Yide didnt agree. Yide was a kind man who always thought about his people, and he was the first person to protest against Wu Zetian. To threaten the others, Wu Zetian decided to kill him. The officials were so angry, but they couldnt do anything. The Li Tangs bloodline was cut off from that moment


    The executioner, who beheaded Crown Prince Yide, felt so sorry and sinful. He wanted to take justice for the Crown Prince, and he ended up being burned alive.


    I guess the executioner killed someone because he wanted to take revenge! Patiently, I analyzed the situation with Li Yuntian.


    However, Li Yuntian came up with a question. Why were the previous owners of the painting unharmed? And that girl had to receive all the bad luck as the executioner hade to behead her and even cut her hands off?


    I shook my head, indicating that I didnt know the details for now. Nevertheless, I had a bold guess. Perhaps that girl was rted to Wu Zetian or the judge who ordered Crown Prince Yides death sentence.


    That was why I had to talk to Li Yuntian. No matter what, he had to investigate the deceaseds genealogy. The best case was that we could trace it back to the Tang Dynasty!


    And, on the other hand, we must investigate the ancient paintings origins to find where it came from and who owned it previously.

 Chapter 58: Brother Long

    Chapter 58: Brother Long


    Li Yuntian nodded, telling me that he was on it.


    I returned to my shop. To my surprise, Yin Xinyue was there, preparing a table full of food.


    Seeing that I was back, Yin Xinyue immediately walked forward to clutch my arm smilingly. Li Mazi was angered, and he scolded her for not having any conscience. Yesterday, shed deceived him, yet hed still risked his life to solve her problem. However, she didnt show him any gratitude, and instead disyed her love in front of him.


    Yin Xinyue covered her mouth and smiled. You scoundrel, you dont know shame or embarrassment. I just said that I was there, yet you hurriedly headed to the apartment. I didnt force you to go.


    Instantly, Li Mazis thick-skinned face blushed. Awkwardly, he grabbed the chopsticks and dug in like a hungry tiger.


    I just smiled, washed my hands, and started to eat.


    Yin Xinyues cooking skills were really good. Although all the dishes weremon home-cooked foods, including sauted fried tofu strips, pak choy, stewed mushrooms and meat, I could taste the sweetness of home in them.


    After the meal, Yin Xinyue worriedly asked how we did in solving the case.


    I said, Were almost there. Weve now got an important clue. If we can trace this clue, well soon be able to eliminate the resentment in that ancient painting!


    Yin Xinyue gave a slight nod, her expression sad. I asked her, Are you okay?


    She shook her head. Im okay.


    However, I got the feeling that Yin Xinyue had something she couldnt find the right chance to tell me


    Wed been waiting around until nighttime when Li Yuntian finally called me, saying that there was some progress and that we should meet at the tea house wed previously met at.


    After we arrived at the tea house, we found that Li Yuntian had already made a pot of Longjing tea and was waiting for us by a window.


    Li Yuntian immediately handed me the copies of a document. Mister Zhang, I did as you requested and traced back the deceaseds hometown. You were unexpectedly right! The deceaseds genealogy does write that they were a famous family in the Tang Dynasty during Wu Zetians time. And, they did have a Rank 4 Vice Minister of Court of Judicial Review in the family. That year, the Vice Minister of Court of Judicial Review was the one whod supervised the death sentence of Crown Prince Yide!


    I nodded. It made sense.


    As the executioner was killed tragically, he had a deep grudge against the judge, which had umted for thousands of years. Now, it was getting worse.


    The deceased was the descendant of that judge. Perhaps the executioner had mistaken her with her ancestor, and he wanted to retaliate the crime he had suffered in the past!


    I asked if Li Yuntian had investigated the seller of that ancient painting. Li Yuntian shook his head, sighing, Perhaps only the victim knew whom the previous owner is. I couldnt find out.


    Oh right, this sort of clue was really hard to find


    Anyway, I didnt notice an important matter: Yin Xinyue was there the moment the victim had purchased the ancient painting.


    When we told her that we wanted to find the dealer, Yin Xinyue said, Perhaps I can help you guys!


    Immediately, I asked, Yin Xinyue, do you know how to find the previous owner?


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Shed contacted him more than once. Im sure theres records for the calls. Youll know when you check her call history, right?


    Li Yuntian palmed the table, saying excitedly, Oh right, how could I forget that?


    Then, he left hurriedly.


    I didnt go with him, but waited with Yin Xinyue at the teahouse for Li Yuntians news.


    Soon after, Li Yuntian called us, telling us that hed found the sellers phone number and had made an appointment with him at the teahouse. He asked us to wait a little longer.


    I agreed.


    Yin Xinyue was suspicious as she asked, Why must we find the previous owner? If we find him and return the ancient painting, will everything be solved?


    I forced a smile, shaking my head. It isnt as easy as you think. We must find the origins of this painting. As long as we can find its origins, we can think about how to solve it


    Yin Xinyue sighed. Its reallyplicated. This ancient painting must have passed through many owners. How could we find the real owner that easily?


    Anyway, we didnt have any other methods. Even if we were facing a great task, for the murder case, we could only use everything at our disposal.


    Not half an hourter, someone I knew arrived. This man also earned his living in the antiques business. He was called Sun Long, alias Brother Long, the Underworld businessman.


    Referring to him as Underworld didnt mean that he mingled with gangsters or the likes. It was because he collected antiques with unclear origins, and most of them were goods theyd dug up from tombs!


    As we were living in a society ruled byw, no antique businessman wanted to step on that minefield. But, Sun Long was different. Rumors said that he had someone protecting him. In case he was arrested, it wasnt different from having free meals and amodation for a few days.


    As soon as I saw him, I had a headache


    One, this man was really tough to deal with, and two, that ancient painting probably came from underground.


    Disturbing the deceaseds peaceful rest was already rude. Remember the Blue Heads event? It almost took thezybones away.


    Sun Long and I could chat, but it didnt mean that hed nicely tell me the origins of the painting.


    As soon as Brother Long saw me, heughed heartily, walking forward. Oh hey, is that the little boss of the Zhangs? What a coincidence!


    I smiled back at him. Brother Long, long time no see! How are you doing?


    Brother Long waved his hand. Dont mention it. I havent had a good deal these days. Boss Zhang, I heard that youve recently made easy money. If we get a chance, we should cooperate.


    I smiled and nodded. No problem. How about we sit and have tea?


    Brother Long waved his hand dismissively, stooping his head. I dont have time for tea, do I? I just received a call from the Criminal Police Department, asking me toe to this teahouse. Perhaps those motherf*ckers have their eyes due to some deals Ive made recently.


    And then, Yin Xinyue faked a cough, calling, Brother Long, it wasnt that long ago, yet youve forgotten about me already?


    Hearing Yin Xinyue, Brother Long looked at her in confusion. After observing her for a moment, he finally got it. Ah, youre the beauty that bought the ancient paintingst time? Oh well, you got a better deal with Boss Zhang here?


    Yin Xinyue rolled her eyes at Brother Long. Brother Long had caused her bestie to die, and he didnt seem at all embarrassed. Brother Long, its us who asked the Criminal Police Department to contact you. We have some questions we want to ask you!


    The good atmosphere instantly turned awkward.


    Brother Long was bewildered for a while. Then, he sneered and said to Yin Xinyue, who was sitting opposite him, Oh well, it seems like I stepped on a nail today. Boss Zhang, what game are you ying?


    I told him, None. I just want to ask you one thing. Where does that ancient paintinge from?


    I didnt want to provoke Brother Long. However, since it had alreadye to this, I didnt need to be too careful. I was a man and I couldnt just stand and watch the girl who liked me being insulted.


    Brother Long burst outughing. Tch tch, you know that I like good manners, right? I dont want to be forced. You want to know the ancient paintings origins? Ill tell you. I collected it from a rural countryside. But, which countryside? Im so sorry, my memory is really bad. Ive forgotten where already.


    You Yin Xinyue was angry, gritting her teeth. I feel like you want to go to jail.


    I was a little embarrassed. How could Yin Xinyue threaten Brother Long in this critical moment?


    Indeed, Brother Longughed haughtily. Good, Im waiting to go to jail! Boss Zhang, your little girlfriend here is too innocent. Do you have anything else you want to say? If not, I gotta go now.


    Then, Brother Long turned around, about to leave.


    Yin Xinyue stopped him with one arm. Stop, if you dont make everything clear today, you cant leave.


    All right! Brother Long smiled maliciously. Little beauty, I can see that your body is really nice. Well, stay with me one night and Ill tell you. How does that sound?

 Chapter 59: Riddles, One After Another

    Chapter 59: Riddles, One After Another


    I was enraged. This mans mouth was too dirty.


    Angrily, I pped the table, shooting up. Brother Long, dont cross the line!


    Brother Long was also irritated. He picked up the tea cup, smashing it on the ground forcefully. When I started my business, you were still wearing diapers. Dont you believe that I have the power to ruin your business in the antique street?


    I sneered, I do. Of course, I believe that you do. Anyway, you just told me that your shop hasnt had any business for quite a long time, right? I happen to have many otherworldly items in my hand. Ghost sickle, departed spirit armor, or even a killing noose. Are you interested in them? If these things suddenly fall into your hands, youll be in grave trouble


    Brother Long rolled his eyes. Of course, he knew my business, and he knew what I could do.


    Hearing me, Brother Long immediately felt scared.


    He gritted his teeth, rolling his eyes at me indignantly. Good, youre bold! For a girl, youre turning your back on me. Just wait and see.


    Brother Long scolded me, sshing his saliva everywhere. I calmly took Yin Xinyues hand and sat down, ignoring his foul words. The more he scolded us, the clearer his anxiousness was. It wouldnt be long before hed tell me the origins of the painting.


    Indeed, after scoffing and cursing us, Brother Long lost his wrath. He rolled his eyes at us, telling us to find Big ck in Dongxi Vige. Then, he left.


    I exhaled in relief. In the end, we got it.


    After Brother Long had left, Li Yuntian arrived at the teahouse. As soon as he arrived, he asked me about Brother Long.


    I told him that hed just left.


    Seeing the broken teacup, Li Yuntian could guess what had happened. Begrudgingly, he forced a smile. Sun Longs always like that. He thinks he can rely on his rtionship with the Bureau Chief, and he always shows off like that. Dont worry, Ill report this to the Bureau Chief and hell summon Sun Long.


    Then, Li Yuntian took out his phone to make a call.


    I hurriedly waved at him. No need, he already told us.


    Already? Li Yuntian wore a stunned expression as he stared at us. No kidding!


    I nodded. No kidding. Now, you can go and investigate a person called Big ck in Dongxi Vige. Hes the original owner.


    Li Yuntianughed. No need to investigate. I know that man. He sneakily dug up the ancestral tomb of the Zhous. The Zhous found him and he was beaten up. If we hadnt gotten there on time, the Zhous wouldve castrated him. So, Big ck went underground for his old work again?


    Working underground meant raiding an ancient tomb.


    It seemed that Li Yuntian had connections with many people in this business, and he knew a lot of ng.


    I said, Im not sure. We should go and find that Big ck first!


    Li Yuntian drove us directly to the outskirts of the city, reaching a packed, low-cost rental housing area near a factory. He headed to a room and knocked on the door.


    However, there was no reply. Li Yuntian was enraged. Come on,e out here! I know youre in there.


    Then, the door opened a small slit. A dark-skinned, shifty-eyed man walked out, smiling mischievously. Oh yeah, my great benefactor. Come in,e in. Which wind blows you to my humble house?


    Li Yuntians face darkened. Stop smiling, I have something that I need to ask you. The ancient painting you sold to Brother Long, the one with the executioner, where did you get it?


    The dark-skinned man was frightened. However, he pretended to be calm as he said, What what are you talking about? Officer Li, I dont understand. I have to go to work at the steel factory. Its almost time. I need to go.


    Dont you recognize the seriousness of this? Li Yuntian smiled coldly. Brother Long has already named you. If you dont cooperate, then theres no less than ten years jail time waiting.


    When the name Brother Long was mentioned, the dark-skinned man copsed. He sighed reluctantly. That motherf*cker, I knew he had a loose mouth. Hed say anything. Anyway, Officer Li, this time, I promise that I didnt do anything illegal. At most, I just resold cultural relics! Someone asked me to sell the ancient painting to Brother Long.


    Li Yuntian nodded. Who asked you?


    Wang Leng from Dongcheng [1], said the dark-skinned man. Officer Li, can this be considered as redemption for my sins? Wang Leng from Dongcheng did the raid. I heard that he stole that painting from a tomb


    Redeeming your faults? You clearly knew that the painting was evil, yet you dared to sell it. You tell me, are you looking for death?


    Hearing what Li Yuntian was saying, the dark-skinned man recognized that hed just slipped up. He was scared, his face ashen.


    All right, thats it for now. For the time being, I wont hold you ountable. But, you have to stay here. Be honest and wait for the Criminal Police Department to contact you. If you run away, you know whatll happen.


    Then, Li Yuntian left with us.


    On the way out of the residential area, I had a headache. I didnt expect that the ancient painting was actually dug up from some tomb. No wonder it had such thick resentful energy.


    So, since Li Mazi and I had survivedst night, we were already lucky! As I thought about the events fromst night, I was terrified.


    Li Yuntian had known Wang Leng from Dongcheng. It seemed that he was familiar with the local snakes.


    The current situation was partially determined by the environment of our city. A long time ago, this ce was the battlefield for militarymanders. It wasnt a center of culture or economy, but it had good luck.


    Also, since it had excellent luck, many members of the royal family had decided to have their bodies buried here.


    However, Id heard that there werent any tomb raiders or thieves here before. Most of the time, when people renovated their old houses, they coincidently dug up a few precious bronze items.


    Then, after theyd tasted the sweet life, some people decided tobor once and enjoy the fruits for the rest of their life. Theyd begin to steal things from ancient tombs. As time went by, they settled deeper in the business. Most of the thieves used to be nice farmers in the past.


    Wang Leng of Dongcheng was one of them.


    His ce was much better than the dark-skinned mans. It was in a beautiful apartment building where hed bought three apartments; one for him, and two others to lease.


    However, the doors to his house were closed. We asked his tenants, and they also said that they hadnt seen him for several days. Wang Leng hadnt even gone around to collect the rent.


    Li Yuntians face grimaced. I asked him, Whats going on?


    Li Yuntian answered, Its not normal. Because Wang Leng is famous for his stingy character, when the rent is due, he bes the king of Hell. Its impossible for him to miss a collection deadline.


    Listening to Li Yuntian, my heart dropped. His meaning was clear. It was possible that Wang Leng had run away


    I took a deep breath. It seemed like the situation was gradually growing moreplicated. I hurriedly asked Li Yuntian, What should we do now? If we cant find the man, we dont know the origins, and we cant solve the case.


    Li Yuntian said, Go, well get inside and see. Perhaps well find a clue.


    Then, Li Yuntian went to see the propertys owner, showing his police card and asking for him to open the apartment.


    Although Wang Leng stayed here alone, his apartment was really clean. The antiques and calligraphy paintings were arranged neatly on the shelves. The antique furniture here was made from sandalwood, giving the room a sense of culture. If we didnt know any better, wed think that this room belonged to an old schr.


    I scanned the apartment.


    There was nothing strange in the living room. The only thing that caught my attention was arge brazier.


    These days, the weather was scorchingly hot. Why would he keep a burning brazier in his living room? I was sure that it wasnt to warm the ce.


    1. The eastern part of the city.

 Chapter 60: Night Watch

    Chapter 60: Night Watch


    I instantly became alert and studied the brazier for a long time.


    Li Yuntian also stared at the big brazier. He took a deep breath, then said, Did he use the same method of burning coals in that brazier to find the executioners footprints?


    I immediately squatted down in the hopes of seeing some footprints. However, I found nothing.


    I was a little confused. What had Wang Leng wanted to do?


    Being curious, I used a pair of steel pliers to open the brazier. I then found that the things burning inside didnt look like chalk coals.


    This was because coal would turn ash-white after it was burned. However, the residue in the brazier was ck. I used the pliers to touch it. It felt really soft.


    With a serious face, I asked Li Yuntian, Officer Li, if someone were burned to death, and the skin hadnt been burned thoroughly, what would the residue look like?


    Hearing my question, Li Yuntian couldnt help but shiver. Mister Zhang, what do you mean?


    I didnt answer and instead used the pliers to grab a ck thing inside the brazier, slowly and carefully taking it out of the mes. You see this ck residue? Dont you think it looks like human skin?


    Li Yuntian was frightened. He reached over and didnt care if he could get burned. He pinched a small amount of the residue between two fingers, bringing it to his nose to smell. He was sweating as he said, Its skin, but it could be animal skin.


    Right. I nodded. But, why would Wang Leng want to burn skin? In such hot weather, only an idiot would burn such a big brazier inside the house.


    It seemed that Yin Xinyue suddenly thought of something. I got it. Wang Leng was afraid of being recognized, so he wanted to destroy his face!


    I burst outughing. Nice one. But, even if he wanted to destroy his appearance, he didnt need to peel off his facial skin and burn it. Moreover, in this world, nobody would treat themselves in such a cruel way. I think under harsh conditions they might do that though. For example, if the executioner forced them.


    The executioner came here too? As soon as I mentioned the executioner, Yin Xinyue and Li Yuntians expressions changed.


    However, for the time being, it was the most reasonable exnation.


    I thought for quite a long time and came up with the conclusion that if Wang Leng wasnt dead, he woulde back here. Since he still needed to eat, it was impossible that hed abandon this room, which was full of valuable antiques. After careful consideration, I decided to stay here tonight, hugging the tree and waiting for the rabbit.


    Li Yuntian, of course, offered to stay with me. I agreed with him. Yin Xinyue was a girl who liked to join in the fun, so she naturally wanted to be with us too.


    We went out to buy some food and fill our stomachs. Then, we returned and waited inside Wang Lengs apartment. As it was still early, Wang Leng would likely return home around midnight, when no one would see him. As I had nothing to do, I started to study Wang Lengs antiques.


    Wang Leng was a businessman in the antique business with considerable assets. The antiques he stored here aged from the Warring States, all the way to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Although some of them were counterfeits, there were many genuine items with high artistic values.


    He hadnt sold them, so I guessed those came from illegal sources...


    No matter what, there werent many buyers able to digest those antiques. He would have to sell them one by one.


    I asked Li Yuntian how the Police Bureau was going to deal with all these illegal antiques.


    Li Yuntian shook his head, forcing a smile. We dont have many choices. In China, thew on this aspect hasnt beenpleted yet. These merchants would likely take advantage of the gaps in thew. If the police cant find any evidence saying that these antiques are from tombs underground, we cant do anything to Wang Leng.


    I sighed, thinking that China had so many precious items, but they were likely being destroyed by those scumbags!


    The sky was growing darker. Perhaps it was all in my head, but I started to feel that this room was gradually bing darker and more sinister. Li Yuntian and Yin Xinyue apparently felt the same as their faces didnt look good, either. They didnt dare to go around the room as they were afraid that the antiques could be otherworldly items.


    Still, I thought this possibility wasnt big as otherworldly items were extremely rare. Some antique merchants never encountered such items during their whole career. I had more chances than them because I was an otherworldly merchant, so I often ran into otherworldly items.


    I brought the two to the bedroom. We would observe the living room from here. I wondered if Wang Leng woulde home tonight or not. If he didnt, perhaps wed have to stay here for a long time.


    We must find the origins of that ancient painting. Otherwise, even if my grandfather was still alive, we wouldnt be able to solve the issue rted to the evil immortal inside the painting.


    As time ticked by, inside the dark and heavy atmosphere of the room, we felt that a day was long as an entire year. Around 9 p.m the neighborhood grewpletely quiet and devoid of street lights.


    We didnt turn on the lights inside the apartment since we were afraid it would alert Wang Leng. Using the cold, dreary moonlight, I could barely distinguish Li Yuntian and Yin Xinyues shadows.


    I was worried about what I should do if I spotted another shadow in this room, or if Li Yuntian and Yin Xinyue suddenly smiled at me with a twisted expression on their faces. Everything was unknown.


    The more I thought about it, the more frightened I grew. I was actually scaring myself!


    Time ticked by fast. 1 a.m, 2 a.m


    Around 4 or 5 a.m, in the early hours of the morning, the living room was dead silent. There were no sounds, not even the tiniest one.


    This tranquil atmosphere made my nervousness increase. Id been feeling that something was strange, but I couldnt point out what it was.


    It wasnt until people started leaving for work that the strange feeling in my heart slowly dissipated.


    Reluctantly, I waved at the other two. We stayed up the whole night, and Wang Leng still didnte home.


    Hearing my voice, Li Yuntian and Yin Xinyue exhaled. It seemed that they hadnt expected Wang Leng toe home since we didnt know what form he would return with.


    Unfortunately, since he didnte back yesterday, tonight, wed have to wait for him again. I brought the two downstairs to have breakfast. While eating, Li Yuntian received a call. When he hung up, his expression changed.


    Looking at his countenance, I knew that something bad had happened. Indeed, after questioning him, Li Yuntian told me that the ancient painting had gone missing


    Hearing him, my heart sank. When did this happen?


    Li Yuntian shook his head. It was sometimest night. This morning, when the officer on duty did a regr check, he found that the ancient painting had disappeared.


    I cursed under my breath, then asked Li Yuntian to bring me back to the murder scene.


    Perhaps it was Wang Lengs trick to make us stay at his home while he went to steal the ancient painting.


    When we arrived at the crime scene, we saw policemen watching the door. Seeing Li Yuntian, they came to report the situation to him.


    Everything was normal yesterday. No one came to the third floor. But, that painting mysteriously disappeared


    I immediately asked, Are you sure that no one came herest night? And, during your shift, did you see anything strange? You must tell me any details you remember.


    The officer confirmed, once again, that everything was normal.


    I took a deep breath. Open the door, I want to check!


    The officer opened the door and I could tell the lock was untouched. Unless one had the key, he wouldnt be able to enter the apartment from the main door.


    Everything looked normal inside. We didnt see any footprints or anything strange. However, the painting on the wall had disappeared.


    Carefully, I walked to the ce where the painting used to hang and checked. I didnt find any clues.


    Li Yuntian whispered into my ear, Maybe thedead stole that ancient painting?


    I wasnt sure. So, we had to go to the morgue to see if the corpse was still there.


    Li Yuntian then brought us to the mortuary. The ce was still cold and dark. Drawing the locker out, we found nothing strange on the corpse.


    I inhaled deeply.Damn, what is going on?

 Chapter 61: The Black Cats Cry

    Chapter 61: The ck Cat''s Cry


    Now, all the people involved in this case were either dead or running away. Even the only clue, the ancient painting, was missing. It was the toughest and the most clueless case Id ever encountered!


    At this moment, I felt overwhelmed and unmindful since the situation had gone beyond my imagination.


    If I didnt solve the situation surrounding the immortal in the painting soon, more people would be harmed. Also, it was likely that the people on my side could get hurt, too.


    The only clue we had now was to track down Wang Leng. But, Wang Leng had disappeared right at the critical moment. I had to ask Li Yuntian to mobilize his policemen to thoroughly search for his whereabouts. At the same time, we must wait for him at his apartment.


    However, Li Yuntian told me that he couldnt wait with me because he needed to work. It was impossible for him to run around with us the whole day.


    Besides, other than boosting my courage, hispany wasnt that useful anyway. That was why I let him go to work. I would handle Wang Lengs ce myself.


    Before parting, Li Yuntian handed me a police stick, telling me that I might need to use it. The people working underground always had violent tendencies. If that man resisted, the one-million-volt discharge from the police stick was enough to subdue him.


    I nodded and smiled. However, I felt that I wouldnt have a chance to use this tool. I ended up giving it to Yin Xinyue so she could defend herself.


    Afterward, we returned to Wang Lengs apartment.


    Actually, on the way there, I asked Yin Xinyue several times to go home. No matter what, she was a girl. It wouldnt be nice for her to follow me and take risks days and nights.


    However, Yin Xinyue wanted to stick with me because she was worried about me. In case we needed help, two people could take care of each other better.


    I knew how stubborn she was. If I shooed her away, she would likely cry and scream. Thus, I could only let her do what she wanted.


    Wed been waiting at Wang Lengs until it was night without going out.


    It was good that there was wifi here. Yin Xinyue could search the web to read something. It saved her from being anxious, which would trouble her from taking action in case of dangerter.


    Just like yesterday, around 9 p.m, everything went quiet. It seemed that everybody was now sleeping. There were no streetlights, and the only source of light was from Yin Xinyues mobile phone. It shone on her calm face, which also soothed my heart a little bit.


    All of a sudden, the mournful crying from a stray cat arose outside, making me irritated. I thought about going out and shooing it away. However, considering the situation, I decided to stay inside.


    What if it was Wang Leng, trying to trick us?


    Thinking about this possibility, I asked Yin Xinyue to turn off her phone and listened attentively to themotion outside.


    The stray cat screamed unceasingly with long and high-pitched cries. Around half an hourter, the crying suddenly ceased.


    One secondter, the door burst open. A ck shadow jumped into the room from outside, bouncing around and knocking over many items.


    I was so scared that sweat was streaming down my face. What happened to that stray cat? How could it break the door? Its crying was actually like a childs.


    Yin Xinyue was terrified, her face pale. She took out the police stick.


    The stray cat jumped around the room as if it were fighting against an invisible person. However, there was no other person present.


    My nerves were tense. People said that cats were sensitive animals as they could see things that human eyes couldnt. What did this cat see?


    As I was hesitating over whether or not I should shoo the stray cat away, it suddenly quieted down. The cats blue eyes gazed in our direction.


    My anxious heart jumped. I could confirm that this look wasnt from an animal since it was filled with so many emotions. They were full of fear and even anger as if the cat was looking at its enemy!


    In this moment, I recognized the danger. Immediately, I pulled Yin Xinyue behind me. At the same time, I picked up a china vase, lifting it like I would throw it to threaten the cat.


    However, the cat didnt run. It stood still, baring its teeth while gazing at me. The cats eyes sparkled with disdain.


    I was now more certain than ever that it wasnt the look of an animal It was a human look


    At the moment my heart was flooded with fear, the stray cat shot up as if it was about to attack me. I took a deep breath. With no hesitation, I hurled the china vase.


    The vase urately hit the spot where the cat had just been sitting. However, the cat was faster and more agile. It bolted up from the ground before falling into the burning brazier.


    Shortly after, a burning smell filled the air. The brazier fumed with big clusters of fire, as if it had just been doused with gasoline.


    The stray cat screamed painfully. Its voice was hoarse as it struggled inside the mes. However, the vehement mes were consuming it, and shortly after, it stopped crying or moving.


    It was burned to death.


    I gawked, my jaw dropping in shock. I was confused. I didnt know why the cat wanted to kill itself by jumping into the burning brazier.


    While I was staring nkly at the brazier, someone pulled on my shirt. I turned out immediately to see that it was Yin Xinyue.


    Shivering, Yin Xinyue pointed at the door, and I instantly nced over. I was so scared out of my wits that I had to take a deep breath.


    A person was lying t at the entrance, lifting their head to look at us. Seeing the white eyes reflecting the mes, I felt fearful.


    I took a deep breath, trying to sound calm as I asked, Who are you?


    I could confirm that this person wasnt Wang Leng because she looked thin with disheveled hair. Moreover, she looked like a teenager girl.


    She sighed, her eyes wandering around the room. Then, slowly, she crawled back outside.


    I was bewildered. But, since I knew that she must know something, I didnt hesitate to follow her with the police stick in my hand. Freeze, were with the police! Stop moving, or else, dont me us for being rude!


    The teenage girl then stopped, struggling to grab a nearby chair to sit up. Who are you? Why are you staying in Uncle Wangs house?


    I repeated, Who are you? Itste at night. Why are you intruding into someones house?


    The teenager sighed, Im here to find my children. All of my children were burned to death by that brazier


    What? Yin Xinyue shrieked. Her body suddenly went soft and she almost copsed, crouching on the ground.


    I hurried to support Yin Xinyue, asking the teenager, You said children. You mean those stray cats?


    No! the girl answered angrily. They werent stray cats. They were living beings withplicated thoughts, and with more intelligence than a human!


    Yin Xinyue exhaled in relief. Shed thought that the teenager meant real babies.


    So, the ck residue in the brazier are the remains of the cats? I asked.


    The teenager nodded. Right.


    Why did your children jump into the brazier? I asked. You have problems walking? You cant walk?


    The teenager stooped her head, her face gloomy. I cant walk. And, why did my children all jump into the brazier? They were possessed by foul things. This apartment is full of foul things.


    I was frightened as I stared at the teenager. Her revtion shocked me.


    She was just a teenager, so how could she be bold enough to visit a haunted house at midnight alone like this?


    I carefully walked toward her, squatting down to talk to her. Why do you say theres something foul in this apartment?


    "Because, someone died here, said the girl.


    Someone died? How do you know that?


    I saw it, the girl answered. A man holding a machete beheaded Uncle Wang, then threw it into the brazier.


    Oh? Listening to the girl, my heart flickered. Did you witness it? Do you know what the man holding the machete looks like?


    I know, the girl said contentedly. But, Im not going to tell you.


    "Why?"


    Because, that uncle is a policeman. The girl smiled. He said that he just punished a bad guy, so I shouldnt tell anybody.


    A policeman! I was so scared. Did you see him?


    Yes! The teenage girl nodded. That uncle said that Uncle Wang stole peoples things, so he had to kill Uncle Wang. The body was buried in the woods near the apartment.


    "You also saw that?


    No, my children told me, the girl said proudly. My children can see many things. They told me that Uncle Wang hadnt left yet. Hes still in this apartment.


    The moment I wanted to ask more, loud footsteps arose from underneath the floor. A middle-aged woman rushed over. Seeing the girl, she pped her twice. You bold kid, you dont sleep and wander around at midnight!


    Then, she looked at us with embarrassment. My apologies, my kid cant walk and her head isnt good. She just babbles all day. Please forgive her


    Then, the middle-aged woman didnt give us a chance to talk. She hurriedly scooped the girl up and descended the stairs.


    The girl smiled at us over the middle-aged womans shoulder. Her smile was extremely bizarre, making my scalp numb and sending shivers down my spine.


    She opened her mouth as if she was talking to us. However, she didnt make a sound.


    I turned to check on Yin Xinyue. She was so scared that all color had left her face. She clutched my shirt, shakily asking, Brother Zhang, do you also feel that the little girl is strange?


    I took a deep breath. Did you recognize what she mouthed as she left?


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. It seemed like she mouthed something, but I dont know what it was.

 Chapter 62: The Fearful Truth

    Chapter 62: The Fearful Truth


    I mimicked the teenagers mouthing as I said to Yin Xinyue, Officer Li.


    Yin Xinyue was bewildered and stared at me. Officer Li what do you mean?


    I inhaled deeply and pulled Yin Xinyue into the bedroom. She meant, Officer Li killed Wang Leng, didnt she?


    Yin Xinyue exhaled roughly beforeughing. Are you kidding? If Officer Li were the murderer, why would he put so much effort into a case like this?


    Do you think the little girl was just talking nonsense then? I asked her.


    Yin Xinyue was surprised, looking at me and pondering for a long time.


    "Whats Officer Lisst name? Its Li. Whats Crown Prince Yidesst name? Also Li. What if, Officer Li is a descendant of Crown Prince Yide, and since Wang Leng raided Officer Lis ancestors tomb, Officer Li wanted to kill him to take revenge? I asked.


    Yin Xinyue said nothing, she just looked at me, worry evident in her expression.


    Officer Li might not have any evidence of Wang Leng raiding the tomb. However, even if he did, Wang Leng wouldnt be in jail for more than several years. So, Officer Li killed him to stop him from disclosing things. And, at the same time, he set the scene as if Wang Leng had run away from his crime. No one would ever know the truth


    But, he didnt think that even arge is difficult to escape from. Perhaps Wang Lengs resentful soul is still waiting for us to discover the truth. Or, that teenage girl and her cats really do have a psychic ability, and they witnessed Officer Lis horrible crime.


    I patiently analyzed the situation, using all kinds of clues to prove that Officer Li was the murderer.


    Yin Xinyues jaw dropped in shock when she heard my conclusion. She couldnt pull herself together for quite a long time.


    So, the murderous painting is fake. Officer Li just wanted to get Wang Leng involved to fabricate the story of him running away from the crime? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I shook my head. Im not sure about this because that ancient painting really is an otherworldly item. If Officer Li is the one standing behind all of this, I can only say that hes a cunning and malicious person with a great criminal mind. You can imagine how much harm he could do to this country if he got power in his hands.


    Would he kill us? Yin Xinyue was terrified. No matter what, we know so many things. If we know the real cause of Wang Lengs death, with his working style, would he let us run free?


    I forced a smile. Thats also what Im worried about. How about this? Wang Leng killed your bestie and ran away. Officer Li isnt involved in this.


    With my sincere and earnest words, I looked at Yin Xinyue. The two of us shouldnt get involved in this any further. If we did, our lives would be in danger. To us, there wasnt anything good that coulde out of all of this.


    I wasnt a heroic character with a sense of justice. I just wanted to live a low-key life. I didnt want to get involved in such a mess.


    Yin Xinyue looked at me in surprise. You just want to stand by and see that worm nibbling and harming the society?


    I shrugged. Youre too nave. I cant control this sort of thing, and neither can you. In the end, well just be courting trouble to ourselves.


    Yin Xinyue was silent for quite a long time. Eventually, she nodded. Good, Ill listen to you.


    Now that wed decided what to do, I exhaled in relief.


    Early the next morning, I called Officer Li and told him that Wang Leng had probably fled. And, at the same time, the resentment from that ancient painting had seemed to vanish. It wouldnt affect the owner anymore. So, I thought that this case could be closed. I had no other options.


    Officer Li persistently asked me to investigate further, and that the police couldnt just conclude the case like that. However, I denied him. I knew that he just wanted me to stay to make his cover firmer.


    Eventually, Officer Li couldnt persuade me, so he had to agree with my conclusion.


    The case was closed shortly afterward. Wang Leng had to bear all crimes. The result was exactly what I had expected. Officer Li even invited me out for dinner to thank me. He even gave me the murderous ancient painting.


    Although I didnt want it, to show that I didnt have any other idea about the case, I frankly received the painting.


    However, several nightster, I couldnt sleep well. As soon as I closed my eyes, I saw Wang Leng. Wang Leng was beheaded by a sturdy executioner. Then, his head was thrown into the brazier to be burned. His head smiled at me. Eventually, the mes burned so fiercely that his eyeballs popped and his skull exploded, sshing his brain onto my face.


    Every night, I had the same nightmare and woke up covered in sweat. Deep in my heart, I med myself. I knew that it was a sinister case, but Id let it go.


    I thought that time would help me forget this. However, several dayster, bad things happened


    At that night, I had plenty of free time and was thinking about finding a new owner for the ancient painting. All of a sudden, Yin Xinyue called me.


    She was panting and screaming for help. I hurriedly asked her what had happened. Yin Xinyue told me that a headless executioner was running after her inside the woods. I muste to rescue her fast. She couldnt run anymore.


    After listening to her, I was stunned. A headless executioner? What headless executioner? The executioner from the ancient painting?


    I took a deep breath, then hurried to unfold the ancient painting. Looking at it, I was scared to see the red clothes of the executioner had faded away, and some curved lines were also paler. It felt like he was hiding in the crowd.


    Not good! I bolted up. Taking the ancient painting, I got in the car and hastily drove toward the woods.


    Near our ce there was only one forest, which was the one behind Wang Lengs apartment building.


    I suddenly recalled what the disabled girl had told me. After Officer Li had killed Wang Leng, hed burned his head in the brazier and buried his body in the woods.


    Yin Xinyue mentioned the headless executioner. Would it be Wang Lengs corpse? It waste at night, so why had Yin Xinyuee to such a remote ce? Perhaps she wasnt pleased with her friend dying so unjustly. That was why shede here to find Wang Lengs corpse to bring Officer Li to justice.


    Along the way, I stopped by Li Mazis house to storm in and grab him. Li Mazi was having dinner with his son. Seeing me, he was surprised. What are you doing?


    As I pulled him out the door, he unhappily protested by clutching the doorframe. When I told him that Yin Xinyues life was in danger, Li Mazi immediately rxed his grip.


    I stomped on the elerator, crossing many red lights. Eventually, we reached the woods.


    Turning off the cars engine, I carefully listened to themotion around. However, except for the crazy wind through the trees, I was afraid I couldnt hear if someone even one hundred meters away was calling for help.


    There was nobody inside the woods. We couldnt see a speck of light. Even the moonlight couldnt pierce through the thickyer of leaves. Deep inside, it was a vast mass of darkness.


    Li Mazi and I grabbed a shlight, directly heading to the center of the woods. The center of a forest was always a good ce to kill someone and bury the corpse.


    My head couldnt help but think about many things. At the thought of Yin Xinyue being full of fear, my tears couldnt help but roll down my cheeks.


    No matter what, she was just an ordinary secretary in a city.


    How difficult it would be to find Yin Xinyue in this thick and vast forest? However, while couldnt find Yin Xinyue, we could find the headless executioner


    Since the headless executioner belonged to the otherworldly item ss, I would use the method of finding otherworldly items to find him!


    My mind cleared, I called Li Mazi over and captured a frog. I broke three out of its four legs, leaving only one front leg.


    At first, the frog painfully crawled around. Blood from its legs oozed out, streaming on the ground. Slowly, the frogs blood created a circle on the ground.


    Shortly after, it began to struggle out of the circle, crawling in a specific direction.


    I grabbed the frog in my hand, not bothering to care about its dirty skin. Following the direction it had been heading in, I crazily dashed forward!


    Every so often, I would use the frog to check the direction. After changing directions several times, I finally got a clue.


    I saw Yin Xinyues ne on a tree branch. She mustve left it to show us the way.


    Touching the ne, I found that it was still warm. It meant she would be around this area.


    But, why was this ce was dead silent? Yin Xinyue couldve encountered something really bad!


    I immediately reminded Li Mazi, asking him to watch out since something was strange here.


    Li Mazi and I stood back to back, searching our surroundings.


    A gust of wind rushed toward us, and we both heard a rattling noise above our heads. It wasnt the collision of tree branches. Startled, I lifted my head to watch.


    A shiny ghost sword sparkled in the moonlight as a person wearing red clothes jumped off the tree!

 Chapter 63: The Primary Heart

    Chapter 63: The Primary Heart


    I was terrified. Immediately, I turned around and kicked Li Mazi, pushing him aside.


    That ghostly machete firmly cut my thigh!


    I was hurt and took a deep breath while retreating in fear.


    The figure was dressed in a loose red executioner uniform from ancient times. There was no head above his neck. With a sturdy physique, he held the hefty machete and slowly approached me.


    Did this headless executionere out from the ancient painting? This whole situation was frightening.


    I drew the imperial whip from my back,shing the headless executioner. Although the headless executioner didnt have eyes, he seemed to be able to see every move of mine and easily dodged my attack.


    Then, he dashed towards me while drawing the ghostly machete, aiming at my head.His strength and speed were beyond that of an ordinary human. My fear peaked in just the blink of an eye because I couldnt retreat any further and I had only a small whip. However, it seemed like the whip didnt work on him.


    The ghostly machete reflected the moonlight, blinding me. This time, I thought I was about to be beheaded.


    Soon enough, Li Mazi finally got a hold of himself. He screamed and hugged the headless executioner from behind, pressing the executioner the under his body. Then, without hesitation, he swung his fist.


    Li Mazi could deal with living people, but he hadnt experienced fighting against immortals in the painting before.


    The headless executioner soon hurled him aside.


    However, Li Mazi had seized a precious amount of time for me. The imperial whip agilely wrapped around the executioners leg, and I pulled forcefully. The executioner was tugged off bnce, then stumbled before falling to the ground with a thud.


    Again, I jumped on him, grabbing his arm and biting him!


    The strength of my bite had been cultivating since I was breastfed as a baby! I felt that without the clothes, I could even bite his flesh off!


    However, I didn''t expect that the headless executioner would shriek in pain. He sounded familiar. However, I didnt have any time to think. I picked up the machete hed dropped on the ground, aiming at his arm, and stabbing.


    The machete wasnt designed to stab, so it wasnt sufficient to cut off his arm. However, it still managed to make a cut on it. That man rolled around, screaming. I sat next to Li Mazi, holding the machete and panting.


    Li Mazi looked at me and said in surprise, Little Brother Zhang, dont you think his voice sounds familiar?


    I scolded, Familiar your sister! Hurry and rescue Yin Xinyue. Im staying to stop this thing.


    Li Mazi looked at my bleeding thigh, his expression concerned. But, your wound


    It was okay until he reminded me, but as soon as he said that, I felt the agony from the wound piercing my heart. Damn that Li Mazi, didnt he have anything nice to say?


    I scolded, You dont need to worry. Then, I pushed him aside, gritted my teeth, and grabbed a tree trunk to steady myself. I needed to deal with this headless executioner first.


    However, before I could move, a head slowly emerged from the executioners severed neck.


    This strange development scared me so much I got cramps. But, when I saw the others face, I gawked in shock.


    The head belonged to Li Yuntian.


    It was really Li Yuntian! He gasped in pain, mumbling, Dont Dont hit Its me!


    Li Mazi screamed, I told you. He sounds familiar!


    I angrily scoffed, Its you? Officer Li?


    Li Yuntians body shook hard. Immediately, he pretended to know nothing. Oh, why am I here? A ghost possessed me?


    I continued to sneer. Since things hade to this, did pretending even mean anything?


    I asked directly, Wheres Yin Xinyue? Where did you hide her?


    Li Yuntian said, What, Yin Xinyue? I dont know.


    Dont pretend, I said curtly. Officer Li, you killed Wang Leng, didnt you? Do you want to kill Yin Xinyue to silence her since she knows about the crime youmitted?


    Li Mazi gawked, his jaw dropping in shock. Then, he turned to look at Li Yuntian, his expression perplexed.


    Li Yuntian was surprised. Then, he managed to restrain his pain and sit up. Since you all already know, Im going to tell you the truth! I didnt kill Wang Leng. Its the evil spirit in the ancient painting. And this time, that evil spirit possessed my body again


    I smiled reluctantly. Are you stupid? Did you think Id buy your excuses? Wheres Yin Xinyue? Tell me now!


    Without waiting for Li Yuntian to open his mouth, someone feebly groaned above our heads.


    Surprised, I looked up and used the shlight to search the shadows.


    I then saw Yin Xinyue. She was tied to a big tree, a ragged cloth stuffed into her mouth. She was looking at us with a pained expression.


    That bastard!I cursed before trying to climb the tree to untie Yin Xinyue. However, because of the wound on my thigh, I couldnt move easily. Thus, Li Mazi had to climb up.


    I was worried that Li Yuntian would ambush us out of the blue, so I vigntly watched him.


    Li Yuntian knew that the situation had reached a point where he couldnt do anything else. He didnt run away either as he understood that even if he ran away, we could still catch him because we outnumbered him.


    After Yin Xinyue was rescued and down to the ground, her face paled. She said through her gritted teeth, Ill tell you why Li Yuntian wanted to kill Wang Leng! Li Yuntian happened to know about an ancient tomb which contained a Tang Dynastys Crown Prince underneath his house. Of course, the goods inside were priceless. Thus, he let Wang Leng dig up the tomb and steal the things inside. Ha! He really dug up his ancestors tomb with another guy! Li Yuntian, youre such a good cop!


    Hearing Yin Xinyues words, Li Yuntians face paled before turning purple. He grimaced.


    Li Mazi and I were also shocked. Even though we knew that Li Yuntian wasnt a good guy, we never thought that hed dig up his ancestors tomb.


    Yin Xinyue continued, Then, when they divided their stolen goods, Li Yuntian was greedy and wanted Wang Lengs share. Thats when he first thought of killing his partner. My besties death was just an unlucky event. Shed bought an otherworldly item, and coincidently, it held a grudge against her ancestor! When the bloody murder took ce, Li Yuntian decided to me everything on the ancient painting


    I took a deep breath.


    From Li Yuntians countenance, I knew that Yin Xinyue told the truth.


    Li Yuntian coldly smiled. Good, good. You may know the truth, but do you have any evidence? How can you use me without any evidence? Now, Im going to give you a chance. Everything will end here, and Ill give you a million renminbi to keep your mouths shut.


    Li Mazi said with integrity, Do you think we need money? We dont buy your story! Hmph! You want to use money to bribe us? Thats useless unless its one million and a half!


    Li Yuntian gritted his teeth, then eventually nodded. Good, I agree.


    My heart grew cold. Id never imagined that Li Yuntian had this much money. It seemed like hed been a dirty cop for many years.


    You can use online banking and do the transaction right here. Otherwise, I cant trust you. In case you trick us, where should we take justice? said Li Mazi.


    Li Yuntianughed. Good, youre frank enough. I like to work with such people. Anyway, I cant transfer it all at once. My online banking has a daily limit, so Im going to send you one hundred thousand as deposit. Ill send you the rest when Im safe.


    Dont talk nonsense. Li Mazi shot Li Yuntian a nce.


    Yin Xinyue couldnt stand it anymore. She wanted to yell at Li Mazi, but I stopped her, blinking several times to give her a signal.


    One hundred thousand was quickly sent to Li Mazi. After finishing the transaction, Li Yuntian limped away.


    Yin Xinyue was furious, and she turned to me with teary eyes. For just a small amount, you guys


    I interrupted her. Even a flys leg has a small amount of meat on it. We shouldnt waste it.


    As soon as Id said that, a police siren was heard in the distance. Yin Xinyue was surprised. Then, she got it. You guys are cunning.


    Well, if I wasnt cunning, how could I be an otherworldly merchant? I smiled faintly.


    Li Yuntian was arrested, and Yin Xinyue and the disabled girl became the witnesses.


    Soon, Li Yuntian was convicted. Since he knew thew but deliberately broke it, his crime wasnt tolerated.


    After that, two elders visited my antique shop. They told me that they were Li Yuntians parents. As soon as the white-haired parents saw me, they kneeled in front of me, crying and begging me to sell the ancient painting to them. They even handed me a bank card.


    It was money the two senile parents had umted over their lives.


    I made a pot of tea and listened to their old stories.


    Their ancestor, Crown Prince Yide, had always thought about his people. However, he offended Wu Zetian, and the corrupted officials plotted against him. He was jailed before quickly being sentenced.


    From that day forth, the Li family, through many generations, had always been filled with integrity. They hated corrupted officials the most.


    It wasnt an exception for this generation, either.


    Li Yuntians childhood had been rough as hed lived in poverty. Hed endured hunger many times. However, with his courage and persistence, he was epted into schools for police, eventually achieving his current glory.


    As this materialistic society had polluted him, his dream of being a good policeman had slowly been dyed gray. He just wanted to collect more wealth, to be promoted That was why hed eventually walked on a path he could never return from.


    I sighed. Money and power were just material things. We couldnt embrace them while we were still alive, neither bring them with us to the grave. However, theres always people who want to step on a minefield for them.


    In such a materialistic society, its really hard to keep the genuine, primary heart we have at the beginning. How many people could do that?


    I didnt take the bank card. Instead, I handed the elderly pair the painting directly.


    I hoped that the Li familys future generations would consider this their warning!

 Chapter 64: A Strange Female Client

    Chapter 64: A Strange Female Client


    Id done Yin Xinyue a great favor with the murderous ancient paintings case.


    It made her more dependent on me, and almost every day, shede to visit me at my antique shop.


    Sometimes, shed help me clean the shop or wash my clothes. In my heart, I had a feeling that we were living together.


    I was reluctant, indeed, since I didnt know what she liked in me.


    Yin Xinyue, apparently, understood Li Mazis thoughts. However, she showed no interest in him.


    But, since Li Mazi had just rescued her, whether shed done it deliberately or not, she often introduced Li Mazi to a few of her girl friends.


    Actually, except for his age, his slightly despicable character, and his son, he wasnt a bad man. Wasnt it true that the cute uncle was a trend now? Li Mazi belonged to this category. He got money and he put on airs. He was also considerate, and he had a straight but humorous character. He could talk well with girls ten years younger than him.


    Honestly, if we could match Li Mazi and help him rebuild his family, I thought it would be pretty good.


    The other night, I sat in my antique shop like usual, listening to the radio and watching the sky with my mind nk.


    All of a sudden, I thought about the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt. I wondered where he was. Although wed cooperated on multiple asions, he was still a riddle to me. He was a tricky riddle that I couldnt reason or solve.


    Overthinking things gave me a headache. Determinedly, I came inside and turned on myputer to download a movie.


    While I was watching with gusto, a woman walked into my shop. She was wearing a sexy, hot pink skirt that shrouded her round buttocks, revealing her long, fair legs. As she was walking on a pair of high heels, she was around a head taller than me.


    She was truly stunning!


    Although she wasnt as beautiful as Yin Xinyue, her attractiveness to men was much stronger than Yin Xinyues.


    My first impression was that she was a prostitute or something.


    But, I still asked, Good evening, are you here to sell antiques?


    No, no. The woman shook her head. She seated herself in front of me and looked around, her face panic-stricken. I didnt know what she was looking for.


    After checking around, she exhaled then said, I want to ask something. Do you know Yin Xinyue?


    I nodded, I know her. What about her?


    Are you in a rtionship with Yin Xinyue? asked the woman.


    My heart jolted once as I looked at her in confusion. What? Who are you?


    The woman smiled. No, nothing. Then, she reached out and touched my clothes, even lifting my sleeve for a closer inspection. Next, she reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone.


    I didnt know if I shouldugh or cry. What was this woman doing?


    I immediately asked, Hey, hey, big sister, what are you doing?


    I didnt expect that me addressing her as big sister would enrage her. You blind bat, what did you call me? Do I look older than Yin Xinyue? You shouldnt address ady like that!


    I was perplexed and I couldnt understand the situation. What kind of mental disease did this woman have?


    I couldnt do anything but exin it to her, Its just a polite way to address someone.


    Cut it out. She rolled her eyes at me. I get it now. Youre nothing more than a poor guy. Well, Yin Xinyue spoke highly of you, as though you were the rich son of a wealthy family. However, youre clearly inferior to my boyfriend! Your fashion sense is terrible, and you dont even wear a watch. Theres nothing luxurious in your shop. You use a Xiaomi phone. You have no taste. I knew it. How could Yin Xinyue have a better boyfriend than me


    I was suddenly enlightened, I really was. This woman hade to my shop, at night, just to feel superior. These kinds of arrogant, self-centered women were really annoying.


    However, I wasnt enraged as I considered that she was just a patient with mental illness. I think youve found the wrong person. Im just a friend of Yin Xinyues. We dont have that sort of deep rtionship.


    Really? She instantly cheered up. Instinctively, she rubbed the golden ne on her neck, gently stroking it. So, its just Yin Xinyues one-sided love. Haha, even you, a poor man, doesnt like Yin Xinyue. How could she be proud and fancy in front of me?


    Then, she turned around and left.


    As I watched her leave, I didnt know whether tough or cry. Id just met someone that really liked to show off! Anyhow, I didnt actually take the matter seriously.


    The next day, when Yin Xinyue came over, I found that she had a bad expression on her face. She looked like shed just had a fight with someone as her eyes were red.


    I asked her, What happened? Did you quarrel with someone?


    Yin Xinyue sighed. I dont know what to tell you. Currently, I have a strange client. That client is extremely jealous, and she wants topete with me over everything. She doesnt spare anything, and I just quarreled with her. This sort of idiot is really hard to serve.


    I burst outughing. I already know your new client.


    Yin Xinyue was surprised. How do you know that client?


    I simply and frankly told her what had happenedst night.


    After listening to me, Yin Xinyues beautiful face blushed. How dare that womane here and make a mess? I do respect her boldness though!


    I hurriedly advised Yin Xinyue to not lose her temper. Women all have jealousy. But, some of them have reached a realm of their own. Just ignore her and youll be fine, okay?


    After I tried my best to calm andfort her, Yin Xinyue felt better and let her anger drain away.


    However, it was just temporary. During the next several days, every time Yin Xinyue visited my shop, shede with a lot of hatred. I looked at her pale face due to her indignance, and I knew that the problem was that strange client again.


    I didnt have any other solutions but to stay by Yin Xinyues side to be her aide.


    However, while listening to Yin Xinyue describing the situation, even me, the psychologist, didnt know if I shouldugh or cry.


    That client of hers was extremely jealous. She constantly thought that she had to have better things than Yin Xinyue.


    For example, several days ago, she saw Yin Xinyues bracelet. At first, she mocked and ridiculed Yin Xinyues bracelet for a long time. However, the next day, she bought a bracelet exactly the same as Yin Xinyues.


    Moreover, when she saw Yin Xinyues bag, she examined it thoroughly beforeing to a conclusion that Yin Xinyues bag was a counterfeit, which I, her poor boyfriend, had bought for her from some cheap shop on the streets. Despite that, the next day, shed be using a bag identical to the one Yin Xinyue had.


    And, as long as a man came to talk to Yin Xinyue, shed be so jealous she could die. Normally, shede and intervene, trying to seize the mans attention. Many times now, shed purposely embarrassed Yin Xinyue, making her lose her face in front of her friends.


    Yin Xinyue was really worried that one day, that womans enthusiasm and interest in me would grow. If that happened, shed think that I wasnt a bad boyfriend. Then, shed try to im me.


    I couldnt help but guffaw, thinking that the womans envy had reached a morbid level.


    I hurriedlyforted Yin Xinyue, telling her not to worry as I was poor, and shed seen me and had shown no interest.


    However, I didnt expect that the woman was really sick. Tonight, just after Yin Xinyue had left, she came to my shop.


    She was proactively trying to befriend me. Her speech was ambiguous and her limbs moved provokingly, asking me if I wanted to be with her.


    I couldnt help butugh. I didnt expect that shed even envy Yin Xinyue for having a poor man like me.


    I smiled as I said, I have a girlfriend already. So, sorry, but I cant be with you.


    After hearing my denial, she began her storm out. Hmph, you mean Yin Xinyue? Im pissed off. What do I have that isnt as good as hers? Why you love her, but not me? My body isnt sexy enough? Arent I more beautiful than her? Im richer than her and my profile is better than hers. What do you value in her?


    I told her, You look more beautiful than her and your body is sexier than her, but youre not my taste. I like types like Yin Xinyue.


    Nonsense! I didnt know what provoked her. She just jumped around and cursed me loudly.


    While scolding me, one of her hands rubbed her golden ne as if it could give her a boost. Do you think that Im so noble you could never reach my level? You dont need to worry. I know you desire me.


    I took a deep breath, feeling highly insulted. I was generally a calm person, but I couldnt put up with this woman, let alone Yin Xinyue!


    Should I help Yin Xinyue correct this womans behaviour? I ignored the woman and let myself be immersed in my heavy thoughts.


    You think youre nobler than me? What are you? Youre just a worker for some boss, right? Im the boss myself. I dont need to see my boss face every day! I said.


    Youre talking nonsense! Her head rose, determination visible in her eyes. Who told you that Im just a worker? Im a boss myself. However, mypany hasnt been transferred to me yet. My boyfriend told me that as soon as we get married, hispany will belong to me. Hmph!


    I couldnt help butugh. Is your boyfriend really rich? Do you believe that I have an item here that not even your boyfriend can afford it?

 Chapter 65: The Golden Necklace

    Chapter 65: The Golden Ne


    Stop talking nonsense! The woman was enraged. She ran to one of my shelves and grabbed two meticulously ice-cracked porcin vases, throwing them to the ground. You wait here. Tomorrow, Ill ask my boyfriend toe and buy your shop! Hmph, Ill make you die of starvation! Serves you right for not having good taste!


    Then, she panted as she turned around and left.


    I was shocked for quite a long time and couldnt get myself together.So, did shee here to confess to me or to wreak havoc in my shop?


    It was good that the vases shed smashed werent expensive. I just considered it a negligible loss.


    As soon as the woman had left, Li Mazi arrived. He bitterly asked me, Is that sexy womanpeting against Yin Xinyue to im you? I really envy you.


    When he mentioned the word jealous, I couldnt help but explode as I scolded him. However, Li Mazi was really thick-skinned, and he basically ignored my rebuking. He pretended to be deaf as he turned on theputer and started watching a movie.


    I thought things would end with this, however, the very next day, the woman returned. Moreover, she brought a young, second-generation rich man who was driving a Mercedes Benz with her.


    The woman was exceptionally content as she entered my store and pointed at me.


    Unwilling to see her, I asked, Why did youe here again?


    The woman sneered. Yesterday, I said that Id ask my boyfriend to buy your shop. Name a price. We dont care how much. My boyfriend can buy it anyway.


    I looked at the man, noticing the irritation in his eyes. However, to satisfy his woman, he had to suppress his annoyance.


    I smiled. One billion renminbi.


    The man didnt know if he should cry or smile. Brother, give me face, okay? Give me the real price.


    Then, one hundred million, I said. Sigh, so your boyfriend doesnt have even one hundred million? Well then, your boyfriend isnt as rich as I am, you see?


    She was extremely jealous, right? Id stick to this mental point and make her pay a heavy price.


    Shut up! the woman fumed. Unconsciously, she stroked her golden ne. My boyfriend is way richer than you! One hundred million? Okay, go, buy that shop for me.


    The man said begrudgingly, Qingqing, please dont make a mess here. This shop is, at most, valued at a few million. If you like, Ill open an antique shop for you. Is that okay?


    You Qingqing ground her teeth. Why dont you go and kill yourself? Some girls have boyfriends that can die for them, and all Im asking you for is a little money. You dont even want to satisfy me. Okay, I want to break up!


    You shouldnt be that fickle, the man said. What about this? You go home first, and Ill stay to negotiate with this brother.


    Qingqing shot me a malicious nce before she left. Looking at her creamy and soft thighs, I felt a little pitiful. How could such good legs apany a mean girl like her?


    After the girl had left, the man exhaled in relief. He patted my shoulder. Im sorry, bro. My girlfriend just has a mean streak, her hearts not that bad. Otherwise, I wouldnt be with her.


    I shrugged. So, her heart isnt bad? I wonder which features you like in her.


    The man sighed helplessly. Actually, Qingqing wasnt always like that. Her previous self and her current self areplete opposites. She used to be a bright and generous girl. Every month, shed donate to the Red Cross. I dont know what happened, but she changed within one night. It seems like whenever someone has something that she thinks is better than what she has, she cant stand it and she bes extremely jealous.


    Really? I was surprised as I stared at the man. Was she in an ident? Did you bring her to see a psychologist?


    The man told me that hed brought her to no less than twenty psychologists. However, Qingqing didnt cooperate as she mocked and ridiculed them before suddenlyining that her knowledge in psychology wasnt as good as theirs. Due to this, she wanted to go to university and take a course in psychology.


    I kept silent for a while. It seemed that she didnt only try topete with Yin Xinyue.


    Now, I pitied the man standing in front of me. Only he could stand Qingqings odd behavior.


    The man asked me if I could let him rent my antique shop for a while. After Qingqings temper had cooled, hed return the shop to me.


    Of course, I didnt agree. This shop was left to me by my grandfather. Also, I didnt need the money, so I immediately rejected him.


    Eventually, the man left, filled with disappointment.


    However, before he left, I asked him, Do you know about the golden ne Qingqing was wearing? Is it really expensive? Why she must touch it whenever she needs to boost her confidence?


    When he started talking about the golden ne, the man sounded so helpless. A friend of hers gave it to her. Actually, that chain isnt really worth much. But, ever since she started wearing it, she doesnt want to take it off and she needs to touch it many times a day. Its strange, really.


    Would you say that she changed after she started to wear that golden ne? I asked, half joking.


    The man smiled. Yeah, you got that right.


    After the man had left, I phoned Li Mazi, asking him toe to my shop to discuss a newmission.


    As soon as I mentioned business, Li Mazi became happy. He told me to wait for a while as hed immediately head over.


    Shortly after, Li Mazi walked through the door, looking utterly worn out. But, he still happily asked, What kind of business is it?


    I asked him, Do you remember the long-legged girl that paid me a visit several days ago? That long-leggeddy has an otherworldly item, but she doesnt know it. If we can take that otherworldly item, well be rich.


    Li Mazi was startled and immediately started asking me the details.


    Actually, I soon felt that something was strange. Even if she was a person with strong tendencies towards jealousy, she wouldnt be acting so haughty. And, I could see that the long-legged girl didnt look that healthy as even her shadow on the ground was a little dimmer. Apparently, it was a sign that she was being affected by the otherworldly item.


    Id also noticed her instinctive moves. Every time she felt guilty, shed touch the golden ne!


    At first nce, I knew that the golden ne wasnt worth much and that it didnt really match Qingqings high-end style. Thus, I wondered if the ne could be an otherworldly item...


    Thats why Id called Li Mazi over to go and probe the situation. He needed to check if the girls ne was the problem.


    As Li Mazi listened to me, his mood became increasingly cheerful. You want me to stalk that girl? Im sure Ill fulfill my mission.


    Stalking my ass! Shell take the ne off at night. You should disguise yourself as a courier and deliver something to her. Just find a chance to check if her character changes or if its still annoying.


    Li Mazi instantly nodded. To him, it was a good job he could never ask for.


    After discussing our ns, Li Mazi left to start his part while I stayed behind to think it over.


    I was filled with doubt. What kind of item could affect the wearers character, slowly turning them into a different person?


    I was sure that the golden ne wasnt something normal. This was because regr otherworldly items didnt cause such effects.


    As I worried for Li Mazi, I wiped away the cold sweat drenching my brow. I was really worried that hed encounter something dangerous.

 Chapter 66: Burning Incense to Expel the Evil Spirit

    Chapter 66: Burning Incense to Expel the Evil Spirit


    I kept in touch with Li Mazi via phone. In case something unexpected happened to him, I coulde and rescue him in time.


    However, it seemed like Li Mazi was doing well. I hung up the call after Li Mazi had knocked on Qingqings door.


    Unfortunately, after no more than five minutes had passed, Li Mazi called me, his voice filled with fear.


    I asked immediately, What happened?


    Li Mazi was panting as he said that it was hard to say over the phone. He then promised to exin everything when he came back before asking me to prepare meat and drinks tofort him.


    My anxiety increased. It was rare that something could scare Li Mazi so much that he started stammering.


    I went to buy a bag of duck necks and two bottles of alcohol from Jingjia Distillery. Then, I waited to have a good chat with Li Mazi. When hed consumed liquor, hed be livelier, and perhaps he could give me some clues.


    It didnt take long for Li Mazi to arrive at my shop, his face set in a grimace. Upon seeing me, he threw me a resentful nce, scolding me for giving him such a dangerous mission!


    I forced a smile. If you want to earn money, you have to take risks, right? Quickly, tell me, what did you see over there?


    Li Mazi took a deep breath as he stared at me fearfully. Even if I tell you, you probably wont believe me.


    Li Mazi grabbed two tumblers of wine.


    Back then, hed peeped through the window and saw Qingqing taking off her ne before going to bathe. Then, hed knocked on her door. When Qingqing came to open the door for him, she wasnt wearing the ne, and she was only dressed in a bathrobe, her wet hair cascading down her shoulders.


    I could imagine how beautiful that scene would be. I wondered if Li Mazi had controlled himself.


    Li Mazi had told Qingqing that he was from an express deliverypany and that he needed her signature, using this chance to observe her.


    She looked quite normal, with nothing tantly wrong about her. After Qingqing had signed the receipt and lifted her head to hand the receipt back to Li Mazi, he then found something strange.


    He saw something ck on Qingqings chin. At a closer look, he realized that it was a beard!


    Qingqing had grown a beard! Although it was just a thinyer, when this beautifuldy wore such a beard, it was still shocking to Li Mazi.


    When Qingqing was about to close the door, Li Mazi suddenly made an offer. Mydy, youre so noble. Why dont you have a ne around your neck? I happen to have a ne I prepared for my girlfriend. But, we had a fight and then broke up. Do you want it? I can give it to you for only half price.


    Qingqing gave Li Mazi a disdainful nce. Would a man like you have something authentic?


    Li Mazi smiled. Dont think that Im just a delivery guy; Im mature and rich. Perhaps you arent even as rich as I am.


    The way Li Mazi talked had provoked Qingqings envy, and she stared at him as if she wanted to eat him alive. What are you babbling here? I have an item in my house that is more valuable than what you can earn for your whole life.


    Li Mazi said, You have a golden ne? I dont think so.


    Qingqing then brought the golden ne for Li Mazi to see. She said that her golden ne could buy a hundred nes like the one in Li Mazis hand. It was made from an ancient golden ingot.


    Li Mazi said, I dont believe you. Its just a counterfeit. Qingqing was so mad that she began to scold Li Mazi. She even said that she wanted to buy Li Mazis house to prove how rich she was!


    Then, bizarre things happened from here. While Qingqing was scolding Li Mazi, she unconsciously rubbed her chin, her hand even moving as if she was actually stroking her beard.


    Her beard was short, yet Qingqings hand repeatedly moved all the way down to her chest when stroking the beard. At that moment, she didnt look like a woman, but a man.


    Li Mazis gaze identally met the mirror behind Qingqing.


    When Li Mazi saw the image in the mirror clearly, he shrieked in fright!


    He didnt see Qingqings reflection in the mirror, but a man wearing an elegant, ancient long robe. The man had a thick beard, and his red eyes were staring at Li Mazi from his hairy face.


    As Li Mazi saw his hairy face moving, he knew that the man was scolding and cursing him.


    Li Mazi was so scared that he almost peed himself. He had to run for his life, rushing all the way to my antique shop. Even though he was in my antique shop, he couldnt calm down. He still felt someone watching him. However, when he turned around to check, there was no one there.


    I scoffed, Do you want to die? Someones watching you, and you didnt tell me immediately?


    I pulled Li Mazi over to the full-sized mirror in my shop and told him to stay put.


    It seemed that seeing that picture in the mirror had really scared Li Mazi. Thus, as soon as he saw the mirror, he shivered. What are you going to do? Has that bearded man followed me here?


    I asked him to keep silent, and no matter what he was about to see, he shouldnt talk unless he wanted to be with something foul for the rest of his life.


    Li Mazi became terrified when he noticed my serious expression, so he took a deep breath to adjust his mood. I quickly gathered a big bunch of joss sticks, burning them in front of the mirror. I asked him to stay put and just imagine that he saw nothing.


    Afterward, I stood in a blind corner where the mirror couldnt reflect, carefully observing the situation.


    Those sticks werent any ordinary joss sticks. They were made with the ashes from murderers sentenced to death, which contained great resentment. I was about to use poison to treat poison to expel the thing stalking Li Mazi!


    At the beginning, everything was normal as the burning joss sticks released smoke. The wisps of smoke swirled and rose into the air, permeating the not-so-big room.


    However, soon, the smoke began to fly askew, entering the mirror entirely! The mirror acted as if it was a big venttor, not a mirror.


    As the smoke was absorbed, the joss sticks started burning faster. Instantly, the sticks looked much brighter.


    My eyes were glued to the mirror.


    Because of the smoke, I couldnt see the mirror clearly. However, I could still vaguely see a shadow. It wasnt Li Mazis reflection since it stood still and looked really slender.


    A pair of red, congested eyes gazed at Li Mazi.


    Apparently, Li Mazi spotted those terrifying eyes as he was shivering. I mentally cursed him for not having any courage. I stood behind him and gave him a good kick.


    Reluctantly, he tried to steady himself. He opened his eyes wider, showing his fierce and evil expression as he stared at the mirror.


    He stood like that until the joss sticks were burned down. As the smoke dissipated slowly, the mirror returned to normal. It looked like nothing had happened.


    Li Mazi cocked his head to one side as he looked at me. Little Brother Zhang, was that thing expelled yet?


    "Expelled?" I forced a smile. That would be nice. Apparently, he wasnt willing. Im afraid that hell start stalking you again.


    What?! Li Mazi was pissed off. Youre not nice at all. No wonder you didnt go and stalk that slut yourself. It turns out that you were worried about getting followed!


    I spat, Since Im here, what are you worried about?


    Now, I could conclude that Qingqings change of heart was because of some otherworldly item. I was one hundred percent sure that it was the golden ne around her neck. We had to think of a way to steal it to study its origin.


    Li Mazi hurriedly waved his hand in dismissal. If you want to steal it, you can do it yourself. I dont dare go there one more time


    I told him, Who asked you to steal it? Of course, I have a nice n.


    Then, I phoned Yin Xinyue.


    It seemed that Yin Xinyue was sleeping as her voice was somewhatnguid.


    I told her that I wanted Qingqings rich boyfriends number.


    Yin Xinyue sounded upset as she asked me why Id want Qingqings boyfriends phone number. I told her it was possible that Qingqing was affected by an otherworldly item.


    After listening to me, Yin Xinyue was startled. She hurriedly asked me, Is that true? Have you verified it?


    I told her it was verified, and that the problem came from Qingqings golden ne. I now needed a way to touch that ne. That was why I needed Qingqings boyfriend to work with me.


    Yin Xinyue kept silent for a while, then told me shed call the boyfriend! That man was really busy, and most of the time, his secretary would pick up the phone. Anyway, its reallyte already. How about calling him tomorrow?


    I nodded. I actually didnt care about sorting it out tonight.


    Li Mazi didnt dare to go home to sleep since he was worried that hed bring something foul to his home. I was toozy to ask him to leave, so he slept on my couch.


    Early in the morning, Yin Xinyue came over, her eyes red and her face exhausted.


    Li Mazi joked, You didnt sleep because youre scared of the otherworldly item?


    Yin Xinyue snorted at him. No, yesterday I tried to finish my work early so that today I could help you guys y demons and expel evil spirits.


    I didnt have time to let them quarrel as we needed to prepare. Otherwise, my mind couldnt rx.


    Yin Xinyue called Qingqings boyfriend. Soon, she was connected. She asked him toe to my shop as we needed to talk about something very important.


    Qingqings boyfriend seemed busy. How about tonight? Id like to invite you guys to have dinner together.


    Yin Xinyue asked for my opinion. I frankly received the phone from her, saying with a smile, Brother, if you want something bad to happen to your girlfriend, it doesnt matter if youe here tomorrow.


    Then, I hung up.


    The man called us several timester, but I asked Yin Xinyue to ignore the calls.


    Eventually, he sent a short message, telling us that hede over as soon as he finished his current business.


    Of course, the moment the man arrived, he looked utterly pissed off and he started screaming. Compared to his elegant manner of a gentleman yesterday, he was apletely different person today.


    I didnt mind him, and just sat calmly in my shop.


    If we didnt put him in ce, hed push for a meter if he got a centimeter!


    As soon as he saw me, he asked fiercely, You told me that something happened to my girlfriend. What is it? Do you know youve dyed many business deals of mine?!


    My hands were tied. I didnt expect him to be so in love with Qingqing.


    As naturally as possible, I said, Have a seat please, Im going to tell you now. Your girlfriend had possibly been possessed by something foul. Thats why she changed so suddenly and so bizarrely.


    The man was bewildered at first. Then, he stared at me. Youre talking nonsense. Do you think that you can deceive me for my money?

 Chapter 67: Ghostly Shadow Causes a Car Incident

    Chapter 67: Ghostly Shadow Causes a Car Incident


    Yin Xinyue hurriedly exined, Director Wang, please dont get mad, but listen to Brother Zhang. Hes a man with skills. Remember the human bone ne? Actually, that human bone ne was found by him.


    Later on, I learned that the mans name was Wang Shaocong, the General Director of an advertisingpany.


    Obviously, Wang Shaocong knew about the human bone ne. After listening to Yin Xinyue, he was surprised and started studying me. His attitude became much friendlier. So, sir, can you tell me the details? How did my girlfriend get involved with this foul thing?


    I nodded, signaling for Wang Shaocong to take a seat. Then, I asked him, Theres a golden ne your girlfriend doesnt want to take off, right? Even when she takes a bath or sleeps, shell put it next to the mirror by her side. I wonder, does she let you use the mirror whenever she puts the ne there? Im guessing she doesnt.


    The corner of Wang Shaocongs mouth slightly twitched. Apparently, what Id said was all true!


    After thinking it over for a while, Wang Shaocong was still perplexed. But, how does that rte to the foul things that follow her?


    Li Mazi said, You cant even guess it? Okay, let me tell you honestly. When she puts the ne next to the mirror, the spirit from the ne will go to the mirror and show itself. Your girlfriends afraid that it could scare you.


    Theres a spirit dwelling inside that golden ne?! Wang Shaocong screamed. It How could that be? Its just an ordinary golden ne.


    "No, I said. Why would Qingqing care about an ordinary ne that much? That golden ne has a magic power that can enchant people. Its like a drug, so youd better solve this early. Otherwise, youll have to bear the consequences.


    Wang Shaocong looked pensive. Then, he nodded as he somewhat believed me.


    No matter what, everything that was happening was really strange.


    Brother, can you name a price? Wang Shaocong handed me a cigarette. As long as Qingqing can recover her normal self, Im willing to pay any price.


    Li Mazi looked somewhat irritated. Director Wang, I say, why are you so infatuated with that woman? With your credentials, the girls chasing after you could form a battalion.


    Wang Shaocong did not sound too confident as he said that they were each others true love.


    Later, Yin Xinyue told me that Wang Shaocongs so-called true love meant that Qingqings father had a few assets worth several hundred million renminbi.


    Then, I told Wang Shaocong, If we want to deal with the evil spirit inside the golden ne, we must first know that spirits origin. And, if we want to know its origin, we have to make direct contact with the golden ne.


    Wang Shaocong drew two cigarettes as he nodded. Okay, Ill swap her golden ne tonight. Then, you can have time to study it.


    I agreed.


    After setting up the n, everybody stayed and waited at my shop.


    At the same time, Qingqing asked Wang Shaocong to go shopping. However, Wang Shaocong rejected her, and Qingqings jealousy arose. She scolded him on the phone, asking what was more important in his heart; her or work?


    Wang Shaocong awkwardly hung up the phone, then begged me to expel that evil spirit.


    The sky darkened fast. I asked Wang Shaocong to go to Qingqing and apologize to her. Tonight, he must try his best to stay with Qingqing and distract her from realizing that her golden ne is stolen.


    Wang Shaocong nodded. Dont worry, its no problem for me to be entangled with a woman.


    After Wang Shaocong had left, we stayed and waited for his call. Not long after, he called us and asked us to hurry over to Qingqings to watch.


    It would be easy to spot us if we went in a big group. Thus, I let Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue wait in the shop. I left with a bag of human ash joss sticks, and drove to Qingqings apartment.


    I found a remote, dark corner, and waited there. Not long afterward, Wang Shaocongs Mercedes-Benz pulled to a halt in front of the building. Wang Shaocong held Qingqings hand as he walked to her apartment.


    On the way, Wang Shaocong bumped into a friend of his and stopped to chat for a moment. However, Qingqing acted like a freak. She started quarreling, using Wang Shaocong of having an ambiguous rtionship with the other woman. Wang Shaocong was so embarrassed.


    I was a bit worried. If they couldnt stay together tonight, everything wed prepared this morning wouldve been done in vain.


    However, Id underestimated Wang Shaocongs skills when it came to taming women. He only needed to say a few words, and Qingqing immediately rxed. I exhaled in relief.


    After Wang Shaocong and Qingqing had entered her apartment, I came closer to watch by her door.


    They exchanged sweet words for a while before Qingqing went to take a bath. Seizing the time she was in the bathroom, Wang Shaocong swapped the golden ne. Hurriedly, he opened the door and threw me the ne, asking me to leave quickly.


    I caught the ne, hurriedly getting in my car. Burning the bone ash joss sticks, I ced the golden ne next to the sticks, stepped on the throttle, and started driving to my shop.


    I drove as fast as lightning since I was worried that the golden ne could affect me. To prevent any possible mistakes, I chose the long way around, avoiding routes packed with traffic or people.


    I sometimes checked the rear-view mirror to see the bone ash joss ticks behind me. Since the smoke looked normal, I thought that there wouldnt be something out of my expectations.


    However, when I looked back at the road, a shadow was standing in front of my car. I didnt know when or how it had appeared.


    Frightened, I stepped on the brake and turned the wheel immediately. However, it was toote. My car hit the shadow.


    I took a deep breath, then stopped the car. However, as soon as I halted, someone hit the back of my car. I turned around and found that an Audi had just hit me.


    The Audis driver got out and started to scream at me, demanding to know why Id braked all of a sudden. I didnt have time to mind the Audis driver. The most urgent issue now was to check if Id hit someone.


    However, when I got out of the car, I didnt see anybody that I mightve hit. There wasnt a scratch on my car, either!


    What bad luck! I hurried to get in the car to go home.


    However, the driver of the Audi that had bumped into the back of my car was still pestering me. Right at this moment, Yin Xinyue called me and asked, Hows it going?


    I told her that an Audi had just kissed my car. Yin Xinyue told me not to worry because she knew the Chief of the Traffic Police team and would give her a call.


    After the Audis driver, who was screaming and cursing arrogantly, received a mysterious call, he didnt even dare to utter a word. So, I quickly seized the opportunity to leave.


    I was anxious as I knew that the shadow was a trick caused by the golden ne! Immediately, I checked on it and I could see a vague human head floating above the golden ne.


    It was the face of a man with a thick beard covering almost all of his face. He was staring at me with red eyes. I was terrified and promptly blinked to check that what I was seeing was real. The human head was gone and the golden ne was stillying on the back seat. The human ash joss sticks were extinguished


    Not good!


    I cursed under my breath and lit the rest of the ash joss sticks Id brought.


    To help the resentment-like energy in the ash joss sticks maximize their subduing effect on the golden ne, I didnt even open the windows. Smoke hovered in my car, making me dizzy.


    It was really hard to get to the antique shop in such a condition. As soon as I got out of the car, I began to retch, so Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi hurried to support me. I asked Li Mazi to fetch the golden ne. I needed to examine it carefully!


    This golden ne, at first nce, wasn''t made of pure gold. It wasnt shiny enough. When I touched it, the surface was a little rough as it wasn''t a delicately made essory. The ne had many ck dots with red tints.


    Li Mazi said, Isnt it made of artificial gold? And, it looks like this because the old artificial gold has faded.


    I shook my head as I thought that wasnt the cause.


    I was sure that the red tint was the root cause of this evil ne.


    I lit an alcohol burner and kept the part of the ne with red tint above the me. Soon, the yellow me burned and charred the golden ne. The heat followed the ne and burned my hand. I couldnt do anything else but put on a glove and continue to burn it.


    At this moment, faint sounds arose from inside the golden ne.


    Immediately, I tried to listen carefully. I heard a crackling noise as if someone had sshed water into a wok of boiling oil.


    Whats going on here?I suddenly felt strange.


    Oh crap, its bleeding! While I was trying to listen attentively, Li Mazi suddenly screamed. I was surprised and instantly checked the ne.


    A drop of blood was seeping out of the area I was burning the golden ne!


    Under the yellow me, the blood was clearly visible. It was singed and cracked, but it seemed to be bing one with the golden ne. No matter how high the me burned, the drop of blood clung to the ne and didnt fall.


    Li Mazi, turn the me higher! I immediately asked Li Mazi.

 Chapter 68: Coagulated Gold

    Chapter 68: Coagted Gold


    Li Mazi immediately used a pair of pliers to turn the me higher.


    As soon as the me rose higher, the drop of blood grew bigger as more collected. I thought that under such heat I could extract the blood and it would be no problem!


    However, progress didnt go so smoothly.


    Right at the time we were burning the ne, a ck car entered the street and headed straight for my shop.


    I was lucky that there were two stone lions standing at the gate. Otherwise, my antique shop wouldve been destroyed!


    My heart jumped with fright. I quickly asked Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue to go out there and check the situation.


    However, as soon as they arrived at the gate, they screamed in terror. I immediately turned around to check on them.


    It was a Mercedes with its front bumperpletely deformed, blood smeared across it. I wondered if it had hit someone on the way here.


    The cars door sprung open and Qingqing exited, holding a dagger against Wang Shaocongs neck. Wang Shaocongs hands were clutching his chest, his body littered with gory wounds. His face seemed to have taken the brunt of the injuries with two bloody cuts.


    He looked like he was dying as he was limping as he approached. It was astonishing that he was able to resist until now.


    I was so panic-stricken that I didnt have the mood to deal with the golden ne anymore. I screamed at the woman, Qingqing, what are you doing?! Hes your boyfriend!


    No, I dont have such a boyfriend. Qingqings features twisted with rage. She scolded through gritted teeth, Hurry up and give my husband back to me! Return my husband to me!


    Whos your husband? I was bewildered. Hurry, take Director Wang to the hospital. Or else, hell die here


    Qingqing snorted. It doesnt matter to me if he dies. Quickly, give back my husband!


    All of a sudden, Qingqings eyes shed. She screamed as she dropped Wang Shaocong, then aimed her dagger at us as she crazily stabbed forward. I jolted back in fear, hurriedly pulling Yin Xinyue aside to avoid the woman.


    Qingqing rushed into my antique shop and picked up the burning golden ne, lovingly stroking it. The scorching temperature burned her soft hands, causing many blisters and white smoke to appear. However, Qingqing didnt even bat an eyelid. Holding the golden ne, her eyes turned teary. My dear husband, Im so sorry. Its all my fault, I let the bad guy swap you. Im going to take you home now, okay?


    I then saw the golden ne slowly absorbing the drop of blood that Id tried so hard to extract.


    Reunited with the ne, Qingqing headed for the door. However, as she reached the doorframe, she seemed to be so indignant that she vomited a mouthful of blood onto the golden ne.


    The golden ne was like a sponge and greedily absorbed Qingqings blood!


    As she was leaving with the golden ne, she continually vomited blood on the ne!


    Li Mazi screamed after her, Dont leave! Then, he hurriedly chased after her.


    However, we didnt have the time to care about Qingqing as we had to urgently take Wang Shaocong to the hospital. I asked him, Are you okay?


    Wang Shaocong shook his head. My chest was just stabbed once. Most of the blood on me belongs to Qingqing. He was still very worried about Qingqing.


    Li Mazi was angry, and he shouted at Wang Shaocong, She treats you like that, but you still care about her? Are all other women on earth dead? Why are you so passionate about her?


    I smiled reluctantly. Qingqing was worth millions. If I were Wang Shaocong, Id be also tempted.


    I took Wang Shaocong to the hospital. As soon as they saw Wang Shaocongs bloody appearance, they were shocked and insisted that he should go to the intensive care unit. I couldnt do anything other than exin his melodramatic situation. Then, the doctor simply closed the cut on his chest with two stitches and wrapped him up.


    This time, Wang Shaocong finally believed that Qingqing was possessed by something really evil. Otherwise, Qingqing would never be that mad and wreak havoc over a golden ne! This was because, in the past, Qingqing hadnt even dared to kill a fish!


    I med Wang Shaocong for not being careful. How could he let Qingqing discover our n?


    Wang Shaocong was so upset. I dont know. After Qingqing had taken her bath, she put on the ne. Then, she screamed and started thoroughly checking the golden ne.


    Wang Shaocong had been worried that Qingqing would discover the counterfeit golden ne, so hed quickly tried to flirt with her and shift her attention.


    However, it was useless and Qingqing pushed Wang Shaocong aside. After tearing off the fake golden ne, she stood in front of the mirror and started to rub and stroke her beard.


    Then, with a cold expression, she said to her reflection, Dont worry, husband. Ill make them pay!


    At that moment, Wang Shaocong had thought that Qingqing was talking to him since she often called him her husband. So, he proceeded to talk to her.


    However, Qingqing acted like a squid as she spurted blood on the mirror. Wang Shaocong was terrified. He was worried that Qingqing was so angry that she vomited blood, so he rushed forward and hugged her.


    Unfortunately, Qingqing turned around, stormed toward him, and stabbed him with a dagger. Luckily, hed leaned to the side and the dagger hadnt sunk deep into his chest.


    Qingqing forced Wang Shaocong to find her golden ne, and because he was hurt badly, he had to follow her order. That was why theyde to my shop.


    Coming to this part, Wang Shaocong added, It was then that I was certain that she wasnt Qingqing. One hundred percent sure. She gave me the feeling that she was a great general in ancient times whod killed many people.


    On the way here, Qingqing had vomited blood several times. Most of her blood had sshed on Wang Shaocong. Since shed lost a lot of blood, Qingqing became quite pale, and he wondered how she was now.


    Listening to Wang Shaocong, I was fearful. Id thought that the golden ne could only affect her character temporarily. I couldnt imagine it could change herpletely!


    And, at the same time, my mind was spinning. I seemed to know what kind of otherworldly item that golden ne was!


    In legends, there was a kind of gold making which fused a dying persons blood into gold. It was called Coagted Gold. There were various kinds of gold with different side effects to the users. However, if they knew how to use it, it could call more wealth to their house.


    But, if the blood was from a person whod died filled with resentment, the user would feel resentful and aggrieved. He or she could cry all day long.


    If the blood donor died filled with hatred or anger, the user would always be hot-tempered, and he or she could rage at anybody.


    If blood of an envious person were used, of course, the user would do anything to satisfy his or her jealousy.


    These three types of Coagted Gold had onemon feature: The users would have a very strong sense of dependency on the gold things. It was so strong that they could never leave it for even a second.


    There were many signals showing that Qingqings Coagted Gold ne was the third type.


    I told Wang Shaocong my analysis, and he immediately asked me, How do we deal with that damn Coagted Gold thing? If we cant do anything else, we should forcefully melt that golden ne. I think we can seed if we do that.


    I said, First, we need to check and see whose blood is in that golden ne! Thats how well be able to give the right treatment for the right disease!


    How do we check that? asked Li Mazi. Do we capture the ne and then burn or drown it, forcing it to spit out the information?


    Nice joke, I scoffed at him. Youre not good at history, so stop babbling. I mean, think about it. In history, which famous person died because of his strong jealousy?

 Chapter 69: If Yu Was There Already, Why Was Liang Ever Born?

    Chapter 69: If Yu Was There Already, Why Was Liang Ever Born?


    Li Mazi thought for a bit, then said, Well, who else could be? It definitely has to be Zhou Yu [1]. During the Three Kingdoms period, Zhou Yu became a great governor of Western Wu at a young age. He was very intelligent and resourceful. Of course, only a talented young man like him could be famous nation-wide. But, he was very jealous of the genius, Zhuge Liang. He wanted to cause trouble for Zhuge Liang in everything he did. However, Zhuge Liang outsmarted him, causing Zhou Yu to die while feeling extreme jealousy and anger! Before he died, he faced the sky and screamed: I was already here, so why was Liang ever born? ...So, you mean Zhou Yu, right?


    I nodded. Right, its Zhou Yu. If you think about it, whats Zhou Yus weapon?


    Li Mazi shook his head. I dont actually know that.


    Zhou Yus weapon was a Guding broadsword bestowed by Sun Jian. In legends, his Guding broadsword was made of gold. It was possible that before he died, Zhou Yu vomited blood on it. Later on, someone melted and forged it into a gold ingot, circting it around. Then, in modern days, it was made into that golden ne, I carefully analyzed.


    Wang Shaocong immediately asked me, How can we make Qingqing throw that golden ne away?


    I patted his shoulder. Is your body okay? Tonight, well need your assistance.


    No problem, Wang Shaocong said. What do you want me to assist you with?


    Tonight, you have to stop your girlfriend by shaving her face. Of course, you dont need to really shave her, just pretend that youre doing it! I told him.


    Wang Shaocong was a little scared. What if my girlfriend flies into a rage? True love you must hold dear, but life is much more precious.


    I then said, If you cant do that, should I be with your girlfriend tonight?


    Wang Shaocong waved his hand. No need. Ill do it.


    Next, I asked Li Mazi to collect a drop of blood from the fingertips of one hundred evil people. Li Mazi just stared at me. Where am I going to find one hundred evil people? Moreover, how do I get the blood from their fingertips? If you want me to be beaten to death, just spit it out. No need to beat around the bush.


    I shot Li Mazi a fierce look. Think about it. You can go to the prison to check. The eviler they are, the better. Blood from murderers is the best.


    Li Mazi grinned evilly and looked at Wang Shaocong, Let Wang Shaocong find a solution. Im just a humble citizen. I dont have any rtionships with prison officers!


    Wang Shaocong then made several calls. Soon, he found a chance as he knew a prison which was doing health-checks for its prisoners. Theyd easily have a chance to take a drop of blood from the prisoners.


    Two hourster, Li Mazi triumphantly returned with enough blood to fill half arge coke bottle.


    I was a little surprised and asked Li Mazi, Oh, I only asked you for a drop of blood from each person. Why did you take so much?


    Well, werent you worried that you wouldnt have enough blood to use? I took a syringe from each prisoner. If I sold this amount of blood, I could earn several thousand renminbi.


    I scoffed, You idiot, thisrge amount of blood of yours is mixed. Whod want to use it?


    Wang Shaocong forcibly made the hospital staff discharge him from the hospital. After taking a few pain-killers, he left to see Qingqing while clutching his chest.


    The rich were always rich. Wang Shaocong didnt even bother to fix his broken car and just left it at hispany. He then drove away in an Audi R8.


    We followed Wang Shaocong to Qingqings apartment building.


    However, we didnt expect to see Wang Shaocong bump into Qingqing at the entrance of the residential area. Since we were worried that Qingqing would see us, we quickly drove to a remote corner and carefully watched the situation from there.


    At first, Qingqing wasnt happy at all as she scolded Wang Shaocong. But, Wang Shaocongs attainment in flirting with girls was excellent. With a simple exnation, he coaxed Qingqing into his car and entered the building.


    Li Mazi sighed. After were done with this, I must learn from him how to deal with girls!


    Yin Xinyue hit him. You dont need to ask for his advice because itll be a waste.


    Li Mazi immediately asked her why. Yin Xinyue answered, Because youre poor and ugly. Her answer upset Li Mazi for quite a long time.


    I drove to a parking lot behind Qingqings apartment, and from this ce, we could see into her apartment. Id specially asked Wang Shaocong to keep the curtains open.


    The pair had been watching TV all day long. They didnt even go out for dinner, but ordered from a restaurant.


    Wang Shaocong did have the good sense to also order food for us. After eating, Li Mazi rubbed his fists and looked up with anticipation. A good shows about to begin!


    Enraged, Yin Xinyue cursed at him. Then, she lowered her head to y with her phone.


    Around eleven or twelve p.m, Wang Shaocong and Qingqing began to flirt with each other. They first hugged and kissed. Then, they leaned against the window and did whatever things they wanted. I snorted, Shameless! This Wang Shaocong is showing off to us!


    I nudged Li Mazi, asking him not to crane his neck to watch in case others could see us.


    As I pulled him back, Li Mazi wasnt pleased. However, he couldntin about anything.


    It was a long, arduous wait until the pair had finished their business. A momentter, it seemed like Qingqing was fast asleep. Wang Shaocong walked to the window and shed us an OK gesture.


    I then patted Li Mazis shoulder. Its time to take action.


    We all hurried to Qingqings apartment.


    Wang Shaocong opened the door for us and we hid in the bathroom, signaling for Wang Shaocong to start.


    Wang Shaocong held the razor shakily. Indeed, he was scared.


    I cursed him under my breath for being a chicken. Since we were here, what was he afraid of?


    He eventually began to shave Qingqings face, but he tried his best not to touch her.


    My request was that he try his best to get as close to her skin as possible, without hurting her.


    Li Mazi was annoyed and asked me, What are we doing? Shaving?


    I exined, Do you know that Zhou Yu was actually a handsome man? His moniker was Zhou the Beautiful Youth.


    Li Mazi shook his head. I didnt know that. I only knew that Zhou Yu was a man with great luck as he got a wife called Little Beauty.


    Zhou Yu was a handsome man. Of course, he treasured his appearance a lot. He had an obsession with his face, and now his face has been scratched. Do you think hell ignore that? I smiled.


    As soon as I said that, Qingqing shrieked. She rolled and got up from her bed.


    Wang Shaocong was terrified and immediately paled. Then, he rushed toward the bathroom where I quickly covered his mouth and prevented him from talking. Carefully, I observed Qingqing.


    Qingqing sat up on her bed, opened her mouth wide, and screeched. Her ear-splitting shrillsted for quite a long time. At the same time, her eyes bulged, and her face twisted strangely.


    The ear-piercing sound Qingqing madested until she had no more strength to resist and some unnatural clucking, ttering sounds arose from her throat. They sounded horrible, like a machine crackling. Hearing it, I couldnt help but have goosebumps.


    Afterward, Qingqing got off the bed and fell face-first on the ground. She didnt even wiggle anymore.


    Wang Shaocong was so tense. He wanted to go out and lift her up. However, I stopped him, preventing him from moving while carefully observing her.


    Qingqingy face-down on the ground and didnt move. I exhaled gently, then stood up and grabbed the coke bottle. I was about to check the mirror in the bedroom.


    If I werent wrong, this mirror would now reflect something strange...


    However, I didnt find anything odd in the mirror or any situation I couldnt imagine. Everything was normal and quiet.


    I furrowed my brows. This situation wasnt something Id expected. In theory, after the evil spirit from the ne was expelled, it would have to find somewhere to dwell and protest against us. The most likely possibility was to show its aggrievance in the mirror because it had done that through the mirror several times.


    This time, the mirror didnt have any strangemotion, which was really confusing.


    Unless There was another mirror here!


    Right, wed predicted a lot, but wed calcted wrongly! I cursed under my breath and headed to the bathroom to ask Wang Shaocong if there was another mirror in this ce.


    However, as soon as I came close to the bathroom, I gawked in shock and goosebumps arose on my skin. I almost dropped the bottle of wicked peoples blood!


    1. Zhou Yuwas young and ambitious, but was always being upstaged byZhuge Liang, who was more talented. This saying is used toment the fact that theres always someone better than you, and that person is outshining you at every turn.

 Chapter 70: Fight To Win Or Die

    Chapter 70: Fight To Win Or Die


    Li Mazi and the other two were hiding in the bathroom, looking at me. They didnt know that, behind them, inside the full-length mirror, a cluster of dark hair was dangling and reaching out like des of seaweed. It was hovering, looking like it could attack any minute!


    I took a deep breath. This otherworldly item had intelligence. It was threatening me to stop me from intervening. Once I continued my deed, itd attack my friends.


    Even though it was a critical moment, I wasnt flustered. I took a deep breath before taking out my phone.


    When Li Mazi saw me standing still and gazing at the spot behind them, he recognized that something must be there. Instantly, his face turned pale and he wanted to turn his head around to check.


    I immediately shook my head, signaling him not to check. Once he saw the hair, it would attack him for sure!


    I prepared a short message to text to Li Mazi. Bite the tip of your tongue and keep the blood in your mouth. Next, walk forward


    Li Mazi checked his mobile phone, gawking. Then, he showed the phone to the other two nearby, so that they could see the text.


    Upon seeing the text, Wang Shaocong and Yin Xinyue became scared. However, they did well and they didnt disappoint me. They were still frightened, yet in just a blink, they did as Id asked.


    However, the moment Yin Xinyue bit the tip of her tongue, she felt so much pain that tears rolled down her cheeks.


    Then, the three of them held the blood in their mouths and walked toward me.


    When they were about to leave the bathroom, the cluster of hair began to move. It separated into three parts, each section aiming for their hearts!


    Right at this moment.


    I bellow angrily and move forward, tossing the blood of the evil people toward it.


    When the wicked blood hit the ck hair, it reacted like a patch of skin that had corrosive acid poured on it, sizzling and emitting white smoke. The cluster of hair instantly curled up in pain before hurriedly retreating into the mirror.


    Quick, take Qingqing out of here I yelled at the three still lying on the ground.


    Li Mazi finally reacted. He grabbed Yin Xinyue and stormed out of the ce. Wang Shaocong scooped up the unconscious Qingqing, quickly leaving the apartment.


    As the front door closed, I was very tense. I knew that the hair cluster was just gone for a while. Itll show up again soon.


    I didnt blink as I stared at the mirror in the bathroom, my shaking hand holding the bottle of evil peoples blood.


    However, the bathrooms mirror was strangely calm. Id been waiting for around ten minutes, and there was still no reaction. I was surprised, and wondered if the Coagted Gold had been dealt with that easily?


    While thinking about it, sounds of a collision suddenly arose behind me. I took a deep breath before turning around to check.


    I could never have imagined that the mirror in the living room now contained a soot ck figure. All of a sudden, that ck figure shot arge amount of hair toward me, trying to attack me.


    This time, the hair didnt gather into a big bunch, but divided into many smaller braids, reaching toward me from every direction.


    I wasnt prepared for such an abrupt attack. So, I was wrapped up by the hair like a leaf steamed bun.


    Immediately, I felt an evil chill creeping along my body, which made me nauseous. It was the hair from a dead head, how could I not feel disgusted?


    The hair forcefully pulled my body, dragging me toward the mirror and attempting to suck me in.


    I knew that once I was in there, itd be game over. My soul would be taken away and I couldnt do anything.


    I didnt have much time to consider. I lifted the coke bottle and poured the blood of the wicked people over my head as if it was water.


    The stench of the blood made me feel a little suffocated. However, I couldnt be picky right now, and I wished I could have more blood like this.


    After the hair was covered in blood, it retracted again.


    But, how could I let it run away? I snorted, then smeared blood all over my hands before grabbing a tuft of hair, and hitting my head fiercely onto the mirror!


    Before the hair could retreat into the mirror, the mirror shattered.


    Then, I pulled. I grabbed a shadow and tugged it out of the mirror.


    I didnt have time to check the shadow carefully as I hurriedly sshed all of the wicked blood onto it. It quickly began to sizzle and emit white smoke. It staggered toward me, reaching for my heart with its ws.


    I sprinkled more of the wicked blood onto my body for defence while using the same blood to attack the shadow.


    Under my efforts, the dark shadow began to fade. Shortly after, it disappeared. I finally exhaled in relief. I picked up the golden ne and soaked it in the remaining amount of wicked blood. Then, I opened the front door.


    At this moment, I felt extremely dizzy, and I heard a horrible buzzing sound inside my ears. I couldnt believe that Qingqings mirror was of such high quality. Id hit it with my head, and I now thought I had a concussion.


    Seeing my bloody appearance, the others were scared. They hurriedly helped me to stand as they asked me what the situation was.


    I smiled. Im okay. Take me to the hospital, please.


    After saying that, I felt a great dizziness before I cked out


    When I opened my eyes, I didnt know how long it had been, but I was now so thirsty that my throat was burning. Someone then passed me a cup of water after my mumbled requests.


    I tried my best to open my eyes wide and clear my vision. I thought that Yin Xinyue wouldve stayed to take care of me, but I never couldve imagined that it was Qingqing instead.


    Seeing that I was waking up, she hurriedly asked me, How do you feel now? Still have a headache? Does it hurt somewhere else?


    Compared to the previous Qingqing, the gentle, mild girl standing in front of me waspletely different.


    I smiled at her. Youre finally all right.


    Qingqing sighed, and put a soft pillow behind my back so I could sit up. Brother Zhang, thank you so much. If it werent for you, sigh I don''t know how worse I couldve be!


    My bad impression of Qingqings previous character vanished instantly. She was a well-educated and grateful girl. Immediately, I had a good feeling about her.


    It was nothing much. Just a little help. Oh, right, where are Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi? I asked.


    Yin Xinyue went back to work. Li Mazis buying you food, answered Qingqing.


    Why isn''t your boyfriend here with you? I asked. You dont look okay. Go home and rest! Li Mazi will stay with me.


    Boyfriend? You mean Wang Shaocong? When I mentioned Wang Shaocong, Qingqing was enraged. Dont talk about him to me. Hes worse than filthy animals!


    I looked at Qingqing with surprise. What happened? He helped you a lot, and he got hurt because of you.


    Qingqing forced a smile. You dont know everything, so Im going to tell you the truth. Actually, he gave me that golden ne. I asked a master, and that golden ne has Wang Shaocongs blood in it, which he could use to subdue me and make me follow him. To get me, he used such a low and despicable trick Sigh, tell me, why do women have to bear such harsh destiny?


    I was startled, and looked at Qingqing disbelievingly.


    I knew that Qingqing wasnt joking. However, I couldnt believe it. To im a woman, Wang Shaocong had used such contemptible deeds.


    At this moment, Qingqing must be extremely disappointed.


    All right, no more talking. Qingqing smiled at me. You should rest more. Im going to get more water for you.


    Then, Qingqing lifted the thermal bottle and left the room. Watching her back as she walked away, I felt a little pitiful for her.


    That girl was really pathetic. I didnt know what Wang Shaocong was thinking. She was a good girl, and she was troubled to this degree.


    Li Mazi soon returned. Seeing that I was awake, he came closer, lowering his voice as he asked, Wheres Qingqing?


    Looking at Li Mazis thief-like eyes, I knew the man was up to no good. I couldnt help but ask, Are you nning to hit on Qingqing?


    Li Mazi smiled. Im just going to normally chase after her. Im not like Wang Shaocong, I wont use despicable tricks.


    I patted Li Mazis shoulder. Its a good opportunity. Youd better not miss it.


    Li Mazi grinned. You should let Yin Xinyue help me style my appearance as I need a better outward look. With my current state, dont I look a bit bad?


    I smiled. Youre right. Yourepletely outdated. How about you let Yin Xinyue wrap you up and make you a new star?


    A long periodter, I still hadnt heard from Wang Shaocong. After half a year had passed, Li Mazi came to me and showed me a newspaper column. It was an article titled A rich young man goes bankrupt,mits suicide under mental pressure..


    And, the main character of this article was someone called Mr Wang.


    Immediately, I recognized that it was Wang Shaocong. Later on, Li Mazi told me that Qingqings father was the one behind Wang Shaocongs bankruptcy. No matter what, his daughter was enchanted. Which father could hold back his rage?


    One shouldnt have harmful intentions, and one should have the awareness to protect himself. It was a teaching from the ancestors. Through thousands of years, it was proven true. Although it was rough and shallow, many people understood, but still deliberatelymitted crimes.


    Money could provoke a cmity!

 Chapter 71: Nine Dragon Jade Pendant

    Chapter 71: Nine Dragon Jade Pendant


    After the Coagted Gold event, Li Mazi went to Yin Xinyue and asked her to dress him up in style. After he put on a suit and let some stubble grow under his chin, he really looked like a Korean uncle.


    After receiving themission of 500,000 renminbi from the golden ne, Li Mazi bought a second-hand Audi. Then, he started his crazy campaign to chase after Qingqing.


    In front of Qingqing, Li Mazi disyed his tenderness and manners. However, when he stood in front of me, he showed his true colors, which was of a typical despicable countryside man. He kept wearing his suits day and night and showing off.


    Today, I discussed with Li Mazi whether we should go to the countryside and collect some stuff. These days, I did not have many things to do and I was very bored. If I had to stay any longer in the antique shop, my butt would grow white mold soon.


    As we were men of action, I let Li Mazi go home to pack up some luggage and then we would depart.


    We were going to the countryside mainly to find leftovers. The money earned from this hunting trip wasnt enough for anything, it was just a traveling trip. Still, each time you saw an antique valuable enough to change the destiny of a farmer family thrown away as trash or just used as a poultry food holder, that sort of contrast was something that made you speechless.


    However, I received a call before we departed. I found the callers number familiar. Eventually, I recalled that it was the number the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had left me.


    Is the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt calling me?I hadnt seen him in a long time, and I wondered how he had been.


    I picked up the call. Indeed, it was him.


    Zhang Jiulin, help me a little over here. The man spoke frankly.


    I smiled and asked, Since when did you be so polite? What do you need me to help with, just tell me frankly.


    As he had saved my life, let alone helping out in a case, even if I were extremely busy, I would still give him a hand.


    The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt said, I have an urgent case that I cant walk away from. But I have a client that needs help with an otherworldly item. Im going to refer him to you. Do you have free time now?


    The man in the Kumamon t-shirt talked fast and hastily as he finished everything in a breath. It was probably the longest sentence he had ever said anything to me.


    I knew that he had gotten involved in something very troublesome. I answered him quickly, Give me your friends number. Ill call him.


    The man said, Hes already on his way to you. Then, he hung up.


    I smiled at Li Mazi, feeling a little disappointed. It seems we cant go to the countryside to treasure hunt. The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt has a client troubled by an otherworldly item


    Li Mazi said gravely, I need to make it clear first. Although we are friends, business is business. Even if Im going to help a friend, I will still take mymission. Im not going to work for free!


    I scoffed at him, Did you get blinded by money?


    Li Mazi said shamelessly, Wrong, actually. I only have eyes for money.


    What guy!I could only smile reluctantly.


    The next day, early in the morning, I was woken up by the sound of someone knocking on my door.


    With great irritation, I went to open the door. There, I saw a middle-aged, bespectacled man. He looked in his thirties or forties and was very mild-mannered. He smiled at me. Are you Boss Zhang?


    I answered, You are the client the man wearing Kumamon t-shirt introduced, right?


    He was bewildered for a while as though he didnt understand what I meant by the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt. However, he collected himself shortly, smiled and confirmed.


    I invited him to the antique shop.


    He looked really polite. As I could sense a noble aura from him, I understood that if he werent a rich businessman, he was sort of important official. However, standing in front of me, he was really humble, asking me about antiques and the stories of the items in my shop.


    The more I exined to him, the more impatient I became. I suddenly felt like he was probing my knowledge. Was it because he was deceived before?


    Eventually, I couldnt do help but ask, Excuse me, are you here to buy some antiques? Can I introduce some good items to you?


    The middle-aged man was abashed, smiling at me. Im sorry Boss Zhang. Im also an antique admirer. As Im seeing a lot of treasures here, I couldnt restrain myself


    Then, he took out a piece of green jade.


    He carefully put it in front of me and looked at it with a frightened face. Boss Zhang, can you check and see what''s the problem with this jade?


    I picked it up and studied it. The material was good, it seemed to be grade-A Hetian jade. Although the workmanship was excellent, it had some traces of vicissitude. The piece of jade had to be quite old. There were nine dragons, lively carved onto the jade. It seemed that only royal family members in ancient times could wear this jade because in ancient China, the dragon was the symbol of royalty. Ordinary people werent allowed to wear clothes with an embroidered dragon or use any tools with a dragon drawing or carvings on it. If they did, it would be considered a serious case of rebellion, which would result in the extermination of nine generations of their family. I estimated that this piece of jade was valued at around one or two million.


    The only strange feature was that the surface of the jade was a little yellowed.


    My first reaction was to wonder if the jade had been soaked in corpse oil. If it were true, this item would absolutely be an otherworldly item with a strong spirit. However, if it were soaked in corpse oil before, it would have strong resentful energy within.


    Yet, I didnt feel a bit of resentful aura. So, it would fall into one of the two following cases...


    The first case was that it wasnt an otherworldly item but amon piece of jade. And the corpse oil wasnt real corpse oil but cooking oil.


    The second case was that the resentful energy inside the jade had been sealed. In other words, someone had already processed this piece of jade. That would be why I could not feel any resentful energy.


    I patiently exined the two possible cases to the middle-aged man, then asked him, Has there been any problems with this jade?


    The middle-aged man nodded immediately. Yeah, definitely. Ever since Ive got this jade, a ghost is always pressing down on me while Im sleeping at night. Sometimes, I would wake at midnight to see a faceless female ghost wearing a red dress straddling me. No matter how hard I tried, I couldnt move or scream. Sometimes, this situation wouldst for the whole night


    I drew in a deep breath. A female ghost wearing red clothes? This was no joke. People all knew that red-dressed female ghosts were the fiercest and cruelest ones among the many kinds of ghosts. Perhaps, when the owner of this jade died, she had hoped to be an evil ghost to take revengeter on.


    I looked disbelievingly at the piece of jade.


    The middle-aged man immediately asked, Boss Zhang, do you have any n to deal with this jade?


    I took a deep breath then asked, Can you contact the previous owner?


    The middle-aged man shook his head. I cant. I bought it from a street shop. I dont know where the shop moved to.


    I said, Okay, tonight just leave the jade in my shop. I need to see how evil it is with my own eyes, only then I can find the right solution.


    The middle-aged man nodded immediately, telling me, No problem. Ill see you tomorrow. Then, he left hastily.


    I held the jade in my palm, carefully observing it. I had been turning it around and around to study for a long time but I couldnt find anything evil or suspicious. Eventually, I put it back on the table, waiting to see if the female ghost would appear.


    After dinner, Li Mazi came to my shop. Seeing the jade on the table, his interest was piqued. He picked it up to study it. A long momentter, he grinned.


    I was a little confused. What are you smiling at?


    Li Mazi said, Idiot, this piece of good jade was soaked in olive oil. That will reduce its price.


    I was startled, and I asked Li Mazi, How did you know that it was soaked in olive oil?


    Li Mazi said, Did you forget that I was a chef before? I can still recognize the smell of olive oil.


    I was still skeptical and asked, Can you prove it?


    He replied, Isnt that simple? Oil doesnt dissolve in water. You boil water and put the jade in it. Case closed.


    I hurried to boil a pot of water. When the water was boiling, I carefully put the jade into the pot. I didnt expect to see the jade shake continuously as the boiling substance continuously peeled off from the jade. Soon, the yellowishyer on the jade was washed away by boiled water.


    I immediately fished the jade out to inspect it. The jade now had its beautiful, original green color.


    It was really cooking oil as boiled water could never extract corpse oil!


    After all the water was boiled and evaporated, ayer of oil residue remained at the bottom of the pot. Li Mazi then used a lighter to ignite it. The oil residue burned immediately in a yellow me and the smell of olive filled the room.


    I was now confident it was actually olive oil.


    Needless to say, this business was over. That middle-aged man had nightmares every night not because of this piece of jade but his mentality.


    As the case was closed, I called the middle-aged man, asking him to make time toe over.


    He asked me how it was going. I told him, The jade was identally soaked in olive oil for a while. The jade itself doesnt have any problems. Your sleep paralysis must be because of psychological effects.


    The middle-aged man sounded calm. Excellent! Iming to you now!


    From his tone, he sounded as though he didnt really believe me. It didnt matter, the jade didnt have a problem, and so I didnt bother to worry about it.


    Not long afterward, he drove his car to my shop. His manner was the same, modest and respectful. I didnt spot anything suspicious from him. However, before he left he said, I will introduce you to some new business.


    Looking at his back as he left, I felt something inexplicable. He was very odd, and he felt more bizarre than the other otherworldly item cases I hade across.

 Chapter 72: Real client

    Chapter 72: Real client


    However, the middle-aged man came to me again the next day and I finally understood what had happened.


    It turned out he had used that piece of jade to test me!


    Id used my actions to prove that I wasnt a swindler. So, the middle-aged man now wanted to introduce me to the real client.


    How arrogant! The feeling of being toyed around was really irritating. But since it was business introduced by the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt, I could only be patient and endure it.


    I didnt expect that the middle-aged man would take me to the city government office and arrange for me to wait in a reception room. After entering the governmentplex, my temper cooled. I could see clearly that this matter was rted to an important official. It was no wonder why the other party was being so careful and skeptical!


    If I had known earlier, I wouldnt have epted this business. My grandpa used to teach me that,no matter what, try your best not to provoke or get involved with people from the government. Even if the profits and other advantages are there, the risks will be greater too.


    After waiting for around an hour and three rounds of tea, to my surprise, I had calmed downpletely as the real client finally arrived.


    The middle-aged man apanied a bald old man. The old man had a big belly and was wearing an official suit. As soon as he talked, I recognized his authoritative tone. Im sorry, my littlerade, I kept you waiting for a long time! I had a lot of work I couldnt get away from.


    Sir, youre being too polite. You have a lot of governmental work and Im just a little citizen. I can afford to wait, I said.


    Littlerade, you got good sense. The old bald man smiled. Have you ever thought about pursuing a political career?


    Thanks for the ttery. I waved my hand immediately. But I dont have the ability. I just try to make ends meet in the city.


    I didnt know how long I had been speaking like this, bantering back and forth with him. At some point, I didnt even know what to say.


    Then, the old man finally said, Littlerade, youre our distinguished guest. Secretary Ye, prepare a private and quiet room, I want to talk to my distinguished guest.


    The middle-aged man nodded. He made a call and then brought us to a private room in a five-star restaurant.


    On the way there, my heart was filled with anxiety.


    Should I take themission after I help him solve his problem? If I take his money, would he feel offended? But if I dont take the money, he might suspect that I would disclose his secrets.


    The more I considered, the more worried I became. Eventually, I asked the old man, Can I invite my partner? Hes also a master in this business.


    I thought Li Mazi was really good at negotiation and persuasion. In such a situation, he would definitely be able to hold his own.


    At first, the bald old man didnt agree. However, when he heard that it was my partner, he didnt object. I immediately called Li Mazi toe down. He didnt shirk away. To him, it was also a good chance to make a connection with someone in a high position.


    Li Mazi was indeed an experienced boot-licker. We chatted about random stuff for a long time and even finished lunch, but the old man still hadnt told me the situation that required my assistance. I felt like I was sitting on tenterhooks. Discreetly, I kicked Li Mazi several times under the table.


    Then, Li Mazi began to speak seriously, Sir, youve honestly done many services for the people, it will be our honor to serve you. Please tell us what has troubled you recently.


    The excitement on the old bald mans face faded instantly. He sighed then said, Recently, I dont know what happened. I always hear buzzing noises and I cant eat or sleep well


    I went to the hospital for a checkup. The doctor told me that my body is really healthy with no sign of sickness. He said perhaps it was my long hours and travel that exhausted my mental health, so he prescribed me some medication for my mental health.


    However, even though I took the medication, my situation didnt get better. The buzzing noise has be louder and more frequent. When I calmed down to listen, guess what I heard?


    I became tense. What did you hear, sir?


    It felt like a group of monks chanting in my head. And it was Sanskrit prayers! Sigh, it has been torturing me for days. I cant sleep and it affects my work during the day.


    If I didnt consider that this country still needs my old bones, I would have asked for retirement. Its not easy to work as an official! The old bald man sighed again.


    Li Mazi felt so touched that his eyes teared up. He walked forward and gently gave the old bald man a pat on his back. Sir, because of us, youve worked so hard. Even if were to say that youre the contemporary Kong Fansen [1], it wont be too excessive.


    The scene was disgusting to me. Looking at his big belly and this lunch in a five-star restaurant, it seemed he was one of those corrupt officials. However, I wondered if the old bald mans illness was really rted to otherworldly items


    Why did hee to find me? Could it be something to do with the antiques he owned?


    So, I asked him, Sir, are you carrying something cursed on you?


    The old man mmed the table loudly, which startled me as I thought I had said something I shouldnt.


    However, he eximed excitedly, Littlerade, you do have talent. Youve identified the crux with just one nce.


    Then, the old man took out a set of Buddhist prayer beads, also called m, and ced it on the table. Littlerade, you see this, yeah? Take a careful look. Is there something strange about these prayer beads?


    Immediately, I picked up the prayer beads to inspect them closely.


    From the material and the scent, I guessed it was made of ck sandalwood. Each bead was carved with the image of a monk sitting cross-legged on one side and some Sanskrit words on the other. It should be a set of Buddhist prayers.


    These Buddhist prayer beads were carved meticulously. I could see that the facial expressions of each of the monks carved onto the beads were different. Some looked enraged, some looked happy, some looked greedy with desires, and so on. The prayer beads should be from a very excellent handicraftsman, and it was definitely old.


    In short, these prayer beads had high value.


    However, I couldnt see any hint that it was rted to otherworldly items.


    No matter what, as it was rted to an important government official, I decided it would be better to be cautious. At first, I gave a lot ofpliments about the prayer beads. I said, This m must be Buddhist prayer beads with the strong mental power of a senior monk in it. It can protect the wearer and repel bad luck. However, if its used improperly, there will be side effects. Sir, your merits are well-known, thats why you will be protected by your citizens power of belief. I think that since you have these prayer beads in your hands, it might somewhat contradict the peoples power of belief. Have you ever thought about throwing the prayer beads away?


    Once an otherworldly item was taken away from the owner, it couldnt use its power on the owner anymore. As I couldnt see anything evil in these prayer beads, it would be better to just take them away. Everything would be all right then, right?


    However, the old man shook his head. It wont work. No matter where I threw the prayer beads or even gave them away, they would stealthilye back. Ive tried several times


    I was startled. Were the prayer beads that evil? They could even fly back and return to its owner!


    So I suggested, All right, lets do this! Today, please give me the beads. If it does have any problems, I wille up with a solution to deal with it.


    The bald man was ted. I can see you are very discerning! Dont worry, as long as you can help me resolve this, if you need help my helpter on, just call me and Ill try to do my best.


    It took a while to see him off. I exhaled in relief afterward, balling on my seat. Li Mazi, youre really tough. If you dont work for the government, it will be a big waste.


    Li Mazi rebuked me in reply, I dont want to be like that, its life that forced me to. Brother Zhang, have you figured out the origin of the prayer beads?


    I shook my head. Not yet. We should go back and study them.


    After getting back to my antique shop, I used a magnifying ss to inspect the beads. All kinds of otherworldly items must have had close contact with the deceased, and some were even made of human bones. As long as I observed carefully, I would be able to find some clues!


    However, I rolled the beads around and checked with the magnifying ss. I even used fine salt and boiling water, but I did not find anything suspicious. I was skeptical if the prayer beads were a real otherworldly item or not


    1. http://.china.org/china/60th_anniversary_people/2009-09/17/content_18547250.htm

 Chapter 73: The Monk That Eats Meat and Drinks Liquor

    Chapter 73: The Monk That Eats Meat and Drinks Liquor


    I asked Li Mazi to think of a solution. He replied that he didnt have any.


    We didnt sleep that night and tightly wrapped the prayer beads in a piece of clothing, finally locking them in my safe. After everything was done, I waited for the bald old mans call.


    If he had trouble, he would definitely call us.


    If there was no call, it meant that the Buddhist prayer beads wouldn''t affect him any further.


    Everything went fine for the next several days. The prayer beads stayed in the safe, and the bald old man wasnt bothered by the chantings. He did call me, but just to keep me apprised of his situation.


    Until one day, I ran into trouble. Sure enough, this matter wasnt going to end this easily.


    That day, I saw Yin Xinyue was upset, so I asked her, Whats happened?


    Yin Xinyue discreetly told me, The Tax Bureau is now keeping an eye on us. Actually, ourpany used to cheat on tax, and Im now in charge of tax in thepany, so Im worried about being investigated.


    Seeing her sulking, I was also upset. Soon, I remembered the bald old man. He worked for the citys government, right? This would only be a small matter for him.


    Thats why I called Li Mazi and asked him to visit the bald old man.


    Li Mazi reassured me then left.


    Afterward, everything went strangely smoothly.


    On the same day, the Tax Bureau staff left Yin Xinyues entertainmentpany alone. Herpany then rewarded her with a big chunk of money, which she shared with us because we had done her a big favor.


    However, I felt ashamed. This was the first time I had done something that vited my principles.


    Although almost allpanies had been cheating on tax, I couldnt keep myself clean, and I was now an aplice as well


    I spent the day with a troubled conscience.


    Unknowingly, night fell. Just like every day, I opened a bottle of liquor and prepared a te of beef for my supper.


    I didnt know why, but the liquor I drank and the meat I ate that night werent tasty at all. I didnt drink much but I felt a little tipsy. I couldnt help but force a smile. It seemed that doing something bad for the first time had really taken quite a toll on me!


    While I was distressed, someone outside the door called out, Merciful Buddha.


    I involuntarily shivered as I guiltily remembered the Buddhist prayer beads. Had the strange voice started to torment me as well?


    However, at this moment, I noticed that it was just an old monk standing at my shop front. I exhaled in relief.


    The old monk was shifty-eyed with dirty clothes and was holding a big, leafy fan. At first nce, he looked like a beggar. However, his eyes were full ofpassion, as if he could see through the whole world.


    I immediately stood up and greeted him, Good evening, old monk. How can I help you?


    The old monk smiled and replied, Im here to ask Benefactor to return an item of mine.


    I was confused, looking at him. Return what?


    Can I sit and talk? The old monk beamed kindly.


    I invited him in to sit and poured him a cup of tea. After the old monk finished the tea, he pointed at the liquor tumbler in my hand. He obviously wanted to drink some liquor.


    I didnt know if I shouldugh or cry. You are a monk and yet you also drink liquor?


    The old monk answered, Why cant I? If I dont keep liquor in my heart, when I drink it, its just a cup of tea.


    This old fellow was interesting and seemed likable. So, I poured him a cup of liquor.


    The old monk finished a cup of fifty-two percent highly distilled homemade liquor but his countenance remained unchanged. He gave me a thumbs up. Excellent! Good liquor!


    I was amused. It seemed Id just met a monk who ate meat and drank liquor.


    I didnt know what was going on here. This old monk looked dirty and he asionally would pick his feet and bring his finger to his nose to sniff. If he were on the street, people would avoid him in disgust.


    However, sitting here with him, I didnt feel disgusted. Quite the contrast, my anxious heart slowly calmed down. The old monk drank three cups of strong liquor in a row, however, he still didnt look drunk as he beamed warmly at me.


    Youre really terrific! I eximed, Youre such a good drinker, you dont even look tipsy.


    Merciful Buddha, liquor cant intoxicate you, you can get yourself drunk. I dont have liquor in my heart, how can I be drunk? said the old monk.


    I was a little bewildered, but I thought that the old monks words had a hidden meaning.


    Young Benefactor, you look a bit downcast. The old monk then wore a vulgar smile. Feeling guilty because of the evil in your heart?


    I got angry. What are you talking about? How could I have evil in my heart?


    Youd better not. The old monks eyes seemed to be judging me.


    What the heck do you want me to return? I lost my temper as my patience reached its limit. It seemed like the old monk could see through me and his recent words felt really offensive.


    The old man reached out his hand and said, Justice.


    Justice? What justice? What do you mean? I sat up and red at the old monk.


    This old monk was really bizarre and he seemed to know my thoughts.


    Justice for people whose houses were taken. Justice for workers who were exploited and abused, replied the old monk.


    Youre crazy! I screamed, Go away! I thought you were a senior monk, it turns out youre just a swindler!


    The old monkughed. Thank you, Benefactor, for your justice. Im leaving now.Then, the old monk grabbed a cube of beef and put it into his mouth. Thank you, Benefactor, for the beef.


    At that moment, I was speechless, quietly cursing the old monk in my mind. This bastard, which asylum he had escaped from to get to my shop?


    That night, I wasnt in the mood to run my shop. I decided to close the shop early and went to bed.


    However, I kept rolling around in my bed and couldnt sleep as my thoughts were filled with what the old monk had said. And the more I thought about it, the clearer my head became.


    The old monk, the prayer beads


    The prayer beads and the old monk!


    I suddenly remembered one thing the bald old man had said. The prayer beads would unknowingly return to him. And now, that old monk came here asking me for justice. Was the prayer beads the justice the old monk had mentioned?


    If it wasnt, how could things happen so coincidentally?


    My head heated, I rushed to my safe nearby and opened it.


    The scene I saw startled me. The safe was still locked properly but the prayer beads I had put inside were gone.


    That old monk had stolen the prayer beads!


    But how did he do that? Did I just meet a ghost?


    I was scared and called Li Mazi, asking him toe to my shop.


    He came over, his eyes still drowsy. You called me at midnight, is there new business?


    I pulled Li Mazi to take a seat. Anxiously, I told him what had just happened...

 Chapter 74: Threat

    Chapter 74: Threat


    As Li Mazi listened, he became stunned. However, he quickly returned to his senses. He smiled and said, "You''re too nervous. How can there be a ghost that likes to drink and eat?"


    I retorted, "In that case, how can you exin the disappearance of the prayer beads?"


    Li Mazi thought for a while but couldn''t find any exnation that made sense.


    I said, "If that old monk isn''t a ghost, he''s a Buddha. All his sentences were full of philosophical wisdom, and it seemed like he could see through my heart. Also, I think I know where the prayer beads are..."


    "Where?" asked Li Mazi.


    "At the ce of that bald old man," I replied.


    Li Mazi said with a smile, "That''s a joke, right? Or do you really think that the beads grew legs and ran away on their own?"


    I asked him, "Do you still remember what the old monk told me? He told me he wanted justice. Justice for those that don''t have a ce to return to and for those that have been exploited. Think carefully about what those words might mean."


    Li Mazi looked at me in surprise. "Did you harm someone?"


    I red at him. "It wasn''t me! It''s that bald old man that has done a lot of bad things, and the prayer beads were probably used to punish him and prevent him from doing any more evil. Now that I''ve brought the beads back, he must have gotten even worse. We are basically helping a tyrant do evil. That''s the reason the old monk came here in person and demanded justice."


    "We have done some bad things as well like evading taxes. Don''t you also feel restless after having done something against thew?"


    Li Mazi looked at me, visibly scared. "Little Brother Zhang, please stop scaring me! Anyway, let''s just forget about this matter. If that old man doesn''t give us a call, we shouldn''t meddle any further. It''s definitely not worth it to anger a Buddha for a stupid, corrupt official!"


    I nodded. "If the old man gives us a call and asks for help, we should decline."


    However, one couldn''t simply wash their hands of some matters.


    The very next day, in the early morning.


    The middle-aged man came again and secretly looked for me. "I just wanted to know if there was anything new about the prayer beads."


    I simply told him the truth. "Those prayer beads disappeared."


    The middle-aged man sighed. "No wonder, no wonder..."


    Last night, the bald old man had heard the chanting of Buddhist scriptures again. This time, the chanting was louder than before, as if someone was shouting it from beside him. He covered his ears, but it didn''t help. It continued all night and almost made him go crazy.


    That was why he hade looking for me.


    I shook my head. "We are also powerless. Those prayer beads are too powerful, they are beyond what I can deal with. It''s better if you look for someone else more qualified for this job."


    The middle-aged man was unhappy with my answer, and his tone turned unfriendly. "Friend, you should pay attention to what you say. Still, I won''t force you and I''ll give some time to reconsider. Think about it carefully, alright?"


    Damn, is this a threat?


    Whatever... if you want to threaten me, go ahead. It''s not like you can shoot me dead in broad daylight! Even if you have power, you can''t abuse it like that.


    However, I underestimated them.


    That same day, the middle-aged man called me several times, but I didn''t pick up. Then, the very next day, there was an ident.


    Several police cars surrounded my antique shop, with the police seemingly nning to tear it down.


    People from the Tax Bureau also came over to check my revenue. I was a merchant of otherworldly items, what tax was I supposed to pay?!


    Still, those guys stayed at my ce for the entire day.


    Later, I received a call from Yin Xinyue. "I''ve received a letter from thewyer. It''s about the tax evasion of thepany. What is happening? Wasn''t this matter already taken care of?"


    I had a headache. Officialdom and bureaucracy were like a quagmire. Even if you were clean, it wasn''t easy to get out.


    Given the situation, I could only look for Li Mazi and discuss it with him.


    It turned out that Li Mazi was even more anxious than me. The police had also paid him a visit, and they were apparently investigating him for cases of grave robbery. If he was found guilty, it would be over for him.


    In the end, he patted my shoulder and said, "If we can''t defeat the other party, we might as well admit defeat, just for appearance''s sake."


    Since I knew that there was no other way, I told Li Mazi, "Go to the public rtions department and make an appointment with that bald old man. I have a few things I wish to discuss with him."


    Li Mazi said, "Alright, let''s do it that way then."


    So he made a trip to the municipal government and informed me that the appointment was again at that five-star hotel that afternoon.


    After the trip, Li Mazi discovered that the police cars and the members of the Tax Bureau had left my shop.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Then, I contacted Yin Xinyue. "Tell yourpany to pay the remaining tax money! Something might happen to the bald old man soon and you might want yourpany to stay out of it."


    Yin Xinyue agreed with my suggestion.


    In the afternoon, I went to the hotel to meet with the bald old man face-to-face.


    The old man was no longer that amiable and he looked rather displeased. He arrived one hourte and just sat on his chair drinking tea.


    This time around, I didn''t bring Li Mazi along. I didn''t want him to interrupt me.


    I''m not sure where I got the courage to stand up to this big shot, but I said, "Sir, I''ll tell you now what''s the deal with those prayer beads. The real name of those prayer beads is ''Justice'', and they have the ability to protect and bless their master and their posterity. Of course, that is the basic power. If the owner has done many evil deeds, not only will the prayer beads not protect them, but they will even go as far as retaliating. For example..."


    I gulped. Then, I gritted my teeth and continued, "For example, what is happening to you right now."


    "Nonsense!" The bald old man pounded the table and red at me. "Are you saying that I''vemitted many crimes?! Youngster, you should think carefully before spouting such nonsense. Aren''t you afraid that I might report you for nder?"


    He wasn''t an official for nothing. When he flew into a rage, the pressure emanating from him made me gasp for breath.


    I got intimidated, and my tone couldn''t help but soften. "I''m sorry, but even if you leave the prayer beads to me, there is nothing I can do. However, if you carry them on your body and let me follow you around for 24 hours, I might be able to do something."


    The bald old man looked at me. "Are you sure?"


    "There is arge chance it might work," I said. "But if you don''t believe me, there is nothing I can do."


    The old man hesitated for a short while before saying, "Alright! Tell me, how long will it take you to deal with the prayer beads?"


    I said, "Around one month. Don''t think of it as a long period of time. Even if I were doing my best, this much time would be needed. If you look for someone else, they might not be able to deal with the chanting of scriptures for a lifetime."


    The old man gritted his teeth and said, "Fine, I''ll give you an opportunity. From today onwards, you''ll be my full-time secretary." Then he made a call and told his current secretary to take a month-long vacation.


    Soon, the middle-aged man came into the private room and handed me the keys to a car.


    I said, "If you want me to solve this problem for you, you''ll have to listen to everything I say. Otherwise, it won''t work."


    The old man nodded, "Good, I''ll listen to you."


    I heaved a sigh of relief, "Now I''ll bring you back home, alright?"


    "Go wait for me in the car," the old man said. "I still have a dinner party to attend."


    Then, he turned around and left, heading for another private room.


    I shrugged and went to wait in the car, which was especially for officials.


    Just as I was about to fall asleep, the old man slowly left the hotel and told me to bring him back.


    I asked, "Where are the prayer beads now?" The old man replied, "I have yet to find out."


    I said, "No need to look for them. We can deal with them even without finding out where they are."


    The old man looked at me in puzzlement but didn''t speak further.


    He lived in a residential area, and the decor inside was rather normal. There was no one else there. His family probably all lived in some big vi, and this ce had been specifically prepared to deal with the current situation.


    The old man arranged a room for me on the first floor, while he went to sleep on the second.


    Iy on the bed and went to sleep. If the old man were to hear the chant of Buddhist scriptures again, he would simply wake me up. There was no need for me to stay up all night to observe him.


    While sleeping, I dreamt of the old monk again. He had some roasted chicken in one hand and a palm-leaf fan in the other. He was standing in a dark ce as heughed loudly.


    I asked him out of curiosity, "Are you a ghost or a Buddha?"


    The old monk said with a smile, "If you have a guilty conscience, I''m a ghost. If you have a clean conscience, I''m a Buddha. Tell me, do you have a guilty or clean conscience?"


    I shook my head. "I don''t know."


    He smiled. "That''s a good answer. The people of this world are all attached to material things, and they are neither good nor evil."


    I said in frustration, "Can you not speak in riddles? I don''t understand what you are trying to say!"


    The old monkughed again, then he slowly disappeared from sight. At the same time, I woke up from my dream and stared outside the window in a daze.


    I had more or less understood what the old monk meant. Someone with a clear conscience would stay that way even while facing a real ghost, but someone with a guilty conscience would feel guilty even while facing ordinary people.


    Corrupt officials were a good example. If they heard the sound of a police whistle, they would start sweating.


    The bald old man was someone with a guilty conscience, and for him, the prayer beads were a ''ghost''!

 Chapter 75: Daoji the Living Buddha

    Chapter 75: Daoji the Living Buddha


    Around midnight, the old man knocked on my door. As soon as I opened it, I saw that the old man was covered in sweat. His face was twisted in pain, and he was trying to cover his ears with both hands.


    From the looks of it, the chanting of Buddhist scriptures was echoing in his ears again.


    I made him sit down, then I took a deep breath, smiled and asked, "Mister, do you have a headache?"


    "Nonsense!"


    "If you could use 100,000 renminbi to stay healthy, would you ept?" I asked.


    "Are you ckmailing me?" The old man looked at me as if he was going to eat me alive.


    I waved my hand. "That''s not it. It was just an example."


    The old man clenched his teeth and said after a while, "I would!"


    "Very well. How much money did you collect at today''s dinner party? Return it all," I said. "Consider it the price to buy back your health."


    The old man got angry. "Did you put a bug on me? How did you know that I collected money?"


    I smiled. "The prayer beads told me. A senior monk that follows the correct path resides in the beads, and he keeps an eye on you all the time."


    The old man was dumbfounded. He looked all around, scared. "W-Where is he? Why can''t I see him? You are trying to deceive me, right?"


    I shrugged. "There is no need for me to deceive you. I''m just doing this for your sake. If I really wanted to fool you, I would just make up a story that would be easy for you to believe. I wouldn''t go as far as making you angry."


    Finally, the old man dispiritedly said, "Take 200,000 renminbi from my bank card and send it to this address, alright?"


    He reluctantly took out a bank card and wrote down an address. "Remember, you must act in secret. No one can know about this!"


    I smiled and said, "Be at ease."


    Then I went to look for the ce written on the paper.


    I arrived at a luxurious vi and saw a fatbor contractor. It seemed that he just had a romp in bed with a girl and sweat was streaming down his face.


    When I ced the money on the table, he panicked. "I-Is something the matter? Did the mayor feel that the money wasn''t enough?"


    "It''s not that the money wasn''t enough, but the mayor has finally seen the light. You guys should also wake up and stop doing these things."


    Saying that, I turned around and left under the dumbfounded gaze of thebor contractor.


    When I got back, I discovered that the old man didn''t have a headache anymore and was happily watching TV. When he saw that I was back, his happy face immediately turned ice-cold. "Did you finish the job?"


    "I did as you instructed."


    "Hmph. Actually, even if you hadn''t said anything, I would have returned the money. It''s just that it wasn''t appropriate to refuse him right there. Otherwise, I wouldn''t be giving him face..." the old man exined.


    I hurried to say, "Of course, of course. Mister, I already understand. There is no need for you to exin."


    He snorted and said, "Its good that you understand."


    Then, he went back to sleep.


    Over the next few days, the old man was much more honest and refused to go to several dinner parties. I wasn''t sure if he had sincerely repented or if he was just putting on a show in front of me.


    For the next half a month, the old man behaved himself and worked hard. The ''treatment'' also went well, and he didn''t have any problems sleeping nor had he heard the chanting of Buddhist scriptures again.


    One day, after getting off work, the old man looked for me. "I''ve already repented for my actions and turned a new leaf. I''m also deeply ashamed of what I''ve done in the past. Such being the case, that matter rted to the prayer beads should also be resolved, right?"


    I smiled and said, "As long as you keep walking on this path, there should be no problems."


    The old man heaved a sigh of relief and patted my shoulder. "I''ve felt truly free from worries for these few days I''ve been with you. I''ll consider this as an important lesson and work hard to be a good official!"


    Iughed. "That''s the right mindset. Moreover, Mister, I was also getting tired of following you around and wish to head back to do business. As long as you remain incorruptible, you won''t have to worry about the chanting of Buddhist scriptures ever again."


    I thought that the matter would end there, but I was wrong.


    A few dayster, in the evening, the middle-aged man barged into my shop again. This time, there were also two police officers with him.


    I was startled and hurried to ask, "What''s the matter now?"


    The middle-aged man dragged me to a room and red at me. "Didn''t you say that the mayor wouldn''t have to worry about the chanting of Buddhist scriptures ever again? Last night, he heard those voices again! Moreover, a blood clot formed in his head, and he is now in intensive care. Now tell me, who is at fault here?"


    I couldn''t help but sneer. It seemed that the old man was unable to resist and fell into temptation again.


    Still, this middle-aged man was angry. If I talked back, things would just get more difficult for me...


    Therefore I suppressed my anger and said, "How about this... bring me to meet your boss first. I need to get a clear understanding of what happened before acting."


    The middle-aged man and I got into a car and headed to the hospital.


    When we got there, the old man was already out of danger and had been moved to a VIP room. When he saw me, he panicked and it took him a long time to catch his breath.


    I secretly sneered and thought to myself, Why didn''t this corrupt official simply die? It would have saved me a lot of trouble!


    The old man asked, "I... I followed your instructions to the letter! Why didn''t it work?"


    I took a deep breath and nced at the middle-aged man. "Can you go out? I need to talk to this Mister alone."


    The middle-aged man looked at me in puzzlement but still left the room after the old man nodded.


    I took a chair and sat in front of the old man. "You didn''t do anything that could possibly weigh on your conscience?"


    "I... I swear. I didn''t do anything." The old man took an oath.


    I looked into his eyes and took the prayer beads out of my pocket.


    After seeing the prayer beads, the old man was excited. "Didn''t you say that you couldn''t find the beads? How did you find them?"


    I smiled. Actually, I had retrieved the prayer beads the very first night I stayed in the house of the old man thanks to the instructions of the monk. However, I didn''t return them because I knew that the old man would simply destroy them if he discovered that he didn''t have a way out.


    Since I strayed from the right path before, I had to make up for it now. I kept the prayer beads with me and wished for the old man to truly repent for his sins.


    However, it seemed that he hadn''t suffered enough.


    "Give me the prayer beads," the old man said, clearly excited. "I know how to deal with them."


    "Hmm?" I deliberately ced the beads close to my ear, as if I was listening to a voice inside. After a short while, I handed the beads to the old man. "They told me that you want to destroy them."


    The hand of the old man stiffened, and the prayer beads fell to the ground.


    I picked them up again and pointed at the blood I had applied on it beforehand. "They told me that you''ll face a deadly cmity soon. Moreover, justice resides in people''s hearts, destroying them is pointless."


    The old man fell into despair and closed his eyes. "What does he want?"


    "The problem doesn''t lie with the prayer beads but with you," I said. "You have to realize your mistakes and repent if you want to save yourself."


    "I know." The old man looked at the ceiling in low spirits. "You can go. I know what I have to do..."


    I nodded and left, carrying the prayer beads away with me.


    Hopefully, he would be able to realize his mistakes this time!


    A few dayster, Li Mazi told me that the secretary of the old man was arrested due to epting bribes behind the old man''s back. Someone had secretly reported him to the authorities.


    I fell silent. No wonder the old man dared to vow that he hadn''t epted any money. He had used his secretary instead of doing it in person. He felt that this trick would fool the prayer beads, but he was wrong.


    Some timeter, the bald old man also turned himself in. He told the police about all the crimes he hadmitted, implicating several members of the local government and causing a ruckus.


    Later, I went to visit him and discovered that he looked much better than before.


    He waspletely different from his previous self, who talked like a bureaucrat all the time.


    The first thing that I asked him, "Why did you turn yourself in?"


    The old man faintly smiled. "I dreamt of that senior monk you mentioned."


    I was surprised. "What did he tell you?"


    The old man sighed. "He asked me what kind of life I wanted to live. I told him that I wanted a simple life; drinking tea, ying chess, and so on. I wanted to leave politics behind and take a break. After that, maybe do some gardening and find a bunch of friends."


    "He told me that those were things that money couldn''t buy, and that my heart had been corrupted by wealth."


    "When I woke up, my heart was filled with guilt and the words the monk had said kept echoing in my mind. A few days ago, I finally saw the light and decided to give a call to the Disciplinary Committee."


    "When I let go of the burden in my heart and exposed all my crimes, I felt much better. Although I''m now in jail, each day seems to have meaning. I''ve never felt so satisfied in my life."


    The old man looked at me and smiled.


    Then, by chance, I learned of the origin of the Buddhist prayer beads.


    During the Southern Song Dynasty, there was a strange monk named Daoji. Daoji had no constraint, and he ate meat and drank wine whenever he wished, saying that meat and wine would eventually flow out of his body but the Buddha in his heart would not. As a result, he got himself kicked out of the temple.


    It was at that time that he realized the hardships of the mortal world. He traveled from ce to ce and helped the local poption deal with their troubles. Moreover, he wasn''t someone who would shy from helping victims of injustice.


    Whenmoners saw Daoji, they would feel as though they had seen a living Buddha. But when corrupt officials saw him, they would feel as though they had seen the devil. As a sign of respect, people eventually started calling him ''Daoji the Living Buddha''.


    The Buddhist prayer beads he always carried with him were known as ''Justice''.


    In the hearts of each and every one of us, there is a Daoji, and only by doing good and charitable deeds will we have a clear conscience.

 Chapter 76: Trip to the Dai Clan

    Chapter 76: Trip to the Dai n


    After this matter, I added another rule to the three rules about otherworldly items that my grandfather had left me.


    ''Never have anything to do with matters rted to politics!''


    Sometimeter, the man in the Kumamon t-shirt also dropped by and said, "Thest time, the reason I left you that task was to give you a lesson. In the capacity of a merchant of otherworldly items, you mustn''t let money cloud your mind."


    "Because only death awaits those who are too greedy in this business!"


    His words moved me. He had no obligation to help me, but he still did.


    I wanted him to stay and do business with me, but he told me that he was ustomed to wandering from ce to ce. If he stayed in one ce for too long, he might lose his way, so he politely refused my offer.


    He didn''t even stay for aplete night before leaving.


    He is truly a mysterious fellow!I gazed at his back as he was leaving and shook my head.


    Time passed very quickly, and in the blink of an eye, it was already winter. I looked outside the window, andrge snowkes had covered the tree branches, shrouding the world in white. My mood was especially good.


    I sat beside the firece, poured some tea, and leaned against the chair. I felt really satisfied with how things were.


    Although I hadn''t done any business, I was better off without being too greedy. I had no n of opening the shop this year, and I was satisfied as long as I had a bunch of friends, some wine, and a firece.


    Li Mazi was also bored. He grabbed two wild roosters and came over, using my gas stove to cook them. Then, he urged me to go to buy some shelled peanuts and sd that would go well with the wine.


    I was in high spirits and drank until I started feeling somewhat dizzy.


    To my surprise, Yin Xinyue also came over. She wore an overcoat and running shoes. Her figure was as good as always, except for her hands, which were all red due to the cold.


    I grabbed her hands and pulled them to my bosom to warm them up. "Didn''t youe here by car?"


    She smiled and exined, "It''s very rare to see snow in my hometown, so I decided to walk all the way here to enjoy the scenery. I stumbled a few times, but it was well worth it."


    Both Li Mazi and I were aware that Yin Xinyue came from Southern China.


    When Southern China was mentioned, Li Mazi suddenly got excited. "I''ve heard that the weather there always feels like spring. How about we spend the winter in Southern China? While at it, we can also try to enter the market there. Who knows, we might get our hands on a few treasures."


    His words moved me. Although the snowscape in Northern China was great, seeing some spring-like scenery during this season wouldn''t be bad either.


    After making up our minds, we sprang into action.


    Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi returned home to ready their luggage, agreeing that we would meet at the antique shop in two hours.


    However, I ran from one room to the other without knowing what to pack. I had no idea what I should bring over there.


    Li Mazi also came back empty-handed and somewhat embarrassed, saying, "Southern China is rather hot. I don''t think there will be a need to bring down coats or the like with us, right?"


    Two hourster, a taxi stopped at the entrance of the shop, and Yin Xinyue alighted while lugging several bags of different sizes.


    Li Mazi and I forced a smile and hurried to help her. All the bags were filled with clothing, and there were even two stuffed animals. Her stuff alone would probably be enough to fill the trunk of Li Mazi''s car.


    Yin Xinyue smiled and said, "I want to bring you to see the Peacock Dance of the Dai minority."


    After inquiring, we discovered that Yin Xinyue was part of the Dai minority, and her hometown was in the Xishuangbanna Prefecture in Yunnan Province. The discovery made us very happy, and we were looking forward to seeing Yin Xinyue perform the dance for us.


    The three of us took turns driving and drove at full speed after reaching the highway. However, it still took us two days and nights to reach the border of Yunnan Province.


    Our excitement quickly dwindled as we started to get exhausted due to the long journey. I suggested to first look for a ce where we could rest.


    But Yin Xinyue, who felt nostalgic, insisted on stopping only after reaching her native ce.


    Left with no choice, I could only keep driving.


    After getting off the highway, we got on a provincial highway, then a county road, and finally a vige road.


    The trip had truly worn me down, and even my butt felt numb. I was so tired that I could barely keep my eyes open and felt the whole world was spinning.


    However, I couldn''t stop. If I stopped, I doubted I would find the strength to set out again.


    When we were ten kilometers away from Yin Xinyue''s vige, I saw what seemed to be a person lying on the road.


    I was startled and quickly braked.


    However, after the car stopped, that figure was nowhere to be seen.Was I just hallucinating?


    After the scare I had just gotten, I was much more clear-headed and kept driving.


    Then, after a short while, I started to get sleepy again, with my eyelids bing extremely heavy.


    It was right at that time that I saw a white figure dashing alongside the road. This time I was able to see things clearly. It was a bald woman wearing white clothes with her back toward us. Suddenly, she walked in the middle of the road andy there.


    Since I was afraid of running her over, I quickly stepped on the brakes, waking Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue in the process.


    After they were startled awake, the two asked me, "What''s the matter? It''s not the first time you suddenly braked on this road."


    I took a deep breath and exined, "It seems someone is trying to stage an ident to scam us. Better be careful."


    Then, I prepared to go out and check. Since we had a recording device in our car, I wasn''t too worried.


    Before I could get out, Li Mazi grabbed me and said, "You said someone tried to stage an ident, but there is no one ahead..."


    I opened my eyes wide and nced forward. Yet, the woman in white had disappeared.


    Just what''s happening...? I can understand having a hallucination once, but twice in such a short time?


    What I found even strange was that I had seen the woman very clearly, but she was nowhere to be seen now.


    I forced a smile and had Li Mazi take my ce, while I went to rest in the back.


    A short while after I had closed my eyes, the car suddenly stopped, and my head bumped into the back of the drivers seat due to the inertia.


    I opened my eyes and shouted, "Li Mazi, are you trying to kill me?!"


    Li Mazi replied in a trembling voice, "Little Brother Zhang, wake up! It''s not the time to be sleeping!"


    He then locked the doors of the car and kept trembling nonstop.


    Seeing his appearance, I guessed he might have seen something ahead. I got up to check.


    Li Mazi said while stuttering, "I-I just saw a female ghost in white clothes! It was definitely a ghost, her face waspletely nk with no eyes, mouth, or nose! I''m really scared right now!"


    "Don''t talk nonsense," I said angrily. "How can something like that appear out of nowhere?"


    I looked outside the window, and it was pitch-ck, with big trees on both sides of the narrow road. Everything looked gloomy, and the blowing wind resembled the wailing of women.


    I told Li Mazi to drink some water and recount everything in detail.


    Li Mazi recounted, "I was driving the car when I suddenly saw a woman in white appear in the middle of the road. I didn''t have time to brake and ran her over."


    The woman finally hit the windshield of the car, and it was at that time that Li Mazi saw her face, which was identical to that of a mannequin.


    I took a look at the front of the car and the windshield, but they were both fine. I didn''t feel like anyone had bumped into the car!


    I was likewise scared. Thus, I asked Yin Xinyue, "Do you know what''s happening? Does your Dai n have some strange way to wee outsiders?"


    Yin Xinyue was also frightened, and her face was pale. She said between sobs, "B-Brother Zhang, this isn''t the time to tell jokes! We should make haste and leave this ce. Every year, a lot of traffic idents take ce on this road."


    Li Mazi was too scared to keep driving and didn''t want to bump into that female ghost again. Therefore, I had no choice but to drive.


    Yin Xinyue was still worried, and she told me to go slower. In the meantime, she gave a call to her Fourth Uncle, asking him to pick us up.


    I agreed with her suggestion. It was better to have a local show us the way when in the territory of a national minority like the Dai n.


    I slowly drove the car while carefully keeping an eye on both sides of the road.


    The atmosphere was very tense, and not a single person could be seen on the remote dirt road. The big trees on both sides produced rattling sounds, and from time to time, some small animals would get out of the woods and sh past the car.


    Even if this ce isn''t haunted, it''s definitely scary...


    Just as I was in deep thought, a light appeared ahead, and I stopped the car.


    Seeing the light, Yin Xinyue heaved a sigh of relief. It was her Fourth Uncle.


    The vehicle ahead of us turned out to be a tractor, and an old man with a scarf wrapped around his head sat on it. He looked to be around fifty years old.


    Although his face was covered with wrinkles and his skin was dark, he looked very healthy.Is this a distinctive characteristic of the Dai minority...?


    Since it was someone on our side, we approached him without worry and got out of the car to meet him.


    The people from the Dai n were really hospitable, and the first thing Fourth Uncle did was to ask us how our trip was. After learning about the strange things we had encountered on our way here, Fourth Uncle took out a handful of ash from his pocket and sprinkled it around our car, forming a circle. Then, he brought us to his house.


    I was confused, unsure as to what he had just done.


    Yin Xinyue said in a low voice, "It''s a custom of our Dai n. ording to Fourth Uncle, that ghost blocking the road was pestering us, and he is using this method to frighten it away."

 Chapter 77: Help

    Chapter 77: Help


    I took a deep breath. I hadn''t expected that there would be road-blocking ghosts here.


    After arriving at Fourth Uncle''s ce, Li Mazi and I kept yawning. We had been driving for two days and two nights, and we were really exhausted. Fourth Uncle told us to sleep in the main room, and no matter how much we insisted, he wouldnt let us sleep in the side rooms.


    Yin Xinyue said with a smile, "You don''t need to worry too much about it. This is another custom of the Dai n. Guestse first. If you don''t agree, Fourth Uncle will feel that he didn''t treat you guys well enough."


    Since there was no other choice, we moved to the main room.


    However, I couldn''t fall asleep after lying on the bed, and the reason was the beautiful scenery in this remote ce. Outside the window was a clear sky and the bright moon, as well as a row of houses projected over the water. It felt like a dream.


    I was enthralled by the scenery, and Li Mazi also sighed with emotion, saying, "After I save some money, I''ll marry a woman of the Dai n and settle here. It would be really worth it to live in this ce."


    I snorted. "Hmpf, were you looking for some excuse to bring up the girls of the Dai n? I don''t really care if you want to look for a wife from the Dai n, but you better tell her that you already have children. If you lie and mess up, Yin Xinyue wouldn''t be able to show her face in the vige anymore!"


    Li Mazi replied, "Am I really that despicable in your eyes? Also, do you really think that I need to resort to such tricks to get a girl? All that matters are my qualities, alright?"


    His confidence is really something...


    I slept until noon, and when I got up, I smelled a fragrant aroma. My belly started rumbling, and as I left my room, I saw a table outside with several people surrounding it. Fourth Uncle was also there, and he was discussing in a low voice with the others.


    After seeing me, Yin Xinyue came over and asked, "Howe you two sleep so much? Fourth Uncle has been waiting for you since morning!"


    I felt rather embarrassed and quickly apologized to Fourth Uncle. He said with a smile, "You must be starving, right? Let''s serve the meal first."


    After Fourth Uncle briefly introduced the other people at the table, we discovered that they were all elders of the Dai n. Since some friends of Yin Xinyue hade to visit, Fourth Uncle decided to invite the elders as well.


    They were all very warm, which made me feel awkward.


    However, the awkwardness slowly disappeared as we ate, and I started to enjoy the feast.


    The food was excellent, and there were several dishes I had never tasted before. The ones that left the deepest impressions were the grilled carp, fried pineapple in bamboo-tube-cooked rice. These dishes were very hard to find in restaurants.


    Li Mazi and I ate until we were full, then Yin Xinyue suggested going out for a stroll. I readily agreed and refueled the car, setting out again.


    We were having so much fun that wepletely forgot about that ghost blocking our path yesterday.


    We went on a scenic tour, catching several fishes in a small river nearby. Yin Xinyue looked at us and shook her head. "The vigers are already tired of the food, and yet you treat it like some kind of treasure."


    Li Mazi said with a smile, "This seems like a good opportunity to do business! Those ingredients can sell for a lot of money. Why don''t we open apany specialized in supplying ingredients to big restaurants?"


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. "We can''t do this. This ce is like the granary of the vige. If you take all the ingredients here away, wouldn''t it be like stealing their food? Aren''t you afraid of suffering retribution?"


    Li Mazi blushed. "I was just joking.


    On our way back, we looked somewhat tired. As such, Yin Xinyue said, "You guys better not disappoint thedies of the vige, because there is an event in the evening."


    I asked out of curiosity, "What kind of event are you talking about?"


    Yin Xinyue replied, "In the evening, my childhood friends will hold a dance to wee you guys."


    When she mentioned the dancing session, Li Mazi got excited. "This evening, invite only the women but not the men. When the time is right, I''ll perform a strip dance to broaden the horizons of those girls!"


    I was also a little excited. Since after we hade here, we hadn''t seen any girls from the Dai n. How beautiful would Yin Xinyue look after wearing the clothing of her n? I was really looking forward to it.


    While eating, Li Mazi was distracted. He kept looking outside, seemingly waiting for something.


    Even an idiot could guess what he was thinking. As such, Yin Xinyue said, "At this time, all the girls are in their homes having dinner, so no one wille out. They''ll start gathering around 9:30 PM."


    After the meal, we started chatting with Fourth Uncle, and the topic of conversation unknowingly shifted to road-blocking ghosts.


    Fourth Uncle told us that road-blocking ghosts had existed in this ce for a long time. idents had been happening on that road since he could recall.


    I hurried to ask, "Didn''t you ask an expert to take a look at the road?"


    Fourth Uncle sighed. "The vige tried to look for several sorcerers, but none of those guys was the real deal. Not only that, but they also cheated us of our money..."


    ording to what their elders had said, an old Buddhist nun once died on that road. She fell from the mountain and rolled to her death onto the road. Since then, the road stopped being a quiet ce.


    The old people in the vige were sure that the Buddhist nun was looking for a scapegoat for her death, and that was why she was harming the people on the road.


    I faintly smiled and felt that things weren''t so simple. If the old Buddhist nun just wanted to find a scapegoat, she could kill a few people to relieve her hatred.


    However, despite therge number of idents, Forth Uncle told us that no one had died.


    While chatting, we heard the distant sweetughter of women getting closer. Li Mazi sprang to his feet, clearly excited.


    It seemed it was time for the dance by the girls of the Dai n!


    Fourth Uncle patted my shoulder and said, "Go have fun. Don''t worry too much about this matter."


    I nodded and headed towards Yin Xinyue''s room.


    Then, I saw more than ten girls in Dai clothing headed in our direction. In the light of the bonfire, their faces looked bright red and they wore a lot of silver essories that shone brightly on their heads. They were all young and pretty, and I couldn''t help but be infatuated after seeing them.


    Li Mazi had already run to greet them.


    Yin Xinyue looked at me while smiling brightly. "Brother Zhang, wait here for a moment. I''ll change my clothes ande back."


    Then, she ran off. And when she came back, I was stunned.


    She wore colorful clothes that wrapped tightly around her body, and her stunning figure looked even better than before. Although there was no skin exposed, she looked extremely alluring.


    She wore a flowery hat on her head, which made her small face look even more delicate. Her bright eyes were very charming, and her red lips gently curved in a smile. I was totally bewitched by the scene.


    "Am I pretty?" Yin Xinyue arrived in front of me and asked. "Come, let''s go to the dance."


    I nodded absent-mindedly as Yin Xinyue''s graceful figure filled my whole mind.


    The girls surrounded the bonfire and started the wee dance. I was moved by their disy. I studied their movements and joined the dance as well.


    They were very warm, and my shyness was soon blown away.


    When we were enjoying ourselves, I faintly heard a voiceing from the vige road. "Help!"


    I pricked up my ears but didn''t hear anything afterward.


    At first, I thought that I was just hearing things, but not too long after, I heard that voice again.


    This time, the voice was very clear, and everyone present heard it.


    One of the girls eximed, "This seems like Elder Brother Yan Liang''s voice! Today, his family drove the tractor to the town because the children had to see the doctor."


    I hurried to say, "You guys get in touch with Fourth Uncle. Yin Xinyue, Li Mazi, and I will go to help him."


    Then, I grabbed the duo and headed outside the vige.


    Li Mazi was in a bad mood. "Damn, the beauties literally slipped from our hands."


    We quickly reached the dirt road outside the vige and saw that a tractor had crashed into a big tree. A man was pressed beneath the wheel of the tractor, badly injured.


    After seeing us, he immediately called for help.


    I gasped. Seeing the situation, I wasn''t sure if his legs, which were under the wheel, could be saved.


    The three of us joined forces and pushed the tractor aside. Then, the pale-looking man grabbed my hand and said, "Save... Save my child..."


    "Your child?" I asked.


    The man pointed at the water channel on the side before closing his eyes, having passed out.


    Li Mazi switched on the headlights of the tractor.


    The scene I saw in the water channel thanks to the light shocked me!

 Chapter 78: Cutting the Tail of the Snake with a Sharp Hatchet

    Chapter 78: Cutting the Tail of the Snake with a Sharp Hatchet


    I wasn''t sure where it hade from, but a huge python, with a body as thick as a bucket, was lying asleep in the water channel. Lying on the back of the snake were a woman and a child, both unconscious.


    If the python was startled awake, it would definitely eat us alive!


    I told Li Mazi to turn off the engine of the tractor.


    At the same time, I hinted to the duo not to make a sound and stay where they were, keeping their eyes open. As for me, I went to look for Fourth Uncle. I didn''t want him to bring arge number of people and wake up the python.


    It was lucky that I intercepted him midway. He had brought with him a lot of young members of the Dai n, and they were causing a huge ruckus.


    When I told him about the big python, Fourth Uncle gnashed his teeth with anger. "It''s that annoying creature again!"


    From his words, it seemed that Fourth Uncle knew about that beast. As such, I asked, "Fourth Uncle, can you tell me about that snake''s origin?"


    Fourth Uncle told the youngsters to return to the vige and proceeded toward the ident scene along with me. Along the way, he told me what the deal with the python was.


    It turned out that the snake was the pet that the road-blocking ghost had been raising. Every time the ghost made its appearance, the python would also show up. After the road-blocking ghost had killed someone, it would quietly swallow the corpse.


    Moreover, the strangest thing about the snake was that it would eat only dead people. If it met someone on the verge of death, it would still leave them alone.


    I asked Fourth Uncle, "Didn''t you say that no one ever died on this road? How can you tell that it was the python that ate the person?"


    Fourth Uncle sneered. "The python made its appearance at such a time... what could the reason be if not to eat the corpse?"


    When we hurried back, the huge python was still sleeping in the ditch, while the woman and the child were still unconscious.


    Fourth Uncle took out an axe and prepared to jump in the ditch. However, I quickly stopped him. "I feel that it''s too dangerous. That python looks very strong, and it won''t be easy to deal with it."


    Fourth Uncle waved his hand at me, gesturing at me to calm down. The python was scared of living people, and the more one showed off, the more the creature would be afraid of them.


    I nodded in surprise, having no choice but to let Fourth Uncle go down.


    Fourth Uncle slowly approached the snake. Although he made a lot of noise on his way, the python didn''t move. It looked as though it wasn''t aware of anything.


    The python also seemed to be shedding its skin since there was a whitish, disgusting-looking snakeskin nearby.


    It was said that snakes were the hungriest while shedding their skin. As such, I was afraid that it would suddenly wake up, open its mouth, and gobble up Fourth Uncle.


    The brave Fourth Uncle quickly reached the woman and the child and handed them over to us.


    As for him, he didn''t climb out of the ditch but angrily stared at the python. He raised his axe high, ready to cut off the head of the snake.


    My heart was about to jump out of my chest. We had been lucky that the snake didn''t create any trouble for us, but now, Fourth Uncle was taking the initiative to pick a fight with it!


    I instinctively tried to stop Fourth Uncle. However, he ignored me and chopped with his axe.


    The sharp axe left a deep cut on the body of the snake, and a lot of white liquid flowed out of the wound.


    The strike immediately woke up the snake, which hissed loudly. It twisted its body and raised its huge head.


    Fourth Uncleughed like a madman and aimed at the head of the python again.


    The strike was strong. Were it to hit the snake, it would definitely cleave its head into two.


    However, the snake wasn''t to be underestimated. Its head quickly moved, hitting Fourth Uncle''s body.


    The speed at which it moved was unbelievable!


    Fourth Uncle was sent flying with his body upside down, falling hard in the ditch.


    The snake swept us with its gaze and was seemingly scared of our numbers. As such, it turned around and prepared to run.


    However, Fourth Uncle wasn''t willing to let this opportunity go. He endured the pain, got up and grabbed the tail of the python, roaring, "What are you waiting for?!" Quicklye down and help me kill it!"


    I finally came to my senses.


    Although I had no n to hurt the snake earlier, the other party was now our enemy. Therefore, I didn''t show any mercy and jumped into the ditch. I grabbed the axe and shot toward Fourth Uncle, aiming at the snake''s tail with the sharp axe.


    The tail was instantly cut off.


    The snake''s body twisted due to the pain, and without waiting for us to attack again, it fled and disappeared into the night.


    Fourth Uncle patted my shoulder, pleased. "Young man, you were very brave, definitely worthy of being an honored guest of our Dai n!"


    I looked worriedly at Fourth Uncle. "Fourth Uncle, what if the snake returns to take revenge on us? I feel like we should be careful over the next few days."


    Fourth Uncle said with a smile, "Be at ease! I''m sure it won''t dare toe out for a while. We just cut off its tail and it will take several months to regrow.


    I nodded, deep in thought.


    Afterward, we put Elder Brother Yan Liang''s family on the tractor. Fourth Uncle drove it, and we headed back to the vige in search of a doctor.


    Since there wasn''t enough space on the tractor, Yin Xinyue and I had no choice but to head back on foot.


    I looked at the gloomy forest with a serious expression and asked Yin Xinyue, "When you were a kid, did you often bump into snakes and the like?"


    Yin Xinyue nodded.


    I continued asking, "And did you evere across any snakes that only ate dead people?"


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. "No. Snakes are cruel animals, and they are especially fond of swallowing living creatures. As such, that python is definitely strange..."


    I furrowed my brows. "In hindsight, if the python hadn''t been there, the mother and the child would have likely died."


    Yin Xinyue asked in surprise, "How so?"


    "Do you see the water in the ditch?" I exined, "If the mother and the child had fallen in the ditch while still unconscious, they would have drowned to death."


    "The python acted as a cushion and their lives."


    Yin Xinyue stared at the ditch and looked at me in puzzlement. "Brother Zhang, are you telling me that the python didn''t want to eat them, but to save them instead?"


    I nodded.


    Yin Xinyue couldn''t restrain herughter. "Please stop joking, hahaha! Have you ever heard of a python saving people? It''s very likely that the python snuck into the vige more than once to eat the poultry or injure the vigers, so how can it suddenly be kind enough to save people?"


    I said, "Whatever, it''s not like we know how a python thinks. Let''s head back."


    On our way back, Yin Xinyue repeatedly urged me to be extra careful over the next few days and let Fourth Uncle apany me if I were to go out. ording to her, snakes were cruel animals that bore grudges. Since I had cut off its tail, there was no way it would let me off.


    Yin Xinyue kept talking, but I didn''t really pay attention to her words. At that time, my mind was upied with the matter rted to the python and the road-blocking ghost.


    The road-blocking ghost harms people, while the python saves them... are the two of them enemies?


    I really hoped to help the Dai n get to the bottom of this matter.


    When we got back, Elder Brother Yan Liang and his family were already awake, so I seized the opportunity to ask them what had happened.

 Chapter 79: Warrior of the Dai Clan

    Chapter 79: Warrior of the Dai n


    Elder Brother Yan Liang clenched his teeth and said, "It was that road-blocking ghost again! I was driving when I suddenly saw a woman in white lying in the middle of the road. I panicked and my first thought was to run her over, but I didn''t expect a giant python toe out of the ditch and hit me with its tail, making the tractor crash into a big tree."


    Then, he looked solemnly at Fourth Uncle. "Fourth Uncle, we have to find a way to deal with this matter. That road-blocking ghost has already caused enough damage to the vige! All the investors were frightened away, and we are getting poorer and poorer..."


    Fourth Uncle squatted at the entrance and took out a cigarette. After he finished smoking, he threw the cigarette butt on the ground and said, "It seems we have to resort to violence! You just think about recovering from your injuries. Tomorrow, we''ll gather the vigers and go look for that snake."


    "Our honored guest here cut off its tail, and I''m sure it didn''t go far. We can easily find it by following the blood trail."


    However, I had the feeling that Fourth Uncle was jumping the gun. Wasn''t our top priority to determine whether the python was friend or foe?


    If a python hurt other animals, it could only be for one reasonhunger. However, not only the python didn''t eat those people, but it even saved them. There was definitely more to this.


    I wanted to discuss this matter further with Fourth Uncle, but Yin Xinyue grabbed the hem of my clothes and shook her head.


    I knew that the people of the Dai n were riled up and that I would be isted if I said too much. Therefore, I could only swallow back the words I was about to say.


    Fourth Uncle and the others finished their meeting and went from house to house to notify the others. The n was to gather all the young vigers tomorrow morning and go hunting for the python in the forest.


    They were convinced that the python was the physical manifestation of the road-blocking ghost, and as long as they killed it the ghost would also disappear.


    Since I had cut the tail of the python, Fourth Uncle publicly gave me a silver medal with the words ''Men Xi'' engraved on it.


    Yin Xinyueter exined that the silver medal was only for the bravest person in the vige. It belonged to one of the ancestors of the Dai n and had been passed down from generation to generation. The words ''Men Xi'' meant ''Warrior'' when tranted into modern Chinese. ording to the legend, that ancestor was a hunter and he once killed an undead that caused trouble to the vige.


    The vigers held him in high esteem, and they forged this silver medal as a gift to him. Later, this medal was passed down from generation to generation.


    I felt guilty carrying the medal, and I was angry at myself for being rash and hurting the python earlier.


    I pondered for the whole day, but I was unable toe up with an idea. When I woke up the next day, I felt dizzy.


    Upon opening my eyes, I saw that Li Mazi was ring at me while holding colorful flowers, several clothes of the Dai n, and a small bag.


    I couldn''t help butugh as I asked, "Are you going to worship Buddha so early in the morning? What are you doing with all that stuff?"


    Li Mazi cursed at me, "Little Brother Zhang, you''re going overboard now! Is Yin Xinyue not enough for you? Now you even want to steal my woman?"


    I was puzzled and thus asked Li Mazi, "What are you talking about?"


    He cast aside the things he was holding and paid me no more attention.


    Later, I discovered that I had be the hero of every girl in the Dai ncourtesy of the silver medal I was awarded. The girls there liked neither handsome boys nor rich men, but they loved warriors.


    As a result, Yin Xinyue also started to get jealous, stating that I was really good at picking up girls. I didn''t have the time to get into it with her, so I told her not to overthink things. I would return the gifts and tell them that I had a girlfriend. Yin Xinyue said, "That''s more like it."


    When I exited the room, I saw a dozen young men standing at the entrance. They had bare arms and were holding all types of weapons, hoes, hunting knives, and so on.


    Fourth Uncle stood at the front of the group. "I won''t bother listing all the evil things that the python has done to our vige. All of you should already know..."


    "Hmph, let''s kill it!" someone shouted. "That thing ate my rabbits!"


    "My grandfather once got into an ident due to that road-blocking ghost. Now, he''s unable to go to the fields and work!"


    "When I was a kid, I saw that python slip into a coffin and eat the corpse inside..."


    Fourth Uncle waved his hand, indicating for everyone to calm down. "What we are going to do this time is very dangerous. If any of you don''t want to go, you can leave now. I won''t force you toe."


    However, none of those present budged.


    "Very well! Lets make things clear. As soon as you see that thing, go for the kill. Otherwise, it might eat you. Don''t show any mercy, got it?"


    "Got it!" The young men repeated one after another.


    Then Fourth Uncle turned to look at me. He walked over and patted my shoulder. "Warrior, you can alsoe with us. You are the first to truly injure the python, a hero to our people."


    At the same time, he gave me a special hunting knife of the Dai n.


    I knew that I could not back down. If I decided not to go, the people present would surely fly into a rage.


    I had no choice but to ept the hunting knife.


    Everyone was looking at me with gazes full of admiration.


    I coughed and said, "That python is very dangerous, and I feel it would be best to prepare something to scare it off. If things go out of control, we can force it to flee, which is still better than suffering casualties."


    Fourth Uncle said, "Don''t worry, we are prepared. We have realgar powder and German shepherds with us. Do you feel that there is still something missing?"


    "Maybe torches? Did you prepare any?" I asked.


    "Ah, silly me!" Fourth Uncle smacked his forehead. "You''re right. Snakes are most afraid of fire. You guys head back to get some torches. If things get out of control, we can burn the snake on the spot."


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Luckily Fourth Uncle listened to my words.


    I had no intention of harming the python, and this was the reason I asked them to bring torches. Snakes were afraid of fire, so it would definitely run away as soon as it saw using at it with torches.


    Given how fast the python was, it would be very difficult for us to catch up to it.


    After preparations wereplete, we set out, arriving at the dirt road at the entrance of the vige. There, we started following the traces the python had left while escaping.


    Even though it was daytime, entering the nearby luxuriant forest was enough to make one shudder. The trees were taller than what I had initially imagined, and the deeper we went, the taller the trees.


    The lighting was scarce even though it was daytime. And the dew and the morning fog furtherplicated our trip.


    We followed the blood trail and entered the depths of the forest. However, the trail got fainter as we advanced,pletely disappearing at some point.


    In my heart, I was hoping to not find any clues.


    However, Fourth Uncle was an expert when it came to catching snakes, and he knew their habits. Hey down and sniffed carefully. Then, he told us to keep moving forward. The smell was still fresh, which meant the python was nearby.


    I started to get uneasy. I didn''t expect Fourth Uncle to be that skilled. He was able to find the snake''s trail just from the smell.


    Unfortunately, our chances of finding the python had increased now...


    Everyone except me was excited.


    I was well-aware of how dangerous pythons could be. I once read online that a python had easily killed two animal keepers in a foreign country.


    Unfortunately, things didn''t go as I hoped. As we followed the trail and entered the depths of the forest, Fourth Uncle crouched and sniffed again. Then, he found the carcass of a hare in a nearby patch of grass.


    The carcass had been torn into two. Fourth Uncle examined the wound and said in excitement, "It was the python! The wound matches a python''s bite!"


    Everyone prepared for battle. They held their weapons tight and started to search for the snake''s hiding ce.

 Chapter 80: Soul Ferrying

    Chapter 80: Soul Ferrying


    Still, we were unable to find anything even after searching for a while.


    Just as everyone was losing hope, the wind blew and we heard a rustling sound from above; it was the sound of tree leaves.


    We instinctively raised our heads and spotted a multicolored python twining around the branches above. The python was looking down at us, its me-red tongue snaking out. While coupled with the rustling sound, the ce looked spectral.


    Seeing the python, people screamed and picked up stones from the ground, throwing them at the snake.


    The Dai n''s members were skilled archers and good at using throwing weapons. Even if they were using stones, their shots were unerringly urate.


    The python found the pain hard to bear. The tree had also started to sway, which made it hard for it to keep its bnce.


    Fourth Uncle roared, "Quick, cut the tree! Everyone, prepare your torches and get ready to burn the snake to death!"


    The vigers sprang into action, surrounding the tree. The youngsters picked up their hatchets and started to cut down the tree. As for the others, they kept guard, waiting for the python to fall.


    They had torches and gunpowder with them. If they sprinkled it on the python''s body and ignited it, the beast would have nowhere to run no matter how strong it was.


    It was all my fault, and I really regretted telling them to bring the torches.


    The python seemed to have sensed what was going to happen. It anxiously twisted on the big tree, trying to dodge the attacks from below. However, there were simply too many people, and it wasn''t able to dodge all the stones.


    As the tree was about to fall, the python arched its body and shot toward a nearby tree like an arrow.


    As the snake shot across the sky, it felt as though it was flying, that it would grow ws and whiskers, turn into a dragon, and fly into the clouds.


    However, it was a shame that what really happened wasn''t that cool. Thanks to its explosive power, the snake was indeed able to fly for a bunch of meters and reach another tree. It arched its body and slid onto the vine entwining the tree, quickly fleeing for its life.


    The vigers refused to let it go. They screamed and pursued.


    I even heard Fourth Uncle shout. "That python will soon turn into a spirit and gain the ability to fly! If we give it more time, the transformation will beplete, and our vige will greatly suffer!"


    Listening to his words, everyone went all-out. I thought of saying something to stop them, but my voice was drowned out amidst their battle cries. I had no choice but to give up.


    Moreover, it wasn''t like they would believe me even if I tried to persuade them.


    The python wasn''t too fast, but it looked very impressive as it continuously slithered between the branches.


    Soon, I realized that it was weakening, as its speed was getting slower and slower. It seemed that it wasn''t going to hold on for much longer.


    Everybody cheered as the snake got weaker. Atst, the python failed totch onto the next branch as it shot across the sky, crashing to the ground.


    The tree was around a dozen meters tall, and the fall was rather painful for the snake. It curled up in pain and hissed a few times.


    My heart was beating like crazy. The python was finished. Curling up was its biggest mistake.


    As soon as it curled up, the vigers rushed forward and started sprinkling gunpowder on its body.


    The python was in too much pain, so it didn''t move and maintained the same position, with its head buried deep into its coiled body.


    Fourth Uncle took the lead and stepped forward. He grabbed a hoe and hooked the python''s body, pulling it to one side and unfurling the corpse.


    After the snake''s body was unfurled, a peculiar scene appeared before everyone''s eyes. Although the reptile''s skin had been burnt, with part of the skeleton bing visible, its insides were still fine and had just slightly changed color due to the high temperature. The head, in particr, had been perfectly preserved.


    After the python''s body waspletely unfurled, its head moved slightly, and it weakly hissed.


    The people present were scared out of their wits and quickly retreated. The python was very tenacious, and it was alive even after being reduced to this state.


    Only I seemed to care how much it was suffering at this time.


    Fourth Uncle calmed everyone down, telling them not to be afraid. Then, he grabbed the hoe and cautiously moved closer to the snake.


    The python tried to raise its head, but it had no strength left. In the end, it opened its mouth and spat out something.


    It was blood, as well as a few animals it had swallowed and had yet to digest. I took a quick look, and the animals were mostly hares or stray cats; there was no poultry.


    Then, something among the dead animals attracted my attention. It was a round, odd-looking pitch-ck object.


    Just as I thought of taking a better look, Fourth Uncle swung his hoe again, hitting the python on the head and making one of its eyes pop out.


    However, the snake was still alive, and it painfully swung its head around.


    Then, as if gaining some rity before its impending death, the python used thest bit of its strength to shake off Fourth Uncle and the hoe, hurling them away.


    Fourth Uncle fell to the ground and gasped for breath. The young vigers were also dumbfounded as they started to discuss among themselves.


    "Is that round thing a dragon pearl?"


    "Heavens, it seems this snake has really be a spirit! I heard that only after passing a tribtion can a python reach such a state."


    "We can''t afford to offend a python that has be a spirit! What do we do now?"


    "What can we even do? We can only wait and see. Hopefully, it will flee from us, because if it decides to stay, it is definitely going to retaliate against the vige..."


    I couldn''t help but sneer. I didn''t think it was the ''dragon pearl''. After all, that was something that only appeared in legends. I felt that the ck thing that the pythond spat out was something else.


    I slowly approached the python. I felt that it wouldn''t harm me, and the reason it had injured Fourth Uncle was that thetter didn''t leave it any choice.


    Seeing me get closer to the snake, everyone got anxious, and they kept gesturing at me to stop getting closer to the beast as it was dangerous.


    I sighed inwardly. It was sad that they were lumping me together with them. I knew in my heart that the python didn''t want to hurt anyone. Even if these guys had basically burned it to death, the python had yet to try to kill them.


    If it wanted to, it could have gone on a rampage long ago.


    When I got closer and clearly saw what the ck object was, I was surprised.


    It was a wooden fish used when chanting Buddhist sutras! It was just that the surface was coated in ayer of ck blood. The python peacefullyy on the ground, staring at the wooden fish with the only eye itd left.


    I recalled what Fourth Uncle had told me about the road-blocking ghost. ording to him, the ghost was once a Buddhist nun. As such, was it possible that this item was something that belonged to the nun?


    The python and I looked into each others eyes. It seemed as if the beast was imploring me.


    Then, its eyes shifted to the wooden fish.


    I understood what it meant and grabbed a stick, sitting cross-legged in front of the python.


    Fourth Uncle shouted from afar, "Warrior, quicklye back! That thing is too dangerous!"


    The others also shouted the same thing, but I paid them no mind. I kept sitting in front of the snake.


    I was less than one meter away from the python, and I could clearly see all the patterns on its head. Although I was trying to keep my calm, being so close to it still made a little bit afraid.


    I suppressed my fear and used the stick to gently beat on the wooden fish.


    A husky sound spread from it.


    In the next moment, I felt the entire world quiet down. It felt as if the sound carried a magical power.


    I felt my mind and soul sublimate. All impure thoughts vanished from my head, and only peace was left.


    Amidst the sound of the wooden fish, the python slowly closed its eyes, just like a lost child that had finally found its mother.


    It looked very serene as it listened to the sound. Atst, its breathing gradually stopped, and its eyes also stopped moving.


    I gently rubbed its head.


    At this time, I wanted to believe that it was just asleep...


    After a moment of quietness, the crowd burst into cheers. They lifted me up as they shouted, "Warrior, warrior, warrior!"


    However, I wasnt happy. In fact, I was in a terrible mood. The scene of me being hailed as a brave warrior formed a sharp contrast with the bleak figure of the python.


    I hated the people of the Dai n. I hated them for being dumb savages. From the beginning to the end, the python didnt hurt them. Even if it was burned to death, it didn''t retaliate against them!


    Yet, they did not stop until it was dead. Couldn''t they stop for a moment and think? Why did they have to keep on acting on their wrong understanding of the situation?


    Other than being angry, I was also puzzled.


    Why had the python tried to protect that wooden fish so hard? What secret was it hiding? Moreover, what was its rtionship with the road-blocking ghost?


    I felt that this matter was far from being over. Something bad was bound to happen very soon...

 Chapter 81: The Sound of a Wooden Fish Knocking at Midnight

    Chapter 81: The Sound of a Wooden Fish Knocking at Midnight


    After the cheers ended, they tied the python on a bamboo pole and prepared to return to the vige and put it on disy.


    Fourth Uncle picked up the wooden fish, iming it as his.


    Worried, I told him, This wooden fish isnt something ordinary. It could be an otherworldly item. You should just burn it to prevent any trouble to the vigerster.


    Fourth Uncle wasnt pleased. This wooden fish has been inside that pythons stomach for an unknown period of time. Im sure its medicinal value isnt less than ginseng or Ganoderma.


    I tried to talk him out of it again and again but he wasnt listening to what I had to say. So I thought it was best not to try anymore, I knew he would regret it eventually.


    When the massive python was brought to the vige, it stirred up the entire ce; everybody came to see it. Fourth Uncle said that they would have a bonfire party that night to celebrate.


    The bonfire party was a huge sess. The crowd surrounded and admired the python. Later on, they burned it, leaving just the skeleton as a decoration. They even hung fresh flowers on the skeleton, which beautified it.


    Fourth Uncle kept the wooden fish as a treasure in his house.Yin Xinyue noticed my glum face throughout it all. What happened to you?


    I then exined my worries to Yin Xinyue. She said, You shouldnt overthink, it shouldnt be soplicated. Its just a big python. It didnt want to hurt the vigers before it died, so I dont think it would want to hurt them after its death?


    I sighed. Youd better be right.


    However, it was hard to predict things and soon, disaster urredAt night, while I was sleeping, I was awakened by the sound of someone knocking on a wooden fish.


    At first, I thought that it was just stress and that I mustve misheard it. However, when I listened carefully, the sound became clearer. It came in waves, giving me a splitting headache.


    I woke Li Mazi up. Did you hear someone knocking the wooden fish?


    Li Mazi shook his head. Are you out of your mind? Its midnight. Whos so bored to knock on wooden fish now?


    Then, he turned to his side, falling back asleep.


    It was strange. Why could I hear it clearly when he didnt hear a thing? It was definitely abnormal. I decided to go to Fourth Uncles to check. I had to be ready if it was caused by some otherworldly item.


    However, the moment I left my room, the knocking sound stopped. I sighed in relief. Perhaps I was just overthinking.


    The next day, Yin Xinyue brought us on a sightseeing tour around the vige. However, I wasnt really in the mood as the knocking sound was still on my mind.


    When night fell, I heard the knocking sound again. Under such torment, I considered going to check on Fourth Uncle.


    After making up my mind, I put on my clothes and headed towards Fourth Uncles house.


    The night was dark and quiet. Stars twinkled in the sky, but stingily; there were no lights to illuminate the vige. The shlight in my hand was weak and I couldnt see far away. When a cold wind blew, it gave me a chill that made me shudder.


    When I walked past the pythons skeleton, I heard the wind whistling through the ribs and making sounds as if someone was sobbing.I pointed my shlight at the skeleton.


    It had been hung down from the trees, and whenever there was a breeze, it would gently sway and the flowers on it would softly fall.


    The white bones, the fierce python skull, the moving body, all looked terrifying. I couldnt help but pace up.


    Soon, I came to Fourth Uncles house.


    Fourth Uncles house was closed. When I was there, I was sensitive enough to notice that the knocking sound came from his room.I jumped over his wall and crept towards his room. I pushed open a slit on his window. As soon as I saw the scene inside, I was speechless.


    I would have never expected it to be Fourth Uncle knocking on the wooden fish!


    His eyes were closed but every knock he made on the wooden fish was precise. His face was stiff and his moves were steady as if he had parasomnia.


    What is going on?


    All of a sudden, Fourth Uncle stopped moving. Carefully, he held up the wooden fish and aimed at the slit in the middle, blowing his breath into the fish.


    He had blown like that for quite a long time, and he didnt stop to take more breaths.


    Eventually, when his face reddened, he opened his eyes. His eyes were now congested and horribly bulging.


    I was indeed worried that he could hold and send his breath like that and cause death to himself. I was about to storm in and snatch the wooden fish from him. However, around half a minute of blowing his breath, Fourth Uncle finally took a deep breath and ced the wooden fish back on the table and resumed his knocking rhythm.


    For the whole night, he repeated the two actions as if they were a repeating loop.


    And the strange thing was, despite sleeping in the same room as his wife, Fourth Uncle didnt wake her up. Sometimes, his wife mumbled something in her sleep, but that was it.


    The other vigers didnt hear the knocking noise either. It was really strange since I could hear the noise from a far distance, yet they couldnt hear it at all. Why was that? I vaguely felt that this wooden fish wasnt something ordinary. I was sure it was an otherworldly item.


    At this moment, I couldnt disturb Fourth Uncle. I heard that if we woke up people from their parasomnia, we might cause some damage to their brain.


    That was why I had stayed outside his house and watched until the roosters from the vige began to crow at the break of dawn. Then, Fourth Uncle stopped hitting his wooden fish and went to bed.


    In the morning, I sneakily told Li Mazi my findings.


    Li Mazi was initially frightened but it quickly became excitement. That wooden fishs a treasure. Im sure its been left by that road-blocking ghost. I wonder how much its worth?


    I drew a cigarette, forcing myself to calm down. I told Li Mazi, Although it may be a treasure, we cant take it. I have never heard about such an otherworldly item before. If we take it, Im afraid we could take cmity with us!


    My only thought now was to burn that wooden fish. Perhaps, the spirit inside would rest after the wooden fish has been destroyed.


    Li Mazi was a little disappointed. What is the alternative?


    Shaking my head, I told him, For the time being, I dont have any better solution


    And now, what I was worried about was how to exin it all to Fourth Uncle. If I told him something was wrong with the wooden fish, he probably would not believe me. I couldnt just force him to give me the wooden fish.


    After thinking about it for quite a long time, I decided to go and see Yin Xinyue. She grew up here. Perhaps she could persuade Fourth Uncle!

 Chapter 82: A Happy Event Turns into a Funeral

    Chapter 82: A Happy Event Turns into a Funeral


    When I told Yin Xinyue the event from the beginning to the end, she was scared. If you dont do anything, will there be any consequences? If its just that Fourth Uncle keeps knocking his wooden fish, I dont think we need to do anything about it. Maybe the python wants him to do it to redeem himself. After hes redeemed himself, maybe the wooden fish wont pester Fourth Uncle anymore.


    I sighed. I dont know, but I dont think its that simple.


    Yin Xinyue forced a smile. Brother Zhang, even if I talk to Fourth Uncle, it wont change his mind. In our vige, hes known for his stubbornness. Apart from the mountain gods that the Dai n worships, he doesnt believe in any other supernatural being. What if we wake him up tonight while hes knocking his wooden fish? If he sees the situation himself, he must believe it!


    I shook my head. Its not a good idea. There could be awful consequences if we wake Fourth Uncle in his parasomnia.


    We tried toe up with a n but still hadnte to a conclusion. Then Yin Xinyue suggested we should use our phone to record Fourth Uncles activity when he knocked his wooden fish tonight.


    I agreed with her.


    After the conversation with Yin Xinyue, I went to bed to get some rest. However, I couldnt sleep.


    Coincidently, there was a bride-to-be in the vige. ording to the tradition, the entire vige would celebrate for the whole day.


    The vigers brought the gifts they had prepared to congratte the bride-to-be. To say thank you, she would prepare a feast full of chicken for everyones lunch.


    As a result, the entire vige had be so lively and bustling today. As I was now a warrior of the Dai n, I was pulled out to do the chicken feast.


    After the feast was finished, I returned to my room and slept until the evening. When I woke up, I heard Fourth Uncle talking to someone at the door.


    They saw me and greeted me and chatted about a lot of things. The man who was chatting with Fourth Uncle was the brides father. He was here to wait for the groom toe and pick up the bride. Fourth Uncle told me the brides father was called Uncle Lang. In the vige, Uncle Lang had a high reputation and was only second whenpared to Fourth Uncle.


    Uncle Lang was a little anxious and restless. He paced back and forth. Itste. The grooms delegation should be here already. Has something gone wrong?


    Fourth Uncleforted Uncle Lang, No need to stress. Its a happy event today. They wont let anything go wrong. I know the groom, he is a wise and thoughtful man.


    I said, Would you like me to go and wait for them? I can wee them when they arrive.


    Fourth Uncle rejected my offer. Youre our distinguished guest. How could I let you go out and wait for them? Then, he called a boy nearby, asking him to go out and wait for the groom.


    The boy swiftly ran away. Not long after that, I heard him crying outside.


    The boy was covered in dirt and even wounds. He stumbled, running into the vige, crying and screaming.


    My heart throbbed. I knew something bad had urred. I hurried to ask the boy, What happened?


    The boy cried hysterically, his eyes and nose streaming. Its terrible something terrible has happened! Theyre all dead. Fourth Uncle,e and look!


    What? Fourth Uncle jumped to his feet. You shouldnt be making things up. Today is a happy day.


    I urged, Fourth Uncle, just go and check. This boy is smart. He wouldnt joke around with something as serious as this.


    Uncle Lang was also hurried outside. He called a group of young men to go and check with them.


    When we came to the dirt road at the entrance of the vige, we were all in shock.


    The air reeked with the smell of blood. Everywhere was a horrible mess.


    A three-wheel car with the word Happiness written on it in red was in a ditch. The people that were once in the car were now under it with blood all over their bodies. The other side of the ditch was dyed red with blood and there were scattered limbs on the road.


    The scene made some of the vigers sick. I didnt feelfortable, but I was able to hold it in.


    Fourth Uncle roared like an enraged beast. Road-blocking ghost, I will never spare you!


    Uncle Lang fainted. The people of the Dai n were really superstitious. When something like this happened on the wedding day, the bride would be considered a bad-luck charm. Nobody would ever want to marry her.


    It also meant his daughters life was now ruined.


    Everybody was dumbstruck. I shrieked, Hurry! Check to see if anybody is still alive!


    My yell shocked people into action. They hurried to lift up the three-wheel car which was pressing on the victims.


    Most of them had serious injuries; their bones were broken and had lost a lot of blood. Some still breathed, but their chances of survival were slim.


    Since the driver sat in the front seat, he wasnt crushed and his life was somewhat spared.


    I screamed, calling Fourth Uncle to help get him to safety.


    After several hours of rescuing, only two among the grooms delegation made it, including the driver.


    When the driver regained consciousness, he asked feebly, Is Is Everybody Okay?


    Fourth Uncle patted his shoulder, You should rest first. Worry about yourself for now.


    The driver then fainted again.


    Fourth Uncle called for me. I could tell he was angry.


    Tomorrow morning, we will go together and kill that road-blocking ghost. He said, Does it not respect our vige for not having strong people?


    I asked, Fourth Uncle, dont you think its strange?


    Fourth Uncle looked at me. Whats strange?


    Youd told me no one had died on that road before. But ever since we killed the python, people have been dying shortly after.


    Fourth Uncle snapped, Do I even need to answer that? Of course its because we killed the python. The road-blocking ghost was its aplice, thats why it killed the vigersto vent out the anger!


    I couldnt help butugh. Fourth Uncle did have some big imagination!


    Fourth Uncle, has it ever urred to you that the road-blocking ghost may actually be good?


    What do you mean? asked Fourth Uncle, surprised. How could it be good? Are you saying this because youre scared?


    I exined, Fourth Uncle, youve misunderstood me. Please listen to me properly. The road-blocking ghost showed itself just to protect the travellers and now, but because we hurt the road-blocking ghost, that tragic incident happened.


    Fourth Uncle looked at me quietly. Warrior, what made you think of this? ording to you, if it werent the road-blocking ghost, the vigers who had travelled on that road, would have been killed?


    I nodded, Yes, Fourth Uncle, Im telling you the truth. When we were driving to the vige, we were so tired. Thats why we dozed off.


    It is really dangerous dozing off while driving. Just a wrong stirring of the wheel, and all people in the car would lose their lives.


    But since the road-blocking ghost appeared and scared us, we woke straight up and avoided any crash that mightve happened otherwise...


    I think the other drivers that were in simr situations on that road only survived because of the road-blocking ghost. I tried my best to persuade them.


    Fourth Uncle looked at me as if he was looking at a monster. Are you out of your mind? Why are you saying that the road-blocking ghost is good? Its ridiculous. You shouldnt be involved with this anymore.


    Then, Fourth Uncle walked away from me. He went to talk to the others to talk about how to get rid of the road-blocking ghost.


    Helplessly, I shook my head. I came to see Yin Xinyue and told her about everything.


    After Yin Xinyue had listened to the story, she said to me, You shouldnt be so reckless and try to sort things out like you did. With Fourth Uncles temper, Im surprised he didnt expel you.


    I said, Well, I just spoke the truth. All signs had pointed to the idea that the road-blocking ghost is good. And I assume that the road-blocking ghost is residing inside that wooden fish. As the wooden fish was brought inside the vige, it couldn''t protect the travellers anymore.


    Yin Xinyue continued, Actually, its not that we cant do anything. We will stick to our n! Tonight, we will record Fourth Uncle in his sleep. When he watches himself in the video, he will believe us.


    For now, that was all we could do.


    Shortly after, Fourth Uncle gathered people to discuss. Everybody agreed that it was the road-blocking ghost wanting to take revenge. That was why the tragic ident had happened today. No matter what, tomorrow, they must destroy the road-blocking ghost.


    As for how they nned to do that, I was not sure.


    In this moment, I felt a sense of injustice for the wooden fish. It helped the vigers, and now the vigers thought that it was the murderer


    These ignorant vigers! They only saw the surface of the problem.


    Because of what I had said, no one liked me anymore, and I was ignored.Since you guys dont believe me, I will prove it all by myself.


    The night came fast. After we had dinner, we waited patiently.


    After midnight, I heard the sound of the wooden fish knocking. I knew for sure Fourth Uncle was now sleepwalking. I woke up Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue, telling them we needed to take action!

 Chapter 83: Love Knows No Boundaries

    Chapter 83: Love Knows No Boundaries


    We tiptoed out of the room. In an attempt to not be seen by the other vigers, Yin Xinyue took us on a small path. Soon, we reached Fourth Uncles house.


    The rhythmic knocking sounds came from the room inside. I muttered to Yin Xinyue, You really cant hear anything?


    Yin Xinyue shook her head, confirming, Yeah, nothing.


    Its strange. Why am I the only one who can hear it?I silently pushed the window open and peeped in.


    Fourth Uncle was sitting in the same position as the day before; he was sitting on a chair, holding a stick and hitting the wooden fish.


    Although I had told Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi Fourth Uncles strange situation, when they saw him knocking on the wooden fish, their mouths were glued open in disbelief.


    Yin Xinyue was about to scream so I hurried to cover her mouth. Be quiet, dont talk. Get your phone and quickly record what he is doing.


    Yin Xinyue took out her phone, aimed it at Fourth Uncle and began recording. I could tell Yin Xinyue was terrified. Her hands were shaking so much I ended up having to record it all myself.


    Fourth Uncle knocked for several minutes before holding up the wooden fish and blowing into it. He continued like that for a while. All of a sudden, he dropped the wooden fish and opened his eyes, looking in the direction we were hiding in.


    My heart skipped a beat.Shit. We have been busted!


    I wondered if the wooden fish had spotted us or if it was Fourth Uncle himself.


    While I was thinking of what to do next, Fourth Uncle slowly got up.What is he doing?I was so anxious.Is he about to attack us?


    To be safe, I rushed Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue to the courtyard next door and observed Fourth Uncle from there instead.


    Fourth Uncle walked out with the wooden fish stuck on his forehead. He was staggering as if he was drunk.


    The wooden fish was adhered to his forehead, and no matter how hard he shook his head, it didnt fall off.


    He beganing towards the corner, picking up an iron shovel. I was startled. Instinctively, I thought that he was about to attack us. So, I drew the dagger I had kept at my waist.


    However, Fourth Uncle was not bothered by our presence in the slightest and he turned around and left the courtyard.


    It was pitch ck outside, the dead of night, we could even hear wolves howling. What was he about to do with that shovel? Was he going hunting? Well, if he wanted to hunt, he wouldnt have picked up a shovel.


    I didnt like to overthink it. Li Mazi, Yin Xinyue and I continued to follow him. Fourth Uncle lurched and knocked on someones door. When the door opened, he said, Wake up and get to work


    The vigers looked at Fourth Uncle strangely, like they were horrified. Fourth Uncle had his eyes shut and a wooden fish stuck on his forehead; his appearance made people shudder.


    I was afraid that they would wake up Fourth Uncle from his parasomnia, so I stood behind him, softly whispering to the vigers to ask them to do what Fourth Uncle said.


    The vigers were stunned. However, they seemed to know that it was the road-blocking ghost so they all listened to Fourth Uncles order. They found their shovels and followed him outside.


    Fourth Uncle yelled and summoned all the people in the vige. As it was the middle of the night, it caused a hugemotion.


    I asked Yin Xinyue tofort the vigers, telling them not to be scared. The road-blocking ghost was controlling Fourth Uncle. We wanted to see what it wanted and if anything dangerous were to happen, I was there to help.


    After Yin Xinyue hadforted them, people felt better, walking behind Fourth Uncle to the road leading to their vige.


    The cold moonlight shone on them, but the shadows from the trees leaves and branches blocked and hindered it, creating a big of shadows.


    I was worried that something dangerous might happen. I asked the vigers to stay and wait by the vige entrance while Li Mazi and I walked behind Fourth Uncle.


    When Fourth Uncle came to the ditch where many traffic idents had happened, his mouth curved into a bizarre smile. He then put the shovel down, saying, The luck of this ce isnt good. Whenever someone drives past, they will be somewhat dazed, and its easy to fall into the ditch. If we fill the ditch, we wont have to worry anymore...


    When I heard that, goosebumps rose on my skin. It wasnt Fourth Uncles voice at all. It was the voice of a senile woman! Although it was a little hoarse, it had a touch of kindness.


    The vigers were scared, their faces turned pale.


    While trying to fill the ditch, Fourth Uncle sighed, Its just a pity that my son died young, but it was his destiny.


    I was shocked. I knew the road-blocking ghost had just spoken!


    She was truly someone who had achieved enlightenment. Although the vigers had treated her, their benefactor, badly and they had even killed her son, she still repaid their grudge with kindness. She still cared about the vigers welfare.


    I wondered what the vigers were thinking? They all looked frightened and couldnt process what they were seeing, shivering in fear whilst watching Fourth Uncle.


    Fourth Uncle used his shovel to dig up soil and began to fill the ditch.I wiped my tears, grabbing the shovel from a man standing nearby. I walked forward and helped Fourth Uncle fill the ditch.


    After a while, the other vigers finally began to help, hurrying to us. At this moment, it seemed as though everyone was working together to help fill the ditch.


    Seeing the ditch about to be filled, Fourth Uncle suddenly trembled. He fell on the ground, his limbs convulsing.


    I immediately ran towards him and tried to help him.


    The wooden fish finally fell off his forehead.


    Fourth Uncle opened his eyes, drowsily looking around, his voice faint. Where am I? I I saw an old nun.


    I asked, Fourth Uncle, do you remember that we have just filled the ditch?


    Fourth Uncle hesitated then said, I have a faint memory of it.


    He looked at the site where people were working hard, his eyes reddening. Warrior, is it actually like what you said?


    I nodded, Im afraid so.


    Fourth Uncle kneeled, screaming and crying, me me! me me! I mistook our benefactor!


    I picked up the wooden fish, handing it to Fourth Uncle. Let it rest, too!Fourth Uncle nodded, burying the wooden fish in the ditch.


    Afterward, Fourth Uncle returned to the vige. Then, he held another feast to show his gratitude to the wooden fish. At the end, the vigers gathered to bury the pythons skeleton in the ditch.


    Later on, Yin Xinyue told me that no more traffic incidents have urred in that area. An investor hade and built roads in her hometown, helping out the vige massively.


    I strongly believed that it was the old nun who had protected themThere is a lot of darkness in life. But we should not ignore the light just because of the darkness. Just because there are bad people, we shouldnt conclude everybodyes to us with bad intention.


    Please be more forgiving and less harming! One shouldnt hurt the kind peoples heart.

 Chapter 84: Freeze to Death

    Chapter 84: Freeze to Death


    After the event in the Dai vige came to an end, Yin Xinyue took me to visit Xishuangbanna, the autonomous prefecture where her n lived.


    We also went to see the Lancang River, the Ancient Tea Horse Road, the Big Buddha Temple and all of the other famous attractions. We then drove home, exhausted from the day we had.


    Then, I got a call from the man that was wearing the Kumamon t-shirt.


    I was really excited as I hadnt seen or heard from him in ages and I had been missing him recently.


    However, when I started talking to him, he sounded feeble, like he was hurt.


    Are you alright? I asked him promptly.


    The man coughed for quite a long time before he could manage to reply. He eventually asked me where I was. I told him I had just finished my tour around the attractions and that I was now on my way home.


    The man screamed, Dont go home. Go travelling. The further the better!


    His voice was hurried and he sounded panicked.


    I was scared. Why? I asked.


    Theres a group of people asking where you are. They are really intimidating and look like they could hurt you. Youd have to be stupid toe home now, you would be handing yourself to them, he said.


    I took in a deep breath and tried to process the situation. The man made it sound like they were really bad people and that I needed to be really careful.


    Maybe they were my grandfathers enemy!


    I wanted to ask him more but he had already hung up. I knew if I tried to callter, his phone would be off and I wouldnt get any response


    I brought Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue to stay in a small town nearby. We were helpless and I wasnt sure what else I could do.


    The town we were staying in was really small and very poor; it didnt even have a gas station.


    Although we had found the best hotel avable here, it was still a horrible ce to stay. The bed sheets were filthy and had ck stains all over them. The bathroom was no better. It made me feel sick.


    We didnt dare to leave the hotel for several days. We called the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt to tell him that we were fine.


    However, I was worried something bad had happened to him. We couldnt get a hold of him.


    Helpless, we could only wait and see.


    Eventually, Li Mazi snapped; he couldnt stand it anymore. He suggested that we go and have a look around the town. We had been trapped in that hotel room for very long, so he was bored to death.


    I thought it could be a good way to change the mood, so I agreed.


    We walked around the small town and bought some stuff and then it began to get dark. As we were walking back to the hotel, we saw crowds of people flocking to the outskirts of the town.


    Li Mazi was extremely curious about the situation. He caught up with a man and asked him, Whats happened?


    The man told him that someone had been found dead on the outskirts; the entire vige got wind of it and they all wanted to see as this person had died in a bizarre way.


    This made Li Mazi even more curious and so he decided to go and see. I pulled him back, Where are you going? The crowd is toorge, we cant protect ourselves or each other.


    But Li Mazi was as stubborn as a turtle. Helplessly, we had to follow him.


    When we arrived at the scene, it was overflowing with people wanting to know what exactly had gone on. I looked around and it appeared to be some sort of graveyard. There were no houses nearby, only some tall grass and crooked tombstones.


    The vigers had filled all the space in the area. I tried to nudge and squeeze but I couldnt get through them all.


    I felt weird.Has someone really died? Why has this created such amotion?


    Li Mazi finally pushed through the crowd and I immediately followed him. When I got through the crowd and saw the dead body, I was startled!


    The body was curled up, wrapped inside a gold silk quilt. His face and hair were frosted. It looked like he had frozen to death!However, the dead body had a strange smile on his face as if he was smiling a moment before his death.


    It wasnt right. It had just turned autumn so it was still warm, yet this body was wrapped up in manyyers looking as if it had just been taken out of a freezer?


    At first nce, I knew this corpse was abnormal.


    I asked Li Mazi, Did you find anything else?


    Li Mazi nodded, pointing at an unearthed grave next to the corpse. This guy was a grave robber, I suppose. He had just fished up some stuff when he got cold and froze to death. Right, you see the quilt on his body? The pattern and color look old. Maybe it came from one of the graves. But something is off


    At this point, Li Mazis expression changed and he looked skeptical. You see, this boy had soft flesh and fair skin. He had a golden chain, so it didnt look like he was poor. Why did he have toe to a remote town to rob a random grave?


    Yin Xinyue snorted. Rich boys want to seek excitement! I think he just came here to seek some thrills.


    I nodded, looking pensive. Right, he must be some second-generation rich boy, who had joined some thrilling game.


    But I couldnt figure out how he had frozen himself to death...


    Police sirens arose from a far distance. Three police cars arrived shortly after and pulled to a halt.


    The police hurried to disperse the crowd. A woman and a man got out of the car. They were both very well-dressed. From the first nce, I knew they were rich, the woman in particr. She wore lots of expensive jewelry, too much to count.


    She screamed and cried, dashing toward the graveyard. She hugged the corpse, howling. The man stood next to her, crying silently.


    It seemed the dead boy was in fact part of a rich family! Shortly after, a forensic doctor came to check the body. He looked bewildered after he had finished investigating the corpse.


    The boy had frozen to death.


    But summer had just ended, so how could someone possibly die from the cold weather at this time of year?


    And, the dead boy was covered in a thick quilt, so he shouldnt have frozen to death.


    But his arms and legs were really icy. If they used a knife and scratched his skin, they could scrape some chipped ice.


    After the police brought the corpse away, my eyesy on the quilt they put aside.


    I thought I should check if something was wrong with the gold silk quilt he had taken from the coffin.


    Could it be rted to the death of the boy?


    However, Li Mazi stopped me. That stuff belongs to the dead and it brings misfortune. If you touch it, you will be unlucky for three years.I couldnt do anything else but give up the idea, following Li Mazi back to the hotel.


    For the next several days, we stayed idle in the small hotel. Sometimes we would go for a walk when we got really bored.


    Then, I rang the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt. I had been trying to contact him several times over the previous days, and the call got through a few times.


    He repeatedly warned us that we should never go home.


    I was reluctant but I knew he wanted the best for me.


    Life was dull and depressing. As so much time had passed, I had forgotten about the corpse in the graveyard.


    Today, I decided to stay back in the hotel room when Li Mazi went out to buy some food.


    However, not long after he got out of the hotel he hade back with an excited tone in his voice. There has been another body found in that graveyard! Its in the exact same ce!


    Iughed. Are you sure? Thats too much of a coincidence.


    Li Mazi pulled me over. Why would I try and deceive you? Everybody is talking about it. We should go and check it out.


    I couldnt talk Li Mazi out of it, so I had to follow him.


    On the way, Li Mazi told me, Everyone is talking about what they think is happening. Some believe that there are paranormal activities going on in the graveyard. The dead were captured by the lone souls and ghosts.


    I of course knew that they were just babbling. If the lone souls or ghosts could kill people deliberately, theyd have killed everybody by now, wouldnt they?


    When I squeezed and got through the crowd, I saw the dead body and I shuddered in fear. At that moment I almost believed in the legend that it was the lone souls or ghosts that were killing people!

 Chapter 85: The Golden Silk Quilt

    Chapter 85: The Golden Silk Quilt


    The way the body had been found this time looked very simr to the other boy who was found dead in the same spot.


    His body was curled up inside the same golden silk quilt. His face was frozen and he wore a strange smile, just like the other boy. Apparently, he also froze to death.


    Theres definitely something wrong with that quilt!


    The two dead bodies were wrapped in the same quilt, so it couldnt have been a coincidence. They mustve encountered something strange and supernatural before their deaths. Whatever it was might be the reason why they died like they did.


    The police behaved in the exact same way as they did with the first body, protecting the scene and collecting all the forensic evidence they needed. Eventually, the corpse was taken away by the family and the graveyard was struck with silence once again.


    After everybody had left, I decided to have a look at the quilt. This time, Li Mazi didnt stop me. He also thought it could be an otherworldly item and knew it could be very valuable. It was like we had bumped into easy money midway home.


    I couldnt help butugh at Li Mazis greed. Even if the quilt was an otherworldly item, I wouldnt dare to take it! And even if I did, I wasnt sure anyone would buy it! After all, who would pay money to buy a quilt that killed people?


    As I got closer to the quilt, I felt the temperature drop. The quilt and its power scared me as I didnt know what it might be capable of.


    When I touched it, I instantly felt a st of cold through my fingertips, like I was touching a block of ice.


    It was strange that such a soft nket could feel so cold. It felt like it had been sitting outside in the middle of a harsh and bitter winter.


    I will never forget the feeling of that quilt.


    I immediately moved my hand away from the quilt. I think this quilt might be an otherworldly item. I think its evil. I dont want to touch it and I don''t think you should either. Lets go.


    But Li Mazi didnt want to go. He insisted that we should take the nket so I could get rid of the negative energy surrounding it. That way, wed be able to sell the nketter on.


    I scoffed at him, Someone would have to be out of their mind to buy a quilt that people have died in.


    Li Mazi pouted his lips. Well, its hard to understand the world of the rich. What if someone wants to buy it? Its an important opportunity. Business opportunities are everywhere, and you have to seize them!


    I really admired Li Mazi for his boldness. I dont know where this golden quilt came from and if we want to understand it, we have to find out its origin. Lets go back to the hotel and work out what we are going to do and then we cane and pick up this quilt.


    Li Mazi agreed but he left with great reluctance.


    On the way back to the hotel, I finally understood why Li Mazi wanted to keep the golden quilt so much.


    It turned out Li Mazi had been hoping to collect some antiques during this trip to Xishuangbanna.


    Even though we had solved the road-blocking ghost case in Yin Xinyues hometown, we were still very poor and werent earning any money. When we came across this golden quilt, he realised the potential and became hungry for it.


    When Li Mazi and I worked together, we earned a lot of money, but he spent most of it on treating his sons leukemia so his living conditions werent that good now.


    This quilt was a rare opportunity so Li Mazi didnt want to miss it.


    Even though I said I wasnt willing to take the quilt, I was still curious to find out more about its origins. How could it freeze people to death and how could it just randomly appear in the graveyard?


    Perhaps, it was the otherworldly merchants upational disease. When they see otherworldly items or anything simr, they would be in awe.


    It was like a car-lover. Every time car-lovers see a new car getting released, they would hate themself for not immediately buying one.


    After spending some time thinking about it thoroughly, I finally had an idea about where the quilt came from and how it could do what it did.


    The previous owner of the quilt must have been frozen to death, and that quilt had absorbed the users endless resentment. That was why it didnt keep people warm but froze them to death instead.


    And, the two recent deaths were all the sons of rich and noble families. It meant the quilts owner must have hated the noble and rich people a lot while he was still alive. And why was that, I didnt know. Perhaps the quilts owner was exploited or framed by the powerful when he was still alive.


    Didnt the great poet Du Fu also have a quatrain about it? Literally, he wrote, the rich left meat to be spoiled while poor people died of cold on the street.


    However, the most important thing here was, why did those second-generation rich kids decide to steal items from the grave in the middle of the night and provoke that quilt? There was something strange about it.


    If we could find out why the two came to that deste graveyard, we could easily solve the problem.


    Li Mazi saw me staying idle for quite a long time, asking What are you thinking about?


    I sighed and told him my thought. Li Mazi gave me a thumb-up. As you could guess the quilts origin, have you thought of how to deal with it yet?


    I shook my head. There are more things to study. As long as we understand all the matters, we can find the right treatment for the right disease.


    Li Mazi said, Well, thats easy, right? We just go there and ask directly.


    I shot him a fierce nce. You want money so much that you dont want your life anymore? Those rich kids deaths are strange. If you go there and rub salt in their wounds, I wouldnt be surprised if they kill you.


    Li Mazi scratched his head. It was a slip of my tongue. Dont consider that.


    Anyway, we didnt have to go and see them, they came to us instead


    One day, I went out for a bowl of beef noodle. When I came back, I almost vomited as I was sick of it. The only food I could buy in this town was beef noodle and I had eaten the same dish for the entire week.


    I was pondering whether I should find some viger here and buy a chicken to ease my need.


    When I made up my mind and came to ask the hotels owner if he knew someone selling chicken, he told me someone had left me a phone number and asked me to call him as it was an urgent matter.


    I was scared, really. I thought the enemy was here, and my first reaction was to collect my stuff and run!


    Call that phone number? Impossible! Isnt that no different from courting death?


    However, what the hotels owner said next stopped me from running away.


    The hotels owner told me that the man had left me some advice, and it was of my best interest to listen to him. Otherwise, he would disclose my whereabouts.


    Listening to the hotels owner, I sighed in relief.


    From that sentence, I figured the man wasnt my enemy.


    I became bolder and called the number.


    An old man with a strong voice and a touch of vicissitude picked up the phone. My first impression of him was that he must have been a bold and ruthless guy when he was young.


    He didnt tell me much through the phone but asked me to go to his house. His house wasnt far away from this town as it was in a vige nearby.


    I asked, How did you know where I am?


    The old man sneered. In this circle, theres nobody I cant find.


    I was startled. If he said so, he clearly meant that he was an otherworldly merchant like me.


    My imagination started to run wild.If this old man hade to me out of the blue, it must be something rted to that golden quilt!


    But still, I couldnt verify whether he was a friend or an enemy. With the thought of eggs shouldnt be put in the same bag, I decided to go there on my own while Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue would seize the chance to run away.


    Li Mazi, no doubt, agreed with my n. No matter what, he was a chicken. But Yin Xinyue didnt look pleased. She wanted to go with me so we could take care of each other in case we needed help.


    I hesitated for a while, but I knew it would be useless to continue the conversation. Eventually, I agreed to let Yin Xinyue apany me.


    I used Li Mazis car. I had driven less than ten kilometers to reach the old mans vige.


    It was a rundown vige. Garbage was everywhere. I could even see the mud-walled houses built in 1970s. The air was reeking with urine smell and poultrys discharges.


    The old mans lodge was even worse. Garbage piled up at his door, attracting a lot of flies. I wondered how long he had stayed inside that shabby house...


    Yin Xinyue felt disgusted. Is that old man one of those otakus?


    I was speechless. I have never seen an old otaku before.


    I walked over and knocked on the door. An old, hunch-backed man wearing a military coat opened the door. He looked at me and then Yin Xinyue. The man can go in but not the woman.


    I couldnt do anything else but let Yin Xinyue wait outside. In the dim-lit room, I scanned the old mans house.


    This room was a big mess with many crumpled, balls of paper. Some yellowed, old books sat quietly on a desk, which seemed to be the only wooden furniture in the house. Everything else was made of stone.


    There were so many bottles and jars hung on the walls. They all looked like antiques. If I didnt watch my head while walking around the room, I could bump into those hanging jars.


    In this dirty room, there was nowhere to sit. And, the old man didnt look sorry for his dirty house. He casually took off his shoes and sat on his bed, looking at me.


    I didnt know when he had washed his feetst. The sour smell from his feet made me dizzy.


    Young man, what do you think of my ce? the old man asked smilingly.


    I furrowed my brows. Its very unique.


    It was the only thing I coulde up with to give apliment.


    The old man smiled. Young man, you will soon have a style like mine.


    I raised my brows. Not necessary, sir.


    Hmph! Seems you havent understood this circle. The old man fumed strangely. Being an otherworldly merchant, no one would have a decent end. Both your grandfather and father couldnt avoid a tragic death. You couldnt find their remains, right?


    I was stunned, looking at him with shocked eyes. You knew my grandfather?!

 Chapter 86: Qinghuais Prostitutes

    Chapter 86: Qinghuai''s Prostitutes


    Right! The old man said, That year, your grandfather and I worked together many times, taking on some very incredible jobs. Anyway, your grandfather wasnt a low-key person. Thats why he died so young. The only reason I could survive up till now is my humble way of living. Haiz! And yet, now I feel as if I would rather be dead than alive...


    I suddenly remembered one thing. Among the belongings my grandpa had left me, there was a photo album. In that album, arge portion of the photos inside included my grandpa and a young man.


    At that time, my grandpa was pretty young and enthusiastic. With how he presented himself and what he wore, he looked like a rich, youthful individual.


    The other person was even more well-dressed than my grandpa. In fact, after looking at this old man again, I felt that both men bore some resemnce to one another.


    Could this old man be the young man in those photos?


    I couldnt believe it. If this was true, such a change was shocking.


    The old man smiled, So? Do you now recognize my familiar face?


    When he asked this, I was sure my hunch had been true. This dirty, wrinkled old man was that vibrant person in my grandpas photos.


    I looked at him disbelievingly, unable to find my voice for quite a long time.


    Theres no reason to be surprised. The old man stated frankly. In fact, my wealth is enough to buy ten towns such as this. I have a lot of money, but I cant afford to spend it. Working in this business, one must have such wisdom. Its good to stop early.


    I gulped, looking at him. Sir, what do you need help with?


    Its simple, the old man answered. Im giving you an opportunity.


    What is it? I looked at him, clueless.


    My grandson is dead. The old mans emotionless face finally changed. You must help me take revenge.


    Revenge? Your grandson? I was startled. One of the two who died at the graveyard was your grandson?


    Indeed, the old man said. The first person to die there was my grandson. That otherworldly item killed him


    I couldnt believe it. Who are you kidding? That kid looked exactly like any other rich guy. If your family is that wealthy, why would you have to stay in this shabby lodge?


    The old man sneered. Little kid, didnt you listen to me? I told you, my money is enough to buy ten towns like this. Im here because I need toy low.


    I took a deep breath. It seemed the old man wasnt just shamelessly boasting.


    Yet, what was he scared of to make him hide here?


    I tried to suppress my emotions and clear my head to analyze what the old man had told me.


    Okay. The old man sighed. My grandson is dead, and its somewhat my fault, but I cant do anything about it. Once I take action, my life will be over. Thats why only you can help me!


    I kept pestering, and eventually the old man told me the details all the way from the beginning.


    The grandsons family had established their business in a few nearby cities with the investment from the old mans wealth, choosing to work in the antique business.


    The old man understood it better than anybody that there wouldnt be any major profits if his family stayed in this business. Thus, he didnt want his grandson and children to get involved with otherworldly items trading.


    However, perhaps because it ran down in the family, the old mans grandson had a special interest in otherworldly items, and he was really talented on top of that. As he had shown an immense interest in his grandfathers old stories, he devoted himself to bing an otherworldly merchant.


    The old man was helpless, and he had no choice but to agree with his grandson. He also informed the young man that there was an otherworldly item located in the remote graveyard of this town.


    The old man knew that the otherworldly item located in the grave was really evil. He had continuously warned his grandson that, before he had mastered the necessary skills, he shouldnt take the risk and dig up that grave.


    However, young people these days were all reckless. To seek a thrill, he went and dug up the grave without taking the proper precautions.


    The consequence was clear. He had provoked the otherworldly item, and he was frozen to death.


    When the old man arrived at the scene, he identally saw the three of us.


    The old man recognized me. Themunity of otherworldly item trading wasnt very notable. Counting back several generations, one could link everything to the same teacher.


    As the old man couldnt take action himself, hed nned to utilize us. After finding us, he proceeded to stalk us to the small hotel and left his phone number.


    I took a deep breath and thought about the whole situation. Anyway, why do we want to deal with that otherworldly item? Could we not just bury it right back in the grave? Do you really want to make other people take revenge for your grandson? Im sorry, sir. I havent mastered my skills, so I cant help you end this grudge.


    The old man sneered. You think I expect you to help? Even if we had ten guys like you present, it would not be enough to deal with that golden quilt! I just want you to help the evil spirit dwelling in that quilt ascend. Ive done bad things for my whole life, I guess I should do something good to atone for my sins. Or else, when I go to Hell, Id be dipped in a boiling oil wok.


    Besides, do you think that everything would be fixed if we buried the golden quilt? Youre too nave. The evil spirit residing in the golden quilt has been awakened, and Im sure it would keep hunting for more prey. The second death is a good example of that, exined the old man.


    I smacked my tongue. I understand.


    I asked the old man, How much do you know about that quilt? The more we know about it, the easier it will be to get the job done.


    The old man shook his head reluctantly. I havent had any direct encounters with that quilt, so I dont really know the answer to your question. Anyway, from the conditions of the bodies, I assume the spirit could be from a prostitute in ancient times.


    A prostitute.


    Right, how could I not think of that?I immediately felt enlightened.


    Who would hate the rich and noble that much? What person would feel so cold to the point where even a quilt couldnt warm their cold heart? Of course, it had to be a prostitute.


    This was especially true of prostitutes from thete Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. In those cases, this situation would be the most serious.


    In that era, officials encouraged prostitution. Whenever a mans house was investigated, his wife and daughters could be put in a whore house. The poor, out of their hunger and poverty, would sometimes sell their daughters to brothels.


    That was how the ce famous for its fragrant beauties was formed: Qinhuai River.


    Qinhuai River had prostitution houses and even flowery ships cruising alongside the river and almost everywhere surrounding it. This ce gathered all the best prostitutes in the country. It also happened to be the favorite gathering ce of the boys from the noble and rich families. It wasnt hard to imagine how much stories of hate and love had been generated there


    The prostitutes had their dignity, but life had forced their hand and made them decide to sell their bodies.


    However, in their hearts, they had always yearned for love and happiness.


    So many men had used their sweet words to deceive these women, disappearing after they got what they wanted from the prostitutes.


    The moment their hearts were shattered into pieces, the prostitutes could only gaze upon the golden silk quilt left upon the bed where they had such intimate moments with their lovers, their tears washing their faces


    Then, they dried their tears and got in the bed with another man.


    Their love and their resentment had all umted in the quilts on their beds.


    It was no wonder that this sort of quilt had turned into some otherworldly item!


    The old man looked at me in surprise. Young man, you feel bad for those prostitutes, dont you?


    As the old man hit my soft spot, I felt a bit abashed and waved my hands. No, no. Sir, its better that you tell me your n now!

 Chapter 87: The Deadly Willow Forest

    Chapter 87: The Deadly Willow Forest


    The old man gave a faint smile. Young man, dont change the topic. Tell me, do you think that those prostitutes had a pitiful life?


    I nodded reluctantly.


    The old man was silent for a while before sighing. Youre just like your grandfather. You guys are all soft-hearted. You should know that the reason your grandfather died was due to this soft-hearted character.


    Listening to the old man, I became anxious, my bright eyes gazing at him. You know how my grandfather died? Did someone kill him? Please, tell me!


    The old man waved his hand. I cant tell you. If I told you the truth, I would be breaking the rules of the organization. When the timees, you will know the answer


    Even after a long period of time had passed, I still couldnt calm myself down. I continued to pester the old man, asking him for the causes to or any relevant events surrounding my grandpas death. However, he kept his mouth shut, and I couldnt make him talk.


    Eventually, I had to give up.


    The old man asked me to go to a willow forest outside the vige and bring back some twigs. He specified that these twigs must be precisely one and a half meters long. They couldnt be any shorter or longer.


    I looked at the old man, a little speechless. I didnt know why he needed me to gather these twigs for him.


    In addition, how could a willow tree have such a long branch? It was already considered lucky if I found a branch that was one-meter-long.


    The old man smiled, telling me I could find them and not to worry.I became skeptical. Was this old man tricking me? Despite all of these doubts, I still chose to believe him in the end. At the very least, the photos from my grandpas album werent fake. This added some credibility to the old mans character.


    As I knew this old man didnt mean any harm, I called Li Mazi and asked him toe here. Then, together with him and Yin Xinyue, I went outside the vige to break some damned willow twigs.


    We asked the vigers for directions to the willow forest and, when they knew that we wanted to visit the willow forest, they all looked at us with strange eyes. Some kind and anxious aunties told us not to go there.


    We felt strange, so we asked for more information, but they didnt want to answer.


    I became vignt. It seemed that damn old man didnt tell me the entire truth! I was now certain that he was hiding something from me. The reason that he didnt take action wasnt that he could be killed. It must be due to something in that willow forest.


    Even though the willow forest was full of dangers, we still had to go there.


    When we arrived at the willow forest, I found that it wasnt a vast ce, and the trees seemed to be arranged neatly. It looked like a man made forest.


    Putting that aside, the willow trees in this area looked quite young. They didnt look like they had been nted for years. With this factor, it would be pretty difficult to find a one-meter twig, let alone a one-and-a-half meter one.


    Li Mazi held a tape measure, walking around and checking the length of the various branches. When hisst bit of patience had been drained, he scoffed, Is that old man messing with us? Where could we find a one-and-a-half-meter twig? How about we just bring him some random twig?


    I told him, No, the twig is the tool we must use tonight. We cant just make do with whatever.


    In this thick willow forest, we walked around until we finally spotted an old willow tree, which was as big as the embrace of two adults. This tree grew in the north direction of the willow forest.


    Seeing the tree and its location, I felt that something was quite wrong. Due to its Yin character, the north direction of the willow forest was the ce where ghostly energy umted. In theory, there shouldnt be any leaves or grass growing here.


    However, the willow tree standing in front of us wasnt withered, but was, in fact, the tallest and strongest one of them all. I was afraid that only the old man knew what was the secret of that willow.


    Alright, just forget it. We should seize the time to find some twigs that measure to one-and-a-half-meter long!


    However, we were in disbelief when we found that all of the twigs on this willow, aside for the young ones, were around one and a half meters tall. In addition, thest twig had a clear cut mark on it.


    In other words, someone had intentionally kept this willows twigs at one and a half meter long. There would be no twig shorter or longer than that.


    Who had done this? What was his purpose?


    We cut some twigs, and when we thought that we had harvested enough, we tied them up into a bunch and hurriedly returned.


    At this moment, however, the night had fallen. When we carried the twigs and left, I suddenly felt a chill behind my back. It felt exactly like someone blowing their breath on my neck.


    Although this feeling was very faint, my scalp tingled, and I couldnt help but speed up.


    I didnt dare turn my head around because, if I saw something there, the mental pressure would be worse.


    Moreover, there was that legend about people having three Yang mes on their shoulders and head. If I turned around and the evil spirit blew one off, I would be in big trouble!


    As I kept walking forward, I suddenly heard Yin Xinyue scream.


    I looked at her through the corner of my eye, and I found Yin Xinyued fallen on her butt, gawking as if she was scared by something.


    I cursed myself under my breath for being careless. How could I forget to remind Yin Xinyue not to look behind? I didnt hesitate and quickly pulled her up.


    However, in an instant, Yin Xinyue, who weighed around forty-five kilograms, seemed to be five hundred kilograms. No matter how hard I tried to pull her, I couldnt gather the strength required to get up.


    No good! Something has happened!


    I began to sweat in fear. I didnt dare turn my head around to check behind me, so I had to call Li Mazi for help.


    Yet, when I turned my head to look at Li Mazi, I found him in the same situation as Yin Xinyue. He hadnded on his butt, his eyes staring behind him, although I had no idea what he was looking at.


    I called Li Mazis name twice but he didnt react to my call.


    Strange, whats going on?


    Did we bump into the legendary Human-Nailing Ghosts?


    A so-called Human-Nailing Ghost was actually just a ghost which entangled a person before fixing them onto the ground as though they were nailed to the floor by a copper nail. Typically, the person who was trapped became affixed to the ground so hard no one could move them.


    Damn, what should I do now?Ive heard about Human-Nailing Ghosts from my grandfather, but I dont know how to deal with them.


    I was stunned, and I looked at them nkly, unsure what to do.


    Right when I was preparing to call the old man for assistance, I heard Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue calling for help.


    I immediately turned around. I didnt know when it happened, but a thick, white fog had appeared behind me. I couldnt see a thing through the fog curtain and could only hear Li Mazis and Yin Xinyues voicesing from the area deep inside the fog.


    I shivered in fright, looking at the strange scene.


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue were sitting in front of me, so why were their voicesing from somewhere deep inside the fog? At the exact moment I turned around, I was shrouded in white fog. I cursed under my breath, thinking that when I had turned around, I identally blew off one of the mes on my shoulders.


    How unlucky!


    I seized the chance before the fog engulfed mepletely to crouch down and mark every direction. I didnt want to lose my way!


    What should I do now? Do I still have time to call the old man for help? What did Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi see that made them scream in fright?


    The more I thought about the situation, the more flustered I became. I couldnt think of any solution.


    Slowly, I found shadows swaying around me in the thick fog.


    It looked like many people approaching me from the fog.


    However, these peoples gaits were extremely strange. They were tiptoeing, craning their heads to the side, their necks long. I tried to clear the fog around me to get a better view, but I couldnt. The fog was too thick.


    Li Mazi, Yin Xinyue, are you there? I called out in the hope of receiving their answers.


    They did not respond, however. Perhaps they had encountered a ghostly wall, which blocked their senses from the outside world. This made it so that they couldnt see or hear anything outside the little world the wall had created.


    I could hardly imagine how horribly dangerous their situation was at this moment.


    If they were actually trapped inside the fog, who were the two next to me? What the hell had happened? I turned around and checked Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue. They were still sitting there, not moving an inch.


    The silhouettes in the fog didnte closer, and I was certain that the two Yang mes on my shoulders were still burning. That was why the figures didnt dare to approach me.


    All right,e attack me!I knew how to deal with the ghostly wall, anyway. I found a random willow and dug a pit there. Then, I poured urine into the pit before biting my finger to drip a drop of blood into the urine. After that, I broke a willow twig, dipped it in the pit of urine, then sprinkled it everywhere.


    I didnt expect this trick would work, but it did! The shadows seemed to be incredibly afraid of the urine, and the fog slowly thinned out at speed apparent to the naked eye.


    I perked up, my hand moving faster. Not long afterward, the fog dispersed. I exhaled, turning around to check Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi.


    At first nce, I was dumbstruck. Standing next to me wasnt Li Mazi or Yin Xinyue! They were two willow stumps! It was no wonder that I couldnt move them when I tried.


    Where are Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi?


    Just then, Yin Xinyues and Li Mazis voices sounded from afar. I guessed that they came from the direction of the old willow.


    Startled, I followed the voices.


    Eventually, I found Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue lying under the shade of the old willow. Although their eyes were closed, they were crying for help.The two had mud all over their bodies, and Li Mazis mouth was stuffed with soil. Both of his hands were moving as if he was trying to fight back against anyone who came near.


    Yin Xinyue kept pulling her hair, while shouting, Go away, go away! I was already prepared tofort them. However, as soon as I walked two steps forward, I felt as if countless eyes were looking at me from the willow tree.


    I couldnt help but shudder, and I stopped walking, lifting my head to observe the big willow tree.


    When my eyes reached the top of the willow tree, my nerves almost copsed. So many heads were hung on the willow tree. There were more than one hundred heads with disheveled hair!

 Chapter 88: Weaving Dolls

    Chapter 88: Weaving Dolls


    The various heads were covered in blood, with rolling, bulging eyes. Strangely, their eyes didnt have any pupils, disying only the sclera. Their icy looks gazed towards me, containing endless resentment and hatred!


    In that small instant of time, I thought I had brain hypoxia. I was so startled that I almost screamed.


    Despite my reaction, I was keenly aware that everything set before me was just an illusion. Immediately, I grabbed the willow twig and whipped it at Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue.


    The two stopped struggling and, slowly, they lifted their heads to look at me.


    I pulled at their hands, saying, We should leave this ce before talking. We need to exit this willow forest as soon as possible.


    Li Mazi trembled, looking at me as I turned to look at Yin Xinyue. When her eyes met mine, I saw that Yin Xinyue had the same frightened look as Li Mazi. The look on her face was as if she was staring at a monster.


    Are you okay? Looking at the duos facial expressions, I knew something was wrong, and I hurried to address them.


    Li Mazi opened his mouth first. Little Brother Zhang, are you a ghost or a human?!


    Of course, Im a human! I didnt know whether I should cry orugh after I heard that. We should get out of here!


    Li Mazi said, No, you''re lying. I just saw you wearing a chain of heads. You wanted to cut my head off too!


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Brother Zhang, I saw you crazily pulling my hair


    I couldnt help butugh. Just what kind of things did these two see? Inparison, my hallucination was much more boring; I had simply mistaken them for two tree stumps.


    I decided to quickly get over with it. Everything was just an illusion. Theres something wrong with that old willow. We should seize this chance and rush back to the vige.


    This time, I made sure to advise them, No matter what you hear, do not turn around. Even if you hear your mom calling you home for lunch, dont turn back. Thats the only way we can escape this willow forest.


    Eventually, when we escaped from the forest, the chilly air surrounding us vanished. Scared, I turned around to see the ominous forest. I still felt the fear creeping throughout my heart.


    What was that thing inside the willow forest?


    By the time we exited the forest, it waspletely dark.


    When we arrived at the old mans house, Li Mazi angrily kicked the door open. He raised his fist, ready to cause trouble.


    The old man had already put on his coat and lit up his kerosenemp, awaiting our return.


    I didnt know why, but my heart instantly rxed when I saw him. The terror I had just experienced was slowly suppressed.


    The old mans eyes scanned us before he asked, Why did youe back sote?


    Coldly, I threw the bunch of willow twigs onto the ground in front of him. Speak. Why did you try to harm me tonight?


    The old manughed. This task was meant to train you guys. Youve no experience, and unless youre trained properly, when you get to the graveyard, you will all be brought out as corpses!


    After speaking, the old man squatted down, carefully checking the willow twigs. Then, he shook his head, Not enough; pick more.


    Li Mazi was instantly enraged, shouting, If you want more, go get it. Even if you kill me, Im not going back to that forest. No human being should be subjected to a ce like that!


    The old man said, Dont get all riled up. Im just joking.


    Paying no attention to us, the old man began to haul out various tools from his house, including a hammer, nails, and a roll of colorful thread. He was ready for the mission.


    The old man hammered the steel nails into the ground and then folded a willow twig, wrapping it with the colorful thread. Soon, he had woven a human-shaped doll.


    Li Mazi was captivated by the old mans mysterious actions. He wasnt mad anymore, choosing instead to squat and observe, asking the old man what his creation was.


    The old man smiled and exined, This nail is seven inches long, and ites from the coffin of a woman who was raped to death.


    The spool of thread was made from dead human hair.


    And, about the oldest and biggest willow tree in that dark forest, it was watered with fresh human blood weekly. That was how it had grown so big and tall.


    Those were all Yin materials with extremely evil energy. It seemed that the old man wanted to use poison to treat poison, nning to use this little doll to erase the resentful energy attached to that golden silk quilt!


    I took a deep breath, looking skeptically at the old man. This thing will it work?


    The old man snorted. Of course! Ive been an otherworldly merchant for dozens of years. Ive eaten more hardships than you have rice. This trick works all the time. I have never failed before!


    Although the old man said so, I was still suspicious.


    I could see that the old man had just said that to coax us. If he had cared about us, when we visited the willow forest, he would have given us some advice.


    Even so, it was undeniable that, while standing before this old man, we couldnt help but look inexperienced and inept.


    The old man moved smoothly, clearly disying his experience. Eventually, the unruly willow twigs were folded andbined into little human-like dolls with arms, legs, and bodies. After this was done, he used cinnabar to draw eyes and a nose for them.


    Looking at the line of dolls, I couldnt help but smile. Why do you have to make so many of them?


    The old man answered, I want to make the golden quilt think that these dolls are humans and kill them. Once it has dealt with those dolls, I believe that the amount of resentful energy contained within the quilt will have been significantly depleted. At that time, we can take action.


    I was enlightened.


    Then, the old man used a pair of scissors to cut some small pieces of twig and ced them in between the dolls legs.


    Seeing this, Li Mazi burst outughing. Yin Xinyue blushed, muttering, Old pervert.


    I couldnt help but ask, Why do you need to make them so real? Why do these little dolls need a penis as well?


    The old man said, You arent aware of this, but even though this toy is small, the effect that it has cannot be understated. The golden quilt hates men the most, so it kills only men. With this tiny addition, the quilt will know that our little dolls here are all male. If you provided the quilt with a genderless or hard to identify object, it wouldnt work.


    I thought for a moment and couldnt help but praise the thoughtful old man. The old man sighed. I have this knowledge because Ive experienced a lot of things. In this otherworldly merchant business, if youre not attentive to things like this, youll die rather quickly.


    After he made the little dolls, the old man gave them some rough fabric clothes.


    From a distance, it was hard to tell if they were real, tiny humans, or just some twigs


    Seeing how it was around 11:30 PM, the old man handed me the little dolls, saying, Go, hurry! Remember, when you go to the graveyard, just throw these dolls to the quilt. Try your best not to show yourself. We dont want to lose our bait before we get the prey.


    If it doesnt work, you must run away. Even if you encounter something unexpected, you should never look back. Do you hear me?


    After our experience in the willow forest, we were sure to keep every word from the old man in our hearts. Even a slight moment of carelessness could bring about a great disaster.

 Chapter 89: Trap

    Chapter 89: Trap


    No problem. I gave him a slight nod and confirmed, I just need to wait for the golden silk quilt to cover the little dolls, and then I will bring that quilt to you, right?


    Receiving the old mans confirmation, I heaved a sigh of relief and set off with the others. It wasnt good to bring a big group as it was easily spotted. I wanted Yin Xinyue to stay and only Li Mazi and I would go. But Yin Xinyue said, Compared to the graveyard, Im more afraid of that odd old man.


    Right, I wasnt sure if that man was a gentleman. I couldnt put my mind at ease leaving Yin Xinyue, a great beauty, with him. So I took her along.


    Groping around in the night, we used the light from our shlights to get to the graveyard. Perhaps I had experienced this situation too many times, so I was not really scared.


    Throwing the little dolls towards the golden quilt, we hurried to hide behind a tombstone, trying to observe the situation from there.


    The night was dark and the wind was raging horribly. And as we were standing against the wind, we couldnt open our eyes properly and could barely see the little dolls.


    Since it was in a deste, mountainous area, it became a wildlife paradise when night fell.


    After staying here for a while, I saw green eyes flying around the graveyard. At the same time, we heard strange movements.


    Although we understood that those sounds came from wild cats or stray dogs, under such an atmosphere and seeing so many green eyes flying around, we were somewhat fearful. However, no matter how scared I was, my eyes never left the dolls.


    When it reached midnight, that was when negative energy was the thickest. I was certain that the quilt would take action


    Indeed, after an hour, I heard a woman sobbing at a grave in the center. Her voice was barely audible but it was really pitiable and mournful.


    When I heard her, my heart couldnt help but feel the same sadness.


    I joked, Li Mazi, dont you want to be a hero and rescue the beauty? Im sure that the sobbing woman needs somefort. Being provoked, Li Mazi red at me.


    The crying seemed toe from a distance, but somehow it sounded as though it was next to my ears. I felt flustered. It seemed to be very dangerous; it was no wonder that the old man said that we were not its match. I became more cautious. To avoid being possessed, I kept biting the tip of my tongue, using the pain to stimte my nerves.


    Right at that moment, the sorrowful sobbing stopped.


    We heard amotion from the grave the rich kid had dug up; it sounded like something was trying to climb out of it. I tried to open my eyes wide to see better. However, except for the mass of darkness, I saw nothing.


    Then, a scene out of a horror movie took ce. The golden quilt on the ground suddenly swelled as if someone had just gotten into it!


    Not good! Theres really a ghost here!


    And, from inside the quilt, a charming, female voice was heard, which wasnt different from the previous sobbing, Sir, youre here. Lets rest.


    Then, the quilt floated up, slowly flying toward the little dolls.


    Li Mazi hid behind the tombstone, shivering. Little Brother Zhang, I think I got it! Those two, before they died, Im sure they had fun with her. They mustve been overjoyed to make love with a ghost.


    I threw him a nce. Well, if you like, you can be on top.


    Li Mazi waved his hand dismissively. No, no, I still need to earn a lot of money


    Afterward, things went smoothly. The quilt covered the dolls, and the whole world quieted down. No more crying. No more rattling sounds. And even the raging winds had somewhat calmed.


    Now! I screamed then rushed toward the quilt. Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi followed close behind me.


    Although the quilt had just shrouded the dolls, it felt as if two people were sleeping inside.


    I knew one of them was the female ghost. Immediately, I stretched my arms, ready to grab the quilt.


    However, as soon as I got it, a boys voice rose behind me. Stop, dont touch it.


    I was scared, my legs felt weak. I turned around and found a short silhouette standing inside the graveyard. I didnt know when he had appeared there.


    Who is that boy? Why didn''t I hear anything when he approached us?


    Li Mazi jolted back. However, seeing that it was a little boy, he was enraged and scoffed, Its reallyte at night. Who are you? Are you trying to scare people to death?


    Hmph! You cant tell the good from the bad. That old man wants to harm you. Drop the quilt and head west; theres a small river. When you reach the river, all of you should jump in. No matter what happens, do not turn around. Just stay inside the river until the break of dawn.


    Of course, if you can stay there until dawn, I will save you. But if you cant make it to dawn, I wille to pick up your corpses


    The boy spoke with indifference, and listening to him made me shudder.


    That old man is plotting against us? Why would he want to harm us?


    I didnt want to believe this child.


    However, why did I feel his voice was familiar? It seemed that I had heard his voice somewhere before. So, I shone my shlight on him.


    When I saw the boys face, I almost screamed.


    He was no one else but the little brother of the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt, the little Daoist child who watched the gate of Mitu Temple in Hong Kong.


    How did he appear in this graveyard?


    Anyway, if he was with the Kumamon t-shirt man, I was sure I could trust him. I turned to snap at Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue, Why are you still standing there? Do as he says!


    I took the initiative and dropped the quilt, running towards the west.


    Along the way, my head was filled with questions.


    That Daoist child should be in Hong Kong, shouldnt he? Howe hes got to the Maind?


    And, why hadnt he made a sound while approaching us?


    Could the little boy be an imposter?


    The more I ran, the more disordered my thoughts became because I didnt know if it was our salvation or a bottomless abyss waiting ahead.


    While we were running, another familiar voice came from behind us. Zhang Jiulin, stop.


    That was the voice of the man in the Kumamon t-shirt.


    I reacted immediately, halting. Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue also stopped. Unconsciously, they were about to turn around to look at him.


    However, I still remembered what the Daoist boy had warned. I cried, Dont turn around. Continue running!


    Li Mazi cursed under his breath, Whos the bad guy, and whos the good guy here? Its a mess


    Reluctantly, I forced a smile. Just run, the faster the better. Head west. I dont think we will die here. Then, I sped up.


    As the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt had appeared out of the blue behind us, I felt something was off. So, I decided to ignore him.

 Chapter 90: Whom Should I Trust

    Chapter 90: Whom Should I Trust


    We ran on without stopping. The man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt kept screaming at us from behind to stop.


    Of course, we didnt. We had verified that the man behind us wasnt the mysterious man we knew. No matter what, what stood out most about him were his taciturnity and powerful tricks.


    If he wanted to stop us, he would have a hundred ways to do that. He would never just scream and caw like a crow.


    I didnt know how long we had run until we couldnt hear the voice calling after us anymore. And then, suddenly the old man wearing the military coat with his kerosenemp was standing in our way.


    He looked indignant. With bloodshot eyes, he asked me, Why didnt you bring me the quilt?


    I rolled my eyes, didnt mind him and just kept running forward.


    The man blocked our path one more time. I passed by him, saying coldly, Our savior came! I dont care what creature you are, but if you have any sense, get lost now!


    The old man didnt know if he shouldugh or cry as he said, Are you stupid? Those were the illusions the golden silk quilt created to deceive you.


    If you had brought me the quilt, I might have some way to deal with it. But now, its impossible the quilt is haunting you guys. If you want to live, you must go to my house. Hurry up! righteously urged the old man.


    Hearing his serious tone, my heart was shaken.


    Between the Daoist child and the old man, who is trying to help us? Who is trying to harm us?


    At this moment, I was more willing to have a bloody battle against the golden silk quilt than to try and twist my head around this problem.


    Li Mazi slowed down. He said with a weeping face, Little Brother Zhang, you shoulde up with a solution. Hurry! Who should we believe?


    I was hard-pressed and could only look at Yin Xinyue pleadingly. Yin Xinyue, Ill listen to you. A woman''s intuition is always right!


    Yin Xinyue thought a second and then shouted, Brother Zhang, just run! The old man seems a little strange.


    How do you know? As it was rted to our safety and our lives, Li Mazi didnt dare to act recklessly.


    His eyes, Yin Xinyue gasped. His eyes dont look like those of a man. Theyre a womans eyes.


    Thats right!I then recognized that although the old man was speaking righteously, his eyes were as gentle as water.


    Immediately, we elerated toward the west. The old man ran after us, however, he disappeared shortly after.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. It seemed Yin Xinyue was correct.


    However, the real danger had only just begun!


    As we were heading towards the river, Li Mazi suddenly stumbled and rolled on the ground like a pig being ughtered. I immediately helped him up. However, he balled his body, convulsing.


    I hurried to ask, Are you okay, Li Mazi? Keep going man, the river is right in front of us! He didnt seem to hear me. He convulsed, cursing loudly, Get lost, you filthy pig! Get lost!


    I took a deep breath, knowing that Li Mazi had been possessed.


    Determinedly, I shouldered him, turning to warn Yin Xinyue, Be careful. Bite your tongue and keep yourself awake all the time! The golden silk quilt is after us.


    Yin Xinyues beautiful face paled in fright at Li Mazis strange behavior.


    I carried Li Mazi on my shoulders, trying to run. Although my legs were sore and tired, I didnt dare to stop.


    Sir, where are you taking me? Out of the blue, a soft female voice spoke next to my ear. Panic-stricken, I cocked my head to one side and found Li Mazi smiling at me, his face smiling charmingly. I knew then that the female ghost had possessed Li Mazis body. I just ignored him and continued to run.


    However, the voice grew louder and louder, seriously affecting my mind, Sir, please dont run. Im so tired. Please stop and rest. We should rest.


    Shut up! I bellowed, biting the tip of my tongue.


    I was ready to use the blood from the tip of my tongue to expel the female ghost in Li Mazis body.


    However, before I could do that, Yin Xinyue, who was running next to me, halted. Surprised, I asked, Why arent you running, Xinyue?


    She suddenly turned and gave me an enchanting smile. Sir, if you dont stop, I will kill you. Then, she crouched on the ground like a hungry wolf. Her body arched, ready to attack at any minute.


    Oh shit, isnt it just one evil spirit living in that golden silk quilt?How can it possess two people at the same time?


    Helpless, I gritted my teeth and grabbed Yin Xinyue, preparing to force her to run.


    However, as soon as I grabbed her arm, she went wild, forcefully aiming and biting at my wrist.


    I gasped in agony.Damn, why did she bite me?


    Then, Li Mazi said softy, Youre as violent as always.


    "Stop talking nonsense." Yin Xinyues voice was much sharper. Many people admired your beauty and drooled for your talents. They used sweet words to get you. But they all left you. No one came to visit you when you were on your deathbed. Tell me, how can you not hate them?


    Its been so many years. How have you not given it up? Li Mazi sighed reluctantly. Men, they just want to y whenever they have a chance. Were just their toys. Even if we pester them, they wont wait for you.


    Hmph! If they dont wait for me and love me, Ill kill them. I will make them endure the agony I experienced, but one hundred times worse! snarled Yin Xinyue.


    All right, Li Mazi said glumly. Those men are already dead. You dont need to care about it anymore, do you? One day, a good man wille for you.


    You silly girl, Yin Xinyue said. They just love your body. Theres no such thing as a good man!


    Li Mazi shook his head reluctantly. Nothing can cure you


    Haha! Yin Xinyueughed crazily. Im you, and youre me. If theres no cure, you will follow me into the darkness!


    Then, Yin Xinyue, still crouching on the ground, readied to jump on me.


    Listening to the conversation, I got the gist of it. It was clear. Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue were possessed by the same female ghost.


    However, controlling them were two different personalities of the same ghost!


    One was her kind nature, and the other was hateful because of her love. Eventually, she developed a resentfully morbid character. She was like a patient with schizophrenia.


    Facing Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi in this circumstance, I was helpless.


    Seeing Yin Xinyue storming toward me, I turned and ran. They both chased after me.


    The little Daoist childs voice spoke in my ear. Run straight ahead. No matter what you encounter on the way, do not stop.


    As the duo was running after me, they also followed the instructions of the little Daoist child. Although it wasnt of their own will.


    The two were really fast. However, although they were fast, they didnt get along. One wanted to protect me while the other wanted to harm me. And so, along the way they kept quarreling and fighting.


    It looked funny to me, but I couldntugh. I was worried that Li Mazi could actually hurt Yin Xinyue.


    I didnt dare to turn around to check on them and just kept running toward the river. Was that the ce the boy wanted us to go to?


    Resolutely, I jumped directly into the river.


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue also jumped into the water at the same time.


    The moment they got into the water, they screamed painfully. Their voices werent that of the female ghost, but their own. It made me happy.


    Are they back now?


    As we were in the water, I didnt need to use much force to pull them up. I held the two of them in each hand.They both swallowed water as they went into the river. As soon as Li Mazi floated up, he coughed and stuck to my waist. Yin Xinyue seemed to be overwhelmed by the shock. I hurried to gently pat on her back. After she vomited mouthfuls of water, her face looked better.


    Li Mazi eyed me with his bright eyes, his face strange. Do you know what I think? I think youre getting cold. Should I knit a sweater for you?


    I was speechless. Li Mazi was rather amusing right now. I guessed it was a side-effect after the ghost possessed his body.


    Yin Xinyue also looked perplexed. What happened to me? I wanted to kill you.


    Iforted them, Youre alright now. You were just possessed by the ghost.


    Before I could finish, the other two were scared out of their wits, checking their surroundings.


    I couldnt do anything but try to calm them down, telling them to wait in the water and at the break of dawn, the little Daoist child woulde to save us. Only then did they sigh in relief.


    The water was bitterly cold, and from time to time, cold winds would blow. I shivered in the cold, my teeth ttering.


    At that moment, the sky was still dark. As our mobile phones were soaked, we couldnt check the time. We didnt know how we would pass this night.


    However, that wasnt what was giving me a headache. The most immediate problem was if the ghost would spare us now


    Would we encounter other dangers?

 Chapter 91: Resentful Twin Spirits

    Chapter 91: Resentful Twin Spirits


    When I thought about the situationter that day, I thought it was both scary and funny.


    Who could have imagined that we would bump into a ghost that was actually a patient with severe schizophrenia?


    Part of her wanted to harm us while another part of her wanted to protect us.


    In my circle of business, this kind of otherworldly item was really rare. They were even more precious than pandas. We called them twin otherworldly items.


    This sort of otherworldly item was also the most scary and harmful to people. You could not let your guard down because it would want to kill you one moment and then try to save you in the next moment.


    My mind was nk. I didnt know how to deal with this.


    Luckily for us, everything had quieted down since the time had we jumped into the small river. The female ghost didnt follow us. The bright moon hovered high in the sky and insects chirped.


    If we were on the shore, it would have been a nice night to spend outdoors. However, at this moment, we didnt dare go to thend.


    I would rather stay in the water for two days instead of spending the rest of the night on thend with such anxiety.


    Anyway, we didnt have any other choice.


    In a distance, the river surface began to bob. We could hear bubbling sounds as if something was trying to get up from the bottom.


    We immediately opened our eyes wide and stared at the water.


    The first thing that came to the surface was a mass of wet hair! The wet hair looked soft and messy. It scattered on the surface.


    Right after that, an extremely beautiful woman slowly arose.


    She was mesmerizing with delicate facial features and fair skin. Her long eyshes and bright, big eyes impressed me the most. She smiled.


    Her slender shoulders finally emerged. They enchanted me. The two red straps that crossed her shoulders brought endless enticement.


    We gawked in shock. How could a female ghost be so beautiful?


    At this moment, our brain stopped working. We didnt even notice that she was approaching us.


    I did not react until she drifted to us, reached out her freezing hands, and grabbed my legs. We needed to run!


    However, I opened my mouth but couldnt make a sound.


    My body couldnt even move as I was floating silently on the surface of the river.


    Li Mazi had swum away for two meters and found that I was still idle. He immediately turned around and tried to grab me. However, the water around me seemed to be as solid as ice, trapping me inside.


    I could only look at the beautiful woman smiling at me. Her mouth kept opening wider and wider until the corners of her mouth reached her ears. Blood streamed like tap water onto my face.


    Her hair began to peel off. Her face started to rot quickly. After around ten seconds, the beautifuldy had turned into a ghost. I was scared and my nerves went numb. I almost choked to death with the river water.


    Her hands that grabbed my legs were also rotting fast. I had just felt her warmth and softness and a momentter, they had be sharp bones that squeezed my legs!


    I felt a twinge in my legs that went through my skin. It was as if something was trying to dig hard into my skin, turning me rotten


    I was dumbstruck. No matter what, I had never experienced such a dangerous situation. The female ghost was too strong! How could she turn a living man into a decayed corpse?!


    As I was reaching my limit, I saw the woman in front of me slowly getting better.


    From her foul form, she had quickly turned into the shape of a singer from a brothel. She had long, ck hair and fair skin. It formed a sharp contrast with her decayed body from earlier.


    As the ghost transformed back into a beautiful woman, I felt my body heal quickly. This must be the ghosts good side, while that rotten corpse was her bad side.


    After she became beautiful, she smiled at me. Her smile didnt make me feel disgusted. I quite liked it.


    The ghost kept shifting her appearance like that for the rest of the night. My mood changed from frightened to mesmerized until the break of dawn. I thought I was tormented to the point that I would soon develop some mental disease.


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue stayed with me the whole time. They looked numb and watched the female ghost change her face repeatedly. Then, a beam of silver light shone from the East. My body was finally freed.


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue pulled me to the shore. I waspletely exhausted. I had no energy left in me and justid there, gasping for my breath.


    Li Mazi checked my body carefully. After he confirmed I wasnt harmed, he heaved a sigh of relief and smiled. Youre still alright. Everybody is okay. However, I want to ask you. How did you feel while the ghost served you the whole night? Are your kidneys still good?


    Get lost! I was enraged that Li Mazi was teasing me.


    Yin Xinyue was very tired. At this moment, she was already asleep.


    I was afraid that she was going to catch a cold. I let everyone rest for a while and then woke Yin Xinyue up. I asked them to warm themselves up.


    Yin Xinyue asked, Are we going to wait for the little Daoist child?


    Right, yesterday, the little Daoist child told us to wait for him at the riverside. If we survived, he woulde to save us.


    It was best to wait for him.


    After waiting for quite a long time, we didnt see the little boy. Instead, we saw a man and felt relief. He was Chuyi, the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt.


    He didnt say anything but squatted and checked my legs.


    He observed carefully then exhaled in relief. All right. Your legs werent affected by resentful energy.


    I asked Chuyi, Whats happening? Why did the old man want to harm me? Is he the one you told me was looking for me?


    The man shook his head. No, that old man actually wanted you to die in his grandsons stead. Thats why hed tried everything to deceive you and make you bring the quilt to him.


    The man continued. If you had taken that quilt yesterday, even if I was there, I wouldnt have been able to help you.


    I felt scared. That old man was toying me around!


    At the same time, I wondered,how did the mysterious man find us? Why the little Daoist childe to us?


    Chuyi hesitated. Eventually, he took out a small fragrant sachet. The sachet looked old with worn-out embroidery, and its color was somewhat faded. It looked crumpled in the mans hand.


    Using his slender fingers, he grabbed some hairs out of the sachet and said, This is the little Daoist child youve mentioned.


    I felt a chill run down my spine. In this instant, I realized something.


    Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi werent slow-witted. When they saw the hair, their faces turned pale.


    It turned out the boy wasnt a living human. He was a little ghost Chuyi was raising!


    No wonder the boy had acted strange. For example, he was living in an abandoned Daoist temple. He could also teleport from Hong Kong to the Maind. It all made sense now.


    I sighed and looked at the man in disbelief.


    Chuyi said coldly, Theres no need to be surprised. He was a little Daoist child beaten to death by some Red Guards during the Four Olds period. His resentment is hard to erase. I pitied him, so Ive kept him with me.


    After hearing his nonchnt answer, I had a feeling he was this strange because he kept a boy ghost with him.


    As for how the man found us, it was simple. He had used the circle.


    Once more, I felt the power of the circle. It seemed that within the circle, they could get news of secret matters such as this very quickly.

 Chapter 92: Swap Fate

    Chapter 92: Swap Fate


    Chuyi said, Youve provoked the quilt. We cant leave now. We must solve this problem first.


    I felt much safer with the mysterious man here. I asked, Do you have a n?


    The mysterious man said, We must find the old man first.


    We recovered then returned to the vige.


    After a whole night of soaking in the water, my legs were all numb. I had to limp all the way back.


    The man furrowed his brows. Eventually, he came and supported me.


    At this moment, my entire body was exhausted. My head spun, which made me feel dizzy and nauseous. I vomited several times. I started to hate the old man even more. I swore that I would give him a good lesson if I got my hands on him.


    However, when we arrived at the small lodge, the old man wasnt anywhere to be seen.


    Li Mazi gasped indignantly. He cursed the old man and wished him a horrible death. I was also upset. If I couldnt vent this anger, I would have to keep it in me for the rest of my life.


    Chuyi didnt fluster. He found a chair and sat down. Dont worry. That old man wille back tonight. Just wait here and youll see him.


    I was very tired. Iid on the old mans dirty bed and slept with all of my clothes on.


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue didnt want to stay in this filthy ce so they returned to the hotel.


    I felt fully protected with the mysterious man here. I had a great sleep and slept until the night came.


    When night fell, I was awakened by some strange squeaking noise. I opened my eyes and found Chuyi with his sword on his back. He was gazing at the corner of the room. The squeaking noise came from the remote corner.


    Looking at me, he said, Come and get the old man out.


    I didnt understand him and scanned the room. The old man? Where is he?


    The mysterious man pointed at the corner and on the ground was an old brick. Curiously, I walked over and picked up the brick. Then, I found a mouse hole behind the brick.


    I couldnt see anything through the mouse hole because it was too dark. However, it was true that the squeaking noise came from this hole.


    <em>Is Chuyi asking me to get the old man out of a mouse hole? What does he mean? The old mans a mouse spirit?</em>


    <em>Is he a mouse staying idle in his hole during the day and turns back to his human shape at night?</em>


    Before I could ask any questions, the man waved his hand and signaled at me to not talk. Then, he asked me to pee into the mouse hole.


    I didnt care if the old man was a mouse spirit or not. I could take a little revenge here, so I felt very pleased. Immediately, I peed into the mouse hole.


    Before I could finish, a silhouette dashed out of the mouse hole. Well, if it wasnt a big mouse, what else could it be?


    When I saw a big mouse, I was startled.


    The mouse was as big as an adults arm. ck hair covered its entire body. It had two small but congested eyes that checked the room stealthily before fleeing towards the door.


    The moment the mouse reached the door, Chuyi took action. He raised his hand and sprinkled some white powder around the mouse.


    After encountering a sprinkle of white powder, the big mouse didnt dare to move. Pretending to be pitiful, it looked at the man and hoped that he would release it.


    Of course, Chuyi wouldnt let it go. He said calmly, Wait here. The old man wille home soon


    I was surprised and asked the mysterious man, What does this mouse have to do with the old man?


    I felt like the old man and the mouse were alike. They both had a pointy mouth and cheeks, and even their habits and routines were the same. They were both filthy and ragged, and their ces were always filled with some sour smell.


    When Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue came, they saw me holding the mouse by its tail. Li Mazi burst outughing. Little Brother Zhang, what do you want with this mouse? Do you want to use it to ease your hunger tonight?


    I gave Li Mazi a fierce nce. You came and didnt bring me anything to eat. Ive been starving for the whole day.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. Of course, we couldnt forget about you.


    Then, Yin Xinyue took out two boxes of rice and stewed chicken from her car. I was starving. I threw the mouse to Li Mazi and asked him to hold it by its tail. Chuyi and I began to dig into our rice boxes.


    Meanwhile, Li Mazi kept asking why we needed to keep holding the mouse by its tail.


    The mysterious man was annoyed and said, That old man has swapped his fate with that mouse. In other words, the old man exists as the mouse, and the mouse exists as the old man. When his enemy found his whereabouts, they would have to look for the mouse and not the old man himself. Thats how he was able to survive until now.


    Li Mazi rolled his eyes. Does that really work?


    Chuyi nodded.


    Bewildered, I asked him, In the event that the mouse is killed, will the old man die as well?


    The man answered, Its not easy to kill this mouse. Moreover, even if we can kill it, the old man could still swap his fate with another mouse.


    Unless his longevity came to an end, the others would find it very hard to take his life


    Feeling pensive, I nodded.


    Since we had this mouse in our grasp, it wasnt different from holding the old mans life in our hands! We didnt need to worry about him not showing himself!


    Later that night, Chuyi sprinkled some white powder around the room then asked Li Mazi to release the mouse.


    The mouse curled up its body inside the white powder circle and didnt dare to move. Its round eyes rolled around.


    Around more than ten minutester, the mouse couldnt stay calm anymore. It rushed around, digging and biting. It was trying to get rid of the circle.


    However, how could it escape the circle so easily? Everything was in vain, and it had to stay put.


    I was surprised and asked the man, Whats going on?


    The old mans nearby.


    Li Mazi immediately felt enraged. He picked up a stick on the ground and spat coldly, Old man, show yourself! Otherwise, I will pound this mouse to death!


    Awkwardughter was heard from the door.


    The door opened. The old man wearing a coat entered the house. He looked at Chuyi and greeted him respectfully. Chuyi, why are you here?


    Chuyi snorted. If I didnte, would they still be alive and be able to stand here?


    The old man felt embarrassed and rubbed his head. Dont be mad. I didnt know they were your friends.


    Li Mazi and I surrounded the old man, threatening him.


    His face paled. Friends, please dont get mad. I did that for your own good!


    I clenched my teeth and seethed in anger. You bastard! You did it for my own good? Whats good in it for me?


    If you wont tell us the truth, then I will tear you apart today! Li Mazi rolled his eyes and looked really scary.


    The old man said with a smile, Oh, you didnt know? Someones stalking you. I just thought that rather than letting you die in their hands, it would be better if you could help me a bit first. Youd also umte some virtue this way. Moreover, if you fell into their hands, you would have met an extremely tragic end.


    I was dumbstruck. What the old man was talking about just now and what Chuyi had told me was obviously the same matter.


    Chuyi seemed to care about this matter even more than I did. He asked immediately, Do you know who is investigating their whereabouts? Tell me.


    The old man said, In the circle of otherworldly items, only the Longquan Vi has this ability. Didnt you know this?

 Chapter 93: Liu Rushi

    Chapter 93: Liu Rushi


    Chuyi said coldly, So it was them.


    I felt a little depressed for a while. Why the Longquan Vi again?


    I heard its because of the Myriad Corpse Lamp. I dont know the details, said the old man.


    <em>The Myriad Corpse Lamp?</em> I took a deep breath. It was just an otherworldly item. Why did that organization want to kill me over it?


    Chuyi did not want the old man to say too much. He threw him a re, which made him shut his mouth.


    If the mysterious man didnt want me to know, I wouldnt ask further. I just asked him, How should I deal with the golden silk quilt tonight?


    Chuyi furrowed his brows. Do you know who the owner of that quilt is?


    I shook my head.


    It belongs to a prostitute in the Ming Dynasty. Her name was Liu Rushi, the man exined. Im guessing you already know her story?


    Liu Rushi? I was startled. I never thought an ordinary-looking otherworldly item could be rted to Liu Rushi. Immediately after hearing this, I understood the importance of the quilt.


    Of course, I knew Liu Rushis stories. It was because of her legendary beauty and talents that were enough to move anybody who worked in the Cultural and Literature industries.


    Liu Rushi was a smart and eager-learning girl. However, due to her poor family circumstances, she was sold and became a prostitute in Qinhuai Rivers Red Light District. Not only was she young and beautiful, but she was also talented in writing poems, ying chess, ying musical instruments, and drawing. Shortly after, she had be the head of Qinhuais Eight Beauties. She held thebel of selling her talent but not her body, which had touched a lot of young mens hearts from noble and rich families.


    Although Liu Rushi married three times, all of her marriages ended in tragedies.


    In her brightest days, she used to be the wife of a Grand Secretary. This status had made the entire Qinhuai Rivers Red Light District envious of her.


    She was such a beautiful woman with exquisite talents. However, during the worst moment of her life, no man came to see her. She was wrapped in a quilt and left this world with a deep grudge.


    We were all frightened by the history of the quilt. No one could imagine that it was thest possession of an unrivaled and talented woman before her death.


    The old man said, Thats not right. Didnt Liu Rushi die in Changshu, Jiangsu Province? How could her body appear here?


    Chuyi exined, Its true that Liu Rushi died in Changshu. On the day of her death, the noble officials and the rich men that had promised her the world all avoided her because of her special identity. No one showed up. Eventually, the other prostitutes had to collect money and move Liu Rushis coffin to some other ce to bury


    In the circle of otherworldly items, this quilt is called Golden Perianth. Rumor has it that if any woman wraps this quilt around her body, Liu Rushi will favor her. She will be devastatingly beautiful. No man will be able to resist her beauty. But, who could ever have thought that this quilt was full of Liu Rushis resentment?


    Thats morbid, Li Mazi said. Who would think that wrapping a dead persons remnant around their body would make them devastatingly beautiful? They dont have brains, do they?


    Chuyi said, No matter whether its spring, summer, autumn or winter, this quilt is always icy cold. If its used to wrap the body, even in mid-summer, the body wont be dposed. The corpse will even look like its smiling. Thats why people strongly believe that the quilt has some supernatural power.


    That icy cold poweres from Liu Rushis heart, Yin Xinyue said. She devoted herself to her lovers for her entire life, just to find out that no man had feelings of true love for her. At this moment, anybody could feel that her heart was as cold as ice.


    I sighed heavily.


    The old man said fiercely, Dont make her look that innocent! She was dead already, but why did she have to kill my grandson too?!


    Chuyi rolled his eyes at the old man. If your grandson didnt provoke the quilt, would something happen to him? Im sure he had harassed Liu Rushis body. Thats why he got a nasty end.


    The old man smiled awkwardly. He didnt say another word.


    Zhang Jiulin, tonight you will deal with the Golden Perianth! All of a sudden, the mysterious man pointed his finger at me.


    I was scared. Are you sure I can do that? Isnt it too dangerous? Ive seen how fierce the Golden Perianth is.


    The mysterious man said, Dont worry. As long as you listen to me, there wont be any danger.


    The sky quickly turned dark. After the man had checked his items, he brought us to the graveyard.


    The temperature was a little chilly tonight. The northern wind was raging and there was not a single twinkling star in the sky.


    I was anxious since Chuyi had asked me to be the bait. That meant that I had to sleep with that quilt!


    After we got there, Chuyi and the others hid. I took a deep breath and puffed a cigarette. I even had two sips of strong liquor to warm up my body and get more courage. Then, I proceeded toward the quilt.


    Recently, two people had died in this graveyard. Under such circumstances, if I said that I wasnt scared, that would be a lie. However, my heart was assured after thinking about Chuyi and the other people watching over me.


    I faced the quilt and bowed to greet it. I said to the quilt, Its gettingte. We should sleep.


    Then, I got under the quilt.


    The quilt had a stench of mud and the smell of corpses, which was a horriblebination of smells. It made me nauseous, but I tried not to vomit. Then, I forced myself to think about good things in order to drift into sleep easier.


    The Golden Perianth was really cold. It felt like a mini freezer. Feeling so cold, I shivered.


    I was in a strange situation. In such a chilling environment, it was abnormal that people could sleep. However, I was yawning constantly. I felt like I couldnt control my mind and I was very sleepy.


    I bit the tip of my tongue to warn myself to not sleep at any cost. If I closed my eyes, perhaps I would never be able to open them again!


    While I was heavy with drowsiness, a familiar voice arose in my ears. It was a womans voice that came from the unearthed grave.


    My nerves went tense immediately!


    Shortly after, I felt someone lift a corner of the quilt and slither in.


    That thing felt so cold, but it had an intoxicating body fragrance that made me feel extremely restless.


    I knew it must be the spirit living in the Golden Perianth.


    Her hands rubbed my chest and gave me warmth. However, I couldnt open my eyes so I could only say what Chuyi had told me. Its gettingte. We should sleep already.


    Darling. The other party suddenly cried, Ill leave you soon. Would you be sad?


    Dont be silly, I answered.


    Haiz, she sighed. Do all men deceive women like this? Turn around.


    I turned around and found that I could open my eyes now. At first nce, I was dumbstruck.


    At this moment, I was in avish room.


    From the decoration and furniture arrangement, I knew I was in a brothel in the Ming Dynasty with carved screens and lovebird candles. I was in bed with a beautiful woman.


    This woman looked gorgeous. She had red lips that outlined her white teeth. Her bright eyes studied me. Her mouth hung a faint smile, but it had a touch of sadness and pain.


    Under the gaze of her deep eyes, I felt my heart soften. At the same time, I was filled with fear and inferiority.


    Looking at her noble beauty, I felt I had a higher social status.


    She asked, Darling, if I be ugly and poor one day, will you ever leave me?


    I smiled. Why would you say such silly things? I wouldnt do that. Once husband and wife, lovers forever. I will continue to favor you. No matter how much you change, I will stay by your side. I will never leave you.


    She heaved a sigh and talked quietly. Im afraid youre lying to me. You men dont love me. Youre just ying around.


    I am telling the truth, I answered.


    Really? She suddenly sneered. Then, lets see if you truly love me.


    Everything went ck in front of my eyes. When the surroundings lit up again, I was scared out of my breath!

 Chapter 94: There Is Only You

    Chapter 94: There Is Only You


    It was a funeral hall!


    The lights from the candles flickered, setting off an atmosphere of sadness.


    At this moment, I saw Liu Rushi lying inside a red wooden coffin.


    The unrivaled, talented beauty was now just a cold corpse.


    Her face was wrinkled and her skin was pale. She didnt glow anymore. There were two dark circles under her eyes, which made her look like a woman in her thirties. Her bloodied eyes made me feel afraid.


    Although my fear had reached the pinnacle, I tried to suppress it. I told myself to stay calm. Otherwise, I could die here.


    Are you scared? asked Liu Rushi.


    Her lips didnt move and she didnt blink. Her hoarse voice came deep from her throat, making me shudder.


    No, Im not. I took a deep breath then said, Well live and grow old together until our hair turns white. That was my promise to you, and Im nning to fulfill it now. Actually, how about we go together? On our way to the afterworld, I can take care of you.


    Her body shook violently. Tears lingered in her eyes. You you really wont leave me?


    No, I wont. I smiled and wiped her tears. I still want to be with you in our next lives.


    She sighed then burst out crying.


    Her appearance changed back. She was now mesmerizingly beautiful. The funeral hall gradually turned into the scene of a brothel.


    You should leave, she said. Im not worthy of your love. Its enough for me to know your love and thoughts of me.


    Liu Rushi sat on her bed and looked through her window. Faint sorrow clouded her eyes.


    No, youre really good, I told her. Come with me! Leave this ce. Theres no love here. Lets go to a ce you truly belong.


    Can can I really? She cooed. But where?


    Give me your hand. I smiled. Come with me. I will take you with me.


    She felt very touched and looked at me. She then gave me a slight nod.


    I held her hand and walked East as Chuyi had instructed me to.


    She followed closely behind me and held onto my hand tightly. Her eyes never left me even for a moment. She was afraid that I would disappear if she blinked.


    I didnt know how long we had walked until I heard the mysterious mans voice.


    When I opened my eyes, I found myself lying under the quilt. My entire body was freezing cold and my legs were numb.


    Its okay now, said Chuyi. He was standing next to me.


    The old man immediately pulled me out of the Golden Perianth. He took out a small, white porcin bottle and dipped a twig into it. Then he sprinkled the water onto my legs. Eventually, my legs resumed their mobility. Then, the old man sprinkled some on the golden quilt before carefully folding it.


    I looked at Chuyi and asked, Has the resentment inside the Golden Perianth been settled?


    The man nodded. Yeah, but youd better find the quilt a new owner soon. You should go to Qinhuai River and sell it to a predestined prostitute. Thats how we can close the case without any worry


    I nodded then squatted. I picked up the Golden Perianth.


    I didnt know if I was hallucinating, but the previously stinky quilt now had the scent of a woman''s body. This scent could seep into people''s hearts. It was exactly the same as what I had sensed in my recent dream.


    Did Liu Rushie here? Perhaps only she could answer this question.


    Chuyi said that he needed to solve some important matters so he needed to leave.


    Before he left, he repeatedly asked the old man to take care of us.


    The old man agreed.


    After the man left, I asked the old man, How can I go to Qinhuai River? I wont take any chances with Nanjings highways. If people from the Longquan Vi spot me, I will be in trouble.


    The old man threw a small bottle at me and scoffed. Youre a bunch of chickens. How could Chuyi befriend people like you guys? Remember this. Before getting on the highway, each of you need to open the bottle and take a sip. Then after every twelve hours, you will need to take another sip.


    Whats this? Li Mazi curiously swayed the small china bottle.


    Earth Dragons urine. Do you want to drink it or not? If you dont want it, give it back to me. Im reluctant to give you such a precious thing.


    Li Mazi asked in puzzlement, What Earth Dragon?


    The guy in your hand, said the old man. He sounded enraged.


    Li Mazi couldnt help butugh as he held the mouse. You mean this big mouse? You wanted us to drink a mouses piss? How could youe up with this idea?


    Seeing that the old man wanted to take the bottle back, I hurried to stop Li Mazi. I was sure that this item was priceless.


    The old man could buy ten cities with his assets, but he seemed reluctant to give this item away.


    We bid the old man farewell then departed with the Golden Perianth.


    I didnt know if it was the Earth Dragon urines effect, but I was high-spirited along the way. I had been driving for several hours, but I didnt feel flustered or tired. Nobody had bothered us, either.


    Because of the strict control in the scenic area, we could only use the bus to go to the Qinhuai River after we had arrived in Nanjing.


    The Golden Perianths matter had already spread in the circle.


    Every day, people came to see the Golden Perianth in waves. Most of them were antique businessmen. However, they just wanted to see the item. They didnt have any desire to buy it since they were all men. The Golden Perianth was neither useful nor beneficial to them. Rather, it was harmful.


    Eventually, the Golden Perianth was sold to a young pseudo-model for the price of two million renminbi.


    She looked tender and full of grace. She wore revealing clothes and drove a Mercedes-Benz. Needless to say, she was a mistress some rich man had provided for


    Since the Golden Perianth could make a woman more attractive, it was a powerful weapon for a mistress.


    After closing the deal, I wasnt excited at all. I wondered if I was going to help or harm the pseudo-model by selling her the Golden Perianth.


    Sometimes women are reallyplicated while other times, they are really simple.


    They put in a lot of effort to find a man who would never leave them.


    However, what did this world have the most? Unfaithful men! Those silly women had betted and wasted their youth on those men.


    I couldnt help but remember a song.


    How many people admired you when you were young? And how many are still willing to love you once youre old?


    How many people in your life havee and gone? However, as long as I can have you, I will always be by your side.


    Compared to this woman, Liu Rushi, whom I apanied to the afterworld, was much happier.

 Chapter 95: The Odd Ship Owner

    Chapter 95: The Odd Ship Owner


    I was happy to receive two million renminbi out of nowhere, thanks to the Gold Perianth.


    Of course, since three people had worked on this case, we divided up the money equally.


    After we had taken our shares, there was some extra money that we couldnt split up. Yin Xinyue said that we should use it for the traveling fee to Nanjing and that we were going to have a luxurious trip. This ce had been the capital for six dynasties. If we traveled around, perhaps we could bump into some more otherworldly items.


    I nodded and agreed. However, Li Mazis heart ached.


    Although it was winter, Nanjing was still beautiful. We walked along the banks of Quinhuai River and admired the old architecture. Our souls felt refreshed.


    The areas around Qinhuai River had been renovated into many big and small hotels and inns. Since we were in a scenic area, the inn costs were really high. We decided to have fun and spent the night on a flowership above Qinhuai River.


    Li Mazi joked, Well, weve got meat and liquor here. We just need women. If I were born during ancient times, Im sure I would go to Qinhuai River every night to listen to those singers. If I could see Liu Rushi when she was at her prime, I wouldnt regret it if I had to die young.


    I felt that Li Mazi would die on some womans belly one day


    However, when we got on the ship at night, something odd happened.


    The ship owner was a middle-aged man. I guessed he was forty-something. He was drinking with his friends at the front deck. Since they were drunk, they were very loud. It disturbed everyones sleep.


    Li Mazi was enraged. He went to talk to the ship owner many times, but the ship owner didnt want to quiet down.


    As a result, Li Mazi waspletely infuriated. He rolled his sleeves and prepared for a fight.


    We werent from the area, so it wasnt wise to quarrel with the locals. I pulled Li Mazi back to his room and talked him into letting it go. Tomorrow, we would move to some inn.


    Li Mazi agreed. However, it didnt take long for the anger that he had tried to suppress to burst out again.


    I was worried that he would cross the line, so I tried harder to talk him out of it.


    Li Mazi smiled. Little Brother Zhang, dont you worry! Look, they are gambling out there. Im going out to y with him. If I win, I wont take a penny from him. Instead, Ill ask him to shut his mouth.


    I thought this was a good idea.


    I was aware of Li Mazis gambling talent. I agreed with him and said nothing more.


    Li Mazi returned shortly after. However, the ship owner raised his voice louder and louder.


    Looking at Li Mazis irritated face, I asked, Did you lose?


    Li Mazi balled his fingers into fists. I didnt lose! I won three damn games in a row, but he didnt keep his promise.


    I patted his shoulder and asked him to not think too much about it. Lets just enjoy the night.


    We gradually fell asleep despite the loud noises from the ship owner.


    After midnight, I was awakened by Li Mazis crazyughter.


    Enraged, I scolded, Its already thiste, what the hell are you?


    Li Mazi was very excited and pulled me up from my bed. Quick,e out here. Look at the ship owner! Hes running around naked! Oh shoot, he didnt keep his word earlier when we gambled, but look at him now, hes fulfilling his promise


    I rushed out of the cabin and looked. Indeed, a naked, grown man was running wildly around the deck. He had nothing on his body and his eyes were wide-open. He walked in an orderly manner. It didnt look like he was sleep-walking at all.


    I asked Li Mazi, Whats going on?


    Li Mazi said, When I gambled with him, the conditions were, if I win, he shuts up. Otherwise, he has to run around the ship naked.


    The ship owner had agreed earlier but when Li Mazi won, he didnt keep his words. Thats why Li Mazi was enraged earlier.


    Who could have imagined that the ship owner would keep his promise at such a strange time... After he sent his customers off, he began to run wild and naked at midnight.


    Li Mazi said, This is a precious moment to remember! Then, he used his phone to record the scene and posted it to his circle of friends on WeChat.


    I was speechless. I didnt know how or why we had encountered such a bizarre situation.


    However, I doubted that the ship owner had done it to keep his promise. There must have been another reason for him running.


    Anyway, I was sleepy and didnt want to think much about it. I returned back to my room and slept.


    On the second day, we wanted to leave the flower ship and move into some inn. However, when we walked back from Dr. Sun Yat-sens Mausoleum, my legs were extremely sore. I wasnt in the mood to find another hotel. We continued to stay on the flower ship.


    When we returned to the ship, we found the ship owner quarreling with a woman. We listened in and figured out that the married couple wanted to divorce.


    The ship owner had promised that if they divorced, the ship would belong to his wife. Now, he had changed his mind. He gritted his teeth and said that he had never promised anything like that.


    I gave a reluctant smile. It seemed the ship owner was unreliable. He didnt take responsibility for his words.


    Eventually, the woman left crying. She had no choice. If the man didnt agree, she wouldnt have ownership of the ship.


    Before we left, the ship owner cursed his wife one more time. That shameless woman. Even if she kills herself, I wont give her this ship!


    Later, the ship owner acted strange. He sat at the bow of the ship with nk eyes. He stared at the floatingnterns in the distance.


    The cold moonlight shone on him, stretching his shadow. His face was pale and he wore thin clothes. The wind blew over, billowing the hems of his shirt. He didnt seem to feel cold and just sat like that. He looked strange.


    It was reallyte at night and a man was sitting at the ships bow with such a strange appearance. His appearance reminded people of many horrible old stories.


    I reluctantly smiled. It seemed that the ship owner was hurt, and he would be depressed for a while.


    I didnt really think much about it and went back to my room to sleep.


    However, not long after I had slept, I was startled. I heard someone screaming.


    When we got out of the cabins, we were speechless.


    We never would have thought that the ship owner, the one who had persistently denied to give up the ownership of this ship to his wife, had already moored his ship and invited a notary from the court. He directly apologized to his wife and said that he was a filthy animal and an irresponsible, lying husband. He was now willing to give this ship to his wife unconditionally.


    I could only imagine how speechless and perplexed his wife was feeling


    The procedure waspleted smoothly. The ship was now under his wifes ownership.


    It wasnt hard to recognize that to him, losing this ship was like a buffalo losing a strand of hair. Since he could invite some notary from the court at midnight, he was somewhat a powerful man in Nanjing.


    When the man signed the paperwork to hand over such a big ship to his wife, his hand didnt shake at all. It seemed he didnt care about this little loss of his assets. Damn, this is a rich man''s world. We poor people will never understand!


    Although I could earn millions,pared to the local businessmen who got rich by tourism, I was a lot less wealthy.


    During the night, the ship owner collected his clothes and moved out. Of course, we didnt care about this.


    I returned to my room to sleep.


    I was awakened by a loud noise early in the morning. It was the ship owner. He was crying again.


    That bastard was driving me crazy. It was two days in a row now. We couldnt even spend one day in peace! If he got a mental illness, how did it get so bad?


    Li Mazi put on his clothes. He sat with a hot teapot and watched the fun. Little brother, I think that itll be a really good idea to buy a house by Qinhuai River! We could have some entertaining drama to watch every day. We dont even need a TV!


    I yawned continuously. Whats going on? Why is that ship owner crying again?


    Li Mazi smiled. Well, what else could it be? He gave away this shipst night. His heart aches now!


    After listening to the ship owner sob for a while, I had a guess about what was going on...

 Chapter 96: Who Wants To Kill You?

    Chapter 96: Who Wants To Kill You?


    The ship owner didnt want to admit that he had given the rights of the ship to his wifest night. He argued with his wife and used her of using dirty tricks.


    Of course, his wife was enraged. Resolutely, she called the notary who had been therest night. She even showed him the video recording and the signed contract.


    The ship owner gawked in shock. He insisted that he had signed the paper while sleep-walking. He imed he wasnt clear-headed at the time.


    Of course, no one believed him. Eventually, his wife called the police to arrest the ship owner and charged him for deliberately starting a fight.


    These two were really interesting. I couldnt hold in myughter. Indeed, it was more melodramatic than any soap opera I had ever watched


    Of course, as it had nothing to do with me, I didnt really care.


    It was good that the ship owner was arrested. At least I could sleep better at night now.


    We spent the next few days in Nanjing. Yin Xinyue had told us, If we dont spend our money to thest dime, I wont leave!


    My hands were tied in front of such a beautifuldy. Feeling helpless, I apanied and traveled around Nanjing with her.


    Around one weekter, we were so tired aftering back from the Purple Mountain Observatory. We couldnt even walk quickly.


    When we returned to our ship lodge, we found a beggar squatting by Qinhuai River Bank.


    That beggar was really bold toe to this scenic area.


    Wasnt he afraid of the citys management forceing and arresting him?


    Anyways, it wasnt easy to earn a living. We just walked away and didnt pay much attention to him.


    However, the moment we walked past him, the beggar lifted his head to look at us. Then, he stormed over like a hungry man that saw a slice of bread. Benefactors, please save me! Benefactors!


    We were startled by the beggars sudden move. When he wiped his dirty fringe that covered his face, we gawked in shock.


    This beggar was none other than the ship owner!


    Gosh, two days ago he still looked neat and clean. How did he turn like this after getting out of the police station?


    The foul smell from his body made people retreat. I hurried and took two steps back.


    Li Mazi also recognized him. He dropped his jaw in astonishment; his mouth was so wide open that I could put an egg in it. Well, well, isnt this our ship owner? Whats going on? Are you trying to experience life in a better way?


    Li Mazi teased him. The ship owner had be a beggar and Li Mazi was still teasing him. Was it really necessary to act like this?


    However, the ship owner looked strange.


    He was rich because of tourism. How could it be possible for him to change into this pathetic appearance just after several days?


    He had called us his benefactors and asked us to save his life I was perplexed and didnt know what he was up to.


    Yin Xinyue pulled me and signaled for me to ignore him and hurry up!


    I give her a slight nod.


    However, the ship owner persistently held us back. He stood in front of us. Then all of a sudden, he got on his knees. Benefactors, please save my life. Someone wants to kill me. Only you can save me. Whats going on here?


    I couldnt help butugh and asked him, You want money, dont you?


    He shook his head. No, I have money. I have money. If you save me, I will give you money


    Then, he thrust his dirty hand into his pocket. Shortly after, he fished out a stack of cash. All of them were one-hundred yuan banknotes. Although they looked dirty, they werent fake.


    Whats going on? He has money and hes acting as a beggar?


    I havent eaten anything for several days. If you dont help me today, I will be killed. The ship owner talked in a disorderly manner. His words didnt match up and he made me greatly confused.


    Youre too kind. Li Mazi put the money into his bag. He patted the ship owners shoulder. Come, let me take you out for dinner.


    The ship owner shook his head continuously. No, I cant! I cant talk to them! I cant reveal myself. They will kill me!


    I frowned and asked, How many people were killed during the Nanjing Massacre?


    Three hundred thousand, answered the ship owner without hesitation.


    Where were the 2008 Olympic Games held?


    "Beijing."


    I asked him several questions in a row about well-known topics. The ship owner had answered all of them correctly. I verified that he didnt just babble out of madness. This was actually something he had experienced.


    If he came to us, he must have known who we were. I guessed he was troubled by some otherworldly item.


    I took a deep breath. Okay,e with us. I will get you some food.


    I bought some cooked food and followed the ship owner to his ce. We let him shower and change into clean clothes. After he had some food and water, some color returned to his face.


    I asked, Why do you want us to help you? What can we do to help you?


    The ship owner was devouring roasted duck and said, I know you are otherworldly merchants and that you collect strange items.


    After listening to him, I felt an ache.


    How did he know my identity?


    The ship owner told me that many people in Nanjing knew me.


    As Nanjing had been the imperial city of six dynasties, the antique business here was really flourishing. As such, there was a good chance of seeing an otherworldly item. It was the reason why otherworldly merchants were more than weed in Nanjing.


    After the auction of the Golden Perianth by Qinhuai River, many otherworldly merchants had arrived. Naturally, my story became widespread.


    It seemed like we shouldnt stay here anymore. Otherwise, the people from the Longquan Vi would soone to me.


    The ship owner also said that he was an admirer of antiques. He had enough antiques in his house to open a museum.


    I nodded and felt pensive.


    He suspected that he was keeping an otherworldly item in his house! He felt that the item had caused all of his troubles. He didnt have any other wish but for us to help him find that otherworldly item. As long as we agreed to help him, he would pay whatever we wanted.


    I furrowed my brows. I had heard about murderous otherworldly items, but I had never heard anything about any otherworldly item that could turn a man into a beggar.


    What is the real problem in the end? I hurriedly asked.


    The ship owner sighed helplessly. Haiz, I have two problems. The first problem, I drink too much and I love bragging. The second problem, Im too faithful to my words. As long as I have said it, no matter how difficult, I will have to fulfill the promise. Sigh, it has tormented me a lot


    I furrowed my brows and didnt quite understand him. You said you always have to keep your words. Thats why youve turned into this?


    The ship owner nodded repeatedly. Then, he told us what had happened to him recently.


    He told us about the night he was running around naked on the ship.


    When he made a bet with Li Mazi, he said that if he lost, he would shut his mouth. Otherwise, he would run around the ship naked. After he lost the game, he changed his mind.


    Later that night, he woke up and found himself naked and running around the ship. He didnt understand it and felt very scared.


    Another example happened several days ago. In order to trick his wife into agreeing to a divorce, he said that he would give her the ship.


    Then, he handed the ship to his wife during the night. In both these situations, he had done them unconsciously.


    He had done the same things before many times.


    In the past, he had a metal workshop. Business wasnt bad. However, after bragging about a football game with his buddy, he said he would give away his metal workshop if the Chinese team got to the next round.


    That year, the Chinese football team didnt y badly. They sessfully reached the next round


    His friend thought that he was just joking and didnt actually believe it. However, at night, the ship owner came and gave his metal workshop to his buddy. Up to now, that friend was stillmenting about the owners wealth and that he was a man of his word.


    His properties and assets had been given away or closed one after another because of his bragging. Once a rich man, he was now a beggar on the street.


    I didnt know why but I wanted tough.


    This otherworldly item was really special. It wasnt like the others! This was the first time I had encountered such circumstances.


    I smiled and patted the ship owners shoulder. Then what happened? You said someone wants to kill you. What happened?


    The ship owner thought that I didnt buy his story and determinedly lifted his shirt to show me his belly.


    After seeing his stomach, I was sweating in fright!


    His stomach had so many wounds. There were cuts from knives, scratches from spoons, forks, and puncture wounds by sharp objects. I could even see some teeth marks. His skin was almost bitten off.


    Feeling disgusted, Li Mazi quickly asked him to cover his belly.


    The ship owner sat on the chair in dismay. If you dont save me tonight, I will have to die


    Who wants to kill you? I asked.

 Chapter 97: Secret Treasure Room

    Chapter 97: Secret Treasure Room


    The ship owner shook his head and said, Myself.


    You, yourself? I couldnt believe it and stared at him.


    The ship owner cried and exined. All these wounds are my doing.


    During thest few days, he had gotten arrested and stayed in a cell with some gangsters.


    Those gangsters often bullied him because he looked honest and nice.


    Eventually, the ship owner couldnt stand it anymore. His bad habits arose. He told the other party that he knew their boss and that he was their bosss brother.


    Of course, the gangsters didnt believe him. The ship owner swore, If I tell a lie, then I will kill myself!


    He never would have thought that around midnight, he would keep his promise. He stood up on his bed and was prepared to kill himself. He tried to bite his belly several times. He used his toothbrush to stab himself and he even tried to bite his tongue off in an attempt tomit suicide.


    However, he was lucky that the police station was diligent in protecting the prisoners. His suicide attempts were quickly discovered and were stopped. That was why he had not seeded yet.


    However, the ship owner knew that if he didnt kill himself, the otherworldly item wouldnt spare him. That was why he came to us and begged for our help.


    After listening to him, we were speechless.


    We could picture him using the toothbrush to stab himself. I could imagine him biting his tongue. But how he could bite his own belly?


    It was hard to imagine that the ship owner had twisted his body in an attempt to bite his belly like a yogi at midnight. It was really scary.


    The ship owner told us that he didnt remember what had happened. He could only remember that when he woke up, he felt his waist hurting. It hurt so badly that he wanted to cry.


    Li Mazi asked, Why didn''t you buy food?


    The ship owner said, Because I found a loophole to avoid the problem. As long as I dont talk to other people and I dress in a way that no one can recognize me, that thing wont have control over me


    Iughed. The ship owner had been tortured to the point where he had almost lost his mind.


    I asked him, Do you have any skeptical antiques on you? Perhaps that otherworldly item is always with you.


    He shook his head and said, Its not that simple.


    At first, he had also thought that it was something he wore that had some supernatural power. He tried taking off all different kinds of chains and rings and locked them into a safe in his room. He also moved out and tried his best to stay away from those items.


    However, it was useless. He couldnt escape the curse


    The ship owner even thought that some ghost had tagged along with him. He thought that this was why he couldnt escape.


    I pondered and nodded my head. I had never heard of this symptom.


    It would have been good if Chuyi was here. I was sure he could find the otherworldly item within seconds.


    Just like when we encountered the Golden Perianth, the mysterious man had recognized the item at first nce. Sigh, we needed a lot more experience.


    I dialed his number.


    However, his phone was turned off, just like the times I had called him in the past. I felt a little distressed.


    Actually, I didnt care too much about the ship owners problem. I had just earned some money and I didnt want to take any more risks.


    Eventually, Li Mazi had a solution. Your grandfather knew that old man, right? He worked as an otherworldly merchant for many years. I think he must know the origin of that thing. Perhaps he could tell us how to deal with it.


    Right, since we had ess to him, it would be a waste to not go to him for help.


    Then, I took out the phone and called the old man.


    Li Mazi pulled the ship owner to the corner and talked about themission.


    The old man sounded really friendly and polite at first. Hey, how are you doing? Is Chuyi still with you guys?


    I told him he wasnt.


    The damn old man began to fume. Its good that hes not there. I have restrained myself long enough. Dont think that Im afraid of you. I just put up a polite front in front of him. You dared to touch my life-bound mouse. You should be thankful that I didnt kill you. You shameless bastard. Now youre calling me for help?


    I didnt know if I should have cried or smiled. This old man was really interesting. Feeling helpless, I looked at Li Mazi. Li Mazi was enraged and asked me to hand him the phone.


    Then, Li Mazi and the old man began to shout and curse at one another. They poured out their hearts and swore that they would scold the other to death.


    Seeing them quarrel lively, I didnt want to interrupt


    Alright, if I cant find external help, I will have to do it myself.


    Now we had to start with the first step. We needed to find the otherworldly item.


    I asked the ship owner, Could you let us see the room where you keep your antiques? I need to study the ones that are the most suspicious.


    The ship owner hesitated for a while. He looked at the sky then said, We dont have much time. We must go now! If that wretched woman doesnt allow me to board the ship, Ill take her down with me!


    Then, with some courage, the ship owner took us back to his former ship.


    The ship owners wife was somewhat beautiful. She used to be some model or a contestant in a beauty pageant. When we arrived, she was wearing a bikini. We saw her sitting on the deck, ying with a foreigner. They wereughing and chatting lively.


    After seeing us, the woman pulled herself together and gave us a nk stare. Why are you here?


    You have no shame, the ship owner scolded. Im here to take my stuff.


    Nothing belongs to you here, said the ship owners wife. When you transferred the properties to me, everything went under my name. I can show you the contract.


    Get lost! bellowed the ship owner. Those items were bought with the money I worked hard to earn. Why would they belong to you?


    After watching the two quarrel, even the beefy foreigner wanted to join in the fight. Yin Xinyue and I couldnt help but step forward and persuade the two to stop fighting. Regardless of who was right, there was a mans life on the line. We hoped the ship owners wife would show mercy and let us take a look at the antique storage room on the ship. Once we found the otherworldly item, we would leave. We would not touch anything else in the room.


    The ship owners wife hesitated. Eventually, she nodded. Okay, fine! But Im warning you. If you dare to y tricks, it won''t end here!


    These two were so hostile, it was as if they had killed each others father.


    The ship owner led us to a small cabin on the ship. This cabin was dark and filled with many misceneous items, such as life jackets and the likes. It didnt look like a room to store antiques.


    However, who would have ever thought that this cabin hid a secret. After the ship owner cleared a remote corner, a small door was revealed.


    I had heard that rich people in Nanjing liked to store private belongings in secret ces, but I didnt expect to bump into one during this trip.


    After the small door was pushed open, a really wide space was uncovered. It was around fifty square meters.


    The space was packed with ss boxes of different sizes. This was where he had disyed his collection.


    No wonder the ship owner said that his antiques were enough to fill a museum. He didnt lie about that. A rich man''s world was something ordinary people like us could never understand. They had so many items but it wasnt for trading. It was just a hobby.


    I looked at Li Mazis face and knew he regretted offering such a low price for this job.


    One could imagine how difficult it would be to find an otherworldly item from this big pile of antiques. I walked around the colorful antiques and tried to investigate. I already had a headache.


    In theory, an otherworldly item had a touch of evilness. This was directly rted to its age.


    In other words, the older the item, the eviler it was!


    The ship owners situation must have started because of some really old otherworldly item. If most of the antiques here were dated to the Ming Dynasty, the Qing Dynasty, or eventer, with one or two older items in the middle, then our searching range would be much smaller.


    However, it was really hard since the ship owner was not interested in ordinary antiques. The items he kept here were all from the old ages. I had even spotted a set of bells that dated from the Warring States Period. I dropped my jaw when I saw them.


    It was going to be impossible to pinpoint the otherworldly item with the naked eye.We had no other option. We had to wait for the night toe.

 Chapter 98: Being Stalked

    Chapter 98: Being Stalked


    I told the ship owner my idea and he looked even more anxious than us.


    He told us, Im now exposed. Im sure I will try tomit suicide again tonight. If we cant solve this case now, we cant sleep tonight. Please watch over me and stop me from killing myself.


    I nodded. No problem. I wasnt going to sleep tonight anyway!


    Since I knew nothing about the otherworldly items origin, I couldnt prepare the tools. I just grabbed two bags of refined salt. I hoped they would work tonight!


    Naturally, the ship owners wife wouldnt let us stay the night on the ship. We were toozy to care about her, so we just let the ship owner deal with this matter.


    I didnt know whether the ship owner had promised her something good or if he had threatened her, but in short, she had agreed to let us stay here for several days.


    At night, we gathered in the cabin.


    To prevent the ship owner from killing himself, Li Mazi prepared an iron chain and tied him to a chair.


    Furthermore, to avoid the ship owner from biting his own tongue tomit suicide, Li Mazi pulled off his smelly sock and shoved it into the poor mans mouth.


    Although the man wasnt willing at all, he was under special circumstances and couldnt do anything about it


    Yin Xinyue looked at the ship owner and chuckled. We look more like kidnappers now.


    Li Mazi half-joked, How about we do it for real? If we sell all the antiques here, we can get enough money tost for dozens of years.


    I could see the ship owners face turn pale.


    We were afraid that there could be a circuit shortage in this small chamber so we had prepped some candles and shlights. Once everything was ready, we spread the mattress on the ground andid there. However, we didnt go to sleep.


    After the Golden Perianths story, we had learned our lesson. What if we fell asleep and a banshee jumped out of nowhere and controlled us in our dream?


    Under such torment, time ticked by pretty slowly. I felt bored and checked Yin Xinyues mobile phone.


    Yin Xinyues phone had captured a lot of moments during our trip. While Li Mazi made funny poses in the photos, I didnt know where to put my hand. This difference was really amusing.


    After browsing through the photos for a while, I suddenly spotted a problem.


    In all these photos, there was a person with their back facing us, standing not far away from us.


    The posture and clothing were very simr in each photo.


    I was startled.


    Are we being stalked?


    I immediately scrolled and checked all the photos one more time, this time more carefully.


    After checking, a chill ran down my spine. In every single picture, no matter if it was inside Sun Yat-sens Mausoleum or on the Purple Mountain Observatory, there was a woman behind us the entire time!


    She wore a short-sleeved, blue and white shirt and a pair of ck leather trousers. She had long hair that apanied her not-so-bad figure. She must be a beautiful woman.


    This finding made me shudder.


    Why would she want to keep track of us?


    Howe we had never noticed anything during the entire trip?


    I hurried to show the photos to Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue. After they had confirmed my findings, they were scared and looked pale.


    I found the earliest photo of that person.


    It was the time we had bought the tickets to Qinhuai Rivers scenic area. At that time, I was lining up and Li Mazi had just bought a steaming-hot breakfast. We were eating while waiting. The woman was at the end of the line.


    I took a deep breath. I didnt know that people started stalking us as soon as we had arrived in Nanjing.


    At this moment, my heart flustered. This woman had kept watch on us for quite a long time but didnt take any action. I was certain that she had some scheme nned.


    If we still continued to ignore it, the consequences would be really terrible.


    I wasnt a man of justice. I was just an ordinary antique businessman. I wasnt that determined to abandon my life in order to save someone elses.


    That was why I made up my mind quietly. If we couldnt solve the ship owners case tonight, we wouldnt care about it further. Tomorrow, we will leave Nanjing.


    I shared my thoughts with Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi. They agreed with me.


    We guessed the woman was unaware that we knew she was stalking us. Once we leave, we would surely disrupt her n.


    We had made up our mind, but tonight, we would try our best to save the ship owner.


    My eyes returned to him.


    I had to admit, this ship owner was really brave. Under such frightening circumstances, he had already drifted away into sleep


    Of course, we couldnt rule out that the otherworldly item had affected him and made him sleep. Bad things happened whenever he slept.


    We had been waiting for around one hour when the ship owner began to act strangely.


    The muscles on his face contracted and green veins bulged. We could tell that he was gnawing his teeth in anger. Damn, it seems he wants to bite off his tongue andmit suicide!


    Luckily, Li Mazis sock was thick. No matter how hard he had forced himself, he couldnt bite his tongue.


    The scene was even more shocking because the ship owner had his eyes closed the entire time. This scene was really frightening.


    He seemed to recognize that he couldnt justmit suicide by biting his tongue. Then his body started to move.


    I moved forward and carefully studied the ship owner.


    The moment I walked forward, the ship owner suddenly opened his eyes. I was startled and my heart throbbed.


    I was confused. Normally when a person was possessed, the host would show how hot-tempered or angry he was.


    But the ship owner that was tied in front of me didnt show any symptoms. After seeing me, his face went so calm and the corners of his mouth widened he was smiling at me.


    I took a deep breath and said, Who the hell are you? Why do you want to torture him?


    Loud breathing noises came from the ship owners throat. His legs began to kick crazily and his body struggled unconsciously.


    No matter how hard he struggled, the strange smile on his face remained. It was so different from his wiggling body.


    I was really worried that he would eventually break the iron chain. Hurriedly, I tore a bag of salt and sprinkled it onto his body in an effort to suppress the evil force inside him.


    However, the refined salt didnt work. The man struggled harder and harder. He had even lifted the chair he was tied to. The chair fell to the ground. He grumbled repeatedly.


    I immediately shouted at Li Mazi. Check the collection room meticulously to see if any antique there is reacting!


    Li Mazi was scared and asked me, How would the otherworldly item react to the ship owner? What would it look like?


    I was annoyed. How would I know! Just use your eyes!


    Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue hurried to check the ss boxes with the antiques inside.


    I did not expect the otherworldly item to know our intention. The man stopped struggling. He calmly looked at me and the grin on his face became wider!


    That damn thing is smart!


    I knew that if the otherworldly item didnt cause trouble, it wouldnt produce a resonance with the host. As such, Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue wouldn''t find anything strange. I had no choice but to call them back.


    Pfffftttt!


    Everything had been quiet for a moment until the ship owner farted.


    His fart sounded like a burst of a balloon. More importantly, it smelled much worse than an ordinary fart. It could be as stinky as that from a weasel. I wrinkled my nose and didnt dare to breathe.


    Then, another loud fart came. This one was even more powerful than the previous one. Shortly after, the horrible stench permeated the entire room


    Since we were in a storage cabin, there was no window. Helplessly, we had to open the door to take in the fresh air. However, the door was too small so it didnt really work.


    I was desperate and thought that we would be choked to death. If that happened, we would be a big joke to the others!


    I recalled a time when I watched some soap drama where someone had foam at the corners of his mouth after inhaling a fart. At the time, I had cursed the writer for writing such a brainless situation. I thought at the time, how could a fart be that powerful?


    But now, as I finally experienced the power of a fart, I knew it was really scary. I could feel that I was just a step away from having foam at the corners of my mouth


    Eventually, Yin Xinyue was the first one who couldnt stand it anymore. I had no choice but to let her out. I thought about asking her to go and buy two gas masks. However, after thinking about it, I just put that thought aside.


    Since someone was watching us, it would have been really dangerous to let Yin Xinyue go out alone.


    In the end, the ship owner was tied tightly and he couldnt kill himself. I felt assured and left the cabin with Li Mazi, watching it from outside.


    That ship owner seemed to be addicted to farting. He had farted every ten or so minutes.


    Fortunately, Li Mazi found an electric fan in the cabin. He turned it on, and it was still working. We set it up at the door and used it to ventte the room.


    Li Mazi asked me worriedly, Could the ship owner fart to death? Well, I dont think he can. I have never heard of anyone die like this.


    Yin Xinyue felt ufortable and kept pinching her nose. However, she still managed to joke around. Well, the ship owner really liked to talk nonsense [1], but now that all the air in his stomach is gone, perhaps he wont babble anymore?


    Yeah, this is possible. I couldnt help butugh out loudly. In my mind, the status of otherworldly merchants dropped sharply.


    I guessed we were really useless as we had to endure some guys farting.


    To prevent any incident from happening to the ship owner, we had to check on him from time to time.


    The ship owner seemed like he was going to pass out from his own farts. His face turned from pale to red, then ck and ashen. Although he was struggling to breathe, he could manage to keep himself alive. For the time being, his life wasnt in danger.


    Perhaps because he wascking oxygen, he had some foam at the corners of his mouth. It seemed the dramatic details in those soap dramas werent just fabricated. There was some scientific basis.


    Around 4 AM, the ship owner finally stopped struggling. He closed his eyes and the smile disappeared from his face. He quieted down.


    I pinched my nose and rushed in. I patted his face.


    The ship owner coughed his lungs out and wasnt in the right headspace. He cursed us for throwing him into this poisonous chamber and thought that we had tried to kill him and take his wealth.


    I didnt bother quarrelling with him. It was understandable that he wasnt in the right mind after a whole night of smelling his own farts. I untied the ship owner and carried him to the front deck.


    Even when he was on the front deck, his face still grimaced. He slumped helplessly on the ground and looked at us with nk eyes.


    He rested and drank some water before finally pulling himself together.


    However, he looked at us with a hostile attitude. You bastards, what have you done to me..? Cough


    What happened to my throat?


    Do you have a fetish of farting a lot? asked Li Mazi.


    Damn, its you who has such a fetish! The ship owner scolded. What have you done to me? Why does my butt hurt so much?


    Well, you farted all night long yesterday, I replied. You farted a lot. I think it must have been some effect from that otherworldly item.


    He was bewildered. Looking at his face, I knew he couldnt ept this. That otherworldly item can make people fart? Thats really disgusting.


    Its good, I said. At least youre still alive.


    Still alive... the ship owner said absent-mindedly. But I feel so weak now. I feel like I got poisoned. Oh right, did you make any progress? Did you find the otherworldly item? What is it?


    1. Talking nonsense and farting use the same character in Chinese.

 Chapter 99: The Deadly Wall Clock

    Chapter 99: The Deadly Wall Clock


    I shook my head. No, its beyond our capacity. We cant help it either. Youd better find another expert!


    No, the ship owner said resolutely. I already found you guys. You guys must help me solve this. Dont you otherworldly merchants have a rule? As long as you ept the mission, you must see it through to the end!


    But I dont have a solution. I forced a smile. If we keep doing this, we will just waste each others time. Eventually, you will die faster.


    The ship owner sighed. Ill be honest with you. I have asked many experts but they were either swindlers or havent mastered their skills. Thats why I had to endure a lot of hardship. After consulting an expert in this field, I was told that an otherworldly merchant who could deal with the Golden Perianth is capable of dealing with the thing thats been pestering me. Please dont deny that. Sometimes, being humble isnt really good.


    After listening to the strange words from the ship owner, I knew he had some dark scheme in his head. What do you mean? We cant help you with this case.


    The ship owner spoke coldly. You want to let it go and ignore me? I dont think youre able to face the consequences.


    Li Mazi snarled indignantly. Why dont you try to call the police and have me arrested?! We didnt kill anybody nor did we burn any house. Im telling you, Im not afraid of you.


    The ship owner talked at a moderate pace. If you donthelp me, I wont survive the night. If I die in a strange manner tonight, do you think you can deny that you know me? No matter what, everyone on this ship has seen you guys tie me up. When the timees, even if you have more mouths, you wont be able to defend or exin yourselves


    After listening to the ship owners tone of voice, I started to feel irritated.


    How could I be that careless? I have been an otherworldly merchant for several years, and I shouldnt have made such a rookie mistake!


    I suddenly recalled the rule that my grandpa told me.


    Ignore it for a lifetime or take care of it for a lifetime!Am I really bound by such an invisible rule?


    The more I thought about it, the more usible it had be in my mind. I couldnt help but curse under my breath.


    The ship owner was being reasonable. It was true that we couldnt just brush our hands and walk away.


    Although I had a terrible headache, I could only agree with him. I would have toe up with a solution.


    Anyway, Li Mazi had concluded that the ship owner was trying to threaten us, so he didnt want to join this mission any further.


    I clearly understood his bad intentions. He simply wanted to increase themission. Eventually, the ship owner agreed to triple the price.


    I decided to study the situation more thoroughly.


    Yesterday, the ship owner had farted the whole night, and I dont think that the otherworldly item wanted to tease us. There must have been some purpose. So, what was its purpose?


    I felt like it wanted to use the stench to cover itself and prevent us from spotting it.


    Well, if it wanted to hide, we would break its protective barriers and expose it!


    I made a list of things and asked the ship owner to prepare them.


    Rhino horn, peach wood, a machete some butcher had used to ughter buffalos, and even some oxs tears.


    Looking at the list of unfamiliar items, the ship owner annoyedly asked me why I needed these.


    I told him, Just prepare them timely. You dont need to think about what to do with them.


    Those items were really rare. Especially in Nanjing, where there were strict rules, rhino horn trading was banned. However, the ship owner still managed to find a rhino horn in the end.


    After he had collected all the required items, I asked him to buy four gas masks.


    Then, we returned to the small cabin one more time.


    Since we got the gas masks this time, even if he had made a big fart, I wouldnt bat an eye.


    But now, I had a headacheWere the things wed prepared even going to work?


    When the night fell, we opened the door to help ventte the room. Then, we did what we had done yesterday: We tied the ship owner tightly onto a chair.


    Tonight, the ship owner was smarter because he had learned from his experience. Before we tied him, he had taken out a piece of sponge from his pocket and put it into his mouth. By doing this, he didnt need to eat Li Mazis stinky sock.


    After we had prepared everything, we squatted by the door and watched.


    At first, everything was calm. From midnight onward, the ship owner began to grit his teeth and struggled hard. Since we were prepared, we werent worried. Meticulously, we walked around and checked the antiques in the room. We wanted to see if any antique would react strangely.


    After one round, nothing happened.


    I knew that this item had some intelligence. It was aware that we were well-prepared today, so it didnt want to create a bigmotion. The ship owner shook for a while then drifted into sleep.


    I held the rhino horn and began to walk around the storage room. The rhino horn had a natural scent that would produce a special reaction to any otherworldly item that exuded a stinky smell. Otherworldly items with different attributes would have different reactions. I just needed to check the rhino horn to determine the area of the otherworldly item.


    However, I had been too optimistic. The room was perfectly normal, and I did not spot anything strange.


    I became doubtful.


    What if that otherworldly item isnt stored in this collection room?


    It was impossible though. Yesterday, that item had controlled the ship owner and made him fart, preventing me from finding it. It was enough to prove that the item was kept in this room.


    Tonight, the otherworldly item didnt do anything to conceal itself, which was weird.


    Could someone have stolen that otherworldly item when we werent paying attention?


    A horrible thought suddenly popped up in my head.


    I immediately called Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue and asked them to check if there was an empty ss box or any item that had been reced.


    However, we werent familiar with the items in this room. After checking, we didnt see anything missing.


    Eventually, we thought we should ask the ship owner to check the room.


    I checked on the ship owner and found him sitting on his chair, but his eyes were fixed on something. His mouth fell open and his face turned from green to purple. It seemed the man wasnt breathing.


    I was startled and followed the ship owners gaze.


    A clock hung on the opposite wall. That clock looked pretty in and ordinary. However, after gazing at it for several seconds, I immediately felt dizzy.


    Right after that, I felt a massive hand trying to strangle my neck, preventing me from breathing. I couldnt even move my eyes away and just kept staring at the clock. It was just a short period of one minute, but it felt like I was almost throttled to death.


    Hey, hey, hey! However, right at this moment, I heard Li Mazis voice.


    As Li Mazi shook me, I was finally able to move my gaze away and breathe normally. I squatted and gasped for my breath.


    While trying to control my breathing,


    I thought about the ship owner.


    I had been suppressed for one minute and was almost killed. What about the ship owner, who had been strangled for a longer time?


    I said nothing and kicked the ship owner.


    The ship owner and his chair fell to the ground. When he fell, he screeched. Then, he used thest bits of his strength to breathe. He was shivering, hating that he couldnt just suck in all the air in the room.


    Li Mazi was confused and looked at us in bewilderment. What happened to you two?


    At this moment, I was still frightened.


    My limbs were all numb and I struggled to move them. However, I mustered thest bit of my strength and jumped up, took off the clock from the wall, and turned it face-down onto the ground. Dont look at this clock. Its evil.


    Li Mazi was taken aback. Since when was this thing hanging there? I didnt notice itst night.


    I said, We dont have time now. Hurry, check if the ship owners still alive. We cant afford him dying here or else we will all be in danger!


    It was good that the ship owner was slowly recovering.


    However, he was struggling to breathe. His body was convulsing, and his saliva dripped from the corners of his mouth.


    Without hesitation, I untied him from the iron chain and let him lie on the ground. At the same time, I massaged his chest to facilitate his breathing.


    When the ship owner resumed his consciousness, he screeched and cried, saying that he had just experienced a walk around the gate to Hell. He had even seen the Ox-Head and Horse-Face guardians as they were preparing to take his soul

 Chapter 100: Borrowing a Knife to Kill

    Chapter 100: Borrowing a Knife to Kill


    Looking at the ship owners appearance, we knew he was about to copse. As we were at a critical juncture, if he copsed, it would be extremely adverse for us.


    I hurried tofort him so he wouldnt be fearful. I lied to him that we had solved the otherworldly item issue, and there would be no more danger to him.


    The owner exhaled, feeling relieved. However, he was still scared, his face ashen. I almost lost my life. That was damn scary!


    I asked him to check if any of his antiques were missing or been reced.


    The ship owner nodded. He started to walk around and check every item of his collection. Eventually, he screamed, Oh, wheres my Ban Liang [1]? I put my Ban Liang here. How could it be a bronze spoon? Who snuck into my collection room?


    Ban Liang? Li Mazi was dumbstruck. Whats that?


    I thought for a moment then exined, The Ban Liang must be a type ofmon currency in the Qin Dynasty, right?


    The ship owner nodded repeatedly. Right, it was a currency back in the Qin Dynasty.


    In that era, Qin Shihuang unified the six nations, creating the first feudal court in history: the Qin Dynasty.


    To make it easier for the people to trade, Qin Shihuang created a currency that was used nationwide. Since these coins weighed around half a tael each, the folks called them Ban Liang coins.


    Do you know that wall clock? I suddenly changed the topic, pointing directly at the wall clock.


    The ship owner checked the wall clock, immediately scoffing, Who brought to this room the clock Empress Dowager Cixi used to have? Its a national-level treasure that I have always kept in a safe.


    Open the wall clock and see if you can find your Ban Liang there I could guess what had happened so I calmly directed the ship owner.


    The ship owner immediately walked forward and opened the wall clock. When he opened it, he saw his Ban Liang coin, tied to the clocks pendulum. He said strangely, Did you do this?


    I shook my head. Weve been with you the whole day. And we dont have the key to this cabin. Think about it, who has the key to this room?


    The ship owner pondered for a while. Then, he yelled in uncontroble rage, Only my wife has it! That little bitch plotted against me! When I get out of here, Im going to kill her!


    If things had gone as hed said, everything would make sense.


    It was possible that the ship owners wife was coveting his assets, which made her arrange for an otherworldly item to be sent to him. That thing had affected him, making him do as he said.


    And now, as she had gotten the ship under her name, in order to keep the secret from us, she hid the Ban Liang coin inside the wall clock. She intended to murder us indirectly.


    Damn, what a venomous woman!


    And, when I contemted this, I suddenly remembered something.


    It seemed that it also was her scheme for us to stay on this ship...


    At that time, she had tugged on the tour guide and winked. However, she tried to avoid us so we would not see her face Then, the tour guide suggested that we stay and enjoy the night over the Qinhuai River.


    Her purpose was simple. She wanted to frame us.


    Or, she had already nned how to kill the ship owner but needed an alibi for his death. The police wouldnt believe the story of some otherworldly item killing a person.


    Thus, she took advantage of the fact that we were looking for the otherworldly item to design her murderous scheme. Then, she would barge into the room  the murder scene  with the police. With witnesses and evidence, we wouldnt be able to wash ourselves of this crime even if we jumped into the Yellow River.


    I shared my thoughts with the others. After they heard what I thought, they couldnt hold in their rage. They all wanted to find that evil woman to settle things with her!


    However, when we went to open the door of the small cabin, we gawked in shock. The only door to the chamber had been locked from the outside and it seemed that there was something pressed against the door. No matter how hard we pushed, it didnt budge.


    We tried to peep through the slit and found yellow sand spilling through from the other side of the door.


    She wants to trap us here!


    The ship owner was so enraged that his green veins were bulging out. He went on a tirade in this small storage. Taking out his phone, he tried to make an emergency call, however, there was no signal.


    We couldnt continue like this. We had to find an exit!


    I hurriedly called out to the ship owner, Are there any venttors?


    The ship owner shook his head like a rattle drum. Theres only one door in this cabin and no venttors. Since were above water, the moisture is high. I was afraid it would go through the venttor and affect my antiques.


    I said, Then we must try to save oxygen, or else, we will die from suffocation.


    The ship owner sat down in annoyance. He took out a bronze vase from a ss box and hugged it. I asked him, What are you doing? He answered, Im trying to calm down. He indeed loved his antiques as much as he treasured his life.


    I suddenly remembered the woman who had been following us and that we had captured her in our photos. So I asked Yin Xinyue to show the ship owner her photo and see if he knew her.


    It wasnt surprising that when the ship owner saw the photo, he gasped and asked, Its my wife! Why was that bitch following you guys?


    Everything hade to this, and the ship owner hadnt realized the truth. I admired his stupidity.


    I told him my conclusion and the ship owner became even more desperate. I knew it! How can it be so coincidental that you guys are staying on my ship! Now I remember that it was my wifes friend who told me about you guys, that you are otherworldly merchants and you could help me! Damn it, she plotted everything!


    I nced at Yin Xinyue and noticed something wrong. She was always cheerful but now she was balled in a corner, immobile and silent, her face pale.


    Even when we had faced death, I had never seen her that frightened. I hurriedly approached her and asked, Yin Xinyue, are you all right?


    Yin Xinyue spoke with difficulty, I-I... cant breathe I feel like Im suffocating


    It was impossible though. Although this cabin was closed tight, we still had sufficient oxygen. It shouldnt cause any breathing troubles for the time being.


    However, I soon understood. Perhaps Yin Xinyue had ustrophobia.


    I tried to coax her, Its okay. That doors notpletely closed. Theres more airing through the slit.


    However, she was still terrified. I couldnt do anything else but lead her to the stairs connecting to the door and seat her there. I told her that oxygen is lighter than carbon dioxide so it would float above and that sitting there would help her breathe easier. My suggestion worked as some color returned to her face.


    The ship owner asked, Have you solved the otherworldly item problem? Will I continue to try and kill myselfter?


    I sighed. Its still giving me a headache. Im sure its not going to let you go yet. It will still torture you to the point that you would rather die.


    But, if the ship owner died here, I was afraid we wouldnt get out alive. We would be used of murder.


    Thinking about it over and over, I couldnte up with any other solution but to tell the ship owner. If you dont want to die, you must be tied to the chair again


    He was reluctant, but he knew there was no other way. He could only nod in agreement.


    Right when we had just prepared the chair and the iron chain to tie the ship owner again, the lights in the chamber turned off one after another.


    Crap, it seems that the ship owners wife just cut off the power!She must have been lingering out there and eavesdropping on us!


    The ship owner instantly went mad, screaming and shouting. However, his wife seemed to be very patient. She didnt answer, just staying silent outside.


    However, while the ship owner was screaming, he suddenly paused


    It wasnt natural. A moment ago, he was still talking. But all of a sudden, his voice disappeared as if someone had muted him by covering his mouth.


    I tensed, looking in the ship owners general direction. However, in the pitch-ck room, I couldnt see anything. It wasnt a normal silence and made us flustered as we could sense something had happened. Li Mazi couldnt endure it. He hurried to ask, Brother, hey, are you okay? Why did you stop cursing?


    However, the ship owner didnt answer, and the room remained dead silent.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ban_Liang

 Chapter 101: Panic-Stricken in the Secret Chamber

    Chapter 101: Panic-Stricken in the Secret Chamber


    Li Mazi determinedly groped his way to the ship owner, and patted his shoulder. Hey man, how are you? Dont be afraid of that bitch. Were here to help you.


    Right at that moment, I heard amotion. It seemed someone or something was walking around the room.


    Whos there? Li Mazi asked nervously. Dont run around. Its so dark here, it wont be good if you break some antiques.


    I listened carefully and determined that the noise came from around Li Mazi.


    Either Li Mazi or the ship owner were walking around!


    I immediately prompted, Li Mazi, grab the ship owner and dont let him run wild! It seems the man has problems again. Find the chain and tie him up!


    Li Mazi took a deep breath then said shakily, Little Brother Zhang, dont tease me. Its you whos running around, right? Because Im holding the ship owner by his shoulder.


    Hearing that, my heart twitched. Not good, something has happened!


    I hurriedly called out, Yin Xinyue, turn on your shlight. Lets see whats happened!


    She shivered as she replied, Yeah. Then, she switched on her shlight.


    However, as soon as she did that, she screamed and dropped her shlight. It rolled down the stairs as it turned off.


    I was taken aback. What happened?


    Yin Xinyues voice trembled in fear, The ship owner he-hes a ghost!


    What?! Li Mazi shrieked and tried to run away. However, he had forgotten that we were inside a narrow storage chamber. Thus, after two steps he hit a shelf and face-nted on the ground.


    I pulled him up and helped him steady himself.


    Still shivering, Li Mazi asked, Yin Xinyue, how do you know that the ship owner is a ghost?


    His legs were walking around you, Yin Xinyue said, but his upper body stayed put as you were grabbing him.


    Let alone Yin Xinyue, if I had seen that, I would have been scared witless.


    The ship owners upper body and lower body were separated? And his lower body could walk around on its own?


    Li Mazi and I couldnt help but tremble.


    Yin Xinyue, seize this chance ande to us, I said. Its safer to stay together.


    Yin Xinyue stumbled, trying to get off the stairs. After she clutched my arm, she stood in the corner.


    Hey, ship owner, do you hear me? Actually, I was a little bit doubtful about what Yin Xinyue had told us. In the tense atmosphere and the dim light from the shlight, perhaps Yin Xinyue had just imagined it.


    What answered me was the noise of unsteady footstepsing from the remote corner opposite us. It didnt seem to want to approach us. I swept my foot to find the shlight as I wanted to illuminate this narrow room.


    However, as soon as I stretched my leg out, Yin Xinyue suddenly spoke up, Brother Zhang, your arm feels so cold.


    I said, No, its not Hey, my left arm or right arm?


    Right arm, answered Yin Xinyue.


    I shuddered, shouting, Hurry, let go of that arm. Its not me!


    Yin Xinyue was terrified and shrieked. I used one arm to embrace her to my chest and kicked in the direction she was sitting at. Get lost! No matter what you are, get out of here!


    However, I just kicked air.


    I got an unexpected harvest though. Unknowingly, my foot stepped on the shlight. I was immediately excited and I knelt to grab the shlight and tried to turn it on. Unfortunately, the battery had fallen out when the shlight was dropped.


    I didnt care about the possible dangers. Gritting my teeth, I gathered my courage to use my hands to search blindly on the ground.


    One of my hands touched a freezing cold arm. Immediately, it reacted and gripped my hand. It was really cold, like a big block of ice and numbed my hand. However, I just shook it off. I managed to kick the arm aside, then I continued to search for the battery on the ground.


    Luckily, I finally found it. Without any hesitation, I installed the battery and turned on the shlight.


    At the same time, the freezing arm tried to stop me. Helpless, I had to ask Li Mazi for help, who was already annoyed. And angry people forget their fear easily. He stood directly in front of me.


    Although I didnt see what Li Mazi was doing, from themotion I knew he was punching and kicking hard towards the other person.


    When the shlight was switched on, I immediately shone it towards Li Mazi.


    He was wrestling with air. There was nothing in front of him but empty space. Then, I checked the ship owner. He was sitting intact on his chair. His body wasnt like what Yin Xinyue had described, it wasnt divided.


    However, his face was dark, his eyeballs were bulging, and he was foaming at the corners of his mouth.


    Shit, hes suffocating!


    I rushed over, pulled the ship owner to the ground and sat on him. Then, I forced open his eyelids and shone the shlight directly into his eyes.


    The ship owner took a deep breath then screeched and got a hold of himself. Hey t on the ground, screaming and crying.


    I then shone the shlight around the room. I found a pair of legs, walking back and forth at the corner we were at a moment ago. The light wasnt bright enough so our vision wasnt clear, but it did look like a pair of human legs.


    However, there were only two legs. There was no upper body.


    It seemed what Yin Xinyue had seen wasnt just an illusion!


    The pair of legs just wandered in the corner. It didnt walk forward and it did not seem to want to hurt us.


    I forced myself to clear my mind, asking loudly, Who are you? Why do you want to harm him?


    Li Mazi was confused, asking me, Who are you talking to? I pointed at the pair of legs. He immediately tensed and grabbed the hem of my shirt.


    However, the legs didnt answer.


    Li Mazi said, It doesnt have a mouth, how can it answer?


    I thought Li Mazi was right.


    You should go away, Li Mazi dered. This friend of mine is as known as Nanjings Zhong Kui [1]. Theres no ghost in this world he cant take care of. We dont want to hurt you, so were giving you a chance right now!


    But the legs just kept walking back and forth in the corner. They didnt seem to have the intention to leave.


    I told Li Mazi to stop persuading it, That pair of legs cant leave the room because the Ban Liang coin is right here. It cant leave the coin.


    Yin Xinyue asked worriedly, What should we do now? We cant just sacrifice ourselves like this, right?


    Dont worry, if we cant do this the easy way, then we must get rough!


    I took out the rhino horn from my pocket and gave out instructions, Li Mazi, burn the rhino horn! Yin Xinyue, you hold on to the peach wood stick. If that thinges close, just hit it!


    I opened a bag of refined salt and walked towards the ship owner. I forced him to open his mouth and poured the salt directly into his mouth.


    The ship owner struggled angrily as I scoffed, If you dont want to die, behave and cooperate with me!


    He immediately settled down. However, from the grimace on his face, I could tell that it was really ufortable for him to have a mouth full of salt.


    Li Mazi started to burn the rhino horn. However, as it was a little damp, he couldnt ignite it immediately. I had no other choice but to take off my shirt and let him burn that instead. Then, he threw the rhino horn into the bonfire.


    After the rhino horn dried, it slowly ignited with wisps of smoke twirling up. The smell and smoke slowly permeated the entire small room.


    I was forcing those legs to take action!


    Everything in this world has some sort of nemesis or counter. If it released a stench, it would be countered by a good aroma. I hoped this trick of mine would work.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhong_Kui

 Chapter 102: Recognizing the New Owner

    Chapter 102: Recognizing the New Owner


    What happened proved that my trick worked. The legs began to pace anxiously. And, as the smoke engulfed them, a human body started to form above the pair of legs.


    Of course, that upper body was made of white smoke.


    His face was bearded as he wore something simr to the loose-sleeved robe from the Qin or Han Dynasty. There was a sword at his waist, so I assumed he was a warrior.


    The spirit dwelling in the Ban Liang coin was that of a warrior.


    The smoke seemed to provoke him as he stared and walked toward us. I immediately patted Yin Xinyues shoulder, signaling her to use the peach wood stick to counterattack. At the same time, I grabbed a handful of refined salt, ready to throw it at him.


    However, the warrior seemed scared of us. After hesitating for a while, he changed direction, walking toward the wall clock.


    Everything happened in just the blink of an eye. He vanished into thin air.


    I guessed that hed entered the Ban Liang coin and sighed in relief. We had safely passed the night. For now, the ship owner would be rtively safe.


    I let him go, and he quickly spat out the salt in his mouth.


    Even after he had vomited, he couldnt clean his mouth. Thus, he squatted in a corner, trying to use his fingers to make himself vomit more. The salty taste in his mouth prevented him from talking, his face ashen.


    And now, our biggest enemy was the ship owners wife.


    I knew how to deal with otherworldly items, but it was more difficult to deal with human beings. What should we do now? As the ship owners wife seemed determined to kill us, our chances of survival were slim.


    We were imprisoned in this room, just like turtles in a jar.


    Li Mazi breathed heavily, sitting on the stairs and cursing. However, the person on the other side of the door was stubborn. She didnt care about our shouting and screaming.


    I knew it wasnt a solution to stay idle here. There wasnt much oxygen in the room, and we had exhausted a lot of it after burning the shirt and the rhino horn. I had already started to struggle to breathe.


    I cleared my mind to think of a solution. Eventually, in my despair, I thought of something. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. Yeah, lets do that!


    After making up my mind, I rushed forward and pulled the ship owner up.


    I checked and found he had almost recovered. However, his mouth was full of saliva. I guessed it was because of the salt.


    I asked, Are you okay now? Can you talk?


    He nodded. Yeah.


    Alright, he could talk. I heaved a sigh of relief. Then, I gave him the rhino horn. Next, youll have to strictly follow my instructions. Perhaps we have a chance to survive!


    The ship owner gave me a slight nod.


    I asked, Do you have any personal items of your wife with you right now? Something very close to her. We can use it to make the Ban Liang coin recognize her as its new owner.


    The ship owner hesitated for a while. Then, in front of us, he took off his shirt. I was baffled when I saw that he was wearing a bra.


    This shocked me, and Li Mazi also dropped his jaw in shock, staring at the ship owner.


    The man blushed, telling us that he had transvestism and liked to wear womens clothes.


    I reassured him, No problem. I dont judge people with quirks. Actually, if you didnt have transvestism, Im afraid our n wouldnt have worked! I suspected that the ship owner and his wife wanted to divorce because of this.


    The ship owner did as I asked. He bit his finger and dripped a drop of his blood on the Ban Liang coin. Then, he used the bra to wrap the coin tightly. To prevent the spirit living inside the coin from getting out, I even put the peach stick and refined salt on it.


    The ship owner kneeled as I lit two cigarettes, putting them before the Ban Liang coin.


    The ship owner was on his knees and started his prayer, Everything has an owner. I divorced my wife, Pangshi, and all of my properties now belong to her, including this Ban Liang! You dont belong to me now, please dont pester me. Otherwise, youll receive divine retribution! Now, Im going to use my blood to send you off, I hope you will leave satisfied


    After praying, he proceeded to do three kowtows and nine salutes. And when everything was done, the ship owner looked at me worriedly.


    I signaled everyone to silently observe the Ban Liang coin.


    After around two minutes, I saw the bra that was wrapped around the coin suddenly move. It looked like someone using his fingers to dig a way out.


    I sighed in relief. It meant the coin had listened to the ship owner.


    I hurried to unwrap the bra. After I checked and found that his blood had seeped into the coin, I could finally rest assured.


    As it had epted the ship owners blood offering, from now on the Ban Liang coin wasnt rted to the man anymore.


    Now, it was time to deal with his ck-hearted wife!


    The ship owner went to the door and knocked. Juan, I know youre there. We used to be husband and wife, why are you being so heartless?


    Silence was the only answer to his question.


    As long as you let me out, I promise I will never pursue this matter. Moreover, I dont have any evidence to use you of murder. You can rest assured


    Still, no one answered him. It seemed that she had resolutely made up her mind. She really wanted to kill us all.


    The ship owner became desperate.


    Hey Juan, Ill tell you this  I still have a sum of money in my ount. If you let us out, I will send you that money. How does that sound? If I die, my nephew will get the money. You know, I hate my brothers family the most, because they are so greedy. I prefer to give you that money than giving it to them.


    I seemed to hear someone sighing outside. I felt reassured.


    The ship owners wife was moved.


    As long as she was greedy, we could solve it with money.


    You dont believe me, right? Thats okay. Im going to give you my bank ount and password. You can log in online and check the bnce. Then you can confirm if Im telling the truth, dered the ship owner.


    The ship owners wife finally spoke up, You bastard! You really hid money from me! Give me the ount and password, Ill check.


    Sure, the ship owner answered and told her the ount number and password. I could hear the hurried footsteps outside. That woman couldnt wait as she rushed away to use herptop to check the bnce in her husbands ount.


    Soon, she returned, spewing foul curses. You bastard, you still have a lot of money! Hmph, tell me, did you keep a mistress?


    No, I didnt, replied the ship owner. If that money is transferred to your ount before I die, its yours; my brothers family cant touch it. Only then I can be reassured.


    However, I have a small wish. If you can grant this wish of mine, I will give you my USB-Key. The ship owner slowly baited the woman.


    "Spit it out then. Whats your wish?"


    Weve got a girl here. Shes pregnant. I beg you to let this innocent woman go, pleaded the ship owner. Dont worry, weve been tormented to the point we cant do anything to resist


    In this situation, yet you still have the mood to care about others? Its not in your nature!


    When Yin Xinyue heard the ship owner dere that she was pregnant, she pinched my arm. She knew that it was I who had instructed him to say that. I gave Yin Xinyue a reluctant smile, signaling her not to make a sound. We shouldnt let the woman doubt that we were trying to deceive her.


    All right, Ill tell you the truth. Honestly, the baby is mine. I will give you all of my assets. I just hope that after the baby is born, you will give him eighty or a hundred thousand renminbi as maintenance fees. Compared to the sum in my ount, this amount is just pocket change. Please consider this.


    You did have an affair! And shes pregnant!! You bastard, I hate people who betray me the most. You must die! You must die!


    "Its okay that I have to die. As long as the baby is alive, everything is fine, said the ship owner. Think about it carefully. If you grant my wish, you will have the money, and I will have my heir. For this useless life of mine, will you just stand and watch that huge sum of money fall into my brothers hands. Are you willing to do that? Then, he kept quiet.


    A long whileter, the ship owners wife finally spoke up, All right, I agree. However, you must first transfer the money to my bank ount. And I want you to write yourst words, saying that the kidnappers killed you. Its not rted to me.


    No problem, the ship owner said, but you must swear that you will bring the girl out.


    Okay, I swear that I will take the girl out of there.


    What if you cant do that? asked the ship owner.


    If I cant do that? Well, may I choke to death in that secret chamber just like you.


    The ship owner smiled, and I heaved a sigh of relief. She had just stepped into the trap.


    At the moment she made the pledge, I clearly saw the Ban Liang coin move. It meant her promise was in effect from then on!

 Chapter 103: Ji Bu and his Promise Worth One Thousand in Gold

    Chapter 103: Ji Bu and his Promise Worth One Thousand in Gold


    Then, acting as if he trusted his wife, the ship owner slipped the USB-Key under the door.


    He then turned to me and asked worriedly, Will it work?I nodded. Dont worry. She wont endure past tonight. She will open the door unless she wants to die.


    However, one hour passed, then another


    Still, the ship owners wife hadnt opened the door for us.


    My heart was chilled.


    This wicked woman didnt keep her word, so why hasnt the Ban Liangs curse taken effect?


    However, I had underestimated the Ban Liang coin.


    When it was almost dawn, we heard someone crawling outside the door. It seemed that someone wasing.


    The ship owner asked, Have you transferred the money?


    The other side didnt answer, just the sound of crawling towards the door.


    I knew the woman was trapped. I hurried to the door, waiting. As soon as she opened the door, I would rush out.


    When the sound came closer, I saw blood seeping into the room from under the door.


    What happened?


    I was baffled.


    While I was wondering, the door opened. And what I saw made mepletely terrified.


    The ship owners wife was missing her nose. Every time she breathed, blood would ooze out from her nostrils. Her entire face and even her hair were dyed red from her blood.


    She was possessed, indeed. Her eyes were nk and her movement was stiff, descending the stairs on all fours. I scurried to move aside and give way to her.


    She didnt seem like she was in her right mind and knew what she was doing. After she got to the remote area in the storage chamber, she stood up but didnt move. At that moment, she looked as though she was a corpse.


    When the ship owner saw his wife in that state, he didnt want to take revenge. We all rushed out of this narrow underground chamber.


    After we were all out, I saw the ship owner trying to close the door and stopped him. What are you doing?


    What else should I do? raged the ship owner. That bitch schemed so much against me. If we keep her alive, she will be a constant threat.


    Youre trying to kill people in broad daylight, I scoffed. Have you ever thought about the consequences?


    I have, the ships owner snorted in reply. She killed herself. It has nothing to do with me or with you guys. You better stay away from this.


    After saying that, the ship owner didnt hesitate to close the door. He even used sand to seal the slits.


    I sighed. They were truly a married couple. The man was even crueler than his wife.


    Although the ship owners wife was ck-hearted to the point that she couldnt pay for her sins even if she died, we didnt have the right to deprive her of the right to live.


    So, I gestured Li Mazi to sneakily call the police.


    Less than ten minutester, the police arrived at the scene and arrested the ship owner. And eventually, they also rescued the ship owners wife.


    When the police carried the ship owners wife out, blood kept dripping along the way. Sheypletely still, and we didnt know if she was alive.


    The ship was also sealed. All the guests were arranged to stay in another ce.


    We didnt hurry to leave because we hadnt received ourmission yet. If it was before, I wouldnt want to take themission or get involved in this wicked murder case.


    However, this time we had endured hardship, and we had almost lost our lives on this ship. I could say that we had fought with our very lives for thismission. If I didnt get it, I would be resentful for the rest of my life.


    Several dayster, the ship owner was released. His wife was warded in the hospital. She had been rescued in time, and they had even retrieved her nose to reattach it back


    The ship owners wife had attempted to kill us. With the recorded video as evidence, she couldnt deny her crime. The ship owner even brought it to court, iming that his wife had deceived him to take his ship. In the end, he won the case. Furthermore, she deliberately cut her nose off. Since it was of her own volition, it had nothing to do with us.


    Having a ship like that on Qinhuai River was the same as having a cash cow. The ship owner didnt forget his debt to us. He paid us the entire sum. He also didnt dare to keep the Ban Liang coin, sending it to us as a part of themission. He was afraid that the Ban Liang would act up and send his remaining property away together with his words.


    After receiving themission and the Ban Liang coin, we didnt dare to stay any longer in Nanjing. We drove back that same day.


    Back home, I got to know the story of the coin.


    It turned out the very first owner of the Ban Liang coin was Ji Bu, a famous general in the Qin and Han Dynasty.


    There was a proverb that states, One thousand in gold is nothingpared to a promise from Ji Bu. It clearly showed how much Ji Bu valued his promise.


    ording to legends, when Ji Bu was still a kid, he didnt keep his promises. Instead, he was a liar who cheated everyone.


    After an incident, Ji Bu had started to value his words.


    When Ji Bu was working as a jailer, hed encountered a prisoner who gave Ji Bu a Ban Liang coin and pleaded for him to help clear his name. Ji Bu agreed to help him.


    However, Ji Bu didnt help the prisoner in the end. Eventually, the prisoner was chopped in two at the waist as his death sentence. Before he died, he cursed and yelled at Ji Bu for not keeping his word.


    The young Ji Bu was shocked by this incident. After that, he had crossed his heart with a pledge that he would try his best to keep his word. And he always kept the Ban Liang coin with him as a reminder.


    In the end, he sessfully did what he set his mind to. He became a famous general with a great reputation in history.


    Later on, I sold the Ban Liang coin to a businessman from the Philippines.


    He was a leading businessman in themunication industry. He told us that his key to sess was to always keep his promise.


    However, as his business had grown quickly and he had to mingle in this dark and corrupted society, he had be more fickle, agreeing to sign many nk checks.


    That was why he bought the Ban Liang coin to give himself the final line in his business.


    Nowadays, peoples living standard is getting higher and better, but the beautiful virtues that had been imparted to us through five thousand years of history have slowly eroded.


    People deceive each other everywhere. Sometimes, when someone kept their promise, it would even be big news.


    It was even more ridiculous that someone now wanted to use an otherworldly item to keep himself from not forgetting his original heart and keep his word.


    This was the tragedy of society, and also the tragedy of man!

 Chapter 104: Strange Dreams

    Chapter 104: Strange Dreams


    However, what happened afterward gave me the deepest impression.


    I was deeply impressed not because of the horrible details or the high-value otherworldly item. It was because of the handling process, which was so tortuous that I once thought to give up.


    It was two years after the event involving the Ban Liang coin.


    In that year, my reputation had grown quite a bit in the circle of otherworldly merchants and I received many cases. However, most of them were minor cases, and it was all because of wicked people. There were no evil items to take care of.


    Then, after one or two cases I got bored. I wasnt interested in most of the cases, and I sent Li Mazi alone to solve them.


    He used the methods I had taught him to deal with the otherworldly items and actually managed to resolve things quite well.


    He even jokingly called me his master.


    Master, my ass. I knew that Li Mazis understanding of this upation was superficial at most. So, something unexpected would always happen.


    However, what I hadnt expected was that the situation this time would be so serious!


    It was almost the Lunar New Year, and I had nned to close the shop for several days to go back to my hometown. However, I could never imagine that Li Mazi would get into trouble at that critical moment


    As the business was at a lull during the Lunar New Year, Li Mazi decided to stay home to take care of his son and help him with his homework.


    However, one day, around 4 AM, I received his call. From his tone, I could tell he was panic-stricken. As he was filled with fear, he had started stammering.


    I hurriedly asked Li Mazi, Whats happened?


    After telling me to stop with the questions, Li Mazi cried out, Its not easy to exin over the phone. Come here, and hurry! If yourete, my life will be over!


    I was startled. I didnt think much and just put on my coat and left the shop.


    There was a lot of snow and my feet sank deep into it. I slowed down, worried that I would slip. However, along the way I still slipped a lot and hurt myself several times. When I reached Li Mazis ce, my entire body was covered in snow, and my legs were so cold they were numb.


    I knocked on the door and waited in the cold for quite a long time before Li Mazis son opened the door. Seeing me, he hugged me, crying unceasingly. Uncle Zhang, youre here! Please check on my dad. Something has happened to him!


    Iforted him, Calm down, kid. Take me to see him.


    Seeing Li Mazis son, my restless heart became even more flustered. His son was a calm person, and it was rare that he was that scared.


    I wondered if Li Mazi was half dead


    However, when I saw him, I was surprised.


    Li Mazi looked fine. He didnt look sick at all. However, he was lying on his bed, his nk eyes looking at the ceiling, and his face slightly pale.


    I hurried to ask, Li Mazi, what happened?


    Li Mazi took a deep breath, then told his son to go to the living room and do his homework. After he closed the door, he started to yell, Damn it, I didnt mess with anybody, all right? I just slept with some girl and now theres a problem.


    I shushed him, Keep your voice down. Dont let your son hear that! From his choice of words, I knew what happened to him was something inappropriate for children.


    Li Mazi then started to exin. It turned out that he had been ufortable recently. He had a recurring dream where someone was stepping on his knees and staring coldly at him.


    At first, he didnt really mind as he thought that due to keeping his mind busy the whole day resulted in the nightmares at night. However, these days he had been thinking about his encounter, which happened several days ago.


    Several days ago, Li Mazi went to a mountain vige to buy an otherworldly item. Since he had the gift of the gab, he had managed to pass himself off as an expert. In short, he tricked a young widow into sleeping with him.


    Around midnight, Li Mazi felt someone stepping on his knees. He opened his eyes and found the young widow he was sleeping with had crawled over him and now she was standing still on his knees.


    Li Mazi knew the widow was sleep-walking. Gently, he pulled her down and hugged her to his chest, going back to sleep. From that night onward, Li Mazi often had strange dreams. Every night, he felt someone standing on his knees.


    When he woke up early in the morning, he felt his knees hurting a lot. However, the pain would disappear shortly afterward. That was why he didnt pay much attention.


    Tonight, as usual, he had the same strange dream. However, when he woke up, he felt the pain on his knees several times worse than usual.


    It was so painful that he couldnt bear it. He turned on the light and took off his trousers to see what happened. As soon as he saw it, he was petrified. He knew he had encountered something evil. That was why he called me for help.


    I asked, What did you see? Why are you frightened like this?


    Li Mazi was still scared, looking around gingerly. He lowered his voice, You must prepare yourself. Dont scream when you see it and scare my son.


    I burst outughing. Dont talk nonsense!


    Then, he lifted the nket covering his body. He wore only a piece of red underwear.


    Damn pervert!


    My eyes glided to his knees. At first nce, I felt the hair on my nape rising.


    I never expected to see footprints on Li Mazis knees!


    Heck, the footprints looked ck like bruises. It seemed like someone had stood on his knees for quite a long time, which prevented his blood from flowing through his veins and had caused skin necrosis.


    Also, they were human footprints. I could even see the marks of the toes on both of his knees.


    I attempted to poke my finger at the ck footprints. But Li Mazi stopped me. You cant touch it. Itll hurt really badly if you do!


    I furrowed my brows. Li Mazi, what happened? Did you sleep that little widow to death? And she has now returned as a ghost to haunt you?


    Li Mazi scoffed, Little Brother Zhang, I dont have the mood to joke with you. You should hurry and help think of a solution! I feel like needles pricking my flesh. It feels as if something wants toe out from my knees.


    I nodded. If Li Mazis legs were gone, I would lose a decent assistant.


    I immediately lifted Li Mazi, bringing him directly to the hospital.


    The doctor wanted to test his knee reflexes, but Li Mazi scolded him, saying that his knees hurt so bad even with the slightest touch, let alone use a small hammer to hit them.


    Instead, he asked the doctor to take an X-ray to see if there was something in his knees. He felt that something wanted to get out from under his skin.


    The X-ray result was shocking. Li Mazis knees had signs of natural but serious wear and tear and were in danger of failing.


    This time, even the doctor couldnt stay calm. There are not many cases of knee failing like this in the world. Im afraid we cant do anything.


    Helplessly, we visited several big hospitals. The replies we got were almost the same. Some doctors even suggested to amputate Li Mazis legs.


    Of course, Li Mazi wouldnt just let his legs be cut off. Furiously, he scolded the hospitals for being useless. Fortunately, Yin Xinyue had some friends abroad, so I asked her to help us contact some hospitals over there.


    After we got an appointment, we prepared to depart the very next day. However, that night, Li Mazis situation turned worse!


    In order to take care of him, Id stayed in his house. Around 2 AM, when the clock bell rang, I was awakened by Li Mazis screeching.


    I jumped in fright. I rushed to his room and asked him, Are you all right?


    After he woke up, he groaned and had a fever. Eventually, he began to rave unconsciously.


    I was frightened. I then lifted his nket and threw it aside. I wanted to check if Li Mazis knees were stepped on again.


    However, as soon as I lifted the nket, I was dizzied as a horrible stench assailed me. I struggled to adapt to the nauseous smell then took a look at Li Mazis knees. Checking, I gawked in shock.


    His knees had started to rot with many translucent blisters, and I could even see small maggots wiggling inside those blisters!


    Li Mazis son heard his father screaming. Hastily, he knocked on the door. Uncle Zhang, hows my father?


    I assured him, Hes all right. He just had a nightmare.


    I found a needle and disinfected it with a lighter. Then, I started to prick the blisters on Li Mazis knees.


    Instantly, ck blood flowed out together with the gray maggots. Although they were flushed out with the blood, the maggots tried to head back into Li Mazis flesh. I used the needle to pin them out.


    Not good! We cant just wait here!


    I guessed that someone had plotted against Li Mazi while he was sleeping with that young widow.


    The methods of such people were always uncanny. I knew we couldnt count on normal hospitals. Without further ado, I put Li Mazi on my back and threw him into the car, heading toward Baisha Vige.

 Chapter 105: Formidable Otherworldly Item

    Chapter 105: Formidable Otherworldly Item


    Baisha Vige was situated deep inside a mountain on the outskirts of the city. Half a month ago, the vigers had unearthed something, and from that moment, the entire vige had begun to run afoul. They understood that the thing could be some sort of otherworldly item, as such, they contacted me and asked for my assistance to resolve that issue.


    However, since I wasnt in the mood to do so, I sent Li Mazi instead. Due to which made this issue happen.


    Li Mazis circumstances made me think of two possibilities.


    The first possibility was that the young widow he had slept with was the problem. Perhaps she had mastered evil techniques and used poisonous insects on Li Mazi.


    And the second possibility was that Li Mazi hadnt properly taken care of the otherworldly item in that mountain vige. And now, the cmity on his legs was actually that item taking revenge on him.


    I carefully analyzed the details, and I thought that the second possibility was more likely.


    Even though the young widow could be fierce, she couldnt make Li Mazi have the same nightmare every night, let alone leave ck, rotten footprints on his knees.


    When we arrived at Baisha Vige, it was around 4 AM or 5 AM, at the break of dawn.


    It was a time when people should have been sleeping quietly. However, I didnt expect to see the entire vige well-lit and dogs barking everywhere.


    I could even hear people groaning.


    Damn, there is definitely an otherworldly item wreaking havoc here!


    At that moment, Li Mazi woke up. Seeing us entering the vige, he groaned louder, Little Brother Zhang, its not good. My knees hurt so badly, I dont think I can put up with it for much longer.


    I hurriedlyforted him, Dont worry. If your knees are reacting to this ce, it proves that something problematic is here. Once we find the cause, well know how to deal with it.


    Li Mazi nodded, asking me to visit a family in the east of the vige. His little widow lover stayed there. We should stay there for a night and investigate the situation.


    I nodded as I drove away. Eventually, my car pulled to a stop in front of the widows house. I was a little hesitant as I was about to knock on her door. It was considered bad luck to knock on a widows house at night.


    However, while I was hesitating, the door was pulled open from the inside. A pretty countryside woman stood and looked at us from the door. Who are you looking for?


    Its me, Li Mazi. Li Mazi craned his neck out, his head protruding from the car. I need to talk to you.


    Seeing Li Mazi, the young widow became enraged. You swindler, you daree here again?!


    Then, she stormed forward to grab Li Mazi, trying to pull him out of the car.


    I was startled. Li Mazi was a patient with a serious sickness now. The woman could cause his death!


    I rushed forward to stop the widow, asking her, What happened?


    The young widow sobbed. Youve put us into misery, you know? Our folks here, young and old, are tortured so badly by that thing! I called you and you didnt even pick up the phone. You you have to pay for our folks lives!


    I became more restless. If I couldnt rify what had happened here, it would escte to the point that I couldnt solve it at all.


    I didnt know the customs here. However, from the strong reaction of the young widow, I could guess the folks here werent friendly at all. If we approached them recklessly, we would be beaten up to death by the enraged vigers.


    Thus, I said nothing but got in the car to leave immediately.


    However, it was toote. The womans shriek had alerted many vigers. They flooded out from their houses, surrounding my car.


    Looking at the machetes, the hoes, and even some shotguns in their hands, I panicked. I rushed into the car and locked the doors. Leaving only a slit, I shouted at them, Guys, calm down! Whats going on? Please tell me, dont act rashly!


    I suddenly recognized a strange phenomenon. Most of the people surrounding my car were women. There were just a few young men in this crowd. However, they all stood behind the women, looking limp.


    My heart began to flutter.


    Do they have the same sickness as Li Mazi?


    In the loud cursing and yelling of the enraged vigers, I understood most of the situation.


    Thest time, when Li Mazi came to resolve the otherworldly item issue, although he had reduced the strange phenomenon here and took the money, the situation had be worseter!


    Previously, the vigers had encountered some bad things and they were just a little frightened. However, ever since Li Mazi had solved the otherworldly item problem, the strange things happening here had drastically increased. They hadnt stopped bothering the vigers. Because of this, many vigers here were tortured beyond what they could describe.


    Of course, we were the first people they thought of. However, for some unknown reason they could not contact us via phone. And they didnt know where we lived so they subconsciously thought that we were swindlers who took their money and ran away.


    After putting all the events together, I hurried to exin it to the folks, Dont worry. Were here this time to solve this thoroughly. If we die, you guys wont have a decent ending, either!


    Listening to my advice, the vigers finally calmed down. I got out of the car and asked them to arrange a ce for us to rest.


    I couldnt believe that they decided to confine me and Li Mazi in the Earth Temple which was opposite to the young widows house. And, to prevent us from calling the police, they even confiscated our cellphones.


    I was mad as theyd put us under house arrest. They thought thatw enforcement was too far away and no one woulde here to deal with them.


    However, a powerful dragon shouldnt quarrel against the local serpent.


    Right now, if I argued with them, it would trigger the dispute between two sides. Eventually, I couldnt do anything else but bring Li Mazi to the temple.


    The vigers sent two guys to watch us. They told us that we would talk in the morning. At night time, it was not convenient to discuss things.


    I nodded, asking them to send someone who was in charge to talk to us in the morning.


    The situation could be much more serious than I had expected. I must solve it as soon as possible.


    Li Mazis knee problem seemed to get more severe. He groaned unceasingly in pain. I peeped through the slit at the door, and I could hear people whimpering throughout the small vige.


    Then, it suddenly popped up in my head that it could be something very scary.


    Are all the men in this vige in the same situation as Li Mazi? Are their knees all rotting?


    Today, the crowd that had circled me included only women. Several men were standing behind but they didnt look steady.


    The audible whining further proved that the folks in this vige could have the same odd disease.


    I already had a headache. I wasnt a doctor. Even if I could solve the problem of the otherworldly item, their disease couldnt be resolved. At most, it wouldnt get worse.


    Would the folks here spare my life afterward?


    I wanted to ask Li Mazi what was the otherworldly item that had started making this mess in Baisha Vige, and how he had treated it.


    However, Li Mazi was fast asleep.


    These days, he had been continuously tortured and he couldnt get much sleep at night. As he had finally fallen asleep, I didnt want to disturb him. Eventually, Iy down next to him, sleeping with all my clothes still on.


    However, at the break of dawn, I was woken up by a pungent stench.


    At first, I thought it was some weird smell inside this abandoned Earth Temple. However, I soon realized that something was wrong. The stench reeked of rotten meat.


    Thinking about the rotten meat, I remembered Li Mazis injury. I hurried to roll the legs of his pants up to check if Li Mazi''s injury was turning worse or not.


    However, as soon as I rolled the legs of Li Mazis pants up, the smell of rotten eggs stormed into my nostrils. I didnt look but rushedto the corner andretched.


    I tried hard to pull myself together. However when I nced at Li Mazis legs, I wanted to vomit more.


    Li Mazis injury wasnt limited around his knees. It had spread out fast and reached his heels. The blisters appeared as if he was scalded with boiling water. There were so many of them, and ck worms were wiggling inside the bubbles.


    My entomophobia came back to me, a chill creeping down my spine.


    I was so scared I had forgotten my urge to vomit. I checked Li Mazis forehead and found he had ahigh fever.


    Shit! Hes not sleeping. Hes fallen into a shock due to high fever!


    I forcefully knocked on the door, asking the men on watch outside to find the doctor. Li Mazi couldnt hold it anymore.


    An aunty standing outside talked to me nonchntly through the slit at the door. Not a big deal. Dont panic.


    Then, she strolled away.


    I had been waiting for quite a long time when that aunty came back with the doctor.


    She brought over a wrinkled-faced old woman whose face was decorated with strange symbols. She had white hair and was shrouded in a ck coat. She looked like a shaman.


    They pushed open the door and the old woman came to check Li Mazis injury. She squatted next to him, taking out a silver needle. She asked Li Mazi to stay put and disinfected the needle by heating it with a lighter.


    Then, she began to prick the blisters on his thigh.


    I asked the aunty, What is she doing? Why is she dressed like that?


    The aunty threw me a sidelong nce. Shes the life-saving God in our vige. Without her, many would have died.


    I was startled. Is she a divine doctor?


    However, she didnt look like a divine doctor but a shaman. Knowing this, I kept silent for a while.


    What year is it? Why do shamans still exist? They arent afraid of failing in their treatments and killing people?


    However, I couldnt deny the fact that this old woman was quite capable. After receiving her treatment, Li Mazis blisters slowly faded and ttened. They became ayer of translucent dead skin, clinging on his thighs.


    Although it still looked really scary, it wasnt as disgusting as before since I could still recognize that they were his legs.


    Li Mazi finally woke up. However, his situation wasnt really promising. He looked confused.


    I sighed, asking the shaman, What kind of disease is it?

 Chapter 106: Knee Bone Jar

    Chapter 106: Knee Bone Jar


    The shaman doctor looked at me. Her eyes were opaque white, which were like two ss balls iid in her sockets. They looked scary.


    She talked to me slowly. Its the wrath of the Lord of the Soil here. Thats the way he punishes the folks.


    The wrath of the Lord of the Soil? I couldnt help but smirk. It was funny that she hade up with this idea.


    However, looking at her serious face, I didnt dare make myughter audible.


    Shortly after, a beefy man with a big belly came, holding a staff. He threw us a nce then sat down right before us.


    If anyone in this vige dies, you will be buried with them! So, you should better solve this thing quickly, the beefy man snarled fiercely.


    I nodded repeatedly.


    I understood that the big man wasnt joking. Even if he killed us here, the police would never be able to figure it out.


    Then, he would mince Li Mazi and I into pieces to feed the mountain wolves. We wouldpletely disappear from this world.


    If I wanted to solve the problem in Baisha Vige, I had to know the whole story. Then, I patiently asked him. What has happened to this ce? You must tell me everything. Do not miss even a single detail.


    After listening to them, I learned that this man was called Niu Dazhuang, the branch secretary of this vige.


    In such a remote area, being a branch secretary was the same as being a king. The superiorities in the town and district levels wouldnt care about them, which gave them the freedom to do whatever they wished.


    Niu Dazhuang had finished high school, which made him the man with the highest education in this vige. As he was educated, he knew that the vige wouldnt be better but worse if they kept living this way. He determinedly used his title as the branch secretary of the vige to create an educational revolution.


    All kids must go to school, and all the vigers had to work to grow more crops. They must try harder with their lives on the line to throw away the title of a poor vige.


    Baisha Vige was a poor ce, but it had rich soil. If they could exploit the wastnd and turn it to their orchards or vegetable farms, their life would flourish.


    Niu Dazhuang had good convincing skills. Under his advice, all folks, old and young, men and women, had joined hands to exploit the wastnd.


    However, several days after they had started the exploitation, bad things had begun to happen!


    They had dug up a lot of human skulls at the mountain nk. It looked like a collective tomb with piles of decayed horse bones.


    And, there were so many rusted weapons, some of them stabbing into the skeletons. There was a skeleton that bore a lot of arrows. This scene looked really shocking to the folks.


    As they were all superstitious, they thought it was a sign of bad luck. No one wanted to exploit the area further. Especially the female shaman. She had watched those skulls days and nights, chanting something throughout a day. The people had no idea what she was chanting.


    She told the vigers that those skeletons were the otherworldly army managed by the Lord of the Soil. If they dug further, they would provoke the Lord of the Soil. So, the vigers didnt dare to touch this piece ofnd anymore.


    Niu Dazhuang didnt believe in superstitions. He brought several young folks and continued to exploit the ce.


    Much to their surprise they eventually unearthed a stone tomb. They didnt know who the owner of this tomb was because there was no tombstone. There was just a simple, nk te of rock ced on the tomb.


    They eventually found the entrance to the tomb. Niu Dazhuang got into the tomb first. He found an altar where only a y jar was disyed.


    There was nothing else. He didnt even see a coffin.


    Curiously, Niu Dazhuang took the jar and got out of the tomb. He opened the jar and found a small piece of bone inside.


    After checking, they agreed that this small piece of bone could be a human kneecap.


    And, the skeletons they had dug outside this tomb could be the remains of the people who had protected this tomb.


    Several days passed after they had broken into the ancient tomb but nothing happened.


    The vigers finally forgot their worries and gathered their courage. Then, they resumed their exploitation work at the mountain nk. To them, it wasnt just a simple exploitation work, it was the promise of a better future for the next generation.


    However, on the second day of their bustling activity, things started to happen.


    At first, when the folks returned home at night time, they always felt like someone was following behind them. However, when they turned around to check, there was no one.


    Then, when the folks shared meals, they checked to see if they had brought enough bowls for everyone. However, in the end, someone was always missing a bowl. They looked around and found many bowls full of rice brought to a remote corner unknowingly.


    At night, when everybody was fast asleep, they were woken up by themotions of a fight. It seemed like thousands of soldiers and horses were fighting on the mountain. Many were screaming in pain.


    The strange phenomenon had happened for several days in a row, making the vigers anxious.


    One day, some vigers sleep-walked to the mountain, where the skeletons stood up and chased them away. It was then that the vigers recognized the seriousness of this situation. If they were not able to solve it thoroughly, everybody in this vige would die!


    Then, they had invited me toe and deal with the strange situation.


    The reason why they came to me was that Li Mazi hade here previously to collect some antiques and he had bragged about me as if I was a genius.


    And, as Baisha Vige had encountered such a dangerous situation, Niu Dazhuang thought that it could be because of the y jar. He decided to contact me in the hopes of some help.


    At that time, I didnt think about it much. I thought that it was just some hallucination the vigers had experienced. In the end, I just sent Li Mazi instead of going there personally.


    After Li Mazi came, he had carried out the steps as I had told him. He collected all the skeletons then nched them in arge iron wok before incinerating them all.


    Then, he filled the y jar with quicklime and sealed it before throwing it into theke.


    Nothing had happened for several days. The vigers could go out at night without any problems.


    However, as soon as Li Mazi left, the situation had gotten worse!


    The vigers started to have weird dreams where they all saw a shadow standing on their knees. When they woke up, they found ck footprints on their knees. And, Niu Dazhuang had checked all the footprints and confirmed that from the size, they were all from the same person.


    Niu Dazhuang noticed the strange phenomenon. Immediately, he went to talk with the shaman doctor of the vige, the old woman who had just cured Li Mazis legs.


    After checking, the shaman said that they had provoked the Lord of the Soils wrath, and that they had burned the Lord of the Soils army. Of course, he was enraged now, and the shaman herself couldnt do anything.


    Of course, Niu Dazhuang didnt believe in the shamans theory. No matter what, he had graduated from high school and he didnt believe in supernatural things.


    However, there were many things that couldnt be proven with science. They belonged to the metaphysics category.


    Niu Dazhuang trusted the shamans knowledge and attainment in metaphysics. There had been many cases of big hospitals being unable to cure the vigers, but she could easily treat them with some leaves and herbs. Everyone in the vige had seen it, and not even Niu Dazhuang could deny it.


    Niu Dazhuang was the branch secretary of this vige. And since he was the one who started all this, he begged the shaman for help!


    He implored the old shaman again and again, and she finally gave in. She told Niu Dazhuang, I know a method but Im not sure if it would work. No matter what happens, Niu Dazhuang, you have to bear the responsibility.


    Niu Dazhuang agreed immediately.


    The shaman came to an ancient well in the vige, saying that she needed to beg the Lord of the Soil through this well, and he would release some elixir into the well to cure the vigers.


    Niu Dazhuang didnt describe theplicated process. He just said that the old shaman had stayed and performed the ritual by the ancient well for the whole day. When it was twilight, she asked the folks to take the water from the well. Everybody must drink only a sip. They werent allowed to take more than that.


    After they had drunk the well water, their symptoms started to ease up a little.


    However, it was just temporary. Not long afterward, the sickness became even worse. Overnight, people began to have blisters on their legs with the worms wiggling inside.


    They were baffled. Niu Dazhuangs only option was to find the shaman for help.


    And, when he found the old shaman, he was scared as he saw her trying tomit suicide!


    Niu Dazhuang stopped her, asking her why she had to do that. The old shaman told him that the Lord of the Soil would not let the vigers go. And now even the shaman was involved.


    Helplessly, she decided to hang herself.


    She would rather hang herself than be tortured to death by the Lord of the Soil. That kind of death was really horrible and tragic.


    Niu Dazhuangforted the shaman, stopping her from acting insane. He told her he knew how to save the vigers.


    Of course, it was just tofort the old shaman. Niu Dazhuang had no idea what to do.


    They didnt expect that Li Mazi and I woulde at such a critical moment.


    After I listened to their story, I groaned. The symptoms these folks were having and even the other details were absolutely the same as what Li Mazi had experienced.


    I asked Niu Dazhuang, The women in the vige did join and dig up the skeletons, didnt they? Why do only the men have a problem with their knees and not the women?


    Niu Dazhuang shook his head, All the folks here had joined, including men and women, young people and old people, except for the shaman.


    That waspletely bizarre. If it was as they said, the vigers were being punished because they had dug up the skeletons, then why didnt it happen to the women? Did the Lord of the Soil have some sort of gender discrimination?


    No, that doesnt make any sense!


    Seeing me hesitating, Niu Dazhuang asked if I had any solution to this. They had begged the stars and then the moon, and now I was here. No matter what I requested, they would agree, as long as I could save the vigers from that evil disease.

 Chapter 107: Deadly Water Lake

    Chapter 107: Deadly Water Lake


    I had a headache. Seeing how Niu Dazhuang was acting, it seemed like they thought that I just had to use my finger to poke them and they would be healed.


    The bigger the hope, the bigger the disappointment. Perhaps, when it turned out not to be what they had expected, these insane folks would kill me!


    I felt like I should pour a bucket of cold water on him. At least, I had to make him recognize the current situation. Actually, I came to Baisha Vige to save someone. Not the vigers but my friend over there To be honest, I couldnt do anything to cure his illness. Thats why I came to Baisha Vige for some clue.


    Niu Dazhuang smiled, but he didnt buy it. I got it, I got it. I know youre an expert, and its not good to disclose your secrets! If you need anything, just tell me.


    I wanted to cry out but I couldnt. It was obvious that Niu Dazhuang was convinced that I could solve this matter.


    Talking more would be useless at this moment. The most important thing to do now was to find the otherworldly items origin.


    While I listened to Niu Dazhuangs narration, I realized that we might be looking in the wrong direction.


    Perhaps the otherworldly item wasnt those skeletons or the y jar. No matter what, the skeletons were burned, and the jar was thrown to the bottom of theke. Even if they were some otherworldly items, their effects should be reduced rather than getting stronger and stronger.


    Now I had only one exnation for this.


    Theres another otherworldly item here!


    I asked Niu Dazhuang, What is the most suspicious item you have taken out from that tomb? Since I hadnt joined the unearthing raid, I didnt know the details.


    Niu Dazhuang pondered for a while then said, Aside from the y jar, its the kneecap inside the y jar. Anyway, all the folks have some symptoms with their knees


    I smacked my forehead. Right, it was so obvious and I didnt have even think about it. Ive shamed my title as a professional otherworldly merchant!


    I asked Niu Dazhuang immediately, Where is that kneecap?


    I threw it away, Niu Dazhuang said without a bit of hesitation.


    You threw it away? I gawked. Are you joking, brother? You threw the kneecap away?


    Niu Dazhuang sighed. I thought it was something that would bring bad fortune. You know, its a kneecap! Was it important? Dont worry. Ill ask the folks to go find it. Were going to find it right now.


    I stopped him. No, there is no time. I cant go with you to find the kneecap. We must divide into two teams. One must go and find the kneecap, and the others will go with me to find the y jar. As soon as we fish up the y jar, we will be alright.


    Niu Dazhuang agreed then left to arrange things and people.


    I woke Li Mazi up and asked him, How do you feel now? From his appearance, I knew his situation wasnt really promising. But there was nothing I could do. I let him lie back down and asked people to take care of him. We needed to find the kneecap and the y jar before we could do anything else.


    In Baisha Vige, Niu Dazhuangs repute was really good. He had arranged the required things neatly in just a short time. I sighed in relief. At this moment, Niu Dazhuang was leading a group of people to go to theke and find the y jar.


    Although Baisha Vige was in a remote area, the scenery there was really good. Branches of willow swayed in the breeze, which made the air always feel refreshing like it was after a cool rain. The temperature was a little low now. The distant mountain was covered in green. A sereneke reflected the mountain. In general, it was a pleasing sight.


    If nothing strange had happened, I would have considered building a vi here. After I retired, I would stay here and enjoy my elderly life.


    Niu Dazhuang brought some helpers from the vige. Most of them were women because all their men were injured from the disease and couldnt move from their houses. Niu Dazhuang had to use a staff to support himself.


    Before we had even reached theke, I blinked in surprise as waves of pungent smell came to us from theke. ck duckweeds floated at the surface, which created a contrast scene to thekes surroundings.


    I furrowed my brows as I spotted something white and light-reflecting under the ck duckweeds. I used a stick and poked it. Immediately, dead fish arose with rotten bodies, looking utterly disgusting.


    There were so many of them that we couldnt even count how many fish had died in thiske.


    A middle-aged woman stepped out of the team, crouching and crying on the ground. Niu Dazhuang sighed reluctantly. He asked the women to get up from the ground and told her that after this matter was solved, the vige would give her somepensation.


    It turned out that the woman was the person in charge


    of theke. As all the fish in theke were dead, she felt really distressed.


    I asked, Aunty, do you know why so many of the fishes here have died?


    She replied, It must be because of that y jar. Its in theke.


    After ruling out the possibility of deliberate poisoning, I started to think about the y jar.


    If the kneecap was an otherworldly item, why had the y jar created such a horrible scene after it was thrown into theke?


    What if both the kneecap and the y jar are otherworldly items?


    Impossible. Normally, only things that existed in pairs could be otherworldly items together. For example, it could be a pair of embroidered shoes, or a sword and its sheath.


    I had never heard about the case of a kneecap and a y jar.


    Right now, I could only think about two possibilities. The first one, the y jar and the kneecap, under some special circumstance, had be otherworldly items together.


    And, the other possibility was that the kneecap was in thiske, too.


    I asked Niu Dazhuang, Are you sure you threw the kneecap on the ground somewhere but not thiske?


    Niu Dazhuang nodded his head. Im pretty sure. I didnt throw that thing into theke. At that time, we were focusing on the y jar. We didnt really care about the kneecap so we just threw it aside nearby.


    I looked pensive, observing theke and its tranquil surface. Looking for a while, I turned to talk to Niu Dazhuang, All right, tell the people who are looking for the kneecap to go home! They cant find it.


    Niu Dazhuang was frightened. Whats happened?


    I didnt answer him but borrowed a fishing rod from a viger. I released the thread to the longest length then hurled it toward theke. Then, I wound the thread back to pull in a dead dog.


    Dahuang? How did Dahuang die there? A young girl screamed and whined when she saw the dead dog. She stormed over as if she was about to hug the corpse of the dog.


    I hurried to stop the girl. Donte close. The dog is still alive.


    Still alive? How is that possible? The others couldnt understand.


    It was true. The dog reeked of a horrible stench. Its jaw was dropped open, and its fur peeled off. It looked disgusting.


    I said it was still alive because there was something in its stomach! I could quite clearly see the dogs stomach heaving up and down. It looked like the dog was breathing!


    I asked the crowd to back off then set a ring of fire around the dog. After checking to see that the ring of fire had circled the dogpletely, I picked up a stone from the ground and threw it at the dogs stomach.


    There might have been some gas inside the dogs stomach. The moment the rock hit the dogs stomach, it exploded, sttering gruesome fluid everywhere.


    I carefully watched the dogs stomach and didnt dare to blink.


    The dogs stomach had burst open. From where I stood, I could see the dogs internal organs.


    At first nce, I felt like retching.


    Layers of translucent blisters covered the dogs internal organs. These blisters were simr to what Li Mazi had on his legs. Brown-red blood liquid filled the bubbles, and countless small worms were wiggling inside.


    I took a deep breath to calm myself. I was nave to think that the blisters were just some skin disease. I didnt expect that they could seep through the skin and grow on internal organs.


    I could imagine that if Li Mazis disease turned worse and the blisters grew on his internal organs, he would die of agony...


    Perhaps due to the high heat, the bubbles were broken, releasing countless worms. They crawled toward the ring of fire. Crackling sounds arose unceasingly.


    I felt irritated listening to the constant bursting sounds. I increased the heat and burned the entire dog.


    The group of people around me hadnt pulled themselves together yet.


    They all studied me with bright eyes.


    I knew they were worried that those blisters could fester inside their sons or husbands bodies.


    I tried tofort them. No need to worry now. The situation of the victims in the vige hasnte to this horrible level. The sickness on their knees cant reach their bodies.


    They heaved a sigh of relief when they heard me. However, they couldnt help but be worried still.


    We shouldnt stay idle. Its more important to get the y jar now, reminded Niu Dazhuang.


    I talked to Niu Dazhuang, We dont need many people. It could be more trouble if we have many people here. You should ask the women to leave. You and I can do that.


    Niu Dazhuang looked at me, hesitating. But I I cant row the boat. The y jar was thrown to the center of thiske.


    I smiled. Its all right. You dont need to do that. I can row. Many people staying here could alert that thing.


    Niu Dazhuang nodded and told the female farmers to go home. They all left in a hurry.


    They didnt want to stay here anyway. Although they liked to gossip, when they bumped into situations like these, they were all scared.


    Niu Dazhuang said, I will bring the boat to theke, then we will row to the middle. There were quite a lot of fish here before, but they are all dead now. If your rowing skills arent good enough, our boat will turn over after several meters.


    I smiled, No need to find a boat or to fish up the y jar. I know how to deal with this otherworldly item.


    Niu Dazhuang was taken aback, gazing at me in astonishment. How? Tell me quickly.

 Chapter 108: Li Mazi Falling Into the Trap

    Chapter 108: Li Mazi Falling Into the Trap


    I smiled, You will know when the timees! Now, Ill send you away to do something. As long as you can do exactly what I say, Im sure all the folks here will be saved in less than two days.


    Niu Dazhuang nodded. Okay, I will do whatever you tell me.


    I told him, After you go back, you will tell the folks that I have fished up the kneecap and the y jar. Ive solved it all. You will tell them not to worry anymore. Just do that. Ill take care of everything else.


    Niu Dazhuang didnt believe it.


    I shrugged. Do as I say. Im sure therell be no problem.


    Eventually, Niu Dazhuang agreed. However, before he left, he threatened me. If youre deceiving me, Ill dismember you, cutting you into eight pieces and feeding you to the hungry wolves in the mountain.


    After we returned to the vige, Niu Dazhuang started to act as I had instructed him, while I went to see the old shaman.


    The old shamans house was ruined, however, it was clean. Everything was arranged neatly on the shelves or the tables.


    I could tell that the shaman was a hard-working woman when she was young.


    I didnt know if the shaman was unhappy to see me in her house or if she treated everyone the same. Anyway, she didnt seem friendly.


    Throwing a nce at me, she asked, Why are you here?


    I smiled at her, Do you have any idea about the vigers sickness? Is it infectious?


    The old shaman burst out. How could I know? I cure them every day, but Im still okay.


    I asked her, Can you give me some water? Im afraid Niu Dazhuang is going to confine me to the Earth Temple again today, and he wont leave us food or water.


    The old shaman was suddenly agitated, bellowing, Everyone living here is like that. If you dont get used to it, get lost. Or else, youll die here.


    I sighed helplessly. If I could, I should have left already. My brothers kept in the temple. How could I leave him here and flee alone?


    The old shaman kept silent for quite a long time before speaking up. You really want to leave?


    I nodded.


    Good then, I can save you and help you run away. The shaman said, No matter what, Im a doctor. I dont want to see you beaten to death by the folks here. However, you have to remember. After you leave, you will nevere back here again. And, youll never let Dazhuang find you!


    I was excited. Shaman, what should I do?


    The old woman asked me to stay in the Earth Temple. Tonight, someone woulde to save us. And, for Li Mazis sickness, she was helpless. Everything must depend on the will of God.


    I nodded. Good. Tonight, we shall wait for our savior!


    Then, I proceeded to leave. Before leaving, my eyes swept through the shamans room one more time.


    When I came back to the Earth Temple, I was informed that Li Mazi was taken to Niu Dazhuangs house.


    I couldnt do anything else but go to Niu Dazhuangs house to find him. It turned out to be the biggest, tile-roofed house in this vige. It seemed the way they were treating us had gotten better.


    When I asked to take Li Mazi back to the Earth Temple, Niu Dazhuang was bewildered.


    Brother, what do you mean? Arent we treating you well enough? Looking at Niu Dazhuangs embarrassed face, I didnt have the heart to argue with him.


    I told him, Its a part of the n. You shouldnt think too much.


    Although I said that, Niu Dazhuang still didnt look willing at all.


    Eventually, I had to bring Li Mazi back to the temple without any help.


    The Earth Temple was extremely shabby. When we arrived there yesterday, it was nighttime so I didnt get a close look at it. And now, I felt a little regretful.


    The walls had so many big cracks. The statues here were crooked and covered inyers of spider webs. The beams above our heads looked as though they could fall off at any moment.


    Am I torturing myself?


    Iughed at myself then put Li Mazi down, cursing under my breath. As Niu Dazhuang was about to leave, I called him, Mister Secretary, dont leave yet. I want to ask you something.


    Niu Dazhuang immediately came back, What do you want to know? Please dont hesitate to ask.


    Its about that old shaman. I can tell that from her ent, shes not a local folk, right? I smiled, trying to calm Niu Dazhuang down.


    Niu Dazhuang was surprised. He found it strange but he couldnt object. Why have you suddenly asked about the old shaman?


    However, the man answered me honestly. Its true. That shaman isnt from around. She moved here after her marriage.


    From where? I asked, Where does shee from?


    Niu Dazhuang stuttered. Eventually, he shook his head saying he didnt know.


    I more or less understood and gave him a faint smile. Its good then. All right, send someone to watch the well tonight. Try to hide yourself! If someonees to take the water, capture that person. But remember, you must treat that person well.


    Niu Dazhuang found it weird. Ever since bad things have happened, our folks havent taken water from that well anymore. We have to go about ten miles away to get the water from a stream in the mountain.


    I couldnt help it and said, Just do as I ask. Someone wille to take the water. Remember, hide yourself carefully.


    Niu Dazhuang looked at me, his eyes strange. However, he didnt object and hurriedly ordered his people.


    I checked Li Mazis wounds. They didnt seem to be turning worse.


    Li Mazi was drowsy. How are you doing? Could you save this old life of mine?


    Iforted him. Rx! I have a n.


    I chatted with Li Mazi for a while. When it got dark outside, Niu Dazhuang sent two vigers over, bringing us dinner.


    The dinner had various dishes with bacon and vegetables, and even a boiled chicken. Li Mazi and I were starving. We dug in and wolfed down the food.


    After having dinner, wey down to sleep. Niu Dazhuang came to check on us. Seeing us going to sleep, he looked helpless. Brother, how can you sleep now? Im so worried I could die.


    I asked, What are you worried about?


    Niu Dazhuang said, If our n fails, will that thing harm the vigers even more? Im worried it could get worse.


    I smiled. Haha, dont worry. This time it is foolproof!


    After seeing Niu Dazhuang off, I sighed theny down again, pulling the nket and covering my body.


    I didnt know how long I had slept until someone was calling my name and waking me up. I opened my eyes and found my surroundingspletely dark, I couldnt even see my fingers.


    At first, I thought I was dreaming, but when I closed my eyes, the voice called again.


    I didnt know what was going here. But when I woke up Li Mazi was nowhere to be seen.


    I panicked. I called his name, but nobody answered me.


    I was so anxious that I had started sweating. I switched on the shlight, swept it around the ce.


    At the moment I switched on the shlight, I heard the voice that had called my name. Little Brother Zhang, Little Brother Zhang


    My misty mind was cleared immediately. I moved the shlight, shining at the source of the voice. I recognized Li Mazi, who had lost his mobility, standing absent-mindedly at the door of the Earth Temple, looking through the door.


    Li Mazi? I had goosebumps all over my body. I gently called him, Your legs did they get better?


    Li Mazi cocked his head to one side, looking at me with surprised eyes. He opened his mouth and called out mechanically. Little Brother Zhang.


    Hearing Li Mazis voice, I shuddered on the spot. It wasnt Li Mazis voice, and it sounded very feminine. That tender voice was familiar. It was like the young widows voice who lived at one end of the vige.


    It was so simr that if I closed my eyes, I would feel as if the young widow was standing in front of me.


    Li Mazis face was pale, frowning, his moves stiff.


    My eyes fell to his legs. I could see that he couldnt stand steadily, and dirty fluid was oozing down his pants. It looked disgusting.


    Li Mazis eyes were dull and it was clear that he wasnt aware of his surroundings. I was sure that he didnt know what he was doing.


    I tried to sound calm. Its veryte. You should sleep.


    He didnt look at me. He slowly turned around then jumped, kicking the worn-out door of the temple open.


    My heart was beating frantically. Cold sweat beaded my forehead. That wasnt something a patient with leg disease could do. What force has taken him and controlled him?


    I believed that Li Mazi wasnt possessed by some ghost or demon. It was because the voice that came out from his throat was the young widows voice. And, when I met her, her Yang energy was rich, and she had red cheeks. Hence, she was a living person.


    If so, it must be the young widow who had performed some evil magic.


    I had a headache. At first, I had assumed that the old shaman was the ringleader behind all of this. That was why I had my n aimed at her.


    But now, the young widow had joined out of nowhere. It was really hard for me to defend!


    But it was toote to regret anything. Now I could only take one step at a time.


    Seeing Li Mazi walking out of the temple, I followed close behind him. I was worried that the two aunties watching outside would stop me if they thought we were trying to escape. That was what worried me the most.


    It was really surprising that the two aunties were chatting as if they didnt hear our loudmotion. They didnt even look at us.


    I was so flustered. The young widows evil magic was much beyond my imagination. I wasnt so sure if I could deal with her.

 Chapter 109: Evil Magic

    Chapter 109: Evil Magic


    The moon hung high. Cool breeze brushed over. Baisha Vige was really beautiful at night.


    But such a beautiful night scene was scary at that moment.


    Li Mazi moved stiffly in front of me. I followed behind him. There was no one but us on that broad street.


    We walked like that all the way out of the vige. I didnt know what I should do at that moment.


    When we walked past the old shamans house, I especially turned around to check her house. I was taken aback seeing two opaque white eyes gazing at me through the slit of the door.


    Those pair of eyes were malicious and indignant. I could imagine that the old shaman was gnawing her teeth in anger.


    I couldnt help but take in a deep breath. What did she want? Early today, she said that she wanted to release us. But now, she had looked at me like that.


    Did she change her mind? Does she know my n?


    The more I thought about it, the more I felt that it had all gone wrong.


    Making up my mind, I came and knocked on her door. I wanted to ask what she wanted to do after all.


    The old shaman didnt avoid me. She directly opened the door. Her white, murky eyes gazed at me as if she hated that she couldnt eat me alive right now.


    Why? Why? She screamed. Die. You all must die!


    After yelling at me, the shaman mmed the door shut.


    I was scared. The old shaman had said that not just to threaten me.


    She knows my n and that I was plotting against her. Damn, I have to exin to her!


    I knocked on the door hard but the old shaman didnt pay any attention to me. At that moment, I heardmotions from the houses behind me.


    Curiously, I turned around to check. The scene in front of me chilled me to the bone!


    Almost at the same time, all the houses of the vige opened their doors. Shadows walked out from them, one after another.


    They all wore cold faces and their moves stiff. After walking out of the house, they followed behind Li Mazi, making a long line.


    Under the cold moonlight, I could see those silhouettes clearly. They were all the men in the vige.


    I understood at that moment that it wasnt just one person wreaking havoc in that vige. It was both the old shaman and the young widow!


    But I didnt understand how these two had teamed up in all this.


    In the deste vige, a dozen stiff-moving men were rolling their eyes, walking on the street. It was a scary sight!


    Niu Dazhuang was leading that group! It seemed the beefy man couldnt escape this cmity, either.


    Goosebumps rose on my skin. I didnt know where they wanted to go. But I knew it wasnt anywhere nice.


    Looking at Li Mazi going further away and that direction, I realized something and jumped up in fright.


    They are heading to theke outside the vige!


    In their current condition, if they fell into theke, there would only be one result. They would drown themselves.


    What should I do now? What should I do now?


    I was restless like an ant running around in a hot pan. There was nothing I could do.


    If you want to untie the bell, you need to find the one who tied it...


    I knocked on the door harder, screaming. Madam, please, can we talk? Will you really achieve what you want after killing those folks? Please think about it twice.


    The old shaman wasnt bothered by me. I heard someone chanting.


    However, it didnt feel like the Buddhist merciful prayer. It sounded like the buzzing voice from hell that tingled peoples scalp.


    Those stupid vigers should die. They deserve to die. Every single of them, an icy-cold voice spoke behind me.


    It sounded like the young widow living at the entrance of the vige.


    I was aghast.


    The young widow is here, too?


    However, when I turned my head to see, I saw it wasn''tthe young widow. It was a viger. He was staring at me with his tonguestuck out. He looked like a man who had hung himself to death, and he seemed ready to jump on me.


    Being startled, I hurried to avoid him, watching him cautiously.


    I knew the man was being controlled by the young widows magic. I told him, Tell me, what have they done that made you treat them so maliciously? Even if theyve made a mistake, you dont need to eradicate them, right? They do have a family, a wife or children to feed. You want to destroy the entire Baisha Vige?


    Listen to me. As long as you let them go, no matter how big your resentment is, I will take justice for you! I screamed.


    If only I had Li Mazi here in his sane state of mind, it would have been so easy. Using my speaking talent to persuade these people was as difficult as finding the way to heaven.


    Since I understood my capacity, I didnt provoke them any further, the man snorted then continued to follow the line, moving forward.


    I could stop one or two of them, but how would I deal with such a long line? I had to focus on the root of the matter.


    I knocked harder on the shamans door. If you dont mind, maam, would you want to tell me your story? I feel it shouldnt go on this way.


    Before I finished talking, the old shaman opened the door. She stood at the entrance, looking at me from her doorway, talking naturally. You dont understand. If you knew the whole story, you would support me


    She finally agreed to talk to me.


    I understood clearly that it was my only chance. I tried to hit the iron when it was still hot. Nobody was willing to give you justice in the past. Today, let me do that! Good deeds and evil deeds, everything will be repaid. But if you walk on this path, you will receive the fruits of your evil. The sea of sorrow is borderless. Please, turn around, the shore is right behind you.


    Mother, dont listen to him. The young widow was now standing behind me. She was crying and was so struck with emotions that her hands were shaking. They deserve to die! All of them! Recall my fathers death and what weve encountered, their deaths wouldnt be enough topensate for the wounds we have had to bear.


    She called the shaman mother!


    It seemed their stories were far moreplicated than I had imagined.


    The old shaman smiled bitterly. Forget it, its the past. Everything is gone. Young man, youre right. We need someone to give us justice.


    The young widow stomped her feet angrily, looking kittenish. It seemed she didnt dare to go against her mothers wish. She walked into the house.


    I looked back at the vigers. The shaman told me, Its okay. Whether they live or die, let God decide! You shouldnt be anxious as there is no point to it, you will just waste your time.


    I gritted my teeth and stomped my feet. I had made up my mind. I stopped thinking about the other folks and got into the house, sitting down opposite to the old shaman.


    The shaman poured me some water. The young widow threw me a fierce look and ignored me.


    The shaman took out something white from her pocket. I focused and found that it was the kneecap.


    The kneecap was weathered, and the dense fibers could be seen.


    However, its surface was rubbed smooth and shiny. I could tell its owner had taken good care of it by rubbing it every day.


    The white kneecap radiated some faint light, which looked a little dazzling. It seemed the bone didnt just reflect the light but it could emit some light itself.


    The old shaman looked at the young widow. The young widowined, Youre old and youve lost your mind.


    However, eventually, she got off the shamans bed and took out a y jar from underneath it, cing it on the table.


    I studied the small y jar and found some strange drawings on the jars body. The lines were rough as if they were drawn by a kid. However, I could still recognize the drawing depicted a pair of legs.


    And, except for that, it didnt look different from any other pottery items.


    However, as it was smoked ck on the surface, I could see it had received a lot of worship.


    The old shaman took a sip of water and smacked her tongue. Then, she started to tell me her old story.

 Chapter 110: Ghost Doctor

    Chapter 110: Ghost Doctor


    I listened attentively.


    The old shaman gave me a feeling that she was a secluding master who didnt want to get involved with mortal life.


    The aura from her body slowly calmed my restless heart.


    Thirty years ago, Baisha Vige was just a remote, deste area. There was only a cottage on the mountain where a married couple dwelled, who was soborious that they started working from dawn and only rested when the sun went down the mountain.


    The man farmed and the woman wove fabric. Although they were poor, they were very happy. The husband loved his wife a lot. Every day, they would sit together and watch the sunset.


    The woman thought that this happy life of theirs would continue this way.


    However, when a horde of refugees came, her ideal life was shattered.


    Since the wife pitied them, she gave them food and water.


    She thought that they would remember her favor and leave. However, those refugees had liked the fertilend there so they forced their way to stay.


    The couple was helpless because this piece ofnd didnt belong to them. They could only open one eye and close the other. The couple had even given the refugees some seeds and taught them how to farm.


    The woman was born with a gift of beauty, which made her far prettier than the other women. A wicked refugee hadid his eyes on her. He seized the chance and killed her husband when he went to work in the fields, and imed her.


    The woman had then lived the rest of her years in grudge and resentment.


    Since she was pregnant, she didnt resist much for the sake of her child.


    Later on, she had struggled and given birth to a baby girl.


    Sadly her daughter wasnt able to escape her mothers destiny, either.


    She had given birth to a daughter and the girl had inherited her mothers gift. She grew up a beauty. In this vige, she was like a crane in a flock of poultry. Later on, she was raped, and no one from the vige was willing to save her.


    However, she was a strong young woman. She didnt cry or make a mess but instead decided to marry the bastard who had raped her.


    Afterward, she used the wicked magic she had learned from her family to kill her husband and be a widow.


    The mother and daughter thought that they could finally live in harmony with the other vigers. After a long time, their resentment had faded away.


    Perhaps the vigers had also pitied the two women or felt guilty for their sins, they had helped the two in their daily lives a lot. The mother and daughter had then used their ancestral methods to cure the vigers with herbs.


    However, no one had thought that the vigers would ever stop their hands from doing dirty deeds. It had be worse as their attention was now toward the mountain!


    To the shaman, that mountain was more important than even her own life. It was her belief. Her family had stayed here for generations and struggled with a life in poverty because of that mountain.


    That mountain was her ancestral graveyard. If they destroyed the ce, she wouldnt be able to face her parents when it was her time to go.


    The shaman felt so helpless. Eventually, she decided to use evil magic, trying to create some spiritual phenomenon to scare the vigers.


    However, the vigers didnt buy it. They continued to exploit the mountain.


    In the end, they decided to put an end to everything. They were prepared to kill all the folks here to bring peace back to Baisha Vige!


    Originally, she didnt want to deal with me since I was just an outsider. That was why the shaman wanted to let me go tonight.


    Later, she was enraged because I was about to expose her scheme.


    However, my efforts had changed her mind. She suddenly felt that the people involved had a biased opinion but an outsider had a clear view. As such, she let me, an outsider, support her justice.


    I could see that the old shaman and the young widow were nice people. The folks here had pushed them onto this and left them without a choice.


    I asked the old shaman, The stone grave behind the mountain, whose is it? And why does it only have a y jar holding a kneecap?


    The old shaman became sorrowful. She looked at the mountain in the distance with desperation. My ancestor has rested there for several thousand years, and now people havee to disturb him. Im so ipetent.


    It turned out the shaman belonged to a special profession, which was as unique as otherworldly merchants.


    She was a Ghost Doctor!


    I had heard about ghost doctors before. Due to their special treatment methods, which required dead peoples bones, they were boycotted by the other traditional doctors. Eventually, they had created their own school, calling themselves ghost doctors.


    The one who had established the school of ghost doctors was the ancient and outstanding strategist Sun Bin.


    Sun Bin had a great mind. Not only was he better than the others in applying military strategies but he was also a man of great ideas. Many professions had acknowledged him as their patron such as shoemakers, or charcoal miners, etc.


    However, the most mysterious profession amongst them all was the one about ghost doctors.


    Legend said that Sun Bin and Pang Juan had epted Gui Guzi as their teacher, learning the arts of war from him. Leaving the teacher, they had be assistants of the King of Wei. As Pang Juan had been jealous of Sun Bins talent, he had falsely used him of joining hands with the enemy. They took his kneecap and threw him to a wastnd.


    At that time, the agony Sun Bin had to endure was terrible. Since it was summer, his wound was infected, and worms began to fester.


    He decided to use poison to treat poison. He took the worms living on a rotten corpse, burned them and ground them into powder. He used that powder to treat his wound and wrapped his wound with a bandage he took from the corpse. His wound was healed after three days.


    Sun Bin then paid attention to such natural medicinal ingredients. He studied and improved those treatment methods. Eventually, he had created a school of medicine that used human bone, poisonous insects and herbs.


    Later on, Sun Bin became the Qi States military advisor. He promoted and spread out this special treatment method. Eventually, he helped the State of Qi defeat the State of Wei.


    Due to the extremely strange treatment method that could save people from death, this profession waster known as ghost doctor.


    Sun Bin had be the founder and the patron of the ghost doctor profession.


    His descendants wanted to worship and remember their great patron so they used his kneecap and bones from his legs to make a specimen and a y jar. They worshipped the items in this mountain.


    The other skeletons belonged to the guards who had watched the tomb for generations. At first, they were all distinguished guests or soldiers, but now they were justmon folks.


    The shaman had used the pinnacle of her ghost doctor knowledge to deal with the vigers here.


    It was an extinct creature called the fire worm, which hibernated in the y jar. When the vigers opened the y jar, the fire worms eggs were released. The worms eggs spread out fast, but they were parasites that lived only on men.


    At first, only a few vigers were infected. To threaten the vigers, the old shaman had taken control of a dog and sent the kneecap to theke. Since the underground water of the well was connected to theke water, the water in the well also got infected.


    She wanted to do this just to scare the vigers and make them shift their target away from the mountain. However, the stubborn vigers had invited me to help.


    The shamans story almost matched with my assumptions.


    I had guessed that the reason for the vigers poison cases was the well since I saw several water tanks in the shamans house. She had stored a lot of water so she wouldnt have to use the well water.


    I had also determined that the infected water well could be rted to the y jar and the kneecap. I intentionally told Niu Dazhuang to tell the others that I had fished up the jar.


    As the y jar was fished up, the well water wouldnt be affected anymore. The old shaman would go out and take the water from the well because her tanks did not have much water left.


    If the old shaman went there to take water at night, I could conclude that she had caused the problem. But I didnt expect to see the shamans arrangement for tonight. It was beyond what I had imagined.


    Afterward, the old shaman didnt speak further. The young widow snorted. Now you tell me, should those men die?

 Chapter 111: Return Good for Evil

    Chapter 111: Return Good for EvilLet me tell you about Sun Bins old stories! I took a deep breath then said, Pang Juan had harmed Sun Bin badly, turning him into a disabled person. Logically, Sun Bin must have hated Pang Juan to the bone, right? However, when the war between the State of Qi and the State of Wei urred, Sun Bin used his great scheme to stop Pang Juan in the Battle of Maling. Then, he didnt kill Pang Juan but let him go, and he announced to people that Pang Juan had killed himself.


    Pang Juan felt deep regret. Afterwards, he returned to continue his studies with his teacher Gui Guzi. Several yearster, Sun Bin contracted a strange illness and he had to recruit great doctors everywhere to find a treatment. However, he didnt get better. It was hisst wish to go and see his teacher Gui Guzi. At that time, Pang Juans medicinal skills had be outstanding. He applied an acupuncture treatment for Sun Bin. Eventually, Sun Bin was saved. The two then joined hands and perfected their skills, finally creating todays glory of the ghost doctor profession


    Think about it. If Sun Bin hadnt spared Pang Juans life that year, when he was terribly sick, who would have saved him? Returning good for evil is a beautiful virtue of the Chinese people. And, moreover, its to leave a blessing for yourself.


    Being a ghost doctor, not only did you inherit Sun Bins medicinal skills, you must have also inherited Sun Bins heart, which knows how to forgive!


    I didnt even know why I was that much into it, talking it at such length.


    The old shaman frowned, casting a sidelong nce to the young widow.


    The young widow turned her head to one side. Mother, Ill listen to you. I will do what you tell me to do.


    The old shaman sighed. She poured some water into the y jar and squeezed several ming-red worms, mixing them in the jar. She told me to feed the water to the vigers to detoxify the poison.


    I said, Now they are like the walking dead. Im afraid I cant do that! And, theres just a little water in the jar. Its not enough to cure them all.


    The old shaman smiled, ncing at the young widow. Go help him.


    Although the young widow was enraged, she didnt dare to go against the shaman. Eventually, she followed me outside.


    The moment I found the vigers, my head buzzed in great fear.


    Many of them had walked into the river. In the next second, the river water would be over their heads.


    Flustered, I turned to the widow, asking her to help.


    She took out a bell and jingled it with some rhythm. The jingling sounds of the bell spread fast and far through the air.


    As soon as the strange sound arose, I saw the vigers regaining their consciousness. They didnt move forward but looked around in confusion. Later on, as their physical strength was drained, they slumped.


    Around five minutester, everybody had finally gotten a hold of themselves. They didnt know why they were there. Then, they were inundated with endless fright, crying and calling their parents while heading toward the vige.


    Whileforting them, I ran to the river to pull all the people struggling there to the shore.


    Eventually, people calmed down after I hadforted them. Then, I arranged for them to take the antidote.


    Despite drinking theantidote, their symptoms werent eased.


    Niu Dazhuang looked at me in rage. You swindler! You told me you could solve the issue with that otherworldly item today. But what have you done? Youve almost killed the entire vige! I want to chop you into pieces!


    Yeah, kill him! Kill him! He harmed us! Now the Lord of the Soil has his fury on us. He wants to take our lives!


    Helplessly, I sent those folks a nce, then said, All right, quiet! From now on, your illness will get better, thanks to the shaman! The Lord of Soil has talked to her in her dreams. He doesnt want you to touch that mountain, and he instructed the shaman to give you the antidote. The shaman agreed, and your Lord of the Soil has told her how to make the elixir. What you have just drunk is the antidote. Youre safe now


    Everybody wore a questioning face. I didnt have any evidence to prove it, so I had to tell them that I wouldnt leave before they recovered.


    They finally believed me. I hurried to notify their families to go there and take the men back home.


    It seemed those women were being controlled, sleeping all the time. They couldnt wake up no matter how loud themotion was. Eventually, the young widow woke them up with her flute.


    Actually, the women in the vige had also been poisoned, but the symptoms werent visible like the mens. I thought of two possibilities. First, those female farmers werent the ones behind the mountain exploitation event. Second, it was the way the shaman and the young widow protected themselves. If the entire vige was poisoned aside from them, it would appear very suspicious.


    When we came back to the vige, Li Mazi and I were locked in the Earth Temple one more time. I was helpless but I finally understood why the shaman and the widow had to treat the vigers that way


    Had I been in their shoes, I would have also tried to kill them.


    However, I wasnt angry and decided to return good for evil. I advised them to pay attention to their wounds. It would help them recover faster if they used some hydrogen peroxide to clean them.


    I strongly believed that when I repaid evil with good, I would be rewarded in return. However, I didnt expect it woulde that fast.


    Early next morning, Niu Dazhuang excitedly charged into the temple. He didnt use his staff but ran on his own. Although he still limped, he looked better than the days before.


    Niu Dazhuang happily said, All the wounds have now dried up. They are neither painful nor itchy, and my skin is able to feel now.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. It was good that they recovered their sense of touch. My biggest concern was their knees losing their sense of touch.


    Niu Dazhuangs situation wasnt serious from the start. It was reasonable that he was the first to recover.


    For the other vigers, although they hadnt recovered as fast as Niu Dazhuang, their symptoms had gotten better. At the same time, Li Mazi and I had be their life-saviors.


    The shaman and the young widow were given the same treatment as us. I had told the vigers that the old shaman and the young widow were the reason why they could be treated. As a result, they were deeply indebted to them. Ultimately, the shaman and the widow were the ones who made the antidote.


    The old shaman and the young widow had received a lot of rice, noodles and dried meat, which had packed their houses during those two days.


    The shaman went to thank me in person. If it werent for you, we would have made a great mistake.


    A weekter, all the vigers were healed. Li Mazis situation was gradually improved.


    When I told Li Mazi the truth, he sighed continuously.


    Reluctantly, I asked him, Why are you sighing? Everything has been solved, right?


    Li Mazi turned to me, looking a little sad. I wanted to develop a rtionship with the young widow. But now, it seems she just wanted to harm me after that night.


    I smiled. How do you know that she doesnt have any feelings for you? From the way she looks at you, I feel like you have a chance. Why dont you give it a try? Ill help you pull the trigger.


    Under my encouragement, Li Mazi started his frenzy attack on the young widow. He bought many things for her, helped her with her farming, and even went to renovate her house.


    And, it worked. The young widow actively started talking to Li Mazi. She asked him to take her to the big city, to see the world out there.


    Everybody knew where that was going. Li Mazi was so happy he couldnt sleep that night. As soon as the morning came, he took the young widow and left the Baisha Vige.


    Sometimes, hate and resentment were like gasoline. If you add more to a burning barrel, it could end up exploding.


    Instead, when you used a forgiving heart to treat heartless people, you may be able to produce unimaginable results.


    May everybody have a heart as good as Sun Bins! The world would be much better if it were so!

 Chapter 112: Anorexia

    Chapter 112: Anorexia


    When I had free time, I often recalled Chuyi.


    Although I had known him for a while, in my head, his impression was really vague.


    We had not seen each other for a long time. Even if we had chances to meet, he always left us quickly like a lone knight.


    He gave me the feeling that he was living in another world.


    For example, he had never smoked nor drunk liquor.


    Furthermore, he didnt have a single friend; there was only a little Daoist ghost keeping himpany.


    The more mysterious he was, the more I was interested in him. I wanted to find an opportunity to see what kind of person he was.


    And that chance came to me quickly.


    Thus far, it was going to be the only case in my career as an otherworldly merchant where I would be working without Li Mazi.


    The rtionship between Li Mazi and the young widow grew fast. A monthter, they had married and gotten the certificate. Li Mazi took his wife to Bali for the honeymoon. He threw his son Li Meng at me and asked me to take care of him.


    Li Meng and I were close. He saw me as more of a friend than as an uncle, and he told me everything.


    On that day, after drinking several beers, Li Meng asked me to let him experience life. He wanted to join a businessmission with me.


    I knew he didnt want to study further, and would rather hang around with me. I thought I should scare the boy so he would know how dangerous it was to be an otherworldly merchant.


    On the same day, at sunset, Chuyi came to my door.


    The man was as mysterious as usual, and he didnt talk nonsense. After drinking a cup of jasmine tea, he told me the reason why he had stopped by.


    He had received a request from an old man in the circle, who asked him to solve a difficult case. However, he needed an assistant so he thought of me. I didnt hesitate to agree. Something difficult for Chuyi could be a life-threatening case for me; however, with him around, I wasnt afraid. Even if the sky fell, he would shoulder it for me.


    Of course, Li Meng, being the mischievous boy that he was, didnt want to let that chance slip away. He wore his thickest face when he asked for permission to tag along.


    After some hesitation, Chuyi agreed. He said, Could you bring Yin Xinyue along?


    I was a little surprised by that. For what?


    This time, its likely that we may need help from a female. Yin Xinyue fits my requirement.


    Yin Xinyue and Li Meng had the same character. If there was a chance to join in the fun, they would never pass it up. Eventually, Yin Xinyue joined us.


    Yin Xinyue had just bought a Land Rover, which cost around seven or eight hundred thousand renminbi. And, she apparently treated it like a bumper car. I could see so many scratches, marks and dents on both the front and the back of the car. I shook my head, feeling that it was somehow heart-rending.


    A rich woman''s world was something that a young man who had experienced poverty, like me, could never understand.


    Ever since we got in the car, Chuyi took the co-driver seat and remained silent. Sometimes, hed gaze out the window for hours. When I asked him the details of thatmission, he just shook or nodded his head.


    Quite the contrary, Yin Xinyue and Li Meng had chatted lively and noisily.


    Li Meng was very curious about the business, and Yin Xinyue was a carefree person. She bragged about her past experiences and propped herself up as an invincible big sister.


    Li Meng was stunned. He straight off begged Yin Xinyue to protect him.


    I didnt expect that our current assignment would be out of the province. We had been on the road for five or six hours already.


    When we turned to the stop service on the freeway, Chuyi suddenly asked me, Whats the most delicious dish here?


    I thought that Chuyi wanted to have a good meal. I immediately handed him the menu and suggested some dishes. Although they were really expensive, it was rare for him to be interested in something, so I had no regret.


    Chuyi disdainfully threw the menu back to the table, saying, Theyre all expensive. I want to know what a man living in the countryside would want to eat the most?


    I was surprised. I didnt understand what he meant.


    He then exined to me. Its rted to our business this time. You must think about it carefully.


    Unfortunately, my head was full of things like sea cucumbers or abalones. They were delicacies that even the rich didnt dare to eat daily. Of course, all of them were exquisite things people yearned to eat.


    However, those dishes didnt meet Chuyis requirements.


    I talked to Yin Xinyue. Eventually, we came to an agreement that big fishes or big prawns were what farmers wanted to eat the most.


    Chuyi nodded. Then, we asked the restaurant to cook two pounds of prawns braised in oil and stewed fish.


    However, Chuyi didnt eat when the food arrived. Instead, he asked the waiter to wrap the seafood to go.


    I couldnt help butugh. Id gotten used to the way Chuyi liked to work, but I was surprised nheless.


    I didnt understand how the two pounds of oily braised prawns and stewed fish were rted to our present business.


    Following his directions, we drove back to the highway and kept going until we reached a small vige.


    That vige was located in a remote area, up on a mountain. However, there was no big street leading to the vige, so Yin Xinyue had to drive her SUV as an off-road vehicle.


    Chuyi told me that the vigers cultivated fruits for a living. We could pick up fruits on the road to the mountain. Normally, the vigers would pick those fruits and sell them at a low price to the passing drivers on the highway nearby.


    As soon as we talked about wild fruits, Yin Xinyue and Li Meng became excited. They suggested after taking a bit of rest to go up to the mountain to pick wild fruits. That sort of natural, organic fruit wasnt easy to find in the city. Even if they could find some, it would be too expensive.


    Along the way, we saw several households. Although I didnt count, I knew there werent more than ten.


    The mysterious man asked Yin Xinyue to stop her Land Rover by the entrance to the vige. He took me with him but had Yin Xinyue and Li Meng remain in the car. Stay put in the car. Do not open the door for anybody else. If you encounter danger, just drive the car and run away!


    Since Chuyi had been mysterious during the whole trip, and had just advised Yin Xinyue like that, without giving any clues, I was really worried that we would bump into something extremely scaryter.


    Chuyi took me to a courtyard. As soon as we entered the ce, we saw a man crawling out from the house.


    That scene made me shudder. That man was really bony. While he was crawling on the ground, I could see bones jutting under the skin on his back. He retched, but could only vomit a sour liquid. The entire house also reeked of vomit.


    I reacted by pinching my nose tightly.


    Chuyi strode forward. He squatted by the retching man, asking him, How many days have passed since youst ate anything?


    The man raised his pale face with dull eyes, wrinkling in pain. He looked at Chuyi and showed two fingers. He couldnt even speak


    Chuyi wasnt afraid of the filthy man. He lifted the man up and took him to the bed inside the house. Then, he turned around and shot me a look.


    I hurriedly ced the boxes of braised prawns and stewed fish on the table. When I opened the boxes, delicious smells permeated the room.


    My expectation was that the poor man would end up wolfing down the food. However, he just casually nced at the boxes and shook his head. Its useless. I dont have the tiniest bit of appetite.


    Chuyi furrowed his brows and ordered, Eat!


    It seemed the other man was afraid of Chuyi. He picked up a big prawn and swiftly peeled off the shell. However, after two bites, he started to retch again. This time, I could even see traces of blood in his vomit.


    I was bewildered as I looked at him. Does he have anorexia? Why hasnt he gone to the hospital?


    The man shot me a fierce look, and Chuyi also urged me not to talk or ask things.


    You should sleep for a while, he said, Im going to take care of something with my friend


    Then, Chuyi took me out of the room.


    After we went outside, I couldnt hold my curiosity anymore. Whats going on?

 Chapter 113: Evil Icy Wind Mountain

    Chapter 113: Evil Icy Wind Mountain


    Chuyi took a deep breath and said to me with cold eyes, A man suddenly loses his appetite. Whenever he eats, he vomits. What do you think happened to him?


    I answered weakly, Anorexia? Or, is he picky?


    The man shook his head. Even if hes picky about food or has anorexia, he would still feel hunger, and he will feel full if he eats. His symptoms do not meet the criteria. Ive taken him to the hospital for a check up. His stomach and intestines are normal, and he has never had a simr problem before


    I furrowed my eyebrows, asking, Brother, tell me, how are you rted to this man? Why do you have to help him? You even took him to the hospital.


    Chuyi seemed unwilling to answer me, he did not say a word.


    Keeping silent for a while, he waved his hand. Lets go back first.


    It was really hard to imagine, for someone as mysterious and reclusive as Chuyi to have this type of rtionship with a farmer in the countryside. Deep down, I didnt believe that he would treat someone that nicely without a reason. I was even jealous; the man was being treated so nicely by him.


    Before we got close to the Land Rover, I heard Li Meng shouting. Immediately, I had a headache. That kid didnt have a solidmon sense. Chuyi had clearly told him that he had to stay in the car and not cause any trouble.


    When we reached the entrance of the vige, we saw Li Meng quarrelling with a man in his forties or fifties. Some vigers were watching the fun.


    From their shouting, I understood that the man wanted Li Meng to move away and that he wasnt allowed to park the vehicle there. Li Meng didnt listen to him so they had started shouting at each other.


    Chuyi shook his head, scoffing the word stupid, before walking towards them.


    I was worried that he would scold Li Meng and hurt the boys feelings. Thus, I moved forward, pulling Li Meng and forcing him into the car. Then, I offered the middle-aged farmer a cigarette.


    The farmer didnt like the gesture. He pped my cigarette away, ncing at Chuyi and yelling, I told you not to poke your nose in this. Why did youe here again?!


    Chuyi let out a sigh then left with us; we drove away.


    When we got back to the highway, I was puzzled so I asked him, Who was the farmer who shooed us away? It seems like this is going to be a thankless task!


    I hated this sort of business a lot. We took risks and werent sure if we could earn a dime. As if that wasnt enough, those guys were treating us like a bunch of rats running on the street.


    Chuyi told me, Zhou Laoshi is the one wholl starve to death soon. And, the farmer who just quarreled with us is Zhou Laoshis brother, Zhou Tufu. Hes a butcher, a treacherous one.


    Chuyi had gone there to help Zhou Laoshi without mentioning any payment. However, Zhou Tufu hated his guts. He didnt want the man to help his brother. Even thest time, Chuyi had to secretly sneak in and take Zhou Laoshi to the hospital.


    Not only me, even Yin Xinyue was surprised.


    We didnt know why Chuyi would go to such length when he wasnt weed.


    Chuyi threw a nce to the back of the car and then said, There are some things we cant measure with money or wealth. Stop the car.


    I quickly stepped on the brakes. I still couldnt believe that Chuyi wanted to go back there!


    And, he had just told us a phrase with an underlying significance. There were things we shouldnt use money to measure. Zhou Laoshis and Chuyis lives must intertwine in ways we still didnt know about.


    Chuyi suddenly asked, Yin Xinyue, you stayed in the car the whole time, so Zhou Tufu hasnt seen you yet, right?


    Yin Xinyue didnt understand the meaning behind Chuyis question. She didnt know what he wanted to do, but still, she gave him a nod. Yes, thats right.


    "Good then, the man said, Go to his house. Try to figure out what Zhou Tufuhas fed his brother Zhou Laoshi.


    Didnt Zhou Laoshi say that he hasnt eaten anything? I hurriedly asked.


    Chuyi sneered. Think about it. If a man hasnt eaten a thing in a month, could he survive? Every day, Zhou Tufu brings a bag to Zhou Laoshi. I am assuming hes been feeding him something. Perhaps, the problem is what he has been using to feed his brother


    Yin Xinyue nodded. All right, Im heading there to look around.


    I was a little worried, so I asked Chuyi, Will Yin Xinyue be in danger? Whatever the case may be, Zhou Tufu looks like a malicious person.


    Chuyi immediately instructed Yin Xinyue, You should sneak into the vige. In case someone sees you, just say you went there to ask for some water. Do not act rashly.


    Then, he gave Yin Xinyue a small peach wood sword, and asked her to keep it by her side all time. If she encountered anything dangerous, she would need to break the sword. It would immediately alert him.


    That magic toy had aroused Li Mengs interest. He asked Chuyi, Can I have one? Is that a magic wand? Did you add magic to it?


    Anyway, although Yin Xinyue was equipped with the little peach wood sword, it wasnt enough to ease my mind. I drove the Land Rover to the area near the vige, then waited.


    We had just seen Zhou Tufuonce but I could clearly feel the murderous auraing from his body. I had a feeling that he had made contact with some otherworldly item. Zhou Laoshi had been tortured extensively, to the point that he had be a walking skeleton; was it ZhouTufus doing?


    If that was the case, it would be easier to exin why Zhou Tufu had tried to stop us from saving his brother several times.


    I turned to talk to Chuyi. Have you asked Zhou Laoshi about Zhou Tufu? Could ZhouTufu be the culprit?


    Chuyi answered, Its one of the things Ive wondered about. Zhou Laoshi told me that they have a good rtionship. As their parents had died very early, they had been supporting each other. Whenever they had a steamed bun, they would share it. And, Zhou Laoshi has always satisfied Zhou Tofus demands.


    No matter what he asked for, Zhou Laoshi would alwaysply, never questioning him. Theres no conflict of interests between them. And, although ZhouTufu looks fierce, hes generous and righteous. Hes not a bad person.


    I trusted his instincts in regards to reading people. If he said the man was generous and righteous, that person wouldnt be a bad guy.


    Could there be something wrong with this small vige? I asked.


    He shook his head. The geomancy here is really good. Although it cannot give great fortune to theter generations of the people living here, it can keep them safe.


    When he got to that point, Chuyi seemed to remember something. However


    His deep eyes turned to see the various kinds of fruits in the orchards behind the mountain. Ive always felt that theres something wrong with that mountain in particr.


    I asked, Whats wrong with it?


    He took a deep breath and then continued, Take a look at the mountain over there. Can you tell me about its geomancy?


    My geomancy knowledge was superficial. I hadnt officially learned a solid set of knowledge from my father and grandfather. I had just read some books about it.


    But, since Chuyi is asking me, I shouldnt shame my grandfather, right?


    I squinted and focused my attention on the mountain.


    At first nce, I realized the issue.


    That mountain was the typical Evil Icy Wind Mountain setup in geomancy. Two high summits shadowed the nks and the valley inside.


    With a geomantic arrangement like that, it was very hard for nts to grow, let alone cultivating some fruits.


    It was also exinable using science. The valley inside the mountain was covered, preventing sunlight from reaching it. With no sunlight, the environment was not suitable for nts.


    However, the mountain and the nearby hills were covered in fruit trees. Moreover, all of them were strangely lush! It was hard not to question. I was sure it was something that had affected the mountains geomancy.


    I then exined my observations to Chuyi.


    He nodded. Exactly. This mountain is strange. I also feel the same way. Perhaps its rted to Zhou Laoshis illness. If we can find the secret of that mountain, we may be able to save him


    I was stunned and gawked at him. Arent we here to deal with some otherworldly item? How could something like geomancy be involved?

 Chapter 114: Beware of the Man Wearing the Kumamon t-shirt

    Chapter 114: Beware of the Man Wearing the Kumamon t-shirt


    Chuyi patiently exined, Otherworldly trading is a very obscure profession. The knowledge of those who practice this trade includes different things, like the Five Elements, the Eight Diagrams, geomancy, numerology, ghost hunting and how to subdue demons. Some can even resurrect the dead. To the rest, otherworldly tradingis a very mysterious activity, but their point of view is only superficial.


    You need to know so much more to be an otherworldly merchant, if youpare it with any other profession. And, what you know has to be varied. Since otherworldly merchants are really awesome and somewhat magical, people often mistake them for swindlers


    I had a headache. My knowledge was still limited.


    I seized the chance and asked away, intending to bring light to all the doubts I had from my past years practice.


    Chuyi turned out to be a real expert. He answered all of my questions easily. He even gave me a systematic knowledge summary about the otherworldly items business.


    Thanks to him, my previously half-full bottle of knowledge reached two thirds within hours.


    However, there was still room to fill.


    The afternoon had gone by without me noticing. I became a bit anxious once I saw the sky getting darker. What time is it? Yin Xinyue hasnte back yet!


    I was really worried. Should we go and find Yin Xinyue?


    Chuyi hesitated for a while and then nodded. OK, lets go and find her.


    However, it was toote.


    Zhou Laoshis ce was empty when we arrived.


    The room was normal; there were no signs of struggle. Zhou Laoshis bed was cold. It seemed as if everyone had vanished into thin air.


    My first thought was that Zhou Tufu had taken them away.


    Zhou Laoshi was ill and he always listened to ZhouTufu; that could exin why he had not resisted. But where is Yin Xinyue? Its impossible that she would have left willingly.


    Even if she couldnt fight against Zhou Tufu, she should have had enough time to break the peach wood sword.


    What happened during that time?


    Right at that moment, I heard Li Meng shrieking.


    I was taken aback. Li Meng, are you okay?


    Li Meng had picked up a small peach wood sword that was lying on the ground. Taking a closer look, it was the one Chuyi had given to Yin Xinyue for protection.


    The small wooden sword was still intact. Carefully checking the ground once again, I found a small puddle of blood near the ce where the sword had been found. Damn!


    My heart sank.


    I could already imagine what Yin Xinyue had encountered.


    Zhou Tufu had hidden himself well in advance; then he attacked her with a stick the moment she sneaked into the house. She didnt even have time to react or break the peach wood sword. She was hit and immediately fell unconscious.


    Zhou Tufu then carried Yin Xinyue and pulled Zhou Laoshi along, leaving the ce together.


    However, where did they go? Would Yin Xinyue be in danger?


    I finally realized how important Yin Xinyue was to me. I vowed to the heavens that if she was safe and sound, I would marry her and never leave her for the rest of my life.


    Li Meng was scared. He shakily asked Chuyi, Wheres Yin Xinyue?


    Chuyi said naturally, We waited by the eastern road all this time; they couldnt have left the vige. The western road was their only option... and that road leads directly to the mountain further back.


    After listening to him, I madly rushed towards the mountain. Li Meng couldnt run fast; I had to leave some stones at certain intervals so he could find the way.


    The road to the mountain was really bumpy. To make matters worse, the road was quite muddy as it must have rained for a while. If we werent careful, we would stumble into the asional puddles.


    It was a challenge for a persons physical skills. The mysterious man was moving in a nimble and swift manner across the puddles while I was struggling all the way, tripping a few times. Ultimately, I couldnt catch up with him; his figure slowly faded away from view.


    I was desperate. How could I find Chuyi? What if Butcher Zhou was lying in wait to ambush us in the mountain?


    I soon entered the area behind the mountain. It was spacious and poorly lit, so it wouldnt be easy to find them.


    However, I didnt dare to step back. Every minute wasted would be another minute of suffering for Yin Xinyue.


    Who knew what that crazy Zhou Tufu would do to her?


    I patiently pushed away all the tree branches hindering my way, while pricking my ears, trying to detect anymotion in the area. If Yin Xinyue was alive, she would surely be screaming for help.


    Shortly after, I heard something!


    However, it wasnt Yin Xinyue. The steps sounded disorderly; It seemed that someone was approaching me from behind.


    I turned my head to see; right then, a shadow appeared out of nowhere.


    I took a deep breath and kicked him.


    The man reacted swiftly. He skillfully grabbed my leg and used my own force to send me to the ground.


    Enraged, I got back up. However, in that moment, the mysterious mans voice reached my ears. Dont move. Its me.


    I calmed down after hearing Chuyis voice. Whats going on? Did you find Yin Xinyue?


    Chuyi kept silent for a while, then said, Lets head back, now.


    Head back? I was startled. How could I abandon Yin Xinyue in such a critical moment?


    I was so flustered I almost cried. No, Im not going back! God knows what Zhou Tufu would do to her!


    Chuyi tried to ease my mind. Shes not in danger. Its rted to some secret sect. One of their rules prevents them from attacking females.


    I exhaled in relief after hearing that; however, I was still worried. Even if they wouldnt hurt Yin Xinyue, we still had to find her as soon as possible. Chuyi told me, Li Meng got hurt. We need to go back to save him. Tomorrow well discuss how to save Yin Xinyue!


    I was still anxious. I looked at the mans eyes, trying to read something from them.


    However, he didnt look back at me and directly turned around to leave.


    I sighed helplessly. I knew my efforts would be in vain if the man left and I stayed in that dark ce.


    I asked Chuyi, How serious is Li Mengs injury? Who attacked him? Was it Zhou Tufu?


    The man mouthed, Ghost.


    In that dark environment, the fear produced by that word was extreme.


    I asked eagerly, What kind of ghost was it? There was no reply. We made our way to the forest outskirts behind the mountain.


    He pointed to a ce ahead of us. I saw Li Meng lying on a rock, his face covered in blood.


    Shocked by the sight, I rushed forward to check his pulse and breathing.


    Still good, his vital signs are stable!


    I carried him on my back, hurrying to get down the mountain.


    If something happened to Li Meng, I wouldnt know how to face Li Mazi!


    After taking a breather, I continued and carried Li Meng all the way back to the vige. He was still unconscious. Once I wiped the blood on his face, I found that it was just a small cut on his forehead.


    Still, he had yet to awaken. Filled with anxiety, I was ready to take him to the hospital.


    Chuyi stopped me, saying that he had a method to treat him; he opened Li Mengs mouth, cing a small pellet inside. Then, he made some hand symbols with both hands and drew something on Li Mengs face. Eventually, his eyelids moved.


    Relieved by his reaction, I moved closer and called his name.


    Li Meng looked extremely weak at the moment. He asked for water; he slowly came to his senses after I had given him some.


    I hurried to ask him, Li Meng, how do you feel? Who attacked you?


    Li Meng was still scared. He nced at Chuyi, seemingly wanting to say something. Chuyi was sending a menacing look to Li Meng the moment I turned to see him.


    However, shortly after, the mysterious man turned his eyes to another direction.


    Whats going on? Chuyi doesnt want Li Meng to talk? What does he have in mind? What cant he tell me?


    I was so confused.


    As the man was still there, Li Meng didnt dare to talk. I decided to wait for a chance to ask the boy once we were alone.


    But Chuyi didnt leave the room for even a moment.


    That made me feel anxious.


    What happened after all? What does he want to hide from me?


    There was a possibility: Chuyi was the attacker and he didnt want to be exposed.


    I chastised myself as soon as the thought came to mind. How could I think about him that way? He had always tried his best to protect us. He wasnt the type of person who would y tricks. If he had wanted to harm us, he would have done it already. He didnt need to act in secret.


    What was his purpose after all? Why was he preventing Li Meng from telling me the truth?


    I stopped asking further and helped Li Meng to lie down and sleep, then I looked for a ce to rest.


    Chuyi finally loosened his vignce. He went to the door to keep watch at night.


    I took out a pen and a piece of paper to jot down my question when the man wasnt paying attention to us. Afterwards, I woke Li Meng up.


    Li Meng immediately understood what I meant, once he woke up and saw the paper and pen. He took them and wrote a line.


    "Beware of the man wearing the Kumamon t-shirt!


    My heart couldnt help but throb once after reading the answer.


    My biggest worry came to be! There was something wrong with Chuyi!

 Chapter 115: Three Taboos

    Chapter 115: Three Taboos


    I had felt that there was something wrong about Chuyi since day one.


    He proactively sought us out for help. Moreover, he had specially requested for Yin Xinyue to join them, which waspletely out of character.


    The usually cold-faced man then enthusiastically helped Zhou Laoshi. In the past, he would have opted to stab the other person with his sword if someone treated him like that.


    While we were in the forest inside the mountain, Chuyi directly took us back when we encountered some danger instead of caring about his teammate. That was even harder to exin. He had always valued camaraderie; he would rather suffer than to see his friends in danger.


    All the signs showed that Chuyi was hiding something!


    Could someone be impersonating him? If so, why would he want to do that? I cant think of a reason.


    Was Yin Xinyue in danger then? It was also possible that Zhou Tufu and Zhou Laoshi were also the pawns arranged by the possibly fake Chuyi.


    The thought gave me the shivers. My bright eyes gazed at the mans slender back; I hated that I couldnt just tie him up to question him.


    I was aware of his skills. He could easily turn things around and beat me me if I tried ambushing him.


    But I cant just sit here and wait for death. No, I must do something.


    I forcefully cleared my mind and thought hard toe up with a n.


    I walked out of the room momentster. Chuyi stopped me when I reached the door. What are you doing?


    I yawned. I need to pee.


    He then let me go.


    The toilet in that ce was next to the poultry yard and the pig pen.


    The so-called toilet was just a pit. I came up with that excuse to find a chance to flee. I had to go to the mountain to find Yin Xinyue. I couldnt let her stay suffering up in the mountain, even if the path was fraught with danger.


    I observed the surroundings while I peed and found that it wasnt hard to escape. I spotted a good ce and prepared to jump over the wall.


    Just as I was about to take action, a fair-skinned arm suddenly jutted out from the other side of the wall. It scared me out of my wits!


    I couldnt afford to be flustered at that moment, so I tried to calm down and stay put; even the slightest detail could be important.Maybe the person is trying to tell me something?


    The pale hand was holding a piece of paper. I hurried over and grabbed it before it fell into the pig pen.


    It was clearly a message for me, since it was sent right at that moment. Even though I didnt know whether the person was a friend or an enemy, that piece of paper had to contain something very important.


    I was moved after giving the paper a nce.Its him. Yeah, its definitely him!


    Somehow, I understood what happened.


    My heart was mollified after receiving that piece of paper. I quietly checked the surroundings and found that Chuyi wasnt paying attention to me. I seized the moment and burned the paper into ashes. I casually walked out of the pig pen, acting as if nothing was out of the ordinary.


    I discreetly kept monitoring the mans expressions. He didnt doubt me at all.


    I felt more at ease thanks to that piece of paper. As long as I stayed away from the mountain, things would be fine. That piece of paper contained three messages.


    First of all, the Chuyi we were traveling with was an impostor. He wanted to plot against me.


    The second message had to do with Chuyis n. He asked me to cooperate with his impersonator. However, he told me about three taboos Do not stay near the red river, stay far from the talking well, and dont go to the moving mountain.


    Thest message stated that Yin Xinyue was safe. Chuyi asked Yin Xinyue to sign her name on the back of the paper so I would believe it.


    Indeed, her delicate and beautiful handwriting was unmistakable.


    I tried waiting until the break of dawn. Nothing dangerous happened.


    I urged the fake Chuyi to go to the mountain as soon as the sky brightened up and he didnt take it badly. We went on our way after we had a simple breakfast.


    Li Meng was still in bed feeling sick. He didnt look well so I asked the fake Chuyi to allow him to stay resting in the vige. However, I secretly handed him a piece of paper before we left. You must seize the chance to escape after we leave. Dont stay here.


    That ce wasnt safe. I was also worried about Li Mengs wellbeing; it was possible that the fake Chuyi had partners helping him.


    I wanted to ask Li Meng about what had happened the day before. I didnt get the chance to though; the impostor always kept an eye on us. I resolutely shut my mouth and refrained from asking. The fake Chuyi took me to the mountain shortly after.


    The message in the paper kept shing in my head. Do not go near the red river; stay away from the moving mountain and the talking well.


    The three taboos Chuyi mentioned were all unnatural. Which river would turn red? Which mountain was able to move? Which well was able to talk?


    All right, I dont care. Ill act ording to the situation!


    The trip would have been worth it if I could see those three wonders of the world.


    We followed the muddy trail as we got deeper into the mountain. Soon we arrived at the area we had reached the day before.


    There was no road. I didnt know how I had managed to make my way there.


    The ce was barren and quite far from the orchards. Wild nts and grass surrounded the ce like a natural jail. It gave off a suppressing feeling.


    I asked the fake Chuyi, Which direction should we take?


    The fake man nced around and then said, Follow me!


    He headed to the summit of the mountain. I felt suspicious so I hurriedly followed him.


    The summit was filled with fruit trees; people would normally go there to water them or to add fertilizer. Yin Xinyue would have been spotted sooner if she were held hostage there. Why would he want to go to that mountain?


    Even though I had to avoid them, I felt that I would see those three wonders of the world soon. The fake Chuyi was definitely leading me to them with evil intentions.


    I heard the distinct sound of running water moments after we continued on our way.


    I furrowed my eyebrows because of it. It was a stream... Was it the red river mentioned in the message?


    The fake Chuyi moved faster once he heard the sound. He also urged me to speed up.


    Soon we arrived at the nearby sound source; it was a stream running down the mountain. The water was cool and clear and I could see fishes swimming back and forth. All in all, it was a nice scenery.


    I exhaled in relief after seeing that the stream water wasnt red.


    The impostor washed his face and gestured at me to do the same.


    Since arriving in the vige yesterday, I had yet to wash my face. It had been over a day so I was feeling ufortable. I squatted down and scooped the cool water with both hands to stter it on my face; I could feel my tiredness and depression being washed away.


    The fresh air entered my nose. I couldnt help but close my eyes to enjoy that pleasant feeling.


    However, the moment I opened my eyes, I was startled by what I saw. The clear and quiet stream had changed into a murky brown-red hue and it was running faster.


    I could sense the faint smell of blood in the air!


    The red river. Its the freakin red river!


    I shivered in fear and hurriedly prepared myself to run away. However, the moment I turned around, I saw the fake Chuyi standing on one side while wearing a cold smile on his face.


    My heart sank once I noticed that sneer.


    What does that mean? Am I trapped? Oh right, I just got close to the red river!


    I kept worrying for a while, since I didnt know what would happen to me at this point.


    The fake Chuyi simply looked at me as I stood bewildered. He said, Lets go.


    I hurried to follow him. I kept reminding myself to keep a sharp eye after that. I had to do my best to avoid the other taboos; the moving mountain and the talking well.


    We saw shrubs and trees on our way. Soon we found the trail used by the farmers to get to the mountain peak. The fake Chuyi looked at the peak and told me, Zhou Tufu often goes to the mountain to collect wood. He has a lodge there. Its possible that he might be restraining Yin Xinyue at the peak of the mountain.


    I was surprised. I looked at him and asked, How do you know so much about Zhou Tufu?


    Ive tailed him before, the fake Chuyi said casually.


    If thats the case, have you been suspicious of Zhou Tufu for a while?


    He didnt answer me and simply walked ahead, leading the way to the mountain. I wondered if he didnt want to answer me, or whether he simply didnt hear my question.


    I observed the area before climbing up that mountain, trying to see if it could be the one mentioned in the message.


    All right, there are no signs that the mountain is moving.The ce looked normal; it had abundant shade and lush trees, which made it a nice ce to take a rest.


    The mountain path was bumpy, but we were lucky that there was a path at all; it was much easier than to go through the shrubbery as we did before. We reached the summit not long after.


    The mountain wasnt high but it offered a wide vision, giving the feeling that you could see the entire world while standing on its peak.


    The blue sky was high above our heads and white clouds bobbed around. The ripe apples looked inviting so I picked one and sank my teeth into the flesh. The sweet nectar immediately seeped into my heart and my burning throat felt much better.


    The cool wind blew over and took away the heat radiated by my body.


    However, the next time I looked down made me gawk in shock!


    The clouds hovering around the mountain nks were slowly moving and thickening. I couldnt see the ground anymore.


    All those elements and motion made me hallucinate. I thought it wasnt the clouds that moved... The mountain itself was moving!


    The moving mountain!


    Not good, the message on the paper told me to steer clear from the moving mountain. And yet I climbed it!


    Panicked and distressed, I couldnt help but turn around and look at the fake Chuyi. I could tell his cold smile was widening.


    However, he swiftly hid his sneer away and returned to his emotionless face when I looked at him.


    What should I do? Do I still have a chance to make my way down the mountain? It may be impossible since I vited two taboos


    I anxiously watched the fake Chuyi, feeling like a pawn in his hand; he could do with me as he pleased.


    That damn note! Why did it have to say the red river or the moving mountain? Just tell me that I shouldnt go near the small stream or the orchard mountain. It would have been much better. Sigh, its not nice to ponder over each word!


    The fake Chuyi urged me, Move. Lets see if we can find Yin Xinyue in the area.


    I didnt dare to follow him, as I would surely go near the talking well if Iplied. I had to try my best to break that deadlock and avoid being led by the nose!

 Chapter 116: The Talking Well

    Chapter 116: The Talking Well


    I protested after making up my mind, But I think Zhou Tufu wouldnt keep her here. It is an orchard, so people woulde daily to check their fruits. Its easy to be exposed here


    I thought that the fake Chuyi would advise me about something and persuade me to continue moving further.


    However, the man didnt say anything in rebuttal. He just started to walk down the mountain.


    We hadnt moved two steps and I heard someone calling for help from behind.


    I heard the voice and my scalp felt numb. It was a female voice calling for help; it sounded quite simr to Yin Xinyues voice!


    Although it was unclear and interrupted, this was still a clue. How could I let it go?


    I immediately called the fake Chuyi, resolutely heading towards the source of the call. The impostor followed close behind me.


    People didnt grow fruit trees there. Not even a de of grass was found in the surrounding hundreds of square meters; the entire ce was bare. As I made my way up, the voice calling for help became louder!


    This time, I was certain it was Yin Xinyues voice. Her voice had always been tender and loving, but it was filled with fear and anxiety at the moment. My heart ached and I forgot everything else including the warning message.


    I rushed towards the ce where the voice originated from. It seemed toe out from a cave.


    I gawked in astonishment when I got there; that cave was a vertical shaft reaching the bottom of the mountain and the space inside was just a vast mass of darkness. I didnt know how deep it was, but Yin Xinyues call for help arose from the bottom.


    Heat attacked my brain. I wanted to jump down to save her.


    However, I eventually got a hold of myself, as I couldnt do that. <em>This is a well, a talking well!</em>


    If I jumped, something very dangerous would happen. My little life would go down the drain and it would be impossible to rescue Yin Xinyue.


    I tried to suppress my stirring heart as I asked, Yin Xinyue! Are you there?


    Help me! Help me!


    Yin Xinyue screamed louder.


    I immediatelyforted her. Dont you worry. Im going down there to save you.


    <em>All right, I dont care about those damn taboos. I need to save her right now!</em><em>I dont care if I put myself in danger!</em>


    However, I felt a hand grabbing my arm and pushing me before I could climb down. I was about to fall into the deep pit after losing my bnce.


    I was shocked by this so I turned my head out of instinct, finding it was the fake Chuyi who had just pushed me.


    His face had a malicious and cold smile, an expression the real Chuyi would never use.


    I was scared as I looked at him. What is your intention?


    Nothing, the man said, You interfered with our business. You must be punished


    Youre not Chuyi, I exposed him and asked, Who are you?


    Heughed and raised his hand to pull and tear his facial skin off. His face was then revealed.


    <em>Damn</em><em>, its Zhou</em><em>Tufu</em><em>!</em>


    I felt disgusted. You bastard! You dare impersonate Chuyi. Arent you afraid that he would kill you?!


    Zhou Tufus smile turned even more sinister and replied, Shut it! He cant even save himself now. He cant save you!


    Bullshit! I cursed. Chuyi is really powerful. How could he not be able to protect himself? Dont talk nonsense.


    My heart was racing, although I tried to sound confident.


    I thought Zhou Tufu was telling me the truth. If Chuyi was all right, he would have arrived and saved me right then. He didnt need to throw me that piece of paper What had that man done to Chuyi?


    Good then, Zhou Tufu smiled and said, I shall send you to reunite with him!


    Zhou Tufu pushed me again, trying to send me down into the cave.


    Flustered, I grabbed a rock by the caves entrance. Zhou Tufu didnt let me go. He drew the sword on his back and aimed at my hand.


    I could only let go of the rock in such a desperate situation.


    His sword still drew a cut on my arm however, which was neither deep nor shallow.


    My body was falling free, cold wind blowing at me. I tried grabbing onto something but only found slippery walls on both sides. There was nothing else


    The cave was so deep that I had yet to reach the bottom. As time passed, my worries grew bigger; I would die if I couldnt slow down my fall.


    I swiftly stretched out all my limbs, trying to stick to the stone wall. I had to be persistent, regardless of the painful scratches.


    The space grew wider as I fell, however, to the point I was unable to reach the wall. Fortunately, I wasnt very hurt, eventuallynding with a grunt.


    I gritted my teeth and stood up, although my body was aching. There was only one thing in my head at the moment: I had to save Yin Xinyue!


    I heard her after a while. I-Im here


    I switched on my phones shlight and scanned the ce. Finally, I saw Yin Xinyues silhouette in a corner, her body curled into a ball. She couldnt help but burst out crying once she saw me.


    I immediately rushed forward and pulled her close, trying to gentlyfort her. Hush, Yin Xinyue, dont cry. Im here. Im here to save you, OK?


    She wiped her tears and tried to stop sobbing. Brother Zhang, check this ce Look, what are they?


    What? I didnt get it so I increased the brightness of my phones shlight. My heart thumped haphazardly when I saw the surroundings.


    <em>Gosh, have I just fallen into Hell? Is this theyer of hungry ghosts in the eighteenyers of Hell?</em>


    Dried corpses packed that subterranean space.


    The dried corpses were not dposed, but their skin had turned dark. You could see they were from different eras by observing their clothes, ranging from ancient to modern times.


    The facial features of those corpses were twisted strangely, and their bodies only had skin covering their skeletons. Their empty sockets gazed at us


    I took a deep breath. The air in that ce was filled with the smell of dposed things.


    I hugged Yin Xinyue tighter, taking her to a spot where it didnt have any corpses. I didnt dare to look at those corpses further and just used a tender, soft voice to ease Yin Xinyue.


    She finally regained herposure. Then she told me desperate news.


    Yin Xinyues encounter indeed happened the way I had imagined. When she went to Zhou Laoshis house, she found him eating a strange nt that Zhou Tufu had given him.


    Yin Xinyue found it strange. Why was Zhou Laoshi unwilling to eat the big fish or the prawns we had bought for him but wolfed down the rough and unsavory looking nt?


    She wanted to go and ask him. But then her nape felt numb and she directly fell unconscious. The little peach wood sword was taken from her hand.


    She woke up and found herself in that ce. Moreover, she had found a dying Chuyi in a corner with wounds all over his body. However, those wounds didnt seem to be created with external force or cuts. It looked as if his skin had cracked.


    Chuyi looked skinnier and it seemed as if he could barely move his eyes.


    He didnt say a thing.


    Yin Xinyue hurried to help him treat his wounds, but she didnt have anything that could help him. She could only wrap his wounds a little bit.


    She unknowingly went to sleep after that. Chuyi was nowhere to be seen when she woke up. She thought he had escaped from that cave.


    I was crestfallen. Chuyi was practically an invincible figure in my heart, yet someone had tortured him like a dog. And one more thing, how did he escape from this ce?


    Yin Xinyue had also said that after Zhou Tufu ambushed her and left her unconscious, the first thing he had done was to take the little peach wood sword in her hand.


    That action alone made it obvious that Zhou Tufu was aware of the function of the peach wood sword. Perhaps he was also someone with great skills!


    <em>He can impersonate people, change his face, his voice, and even his shape It seems that we are fighting against a great enemy this time!</em>


    No wonder Zhou Tufu was so haughty; Chuyi would find it hard to protect against him.


    My heart sank to the bottom and I reprimanded myself for being stupid. Chuyi had clearly warned me against the three taboos, and yet, I had touched them all. Damn!


    Yin Xinyue asked, Do you have any way to escape this ce?


    No need to worry, I have a n, I said tofort her.


    Yin Xinyue knew that I was trying to make her feel better, so she didnt ask any further.


    I scratched my head while I thought of a possible solution. How could we escape from here?


    Meanwhile, more questions continued to pop up in my head.


    Why did Zhou Tufu want to impersonate Chuyi to trick us into going to this ce? What about these dried corpses? What was their purpose?


    Yin Xinyue soon drifted into sleep in my arms. She was quite weak since she hadnt eaten nor drunk any water for a whole day.


    I gently helped hery down, then I looked around for something that could help us escape. However, there was nothing aside from a lot of grass on the ground; finding strong vines that we could use was out of the question.


    I squatted and picked a de of grass while trying to ovee my distress.


    <em>This ce doesnt receive sunlight or enough water. How could grass grow here...?</em>

 Chapter 117: Boyi and Shuqi

    Chapter 117: Boyi and Shuqi


    I knew that type of grass; it belonged to the group of nts called Ferns. Although people wouldnt use them as a source of food, they were useful because of their digestive properties. In other words, the more people ate the nt, the hungrier they would be.


    I was disappointed, so I threw the fern back to the ground and lifted my head to look at the ce above.


    Yin Xinyue woke up while I was studying the fern. She told me she had seen Zhou Tufu feeding Zhou Laoshi with that grass.


    It suddenly came to me; Zhou Laoshis sickness was indeed associated with those ferns.


    Somemotion above my head roused me from my deep thinking.


    Yin Xinyues eyes showed tension the moment she heard the noise. She thought that Zhou Tufu had returned.


    I patted Yin Xinyues shoulder to calm her down.


    It was then that we heard someone moving the stone. The only source of light in the cave was obstructed after that.


    <em>No need to wonder about it, Im sure Zhou</em><em>Tufu</em><em>covered the entrance with a stone to prevent us from getting out!</em>


    I cursed the ck-hearted Zhou Tufu under my breath.


    After the footsteps faded away, Yin Xinyue asked, What happened?


    I replied, The cave was sealed.


    Yin Xinyue became more desperate and whined, Were going to die here.


    Then we heard more footstepsing from above our heads.


    For a moment I entertained the thought that Zhou Tufu might have turned the ce into atrine, and was in a hurry because of his diarrhea. Otherwise, why would he return? What did he want?


    While thinking, we found a beam of lighting down from the entrance. It seemed that someone had slightly moved the stone.


    I rushed and looked up; indeed, the stone had been moved. A familiar voice reached us afterwards, Uncle, are you down there?


    <em>Its Li Meng!</em>


    I was excited. Yes, yes, yes. Were down here. Kiddo, how were you able to get here?


    Li Meng said, Zhou Tufu went back to the vige. I knew that something bad must have happened since he was alone, so I trailed him in secret. Then I saw him use a stone to seal this cave and imprison you.


    Yin Xinyue was ted. Little Meng, save me. Ill give you the Land Rover when we go back home.


    Li Meng was thrilled by that and hurriedly threw us a rope. I tied the rope around Yin Xinyues waist and asked Li Meng to pull her up first.


    Li Meng was weak but Yin Xinyue wasnt heavy; he was able to pull her up easily.


    The two then dropped the rope into the cave, ready to hoist me up.


    However, someone rushed out of the group of corpses as soon as my body was lifted. He moved as fast as a panther and reached my side instantly. I didnt have enough time to react before he pulled me down.


    I was terrified. I didnt expect to find that there was a living being among those dried corpses!


    Li Meng and Yin Xinyue couldnt see what was happening down there. They screamed and asked me, Whats going on?!


    I shouted loudly, Pull the rope back, the corpses areing back to life!


    Li Meng and Yin Xinyue heard me. They threw some stones into the cave out of despair.


    However, the dried corpse spoke right at that moment. Rx, its me.


    <em>Its Chuyis voice!</em>


    He was hiding amongst the dried corpses all this time without us knowing.


    I observed the person before me using the faint light avable. It was Chuyi! However, he looked ashen and was wearing ragged clothes. The fringe in front of his forehead was disheveled. He looked pitiful, which was a stark contrast to his usual idol-like appearance.


    I could never imagine that Chuyi would have a day like that.


    I hurried to ask him, Whats happening? Why were you trapped here?


    Its okay. Im here to talk to these dried corpses. I wanted to ask them about some details. I was speechless. <em>He can talk with dried corpses? What kind of talent is that?</em>


    Yin Xinyue approached the cave entrance. What can we do to help you guys?


    Chuyis answer surprised me. You two find a ce and hide away, do not let Zhou Tufu find you. One more thing: go to Zhou Tufus house every night between 11:00 PM and 1:00 AM and throw some ravens blood there, then bring us some food after 1:00 AM


    I asked Chuyi with concern, Arent we giving ourselves away if we throw ravens blood at his house? Zhou Tufu would catch us.


    The man smiled at me mysteriously. Dont worry! Hell be unable to move at that time. Even if he saw you, he would be unable to do anything about it!


    I believed him after seeing his confident face.


    Yin Xinyue and Li Meng were worried sick about us, but Chuyi asked them to leave in a hurry. Otherwise, if they were discovered, everything would have been in vain!


    I didnt dare to question Chuyis words. There was nothing else that I could do, so I sent the other two away.


    I turned and asked Chuyi after they left, What happened? How did you find this countryside vige?


    Chuyi sighed and then told me the details.


    It turned out that he had already spotted Zhou Tufus strangeness the first time he went to the vige for themission. That butcher was probably rted to some evil cult!


    That cult had spread in ancient times but hadter disappeared in the waves of history. Chuyi didnt expect to see its me rising again from the ashes.


    He knew the consequences would be unimaginably bad if he allowed them to exist.


    That was why he wanted to clean them up at once. However, he couldnt do it alone so he sought our help.


    In other words, it was the real Chuyi who looked for us in the beginning. Zhou Tufu then impersonated him on our first visit to the mountain forest


    Chuyi led the group and entered the mountain first. Once there, Zhou Tufu ambushed him with a powerful magic attack, catching Chuyi unprepared and shoving him into the cave.


    If it were an ordinary person, his life would have been snuffed out on the spot after the magic attack. Fortunately Chuyi wasnt an ordinary being. He resisted andnded at the bottom of the cave.


    He had been staying idle with the horde of dried corpses, seemingly entering a meditative state. He gradually discovered a way tomunicate with them!


    The dried corpses couldnt actually think. However, a deep resentment remained from the moment of their deaths. The powerful energy that was gathered from all those grievances had piled up in the cave. While in his deep meditation, Chuyi somehow managed to connect to their resentment and talk to them.


    The result had surprised him immensely.


    He didnt expect to find that the evil cult had been involved in a special part of history. Things went beyond his wildest imagination.


    What part of history was it?


    Chuyi didnt answer me. He walked to the corpse lying in the farthest area and looked for something on its body.


    Not long after, he took out a money pouch from the corpse.


    The hemp pouch had an ancient and shabby look. It reeked of a moldy smell.


    There were some dried roots inside.


    What is that? I couldnt help but ask him.


    A grain bag, the man answered. Back then, Boyi and Shuqi used pouches like this one to collect the ferns.


    Boyi and Shuqi? I couldnt hide my surprise as I looked at Chuyi.


    Of course I knew about Boyi and Shuqi. They were people with high moral standards who lived in ancient times. Their virtues were still recounted amongst people in the modern days.


    The first virtue was modesty. Boyi and Shuqi were royal members of the Shang Dynasty, eligible to sit on the throne. They werent tempted by wealth and power, however, so they gave the throne to the prince and left with smiles.


    The second virtue was integrity. They rejected the idea of bing citizens of the new regime after King Wu of Zhou overthrew the Shang Dynasty, since they hated him and his persistent rebellious movement. Not wanting to eat grains harvested under the Zhou government either, they went to Mount Shouyang and collected ferns to eat and eventually died of hunger.


    From the references, I suddenly remembered that Mount Shouyang was actually nearby. If so, could this mountain be that legendary Mount Shouyang?

 Chapter 118: The Grain Pouch

    Chapter 118: The Grain Pouch


    I immediately looked back to see Chuyis reaction and he confirmed my guess.


    This ce was indeed Mount Shouyang, the real one. Boyi and Shuqi had died in that cave because of hunger. They had witnessed the brutal ruling of the Zhou Dynasty before they died; that was the reason for their lingering resentment after their deaths, as they left this world with concerns about the welfare of themon people.


    Evil cultists eventually found their corpses; they dried them and sealed the resentment energy inside the grain pouch, toter harness it against the Zhou Dynasty.


    The grain pouch had slowly turned into an otherworldly item. The two dried corpses remained, strengthening the effect of the pouch and turning the mountain cave into air of hungry ghosts.


    The descendants of that evil cult took care of the ce for several thousand years, luring and entrapping people to make them die of hunger. Their resentment energy would be used to nurture the grain pouch.


    The grain pouch had continuously absorbed human resentment, bing stronger and stronger. It already had umted an astounding level of hate!


    ording to legends, this was the way to nurture otherworldly items.


    Most of the otherworldly items were created by chance. Although some were good and some were bad, otherworldly items wouldnt be harmful as long as people didnt vite any taboos.


    Man-made otherworldly items were different, since they would listen to their owners. No matter how evil the deed was, the item would do everything to aplish it.


    That difference alone broke the rules. All the otherworldly merchants disdained that sort of otherworldly items


    Of course, bing the grain pouchs master would involve some side effects. Even Daoist priests had to give up on a lot of things, let alone someone who had be the master of something that evil!


    All of your family members would starve to death once you became the master of the grain pouch!


    Zhou Tufus closest and only family member was Zhou Laoshi.


    Although Zhou Tufu had a ck heart, he had a lingering affection for his brother and didnt want him to starve to death because of him. So, he used evil magic to find someone to die in his ce.


    And of course, we were the scapegoats.


    Once we died of hunger in the cave, the grain pouch would absorb our resentment energy and spare Zhou Laoshi.


    I understood and was infuriated by the situation once I heard Chuyis exnation. I couldnt believe that Zhou Tufu could just use a random persons life to exchange for his brothers.


    Do you have any ns for retaliation? I asked.


    Chuyi said, Its easy to dispel Zhou Tufus evil magic since ites from the grain pouch. The grain pouch cant do anything to us as long as we dont have any resentments or grudges. It is fine as long as we keep our hearts as clean as water.


    However, after all the things he had done to us, trying not to hate Zhou Tufu was easier said than done.


    I was afraid that only Chuyi would be impervious to those grievances thanks to his incredible skills.


    Chuyiforted me. Well, its a good opportunity to talk about otherworldly merchants and their tricks. In any case, this ce is separate from the world, which makes it a good ce to train. Youll be able to handle a lot of tasks by yourself if you can calm your mind to study.


    Anyway, that was the only thing we could do.


    I suddenly remembered the message Chuyi gave me in the pig pen. Have you ever gotten out of this ce?


    Chuyi nodded, Yeah, I did go out once to deal with Zhou Tufu directly. However, I changed my mind after considering that the grain pouch issue would remain unsolved whether I killed him or not.


    I couldnt help butugh since Chuyi could get out easily if he wanted to. He had willingly gone back to the cave after running away.


    Chuyi taught me a part of the sacred text of Daoism to ease my mind. You can chant the text to calm down in case you encounter danger.


    The text worked well. At least, I didnt lose my mind during the following days.


    It would be strange if ones mind didnt crack after being imprisoned in a ce where sunlight was blocked off.


    Yin Xinyue and Li Meng had done things as Chuyi had asked them to. They went to Zhou Tufus house every night around midnight to throw the ravens blood and then delivered some food to us. As for me and Chuyi, we slept during the day and he would teach me about otherworldly items at night.


    Time flew fast; a week passed by in the blink of an eye. I reaped great benefits during that week. The knowledge I gained during that time was massive whenpared to what I had previously umted.


    Zhou Tufu had not shown up even once during the past week. It seemed as if he had forgotten about us. My heart became restless.


    <em>How long do we have to wait if Zhou</em><em>Tufu</em><em>doesnt appear?</em>


    <em>Will I be a Peking Man?</em>


    Luckily, my life as a prisoner came to an end shortly after


    It was after 1:00 AM on that day and we had yet to see Yin Xinyue or Li Meng delivering food to us. I started to worry.


    They would normally arrive earlier and neverter than 1:00 AM. It was way past our appointment time and we hadnt heard anything from them.


    <em>Did they encounter something dangerous?</em>


    I wanted to go and check on them since the situation could be urgent.


    However, just as I was about to get up, I heard footsteps above our heads. A dark object was thrown into the cave.


    I hurried to turn on my phones shlight.


    My jaw dropped in fright as soon as I did that!


    It was a corpse that only had skin and bones. There wasnt a bit of blood on the body, only ayer of skin lingering on top of the bones. It looked like a freshly-made specimen.


    I checked it carefully and found it was Zhou Laoshi!


    I didnt expect for him to die; he had actually starved to death. He died with his deep-sunken eyes open and his teeth exposed.


    Good, good, good. Zhou Tufus voice came down from the cave entrance.


    I lifted my head right away and saw Zhou Tufu maliciously looking at us.


    I looked at Chuyi right after that; he indifferently threw me a meaningful nce, implying that I should keep calm and simply sit down.


    I sat down next to him. I knew the grain pouchs resentment had just affected that so I quickly began to chant a part of the sacred text of Daoism to clear my mind.


    I had to keep a cool mind to prevent myself from creating any resentment energy that could awaken the grain pouch.


    You are indeed patient! Zhou Tufu said with an irritated tone, Youre so patient that you ended up killing my brother! I want your life aspensation!


    I ignored him and continued to chant the sacred text.


    You little bastard, Zhou Tufu snorted and said, You think youll be safe acting that way? Arent you worried about the little girls life?


    My calmness slowly drifted away after hearing Zhou Tufus threat.


    <em>Yin Xinyue and Li Meng were captured. Are they all right?</em>


    Although the sacred text of Daoism was powerful, it could only work as a support; it couldnt bring aplete calmness from deep down.


    The sacred text stopped working after Zhou Tufu used Yin Xinyue to unsettle me. I jumped in rage and shouted, What did you do to them?


    I heard Yin Xinyue calling for help as soon as I said that. Her voice was so faint and weak that it made my heart ache.


    I hated that I couldnt just fly and escape from that cave to stab Zhou Tufu to death!


    I nced at Chuyi to see his reaction. He was like a statue; eyes closed and unmoving to keep hisposure. He seemed to be dozing off,pletely unaffected by the current situation.


    Zhou Tufu sneered. Yin Xinyues call for help and hisughter were blending in my head; my rage only became stronger. I didnt know why I was so angry at the moment; I felt as if I had turned into a barrel full of gunpowder.


    I clearly knew that the grain pouch was causing this but I couldnt control myself. My self hypnosis wasn''t working, either.

 Chapter 119: Burning the Cave of Hungry Ghosts

    Chapter 119: Burning the Cave of Hungry Ghosts


    Zhou Tufus sneer and Yin Xinyues call for help had be buzzing noises in my head.


    My consciousness turned hazy but my rage was continuously increasing. It was like a volcano that could erupt in the next minute!


    I just wanted to vent my brimming anger against someone But who could it be? Zhou Tufu was up there outside the cave; I couldnt reach him to solve the problem. Zhou Laoshi was dead


    <em>Zhou Laoshi, right, everything happened because of Zhou Laoshi! We wouldnt be in such a bind if it werent for him!</em>


    I didnt care if he was just a corpse; I stormed forward and stomped his dead body. I felt how his skull broke, sending pieces of bone everywhere.


    Chuyi jumped forward to stop me from attacking Zhou Laoshis corpse.


    It would have been better if Chuyi had remained where he was; I was truly incensed the moment he grabbed me. <em>In the end, its all because of him! Its okay if he wants to meddle in someone elses business, but he entangled us in the process!</em>


    <em>He was sitting there chanting his damn sacred text as if nothing happened while both Yin Xinyue and Li Meng were in danger</em>. That only added fuel to the fire, so I directly attacked him.


    Luckily, I wasnt his match. He easily subdued me after two or three strikes.


    My resentment kept surging and the mes of anger burned even higher. All of my resentful energy was currently aimed at Chuyi!


    Zhou Tufu jumped into the cave after seeing that.


    Although he was standing in front of me, the thought of facing and killing him didnt cross my mind. Killing Chuyi was the only goal upying my mind; It wouldnt be toote to subdue Zhou Tufu after that


    It wasnt logical to talk to a man overtaken by rage.


    Looking back, I didnt know why I had behaved so absurdly.


    Zhou Tufu sneered as he looked at me. Do you hate this man to death? I can help you deal with him. If it werent for him, perhaps you and your girlfriend would have been having hotpot in an air-conditioned room right now. Its much better than living in this cave like some animal.


    My exasperation continued to rise, even before Zhou Tufu finished speaking.


    <em>Right, I would have been on a date with my girl if it werent for Chuyi. We could have been watching some movies, or travelling, just the two of us! We wouldnt be here suffering. And Yin Xinyues life wouldnt be in danger!</em>


    Zhou Tufu mumbled something. I immediately felt a strange wind pass through the cave. That wind brought goosebumps to my skin. However, it couldnt rouse my consciousness.


    I saw the dried corpses move after the evil wind had blown over. They stiffly walked and surrounded us like a bunch of robots.


    Chuyi cursed under his breath. He avoided me and started dealing with those dried corpses.


    Of course I didnt want to let him go. I was like a ma drawn to the iron after he tried to avoid me. I kept grabbing, pulling and biting him.


    Those corpses also swarmed over and overwhelmed Chuyi. They had an endless amount of strength, even after being dead for a really long time.


    Gradually, his resistance became weaker and weaker.


    Although Chuyi didnt have the strength to resist, his mouth kept moving as he chanted the sacred text of Daoism to stamp down his rage and keep his mind sane.


    I saw Chuyi being pressed to the ground and everything was about toe to an end. Right then, Zhou Laoshis body moved!


    Although I had smashed his head and the pieces of his skull had been scattered, his corpse stood up and sprang towards Zhou Tufu.


    Zhou Tufu never expected that Zhou Laoshis corpse would attack him. He immediately chanted some spell to counter him. The grain pouch flew back and forth and eventuallynded in Zhou Tufus hand.


    Zhou Laoshis corpse was suddenly ignited before Zhou Tufu could make his next move; the mes engulfed his entire body in the blink of an eye. Zhou Tufu screamed in pain, since he was also being affected.


    I could feel my consciousness return while Zhou Tufu was restrained by the sea of fire. However, I still found it hard to control my anger.


    Chuyi finally had a chance to resist. He drew his sword and used it to fend off the corpses, while at the same time he shouted, asking Yin Xinyue and Li Meng to hoist us up.


    They threw a rope down and Chuyi tied me up. I struggled in anger and kept attacking him, but I was soon pulled up.


    I didnt know how long it took for me to finally exhale and stabilize my emotions. At some point, the hatred I felt toward Chuyi was finally gone.


    The fire burned strongly; red mes were rising like snakes crawling inside the cave.


    Our scalps tingled as we heard Zhou Tufu scream with a voice as loud as thunder. I imagined Zhou Tufus body being burned, his veins bursting, his skin charred


    The column of smoke attracted the farmers living at the foothills of the mountain. They went to see the disturbance.


    No one wanted to report to the police when they found out it was Zhou Tufu who was on fire. They didnt say a word ming us, although they had their suspicions. They left the mountain quietly after the fire ceased.


    My curiosity was on the rise. Why didnt the vigers act to save Zhou Tufu?


    Chuyi answered, Zhou Tufu had often caused rain and storms in the vige. He forced unfair deals and all the vigers hated him. However, Zhou Tufu was fierce and powerful. No one dared to offend him since he had the grain pouch.


    I went to the cave with Chuyi to check and investigate after the mes were extinguished.


    The scene was a real mess. Zhou Tufu and the dried corpses had been incinerated; only a few small pieces of charred bones remained.


    Zhou Tufu had clutched the grain pouch tightly the moment he died. Strangely enough, the grain pouch was still intact even after the horrible fire. There was nothing different except for a burned spot on the hemp knitting.


    I also found two strange dried corpses that werent destroyed by the fire.


    They preserved a straight-backed meditating pose.


    Their skins were unaffected by the extreme heat. The corpses were holding hands as if they would never divert from their path.


    Chuyi sighed as he looked at the two dried corpses. Then, he kneeled and kowtowed deeply.


    If I guessed correctly, those two corpses were Boyi and Shuqis remains.


    They sat upright, preserving their indomitable stance while facing the intense fire, all thanks to their virtues. They were indeed true sages.


    I followed suit and worshipped them.


    Chuyi was worried about others using that cave for their dark schemes in the future. He found several rocks andpletely sealed the cave after we got out.


    He handed me the grain pouch afterwards, saying that I could sell it for a good price.


    I was a little embarrassed. <em>Does he only see me as a shameless businessman who doesnt wake up early unless theres a benefit involved?</em>


    Chuyi seemed to understand my thoughts. He smiled and said, A gentleman loves money and he earns through fair means. As long as youre not like Zhou Tufu who acted maliciously using evil magic, its a sort of practice even if youre in this profession for the money


    Oh right, people have had more than three-hundred-and-sixty upations to choose from since ancient times, right?


    No matter if youre the prime minister of a country or a waste collector, you can earn the respect of the people if you work with your heart and bring no harm to anyone.


    I had heard about so many businessmen who had brewed fake wine or made trashy food, harming a lot of people in the process. Eventually, their assets and families would be obliterated; even their children couldnt escape this fate.


    I had also seen how a man selling vegetables and condiments reached the age of ny-eight, after working with his true heart and giving more than receiving.


    Your time wille! This is a rule of life proven time and again since the days of our forefathers!

 Chapter 120: Ghost Pressing on the Bed

    Chapter 120: Ghost Pressing on the Bed


    Although the grain pouch event hade to an end, Chuyi told me that the truth was, the item had actually affected my mind.


    The resentment brimming in me could burst out at any minute!


    Hence, Chuyi urged, You must stay cautious for the timebeing. If you cant control your anger, a disaster will happen!


    I was scared, so I asked him to stay with me for a prolonged period of time. Yet, he left the next day.


    Prior to his departure, he gave me two pieces of advice.


    Firstly, I had to recite the sacred text of Daoism thrice every day; in the morning, in the afternoon, and in the evening. Secondly, it would be for the best if I didnt ept anymissions in the following month.


    I nodded and closed my shop, with my mind assured.


    Even if Chuyi hadn''t warn me, I wouldnt have taken any cases without thinking it through. Thest case had left a deep psychological trauma. And Death himself almost imed the woman I love


    However, there were also good things that came out of it. There was the grain pouch, at least, and Li Meng became obedient; he even went back to school.


    Although I had to avoid taking assignments rted to otherworldly items, I needed to do something about the grain pouch. I didnt want to keep it, even if its evil aura had beenpletely removed. My heart didn''t feel at ease until I get rid of it.


    The grain pouch was a relic from Boyi and Shuqi, and also a physical embodiment of their qualities and virtues. Government officials could benefit from it; it could help them be freed of malicious press or to ward off bad people from trying to frame them. It was a necessary divine tool to get promoted or to attain wealth.


    Soon after, the grain pouch was sold. After all, it was a treasure that was hard toe by.


    The price offered was enough to satisfy me, it was even more than what I had expected. Then,ter on, I learned that the buyer had offered such arge sum not just to buy the grain pouch. He had another condition He wanted to meet me since he had a business proposal he wanted to discuss with me directly.


    I was just an ordinary citizen. How could I turn down some government official?


    So, I had no choice. I had to go, even if I was unwilling.


    However, I didnt expect that I wasnt going to see the official himself, but a woman who called herself his wife. She told me toplete the job without asking too many questions!


    I could guess at first nce that there''s something amiss with this woman. She clearly wasnt the officials wife but rather a mistress he was keeping on the side.


    The woman was in her prime, appearing to be no older than thirty. Her foxy, charming eyes made peoples hearts stir with restlessness. Also, when she came to see me, she was dressed in her nightgown and wore a pair of slippers, which revealed her dainty little toes with the toenails being painted a bright shade of red. In all honesty, men would find it hard to resist her.


    I was slowly being consumed by impulse. I couldn''t help it as my hand stretched out on its own ord, wanting to touch her feet.


    However, I culled that thought dead inside my head. I knew my mind was being influenced again. I excused myself and rushed to the toilet to chant the sacred text of Daoism several times to calm down.


    When I got out of the toilet, the woman was waiting for me right outside. She gave me a strange gaze that was apained with a tinge of fear. Master, could it be  there''s something wrong with my toilet?


    I was stunned. What?


    However, I immediately understood the reason why she had approached me There had to be something foul in their house and they wanted me to exorcise it.


    I denied her ims and the woman became enraged all of a sudden. Are you drooling over my beauty? You should watch your manners. My husbands a government official!


    I understood right then. She had misunderstood that I had just gone to the toilet to masturbate while thinking of her. My face turned dark on the spot. <em>Auntie, you are thinking too highly of yourself. Yin Xinyue is more beautiful than you!</em>


    My impression of her declined drastically to zero, so I skipped the pleasantries and talked about the matter at hand. Tell me, why did you invite me here?


    The woman replied, Actually, you dont need to do anything. Tonight, you just have to stay and sleep in my room.


    I was startled by this remark. <em>Whats going on? First, she poses as a virgin martyr, and now she wants to get me under the sheets?</em>


    The woman realized the undertone in her words and blushed. Master, please dont think too much about it. I just want you to stay here for one night. Ill be staying in a hotel.


    Dont go beating around the bush. Tell me, whats wrong with the room? I couldnt help but snarl as I questioned her.


    The woman hesitated for a while before telling me anxiously, Theres somebody in the room


    Somebody? Who? I didnt understand. I scanned the room and found nothing out of the ordinary.


    Haiz, I cant exin clearly enough. Stay here for one night. My hubby will pay you handsomely.


    Then the woman picked her pused up and was ready to leave.


    Of course, I didnt want to stay there. Eventually, the woman called her big-official husband. I was rattled by hismanding voice, finding that I couldntmunicate well with officials. I regretted that I didnt ask Li Mazi to apany me.


    The thought of him allowed me to see the light in the otherwise, dark tunnel.


    <em>Right, how could I forget Li Mazi? Counting the days, he should be back from his honeymoon already!</em>


    I immediately gave him a call.


    He readily agreed after hearing that there would be a handsome reward. He even told me to not be anxious and he would have a conversation with that official to see what he wanted.


    Shortly after, Li Mazi called me, absent-minded and flustered. He told me that the big official had evidence of him trading national cultural relics. If we couldn''t resolve the case at hand, Li Mazi would be sent to jail.


    Li Mazi didnt even dare to say anything, so he agreed immediately.


    I was infuriated after hearing that. I couldn''t wish more than to strangle him to death. <em>Now I dont have a way out, do I? I cant just stand by and watch Li Mazi go to jail, can I?</em>


    <em>All right, we must bite the bullet.</em>


    We epted the case primarily due to Li Mazi. Hence, I called him toe over to the vi and pass the night there with me. We would share themission with a 40-60 rate. Of course, I would get sixty percent and he would get forty.


    For the whole time, the woman sat still on the sofa while the phone calls were made, looking quite restless.


    After sunset, her face had fear written all over it. She wanted to leave the vi right away.


    I pulled her back and forced a smile. Big sister, even if you want to go, you should at least tell me what I should be expecting tonight. Otherwise, I cant make any preparations. Itll be very difficult for us.


    The woman was desperate. She lowered her voice as she said, Every night, Im pressed down on the bed by some ghost.


    A ghost pressing you down on your bed? How long have this situation persisted? Have you been under much stress recently? I asked instinctively.


    It has happened continuously for one month already, the woman said, It started as soon as Ive moved to this house. And, when I wake up in the morning, my lower body is in pain. I think when the ghost presses down on me, it does that thing to me


    "What?"


    I couldnt suppress my emotions. It also seemed like I couldnt control my mood, either! I wore a perverted smile, and my devious hands stretched out. I somehow heard a voice in my head ordering me to jump at her.<em></em>


    <em>Its a great chance. Shes flirting with you.</em>


    I lost my self control at that moment. I pushed her down onto the sofa so that I could straddle her. Like this, maam?


    I attempted to take her night gown off as I spoke.


    Ah!


    The woman screamed. What are you doing? Get off me!


    She frantically pushed me away and then curled up her body on the sofa, looking at me in fear.


    I still felt quite aroused and bothered. My hands didnt follow my head, reaching out again. My brain was numb and I wasnt really aware of my actions.


    The woman was petrified. She shrieked and tried to run away. I grabbed her by her slim waist and flung her onto the ground.


    She eventually conceded. Her delicate and vulnerable state apanied with her tear-stricken face made her look irresistible.


    Please Please be gentle, she bit her lower lip and said, I dont want to feel any pain.


    <em>Whats going on? She agreed?</em>


    If she agreed, why would I try to be a gentleman? I pounced on her like a hungry tiger.


    However, just as the situation rose to a critical point, someone knocked on the door. Li Mazis voice wasing from the other side, Little Brother Zhang, open the door! Open the door!

 Chapter 121: Pestering Nightmare

    Chapter 121: Pestering Nightmare


    I came back to my senses instantly. Looking at the woman under my body, I cursed under my breath for losing my self control. I started to chant the sacred text of Daoism. Several minutester, my raging emotions slowly quieted down.


    I looked at the woman with a heavy feeling of guilt. Im so sorry. Ive been pestered by a perverted ghosttely. Ive been losing my self control more often


    Filth! She rolled her eyes at me discontentedly. She went to her room to change into new clothes and then left with her bag.


    I looked at her as she was leaving, not knowing whether tough or to cry. On top of that, I was quite annoyed; that damn grain pouch could amplify my emotions to an almost endless degree.


    Li Mazi entered the room,pletely clueless about what happened. He looked at me and then at the woman leaving; suddenly he patted his head. Oh, damn! Brother Zhang, did Ie at a bad time? Im so sorry... Im leaving now, you should call her back.


    I kicked him without saying a word. What on earth are you talking about? Its not what youre thinking.


    Li Mazi guffawed. What is there to be ashamed about? You didnt open the door for several minutes, only God knows what was going on here. Anyway, you do have the ability to conquer her.


    I didnt have the mood to discuss with Li Mazi. I havent had dinner. Im heading out to get something to eat. And, that damned otherworldly item messed up my mind; thats why I did something I shouldnt have. Dont tell anyone about this, especially Yin Xinyue. If you tell a soul, I will back out of this mess and youll go to jail.


    Li Mazi nodded repeatedly. Dont worry. I wont say a word even if someone beats me up.


    I took Li Mazi out to eat some pasta. When we returned, we brought two bags of refined salt, two sandalwood boxes and a peach wood stick. I nned to use them tonight.


    The thing in that room was pressing the woman on the bed and sexually assaulting her. Just thinking about it gave me a headache.


    However, it wouldnt go as usual if no women were present, right?


    We would die of shame if the ghost did that to us!


    Still, I had some doubts. Having been an otherworldly merchant for years, I have heard of ghosts possessing someone elses body in order to rape women. But I had never heard about any ghosts that could rape people directly


    If it could, it would have to be a rare and powerful evil spirit.


    It seemed that we were going to have a sleepless night.


    Li Mazi and I checked the wiring in the entire vi to make sure that everything was in order. Then, I turned on all the electronic appliances avable. Contrary to humans, ghosts hate devices that could illuminate the area or make noises.


    I walked around the vi, keeping an eye on things that could be problematic. However, after checking several times, I didnt spot anything suspicious. It appeared that the item was deeply hidden.


    There were neighbors living around that vi, and the thought of it gave us courage.


    However, that courage slowly diminished as the neighbor houses lights were switched off. My forehead began to sweat when the street lights dimmed out!


    Human beings were naturally afraid of darkness. It was our instinct. I guess its a fear that no one can grow out of.


    I turned on the TV and found the recently popr movie The Mermaid, in hopes to watch it and ease my nerves. I also hoped that the lights in the room and the sound from the TV could scare that thing.


    <em>If the ghost doesnt show up tonight, I would tell the woman that there was nothing wrong with the vi tomorrow. She can just sell the ce if she doesnt want to live here!</em>


    The Mermaid wasnt a goodedy movie. Although I had tried to keep my eyes wide open, I still felt quite drowsy. I even thought of using two matches to support my eyelids.


    Eventually, I couldnt endure it anymore. I leaned against the bed headboard and slowly drifted into sleep.


    I didnt know how long I had been sleeping. However, I felt that someone was sitting on my thighs at that moment. I opened my sleepy eyes and saw a man sitting on myp, his eyes glued to the TV.


    Goosebumps arose on my skin. I instinctively groped for the peach wood stick. Previously, when I was stuck in Mount Shouyang, Chuyi had told me that using the peach wood stick and refined salt to deal with evil or foul things could be doubly effective. As such, I wanted to give it a go!


    When I tried to find the peach wood stick under the pillow, I was frightened since I noticed that all the items were gone. I was scared and started sweating. My worried eyes raked around the ce to find my items.


    Not looking would have been better. I was taken aback by the first nce.


    I found seven or eight beautiful women sitting in the corner of the room, watching TV. Those women were truly gorgeous; one was more picturesque than the other. They wore some strange golden dresses, which exposed a lot of skin. Their eyes were nk, focused on watching the TV.


    And, at that moment, I saw that my peach wood stick was in the hands of a beauty. She was admiring it.


    Seeing me staring at them, the women stared back at me. One of them beamed at me. However, when she smiled, she also revealed two long fangs.


    I was terrified. I could feel my legs shaking. However, I had to show a calm front. If not, those things could make further moves and I would be unable to stop them


    I wanted to get up but the man sitting on my thighs was as heavy as a mountain. He pressed on me, preventing me from getting up.


    I couldnt do anything other than take a deep breath and curse, Bastard, get off me!


    The man was surprised. He turned his head around to look at me.


    Finally, I saw the mans face. He had dark skin, a shaved head and an oval face. His eyes were sharp but charming.


    I seized the chance and got off the bed. However, a beautiful woman sitting near the bed pulled my hand as soon as I did so, pulling me back to where I was.


    I gathered all of my courage to shout, What the hell are you doing?!


    The gorgeous woman smiled and then pointed at her own belly.


    I tilted my head to look and was scared out of my wits.


    I wasnt sure how, but her tummy had burst open. A round head slowly protruded from the wound. It was a cute babys face, turning to see me, offering a sweet smile.


    No matter how much Id prepared myself, I couldnt help but scream and run for my life!


    However, I helplessly fell as soon as I tried to run. Everything went dark. Then, I heard Li Mazis voice, Little Brother Zhang, are you okay? Hey, wake up!


    I opened my eyes and found everything was back to normal. Nobody was sitting on the sofa, neither on myp. I was lying face down on the carpet, looking quite pathetic.


    I hurried to check the surroundings. The lights were on and the TV was still showing Stephen Chows The Mermaid. The janitors were cleaning outside the building. A silver light shone through the window from the East. The break of dawn was really beautiful.


    I wiped the sweat on my forehead then slumped on the sofa.


    I was still frightened because of that dream. I checked the peach wood stick nearby. No one had touched it, which made me heave a sigh of relief.


    <em>It was just a dream, then.</em>


    However, why would I dream such a strange thing? Although the situation was a little horrifying, it was somewhat amusing as I remembered it. There were some beautiful women and a dark-skinned bald man. Li Mazi wouldugh to no end if I told him about my dream.


    Li Mazi looked at me, while I was still absent minded. Hey brother, are you okay? What happened?


    I shook my head. Nothing, it was just a nightmare.


    <em>Right, Li Mazi stayed with me the whole night</em>.


    <em>Did he notice anything strange?</em>


    I asked him right away.

 Chapter 122: The Former House Owner

    Chapter 122: The Former House Owner


    Li Mazi said with a smile, Nothing strange happened! Ive been watching TV all this time.


    <em>So, it was just a dream.</em>


    It was 5:00 AM in the morning. The sky was glowing bright. Li Mazi and I went out for some soya milk and fried buns for breakfast. When we returned, we noticed that the vis door was open.


    My first thought was that some thief had broken in. I told Li Mazi to watch the door and call the police if something happened. Then, I quietly went inside.


    However, I heard someone shrieking in the bedroom as soon as I stepped into the vi!


    <em>Holy crap! The mistress came back while we were having breakfast?</em>


    I immediately turned the door knob and opened the bedroom. I saw the mistress standing naked by her bed, her hair disheveled and her face showing extreme panic.


    She jumped to hug me while she ranted, Ghosts! There are ghosts!


    Ghosts? What ghosts? I pushed the mistress away, trying not to look at her body. I was really worried that I could lose control again; that could be really troublesome.


    Near the bed, right next to my bed! She grabbed her own hair, screaming non stop.


    Clueless, I went to the bed and checked carefully. There was nothing except for her bra and panties.


    I tried to ignore her tempting looks as I threw the underwear back to her. Put them back on!


    She finally reacted and looked at her body, quickly wearing the underwear. After that, she took a robe from her closet to cover the rest.


    Master, I-I did see the ghosts! There were several of them. They were sitting on my bed, looking at me. I was so scared I almost passed out.


    I looked at the mistress, who was scared out of her wits. I gave her a ss of cold water and asked her to drink it.


    Ten minutester, she finally pulled herself together. Why am I here? I was at the hotel, wasnt I? It was the first question she asked me.


    I spat the water I was drinking. What? You dont remembering back?


    The mistress shook her head repeatedly. No, I was staying at a hotel, but I was already here when I woke up. What happened? You Did you do something to me?


    Then she looked down to see between her legs.


    I couldnt help butugh. Things seem to be moreplicated than we thought! Now, you should tell me about what youve experienced. Every detail counts, dont leave out anything. Perhaps I can help you.


    The mistress hesitated for a while. Then, she started to talk to me softly.


    While sleeping, she had heard someone calling her name. She opened her eyes and saw the ghost sitting on top of her. But it was different this time.


    Usually, there would be just one ghost pressing on her body, but this time there were also several beauties sitting on her bed! Although they were all beautiful, their eyes seemed to be dead and their skin didnt have any color. They looked like corpses wearing makeup in a funeral house. And, one of the beauties smiled at her, shing her two long fangs.


    The mistress was frightened. She wanted to run away, but she couldnt move because the other ghost was pressing down on her.


    Then, the ghost gave her a cold warning: she had to make us leave, or her torment would be even worse.


    After talking, the ghost disappeared and she was able to move again. She screamed and jumped off her bed. We came back right after that, and that was when I saw her


    I began to sweat profusely after listening to the woman, as I also was fearful.


    What I saw in the room was real. It really happened!


    The ghosts described by the mistress were exactly the same as the ones I had dreamed about. It wasnt a coincidence. It was impossible for it to be coincidental!


    We had a big problem there. What were those ghosts?


    Since I had never heard about anything simr, I decided to leave this matter forter. First, we needed to know how the mistress had returned to the vi.


    It was good that there were cameras installed around the premises. I went to see the security guy to ask for surveince recordings.


    We saw the mistress on screen, wearing her nightgown with a grimacing face, walking step by step toward the vi. Her waist was bent in a strange manner, as if she were carrying many things on her back.


    And, the gate opened by itself when she reached the gate of the vige. The mistress was panting as she entered, and we couldnt see the rest. However, I figured it wasnt something nice.


    The mistress saw the recording; she was so scared her legs turned into jelly. In the security room, she had almost kneeled in front of me, begging me to save her, her eyes teary.


    However, I was at a loss. After all, I was just an otherworldly merchant and not a ghost buster.


    To deal with ghosts, we would have to know their origins or identities.


    I asked the mistress. Did you buy something strange recently? Especially antiques.


    The mistress shook her head continuously. No, I havent. My husband also doesnt like to collect them. He dumped all the items the former owner had left behind.


    Then, I remembered that the mistress had just moved in recently. Have you disposed of all the items the former owner possessed? Did you keep anything in your house?


    The mistress thought about the question carefully; but still, she shook her head with determination. I hired a cleaningpany at the time. They cleared up the entire house. After that, I moved my new stuff in.


    The mistress had equipped the ce with brand-new furniture. There were no old items inside.


    The mistress asked me, Could it be some problem with the lights or the wiring? I didnt change them.


    I almost burst outughing after that. How could the wiring be a problem? Unless your lights and wires were inherited from the Ming Dynasty.


    As we couldnt find anything suspicious on the surface, we had to investigate the obscure areas. I ruled out the chance that someone was trying to harm the mistress and her husband, by means of nting some otherworldly item in the vi.


    I asked the mistress. Do you have any enemies? Or Did the housee from a shady source?


    When I asked, the mistress stammered. However, she didnt tell me any details. As soon as I saw her facial expression, I knew something was off. I hurried to press her for answers.


    Under my questioning, the mistress finally told me the truth.


    It turned out that the former owner didnt want to sell them the house. Her husband had used his power to force the sale.


    It was an important clue anyway. Tell me, do you remember what the previous owner did? Did he or she know something about evil magic?


    The mistress shook her head. Apparently, she didnt know anything about the former owner. As we couldnt do anything else, we went to ask the security personnel.


    The security guy seemed to have a bad impression of that mistress. He didnt greet us with a nice attitude. We just watch the gate. We didnt know the previous owner.


    Impossible, the mistress face turned purple in anger. Youve been working here for eight or ten years. How could you not know the residents?


    "You got that wrong, sister. There are so many peopleing and going. How could I go and visit each house to recognize their faces? The security person talked coldly as he continued, If you dont have anything urgent, please leave. This is the security office. Dont cause a ruckus here.


    The mistress was so mad that she was about to explode. I asked Li Mazi to see her out. Then, I handed the security guy a breakfast box, smiling. That womans like a little pepper. Dont mind her bad temper!


    Anyway, her husband is a big official whose voice matters at the provincial level. My advice to you, brother, is to tell me everything you know! Or else, getting you fired is just a trivial matter to me.


    Hearing my tone, the security guy became anxious. Reluctantly, he said, Actually, I hate her because of her arrogance... she just loves to look down on others. When she moved here, she pointed at me and talked haughtily. Thats why I didnt want to tell her


    Puffing his cigarette, the guy told me the truth.


    It turned out that when the previous owner moved in, he had warned the security guy to not say a word about him if someone asked. Otherwise, a little security guy like him would be unable to bear the consequences.


    He didnt tell the mistress because of the former owners warning.


    <em>Indeed, the previous owner was problematic!</em>


    What does he do for a living? Why are you so afraid of him? I asked the security guy.


    The man sighed and said, Hes a big boss working in a transnational trading business. Im just a small worker. I wouldnt dare to go against him. And, I dont know why he wants to keep his identity a secret


    Transnational trading?


    I checked the neighborhood. It wasnt luxurious orvish. It was okay to keep a mistress there, but it was strange for a big boss with a transnational trading business to be living there...

 Chapter 123: Thai Buddhist Amulet

    Chapter 123: Thai Buddhist Amulet


    The security guy told me that the boss apparently worked in the jewelry business. He dealt with imported goods from Thand.


    That vi was the ce the married couple used to live in. They were out traveling most of the time, only spending a month or two in that vi while staying in Thand for the rest of the year.


    It was true that Thai jewelry were famous worldwide. However, I also knew there were businessmen who would often use jewelry imports as a cover for their dirty deals.


    Thand was well known to have several national treasures, including shemales, temples, elephants, and Buddhist amulets. Amongst those, the amulets were queer items!


    ording to legend, these amulets were made of dead peoples former possessions. Sometimes, they included corpse oil. Amulets were believed to keep people safe, while some served as an aid to get rich or promoted.


    However, they could also kill people, destroy their families or bring continuous bad luck.


    They belonged to the superstition category. Technically, China didnt allow for such items to be imported. That was why amulet traders had often pretended to import small items in order to smuggle their amulets along with them. Then, they would distribute or sell the amulets in the maind.


    The mistress provoked some really big trouble if the previous owner was involved in that shady business! The Thais used all sorts of Yin materials taken from the graves to create those amulets, and it would be hard for me to deal with them as I was just an otherworldly merchant.


    Foreign monks could recite or chant Buddhist scriptures to take care of them, but I was a local expert. I wasnt very adept at dealing with foreign sorcery.


    People outside the profession would have a hard time getting the knack of it. Thai monks would definitely know how to deal with amulets, but it wasnt the same for me.


    The mistress was enraged when I told her about my discovery. She said, I must find the previous owner to deal with him! That vicious bastard! I want to see him face to face!


    I smiled. Well, since its about dealing with someone face to face, how about using your husbands power to kill him? Anyway, this is beyond my capacity. You ought to find a Thai master, since this is rted to Thai sorcery. Im sorry but I cant help you.


    However, the mistress became even angrier. She almost hit my nose while pointing at me. If you walk away, I will tell my husband to put you in jail!


    I was also enraged, and I hated that I couldnt just p her silly.


    <em>Why is this woman acting like a mad dog, biting anyone she sees?!</em>


    I dropped all pretense at this point. Go ahead and arrest me! Do you think I cant make ghosts pester you day and night?!


    The mistress sneered. Master Zhang, mind your words. Youve seen my body and youve even touched me. Now you want to run away? How about letting my husband know about this?


    My heart sank to my feet after I heard what she had to say.


    The grain pouch had affected my mind at that time, and she had me by the tail because of it! If she spread this information, let alone my reputation getting destroyed, I might spend the rest of my life in jail if she sued me for rape.


    Helplessly, I could only agree.


    I asked her to contact the former owner. It would be for the best if we could solve the matter peacefully.


    The security guy told me that the previous owner was most likely in Thand at the moment. This season was the busiest of the year for his kind of trade. He wouldnt return to his old house in the meantime.


    I suddenly had an idea. Thai amulets used Yin materials to attract ghosts. Given its characteristics, an amulet was simr to an otherworldly item.


    <em>Could the tricks I use to deal with otherworldly items work with Thai amulets as well?</em>


    That thought had strangely stirred me up. It felt as if I had just grabbed onto a de of grass that could save my life in a shoreless sea. I wanted to implement my idea so I asked Li Mazi to apany me to buy some stuff.


    However, the mistress told me to first go upstairs with her. She needed to prepare some clothes to use at the hotel that night. She was scared and unwilling to go up there alone.


    I hesitated, but in the end I had to give Li Mazi the list of items I wanted to buy. I would stay and keep the mistresspany while she collected her things.


    Her room was a little dark and cool when I entered.


    I didnt know if it was some sort of psychological effect, or whether there was something wrong with the room.


    The mistress was by the closet, choosing her clothes. Since I was free, I sat down nearby and lit up a cigarette.


    However, I felt something strange. It was as if someone was blowing air in my ear, but there was nobody when I turned around to see.


    <em>This atmosphere is not normal!</em>


    I shivered and urged the mistress to hurry up. I didnt have any useful items on hand, in case we bumped into some evil spirit; I wouldn''t have the slightest bit of strength to resist.


    The mistress agreed and hurried up.


    Also, when I felt that strange puff of air, I couldnt help but feel a heat burning inside me. My entire body began to sweat. Images started to appear in my head. All of them showed the mistress in different seductive poses.


    A voice spoke inside my head. <em>What are you thinking about? No need to think. Just go. She asked you to go upstairs with her for a reason, right?</em>


    <em>She actually likes you. She wants a baby but her man cant do that. Youre the best choice.</em>


    That voice was instigating my desire. I got up, unable to control myself; my eyes were on fire as I gazed at her. She was wearing a loose, short shirt, and her bum was up in the air while she was searching for things around the room. Then, she took out a set of lingerie from her closet.


    I couldnt control myself anymore. My consciousness was a blur and I jumped toward the woman uncontrobly. Then, I pressed her soft body on the bed.


    The mistress was scared, shrieking and trying to escape.


    How could I give her a chance? I used more force to make her stay still.


    She stopped wiggling after that. She closed her eyes, talking excitedly. Hurry up Dont let your friend find out.


    I didnt have the time to think and started to undress myself.


    However, I had yet to do anything when someone knocked on the door. Li Mazis voice was hearding from the other side. Open the door, Little Brother Zhang. You asked me to buy a lot of things but you didnt give me money!


    My excitement died out instantly. My head was cleared after hearing Li Mazis voice and recalling his perverted look. I didnt hesitate and released the woman. Im so sorry. Ive been pestered by some evil things these days. Sometimes, I lose control of my mind.


    The woman looked at me, rolling her eyes. She hurried to get up and pick up her clothes while enraged.


    When Li Mazi saw the mistress walking back and forth in a hurry, his jaw dropped open as he gawked. Then, he pped himself. Oh crap, what have I done! Im so sorry. Im so sorry. Im leaving now.


    I didnt know if I should cry orugh. I pulled Li Mazi. Stop indulging in flights of fancy.


    Then, I said to the mistress, You should hurry to pack up and leave. Im going out with my friend to get the stuff.


    The mistress hesitated. I Ill get my things packed shortly.


    I couldnt help but feel embarrassed after I looked at her unsatisfied face. Be quick. I cant stay with you. You have too many evil things in your room, and I cant handle them alone.


    She then snorted and grabbed her bag, ready to leave.


    Li Mazi gasped once she was gone. Why didnt you take the chance? It was a good one!


    I angrily kicked him. Stop talking nonsense! The previous business case affected my mind. I havent recovered yet.


    Looking at his questioning face, I knew it would be useless to exin. I simply dragged him away. We needed to buy some things.

 Chapter 124: Rice Offering to the Dead

    Chapter 124: Rice Offering to the Dead


    For starters, I took Li Mazi to the market to buy some fragrant Thai rice; then we went to the river bank to pick thirty willow twigs. We also bought a set of burial clothes in the shop, together with the boy and girl paper dolls that would be burned in the ceremony. In the end, we went to another store to buy some refined salt and baijiu.


    At first, I wanted to prepare some ox tears. However, it wasnt easy to find them so I had to use baijiu instead.


    The otherworldly item in question was different than the usual. Chuyi wasnt supporting me this time, so I had to take the Sirius Whip with me.


    We returned to the vi after everything was prepared.


    As we entered the ce, the first thing we noticed was the cold temperature. The room was even colder than an ice chamber now.


    I knew the resentment energy was affecting the house. It was really serious this time!


    I turned on the air-conditioner to ease my nerves, and it did help in offsetting the cold temperature. My back still felt the chill, but the fear in my heart was lessened.


    We sat on the sofa. Li Mazi was somewhat frightened; he checked the dim-lit room and said, Do you know where the otherworldly item is hidden? We should prepare in advance.


    I forced a smile. Its hidden somewhere, but I havent been able to figure it out yet


    Li Mazi sighed. I was nning to hold my wedding ceremony in a couple of days. But all the excitement went away after this happened.


    I couldnt do anything else butfort him. Its gonna be even better. Ill be giving you more gift money by the time you hold the wedding!


    Nothing strange happened while we spent time watching movies in the evening. I started to feel sleepy after midnight; I kept on yawning so I got up and walked around the room. However, I didnt dare to sleep, as I was afraid I would never be able to wake up once I closed my eyes.


    While trying to stay awake, I came to think that the ghosts I had encountered the previous night werent real. They had to be illusions created by the amulet.


    Hallucination was one of the most well-known effects of such amulets.


    Evil spirits were confined in the amulet; although they were unable to go beyond a three meter radius, they would create hallucinations as long as the amulet wasnt broken.


    I felt a little tired and my eyelids were heavy after circling the room twice. I checked the clock; it was almost time. I found a remote corner and brought out the burial clothes to start pulling out their threads.


    While doing so, Li Mazi yawned. Why do we have to do that? Its a good set of burial clothes. What a waste!


    Iughed and scoffed, You are so stingy, you know? Its just a set of burial clothes. If you like them, Ill buy eight sets for you tomorrow.


    After removing all the threads in the burial clothes, I linked them together to form five-meter lines.


    Well, making them that long wasnt due to a special indication. It was because the main bedroom was around five meters wide.


    Shortly after, we weaved the longer threads to make a thick mesh!


    Actually, I was trying to locate the amulet using the items I had prepared. Things would be much easier if we could locate it and survive the night. Then, we would ship the amulet back to Thand, or worship it in a big temple somewhere in China. That could solve things smoothly.


    I poured the baijiu into a pot and boiled it, adding refined salt. Once I was done stirring the solution, I used it to wash my face and kept a mouthful without swallowing.


    However, the action enraged Li Mazi. Why didnt you wait to wash your faceter if you knew you had to keep it in your mouth? Now the solution is dirty. How could I keep that in my mouth?


    I spat and said, Oh well, you dont need to do it.


    Li Mazi exhaled in relief.


    I added, If youre not afraid of death.


    Li Mazi was scared; he almost glued his face to the pot


    We checked the time after we prepared everything; it was barely 1:00 AM in the morning.


    <em>Still early. My sleepiness is gone at least.</em> I stretched my sore back and began to cook the fragrant Thai rice.


    This part was guesswork. The spirits wouldnt easilye out to mess with us since we were prepared. I had to find a way to lure them out!


    In China, a bowl of rice offering was needed if you wanted to entice ghosts.


    However, since we were talking about Thai ghosts who had flown all the way to China, they would have a sweet tooth for Thai rice, wouldnt they? Perhaps they wouldnt like offerings with Chinese rice. I should offer them a taste of their country.


    The steaming hot Thai rice was ready shortly after.


    Li Mazi seemed to disdain my approach. He said with a joking tone, Why didnt you prepare a bottle of Laoganma? [1] That way the Thai ghosts can season their rice with chili sauce.


    I shot him a nce. You can go buy it if you like. Perhaps those beautiful female ghosts would take a liking to you.


    I ced the bowl of steamed Thai rice on the most eye-catching location in the room. Then I sat together with Li Mazi on the sofa and continued to watch TV.


    I had especially relocated the bathrooms full-length mirror to be right across the sofa. It would help me observe the entire ce.


    I didnt even blink while I gazed at the mirror; I was afraid I could miss something.


    Around twenty minutester, a strange phenomenon began to happen in the living room. At first it was a sizzling noiseing from a remote corner behind the sofa; it sounded like a snake sticking its tongue out to sense the surroundings. Oddly enough, I didnt see anything in the mirror.


    However, I spotted them real fast!


    The made from the burial clothes threads began to dip and move. I could guess something or someone was pressing down on it.


    Moreover, I could tell it was clearly not just one ghost by looking at the area that moved.


    When discussing whether ghosts had weight or not, I would be in the group of people who said yes.


    I had read about an experiment described in a scientific magazine. They had weighed a person at the very moment of his death and detected a slight change in his weight, concluding that a human soul weighed around 0.05 grams.


    Although it was really light, it was enough to press the burial threads down


    I saw the threads dipping down, then slowly moving toward us. I became restless, so I gently poked at Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi looked at me, oblivious to the situation. He had the salt solution in his mouth, so he couldnt talk, but I understood he wanted to say What?


    I pointed my finger at the mirror and he finally reacted; his body tensed up once he saw the movement. He didnt dare to blink as he gazed at the mirror.


    Eventually, those things were hovering above our heads.


    I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, pretending I was recovering from the shock. Actually, my eyes had never left the mirror.


    When those things were just a little distance away from us, I simply jumped without giving any warning signs, spraying the salty solution in my mouth at them. Li Mazi did the same.


    After the spraying, several mist-like shadows appeared in front of us!


    Although their appearance was really vague, I knew they were the foul spirits from the amulet.


    The shadows realized they had been spotted, so they turned around to flee. However, we didnt give them a chance to run. We whipped them with the willow twigs we had prepared!


    The shadows were backed into a corner. However, they struggled angrily, trying to find a way to escape. I then purposely left an opening so they could run.


    I released the after they got out, which made the shadows even more visible to us.


    We continued whipping them, not giving them the slightest chance to counterattack!


    It was good that we had caught them unprepared. Our attack left them petrified.


    I heaved a sigh of relief and sprinkled all the remaining salty solution to the corner. I surrounded the corner with the willow twigs. <em>Would they be confined like this?</em>


    I looked at Li Mazi. He was holding my small leather whip, fearfully looking at that corner.


    I swiftly took back the whip. The Sirius Whip shouldnt be used carelessly. If it couldnt subdue the ghosts, it wouldpletely enrage them. We would not have a nice ending if that happened.


    Thankfully, they were behaving. They stood in the corner and didnt look like they were about to fight their way out. I sighed in relief.


    I thought that everything would end there; we would be able to open the wall to see what was hiding inside in the morning. It would be much easier to deal with the otherworldly item once we found it.


    However, I had underestimated the amulets power. After finally calming down, I heard a burst of hair-risingughtering from the wall just as I was about to call the mistress to return!


    1. A brand of Chinese chili sauce.

 Chapter 125: Flying Head

    Chapter 125: Flying Head


    I was all tensed up as I gazed at the wall. My fingers gripped the Sirius Whip tighter.


    The willow twigs didnt seem to be working. I had no choice but to use the whip!


    I vaguely heard someone chanting; the sound was blending with the cacklinging from the wall. The faint chanting didnt seem toe from the wall, but from somewhere outside.


    I shot Li Mazi a nce, signaling him to go to the balcony to check.


    He was all jumpy as he made his way there to see.


    However, it would have been better if he hadnt walked over to check. Li Mazi noticed something horrible outside. His jaw dropped, and he was unable to make a sound. It seemed to be something beyond his imagination.


    A secondter, he stepped on the balcony with the intention to jump!


    I sweated in fear. Although he wouldnt die after jumping down from the second floor, he would possibly hurt himself and end up with a disability, unable to take care of himself for the rest of his life.


    My eyes and body were agile enough. I didnt hesitate and stormed forward to pull Li Mazi back. You crazy bastard, what are you doing?! Do you want to die?


    At this moment, Li Mazi finally pulled himself together. He turned to look at me with a horror-stricken face. Little Brother Zhang... a h-head


    What head? I asked, looking at him in bewilderment. Then, my eyes followed his finger, which was pointing at something.


    Goosebumps sprouted all over my body from just a quick look!


    I would have never imagined to see a floating human head, just outside the vi with eyes locked onto us!


    That head was still alive; eyes wide open, almost bulging, while it mumbled something unceasingly. The chanting we had heard was actuallying from that man''s head. He had many dark tattoos on his face, their meaning unknown to me. He had curly hair outlining his face and malicious eyes. Looking at him gave me the shivers.


    However, I couldnt help but have a strange thought. I wanted to jump out and fight against that head.


    I climbed on the balcony, knowing I could die if I jumped, but I couldnt control myself.


    Li Mazi had already pulled himself together. He rushed and hugged me from behind. Little Brother Zhang, wake up!


    The Whip! Wheres the Sirius Whip? I was sweating in fright.


    Isnt it in your hand? asked Li Mazi.


    I reacted and attacked the floating head with the whip.


    The head dodged swiftly and flew away in the blink of an eye.


    Still flustered, I hurried and closed all the windows. I knew what that thing was: a Flying Head, one of the top ten sorceries in Thai folklore!


    In legends, the Thai sorcerers favorite magic was an evil technique called mind control, which was extremely malicious. As long as the sorcerer had a hair or blood sample, they could cast the spell and make long worms or even steel nails grow in the victims belly. In short, the recipients of the spell would rather die than to suffer like that.


    Rumor said that sorcerers who sessfully practiced the technique could even detach the head from the body and make it fly around and hunt for blood. The spell would bepleted after feasting on blood for forty-nine days. From that day onward, the sorcerer would be able to separate the head from the body and fly it around as he pleased.


    In Thand, a lot of people liked to grow Japanese banana trees in their yards and install iron mesh fences to ward off Flying Heads.


    I didnt expect that the previous owner would go to such lengths to deal with the mistress. They had even invited a Thai sorcerer!


    It wasnt some ordinary sorcerer if he could use the Flying Head witchcraft.


    I made up my mind the moment I saw the Flying Head. No matter what, I would not work on this case anymore.


    The Flying Head only showed up to give us a warning, so that we wouldnt interfere in someone elses business. If he had wanted to attack us, Li Mazi and I would have been unable to resist; it could kill us in the blink of an eye. So, I turned around and said to Li Mazi, Lets hurry up and leave. Its not something we can handle.


    However, Li Mazi wasnt answering. His horror-stricken eyes were focused on the sofa.


    I followed his eyes and shivered in fright the moment I caught a glimpse.


    A dark-skinned man was sitting neatly on the sofa, together with several beautiful women in golden dresses. They were sitting with their backs to us as they watched TV.


    From their silhouettes, I knew they were the ghosts I had seen in my dream the other night!


    <em>Holy crap, they escaped</em>


    I guessed they didnt want to harm us since they werent moving; they just wanted to scare us away. The Flying Head had only made an appearance to bolster their courage.


    I pulled Li Mazis shirt and tiptoed out of the vi.


    I had an odd feeling when I reached the door. I actually heard a lot of footsteps behind me. Slowly, I turned my head to one side, ncing through the corner of my eye.


    Just one look gave me goosebumps. The ghosts who were sitting on the sofa were standing right behind me, wearing cold grins while they moved stiffly on the spot.


    I was sure they would leave with us if we walked out of the vi.


    <em>Damn, what to do? What to do now?</em> My heart was restless, as if raging mes were burning and torturing me from the inside.


    The dark-skinned man led that group. He dropped his jaw to sh a strange smile, showing how blood was pooling inside his throat.


    The women behind him also beamed at me, showing their sharp fangs.


    I gritted my teeth as I faced those foreign friends. I decided not to leave the ce, because they would pester me for a lifetime once I walked out. I didnt want those ghosts to live with me for the rest of my days!


    I tried to suppress my fear, walking back to the sofa and sitting down. Li Mazi gawked in shock and fright, unable to make a sound while fixing his eyes on me.


    I couldnt do anything other than pat the space on the sofa next to me, asking Li Mazi to sit down.


    Li Mazi was clueless about the situation so he didnt want to act rashly. He sat down since he didnt know what else to do.


    I pretended to be really into what was on TV. The ghosts were also watching the show with me while standing behind the couch. Sometimes, they would bend and beam at me.


    <em>Damn, why are these ghosts so annoying? I would have already taken action if I wasnt afraid of the Flying Head.</em>


    However, it was true that they just wanted to scare me, since they didnt do anything to me. They disappeared at dawn.


    Seeing that nothing dangerous happened, I pulled Li Mazi so we could leave.


    However, Li Mazi was scared. He said with a shaky voice, Little Brother Zhang I-I got a cramp. Lend me a hand a-and, c-carry me.


    I looked at his lower body; it reeked of urine. Although I was disgusted by that, I still carried him on my back.


    The mistress called me while we were heading back home. How is it going?


    I immediately unleashed an angry tirade on her. You were hiding something from me, right? The other owner even sent a Flying Head. How could it be just because of a small vi? I was almost killed in your house yesterday. I cant continue like this. You should invite another master!


    The mistress wanted to use harassing tactics to control me, so I directly shouted at the phone, Call the police to arrest me if you want!


    The woman was scared and her attitude became more respectful towards me. Please, you have to help me.


    I sighed. I cant. There is even a Thai Flying Head in the mix now. How could I, a small otherworldly merchant, deal with it? You guys better go to Thand and ask a monk to help you! One more thing: I found the ce where the amulet is hidden. Get rid of it. Perhaps youll have a chance to survive.


    The mistress asked me to wait for her at the vi. Im at my shop. If you want to see me,e to my antique shop!


    This time, the woman didnt show up alone. She brought over a refined middle-aged man. He was slender, and his eyes exuded arrogance.


    He told me he was Xia Jie, a provincial leader. However, he didnt say what his position was. He told me to find him if I needed any help in the future.


    I was surprised. He was so confident; surely he wasnt ordinary.


    Anyway, I wasnt afraid of him. I frankly said, Are you guys still hiding things from me? The previous owner has indeed invested efforts in this case. Theres a blood feud between you, right?


    Xia Jie hesitated for a while. He said with an awkward tone, Little brother, can we talk in private?


    I nced at Li Mazi. Dont worry. Were a team.


    Xia Jie nodded, not pressing further. He simply told us what had happened.


    Back in the sixties and seventies, that vis neighborhood had rows of apartments where elderly people used to live.


    However, real estate developers from Singapore went there and invested more than ten million renminbi, vowing to make the ce a charming vi neighborhood. And of course, they needed to demolish the old apartments.


    The elderly residents didnt want to see their homes torn down. They didnt want to relocate, either. The realtors had tried to persuade them but to no avail. Eventually, they resorted to the police and the local gangsters. An old man was identally killed when the local gangsters were forcing them to leave.


    That old man happened to be the father of the vis former owner.


    Xia Jie was an official at that time. Since he was afraid that the incident would affect his position, he agreed to give the victims family a vi to reside in, eventually suppressing the situation.


    Later on, Xia Jie found himself a mistress and he wanted to find a ce for her. All of a sudden, he remembered that vi.


    As things were, since the resident didnt have any ownership papers for the estate, Xia Jies greed was spurred. He expelled the former owner.


    Having added insult to injury, the former owner hated him to the bone and wanted to take revenge at any cost.


    Listening to Xia Jies story, I inwardly thundered. <em>Damn, if I had known earlier, even if I was beaten to death, I wouldnt have taken this case! This man is a major bully!</em>


    Let alone me, Li Mazi, who considered money his life, was incensed. He said in a cold tone, We cant help you with this. You should find a senior Thai monk.


    Xia Jie was upset for a long time. Eventually, he puffed his cigarette. I regret it now. I dont want that vi anymore. If I return it now, will it be okay?


    If the man doesnt keep track of you, or uses the mind control witchcraft on you, it wont be a problem.


    Xia Jie heaved a sigh of relief. Then, he took out a stack of money and handed it to me. All right! Weve troubled you. Please ept this as yourbor fees. I hope you bury this incident in the back of your minds.


    The stack of money wasnt much, just around one hundred thousand renminbi.


    No matter what, that sum of money would have been wasted in their hands. I didnt pretend to be polite and took it all. Seeing that, the mistress cursed me through gritted teeth.


    I never saw Xia Jie again after that. No one else went to talk to me about that matter, either. I guessed the problem was over.


    However, it wasnt the end yet.


    About a monthter, Li Mazi went to see me in a hurry. He had something in his chest.


    I was puzzled by this so I asked, Li Mazi, what have you done? Did you just rob a bank? Is that money in your chest?


    Li Mazi sniggered. Little Brother Zhang, guess what? You cant avoid karma if ites to your door.


    Then, Li Mazi patted the thing he had kept in his chest andid it on the table. I checked and saw a newspaper.


    It was just a newspaper and he made it seem as if it were something very mysterious. I admired the guy!


    However, I couldnt help but p my hands after I read the articles title, eximing that karma had indeed arrived!


    The news said that Xia Jie, a leader of some government department, hadmitted suicide by jumping off a house. Hed killed himself in that haunted vi.


    The reason why hemitted suicide was unclear. However, they found his mistress in the same vi.


    She was about to cut her wrists with a piece of ss at the time she was found. They took her to the hospital where she was saved. However, she lost her mind after that. She ranted for days on end, saying that some ghosts were harming her. She even admitted that she had pushed Xia Jie down.


    She wasnt prosecuted because she was evidently crazy.


    The police found a confession letter in Xia Jies pocket, where he listed the money he had taken as bribes, even the many people he had harmed by using his power. As a result, his death wasnt peaceful as it led to various events, and many of his corrupted colleagues were arrested.


    I couldnt help butugh when I finished reading.


    It seemed like we did the right thing, when we decided not to continue with the case. Otherwise, such a filthy animal would probably still be alive, living as an ouw and embezzling hard-earned money from ordinary people.


    The vi remained uninhabited for a long time after the event. Some said that it was a haunted house; the TV would y at midnight, and they would even hear men and womenughing.


    They couldnt sell the vi, and all the neighbors living around it wanted to move away


    An amulet was able to uncover many corrupted officials. I hoped that more otherworldly items like that were found in Chinater.


    Our ancestors said, If an official doesnt take care of the people, it would be best if he went home and sold sweet potatoes instead.


    The more power you have, the more responsibilities you carry. Its a double-edged sword. If a person used it well, people would love him and his name would be spread through generations.


    If he didnt wield it well, not only would he kill himself but his bad reputation would remain forever.


    No one can escape this ancient, unchanging rule. Even if youre very powerful, karma woulde knocking one day!

 Chapter 126: Who Wants to Harm Me?

    Chapter 126: Who Wants to Harm Me?


    I thought that the amulet event would end there. However, I would have never expected that the nightmare that would pester me for half of my life had just begun.


    On the day Xia Jie killed himself, Li Mazi and I were drinking some liquor,ining about some matters before going to bed.


    Thirst woke me up at midnight, so I got up to find some water. All of a sudden, I found myself looking in the mirror; I had a scary look, with a pale face and bloodshot eyes.


    I was taken aback, thinking that I was intoxicated. I hurried to rub my head and face, checking myself in detail. After I confirmed that I was all right, I went back to bed.


    I was terribly hung over when I woke up the next day. I rushed to the bathroom to wash my face.


    The longer I washed my face, the stranger I felt. However, I couldnt tell what I was missing. Thinking about other things, I put my clothes on and went out to get some breakfast.


    My head buzzed the moment I opened the door. I knew what was wrong!


    Last night, I checked myself in the mirror by the bedroom. My face was pale and my eyes red. However, I didn''t have a mirror in my bedroom!


    <em>Crap, I didnt see myself in the mirror yesterday. It was a ghost that looked exactly like me!</em>


    I couldnt help but shiver the moment I figured it out. The more I thought about it, the more I was convinced it was real. I couldnt take it anymore; I didnt want to enter my bedroom again. I hugged my head, wondering, <em>How did I run into this evil?</em>


    The clueless me didnt even know where to start investigating.


    Seemingly at a dead end, I directly called Li Mazi, asking him to go to my antique shop. I would feel braver and my head could be clearer if I hadpany. I hoped I could find the problem eventually!


    However, it wasnt Li Mazi who arrived first but my two old friends: Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei from Dabei Temple.


    I was baffled when I opened the door and saw the handsome man wearing his sword and a kind-looking monk. I didnt know why they came to my shop at the same time, either.


    Looking at my perplexed face, Zen Master Baimei smiled. Merciful Buddha. Benefactor, you dont want to invite us into your house to have some tea?


    I finally reacted, eagerly inviting them in. I called the restaurant near my shop and booked a private room.


    I had to treat them well since they were masters among masters.


    Zen Master Baimei smiled while looking around in my shop. Chuyi spoke frankly, Did you make contact with a Thai sorcerertely?


    I was amazed as I looked back at him. How did you know?


    He asked me to hold up a mirror and check my reflection.


    I was startled when I did so!


    My eyes were still red; there were some white beads inside; I didnt know what they were.


    However, how did Chuyi know I had contacted a Thai sorcerer just by looking at my eyes?


    Chuyi sighed and said, Its a sign of the mind control witchcraft.


    I almost dropped the mirror to the ground. Whats going on? How on earth did I get mind controlled? What should I do?


    Chuyi calmed me down. Dont be nervous. Listen to me.


    It turned out there was a group of Thai sorcerers visiting China to collect otherworldly items. They had created big waves in the otherworldly item circle in our country.


    Those otherworldly items were all top Chinese treasures. To the Chinese otherworldly item circle, it would be a great loss if they were taken. And, their goal was clear. They wanted to use those items to improve their amulets; they would be ten or even a hundred times stronger than usual.


    If those murderous weapons were to fall in the hands of bad people, they could bring about horrible cmities!


    I hadnt thought that it would be so serious. I immediately told them that I had seen another me the night before.


    Chuyi pondered for a while and then said, There should be an otherworldly item at your ce. Think about it. Any new arrivals at your shop?


    I was bewildered. Even though I was an otherworldly merchant, I would have never imagined that Id be pestered by an otherworldly item one day.


    I started to contemte. There wasnt anything strange at my shoptely. I made up my mind and straight off asked Chuyi and the Zen Master to check my room.


    They didnt find anything after a first look.


    However, before they reached the door, Zen Master Baimei stopped, gently patting my shoulder.


    I immediately turned around and saw him pointing at my bed.


    I was confused, so I looked back at him. I didnt know what he meant.


    Chuyi lowered his voice. Theres something wrong with your bed.


    <em>My bed? What could it be?</em> Those days, when I went to bed, I didnt find anything wrong.


    However, I still checked the bed meticulously. And then I saw a strange thing!


    There was a small bronze tripod.


    It looked ancient, around the size of an adults head, sitting quietly underneath my bed. There was a thinyer of dust on top of it; it may have been there for quite a long time.


    However, the tripods surface appeared to be a little darker.


    I turned to look at the Zen Master with a questioning look. The monk chanted Merciful Buddha, but he didnt exin anything. Chuyi told me, Its possible that this brass tripod has been soaked in corpse oil. Thats why it turned ck.


    My scalp felt numb. An ancient object that had been soaked in corpse oil, it would be strange if it didnt transform into an otherworldly item.


    <em>Who wants to harm me?</em>


    Chuyi waited until I could get a hold of myself. Has anyone suspicious entered your bedroomtely?


    <em>A suspicious person?</em> No one like that had entered my room. Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue were the only ones who had been here.


    <em>But those two wouldnt harm me, would they?</em>


    Chuyi preferred to change the topic. He asked me to use a magnifying ss to check every detail on the small tripod.


    I observed meticulously and indeed, I found something peculiar at the bottom of the object.


    There were many strange patterns engraved at the bottom, together with Chinese hieroglyphs.


    Chuyi exined, Those strange patterns could be part of an enhancing spell in Thai. Looks like this otherworldly item was touched by a Thai sorcerer. Chinese otherworldly items are really fierce. And now, since the object was enhanced with some spells by a Thai sorcerer, the situation is going to be much moreplicated


    I took a deep breath, feeling worried.


    It was fortunate that they had paid me a visit. Otherwise, only God knew how the item would torture me.


    What should I do now? I asked Chuyi.


    He didnt reply right away. I assumed it was the first time he had encountered such an otherworldly item. I then turned to look at Zen Master Baimei.


    He ced his palms together in front of his chest. Benefactor, dont panic. Tonight, we will stay in your shop and see who wants to harm you!


    The Zen Masters words were like a sedative to me, making me feel assured in the blink of an eye.


    However, I was still puzzled. Different people came to my shop every day.


    How could I tell who had plotted against me?

 Chapter 127: Grannie Linglong

    Chapter 127: Grannie Linglong


    Although this otherworldly item had been improved with some evil spell, to maintain its effect, the caster had to chant the spell once a day. So, today, this person woulde again to chant the spell!


    We could capture that person when the time came


    I asked Chuyi, What does this little bronze tripod do? How could it affect me? Is there a story behind the item?


    Chuyi was not familiar with the item, and its effect on me was enough to trouble him; he could sense this just by giving a quick nce at the small brass tripod.


    After we came up with a n, I ced the small bronze tripod back to its original spot, trying to make it look as if nothing had happened.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei asked me to help them find a ce to hide. They also told me to not tell anybody that they had visited. Otherwise, I would alert the enemy.


    I nodded and led them to the guest rooms to rest. It was highly unlikely that enemies woulde for me in broad daylight.


    Li Mazi arrived not long after. He yawned, clutching a bottle of wine. He sat on the table, with a leg crossed over his knee. Why do you need to see me this early in the morning?


    I didnt tell Li Mazi about the paranormal activity Id experienced the day before. Although I trusted him, his mouth wasnt tight. There would be big trouble if he blurted it out.


    I acted as if nothing had happened. I dont have change and Im toozy to get some. Can you buy me something to eat?


    Li Mazi didnt care about the money and threw several hundred renminbi at me. I pay, you go! Buy some food that goes well with wine! Ive been holding back for days.


    I teased him. What? You havent gotten married and your wife is already controlling you? You dont dare to drink in your house?


    Li Mazi sighed, Haiz! I had a fight with Chu Chu. I dont dare to drink liquor under her watch.


    Chu Chu was the young widow Li Mazi had brought back.


    All right, keep an eye on my shop. Im going to buy some spicy duck necks. You can enjoy drinking as much as you want today, I told him.


    Then I left in a hurry. Fearing that Li Mazi would stumble upon Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi, I bought some cooked food nearby and returned quickly.


    However, I didnt expect that Li Mazi would vomit so much after just three rounds of wine. I shooed him away, demanding him to take his vomiting home.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei hadnt had lunch yet and I was keeping them in the guest rooms while we were drinking outside. It was really embarrassing.


    After Li Mazi left, Zen Master Baimei walked out of the guest room. He looked at Li Mazis receding figure for a while. He asked, Benefactor, is that man very close to you?


    I nodded repeatedly. Yeah, my close friend. What about him?


    Zen Master Baimei went to see Li Mazis leftover vomit. He observed it for a while and nodded pensively.


    I found it strange. Zen Master, have you found something?


    Zen Master Baimei didnt want to discuss it. He waved his hand. Well see tonight! I cant verify my assumption right now.


    My heart thumped faster. What if Li Mazi was gued by the same problem?


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei were already troubled because of me. If Li Mazi was also added to the mix, would they be able to deal with it?


    I knew they wouldnt answer me, even if I asked. One acted mysterious and the other showed a cold face. This duet was really odd


    The sun set in the West, sending a golden afterglow to my shop. Zen Master Baimei brewed a teapot; he leaned against a chair, then he closed his eyes as though he was trying to find serenity. On the other hand, Chuyi simply held his sword with an absent-minded look while I cleaned my shop.


    This scene looked amusing; I felt as if I were watching a Hollywood movie. Two powerful, intimidating bosses helping a poor little boy to im his throne


    I had already bought some vegetarian food so I ate with them. Then, I went to bed as they had requested. Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei followed me and hid in the closet.


    I couldnt sleep, knowing that two people were watching me. I justy on my bed and yed with my phone. However, someone knocked on my door not long after.


    <em>Whos the bastard knocking at my door thiste?</em>


    I couldnt do anything but answer the door. I was enraged after seeing Li Mazi standing at my door, wearing his honest and smiling face. Its almost midnight. Why are you here?


    Li Mazi snorted. Your shop opens every night, doesnt it? Why did you close tonight?


    Are you blind? Didnt you see the sign that says closed for one night?


    Li Mazi suddenly saw the light. Heughed in embarrassment. Well, well, well, are you hiding some beauty in your house? I need to check it out. I became restless as soon as I heard his reply. <em>Is there anything wrong with Li Mazi? Why didnt hee earlier? Why does he have to be here right now?</em>


    Since he was implying I was hiding some beauty, he had to know that Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei were there.


    However, I was still calm. Im tired, so I want to sleep early. Can you not bother me?


    Li Mazi simply charged into my shop without a word. Drink with me. Its really hard to get out these days, you know.


    I was helpless. Li Mazi was like a mangy dog that I just couldnt shoo away; I had to sit down and drink with him.


    However, before I could even take a sip, I heard the Merciful Buddha chant from the bedroom.


    <em>Damn, what the heck is Zen Master Baimei doing? Hes giving himself away!</em>


    Li Mazi was startled. Somebodys in your room!


    Before he finished talking, I saw a silhouette dashing into my room. However, Chuyi was as fast as lightning and managed to intercept that silhouette.


    Li Mazi rolled his eyes and yelled at me. Since when is Chuyi staying here? You little bastard, you deceived me. Stop. Stop, dont fight!


    I was enraged. <em>This bastard Li Mazi was plotting something. Im sure he brought that person here! Is he the one scheming against me?!</em>


    I couldnt control my rage, so I lunged forward and pinned him to the ground. Bastard, I thought you were my brother, but youre trying to harm me!


    Hey, its a misunderstanding. Chu Chu said that you provoked some strange thing. Im here to save you Li Mazi groaned.


    Thats Chu Chu? I asked.


    "What would I gain by deceiving you?


    I loosened my grip on Li Mazi, then I rushed to find Chuyi. He had already subdued the silhouette and taken off her veil. Indeed, it was the young widow, Chu Chu.


    Chu Chu was looking at Chuyi with unveiled surprise. It seemed she hadnt thought that the man could be this agile.


    Zen Master Baimei approached them, while he spoke with a merciful tone. Female Benefactor, if you dont mind my asking, are you rted to Grannie Linglong?


    How do you know my mothers name? Chu Chu was rmed.


    Zen Master Baimei was astonished. What? Grannie Linglong has children? She ended up with that dumb farmer?


    What the heck you are talking about? Chu Chu wiggled out of Chuyis restraint. My father wasnt a dumb farmer! Who are you? Howe you know my mothers name?


    Before he became a monk, he used to chase after Grannie Linglong, Chuyi answered with a cold tone.


    His words were like a bomb exploding in the room, leaving everyone speechless.


    Chu Chu was quiet, gawking at Zen Master Baimei in shock.


    The Zen Master blushed for a moment. His hand holding the m beads shivered as he pointed at Chuyi. He was unhappy since he had revealed a part of his past.


    I didnt think that Zen Master Baimei, a true master who looked like a senior monk, would have such passionate past.


    All masters seemed to be like this, as if they didnt care about trivial matters. These details only made Zen Master Baimei more interesting


    I knew it was a misunderstanding, I asked them to sit and talk.


    <em></em>It turned out that Chu Chu hade to the antique shop just to help me.


    Chu Chu knew ghost doctor techniques, so I didnt doubt her. And, Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi had also proven that Chu Chu didnt chant any Thai spells in my bedroom. She just wanted to find the cause but not to harm me.


    I was puzzled. How did Chu Chu know that I had been affected by something?


    Under my continuous urge, Li Mazi eventually told me the truth.

 Chapter 128: The Five-Month-Pregnant Corpse

    Chapter 128: The Five-Month-Pregnant Corpse


    It turned out that it wasnt only me who had bumped into something bad; Li Mazi had also been affected.


    Of course, Li Mazi was unaware of it until Chu Chu told him.


    Chu Chu noticed that Li Mazi had snuck out at night for several days in a row, at exactly 11:00 PM.


    Chu Chu had practiced ghost doctor techniques so she knew something was wrong with Li Mazi at first nce. She immediately followed him and saw Li Mazi enter my antique shop every night.


    Chu Chu broke into my antique shop and noticed that I was also in a daze. At that time, I didnt even notice Li Mazi when he visited my shop. He went straight to my room, chanted some bizarre spell and left in a hurry.


    Chu Chu quickly checked Li Mazi when he was asleep. She found strange, tiny beads in his eyes. She immediately knew that he had been affected by the mind control witchcraft!


    She also told me that there were many Thai mind control witchcrafts, which used ghost doctor techniques as reference. For example, they could use toxic worms to cast a spell. That was how she could confirm that Li Mazi had been cursed.


    And, if it were such a witchcraft, there should be some amulet in the house. Eventually, she found a small bronze tripod, which had many strange symbols and letters engraved.


    The smart Chu Chu then recognized that the Thai sorcerer had done something to this tripod!


    There should be something simr in my antique shop!


    To solve our problem, Chu Chu told Li Mazi the truth and together they nned to save me tonight. They didnt expect to see Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei, which resulted in the previous misunderstanding.


    Listening to Chu Chu, I threw Li Mazi an angry look. You bastard, it was you!


    Li Mazi screamed as he tried to exin. Little Brother Zhang, you didnt listen, did you? I was unconscious at that time. I didnt know what I was doing to you!


    Chu Chu also exined for Li Mazis sake, Its true. Li Mazi was unconscious at the time. Even if you had cut his tongue, he wouldnt have screamed in pain.


    Zen Master Baimei said, Merciful Buddha! Female Benefactor, its really dangerous to use your ways to deal with this otherworldly item. Its possible that the item would counterattack!


    Chu Chu smiled. No. I lifted the curse of the small tripod in my house


    Zen Master Baimei spread his hand. Can I see the brass tripod from your house?


    Chu Chu nodded. She took out a small brass tripod from her bag and handed it to him.


    Baimei took a nce and shook his head. Female Benefactor, youve just used your method to subdue it temporarily. You will receive a bacsh once it bursts out.


    Li Mazi was scared, his face pale. Zen Master, please help us.


    The Zen Master smiled. Its all right. I have to do it once, so it wont matter if I do it twice. Itd be better to solve them both at once.


    Looking at Zen Master Baimeis attitude, he didnt even put the items in his eyes. I finally heaved a sigh of relief. Indeed, a master monk was far from being ordinary.


    I asked, Zen Master, how can we deal with these two small brass tripods once for all?


    Zen Master Baimei lifted his head to check the sky and then the clock. We cant do it tonight. The moment the tripods are the strongest has passed. We have to wait until tomorrow night


    I felt a little at a loss. Id have prefered to take risks now andpletely solve the brass tripod problem. I didnt want to wait another night<em>. Well, is it because Im the type of person who prefers to deal with the problem as soon as possible and enjoy the good time afterwards?</em>


    To me, the endless waiting was even more frightening than facing the danger directly.


    Actually, Chu Chu wanted to go home, but Li Mazi didnt agree. He was afraid that the little bronze tripod would counterattack and harm Chu Chu. They then decided to stay in my shop. Luckily my shop had many sofas. I nested on one while Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi continued to chat in the bedroom. Li Mazi and Chu Chu shared another couch and hugged each other to sleep.


    Since Chuyi was there, my tense nerves rxed. I found that I was quite tired and easily drifted into a long and nice sleep.


    Chuyi woke me up in the morning, once the rooster had crowed at the break of dawn. I stood up, still feeling drowsy. Are you hungry? Im going to buy some breakfast.


    Chuyi shook his head. Dont get breakfast. Were going to buy something special.


    My interest was aroused. As he mentioned something special, it should be some special delicacy. I nodded and then went to the bathroom to wash my face. We went out after I got changed.


    After I saw Li Mazi hugging Chu Chu in their sleep, I decided not to disturb them.


    I didnt expect that Chuyi would take me all the way to a funeral house


    I looked at Chuyi, wondering what he could buy there. However, I was disappointed once I confirmed that he didnt go there to buy some food.


    Do you know anybody from the staff working in this funeral house? Chuyi asked me.


    I nodded. We couldnt avoid having contact with the dead when it came to my trade. After the corpses were taken to the funeral house, the staff would discreetly remove the jewellery or essories from the dead. Many of the items would have the resentful energy; this would createmotions. Afterwards, they would sell those small otherworldly items to me.


    Its good then. Go and ask if theres any recent dead pregnant woman. It would be the best if you could find a five-month-pregnant woman, Chuyi told me.


    I was surprised, so I asked, Why do you want a five-month-pregnant dead woman?


    It wasnt easy to find such a specific kind of corpse.


    I want to take something. No matter how much it costs, just try to do it, he told me.


    I nodded Okay, then called Old Qi.


    Old Qi was the one in charge of the incineration. As a result, he had many chances to search the corpses. That was also why he got his hands on many pieces of jewellery from the dead, and I had bought a lot of small trinkets from him.


    Old Qi walked out to greet me when he heard I was there. He was quickly taken aback once he saw an incredibly handsome man whose murderous aura reached the sky. He assumed that I had brought someone to investigate him.


    To make Old Qi feel at ease, I frankly told him the purpose of our visit and that Chuyi was my close friend.


    Its not convenient to talk here. We should get a room and talk, Chuyi said. Old Qi then took us to a waiting room.


    Old Qi was quite surprised to hear Chuyis request. Why do you want to find such a corpse?


    I assured him, You dont need to mind that. Money is not an issue, either. Just get the job done and youll receive money for it.


    Old Qi found it difficult. He sighed and said, I dont want to hide things from you, Boss Zhang. Its not that I dont want to help you. Someone is also interested in finding a simr corpse. I must keep my word.


    <em>Oh crap, someone else is also looking for that corpse!</em>


    However, I immediately recognized that the one who wanted the same corpse could be rted to the cursed tripods. <em>Did a Thai sorcerer plot against him, too?</em>


    Chuyi asked Old Qi with cold eyes, Is the person Thai?


    Old Qi nodded. He was startled. How did you know?


    Chuyi looked at me, grinning. Seems like we got the ringleader


    I immediately understood. It turned out the one who wanted to harm me was the same person who had contacted Old Qi for the corpse.


    The mes of my anger were about to burst. <em>We tried everything before and found nothing. And now, we found the source without an ounce of effort. They brought themselves to my door. You wont get away!</em>


    I didnt say anything, I simply took out thirty thousand renminbi from my pocket and threw the stack of money on the table. Old Qi, do me a favor. We want that corpse, just give us a price. If that Thai manes again, you should tell me immediately!


    In China, if you didnt have money, you couldnt do anything. As soon as Old Qi saw the money, his smile broadened. Deal! I will call you first when theye here!


    I asked, Hey, dont just take the money without doing the job. Is there any five-month-pregnant corpse in the funeral house?


    Old Qi stooped and bent his back. Boss Zhang, you came at the right time! Its true that weve just received a pregnant woman. But Im not a doctor so I cant tell how many months in she had been. Anyway, her belly looks big.


    I asked Old Qi to let me go there and take a look.


    The corpse looked like she had died only a few days before. It seemed she had overdosed with sleeping pills tomit suicide. Her face color had turned into a scary purple.


    Chuyi carefully checked the corpses head and legs. He nodded to me. It works.


    Then, he took out a white candle from his chest and found a small piece of iron in the room. Holding the iron with a pair of pliers, he ced it under the womans chin. At the same time, he asked me to light up the candle and burn the piece of iron.


    Neither Old Qi nor I knew what Chuyi was doing.


    I wanted to ask him about the corpse and the ritual, but I decided to keep my mouth shut once I saw his expressionless face. I simply did what he asked me to do.


    Soon, the candle had heated the piece of iron until it was red. The pregnant corpses chin vibrated under the heat from the iron. Chuyi was chanting something under his breath while using his other hand to make a series of hand symbols on the womans face. I had no idea what he was doing.


    Soon, the air was filled with the smell of roasted meat. I tried my best to keep quiet and not to inhale the smell.


    Old Qi seemed unable to endure that ghastly scene, so he left.


    Chuyi didnt pause his chanting even for a moment; his hand symbols also kept changing. However, it looked quiteborious to him. In a short moment, sweat had already beaded his forehead.


    I saw something golden ooze from the pregnant corpse. I thought it had to be corpse oil.


    Chuyi wanted to extract corpse oil from this deceased pregnant woman?


    While my eyes were glued to the corpse, the womans mouth suddenly dropped open. At the same time, she started to giggle.


    The sudden reaction scared me. Inded on my butt, then the candle fell on the ground and went out!

 Chapter 129: Bodhisattva Congee

    Chapter 129: Bodhisattva Congee


    Chuyi shot me a cold re. Pick it up. Keep burning it.


    Putting my fears aside, I picked up the candle and continued to burn it.


    The pregnant corpses mouth opened wider. Burping sounds were continuously echoing inside her throat. She also hupped; sticky saliva oozed from the corner of her mouth every time she hupped, which painted a really disgusting sight.


    She looked horrible. Her eyes bulged, showing more white than ck as she gazed nkly at the void.


    For some reason, I had the feeling that the pregnant woman was looking at me with resentment. I had goosebumps on my back right after thinking about it.


    Chuyi would use his handkerchief to wipe the drool every time the pregnant corpse burped. Shortly after, his handkerchief had turned into a gruesome dark yellowish color.


    Eventually, Chuyi signaled, Thats enough. I immediately threw the candle aside and rubbed my sore arm.


    What are you going to do with that? I asked.


    Chuyi checked the pregnant corpses chin. There was only a small burnt spot, which would only be visible with a closer look.


    Lets go! Chuyi stood up, carefully wrapping the handkerchief. Tell the man who incinerates the corpses to contact us as soon as the Thai sorcerer appears. Money is not a problem.


    I immediately nodded. I found Old Qi and advised him, then we left the funeral house.


    When we returned, I simply told the others that the Thai sorcerer had also gone to the funeral parlor to find a pregnant corpse. Zen Master Baimei was so angry his face turned purple. Those Thai people are really vicious and merciless! They used Bodhisattva Congee!


    I felt nauseous because I could guess what the Bodhisattva Congee was. It was actually the pregnant corpses drool; her saliva did resemble rice congee


    What are you going to do? Chuyi asked Zen Master Baimei.


    Merciful Buddha. As long as the pregnant corpse is all right, we could take them down in one go.


    I heaved a sigh of relief, seeing that Zen Master Baimei seemed to have everything under control.


    Everything was ready, and we were just waiting for the right chance. I decided to invite them to have lunch at a nice hotel since we had nothing else to worry about.


    During lunch, Li Mazi took the opportunity to invite Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei to his wedding.


    Zen Master Baimei looked embarrassed. He pondered for a while before replying. Benefactor, I wonder if I should tell you something.


    Oh, what is it? asked Li Mazi.


    Zen Master Baimei counted on his fingers. The date of your wedding isnt really ideal. How about I propose an auspicious date for you?


    I was interested in this, so I asked, Is your wedding day something that should be picked carefully?


    Zen Master Baimei smiled. Of course. Thebination of Yin and Yang requires the Yin and Yang energy from earth and the heavens. If the hour you choose isnt right, it will have a strong effect on the rest of your life.


    Li Mazi immediately asked Zen Master Baimei to show him the right date.


    Zen Master Baimei used his fingers one more time. Then, he advised the couple to push back their wedding for two months, which would help them blend beautifully with their Yin and Yang, so they could love and take care of each other well.


    Li Mazi thanked Zen Master Baimei since he and Chu Chu had been quarrelling a lot these days. Li Mazi was satisfied by the oue and decided to pay for everyones lunch. In any case, he had several hundred thousand renminbi at the moment. This small amount of money wasnt an issue.


    After paying, a waiter approached us as we were about to leave. He asked, Excuse me, is Ms. Chu Chu here?


    Chu Chu was clueless. She asked the waiter, Thats me. Whats wrong?


    Theres a mister who asked me to deliver this box to you. He said its your birthday present, the waiter answered.


    We looked at Chu Chu, and asked, Todays your birthday?


    Chu Chu frowned. I actually dont know when my birthday is


    Li Mazi smiled. Its free anyway. You shouldnt waste it.


    Then, Li Mazi offered to take the big box for her. He trembled a little bit since the thing inside was somewhat heavy.


    He handed the box to Chu Chu. Chu Chu, its your birthday gift. You should open it. Im going to get you a cake. We should celebrate your birthdayter today


    Chu Chu nodded with a warm and tender smile.


    However, we gawked in shock when Chu Chu opened the box.


    Unexpectedly, there was a tripod inside the box, the same one that had appeared in Li Mazis house.


    I immediately knew that something was wrong. I called the waiter and asked, Who told you to deliver this box? Where is he?


    Gone He already left. The waiter was scared and shaken because of my stern questioning.


    Go get him! I thundered then immediately departed.


    I was sure that this box had been sent by the Thai sorcerer who had cast the spell on us. Although I didnt know his motive, I was certain it wouldnt be anything good.


    Chuyi and Baimei followed me.


    I saw a sneaky figure watching us, hiding near the hotels door. He got in his car and left the moment he saw use out.


    Chuyi pulled me back as I was about to take a taxi. No! Chu Chus in danger. We should head back.


    Prior to entering the private room, we heard Li Mazi screaming like a pig being ughtered. Chu Chu, are you okay?!


    I rushed into the room and saw Chu Chu leaning in Li Mazis chest. A trickle of blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. She waspletely still, with her eyes tightly shut.


    Li Mazi got on his knees once he saw Chuyi enter the room. Brother, please help Chu Chu. She just vomited blood


    I hurried to pull Li Mazi up. You dont need to say that. Let him check the situation first.


    Chuyi felt Chu Chus pulse, his sword-like eyebrows arching.


    From his expression alone, I knew things were bad and couldnt help but feel really anxious.


    How is it? How is it? Li Mazi grabbed Chuyis arm. He was so worried his tears began to roll.


    Chuyi shook his head. Its the bacsh from the otherworldly item. We cant be too optimistic.


    What? I was taken aback. How could an otherworldly item act that? I have never encountered such a situation before, even if it were an evil item.


    Its not an ordinary otherworldly item, Zen Master Baimei said, Its the otherworldly item controlled by the Thai sorcerer. Its evil effect was definitely enhanced. And, given that your wife subdued this otherworldly item previously, when it bursts, it will affect her first


    Li Mazi didnt understand, he just begged the two to save Chu Chu with a pained expression.


    Chu Chu was a kind and nave woman who unfortunately had a rough childhood. I couldnt ease my heart, since she had received the bacsh as she tried to save me and Li Mazi...


    I said, Zen Master Baimei, Chuyi, no matter what, you must save Chu Chu!


    Chuyi said, Dont worry. I will think of a solution. We should get back to the shop.


    Li Mazi hugged Chu Chu close to his chest as he cried. I didnt know how tofort him.


    I was truly useless. I could drink with him and even kill someone with him, but I didnt know how tofort him.


    After we returned, Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei stayed there and continued talking about the matter at hand.


    I invited several doctors to check Chu Chus condition. However, they couldnt figure out what kind of disease she had so they couldnt give her the right treatment. I couldnt do anything else but to give them some money and see them off.


    Around an hourter, Zen Master Baimei called me, saying that he wanted to exin the situation to me first.


    I immediately sat down. Zen Master, hows the situation?


    Zen Master Baimei chanted, Merciful Buddha, it seems they knew our whole n. They gave us a lesson, warning us about not meddling in their business


    I gritted my teeth in anger. Damn, doing dark deeds behind our backs. If they have the ability, why dont they show themselves!


    Zen Master Baimei said, The Thai sorcerer has indeed done some sneaky deeds, but thats also his strong point. We must be very careful from now on.


    I then asked, Zen Master Baimei, what could we do to treat Chu Chus injury?

 Chapter 130: Thai Sorcerer Vs Chinese Master

    Chapter 130: Thai Sorcerer Vs Chinese Master


    Zen Master Baimei ced the small bronze tripod on the table and observed it. He said with a dark face, I have never seen such a haughty Thai sorcerer before. Its a deration of war to the entire otherworldly item circle! If we dont retaliate, no one would have the face to do this job anymore.


    I dont care about the war deration, I said, As long as we can save Chu Chu.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. Benefactor, its not as simple as you think. I can subdue that person myself, but


    But what? Li Mazi arrived but we could barely recognize him with that pitiful face. Zen Master Baimei, no matter what price I have to pay, I want to save Chu Chu. Even if I have to die.


    What an infatuated couple! Zen Master Baimei sighed. It seemed he had just remembered his old love story and tears lingered in his eyes.


    Im worried about Chu Chus health, she may not endure until the end of the fight between both sides. Im afraid her life will be at risk if unexpected things happen, Zen Master Baimei said reluctantly.


    What can I do? Li Mazi was restless as he looked at Zen Master Baimei.


    You Zen Master Baimei paused slightly. Actually, you can share her pain. But Im worried that it would harm the both of you. Fortunately, Chu Chu has been practicing ghost doctor techniques since she was a kid. Her body has developed resistance against magic. However, youre just an ordinary person.


    Its okay. Li Mazi didnt waver. As long as Chu Chu survives, it doesnt matter how painful it is. But it will be a misfortune to my child


    Then, Li Mazi turned to look at me.


    I knew Li Mazi wanted to entrust his son to me.


    <em>What should I do? Agree with him so that he wouldn''t worry about his death?</em> I shook my head repeatedly. Nonsense! Youll be alright! Dont even think about giving Li Meng to me. Im not going to take care of him.


    Try your best, alright? Li Mazi forced a smile.


    He knew that even if he didnt say anything. I wouldnt just stand idly if something happened to him.


    Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi got busy after our discussion.


    Chuyi bought a disposable syringe and took a sample of Chu Chus blood, with the intention of injecting it into Li Mazis vein.


    Cant he just drink it? It would be bad if the blood is rejected, I suggested.


    Chuyi said, No, we cant do that. If the blood gets into his stomach, the consequence would be even more serious.


    I could only watch helplessly as Chuyi injected the blood into Li Mazi.


    Following Chuyis instructions, Li Maziy down next to Chu Chu right after the injection and fell asleep.


    Chuyi asked me to ce the two small tripods on top of their chests and make sure they wouldnt fall. Then, he asked me to stay and watch the couple; I would have to monitor them and call him when the tripods began to buzz.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei went to take a rest afterwards. There would be a fierce fight tonight, so they had to be at their peak condition.


    Meanwhile, I stayed behind to watch Li Mazi and Chu Chu and tried my best not to blink.


    While asleep, their faces were all pale and their breathing short and weak. It looked as if they had just died. I was deeply worried by this, so I had an urge to check Li Mazis pulse every other moment.


    Theyy like that, sleeping until midnight without moving in the slightest.


    It made me worry even more!


    Eventually, when the clock ticked at 1 AM in the morning, I heard the small tripods buzzing. It seemed as if someone were crazily beating them.


    I checked the bronze tripods and saw them vibrating at a high frequency, as if they were trying to get rid of the bond!


    Li Mazi and Chu Chu looked even paler and their breathing was shorter. Their bodies were also shaking along with the tripods vibrations.


    I immediately rushed to the bedroom and woke Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei.


    They checked the tripods and became serious, asking me to open all the doors and windows to ventte.


    Chuyi took out the handkerchief he had used to collect the sticky saliva from the pregnant corpse. Then, he lit the handkerchief and divided it into two parts, one for each brass tripod.


    Once that step was done, he threw a talisman into each tripod. Instantly, blue mes rose from the two tripods!


    Those mes were like venomous snakes, slithering everywhere. The bronze tripods began to vibrate harder and faster. It seemed as if they were trying to move toward Chu Chus and Li Mazis heads.


    I was so worried. <em>What if the tripods fall and burn them?</em>


    <em></em>With that thought, I made a move to adjust the tripods.


    However, Chuyi shouted, Dont touch them!


    I hurriedly retracted my hand.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei sat down cross-legged, mumbling something very quick.


    The brass tripods on Chu Chu and Li Mazi moved toward their heads and then returned repeatedly.


    I figured out what was happening. Their faces would seem to be in a lot of pain whenever the small tripods got close to their heads, and they would look better if the tripods moved further away


    From the looks of it, Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi were using their magic methods to control the bronze tripods. They were trying to keep the bronze tripods from getting closer to their heads, while the spell caster was attempting the opposite.


    I had no idea what would happen if the tripods reached their heads.


    I vaguely heard someone chanting an unintelligible text through the window. I went to check and found a white van that was parked in front of my antique shop. The chanting seemed to being from that van.


    <em>The sorcerer is in that van?</em>


    My face turned purple with anger. <em>Despicable bastard, how dare youe to my house and harm my brother like this. What kind of person would I be if I didn''t give you a lesson!</em>


    I was about to charge over.


    However, I managed to get a hold of myself. What if there were more people in the van? I would be unable to do anything if I went alone. That would also give them a chance to disrupt Chuyi and Zen Master Baimeis efforts!


    I gave up on vengeful thoughts and forced myself to clear my head, as I could tell that the Thai sorcerer wasnt alone in that van.


    They probably didnt try to disturb Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei because they wanted to kill people discreetly, without exposing their whereabouts.


    The police would have a reason to arrest them if they made a mess in the open.


    However, that didnt mean they wouldnt try. There were so many reckless people on earth. What if they couldnt beat Chuyi and the Zen Masters magic and decided to y hard? Let alone keeping Chu Chu and Li Mazi safe, I was afraid that Chuyi and Baimei would also be in danger!


    After considering the possibility, I quickly came up with a n. I sneaked out through the shops back door and ran to the nearest gasoline station. I bought a barrel of gasoline and a pipe. When I came back, I slowly extended the pipe toward the white van.


    I inserted a steel wire inside the pipe to prevent the pipe from meandering. Shortly after, the pipe had reached under the van! Then, I immediately poured gasoline through the pipe.


    All the gasoline was poured under the van to create a puddle. I took out a lighter. The moment the gasoline touched the spark, it immediately started burning. The fire hadpletely encircled the white van.


    The people in the car panicked. They hurried to get out and check to see what was going on. When they saw the surrounding fire, one of them screamed, Quick! Drive the van!


    However, it seemed the engine was affected by the sudden burst. They tried getting the engine started several times without sess. They were quite flustered by the rising me and quickly got out of the van and started pushing it.


    The Thai sorcerer in the van was distracted by the sudden event. I could see the small tripods moving farther away from Chu Chus and Li Mazis heads. Chuyi and the Zen Master seized the chance and stood up, chanting louder and louder.


    Eventually, Chuyi drew the long, blue sword on his back. He used one hand to support himself on a chair to make a beautiful turn, hacking the small tripods with his sword.


    The bronze tripods fell to the ground. And, just as the tripods fell, I heard someone shrieking in the van. The vans window rolled down, and I saw a Thai man whose seven orifices were bleeding.


    He red at me with indignation, then screamed, Go


    Right at this moment, their engine finally started. They immediately ran away like stray dogs, leaving the antique street.

 Chapter 131: The Frightening Funeral Home

    Chapter 131: The Frightening Funeral Home


    I finally could heave a sigh of relief. I turned around and watched Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei. They were still chanting some sacred texts. Zen Master Baimei was using his m beads on Li Mazi and Chu Chu.


    I knew it wasnt over, but I couldnt help them with anything. The only thing I could do was sit and worry.


    While I was feeling restless, Li Mazi and Chu Chu suddenly sprung up from the ground.


    I was so happy. I walked forward and asked, Li Mazi, how do you feel now?


    However, Li Mazi suddenly grabbed onto my shoulders. I could feel his fingers, like a pair of iron pliers, tightly grip my shoulders.


    I shook my body in pain. However, Li Mazi didnt want to release me!


    Zen Master Baimei shouted. He used his m beads and hit Li Mazi in the face with them. Li Mazi screeched and pushed me aside.


    I hit two chairs and fell to the ground. This fall was really serious as I felt my internal organs somewhat get dislocated. I had to lie on the ground for quite a long time before I could get up


    After Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei finished their chanting, Chu Chu woke up first. She vomited ck blood then slumped feebly on the ground.


    I hurried to support her and pulled her up. Chu Chu, are you all right?


    Chu Chu turned to look at Li Mazi with a worried expression. I knew she was too weak and couldnt talk. Everythings alright now. You should rest first.


    As for Li Mazi, no matter how hard Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi chanted, he didnt open his eyes.


    His body was stiff and he looked hostile enough to attack everybody!


    Eventually, Zen Master Baimei said, Is that Thai sorcerer crazy? Weve broken his magic and injured him gravely. Yet, he still wants to fight against us?


    Then he stomped and kicked Li Mazi to the ground. He used his m beads and tied them around Li Mazis neck. The beads held him still.


    Chuyi nced at me. Zhang Jiulin, you have to suck the cursed blood out of Li Mazi. If you can do that, everything will be alright.


    I couldnt help but shiver. I have to use my mouth to suck it from his mouth?


    Chuyi said, Of course. You have to do it as soon as possible. Zen Master Baimei cant hold it any longer


    Indeed, shortly afterward, Li Mazi sent Zen Master Baimei aside with a loud thud. The old monk was really old. How could he resist Li Mazi, who was young and under a spell?


    I looked at Zen Master Baimei and saw him grimace. I knew he couldnt hold it for much longer.


    Chuyi panicked. He dashed forward, grabbed Li Mazis arms and pushed them down. He turned around and said to me, Quickly!


    <em>Damn! I cant care about hygiene now!</em>


    Immediately, I nted my mouth onto Li Mazis mouth and sucked.


    I felt I had sucked some sticky fluid, which felt very nauseating. I couldnt help but retch then continue to suck.


    Li Mazis strength was slowly draining. When he slumped on the ground like a muddy puddle, I finally exhaled. I put him aside and gasped for my breath.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei also looked exhausted.


    I fetched three mineral water bottles from the fridge and gave them the bottles.


    Is everything done now? I asked Chuyi.


    He nodded and said, Almost


    I almost vomited blood from anger. <em>Holy moly! I gave away my first kiss and youre telling me its only almost done? What do you mean by almost done?!</em>


    I didnt know what to do at this point.


    Chuyi said, Nothing major will happen now. We should rest well tonight. Tomorrow, we will wrap this up and resolve the issue.


    After listening to Chuyisforting words, I felt better. After drinking mineral water, I took Li Mazi and Chu Chu to the bed while Zen Master Baimei, Chuyi, and I slept on the ground.


    At dawn, my body felt alright so I got up and did some stretches. I checked on Li Mazi and saw that he was sleeping. However, the others werent in the room.


    When I stepped out, I saw Chu Chu preparing breakfast. She looked much better. Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi were silently drinking tea.


    I hurriedly asked them, Is Li Mazi okay now? Why is he still sleeping?


    Chuyi didnt answer my questions. After breakfast, were going to the funeral home. Theres something we must finish there.


    I nodded.


    Even after we had breakfast, Li Mazi didnt show any signs of waking up. However, his face now showed color and he was lying on the bed. It was as if he was sleeping.


    I turned to Chuyi and said, Is Li Mazi going to be okay?


    After receiving confirmation from Chuyi, I felt my mind at ease. We then headed to the funeral home.


    However, when we arrived at the funeral home and asked to see Old Qi, the security guy fumed. You want to see Old Qi? Even I dont know where the heck he has gone! We have many corpses waiting here to be incinerated. No one just disappears like that!


    In desperation, I couldnt do anything else but call Old Qi.


    However, I called him several times but no one picked up the phone. I became worried.


    <em>Did something happen to Old Qi?</em>


    I knew Old Qi well. He was a middle-aged man with a family to feed. He really appreciated his job and ced more importance on his job than his life! In thest ten years, he never went on a vacation. He never disappeared from work during working hours!


    <em>Where could he have gone?</em>


    At this moment, Chuyi patted my shoulder. Did he often disappear without a known cause like this?


    I shook my head.


    Chuyi took a deep breath. Take me to see the pregnant corpse right now.


    I couldnt do anything else but call Old Qis apprentice. I asked for his help.


    Old Qis apprentice directly took us to the funeral home.


    The funeral home was cold as usual. I wrapped my clothes tightly around myself, but it didnt help. Oh well, it wasnt a big deal since I would only stay here for a short time.


    After we got in, Chuyi led us to a mortuary freezer cab and frowned. Is the pregnant corpse kept in this cab?


    I was startled. How did he know that? Although the cabs were coded, it was impossible for him to know the pregnant corpses code.


    Old Qis apprentice nodded. Yes, thats right. Its right there.


    Chuyi took a deep breath and left the morgue.


    I hurried and caught up to him. Whats going on? Arent you going to check the pregnant corpse?


    Chuyi halted and turned around to talk to me. The pregnant corpse is not inside that cab


    "No? I was bewildered and looked at him. How could you know that?


    Chuyi said, Nevermind that. If you dont want to cause trouble, follow me. Hurry up!


    I knew Chuyi had his reasons. I followed him but in my heart, I still had a lot of questions.


    <em>How does he know that the corpse of the pregnant woman isnt in that freezer?</em>


    <em>And, he said that if we open the freezer, we would cause trouble. What does that mean? The pregnant womans corpse will pester us?</em>


    However, all of my questions were answered not long after we left the morgue.


    I heard the Old Qis apprentice shriek. Oh my God! Oh my God! Help! Help me!


    Then he rushed out with a panic-stricken expression.


    I was scared and stopped him. Hey, hey, are you okay?


    The freezer M-my teacher is in the freezer! Old Qis apprentices eyes bulged. Help! Guys! Something bad has happened!


    I couldnt help but take a deep breath. I turned and looked at Chuyi.


    Chuyi exined this situation. I underestimated them. Those Thai people stole the pregnant corpse. Theyre about to take revenge. Its possible that Old Qi found them in the middle of their act, so they killed him!


    Damn, these bastards are ruthless! They kill people as they please! I scoffed. But you said that if we opened the freezer, big trouble would happen. Whats that about?


    The morgue has surveince cameras. If we open the freezer, the police wille to our door. Go, quickly! Li Mazi might be in danger!


    Then he left in a hurry.


    This was aplicated situation. I thought everything would be over; but now, more problems hade our way.


    I wondered what kind of deep grudge those people had against me, enough for them to invest so much effort to deal with me. They had even killed innocent people to achieve their purpose.


    Then I vaguely felt an invisible pair of hands grab onto me. These hands would never let me go until they could turn me into some meat sausage!

 Chapter 132: The Old Shaman Leaves the Mountain

    Chapter 132: The Old Shaman Leaves the Mountain


    I returned to the shop with heavy footsteps. Li Mazi still hadnt woken up yet.


    Seeing my distressed look, Chu Chu came straight to me. When will Li Mazi get better?


    I sighed and didnt dare to look at Chu Chus yearning eyes. Im sorry, Chu Chu. Weve failed. They have stolen the pregnant corpse, and they even killed the man who watched those corpses. Im sorry


    Chu Chu gave me a slight nod. She didnt say anything, but I still med myself.


    Chu Chu walked over to Li Mazis bed and used her porcin-like hands to carefully wash his face. Li Mazi, youre like this because of me. Dont worry, Im not gonna let anything happen to you. Even if I have to use the reversing witchcraft of our ghost doctor inheritance, I wont regret it!


    Zen Master Baimei looked surprised. Merciful Buddha. Benefactor, is there still someone who knows how to perform the reversing witchcraft?


    Chu Chu nodded. My mother.


    Zen Master Baimeiforted her. The situation isnt that serious yet. We have to be flexible. If they want to y with us, well give them something to y with.


    Zen Master Baimei, what did they want to gain from stealing the corpse? How can we counterattack them? I asked.


    Zen Master Baimei exined, Actually, the Thai mind-control sorcery works in two phases. There is the pre-control phase and the post-control phase.


    During the pre-control phase, they will cast a spell that will harm the victim. During the post-control phase, they will make the victim go into contact with some otherworldly item. Then, they will cast a spell on the said otherworldly item. After the item receives the curse, it will be passed onto the victim.


    We have disturbed their pre-control phase. They were enraged, so they are nning to use the post-control phase to deal with Li Mazi!


    I dropped my jaw in shock. It works that way too?


    Yeah, actually, Thai sorcerers based their post-control phase on the reversing witchcraft of ghost doctors. Once they use the technique, no one will be able to solve the curse. However, I think they didnt expect that some of us know how to use the reversing witchcraft.


    Chu Chu understood immediately and cheered up. She said, It seems I understand your idea, Zen Master Baimei.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded with a smile.


    I also understood Zen Master Baimeis idea. His idea was that we should use the reversing witchcraft to shift the evil mind control back to its practitioner.


    It was like ying ping-pong. They hit us with the ball and we had to send it back.


    Of course, this was just our theory. I didnt know if we could use this method or if there would be some difficulties. I asked Zen Master Baimei. He didnt sound confident. Merciful Buddha, we should try it first! If we fail, we will think of a second option. We cant afford to have casualties


    I nodded and asked Chu Chu to invite the old shaman to meet with us.


    When I returned to Baisha Vige, all the vigers treated me with great respect. They insisted that I stay for dinner.


    However, as this was an emergency situation, I didnt dare to dy even a minute. I directly went and saw the old shaman.


    When the shaman learned that someone had tried to harm her future son-inw, she was enraged. She decided to leave the mountain.


    However, when I told her that we needed her to perform the reversing witchcraft, she kept silent.


    Chu Chu became anxious. Is there anything wrong?


    The old shaman sighed. This reversing witchcraft is a forbidden technique, even to the ghost doctors. If one is careless, they might die on the spot.


    Although she had mastered ghost doctor techniques, she had only used the technique once when she was young. After that time, she had lost her strength and couldnt leave her bed for a month.


    From that time onward, she never performed such witchcraft. She didnt know if it would work this time.


    After listening to the old shaman, my heart chilled. Chu Chu also stayed silent.


    It wasnt different from using the old shamans life in exchange for Li Mazis. If she seeded, her vitality would be badly affected. If she failed, the two would die right then and there. It wasnt fair to the shaman either way.


    I turned to look at the old shaman. What do you think about this matter?


    If the old shaman refused, I wouldnt pester or force her. No matter what, it was too dangerous. She didnt have the responsibility nor obligation to do this.


    The old shaman suddenly asked me, How did Li Mazi get mind controlled?


    I hadnt opened my mouth that Chu Chu started to cry. Mother, Li Mazi got mind controlled because of me! He has shared half of the curse someone had cast on me. Ive been practicing ghost doctor techniques since I was young. Thats why Ive recovered. But he couldnt endure it


    All of a sudden, the old shaman smiled. Sweetheart, do you know how your father and I met?


    Chu Chu shook her head. I was bewildered and looked at the shaman. I didnt know why she suddenly mentioned this.


    That year, I was bitten by a seven-colored centipede of the Miao n. My life was about toe to an end, but your father ignored his familys opposition and transferred the venom in my body into his. Although I was saved, his health became worse. It cost him a lot to recover. However, we had a happy life, much happier than anybody else.


    "So, my sweetheart, if you meet a man who is willing to die for you, you must hold onto him tightly. Actually, I didnt like that man Li Mazi. He has a sweet tongue, and he looks greedy and lustful. However, what hes done this time went way beyond my expectations. Us ghost doctors favor this kind of person! So, even if I have to lose my life this time, I will bring this man back from hell for you! The old shamans spirit was aroused.


    Chu Chu was worried. Mother, how about you teach me the reversing witchcraft? Hes my man. Ill save him.


    The old shaman lovingly rubbed Chu Chus head. You silly kid, Im old now. I cant live for long. But youre different. Youre still very young. You need to have children with this man and continue our ghost doctor lineage!


    Chu Chu was helpless. She didnt say anything but cried. The old shaman kept a smile on her face the entire time.


    I knew she was happy because Chu Chu had found a good man.


    When we arrived at the antique shop, Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi were waiting for us at the door.


    However, I didnt expect to see that Zen Master Baimei, who had always worn his gray monk robe, had changed himself a little bit. He trimmed his beard and wore a moonlight-colored kasaya.


    From a distance, he looked like an aloof immortal.


    Seeing the old shaman, Zen Master Baimei was deeply moved. He strode forward and greeted her. Linglong, I never would have thought that I would have another chance to meet you in this life.


    The old shaman nced at Zen Master Baimei and said casually, Youre involved in this?


    Zen Master Baimei nodded.


    Then you should watch my back tonight, the old shaman said. Then she turned her eyes to Chuyi. And this mister is


    Chuyi answered with a cold voice, An anonymous junior from Mitu Temple in Hong Kong. My Daoist name is Chuyi.


    The old shaman looked pensive and studied Chuyi. Eventually, she took a deep breath. Really simr...


    I knew Chuyis identity wasnt that simple. However, I didnt know who he was. He didnt want to share his information with me.


    Since he didnt want to tell me, I couldnt chase him. Itd be better not to ask about it.


    Then the old shaman checked on Li Mazi. Her face darkened immediately. This doesnt look like the pre-control phase, does it? Is this the post-control phase?


    Right, its the post-control phase. Zen Master Baimei nodded.


    In other words, I should wait until the Thai sorcerer tries to kill Li Mazi. Then I will use my reversing witchcraft to send the power of the curse back to him? said the old shaman.


    Right. Zen Master Baimei nodded again.


    What did they use to curse Li Mazi? asked the old shaman.


    I immediately picked up the small brass tripod on the tea table. It was this.


    The old shaman studied the bronze tripod carefully. All of a sudden, she sighed deeply. Do you know the origin of this bronze tripod?


    After hearing this question from the shaman, my interest was aroused.


    Working in this business, we shared the same interests. When we dealt with otherworldly items, we werent moved the most by subduing the items. Instead, it was the moment when we learned about the history and the stories behind the items.


    No matter what, each otherworldly item had an interesting legend behind it.


    Because of these surprising legendary stories, the otherworldly merchant business never declined after several hundred years.


    I immediately pricked my ears up to listen to her.


    Take a look at the small letter engraved at the bottom of the tripod. Do you recognize it? asked the old shaman.

 Chapter 133: King Zhous Tripod

    Chapter 133: King Zhou''s Tripod


    Previously, I had noticed some letters at the bottom of the tripod. However, there was green rust on the bronze material, which might have exined why I had not paid close attention to it.


    After giving it a closer look, I now recognized that there was some ancient writing. However, I didnt know what it meant.


    The shaman said with a smile, Its the word, Zhou.


    <em>The word, Zhou ()?</em>


    <em>Why would a bronze tripod have the Zhou engraved at the bottom?</em>


    The shaman said, Do you know King Zhou of Shang? He was thest King of the Shang Dynasty. He was one of the most infamous Kings in history because he invented torments like the hot pir punishment and scooping of the eyes and the heart. Back then, he killed Bo Yikao, son of Ji Chang  Duke of the West. Then, he turned Bo Yikao into mince meat and cooked him in this tripod.


    I felt frightened after listening to her. This little bronze tripod would be the oldest otherworldly item I had ever encountered. It was dated back to the Shang Dynasty.


    The story of Ji Chang eating his sons flesh was popr.


    Rumor had it that King of Zhou was afraid that the Duke of the West, Ji Chang, would rebel against him, so he imprisoned him. He captured Ji Changs son, Bo Yikao, as a hostage. Then, he started to enjoy the performance in his pce.


    To add insult to Ji Chang, King Zhou of Shang found a big bronze tripod and boiled Bo Yikao alive. Then, he cooked the poor man into meat soup and fed it to Ji Chang, his father. He did that because of a rumor that said Ji Chang was a saint, and a saint would never eat his sons flesh.


    He didnt expect that Ji Chang would bear the insult and eat that bowl of meat soup! Ji Chang then earned the King of Zhous trust. Shortly after, he was released to his state.


    Before Ji Chang left, King Zhou of Shang purposely invited him to see the big brass tripod he had used to cook Bo Yikao. Bo Yikaos body was chopped and minced, but his head had been held inside a smaller tripod.


    Of course, Ji Chang understood that the cooked head inside the tripod was actually his sons


    However, he wasnt enraged. Out of expectation, he begged King Zhou of Shang to bestow him the tripod that held his sons head. When he came back, he hugged the small brass tripod and cried for three days. He then pledged in his heart to take revenge for his son. Then, he engraved the name Zhou at the bottom of the tripod!


    Yearster, Ji Changs state overthrew the Shang Dynasty. King Zhou of Shang was forced to set fire to himself and was burned to death.


    After looking at the small bronze tripod, I shivered inwardly.


    This in-looking small tripod had an extremely horrible and cannibalistic history behind it.


    No wonder this tripod had tried to run toward Li Mazis head. Did it want to cook Li Mazis head altogether?


    When Zen Master Baimei heard this cruel story, he chanted Merciful Buddha twice then left the room.


    Chu Chu gawked in shock. Ghost doctors saved people, but this bronze tripod was the opposite, it only killed people.


    Although she had a difficult time growing up in Baisha Vige and didnt have nice neighbors, there were only trivial quarrels. They would never do something cannibalistic like this. When she listened to her mothers story, her eyes turned red and she even gritted her teeth angrily.


    The enemy had found such an infamous bronze tripod to be the otherworldly item. They had invested a lot of effort!


    If this tripod was handed over to the country, it would be a first-ss national treasure for sure.


    Even if it was circted around, it could be sold for a high price.


    However, I didnt have the intention of selling this tripod. It was really malicious. If it fell into the hands of bad people, it could create endless cmities.


    The old shaman ced the small brass tripod back on the table and took Chu Chu out of the shop. She told us they were going to buy something.


    I wanted to go with them as I was worried that they could face danger. If I apanied them, we could watch out for each other.


    However, the old shaman told me to stay and watch over Li Mazi. She told me that I shouldnt let anybody get close to him. If his condition worsened, she couldnt do anything to save him.


    I nodded and returned to my senses. I stayed and watched over Li Mazi.


    I soon understood the old shamans worries. I saw several strange people that sneaked around the antique shop. I thought about capturing and interrogating them. However, I didnt have any evidence. Additionally, if we caused a ruckus and the police was alerted, I didnt dare to imagine what would happen to Li Mazis tonight


    I couldnt do anything else but suppress my anger. My eyes didnt leave Li Mazi for even a second.


    When everybody gathered in the room, the sky had turned dark. I looked at the old shaman and saw that she had brought a red rope and a big rooster.


    I didnt have a clue of what she was going to do. I caught a glimpse of Chu Chu. She was restlessly worried.


    <em>Did the old shaman tell Chu Chu that things didnt look too optimistic?</em>


    I didnt know what the shaman had told Chu Chu and I wasnt in the mood to find out. Since she didnt want us to know, why would I pursue that? Was it any different from making people hate me?


    After dinner, the old shaman took action. At first, she cut off the roosters crest. Blood streamed from the chickens head while the animal struggled in pain.


    Then, she asked me to dig a hole in the yard and use the red rope to tie the roosters legs together. After that, the rooster was to be buried in the muddy soil.


    I took a deep breath. I didnt know why the shaman had to do this. I actually thought that she needed the rooster for something else.


    However, I followed her instructions and buried the big rooster in the backyard. It seemed that she was worried that the rooster was still alive. The old shaman came to the pit and stomped the ground topact the soil. After she confirmed that there was no movement underneath, she returned to the room and put the roosters crest into the small brass tripod.


    I was a little doubtful. <em>Didnt the Duke of the West, Ji Chang, bring only one small tripod home?</em>


    <em>How on earth am I seeing two tripods in front of me? Theres another one here. What happened?</em>


    Since the old shaman was taking care of Li Mazi, I didnt ask her. However, Chu Chu was standing next to me, so I asked her.


    Chu Chu giggled. How are you so slow? Youve just spotted the thing now


    I said defensively, No, its not that Im slow-witted. I was too worried about Li Mazi, so I didnt think much.


    The other tripod is actually a replica people cast. They used the method the King of Shang had used. The big bronze tripod he had used to cook human flesh was scaled and recast to make this replica. Now we have a pair.


    I was speechless.


    Then, Chu Chu and I watched the door while Chuyi, Zen Master Baimei, and the old shaman sat by Li Mazi in a triangle.


    We sat like this until 11 PM when suddenly, a rooster crowed from the backyard and broke the silence.


    I immediately turned and looked at the backyard. I was scared out of my wits!.


    The rooster I had buried was alive now. It was standing on top of the pile of soil I had buried it in. The rooster was still bleeding from the cut of its crest, which had wetted its head and eyes.


    The roosters congested eyes gazed at me. They were full of resentment.


    I was scared and quickly turned my head around.


    The old shaman suddenly spoke up. Its here!


    Immediately, the three people in the room sat upright and squinted. They didnt move. It was as if they were meditating.


    The big rooster continuously crowed and it began to walk around the backyard. When it passed by the door, it spread its wings and flew up. Then itnded on my shoulder.


    I was frightened. Instinctively, I wanted to pat the rooster and shoo it away.


    Chu Chu stopped me. Dont move!


    I couldnt do anything but stay put. I didnt want to alert the big rooster but my entire body was now damp with sweat.


    <em>What does the rooster want to do? Its obviously dead. What force is controlling it?</em>


    I was anxious and watched the shaman in hopes that she would do something quickly to solve this matter...

 Chapter 134: Theres Love To Die For

    Chapter 134: There''s Love To Die For


    However, the old shaman didnt do anything. She just looked at Chu Chu.


    Chu Chu had asked me to hold the big rooster tightly while she held onto the long red rope that tied the roosters legs. She pulled the rope towards the bed and tied it to Li Mazis pinky finger.


    I now remembered that when I had buried the rooster, I had used that red rope to tie the roosters legs together.


    And now, the rope was only tied to one leg. What was going on?


    After Chu Chu tied the red rope to Li Mazi, everything calmed down. We waited in silence.


    My arm felt sore but I didnt dare to move, as I didnt want to scare the rooster away.


    Around one hourter, the old shaman finally moved!


    She pulled Li Mazi up and let him sit on the bed. At the same time, the rooster I was holding couldnt stay calm anymore. It began to wiggle and pped its wings. Gurgling sounds escaped its throat.


    The shaman chanted something while she held a pair of scissors. She cut along Li Mazis body. I didnt know what she was cutting


    Chu Chu stood behind the old shaman. I didnt know what she was looking at, but her face was now extremely grave and frightened!


    All of a sudden, Li Mazi reached out both hands and grabbed the old shamans arms.


    Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi quickly stopped Li Mazi. They pushed him back by his shoulders.


    Li Mazis movements slowed down, but both of his hands were still trying to catch things. Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi had to put more effort into stopping him.


    The shaman started to read the incantation faster and faster.


    When I realized Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi couldnt hold Li Mazi anymore, I started to walk over to help. Then, Li Mazi abruptly screamed and jolted up. He grabbed the small tripod and tried to put it on his head!


    The other three stopped in the middle of their act. They watched Li Mazi firmly put the bronze tripod on his head.


    Right at this moment, my head suddenly buzzed and my consciousness went nk. My body didnt listen to my thoughts. I walked towards the other small tripod, picked it up and shroud it on my head.


    The moment the small tripod covered my head, everything went ck. A horrible heat was sent down from the crown of my head to my toes. The bronze tripod felt like a boiling pot. It was so painful. However, no matter how hard I tried, I couldnt lift it up.


    I stumbled. My head was a mess, but I could still hear the old shaman chanting something


    I didnt know how long the situation hadsted until someone finally lifted the tripod off my head. As soon as the tripod was removed, I was almost blinded by the strong light. I couldnt open my eyes.


    I felt dizzy and fell to the ground.


    Dreamily, I heard Chuyi call my name. It felt like his voice came to me from somewhere far away. I feebly opened my eyes and found myself leaning against Chuyis chest. He gave me a pill, which finally got me back on my feet.


    I grabbed the bed frame to support myself. I got up and looked around the room.


    What I saw gave me a heartache!


    Chu Chu and the shaman were lying on the ground. Their eyes were closed. It looked like they were unconscious.


    Li Mazi had blood all over his face and was lying on the bed. The roosters crest was kept between his lips. Li Mazi looked at Chu Chu with pain in his eyes. Slowly, he crawled toward her.


    Chu Chu, wake up! Please, wake up! Li Mazi softly cooed with tears.


    However, Chu Chu didnt talk. She tried hard to open her eyes and reached towards Li Mazis face. She rubbed his face. Then, she smiled sweetly.


    I didnt know what was going on, so I asked Chuyi. He signaled me to go out. He had something to tell me.


    When we walked out of the antique shop, he coldly said, The shaman told you this, didnt she?


    Told me what? I was bewildered and looked at him. I didnt know what he was talking about.


    Although the reversing witchcraft is powerful, it cant thoroughly send the evil power backward. The one who uses this witchcraft has to bear part of the power, the man exined.


    This immediately reminded me of what the shaman had told me on the way here.


    She had told me that her husband had almost died after he transferred the venom of the seven-colored centipede from her body to his.


    Shed said that performing the reversing witchcraft wasnt that different from using ones life in exchange for the others.


    However, at that time, I didnt think much of it.


    In other words, the old shaman has to bear the evil power that attacked Li Mazi? I gawked.


    Chuyi sighed inaudibly. A part of it. Chu Chu has quietly received the other part. And now, both of them have absorbed the evil power


    I was distressed. I wished I could just p my face! I was so selfish. When the old shaman told me her story, I should have known about this.


    It was toote now.


    I felt said and wanted to go back inside, but Chuyi grabbed me back. Where are you going?


    Its me who harmed the shaman and Chu Chu. Move the evil curse to me!


    Chuyi shook his head. Its toote. Do you think its that easy to remove and send back the evil curse? No. The shaman only has thest bit of her strength left. If she performs it again, she will be tortured to death.


    What should we do now? I was flustered. We shouldnt have let the mother and her daughter be involved in this. Do you know how terrible their lives used to be?


    Chuyi said, I dont know if they have suffered before, but I know theyre doing it willingly. I dont know what Li Mazi did to touch their hearts


    I stayed silent and pondered for quite a long time.


    Then, I gave him a firm answer. Li Mazi relied on his sincerity!


    The mans eyes moved. Sincerity?


    I smiled happily. Lets go. We should check on them.


    As soon as we entered the bedroom, Li Mazi shouted at us. Why did you do that? You understood very well that it would kill them!


    I had nothing to say. It was true that if we let Li Mazi choose, he would rather sacrifice his life.


    Zen Master Baimei chanted Merciful Buddha then left.


    Chuyiforted Li Mazi. Theyre not going to die. At least not now. However, in theing time, their bodies will be very vulnerable and feeble. If you listen to me, you can save them.


    I felt the urge of making it up for the shaman and her daughter. Chuyi, what should we do to save them?


    Chuyi said, Do you know Night Dragon Bait?


    <em>Night Dragon Bait?</em>


    It was the first time I heard the name. I shook my head.


    Is it an otherworldly item? asked Li Mazi.


    Chuyi nodded. Right.


    Okay, I said. Im sure I will find the Night Dragon Bait.


    Chuyi said, Its not that you can just find it if you seek it. You will need luck.


    From what Chuyi implied, I understood that as long as we still worked in the otherworldly item business, we would eventually find some clues about the Night Dragon Bait. But if we tried our best to find it, not only would we fail, we could also catch some unwanted attention.


    I was a little disappointed. Chuyi, can you guess how long it will be until we can find the item?


    The man shook his head. Destiny is something we cant tell beforehand. It could take a lifetime, or it could be just two months until you obtain some clue.


    Li Mazi asked with a heavy face, Chuyi, how long does Chu Chu have left to live?


    Chu Chu woke up before Chuyi could reply. She smiled sweetly at Li Mazi. Dont talk nonsense. Its just that my body will be feeble in the future. I wont be able to work.


    What work? Li Mazi forced a smile. Just stay at home and enjoy your life! The Li family will take care of you for a lifetime!


    Then, he nted a kiss on Chu Chus forehead.


    There are so many people here. Dont you feel embarrassed?! Chu Chu blushed and tried to get up. Li Mazi hurried and supported her.


    I also supported the old shaman so she could get up.


    Remember to give them more nutrientster. It was rare that Chuyi would advise something like that.


    Excellent! Mother-inw, wife, what do you want to eat? Just tell me. Even if its something flying in the sky or running underground, I will get it for you. Come,e, I need to bring my precious mother and wife home first. Li Maziughed contentedly.


    I clearly saw the same happiness on the shamans face and Chu Chus face.


    <em>Im sure Chu Chu thought there was nothing else she could ask for in a husband.</em>


    <em>And, Li Mazi surely had the same thought. With a wife like her, what more could he ask for?</em>


    After watching Li Mazis car leave, I felt tears lingering in my eyes.


    There are many kinds of love in this world.


    In some rtionships, you can use money to exchange love. In other rtionships, you can use your power to buy love. And sometimes, you could even use your beautiful face to earn love.


    But how long would these kinds of lovest?


    True love is when you could entrust your partner with your life. Its when you expect your partner to save you in the darkest moments of life.


    Whether youre rich or poor, happy or distressed, disabled or sick, as long as you call for your lover, your lover will be right beside you.


    Theres love to die for.

 Chapter 135: The Jade Thumb Ring

    Chapter 135: The Jade Thumb Ring


    That afternoon, Chuyi left with Zen Master Baimei.


    I was worried. Would the Thai sorcerere and take revengeter?


    Chuyi told me to ease my mind. The sorcerer had his own attack inflicted upon him because of the reversing witchcraft. If he didnt die, he was severely injured. His vitality was seriously damaged.


    In the following days, Li Mazi focused on taking care of Chu Chu. He became a stay-at-home husband.


    I also visited Chu Chu several times.


    She was a smart woman, and she soon learned how to surf the inte so she could y games while eating apple slices Li Mazi had prepared for her.


    She even learned how to act like a spoiled girl. Since she didnt like drinking the nutrient solution Li Mazi had bought for her, he had to hush her as if she was a little girl.


    The old shaman liked to sunbathe in the yard and her only entertainment was reading the newspaper. However, her greatest interest was telling Li Meng some ghost stories.


    Seeing Li Meng overwhelmed with surprise, I knew that the old shaman was a master at telling stories.


    I stayed alone in the antique shop, which would never be as lively and happy as Li Mazis home. That was why I often took Yin Xinyue to visit Li Mazis house for some meals. Li Mazi was a nice guy. Every time we visited them, he prepared a big table of food. Yin Xinyue was surprised and wondered since when had Li Mazi given up on his stingy habits.


    Although Chu Chu consumed a lot of meat every day, her figure was still slender. When there were no strangers around, Li Meng would just call her sister. She wasnt enraged by this. Instead, she joked andughed with him.


    Life was quiet and happy. If we didnt need to find the Night Dragon Bait, I would close my antique shop and move in with Li Mazis family.


    However, it was not my destiny to have a quiet life. One day, as soon as I returned from Li Mazis house, I found several beggars sitting by the entrance of my antique shop. They wore ragged clothes. There was a stretcher next to them carrying a fat man.


    I was puzzled. <em>What year is this? Why does the Beggars Union still exist? Are these beggars nning to wreck my shop or something?</em>


    Yin Xinyue was worried. Should we call the police? If they pester us, it wont be good.


    I looked at them and hesitated.


    When the beggars saw me watching them, they came to me and circled around me.


    I immediately pulled Yin Xinyue behind me. What do you want?


    Since they saw I was tense, they quickly said, Dont be scared. Are you the owner of this antique shop?


    Yes, its me. Whats wrong?


    I didnt expect what was going to happen next. After I answered them, they knelt, scaring Yin Xinyue.


    I couldnt help butugh. <em>What do they want to do? Will they make me the new leader of their Beggars Union and give me the Dog Beating Staff?</em>


    Boss Zhang, please, you must save my son! A beggar cried, weeping silently.


    Still puzzled, I lifted him up. What happened? Old man, please get up. Then we can talk.


    The old beggar got up and shoved a jade thumb ring into my hand. Boss Zhang, I know youre an expert and that you do otherworldly items trading. Could you please check if this jade ring is some sort of otherworldly item? My sons really miserable because of this.


    After learning that the jade thumb ring could be some otherworldly item, I retracted my hand as though I had just received an electric shock.


    <em>Before I became clear of the situation, I better not touch it!</em>


    I immediately invited them inside the shop.


    Looking at their tattered clothes, I couldnt help but frown. It seemed I couldnt earn a dime this time. These people looked really poor. They had patches all over their clothes and they didnt look healthy. Apparently, they couldnt feed themselves well.


    They lifted up the fat man and carried him into my shop. However, as soon as they entered the shop, the old beggar used a strip of ck cloth to cover the fat mans eyes.


    The fat man had a belly as big as a pregnant woman. His snores were as loud as thunder.


    What happened to this man? Why do you have to blindfold him? I was curious.


    I was a little worried that they were a professional team of swindlers. No matter what, their appearances were really suspicious.


    The old beggar waved his hand. Its nothing. You dont need to mind him.


    Seeing them avoid the question, I knew the situation wasnt simple. I determinedly asked Yin Xinyue to hide in the next room to make a video recording of the whole process.


    I gave them a Coke can each. However, I recognized that they secretly put the Coke into their pockets. No one drank a drop.


    I wanted to open my Coke but the old beggar stopped me. Im sorry but Boss Zhang, could you promise me one thing?


    While talking, he checked his wristwatch.


    I frowned, Whats that?


    The old beggar said nervously. My son is about to wake up! We only have a few moments left! When he wakes up, please do not mention eat or food in front of him. Please, do not let him see anything edible in your shop. Could you do me this favor?


    I was amused. It was the first time I had heard of such a strange condition.


    Its okay. How much could he eat? Its my treat, okay? You dont need to be this secretive.


    A young man sneered disdainfully. Im afraid you cant afford to treat him.


    As soon as the young man said that, the old beggar stopped him immediately. Er Kui, dont talk nonsense.


    The young man threw a discontented nce at the fat man on the stretcher. He stooped and said nothing.


    Since you havee to my shop, would you please tell me what happened? I forced a smile. I couldnt endure this curiosity of mine.


    Haiz. The old beggar wept silently. Check this jade thumb ring for me first! Tell me if you see anything wrong with it.


    Then, the old beggar gave me the jade ring. I didnt want to hold it so he directly ced it on the table.


    I studied the jade ring carefully. It was an authentic, real antique! The rings surface was shiny, smooth and tender. Although it had bright colors, I could see the very fine blood veins inside. This was an extremely precious sheep-fat rooster-blood jade thumb ring. In the market, it would be priced at least six zeros.


    Although he had such a precious treasure, his family was still reduced to this state. I felt a little sad.


    Anyway, thinking that this jade ring could be an otherworldly item, I immediately took a closer look. However, after using the magnifying ss to check it for quite a long time, I didnt find anything special.


    Feeling helpless, I couldnt do anything other than ask them a question. Sir, how did you conclude that this thumb ring is an otherworldly item?


    Without waiting for the old beggar to answer, the young man sitting nearby suddenly lifted his head. Crap, the hungry ghost woke up


    I turned to look at the living room. Indeed, that fat man was awake now. However, my scalp went numb as he immediately rushed toward the garbage bin in the shop and wolfed down the leftovers like a pig!


    How hungry could he be, to eat even garbage?


    The old man shrieked then rushed forward. He pulled the fat mans head out of the garbage bin. The old beggar casually took out a coil of steel wire from his bag and tied the fat mans limbs together.


    I looked at the steel wire that wrapped around the fat mans arm and felt distressed. Sir, what are you doing? Why do you torment this fatty? If you dont have money for food, I can buy him some.


    Food? I want food! The big, fat man howled like a pig being killed. Hurry, give me food. Im going to starve to death!


    I covered my mouth in regret. Id just mentioned the word food.


    The young man was angry and twisted a smile. Boom, its over. We cant stop this piggy now


    Er Kui, what are you talking about? Watch your brother, Im going to talk to Boss Zhang!


    The old beggar stood up and looked at me helplessly. His eyes were full of grievance and reluctance. I knew this was the heart of a father.


    Boss Zhang, we should talk inside. The old beggar pointed at the bedroom. Do not let Er Kui see us.


    I nodded. Alright.


    This family was mysterious. I didnt know what to think about them.


    After we were inside the bedroom, the old beggar knelt in front of me. He took out a bag from his chest and said nothing. In his bag were several neat stacks of money. They were worth at least one hundred thousand renminbi.


    I was stunned. <em>He has so much money but is still dressed like a beggar? He could fill this stomach until bursting with this money!</em>

 Chapter 136: The Odd Story of the Foodie Freak

    Chapter 136: The Odd Story of the Foodie Freak


    I hurried to pull him up. Sir, you shouldnt do that! Please tell me what happened first. Then I can see how I could help you.


    The beggar stood up. He sighed and took a quick nce at the howling fatty in the living room. He wiped his tears with the back of his hand.


    It turned out this jade ring was an heirloom in their family. He didnt know how many generations it had been with his family. ording to his familys rule, this jade ring was to be given to the oldest son when he got married. This ring was meant to keep the family safe and wealthy.


    It seemed the jade ring had worked well. Although their family wasnt the richest, they were famous and had status. They thought all the merits belonged to this jade ring.


    However, ever since the old beggar had given the jade ring to his oldest son, things started to turn abnormal.


    His oldest son was about to get married soon, which kept his family busy for several days in a row. However, they rarely saw him. Most of the time, he stayed in his room and no one knew what he was doing.


    The old beggar couldnt stand it anymore. How could his son just stay in his room and note out to see his rtives for his wedding?


    He kicked the door to his sons room open and got ready to pull him outside to give him a lesson.


    If it were any other day and his oldest son wanted to be a shut-in, hed let him off.


    However, it was an important moment, so the old beggar was really enraged.


    However, as soon as he stepped into his son''s room, he was petrified. His oldest son, a slim, young man, was nowhere to be seen. A fat man had taken his ce. His mouth didnt even rest while he was sleeping. He kept chewing on a big chunk of pork.


    The old beggar didnt even recognize him at first. If the face wasnt the same as his sons, he would have thought that a stranger had just broken into his house.


    The old beggar immediately woke his son up. Hey, what happened?


    Even though his son had always liked eating, he wasnt this fat.


    Yet, it hadnt even been three days and he had doubled his size. His head was as big as a pigs. As for his stomach, no one knew how much food was in there; he looked like a pregnant woman.


    As his father, the beggar was frightened and worried.


    His oldest son told him that he didnt know what had happened. When he woke up, he felt very hungry. He ate to fill his stomach then went to bed again.


    When he checked his big belly, he jolted back in surprise. The guy even wondered if this really was his body.


    As his legs couldnt bear the weight, walking was now a hard task for him.


    If the story were to spread, the other vigers would be scared. As such, the old beggar closed the door and refused to meet the guests. Then, he called his family members to gather in his sons room.


    After looking at the oldest sons new appearance, everybody was startled. His mother rolled her eyes and said, Look at you, how can you get married now?


    Without waiting for his fathers answer, the oldest son caught a glimpse of the leftover food from the pre-wedding party. He didnt say anything but jumped forward and dug in. No one could pull his head out of the food.


    Eight pork legs, a whole chicken, and a bucket of rice were finished in the blink of an eye.


    That amount of food could feed more than five men, and he had finished it all by himself. Moreover, he seemed to be addicted to food as he wanted to eat more.


    His family gawked in fright. He was so strong and they couldnt stop him! Eventually, they had to tie him up with a thick rope.


    However, the young man was now too strong. As soon as he saw food, he would just break the rope. Feeling helpless, his family had to use steel wire to tie him


    Since that day, as long as the oldest son saw food, he would risk his life to eat. Eventually, his family members didnt dare to eat anything in his presence.


    Without food, the oldest son became angry. He quarreled and shouted, which disturbed the neighbors.


    Later on, his family was desperate. They pretended to be a family of beggars that was too poor to afford food.


    After considering everything carefully, they concluded that it was the work of the jade ring heirloom.


    Before the oldest son had got into contact with that jade ring, he was just a normal guy. However, ever since he had touched the ring, he started to have these strange symptoms.


    The old beggar was a superstitious guy. He thought that there was some ghost in this ring.


    He visited several temples and monasteries, looking for help to deal with the spirit in the ring. However, it was useless.


    Even if the oldest son didnt have the ring on him, his symptoms didnt cease. He had eaten so much that he now barely looked human.


    Feeling helpless, the old beggar had to ask everywhere for help. Eventually, he learned about my ce and came to me.


    He was afraid that I wouldnt buy his story, so he showed me a photo of his son when he was still thin.


    After looking at the photo, I was startled. The man in the photo seemed gentle and was smiling brightly. He looked like a well-educated young man living in the countryside.


    And now, he was a pig. His facial features had all been affected.


    Id been running my shop for quite a long time. Yet, there were so many rare items I had never seen before. It was my first time seeing some otherworldly item that could make people fat.


    I remembered the grain pouch that made people die of starvation. But now, the jade ring in front of me would make people die of overeating. If the two items were put together, I wondered what the effect would be.


    Still, I wasnt sure that it was the jade rings doing. I thought it might be a coincidence since I knew several diseases that could make people fat in just a short time.


    Did you take him to the hospital to get checked? I asked the old beggar.


    The beggar stooped his head in distress. Weve visited more than ten hospitals, both big ones and small ones. Our familys savings are almost gone. However, the test results are quite simr. He has high blood pressure and diabetes because of his fat body. Besides that, hes quite alright and his body functions well.


    Actually, it wasnt a hard situation to solve.


    As I long as I knew what kind of otherworldly item it was, I could trace back to learn about its origin.


    Then I told the beggar, Sir, I can give this case a try. But Im not a hundred percent sure I can solve it. If I can solve this, I wont take any payment. You just need to give me the jade ring.


    The old beggar nodded. As long as you can solve this issue, I can give you my familys entire savings, let alone this jade ring!


    I told him to leave the ring and his oldest son in my shop tonight. I advised the others to stay in a nearby motel. Tonight, I would try to see what this jade ring could do and if I could get some clues.


    The beggar nodded immediately. However, he was worried that I couldnt subdue his son alone. Do you want to keep some men here to help?


    No need, I have an assistant.


    Of course, the assistant was Li Mazi. Li Mazi and I had a tacit understanding. Hed know exactly what I wanted him to do. I didnt ask him to help me kill ghosts or subdue the monsters. He just needed to assist me during the dangerous times.


    I called Li Mazi. However, he rejected my offer. I dont have free time. I need to take care of Chu Chu.


    I didnt push the matter any further. Li Mazi had a lot in his head to worry about for now. In case something dangerous happened while we were dealing with the otherworldly item, I was afraid that his home would be destroyed again.


    I couldnt do anything other than ask the beggar to leave Er Kui here with me.


    Er Kui was young and strong. He had been with the oldest son for quite a long time so he knew how to subdue the fat man.


    I asked them to help me move all the edible things out of my house, including the belts. I was afraid that when the man lost his mind in his hunger, he could even dare to eat the leather belts!


    Then, I went to the market to buy many mirrors. I wanted to hang big, small, round, square, and even full-length mirrors on all my walls.


    This method was called, Uncrossable Spirit-Expelling Mirror. It was really useful for seeing ghosts and it could push the spirits out of the otherworldly items. Moreover, I could arrange some small formation on the mirror to protect myself.


    As I was using cinnabar mixed with dog blood to draw the spells on the mirror, Li Mazi arrived. Seeing my empty room, he was taken aback. Whats going on Little Brother Zhang? Are you going to move out, or are you going to open a mirror shop?

 Chapter 137: Evil Fingers

    Chapter 137: Evil Fingers


    Stop talking nonsense! Dont you have to stay home to take care of Chu Chu? Go home. I dont need that many men here tonight. I will visit your house soon and we can drinkter.


    Li Mazi hesitated for a while. Im worried that something bad will happen to you.


    Then came a long moment of silence.


    I quieted down. I didnt expect that Li Mazi, a clumsy and sloppy guy, could have such morals at a critical moment like this. Left with no choice, I let Li Mazi stay.


    No matter what happened tonight, I thought I was well prepared. With Li Mazi and Er Kui here, I was certain that there wouldnt be any unexpected problems!


    I quickly exined the situation regarding the beggars oldest son to Li Mazi. His jaw dropped in awe.


    Hey, I suddenly remembered the grain pouch. If we didnt sell it and this damn fatty got ahold of it, would he have stopped eating? If the two otherworldly items cancelled each other out, perhaps this damn fatty could have gotten better, Li Mazi suggested.


    Er Kui was irritated that Li Mazi kept referring to his brother as the damn fatty. He rolled his eyes at Li Mazi. My brother is fat. So what? Did he eat your stuff or wear your clothes? You shouldnt go too far.


    Li Mazi now recognized they were brothers. One was strangely fat and the other was like a stick. This significant difference made Li Maziugh.


    Er Kui was even more annoyed. He jumped and was prepared to attack Li Mazi. I had to walk forward to separate them.


    Er Kui felt his teeth itch with rage. However, he refrained himself because I was there.


    At this moment, the fat man was sleeping soundly in the living room. He looked like a fat pig that snored in his sleep.


    I brought Li Mazi and Er Kui to the sofa. We sat down and waited.


    I asionally talked to Li Mazi and checked the mirrors. If some otherworldly item was pestering the fat man, it would be shown in the mirrors.


    However, as time ticked by, my heart began to worry!


    It was strange that the mirrors didnt reflect anything. Moreover, even if there was wind, none of the mirrors moved.


    I vigntly checked on the sleeping fat man. He was still slumbering. Er Kui was dozing off with his head on the sofa. Li Mazi was ying games on his phone.


    Everything looked normal as it should be.


    However, since it was so normal, I had a bad premonition.


    I lowered my voice and called Li Mazi. Li Mazi, dont you feel anything strange?


    Li Mazi put his phone down and looked at me cluelessly. What could be strange?


    Did you feel a gust of wind? I asked.


    Li Mazi nodded and said, Yeah, I did. What about the wind?


    Why didnt the mirrors move?


    Well, it could be a light wind and the mirrors are heavy? Li Mazi answered.


    Oh. Then I scanned the walls. I still had doubt in my mind. Eventually, I stopped and looked at the jade thumb ring.


    The ring was ced on the tea table in front of us. It looked like an ordinary essory. I picked it up and studied it. Nothing was strange. I ced it back on the table and turned to look at the sleeping fat man, deep in thought.


    He was still sleeping sweetly and soundly.


    Yet, I couldnt calm down!


    I could conclude that something was wrong but I didnt know what the problem was.


    Then, I walked towards the fat man and heartlessly pped his face. However, he didnt react. He still slept soundly.


    I couldnt do anything else but call for Er Kui. Er Kui was the same. He was sleeping in a slumber deeper than anybody else.


    Li Mazi, somethings wrong! I screamed at Li Mazi. Stop ying with your phone and wake them up!


    Li Mazi turned to look at me with an impatient face. Then, he continued to y with his phone.


    Li Mazi! I screamed one more time.


    This time, he didnt even turn his head to me and continued to y with his phone.


    <em>Holy moly, I know something is happening! This is not Li Mazis usual behavior! Usually, when he senses danger, he will jump and hide!</em>


    I took a deep breath and was prepared to take down all the mirrors in the room.


    It seemed I had brought a big rock and dropped it on my own feet.


    I had set up the Uncrossable Spirit-Expelling Mirror but it had been in vain. And, it seemed my formation had facilitated the thing in the ring, like pouring more water to a fish. I had to take these mirrors down as fast as possible.


    However, before I could reach the mirrors, a big beam of light shone right at my eyes. The light blinded me.


    I was startled and quickly covered my eyes with my hands.


    However, right at this moment, the strong light vanished. When I opened my eyes to look again, I didnt see my reflection in the mirror. Instead, I saw fingers! A lot of fingers!


    Those fingers appeared one after another and covered all the mirrors!


    At a distance, they looked like countless wiggling worms that could get out of the mirrors at any second!


    My vermiphobia was awakened! I instantly had goosebumps all over my body.


    I immediately turned around and tried to run away. However, as soon as I turned around, I saw that the main door of my antique shop was now a giant mirror. It touched the ceiling, which reflected countless fingers that were trying to reach me.


    I took a deep breath. I couldnt believe that everything I was seeing was real.


    <em>What should I do? Where could I escape to?</em>


    Instinctively, I touched the Sirius Whip on my waist. I felt that the thing hiding inside the jade thumb ring was about to show itself


    However, at this moment, I suddenly felt something squishy getting inside my pants. Whatever it was, it was gently touching my thigh.


    I jolted back in fear. I stooped and saw many fingers crawl out of the mirrors. They were like a rising tide swarming toward me.


    Thousands of fingers wanted to bury me!


    I was scared out of my wits. I screamed then jumped onto the sofa, kicking Li Mazi in the process.


    I knew he wasnt Li Mazi


    After my kick, Li Mazis body shattered like a pile of sand. His body fell to the ground and turned into a heap of bleeding fingers.


    <em>Can someone tell me what the heck was going on here?!</em>


    I gawked and dropped my jaw in fright. All the fingers started to creep toward my feet.


    Leaving me with no choice, I took out the Sirius Whip andshed at these fingers!


    Apparently, all the fingers in front of me were just a hallucination. My whip could actually turn them into a pile of mush. However, more fingers kept on generating from the mirrors. If I kept whipping them, I could only take care of the top but not the root of the problem.


    I had to find a way to break the mirrors!


    In such an emergency situation, I bit my middle finger and smeared my blood on the Sirius Whip. Then, I tried my best tosh the mirror in front of me.


    I didnt expect it to work for real. The bloodstained whip created a narrow path amidst the sea of fingers.


    I didnt hesitate and directly jumped into the path, forcefully hitting the mirror with my whip.


    Shortly after, I broke the mirror. The countless bloody fingers that were underneath my feet were gone.


    When I broke the final mirror in the room, all the fingers vanished. The room was restored to quietness...


    I supported myself by cing one hand on the wall. I gasped for my breath. Then, I turned around to check on the fatty and the other men.


    The situation in front of my eyes was disperate.


    The fat man was like an enraged boar that pinned Er Kui on the ground. He had bit and torn Er Kuis clothes. Right now, he was about to bite Er Kui by his throat!


    Er Kui didnt have the strength to resist and was lying on the ground. His bloodshot eyes gazed at me while some hoarse sounds escaped from his throat. Help Save me


    <em>Shoot, that crazy fat man now wants to eat human flesh! He wont even spare his own brother!</em>


    I immediately stormed forward and kicked the fat man aside.


    I saw the steel wire on the ground. He had broken the steel wire to escape!


    My n had failed. I knew I couldnt stop the fat man alone. Immediately, I dialed the old beggars number and asked him to send his people to clean up the mess.


    The fat man gazed at me greedily. His mouth was bloody because he was chewing something. I could hear his chewing and swallowing sounds.


    I then looked at Er Kui and felt dizzy.


    Er Kuis forefingers were bitten off. His white bones were exposed. Blood streamed from his wounds. In a horrible agony, he couldnt stay conscious.


    Li Mazi? Li Mazi? I now remembered Li Mazi. I didnt know what Li Mazi was doing. Then I saw him crouching in the corner of the sofa.


    Curiously, I went to him and patted his shoulder. Li Mazi turned around to see me.


    I wished that he didnt turn around. As soon as he did that, my entire body chilled, and I shook in fear.


    Li Mazi had his forefinger in his mouth. He sucked and chewed on it as if he was eating a lollipop. His finger was now a mess of flesh and bone, ready to be bitten off! However, it seemed like he didnt feel the pain as he was grinned at me.


    I shivered in fright!


    If something bad happened to Li Mazi, how could I answer to Chu Chu and Li Meng? I didnt hesitate and hit Li Mazi in the face with the Sirius Whip!

 Chapter 138: The Whole Family Went Missing

    Chapter 138: The Whole Family Went Missing


    Li Mazi screeched then fell to the ground. He rolled in pain while holding his hand.


    I finally heaved a sigh of relief. He was back to normal


    Then, the door of the antique shop was pushed open. The old beggar and his wife rushed in. After seeing the horrible situation, they screamed then looked at me bewilderedly.


    I was annoyed. What are you looking at? Hurry,e and help me!


    They finally reacted and tried to control the fat man. What happened?


    The thing inside that ring is really fierce. I cant deal with it. The people here are all hurt. Hurry, take them to the hospital. Then, I lifted Er Kui, supported Li Mazi and got in the car.


    Then, I asked the beggar to stay in the shop and watch over the fat man. He was scared but agreed to do it.


    When we arrived at the hospital, Er Kui was awake. As soon as he saw that his fingers were gone, he screamed and shouted like crazy.


    The doctor had to inject sedatives in him to help calm him down. Eventually, they took him to the operating room.


    Li Mazis injury was not really that bad. After he got several stitches, he was alright.


    I felt bleak and sat on the bench. It was a hard blow to take!


    I never imagined that my careful preparations would only result in a devastating ending.


    <em>Whats hiding in that jade thumb ring? How could it be so fierce?</em>


    After thinking about this, I felt restless. I had left the beggar and his wife to take care of the fat man in the shop. Would something dangerous happen to them? What if someone died? How would I face their family then?


    The more I thought about it, the more anxious I became. I made up my mind and returned to the shop shortly after.


    I originally wanted Li Mazi to stay at the hospital for one night. No matter what, he should recover from the injury before he was discharged. However, Li Mazi couldnt ease his mind. As he was worried about me, he insisted on returning to the shop with me.


    Sure enough, when we returned to my antique shop, we discovered that something had happened!


    The lights in the antique shop were still on, but the shop was deadly silent. There was nomotion or sound. I stood outside the shop and looked around. The beggar and his wife were nowhere to be seen.


    It was very strange. Where were they?


    Obviously, since his fat son was unstable, the beggar couldnt just leave.


    I had a bad premonition. I stood at the door and said, Sir, are you in there?


    There was nothing but dead silence.


    I nced at Li Mazi. Li Mazi was also scared and said, Did the old couple go to the hospital to look for us?


    That fat guy could turn crazy at any moment. Do you think they could go to the hospital?


    What if they took a taxi? Li Mazi insisted. I think we should get back to the hospital!


    No. I immediately rejected his proposal. What if the old beggar encountered some danger? I cant just stand around and watch them die!


    I took a deep breath then took out the key to open my shop.


    The moment the door clicked open, I was frightened and shuddered. My back was damp with sweat.


    The shop was empty. The family of three were nowhere to be seen. I looked at the middle of the room, where the tea table was. I had left the jade thumb room on the tea table. The entire table was now covered with some thick, slimy liquid which looked really disgusting.


    That liquid substance seemed erosive as it had eroded many small holes on the ss surface and the stic parts of the table.


    <em>Is that slimy thing sulfuric acid?</em>


    However, the faint smell of rotten fish in the room suggested that it wasnt sulfuric acid.


    I carefully took a bucket of water and started to clean the slimy liquid on the table. It was simr to snot, which made it difficult to clean it thoroughly.


    <em>What is this sted slime? Why it is in my shop in the first ce?</em>


    <em>Where did the beggars family go? Were they dissolved by this horrible slime?</em>


    This thought made my scalp numb in fear! Then I remembered Er Kui, who was still in the operating room at the hospital. This was terrible, he could be in danger too!


    After considering this possibility, my face paled. I told Li Mazi to wait at the shop then rushed to the hospital.


    Fortunately, a doctor at the hospital told me that Er Kui was undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit. He had non-life threatening wounds, which they had controlled.


    I exhaled a sigh of relief and decided to go home and investigate on the slime.


    However, a panic-stricken nurse ran to us from the Intensive Care Unit. She stuttered and told us that the patient who had lost his fingers had disappeared.


    <em>What? A grown-up man, in broad daylight, has disappeared from the Intensive Care Unit?</em>


    I was taken aback and asked the nurse to take me to the Intensive Care Unit to see.


    Indeed, Er Kuis bed was empty.


    Whats going on with this hospital? My friend just disappeared right in front of so many people? How do you treat the patients here? I was infuriated and poured my anger out on the doctor.


    The doctor and the young nurse couldnt exin the situation. No matter what, the Intensive Care Unit waspletely isted from the other wards and there was no window. The entrance was a steel door that required the staff to swipe their ID card to enter.


    I asked them to quickly find the patient. Feeling mentally and physically exhausted, I returned to my antique shop.


    When I entered the shop, Li Mazi walked forward to wee me. Seeing his shocked face, I knew something had happened!


    Little Brother Zhang, the table has been eaten Li Mazi stammered when he saw me.


    What? I dropped my jaw and thought that I had just misheard something.


    My eyes were still wide open while Li Mazi exined to me that the stic and ss tea table from the living room had been dissolved by the bizarre slimy substance. Nothing was left behind.


    What the heck was that slime?


    It was a big table. How could it have been melted that fast?


    The fat mans appetite had strangely increased and he wanted to eat everything in his reach. Could this be rted to this slime?


    This family hade to me under strange circumstances and now they all mysteriously went missing. During the whole process, even though I wanted to help, I couldnt do anything but watch them get harmed. I was really sorry.


    And now, I was confused as to whether I should continue with this case or not.


    At this moment, I understood the situation much better than anybody else. If I gave up, it wouldnt have a thing to do with me. No one was alive to tell, and I couldnt even find their corpses. The police wouldnte to me.


    But if I just ignored the case like this, wouldnt I owe the old beggar?


    What about my promise?


    The more I contemted, the more uncertain I felt. I sat absent-mindedly in the living room and looked idly at the disgusting slime.


    I asked Li Mazi, What should we do? Should we just ignore them or continue to investigate?


    Li Mazi hesitated for a while then asked me, Dont you otherworldly merchants have a rule? Either you dont start a case, or you have to pursue it for a lifetime!


    I looked at Li Mazi. You mean We should continue?


    Li Mazi nodded.


    Alright. I nodded. The faith in my heart was restored.


    However, what should we do next?


    All the people involved in this case were missing. The jade thumb ring had also gone missing. We had no clue so we didnt know where to start.


    Eventually, Li Mazi suggested, What about investigating this familys origin? We can go to their hometown to check!


    I remembered the old beggar had stayed in a nearby motel. The motel must have their names on the registry.


    I wasted no time and brought Li Mazi to the motel. After we got their information from their ID cards, we got in our car.


    The old beggars hometown wasnt far from us, which was around four or five hours of driving. After driving through a muddy field, we reached a small town by a river.


    This small town looked old. Everywhere we looked were advertising boards about dried stinky tofu and farm eggs.


    Although it was broad daylight, no one traveled on the streets. The entire town felt somewhat humid and damp


    This atmosphere made my heart more restless and anxious

 Chapter 139: The Face In The Well

    Chapter 139: The Face In The Well


    I went to a house in the town and gently knocked on the door.


    The door opened shortly. An old man wearing protective gear looked at me and Li Mazi with surprise. Who are you looking for?


    Excuse me, does Liu Laogens family live in Taiping Town? I asked with a smile.


    The mans face changed. Why do you want to see Liu Laogen?


    Ah, we are his distant rtives. He called us to visit him and help him with some stuff here, I answered.


    The other looked pensive then said, Oh. Several days ago, Liu Laogen brought his family and left Taiping Town. They havent returned. You should call him!


    Then, he closed the door. He didnt give us a chance to continue the conversation.


    <em>Liu Laogens family has gone missing and they havent returned to this town... Where could they have gone? Were they really eaten by that horrible slime?</em>


    I decided to go to his house and see.


    We asked for directions and found a vi, which was typical in this countryside area. It was a high-rise building. Spring couplets were pasted on the door. In this small town, this family was rich.


    However, the building was dark and gloomy, and I felt heavy pressure!


    I could even feel the inexplicable amount of moisture in the air. If I ced a tissue on the ground, it would be wet within minutes.


    I knew this vi was strange so I didnt dare to go inside. Not at this moment, at least. I peered through the window to observe the inside of the house.


    The chairs and tables inside were arranged neatly. It didnt look like a suspicious ce.


    <em>Thats weird. In that case, where is this strange auraing from?</em>


    While I was puzzled, a bubbling sound arose from a well near the vi. It was as if someone had boiled a big wok of water and didn''t watch over it, letting it burn until all of the water evaporated.


    The gurgling sound echoed unceasingly. Water spurted up like a tide then shrank back.


    We searched everywhere but couldnt find anything. And now, we were able to get a clue without doing anything.


    The origin of this strange atmosphere was the well!


    I immediately walked towards the well and observed it. However, it was pit-ck down there and I couldnt see anything.


    Lucky for us, Li Mazi had brought a shlight. I took the shlight from him and adjusted the brightness to the maximum setting. Then, I shone it right into the well.


    I was shocked and almost fell into the well!


    A big, swelling, ashen face was down there. It packed the entire well. Its facial features werent clear and it looked like a crumpled dough. Yet, I could still tell that it was looking at the light from my shlight. It gazed at me greedily.


    <em>What the heck is that thing?</em>


    I leaned against the wells walls and gasped for my breath. I needed to calm down.


    This strange, big face was the key to this case! If we knew its origin, we could find Liu Laogens family. I had to think of a way to fish it up!


    However, when I shone the shlight again, the big face was gone. I guessed it had sunk back to the bottom of the well.


    I discussed things with Li Mazi and we decided to find the town official for help. This well was really deep. The two of us couldnt get that monstrous thing out by ourselves.


    However, when the town official heard that there was a big, white face in Liu Laogens well, he was frightened to no end. He didnt want to go there and check, let alone take the thing out of the well.


    Feeling helpless, I couldnt do anything else but tell him, That thing could make a difference to Liu Laogens entire familys lives.


    The town official didnt have any other choice. He found some ropes and hooks then called several young men to go with us to the well.


    However, when a young man was about to throw the hook into the well, a stream of water spurted and fumed right at his face. Then, we all heard an angrily growl as loud as thunder.


    The strange growl that came out all of a sudden had petrified people on the spot. They exchanged looks then instantly screamed, The monstersing!


    The town official didnt have any color left on his face. Shivering, he pointed at me and said, Boy, tell me honestly, what is in this well? Why is it still alive? You shouldnt think about fishing that monster out. We must fill and level this well. If the monster gets out, our Taiping Town cant live in peace


    I got a headache and I wanted to exin my reasoning to the town official.


    However, their subconsciousness had assumed that there was a monster in the well. They wouldnt listen to me.


    This wells an antique of Taiping Town. Ive heard that its dated back to the Song Dynasty The town official drew a cigarette. Ive had my doubts about this well. Its abnormal. A old witch had passed by and told me that this well contains a monster. However, it belongs to Liu Laogen. I couldnt touch it. And now, as Liu Laogens entire family has been killed, we should fill this well to prevent future trouble!


    If you fill the well, what will happen to Liu Laogen? I said, Can you just stand and watch as Liu Laogens family is never found?


    Hmph! We will report Liu Laogens family situation to the police. You dont need to worry about that!


    Eventually, the town official shooed me and Li Mazi out of Taiping Town. He warned us that we shouldnt put our noses into this.


    I shook my head in distress and looked at the small town. I had a feeling that those vigers knew something. Otherwise, they wouldnt have just stood and watched an entire family die.


    The vigers knew something and if they didnt want to tell us, it wasnt good to chase them


    But it wasnt in my nature to ignore people. I made up my mind, and I wanted to ask the vigers what had really happened.


    I told Li Mazi my thoughts about the situation. Li Mazi shook his head. Little Brother Zhang, you shouldnt act recklessly. Those vigers could beat us to death.


    So, tell me, what should we do? I sighed.


    Eventually, Li Mazi decided to sneak into the town and probe around. There was nothing in this world that money couldnt help with.


    I couldnt do anything else but entrust my hope in Li Mazi. I hoped that he could find something useful.


    Of course, it wasnt convenient to work during the day. After sunset, Li Mazi quietly entered Taiping Town. I waited in the car and unknowingly drifted into sleep.


    Not long after I had slept, I was awakened by a chilly wind. I opened my sleepy eyes and found something wrong. I had locked my doors and windows. How did the winde in?


    I returned to my senses and turned around to check. Then I was shocked!


    All the doors and windows were open. Gusts of chilling wind blew through, which made me shiver in the cold.


    I quickly checked everything. The locks worked well and there was no trace of intruding.


    <em>What happened Did a ghost break my doors?</em>


    I carefully observed my surroundings and found many bloody fingerprints on my windows and windshields. There were even some crooked traditional Chinese characters.


    Dont meddle with others business! Get lost!


    After seeing the words, I was startled and quickly got out of the car.


    However, everything around me was quiet. The only noise was the howling northern wind.


    While I was puzzled and didnt know what to do, a man was secretly approaching me from the town. When he came closer, I recognized he was Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi came to me, still flustered.


    Are you okay?


    He then lifted his head while gasping for his breath. He was about to tell me the details.


    However, as soon as Li Mazi lifted his head, he was dumbstruck. It was as if a lightning strike had just struck him. His eyes gazed at my fingers. He was scared and his voice trembled. You Who are you?


    Have you gone mad? I couldnt help but scoff. Im Zhang Jiulin!


    Y-Your thumb Thats the jade thumb ring! Li Mazi stuttered.


    I stooped my head and checked. I was even more shocked.


    My right index finger had a jade thumb ring on it! At first look, it seemed the heirloom of Liu Laogens family.


    <em>Who put this ring on my index finger?</em>


    I cursed and quickly tried to remove it.


    However, the jade ring seemed to be stuck on my finger. I couldnt take it off.


    I cursed in distress then found a hammer in the trunk. I tried to break the jade ring. However, the fine-looking jade ring was really tough. No matter how hard I tried to hammer it, it wasnt even scratched.


    I rolled my eyes. This jade thumb ring was actually an otherworldly item, which was really bizarre. Since it was pestering me, would I be a foodie like that fat man?

 Chapter 140: The Odd Story of the Tai Sui

    Chapter 140: The Odd Story of the Tai Sui


    I decided to put this matter rted to the jade thumb ring aside for now and asked Li Mazi, What information did you find?


    Li Mazi was nervous. I didnt get any important clue, but I saw something very abnormal!


    "Oh? What is it?


    The four members of Liu Laogens family are back. Li Mazi lowered his voice. Theyre in their vi.


    What? I was startled. Hurry, take me there to see them!


    Li Mazi immediately stopped me. Dont. Do you still want to live? I think we should discuss things first.


    I caught onto his serious tone and knew the situation wasnt that simple. Why do you say so?


    Liu Laogen and his family brought a lot of pork heads and legs, cakes, and all kinds of fruits to the leveled well. They banged their heads to worship the well. They pounded their heads hard. Blood was everywhere. While doing that, they were also wolfing down the food. There were around five strong men who tried to stop them but they couldnt do anything. They have scared people out of their wits.


    That otherworldly item has affected his entire family? My brows mmed together.


    Right. Li Mazi nodded. That damn fatty was enough to give us a headache. And now, all four members of his family have be foodies.


    Thats not good. We should go there and see. I pondered then said, If we cant beat them, we can run away. We have the car, anyways.


    When Li Mazi got in the car, he saw the fingerprints on the windows. He was scared and shivered. Little Brother Zhang, what happened to the car windows?


    I cant exin in a short time. Ill tell youter.


    Then, I stepped on the throttle and drove directly to Taiping Town!


    Fortunately, when we got to the town, Liu Laogen and his family were still there.


    They knelt by the well and used their dirty hands to pick up the pig heads and legs. They shoved the meat into their mouths. I looked at the old beggar, who was vomiting while trying to shove more food into his mouth.


    Although they were acting very strangely, their neighbors did not seem to bother with the situation; they didnt even stop to look at them.


    I understood that the people here knew the Lius were in trouble, but no one was willing to help them. It seemed Liu Laogens family didnt have a good reputation in this town!


    I walked over and found the old beggar and his wife gnawing on the pork legs while Er Kui and his fat brother respectfully kowtowed in front of the ancient well with regretful faces.


    I didnt hesitate and pat Liu Laogens shoulder. Sir, wake up!


    It seemed it wasnt going to work, so Li Mazi directly took the Sirius Whip from my hand. He wanted to whip Liu Laogen in order to wake him up, but I hurried to stop him.


    If we used the Sirius Whip, we might provoke the thing inside the well. Then, we wouldnt be able to control the situation anymore.


    So, if we could use gentler means, it was better to do so!


    I grabbed Liu Laogen, and I hacked at his nape with my hand. It was a good method to wake people up from illusions.


    However, it seemed they werent affected by an illusion. It was something in their bodies.


    While I was scratching my head to think about a possible solution, Liu Laogens family stood up and was about to leave.


    There was no more time. If we let them leave, we wouldnt be able to find themter.


    Helplessly, I used the Sirius Whip, coiling it around Liu Laogens neck as I tried to pull him back.


    However, Liu Laogen was really strong. When he moved forward, I was dragged along together with the whip. In desperation, I couldnt do anything else but ask Li Mazi to help me tie the Sirius Whip to the iron gate.


    Liu Laogen was so strong that he eventually broke the iron gate. His face was pale and he seemed to be only one breath away from suffocating.


    I was really worried and afraid that he would be killed here.


    While I was hesitating on whether to let go of the Sirius Whip or not, a roar came from the ancient well. I could even see the ground by the well lifting up a little bit. However, everything resumed normal shortly after.


    After Liu Laogen spurted ck blood, he feebly crouched on the ground. He cried and wept.


    I let out a slight sigh. Liu Laogen had gotten rid of the control of that damn thing.


    It better not to stay here for a long time, so we hurried and put Liu Laogen into the car then left.


    When we reached a rtively safe ce, I asked Li Mazi to stop the car. Panting, I turned to look at Liu Laogen.


    Liu Laogen rubbed his round belly in agony. After quite a long time, he finally got a hold of himself. Then, he burst out crying and screeching.


    I shouted, All right, stop crying! Did you raise anything under that well?


    Liu Laogen was bewildered. Then, he pped himself several times. Ive sinned! Ive sinned!


    I knew something was wrong here. Liu Laogen, what happened?


    Liu Laogen wept then told me the whole story from start to finish.


    Everything had started with Liu Laogens ancestor.


    Liu Laogens ancestor was a young schr in the Song Dynasty. One year, his hometown had to endure a horrible drought where all the fields had dried. A liter of water was priced more than one copper coin.


    The schr only had one bottle of water left. It was so precious that he wouldnt drink from it even though his mouth was dry of thirst.


    However, on the way home, he found a round Tai Sui [1] dying on the road. It was about to die of thirst.


    The nice schr didnt think much but poured half of his precious water bottle into the Tai Suis mouth. Then, he left with a smile.


    The Tai Sui he saved had actually developed intelligence. To repay this favor, the Tai Sui came to him in his dream.


    It told the young schr that it had been living for quite a long time in his ancient well. Tomorrow morning, it would give him a precious jade thumb ring for him to take.


    The Tai Sui also made an agreement with the young schr!


    Every month, the young schr would bring fish and meat to feed the Tai Sui in the well. In return, it would let him cut a piece of its flesh to sell for money.


    The Tai Suis flesh couldnt be bought with thousands of gold. It was a valuable treasure since ancient times.


    ording to the ssic of Herbal Medicine, Tai Sui and fleshly spiritual mushrooms were good for the body because it nurtured the qi and cured all kinds of illnesses. If people used them for a long time, they could live a longer and healthier life.


    The schr was very happy. When he woke up the next morning, he found the jade thumb ring by the well in his house.


    The Tai Sui had always kept its agreement. Every month it would float up from the ancient well and let the schr cut its flesh to sell for money.


    Slowly, the schr became a rich man in his town. The Tai Sui was well-fed and continued to live in the well.


    Before he died, the schr told the agreement to his family members and asked them to feed the Tai Sui well. This was the key to ensure the prosperity of his family.


    Since they had the Tai Sui, the schrs family didnt need to work or worry about making ends meet. They had a life without worries.


    However, during Liu Laogens generation, the situation changed dramatically.


    Liu Laogens family was too greedy. After they cut the first piece of Tai Suis flesh, they immediately wanted a second piece, and then another. They sold the Tai Suis flesh and bought a vi and cars. This family of four had be a family of parvenus.


    However, they were still not satisfied. Eventually, they decided to kill the Tai Sui and dismembered it into pieces, which they had exchanged for stacks of money. They had ignored the agreement their ancestor had told them to keep.


    Anyways, the Tai Sui was a monster who had been cultivating for more than a thousand years. How could it be killed that easily? The Tai Sui was resentful for what Liu Laogens family had done to it. So, it possessed the oldest sons body and crazily ate to get more nutrients in order to grow a new body


    After listening to his story, I had an urge to punch him.


    If it werent for the otherworldly merchants rule, I would have left already!


    1. A fleshy mushroom in Chinese legends.

 Chapter 141: Sirius Defeating the Tai Sui

    Chapter 141: Sirius Defeating the Tai Sui


    I nced at Liu Laogen. I thought that you were a pitiful family, but Id have never thought that you were all greedy bastards! Theres a proverb that says that not all poor people are saints, and it turned out to be true. If you want to live, you should ask the vigers for help. Otherwise, even if you had ten of me, I still couldnt save you!


    Liu Laogen hesitated. His face bowed down in defeat.


    Our reputation in this town isnt good. Weve done a lot of unkind things. Im afraid the vigers dont want to help us.


    I kicked him in rage and Liu Laogen finally gave in. All right, all right, Im going to call them here right now!


    It waster than midnight when Liu Laogen knocked on every door.


    Eventually, he had gathered arge group of vigers. I had a strong feeling that Liu Laogen had used money to bribe them.


    He brought the group to me and asked, What should we do next?


    We have to dig up the well and fish up the Tai Sui. We have to subdue it.


    The vigers grabbed their shovels and hoes and started to dig up the ancient well.


    It wasnt a small task that could be done in one night. However, since Liu Laogens familys lives were on the line, I had to ask the vigers to work harder.


    Actually, it was dangerous to provoke this thing at this time. After midnight was always the time of thickest resentful energy.


    The vigers were also scared, and no one wanted to dig the well further. Liu Laogen had to throw ten thousand renminbi out before two young men volunteered for the job.


    Around 4 AM, they had reached the bottom of the well. Slowly, water oozed up from the muddy ground.


    We heard a gurgling sound. Instantly, the muddy ground underneath their feet subsided. The two young men screamed in fear. They shouted and asked us to pull them up.


    They huddled together and crouched on the ground, gasping for their breath. Whats that thing below? How can it push through the soil like that? Is it a monster?


    Iforted them. Its all right. Use the rope to hoist the Tai Sui up.


    As soon as the Tai Sui was hoisted up, the temperature of the entire town dropped sharply. A strange wind blew over which made people shriek in fright.


    The Tai Sui didnt look nice at all.


    It was translucent and meaty, just like a massive jelly. On the squishy, white flesh grew a human face with a nose, a mouth, and eyes


    Although the facial features werent clear, it was definitely a face!


    The vigers were fearful, and they retreated from the vis area.


    After seeing the folks leave, I hurried to call them to stay. We still need your help. Please dont leave. I will ask Liu Laogen to double the payment. Hell pay you directly after were done here.


    I was also scared. However, I was the key force now. If I showed that I was scared, everything would be over.


    After hearing my voice, the vigers calmed down.


    Actually, I didnt want to ask them to do anything else besides stay here. I just wanted to use the Yang energy from their bodies to prevent the Tai Suis resentful energy from taking over!


    To prevent someone from leaving stealthily, I gave Li Mazi a look. Li Mazi nodded and closed the vis gate.


    The moment the gate was closed, the Tai Sui roared. The roar was so loud that everyones ears hurt.


    This time, the vigers couldnt stay calm. Their fear instantly overcame them as they retreated to the corner. If Li Mazi hadnt closed the gate, they would have immediately evacuated.


    <em>I must show them that Ive got things under control!</em>


    I know youre resentful, but you cant just take their lives! I thundered.


    Then, Ished the Sirius Whip on that face.


    The moment the Sirius Whip hit the Tai Suis face, it emitted a high-frequency shriek, which made my heart shiver.


    At the same time, I felt something from the jade thumb ring on my index finger. It was tightening around my finger and absorbing my energy!


    The moment I realized this, I felt scared because I would need a lot of power to wield the whip.


    I knew if things continued this way, we would fail.


    Only the first seven attacks of the Sirius Whip would work well. After the seventh attack, it wouldnt have any more power, which would make it no different from an ordinary whip. I had alreadyshed it four times. If I were to whip it seven times without much progress, it would be very difficult to defeat the Tai Sui. I couldnt do anything else but stop and ask the vigers to bring me a ck dog and two roosters.


    I killed the animals then poured their blood on the Sirius Whip.


    <em>Life and death will be decided now!</em>


    If I failed, the jade thumb ring would be able to control me and make me a fat foodie.


    I gritted my teeth and gathered my strength. Then, I raised the Sirius Whip high andshed the Tai Sui three times!


    After the first whip, the Tai Sui produced a high-pitched screech. Everyones mind shivered, and people couldnt hide their panic-stricken faces.


    Liu Laogen couldnt endure the sound attack. He covered his ears and rolled on the ground.


    After the second whip, my momentum didnt weaken. However, the Tai Sui had produced an even higher-pitched shriek.


    Some vigers couldnt endure this torment. They lost their minds and ran around. The others tried to hold them down, but they opened their mouths and tried to bite them back.


    I shuddered. It was just a shriek and it could confuse peoples minds and make them crazy.


    If the Tai Sui used its full power, it wouldnt be hard to imagine the consequences


    I immediately shouted, QUIET! CALM DOWN! You must capture those insane people and stop them from harming themselves. Guys, repeat after me. Were going to chant some sacred text. It could stop that thing.


    Then, I started to read the sacred text of Daoism Chuyi had taught me.


    The sacred text of Daoism worked. When the whole group of people chanted the text, the Tai Sui was scared. This time, its scream didnt follow any rule. It was the monstersst struggle.


    I gritted my teeth and gathered thest bit of my strength. I forcefullyshed the whip on the Tai Suis face.


    After my full-powersh, the Tai Sui fumed ck smoke.


    The ck smoke didnt cause any harm and it vanished shortly after. The scene resumed its quietness, with everybodys eyes glued to the Tai Suis body.


    Li Mazi quickly rushed forward to support me.


    I could feel the jade thumb ring loosening on my finger. My power wasnt being absorbed any further. I knew we were almost done here.


    "Burn it!


    I forcibly took the jade thumb ring off my index finger and shoved it into the Tai Suis body.


    The vigers brought gasoline and directly sshed it on the Tai Sui. Then they lit up the fire.


    The Tai Sui was being burned by a high me of four or five meters. I could see a vague shadow struggling inside the me


    Indeed, the monster had intelligence. It wanted to flee to the well and hide there. However, I had already used the roosters blood to draw a line to stop it.


    Shortly after, the Tai Sui was burned down. It was dead and had turned into a pile of ash.


    I let out a slight sigh. I turned around and didnt care about Liu Laogen and his family.


    I knew I was wrong in this situation.


    To save a bunch of human beings who deserved to die, I had killed a good monster that had always kept its part of the agreement.


    But I had to do that because I was also a human!


    The Tai Suis mistake was that it had only remembered receiving precious water that year and it didnt know the nature of human beings.


    Humans are all greedy. You give them a piece of meat, they will want two. You give them two pieces, and they will raise their butcher knife on you.


    Since the day it made that agreement, the Tai Sui was doomed to suffer this fate.

 Chapter 142: The Old Man Who Has Returned From the Dead

    Chapter 142: The Old Man Who Has Returned From the Dead


    After that case, I didnt do business for half a year.


    Autumn and winter were off-seasons. Otherworldly items had a habit of hibernating which meant they wouldnt create bigmotions. That was why this was also leisure time for me.


    Yet, the Night Dragon Bait was still on my mind. Although Chuyi had told me that everything depended on destiny and chances, how could I stay idle? It was the remedy that could save Chu Chu and the old shaman!


    As I didnt have anything to do, I drove to remote viges in the mountains to collect local cultural materials.


    Yin Xinyue often stayed with me as we were now officially a couple. However, I still hadnt met her parents.


    Every time I mentioned that I should meet her parents, she would find excuses. I wondered what she was thinking.


    I guessed she was worried that her parents wouldnt like a small antique businessman like me.


    I thought it was time to do some changes. I couldnt stay in a small, tattered shop forever. It wouldnt be fair or nice to Yin Xinyue.


    Anyway, since the Night Dragon Bait was some sort of top treasure, it wouldnt be easy to find. I had spent half a year trying to find information but I still didnt have any clues


    Li Mazi and Chu Chu also saw my efforts. Chu Chu had even secretlye over and said to me, You shouldnt go out to find that Night Dragon Bait. I know its very precious, and Im afraid that we wont be able to afford it, even if we do find it.


    I just smiled. You shouldnt be overthinking it. You have to rest well to recover quickly.


    Eventually, the bitter cold December came, and after the Lunar New Year, I got a valuable clue!


    A rare and strange incident had urred in a remote vige in Sichuan.


    An old man hade back from the dead and he had a Night Pearl in his mouth. This Night Pearl didnt just shine at day time but it also emitted light at night. It was very strange.


    The folks there said that it was the Night Pearl Empress Cixi used to have.


    The reason I had got wind of this was my neighbor down the antique street. There was a very enthusiastic Sichuan shop owner who often visited my shop for some chit chat.


    When I got the news, I was really excited. I had a premonition that the shining Night Pearl could somehow be rted to the Night Dragon Bait. Perhaps, it was the Night Dragon Bait itself!


    I asked for the address then told Li Mazi that I wanted to go there.


    Li Mazi was excited. He wanted to drive his car and travel. However, Chu Chu was bored at home alone and wanted to travel with us to experience new things.


    Li Mazi couldnt feel at ease if Chu Chu had to stay home alone, so he agreed to take her with us.


    The old shaman had returned to Baisha Vige. She enjoyed a quiet life without high waves or strong winds.


    We dressed really warm while traveling. However, the further South we were, the hotter it had be. When we arrived at Sichuan, Li Mazi and I only wore short-sleeved t-shirts and jeans.


    We didnt expect the weather to be so nice. All the thick, fur coats we had brought along were useless now.


    When we arrived at our destination, Li Mazi and I brought Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu to a hotel in the town. Then, we walked to the mountainous vige.


    It wasnt that we didnt want to drive our car, but the vige was sandwiched in the valley and motorbikes were the only vehicles that could reach it.


    I thought it would be too dangerous to ride a motorbike on that steep mountain path. So, we walked up there.


    Sichuan had so many mountains. The road we were walking on was also a difficult journey. We had almost tripped many times. I could only imagine howborious it was for the people who had worked on the road!


    Eventually, we reached our destination. We made it to Qingshan Vige.


    We arrived at Qingshan Vige when it was almost night time. I checked my mobile phone and saw that my phone had no signal. I had wanted to call Yin Xinyue to tell her that I was fine.


    We walked into the vige and asked about Liu Fuguo, the man who had the Night Pearl in his mouth.


    However, as soon as we mentioned Liu Fuguo, the vigers showed their disdainful faces. They told us that Liu Fuguo had moved out of the vige already.


    Why did he want to move out? I was a little disappointed.


    A viger coldly waved his hand. Who are you? Why do you want to know about Liu Fuguo? I dont know. You should leave.


    We asked several people and they all showed us indifferent attitudes. They did not seem willing to help.


    I knew Liu Fuguo had done something that had caused people to feel disdain.


    The vigers explicitly expelled us. If we continued to pursue the case, I was afraid that we would enrage them! But if we just left like this, I wouldnt be satisfied at all. We had traveled all the way and even climbed the mountain to get up here.


    What should we do? I asked Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi smiled. Its easy. Then, he took out a lollipop and took me to the entrance of the vige and waited.


    Not long after, a group of boys headed toward the vige. They hopped and walked happily. It looked like they had just got off school.


    Li Mazi walked forward and stopped the boys. He smiled like a strange uncle. My little friends, I have some lollipops here. Do you want them?


    The boys were smart enough. They didnt take the bait but dismissed Li Mazi and ran away like bees fleeing from a broken hive.


    Li Mazi was enraged. After looking at the backs of the kids that ran away, he was so angry he could kill someone. I forced a smile. Its not easy to deceive kids nowadays. Their teacher must have told them every day to not talk to strangers. It would be weird if they took your lollipops.


    Feeling helpless, Li Mazi and I had to find a spot to hide in.


    If the folks here didnt want to tell us, we would have to figure it out ourselves


    If a man came back alive after being buried, something odd must have happened. As long as we investigated, we were bound to find something.


    I decided to go to the viges graveyard to check which grave the old man had crawled out of.


    Shortly after, we found the local graveyard. It was on a small mountain. In this area, the burial method waspletely different from the Northern area. In the North, they would dig a cave in the mountain nk, put the coffin in, then seal the cave with several t stones. However, the small tombstones here were much more exquisite than in the North.


    It seemed this mountain was a ce to bury people. We saw a lot of graves there. We had to check each of them to find the one we were looking for.


    However, before we were able to check half of the graves, it becamepletely dark. It was so dark that we couldnt even see our own fingers.


    It wouldnt be good to wander around the graveyardte at night. I told Li Mazi to leave. We wille back again tomorrow.


    While leaving, we felt a strange gust of wind blowing behind us.


    I sniffed and was shocked. I recognized the stench of corpses rolling with the wind!


    This shouldnt be happening because all the graves were sealed tightly in the caves. We had just checked the graveyard and did not find any newly buried corpses.


    <em>Where did that corpse stenche from?</em>


    I didnt think much of it. Iforted my nerves and told myself it could be some dead cat or dog. It wasnt that strange.


    However, I then heard rattling footsteps amidst the wind. Someone was following behind us. They were walking at a calm pace.


    I turned my head and saw a figure descend the stairs. It was around fifty meters away from us and was heading down the mountain.


    It was reallyte at night and we were in the middle of a graveyard. Why would someone be here? Li Mazi was scared and said, Is that a walking corpse?


    I shook my head. If that was a walking corpse, the corpse couldn''t have got out of the sealed grave that easily.


    We continued to walk and ignored the person that was following us. When we stopped walking, the person had also stopped walking. That person had always kept a certain distance from us.


    A momentter, Li Mazi couldnt suppress his fear. He turned and screamed at the figure. Hey, who are you? Why are you following us?

 Chapter 143: The Two Hell Banknotes

    Chapter 143: The Two Hell Banknotes


    Im delivering rice to the dead, that person answered with a cold voice.


    After hearing him talk, I exhaled in relief. The undead didnt talk. I concluded the other person was a living human being.


    When we reached the foothill, I wasnt in a hurry to leave. I found a ce to hide.


    This was because I doubted the other person was a tomb-raider. Who woulde to the mountain to deliver rice in the middle of the night?


    We watched the person walk directly into Qingshan Vige. He pushed a door open and entered a house.


    I was relieved. It seemed I was just overthinking. The person had really gone up to deliver some rice. Perhaps it was some strange custom of this vige that we outsiders werent aware of.


    Li Mazi and I started to return to the hotel.


    When we returned, it was almost dawn. Since we were worn out, we fell asleep not long after we reached the bed.


    When we woke up in the morning, Yin Xinyue had already bought breakfast. She bought Sichuans specialty, sticky rice cakes. We finished the simple breakfast then prepared to go to the vige one more time. Out of the blue, Chu Chu asked, Where did you guys go yesterday?


    "Oh, to the vige, Li Mazi answered.


    Did you provoke anybody? Chu Chu had a serious face.


    No. I asked, Whats wrong?


    Yesterday I think I spotted someone following you two, Chu Chu answered. And you had something adhered to your back. I didnt tell you because I was afraid that you wouldnt be able to rest wellst night.


    My brows arched. Someone was watching us... and something was stuck on our backs? What was it?


    It could have fallen on the bed. You should check for yourself.


    I ran toward the bed and lifted the bedsheet.


    Indeed, I found two hell banknotes on the bed!


    Big, red words were written on the papers. It read, Hell Banknote. [1]


    I widened my eyes. I almost tripped and had to reach the wall to support myself.


    Damn, we were being followed yesterday. That person had stuck the hell banknotes on our backs but we didnt even notice! My heart started to race.


    <em>Who was following us?</em>


    I suddenly remembered the guy who was delivering rice. <em>Did he doubt us and follow us to our hotel?</em>


    <em>But even if he did follow us, why would he want to stick the hell banknotes on our backs? What did he mean by this?</em>


    Thump! Thump!


    However, right at this moment, someone knocked on our door. My nerves immediately went tense. I was now panicking and was prepared to view anyone as my enemy.


    I walked to the door and looked through the peephole. I saw a hotel attendant standing outside. However, he looked a little suspicious.


    I opened the door. Hello, is there anything you need?


    The attendant waved his hand. Sorry, there was a guest checking out. I was here to check if this was the room.


    Then, he prepared to leave. His face looked frightened.


    From his facial expression, I knew something was wrong. I stopped him and pulled him into our room. Boy, Ill give you one minute. Be honest and tell me the truth!


    Li Mazi saw my strange behavior and cooperated with me tacitly. Boss, what if he doesnt tell us the truth?


    Our normal rule. We take his leg, I said.


    The young attendant gave in to our gangster tactics immediately. He quickly begged us and said, Boss, forgive me! I coincidently found a streak of blood on the peephole of your room. Thats why I was a little curious. I thought a guest had carelessly smeared ketchup on it.


    <em>What?</em>


    I frowned and ran to check my door.


    Indeed, there was a red streak at my doors peephole. There was also some dabs of unknown, brown-yellow liquid substance that had blended with the blood.


    My heart raced frantically. I knew this blood streak was left by the person who had followed usst night.


    I recalled the odd man who was watching us. My heart shivered!


    I picked up a bit of the substance, rubbed it, and put it under my nose. It was stinky; it had the stench of a corpse. The yellowish substance was like the purge fluid that had oozed from a dposing corpse.


    Carefully, I asked Li Mazi to check it. After he checked it, he turned to me with a pale face. Shoot, its the purge fluid!


    I immediately regretted bringing Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu here. Since our whereabouts had been disclosed, Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu couldnt stay any longer


    I suddenly realized that the man that was delivering rice yesterday couldnt possibly have been a human. He was a corpse.


    Otherwise, why did he speak so strangely?


    And why would the wind carry the stench of corpse?


    My body chilled from top to toe. I was puzzled. <em>Why did that thing stalk us?</em>


    Yin Xinyue, Chu Chu, how about you girls leave this ce first? Theres a possibility that danger is everywhere. If you stay here, there could be more trouble, I suggested.


    Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu didnt want to leave. I knew they were worried about us.


    I didnt have any other n, so we had to find a new amodation. Li Mazi and I then prepared to go to the vige one more time to see the graveyard. We had to learn about the odd things that were there.


    After yesterdays experience, we didnt walk to the vige. Instead, we rented two motorcycles to take us there. The round trip didnt cost more than fifty renminbi.


    I tipped them another fifty renminbi and asked about Liu Fuguo.


    However, as soon as the motorcycle driver heard the name Liu Fuguo, he looked at me with his questioning eyes. What do you want to do here?


    We are Liu Fuguos distant rtives. He hasnt contacted us for a long time. Now, we havee here to see him.


    The man bought our story. However, he still gave us some advice. Youd better not get close to that jinx. Otherwise, youll be unlucky


    Then, the two riders left.


    I was even more surprised. <em>What has Liu Fuguo done and why doesnt anybody want to get close to him?</em>


    I looked back at the drivers but didnt call them back. Li Mazi and I directly entered the vige.


    As soon as we got to the vige, we saw a group of people gather at the entrance of a house. They were whispering and discussing something.


    I carefully looked around and learned it was the house of the man who hade to the mountain to deliver rice fromst night. Did something happen to his family?


    Li Mazi and I rushed toward the crowd. I asked a viger, What happened in this house?


    The folk then studied us. Who are you? Why have youe to Qingshan Vige?


    After learning from the previous experience, I didnt dare to mention the name Liu Fuguo. Were traveling but I think weve lost our way.


    The man frowned. I remember there were two sneaky strangers that came to our town yesterday. Werent they the two of you?


    Li Mazi waved his hand in denial. No, no, youve got the wrong guys.


    The viger then showed us the way. Oh. Follow this road straight to the East. Go along the mountain trail. Then youll get to the town.


    <em>Oh, they are sending us away, are they? Should we leave or not? If not, what excuse could we use to stay that wouldnt make them doubt us?</em>


    However, all of a sudden, the folk ignored us and called over our shoulders. Damn, the jinx is back. Guys, leave. Hurry!


    <em>Jinx? What does he mean?</em>


    I followed his eyes and saw a young and weak boy. He wore ragged clothes and carried a shoulder pole. His eyes were listless.


    After seeing him, all the folks instantly dismissed it. It was as if they were afraid that something very unlucky would follow them.


    I also realized that these vigers were here to watch the corpse inside the house!


    The corpseid t on the ground and wore burial clothes. His limbs were all stiff. Waves of diposing stench exuded from him.


    I found this corpse familiar.


    Then, I had a sudden sh and felt frightened. This corpse could be the person that was following usst night!


    While I was contemting this, the young man with the shoulder pole knelt in front of the corpse and started to whine.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hell_money

 Chapter 144: The Jinx

    Chapter 144: The Jinx


    Li Mazi and I stood there awkwardly and wondered if we shouldfort the young man or not.


    Hello, do you know Liu Fuguo? I asked carefully.


    Hearing my question, the young man stopped crying. He lifted his head and looked at us in puzzlement. Who are you two? Why do you want to see my father?


    <em>Hes Liu Fuguos son!</em>


    I quickly told him, Theres something we need to talk to you about. Could we go inside and talk?


    If we stayed outside, someone would likely eavesdrop on us.


    The young man shook his head. No, its not convenient. Youll get hurt. If you have something you want to say, just say it. Afterward, you should leave quickly.


    Were here to help you, I told him. Have you encountered anything strange these days?


    The young man was tense. Are you the police?


    I smiled and shook my head. No.


    Are you here to help me? Who sent you?


    You dont need to worry about that. Li Mazi gave him five hundred renminbi. This will help you.


    Seeing five one-hundred-renminbi notes, the young man was excited and looked at them for a long time before carefully pocketing the notes. He said excitedly, Brothers, please wait for me. After I bury my dad, I will tell you all the details.


    Then, he lifted the corpse and headed to the mountain.


    My mind was clouded.


    <em>They said that old Liu Fuguo hade back from death, didnt they? Why is he a corpse now?</em>


    <em>Why did his corpse appear in his house and arouse the curiosity of the vigers?</em>


    <em>The corpse ran back home?</em>


    Then, I remembered that we were stalked yesterday. I felt a chill creep along my spine.


    After looking at the young man struggling to carry the body up the mountain, I knew something fishy was there. I decided to go up to the mountain with him.


    The young man looked at us coldly. If you dont mind getting bad luck, you can follow me.


    Then, he ignored us and continued to go up the mountain.


    <em>What does he mean? Getting bad luck? Where does the bad lucke from?</em>


    Since this was rted to the welfare of Chu Chu and the old shaman, I didnt care about bad luck and followed the young man to the mountain.


    I watched the young man try his best to carry the corpse while struggling many times. I wanted to help him. Although carrying the corpse wasnt something good, I sympathized with him.


    But the young man didnt like it. He kept shouting that we shouldnt touch the body.


    I gave up on trying to help.


    The young man took us to the mountain and stopped in front of a cave grave.


    We were surprised to see that this cave grave looked much moreplex than the other graves we had seen before. There were several,yered stones that sealed the cave. However, all of them were pushed aside. I even saw a thick iron chain that was the size of a human wrist. It had been pulled broken at the entrance


    These stones must be very heavy. Unless someone used dynamite, they couldnt be pushed open that easily.


    Who had broken through this grave?


    The young man knelt in front of the grave and mourned. It was heartbreaking to watch. Since I was there, I couldnt hide my worries and sympathy.


    After crying, the young man moved the broken stones aside and pulled out the coffin from inside the cave.


    The coffin lid stayed open. I saw fingernail scratches on the coffin. Seeing this gave me a feeling that this corpse had crawled out of the coffin


    Although I had guessed the situation earlier, I was still fearful after seeing it with my own eyes.


    I took a deep breath. I nervously studied the coffin and the corpse on the ground. Little brother, is it convenient for you to tell us your story?


    The young man lifted his head upward and wiped his tears. Wait a moment. I have to seal my father. Otherwise, a great cmity would follow.


    Then, he ced the corpse into the coffin and carefully closed the lid. He pushed it back into the cave grave and sealed the entrance.


    After everything was done, he stretched his sore back. He looked at us and apologized. Im so sorry. You had to wait for me for quite a long time.


    I was actually scared and felt the hair on my nape stick up.


    I had observed all the moves the young man had done. He seemed very skilled. It had frightened me because I realized it wasnt the first time he had done this. This corpse hadnt just run away one time.


    <em>So theing back from the dead event that the shopkeeper from Sichuan had told me about was this...?</em>


    This guy couldnt rest even when he had already died. It was the worst torment to a person!


    The young man pounded his head several times to bid his father farewell. Then, he took out a shiny bead from his pocket and carefully ced it on the stone in front of the grave. Afterward, he asked us to leave.


    I became excited. That bead must have been the thing the corpse kept in his mouth. Was it the Night Pearl?


    After thinking about this, I walked forward. I was ready to pick it up to observe it.


    However, as soon as I reached my hand out, the young man stood in front of me. He was enraged like a wild beast. What are you doing? Do you still want to live?


    Its all right, I answered, feeling flustered. I just want to see what it is. I think its the key to this problem.


    Dont act rashly, the young man said. If you touch it, youll die.


    I couldnt do anything else but retract my hand.


    I was unable to tell what the bead was made of. It looked translucent as if it was made of somemon jade. Except for theplex patterns on the surface, it didnt have any other attractive feature. It wasnt Empress Cixis pearl.


    This bead You found it in your fathers mouth? I asked cautiously.


    The young man said, Lets go. We must leave this ce. Hurry, we will talkter.


    He looked really worried. He seized each second as he pushed us to leave the mountain.


    Feeling helpless, we had to follow him and leave.


    When we were midway down the mountain, the temperature suddenly dropped sharply. This was strange. The birds and animals on the mountain seemed to sense something as well. They fled and ran away in hordes. The atmosphere was really depressing.


    We ran to the foothills. The young man couldnt get a hold of himself and was still scared. He decided to leave the vige with us.


    Why arent we going to your house?


    The young man exined, My house isnt safe and the folks wont let me stay there.


    Why wont they let you stay there? Its your hometown. I was surprised.


    The young man sighed but didnt answer.


    Right at this moment, someone opened their door. After they saw the young man in the vige, they were enraged and yelled at him. Youjinx, you think you havent harmed us enough? Get out!


    The young man smiled then left with an aching heart.


    When we arrived at the town, the young man brought us to a small restaurant and invited us to dinner. He ordered three bowls of beef noodles with extra meat for me and Li Mazi. He didnt add meat for himself.


    After looking at the slimy noodles, I didnt have any appetite.


    The young man didnt mind that and wolfed the food down as if he was a hungry tiger that hadnt eaten anything for days.


    Soon after, he had finished his big bowl of noodles.


    I gave him my bowl as well. He was a little shy but still took the bowl.


    After filling his stomach, the young man looked somewhat lost. He told us he hadnt eaten anything for two days and that he had forgotten his manners in front of us.


    Its okay. Lets go, where is your ce? We will talk there. I smiled at him.


    The young man was embarrassed. He blushed and told us that he had been sleeping on the street. The folks didnt let him stay in the vige and he didnt have money. He had be a beggar that lived on the street.


    I felt sad for him. How could those folks treat a teenager like this?


    I immediately invited the young man to stay with me and Li Mazi in the motel.


    The young man awkwardly waved his hands in denial. Im dirty. I dont want to dirty your ce.


    Its okay, boy. Iforted him.


    The young man was still a little hesitant. Arent you afraid that I will curse you with bad luck?


    Iughed. I work in this business. What kind of bad luck would I be afraid of?


    The boy nodded and returned to the motel with us.


    However, when he saw the clean andfortable room and the two beautifuldies inside, he blushed and stood by the door. No matter what we said, he refused to go inside.


    Yin Xinyue recognized that the boy was belittling himself. She directly walked over, pulled his hand, and rubbed his head. Little boy, what are you afraid of? Quick, have a nice shower and change into some clean clothes. Just consider me your sister.


    The young man burst out crying and ran out of the room.


    Feeling helpless, Li Mazi and I had to chase after him.


    What are you doing? I smilingly asked him.


    The boy felt embarrassed. The two sisters are too nice to me. Im not used to it.


    I felt stuck. How had this boy been living? What had made him belittle himself to this point? Li Mazi and I booked another room for him. We then sat together and talked.


    Since we were the only people in the room, the young man finally rxed and told us his story.

 Chapter 145: The Escape of the Undead

    Chapter 145: The Escape of the Undead


    This young man was an orphan. His mother had passed away when he was young and his father, due to pressures of life, had joined a band of tomb robbers and disappeared. The young man was raised under the support of the vigers. To him, being able to fill his stomach was already the happiest thing in the world, let alone going to school.


    When he grew up, he started to cultivate the poor fields of the family in order to make ends meet.


    He thought thatter on in life, he would marry a nice woman and together, they would grow crops and feed livestock.


    However, he never would have thought that his father would return home one day. Thispletely overturned his quiet life.


    It was reallyte that day. He heard a knock on his door. An old voice called his name from the outside.


    The young man was bewildered and walked to open the door.


    Standing at his door was an old man wearing worn-out clothes. He looked gory and his face had a horrible scar. After his opaque eyes saw the young man, his spirit was boosted. He grabbed the young mans hands and said excitedly, Son, is that you?


    The odd old man had scared the young man, who hurried to close the door to keep him outside. However, the old man didnt care. He aggressively stormed in and dered, Im your father!


    The young man was really frightened. He observed the old man for a while then finally came to the conclusion that the old mans appearance was really simr to his own!


    He didnt have a deep impression of his father because his father had left him when he was still a child.


    Themotion from the young mans house had alerted the neighbors. They hurriedly checked on him and determined that this old man was indeed the young mans father!


    At the time, the vigers still treated the young man well. Since they knew he was poor, they supported him by giving him food to feed his father.


    The young man watched his father. In his heart, his emotions were mixed. He didnt know how to treat his father.


    They had spent that awkward night without speaking to one another


    The young man had to take care of the cows during the day. He was already exhausted when he got back and quickly drifted into sleep.


    When he woke up, he found his father sleeping next to him. A letter was ced on the table.


    Since the young man couldnt read, he gave the letter to his neighbor to read.


    His neighbor was shocked after reading the letter. It was a testament made by the young mans father!


    The letter stated that if the young boy had received the letter, it meant his father was already dead. The father had asked his son to bury him in a vertical position. The instructions were to use peach wood stakes to pin his fathers limbs and heart, then bury him on the highest mountain.


    After the burial ceremony, his father would give him a small gift. But the letter didnt mention what the gift was.


    However, I vaguely guessed that the mentioned gift was the Night Pearl.


    The young man gawked in shock. He hurried home and found that his father was not breathing! However, he didnt know why his father had wanted him to torture his body in such a gruesome way.


    Although the young man wasnt well-educated, he knew that it wasnt good to treat his fathers body like that. Perhaps, if he did that, his father would never be able to reincarnate.


    That''s why he didnt follow his fathers instructions and just buried him


    However, the same night, some bad events happened!


    At first, the roosters in the vige started to crow veryte at night. In daylight, people saw that their poultries were missing. Some dogs had been killed at their ce with their bellies torn open.


    At first, the vigers thought the wolves came down from the mountain and wreaked havoc in the vige. They didnt really care too much about it. However, as time went by, more and more poultries died and disappeared. People in the vige then formed patrolling teams to guard the vige at night.


    The patrolling team saw something thatpletely changed the young mans life!


    They saw the young mans father walk down from the mountain and knock on his door.


    The young mans father was still wearing burial clothes and his body exuded the horrible smell of a dposing body. His eyes were wide open, but he looked like a moving corpse that didnt have a soul.


    Then, they saw the young man walk out of his house with his head held low. He was following his father.


    In front of the patrolling team, the two sneaked into a house and started to swallow the chickens alive!


    The members of the patrolling team had almost wet their pants. They knew it was the act of a zombie. Early the next morning, the entire vige heard of the incident.


    The vigers came and arrested the young man. They asked him why he had done that. When the young man learned that his father hade to see him and took him to eat live chickens, he was baffled.


    But when he saw his deceased father on his bed, he had no choice but to believe in what the others had told him.


    It seemed the vigers were right. He had slept with his fathers corpse for one night.


    The young man was terrified; he begged the vigers to help him bring his father back to the coffin. To prevent his father from getting out of the grave, they ced many big stones to cover the cave in hopes of keeping the corpse inside.


    The young man was also worried that he would sneak out unconsciously to eat the neighbors poultries again. He tied himself up and closed his door from the outside.


    However, their preventive measures didnt work. His father had mysteriously pushed all the big stones aside and got out of the cave grave.


    Early the next morning, the young man found his father lying at his door with his mouth open. In his mouth was the bead.


    The young man was helpless. He brought his father back to the coffin, put his coffin to the grave and worshiped the bead in front of his grave. This time, he used more stones to seal the grave. Then, he left to find some expert to help him with his fathers case.


    The folks in the vige noticed that everything resumed to normal when the young man wasnt around. His fathers corpse didnt descend the mountain and they didnt lose their roosters or ducks anymore. The quiet daily life in the vige resumed.


    They didnt know when it started, but the people in the vige had started calling the young man jinx. They even med him for his father''s death. Though his father was already dead, he couldnt close his eyes and came to his sons door every night.


    The more the rumor had spread, the crueler the vigers became. Eventually, they didnt let the young man stay in the vige any longer. The young man didnt want to cause more problems for his vige, so he decided to leave on his own.


    After he had left, the viges life had returned to its normal state.


    However, when we came to the vige, the corpse had descended the mountain again. No one dared to touch the corpse. Because of this, they had sent the young man a message to return home and fix the problem.


    Then, the young man arrived and met us. We already knew everything that happened after that.


    After listening to him, Li Mazi and I were surprised.


    Now, my biggest doubt was what the young mans father had wanted to do. What did he mean by that testament?


    <em>Why did he want his son to pin him with peach wood stakes?</em>


    <em>What was the bead he had in his mouth? Why did he want to give it to his son?</em>


    I was astonished and looked at the young man. If we want to solve this case, Im afraid we will have to follow yourte fathers testament.


    The young man stooped and wept silently. I knew he wasnt willing. However, we didnt have any other option. Otherwise, the consequence would be even more serious!


    Li Mazi and I talked the young man into the n. Since he was helpless, he could only nod.


    I guessed that the young mans father had known he would be a zombie when he left his son his testament.


    I had to know what the bead could do.


    I suddenly remembered something. When the young man was a child, his father had left him to do some tomb-robbing. Young man, do you know what your father did when he was alive?

 Chapter 146: Nail The Stakes, Grave On The Grave

    Chapter 146: Nail The Stakes, Grave On The Grave


    The young man said, My father told me that hed been robbing tombs for years. That bead was part of the wealth he had umted over the years. He left home that year to seek for it.


    I was confused. Robbing tombs wasnt the right way to be rich. Yet, it was enough to help someone have a middle-ss life. But if his father had been working like that for years, how could he end up in such an impoverished state? What he had saved was just a in-looking bead.


    I had a feeling that the bead must be priceless.


    I asked the young man, Could you get some expert to check the bead? Im not familiar with tomb-robbing, but I think that bead has something to do with this.


    The young man hesitated for a while then gave us a nod. I dont know what to do. If you think its important, you should take it. Before you leave, I hope you will nail my father with peach wood stakes as he had wished


    I patted his shoulder. Dont be too sad. The saying that the deceased wont reincarnate if the body is stabbed with peach wood stakes is just a superstitious belief.


    The young man sighed and said, I hope so!


    After pondering and piecing together theplicated geographic conditions in the area, I finally understood why his father had wanted to do that.


    Chuyi had taught me a lot about geomancy setups. I remembered one called, Nail the stakes, grave on the grave.


    Nail the stakes meant using the peach wood stakes to nail the corpse. Grave on the grave meant that there were more graves underneath this particr grave.


    The young mans father had wanted to have his grave on the highest mountain, which also meant he wanted his grave to press on the other graves, giving birth to endless resentful energy.


    Furthermore, this resentful energy would all aim toward the young mans father.


    At the same time, if he was nailed with the peach wood stakes, his soul wouldnt be able to reincarnate. This kind of torment wasnt hard to imagine


    Unless he had a masochistic tendency, I didnt know why he had left a testament that said to torture his dead body.


    After we returned, the first thing we did was visit the grave. We had prepared the peach wood stakes. As the young man had requested, we would nail his father first, which would prevent him from getting out of the grave and disturbing the folks.


    After we figured out how to deal with the bead, we would help his father ascend.


    However, when we returned to the vige, we found many vigers surrounding the young mans house.


    I was tense. <em>Did the corpse run down from the mountain again?</em>


    The young man shouted and dashed into the crowd.


    However, after he got through the crowd, he was petrified. He asked the vigers in a trembling voice, Whats going on?


    I knew the situation wasnt what we had imagined. I quickly squeezed into the crowd.


    Then, I looked at the young mans house in shock.


    There were two dead people in his house. They were two strangers.


    The two strangers wore coarse, ordinary clothes andid in their own pools of blood. They looked scary, with their mouths still open. Several holes were on their necks. Blood was still oozing and gurgling out of them.


    The young man was scared and stepped back. Guys, who are they? Why did they die at my doorstep?


    A dark-skinned viger asked him, Boy, you dont know these two people?


    The young man shook his head. No, how could I know them?


    The viger looked pensive. Then, he said, They came down from the mountain. When we heard them screaming, we came here to check. We saw them stumble down the mountain. A shadow was chasing after them. However, it was too far away so we didnt know if it was your father that was chasing them.


    But we saw them holding the Night Pearl. The shadow took the pearl, then left. These two then staggered to your house and died at your doorstep


    They came to steal the pearl? The young man was startled.


    The viger nodded. Perhaps. Otherwise, why would theye to this remote ce thiste in the night?


    Hmph! The young man fumed. They deserved that! Did they think they could obtain the bead that easily?


    I squatted and gently lifted the hem of the corpses shirt.


    Li Mazi came over and asked, Little Brother Zhang, what are you doing?


    I took a deep breath. Look at this


    Then, I took something from the corpses waist and handed it to Li Mazi.


    It was a metal tool that could adjust its length to be longer or shorter. Its head was some sort of a curling shovel. I knew it was a type of shovel.


    Li Mazi also recognized the tool. He was taken aback. A shovel? This bastard is a tomb raider?


    Right! I answered resolutely. I think I know whats going on.


    The young man was stirred up and said, Brother, what happened here? Could you please tell me the details?


    I smiled mysteriously. Its not good to disclose secrets here. Folks, you should leave! We will handle things here. Nothing like this will happen again.


    The vigers couldnt ease their minds. Who are you? How can we know you will keep your promises?


    This young man has invited me here. I specialize in dealing with these supernatural events. Give me one week. Im sure I will solve everything thoroughly by then.


    The vigers wanted to see the exciting events unfold and didnt want to leave. When I told them that their Yang energy  the energy from living human beings  was so thick that it could cause the corpse toe back as a zombie, they retreated immediately.


    After all the vigers left, the young man closed his door. He asked me nervously, Should we call the police? Some people died here. This is big news. If we cant solve this, everybody will be put in jail!


    Of course we have to call the police. However, now is not the time.


    The first thing to do now was to figure out why these two were killed here and why they wanted to steal the bead.


    I suspected that these two dead men knew the young mans father. I also suspected that the bead had some kind of effect on tomb raiders like them.


    Unfortunately, they were dead. We couldnt ask them anything.


    We carefully examined the dead bodies. Eventually, we found several photos. There were three people in the photos. The two dead people stood on the sides, while the young mans father stood in the middle!


    Behind them was a mountain. They stood by a pit, which was obviously a tomb they had dug up.


    This photo must have been taken at the tomb raiding site.


    The young mans father did know these two. From their close proximity in the photo, I could tell they were close.


    I showed the young man the photo.


    He silently cried and looked at his father in the photo.


    The people in the photo had dirt and mud all over their bodies. There were dried buns and pickles on the ground in front of them. I had to admit, they were really struggling.


    After looking at the photos for a while, the young man wiped his tears. Then, he suddenly scrutinized the photo.


    I had a feeling the young man spotted something strange. What is it?


    The young man sounded nervous. Brother, look inside the cave. Whats that?


    "What?"


    I raised my brows, took the photo, and looked at what the young man was pointing at.


    Next, I was scared and shivered!

 Chapter 147: The Grave-Digging Scale

    Chapter 147: The Grave-Digging Scale


    A humanoid figure was crawling out of the cave they had dug open. Something sparkled in his mouth. It was the rumored Night Pearl.


    I then recognized the humanoid thing was actually a very old, dried corpse.


    <em>A dried corpse that could still move!</em>


    The dried corpse and the young mans father had ended up in the same way!


    The bead they obtained from the dried corpses mouth was apparently an extremely malicious otherworldly item. I guessed that the reason why the young mans father had be a walking corpse was because of that bead


    Li Mazi checked the photo then said, How many people do you think were in their team?


    The young man didnt hesitate and said, Three.


    I shook my head. No, not just three.


    The young man was astounded and looked at me. But there are only three people in the photo.


    If there were only three people, then who took the photo? I smiled.


    The young man became anxious. Then where is the person who took that photo? Is he waiting somewhere nearby to ambush us?


    I became tense immediately. All the answers we needed were with the person who took the photo. No matter what, we needed to find him. However, my phone suddenly rang. I took it out and saw that Yin Xinyue was calling me.


    I hit the answer button. Whats up, Yin Xinyue?


    A rude voice answered from the other side. Wheres Liu Fuguos son? Let me talk to him!


    Hearing the rude voice, I was bewildered. I immediately understood what was happening. Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu were in danger right now!


    I fumed and said, Who the heck are you? Im warning you. If you touch even a strand of hair on the two girls, I wille up with a hundred ways to take your life.


    The man thundered and said, Put Liu Fuguos son on the phone!


    I turned on the phones speaker and handed the phone to the young man.


    The young man was scared and gasped. The man sneered. Do as I say. Or else, you will no longer see the girls.


    The young man panicked. Dont! We will listen to you. We will. Please, do not harm thedies!


    Good, very good. The man roared withughter. Now, take the Grave-Digging Scale from your fathers mouth and hand it over to me. You have one hour. If in one hour I do not see the treasure, I will push these two women off the motel.


    Youre crazy! I bellowed in rage. Let me hear them! I want to make sure theyre safe and sound!


    Youre so annoying. The man scoffed then said, Scream something for him to hear


    Yin Xinyue said feebly, Brother Zhang, dont dont worry about us


    Shut up. The man pped Yin Xinyue then hung up the phone.


    Li Mazi was so angry that his blood boiled.


    His love for Chu Chu wasnt shallower than what I had for Yin Xinyue.


    Sigh, we were too careless. We were too focused on the walking dead and had left the twodies in the motel.


    I wanted to go back and save them. However, after thinking about the so-called Grave-Digging Scale, I hesitated.


    If we didnt bring the Grave-Digging Scale to exchange for thedies, would the other person really push Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu off the building?


    I pondered and forced myself to clear my head. I turned to talk to Li Mazi. Li Mazi, go back there now and try to keep him calm. Make sure he doesnt hurt Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu. Im going to the mountain to take the Grave-Digging Scale.


    Li Mazi nodded. Okay. You guys should hurry. That scoundrel... I want to kill him with my own hands!


    Then, Li Mazi moved as fast as lightning and left the vige.


    I patted the young mans shoulder. Dont worry. I will return the Grave-Digging Scale to youter.


    The young man said, Lets leave it forter. We need to save the twodies first!


    We then headed to the mountain.


    When we arrived at the cave, we saw that the grave was open. There were scratches made by fingernails, as well as a big puddle of blood on the ground.


    The Grave-Digging Scale was nowhere to be seen.


    The young man didnt hesitate and pulled at the coffin. He opened the lid. The bodyid quietly in the coffin. The corpses mouth was slightly open, and the Grave-Digging Scale was sparkling inside.


    The young man knelt with a loud thud. Father, I want to borrow the Grave-Digging Scale for a while! After I use it, I will return it to you. Please bless the two sisters. I dont want that bad guy to harm them!


    The young man shivered and opened his fathers mouth. However, since the corpse was stiff, it was a hard task. The young man then had to use both hands to open the corpses mouth and take the Grave-Digging Scale out.


    The young man used his shirt to wipe the bead clean before giving it to me. Brother, please hurry!


    I patted his shoulder and left in a hurry.


    When I arrived at the motel, I knocked on the door. Li Mazi was with the other person.


    It turned out to be one-eyed man with a short beard. His eyes shed maliciously, and there were many scratches on his body. He looked weak and dizzy.


    Whenever his mind went blurry, he used a dagger to cut his own arm. He was using the pain to keep a clear head.


    Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu were tied to two chairs. Their mouths were taped shut. When they saw us, they wiggled helplessly.


    Chu Chu, dont be afraid. Li Maziforted Chu Chu and said, Were going to save you now.


    Chu Chu didnt look scared. She gave him a weak nod then turned to look at the one-eyed man.


    As soon as the one-eyed man saw the Grave-Digging Scale in my hand, he became greedy. Quick Give me the Grave-Digging Scale. Hurry!


    Release them first, I snorted.


    Shut up! The one-eyed mans face turned purple in rage. I said, give me the Grave-Digging Scale!


    I threw the Grave-Digging Scale to him.


    A soon as the man caught the Grave-Digging Scale, he was so excited his entire body shook. Then, without a bit of hesitation, he put it into his mouth.


    I felt nauseous. We had just taken that Grave-Digging Scale out of a corpses mouth!

 Chapter 148: A Fathers Love Is Like a Mountain

    Chapter 148: A Father''s Love Is Like a Mountain


    Strangely enough, as soon as the one-eyed man had the bead in his mouth, his mind was much clear.


    He took a deep breath. With an excited face, he grabbed Yin Xinyue. Move, youreing with me!


    Li Mazi immediately said, No, dont take her. Shes too weak. She cant run fast. How about you take Chu Chu as a hostage?


    The one-eyed man sneered then let go of Yin Xinyue. He turned to grab Chu Chus cor and pulled her away.


    Hold on, screamed Li Mazi. Can you remove the tape on her mouth? She has sinusitis, so she wont be able to breathe well through her nose. If you shut her mouth, she will suffocate. You dont want to kill anybody, do you?


    Youre freaking annoying, cursed the one-eyed man. However, he believed Li Mazi and tore the tape away. Then, he grabbed Chu Chu and left the room.


    I looked at Li Mazi in puzzlement. I wondered what he had nned.


    After the one-eyed man had taken Chu Chu away, I immediately walked forward to untie Yin Xinyue. I looked at Li Mazi and saw him standing still. I was flustered. Li Mazi, why are you still standing there? Hurry, go after him!


    Li Mazi smiled coldly. Dont worry. Chu Chu will be alright.


    <em>What?</em>


    I didnt get him.


    A momentter, Li Mazis phone rang. He checked his phone and said, Excellent.


    Then, he rushed out at maximum speed.


    I didnt understand anything but still followed after him.


    We ran all the way to the garden outside the motel. We saw Chu Chu there.


    The one-eyed man was rolling in pain on the ground. He was grabbing his own throat. Foam had gathered in his mouth as Chu Chu was angrily stomping on his body.


    Li Mazi couldnt stay calm anymore. He hugged Chu Chu and repeatedly apologized.


    I pinned the one-eyed man onto the ground and tied him up with the rope he had used on Chu Chu. Then we carried him back to the motel.


    Eventually, Li Mazi exined what had happened. It turned out Chu Chu had used an insect on the man when he was peeling the tape off her mouth. The insect was now in his body.


    Since everybody was all right, we heaved a sigh of relief. I asked Chu Chu to relieve the effects of the insect in the one-eyed mans body so that I could ask him some questions.


    The one-eyed man got a hold of himself a littleter.


    He still watched Chu Chu cautiously. He was scared.


    I smiled coldly. Chu Chu, how will this guy die? He doesnt have the antidote, after all.


    Chu Chu said, The worms will gnaw on his internal organs. Uhm, this process will take roughly one month


    The one-eyed man gawked in fright. He had experienced Chu Chus skills so he didnt doubt her. He slumped and almost knelt to beg for Chu Chus forgiveness.


    I rubbed his head. As long as you cooperate with us, we will give you the antidote.


    The one-eyed man immediately blurted, I will, I will. I will tell you everything. Please dont kill me! I still have parents and children to feed. My family depends on me!


    Why did you want the Grave-Digging Scale? What does it do? I asked.


    The one-eyed man greedily nced at the Grave-Digging Scale in my hand but turned his gaze aside shortly after. His yearning expression quickly faded. It seemed the Grave-Digging Scale had some magic that could make people sink in it.


    This Grave-Digging Scale could ensure that ones bloodline will continue, preventing it from ending without a descendant said the one-eyed man.


    Prevent the bloodline from ending? I furrowed my brows.


    <em>Why did the young mans father want to give his son the Grave-Digging Scale? Did he know that his family would end in this generation?</em>


    I told the one-eyed man my doubts.


    The one-eyed man sighed. Its a long story


    Li Mazi was also interested because of the phrase without a descendant. He understood that there was a story behind this Grave-Digging Scale. He kicked the one-eyed man off the sofa and then lifted his cup of tea. He posed as if he was enjoying this. Spit it out. Whats going on here?


    The one-eyed man then slowly told us the story from start to finish.


    The young mans father was known as Brother Guo in their line of business.


    Brother Guo had earned this name because he wasnt afraid of death. When he had just joined this profession, his fearlessness was spread all over. Eventually, he had built a reputation in the circle of tomb raiders.


    After he obtained a rtively high position in this profession, he created his own band of tomb raiders, which then traveled around the country, visiting ces with good geomancy to find a certain thing.


    They originally thought that Brother Guo didnt like the antiques found in small tombs, so they didnt dig further into the story. However, one time, when Brother Guo was drunk, he revealed the item he was seeking for. It turned out he wanted to find the bead that was now lying in my hand, the Grave-Digging Scale.


    Being drunk, Brother Guo told them the story behind the Grave-Digging Scale.


    From ancient times, tomb raiding was a profession that would leave people without a descendant. Their family would end at the tenth generation.


    In other words, even if a tomb raider had a family, bad luck would still follow his descendents. A tomb raiders family could not grow past the tenth generation.


    It also happened that the young mans ancestors were tomb raiders. After doing the math, the young man turned out to be the tenth generation. In other words, he would be cursed by the bad luck his ancestors brought him. He wouldnt be able to live past the age of eighteen.


    After Brother Guo had learned this from his genealogy tree, he became distressed; he tried really hard to find a way to lift this curse.


    Also, it was recorded in his family records that only a legendary item called Grave-Digging Scale could lift this curse.


    In order to save his son from dying on his eighteenth birthday, Brother Guo decided to enter this tomb raider profession. As people had looked down upon this profession, Brother Guo didnt dare to tell his son and his folks. One day in the early morning, he watched his son sleep. Then he left in tears


    In the past years, in order to find the Grave-Digging Scale, Brother Guo had traveled to the North and then the South. He had experienced hardships normal people could never endure. He had almost died many times. However, he had miraculously survived everything.


    Because in his heart, he knew that his son was home, waiting for him!


    Heavens didnt mistreat people who had a good heart. Eventually, Brother Guo found the Grave-Digging Scale, and a silk roll with it.


    The silk roll recorded details on how to use the Grave-Digging Scale.


    Actually, the Grave-Digging Scale couldnt really lift the curse. It could only transfer the curse. In other words, it would transfer the curse from the son to his father.


    Brother Guo decided to die instead of his son.


    He was willing to bear the endless resentful energy and the pain of never being able to reincarnate!


    This agony was something ordinary people could never imagine, because you would feel the peach stake stab your body bit by bit. Later on, your body would rot and stench.


    However, after Brother Guo died, his son didnt do as he had wished. That was why Brother Guos n backfired and he was swallowed by the resentful energy, turning into a walking corpse.


    Although he was now a walking corpse, his son was still on his mind. He had to deliver the Grave-Digging Scale to his sons door!


    The one-eyed man and his team were in the same tomb raiding profession. They all knew the consequences so they all had the same thoughts about stealing the Grave-Digging Scale.


    When Brother Guo was still alive, they didnt dare to steal it from him. But when he died, they were no longer afraid. Unfortunately for them, Brother Guo had be a zombie. He chased them to the vige and killed two of them. The one-eyed man was lucky enough to escape.


    Earlier, the one-eyed man had kept track of us. That was why he knew about Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu and kidnapped them. He wanted to threaten us in giving him the Grave-Digging Scale.


    It was only when the young man touched the treasure that Brother Guo wouldnt react!


    When he reached this part of the story, the young mans silent weeping turned into a loud wail.


    Yin Xinyue couldnt control her tears. Feeling sympathetic, she came forward and patted the young mans shoulder.


    The one-eyed man said in distress, Nephew, Im so sorry. I lost my mind earlier and I did that to my brother. Please, forgive me! Ive already lost two of my brothers!


    I now remembered the two dead people thatid in the young mans house. Then, I let the young man go home with the Grave-Digging Scale.


    The young man sighed and put the Grave-Digging Scale into his pocket. He mumbled, Father, Im willing to live no longer than eighteen years instead of seeing you in great pain because of me. Please help me take out the peach wood stakes from his body and help him ascend!


    I was bewildered. <em>This young man doesnt want to live anymore? Did he forget the curse of the tenth generation?</em>


    I tried to talk to him but he didnt listen to me.


    Whenever I think about how my father had endured the hardships even after he was gone, I feel so much pain. Not to mention, no one will know if I will die early or not. Who has ever verified that a tomb raiders family will not have the tenth generation?


    Eventually, I nodded in agreement.


    We took the peach wood stakes out of Brother Guos body then burned him. We put his ash into an urn and sealed it with a mixture of rooster blood and soot from the bottom of a pot.


    I told the young man to bury the urn after forty-nine days.


    With tears in his eyes, the young man thanked us and bid us farewell.


    He also insisted on giving us the Grave-Digging Scale.


    At first, I didnt want it. No matter what, the young man needed it to save his life. However, he was too persistent and said that he didnt want to keep it with him.


    Feeling helpless, I told him I would just keep the bead for him and return it when he turned eighteen-year-old.


    Later, I sent him a monthly allowance. However, after one year, the young man left Qingshan Vige.


    I heard that he got married, had children and was living in a big city.


    I went to the graveyard and found that the young man had brought his fathers ashes with him.


    Although I got nothing to do with this business case anymore, the memory still lived in me.


    Whenever I remembered how his father had watched him with loving eyes for the whole night when he returned, even when they had nothing to say to each other, I couldnt help but want to cry.


    Then, I would silently read The View of My Fathers Back by Zhu Ziqing one more time.


    <em>The love of a father is silent but persistent. A fathers love is selfless.</em>


    <em>No matter how tall you are or how far youve traveled, dont forget your father. He is the one who loves you more than his life!</em>

 Chapter 149: The Ghost Market

    Chapter 149: The Ghost Market


    It was time for the Lunar New Years Eve, and I ordered in advance a table of food, inviting Yin Xinyue, Li Mazi, Chu Chu, and Li Meng for the year-end, reunion dinner.


    Li Mazi was a little touched. To him, this was the time he had looked forward to.


    Since he was happy, he drank more. His eyes turned red.


    Although Li Mazi was smiling, I knew he was hiding his grief.


    When he went to the toilet, I discreetly followed him. I saw him squatting and crying there.


    Chu Chus body is getting worse. She often coughs blood at night. Im afraid Chu Chu wont be able to handle it Li Mazi told me.


    I remained silent. <em>Chu Chus situation became this serious?</em>


    I didnt know how tofort Li Mazi. We puffed a box of cigarettes before returning to the table to continue drinking.


    When we were about to finish dinner, someone chanted, Merciful Buddha!


    I was happy to see that Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi hade!


    Zen Master Baimei smiled kindly, as usual. I nned to spend the Lunar New Year all alone and couldnt get over my loneliness. Now I see that all of you are celebrating here happily. Could I join as well?


    I was very excited and invited Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi to their seats. I wanted to open a new bottle to drink with them.


    What a pity, though! Zen Master Baimei was a monk and Chuyi was a Daoist priest. They didnt drink liquor.


    They had two cups of jasmine tea and enjoyed their drinks.


    Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu also had a cup of liquor. Their faces blushed, which made them look more charming than usual.


    Since they were tipsy, I asked Li Meng to take them home first.


    I knew Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi came to us for some business. Perhaps it was rted to the Night Dragon Bait!


    After the three left, I couldnt help but ask Chuyi, Do you know where the Night Dragon Bait is?


    He pondered for a while then said, How long has it been since the event?


    While I was counting my fingers, Li Mazi blurted, Five months and seventeen days.


    <em>Li Mazi has been counting the days?</em>


    "I see." Chuyi just nodded.


    Li Mazi was worried. Why do you ask? Is it about the time Chu Chu has left?


    Chuyi hesitated for a while then nced at Zen Master Baimei.


    Zen Master Baimei smiled and lifted his cup of tea. He drank then poured himself more tea. Benefactor, you dont need to worry. Were here to tell you an important clue regarding the Night Dragon Bait


    I looked at Li Mazi with excitement. His hand trembled as he held his chopsticks.


    I immediately asked Zen Master Baimei, Zen Master, since weve got the clue, we should quickly depart! Chu Chu wont be able to handle it for a long time!


    Zen Master Baimei sighed and said, Its a perilous ce. Even if Chuyi and I go there, Im not sure if we can return in one piece. If we bring you all together, Im afraid there will be more bad luck than good luck.


    Li Mazi mmed his chopsticks on the table. Zen Master, you dont need to tell me that. Just tell me the destination. Im going there alone.


    Zen Master Baimei asked, Do you know the Ghost Market?


    "Ghost Market?


    I was bewildered. <em>How could the Night Dragon Bait be rted to the Ghost Market?</em>


    I knew the Ghost Market. When people mentioned the words, Ghost Market, it could be one of two meanings.


    The first, it was some illegal street market. It was illegal because there were vendors of all kinds that sold antiques robbed from graves or treasures of unknown origin. To avoid the police, they decided to open their stallste at night. That was why such markets were called, Ghost Markets.


    The second meaning referred to something much scarier. It was a market for ghosts, run by humans. If you gave the ghosts some goods, the ghosts could bestow longevity or reveal some secret information.


    The most famous markets of this kind were Fengdus Ghost City in Chongqing and the Old City God Temple in Shanghai.


    I then said to Zen Master Baimei, I know something about Ghost Market. Isnt Fengdus Ghost City rather famous? Every year, when the gates of hell open, many people go there to do secret transactions with ghosts.


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head. The real Ghost Market doesnt have a fixed location. It will randomly appear everywhere around the country. Every time it opens, itsts for only one week. After one week, you will have to wait for the next year


    "This time, we happen to know that the Ghost Market will appear in Wild Dog Mountain Ridge. The reason why the Ghost Market is appearing there this time is because some folks there had dug up a dragon horn with heavy negative energy. I suspect that the dragon horn is the Night Dragon Bait as only such an item has the ability to attract the Ghost Market.


    I looked pensive and nodded. The Wild Dog Mountain Ridge? Its around three hundred kilometers outside a small tourist area, right? I often drive on the freeway through there and see the sign board that says, Wild Dog Mountain Ridge.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. Right, thats it.


    Zen Master Baimei, do you have any n? I asked.


    Zen Master Baimei sighed. The ce seems to have many beautiful sceneries, but its actually extremely perilous. We must explore it well! You two should apany us. In case we encounter some danger, just help us from the sidelines. But if everything is fine, you could enter with us.


    I agreed with Zen Master Baimei. Excellent. Zen Master Baimei, when will we go?


    "Right now.


    After discussing, Li Mazi and I went home to notify Yin Xinyue and Chu Chu.


    As soon as Yin Xinyue heard that I was going to the Ghost Market, she was excited. I guessed she couldnt wait to go there and widen her horizons.


    Chu Chu, however, was sad because she didnt want Li Mazi to go.


    After all, she was an expert. She knew how dangerous the Ghost Market was!


    But Li Mazi had made up his mind. How could he stay home, after he had already decided to go?


    Chu Chu couldnt persuade him. Eventually, she agreed to let Li Mazi go. Yin Xinyue repeatedly asked me to take a lot of photos for her.


    I didnt know if I shouldugh or cry. <em>Take a lot of photos Does she think that I am going on a vacation?</em>


    After bidding them farewell, we got in the car.


    We didnt talk on the way there. After we got out of the freeway to Wild Dog Mountain Ridge, we saw a majestic mountain.


    People called such a high mountain ridge. I wondered if there was any special reason behind it.


    When we stopped by the foot of Wild Dog Mountain Ridge, we got a better view of the ce. It was full of scrubs and thorns. This was very typical for a wild mountain. Ayer of mist capped the mountain, which gave it a mysterious aura.


    The temperature at the foothills was a little low. Chilling wind blew past us. I was a little regretful that I didnt bring thick clothes with me.


    Wheres the Ghost Market? asked Li Mazi.


    Zen Master Baimei said, When we go through Wild Dog Mountain Ridge, well see a vige surrounded by mountains. The terrain is quite simr to a small basin, and the vige is situated right in the center of the basin. As such, all the negative energy surrounding it can follow the ridge and enter the vige. Thats why we can feel this shocking negative energy, even at ten miles away! That is also the reason I suspected that the Ghost Market could open in the vige.


    Then we should go in. Li Mazi couldnt wait anymore. I saw a road over there.


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head. I think you two should wait outside. Chuyi and I will find the way. That small trail is the path the vigers follow to exit the ridge. We cant go that way. Otherwise, well be at risk of exposing ourselves.


    You mean we have to get in there sneakily and not let the folks see us? I asked.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. Yes, it''s a top secret mission. If Im not wrong, an abnormal phenomenon has started to appear in the vige. If they see strangersing, they will be cautious.


    We had discussed things for a while but Li Mazi was resolute about going in. He didnt want to stay and wait.


    He was worried that Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi wouldnt try hard enough to find the Night Dragon Bait.


    Eventually, I suggested that we could pretend to be some travelers in order to explore the ce. It would be good if we could back each other up.


    After we sorted things out, we didnt linger any longer. Chuyi took the lead and opened a path between the thorns and scrubs. With some difficulty, we climbed up the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge!

 Chapter 150: Wild Dog Mountain Ridge

    Chapter 150: Wild Dog Mountain Ridge


    The rough terrain of the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge was beyond our imaginations. We were halfway there, but I was already exhausted.


    However, this mountain nk wasnt a ce we could rest at. There were too many thorny bushes around, and venomous snakes could be hiding at any of these bushes. If we were careless, they could bite us.


    I gritted my teeth and kept climbing up the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge.


    When we reached the peak, I couldnt stand it anymore. I fell to the ground with a pale face.


    Li Mazi didnt look any better than I did. The mist at the mountain peak was thick and the air was very thin, which made it difficult to breathe.


    Li Mazi tucked his tongue out and looked like a panting dog.


    However, before we could rest, Chuyi sighed and signaled us to not talk.


    Our nerves immediately went tense. We pricked our ears up to listen to themotion around.


    However, after listening for a while, we didnt catch anything else besides the howling wind.


    What is it? I lowered my voice and asked Chuyi.


    It sounds like someone is talking nearby, answered Chuyi.


    Then, he headed toward the stones at the peak and moved forward.


    We followed closely behind him.


    Indeed, not long after we had started walking, we saw two vigers talking to each other.


    Chuyis hearing wasnt something an ordinary person couldpare to.


    The two people were justmon, ordinary farmers. However, Chuyi was watching them carefully. He stayed put for quite a long time.


    I asked out of curiosity, Is there a problem?


    He answered, Take a closer look. Do they look normal?


    <em>Normal? Why wouldnt they look normal?</em> I was bewildered and watched the other two again.


    Then, I was frightened and felt my goosebumps rising!


    The two farmers were talking andughing, descending the mountain with the hoes on their shoulders.


    However, when they walked halfway, they turned around. They repeated their actions as though they were in a loop, walking around the Wild Dog Mountain Ridges peak.


    The two men were chatting cheerily and they did not seem to notice what was happening.


    A ghost wall, I blurted.


    Chuyi nodded. It seems the person who runs the Ghost Market is here. To iste the outside world, he has arranged an illusory formation in Wild Dog Mountain Ridge.


    Oh shoot. My heart panicked. Will the two farmers be wandering around this peak forever? If they keep walking, they will be worn out to death.


    Chuyi hesitated for a while then stood up. Lets go. We better not cause anymotion.


    I was surprised and looked at him. We are going to ignore them?


    We cant care too much about others, he answered. We cant even protect ourselves right now. I hope the Ghost Market will disappear soon so that they can save their own lives.


    We saw people that might die soon, but we couldnt do anything. I felt a little ufortable.


    Eventually, Zen Master Baimei couldnt stand it. He said, Merciful Buddha. Saving a life creates more merit than building a seven-floor pagoda. Guys, just be careful. We wont be busted.


    Zen Master Baimei had spoken up, so Chuyi couldnt just ignore the farmers anymore. He said to Li Mazi, Step forward twenty steps then piss on the ground.


    Li Mazi was bewildered. But Im not a virgin anymore


    No need to be a virgin, Chuyi answered. You used to be mind-controlled, so you have umted extremely thick negative energy. We can use poison to treat poison and break the formation.


    Li Mazi nodded. He stepped forward and took a leak before rushing back.


    The two farmers were finally able to descend the mountain right after that. They were stillughing and chatting while walking. They didnt notice that they had been lingering around the mountain for quite a long time.


    I sighed in relief.


    Chuyi looked in the direction of the vige. His face turned dark.


    I didnt know what he was worried about, but I was toozy to ask.


    After the two farmers disappeared from our vision, Chuyi led the way. We moved through the scrubs and descended the mountain.


    The vige in the valley of Wild Dog Mountain Ridge had a dozen households with several acres of fields.


    The fields had wheat covered in snow here and there.


    As we had been sneaking in, we couldnt let the folks find us. Chuyi found a haystack near some piles of wood. We immediately ran towards the haystack and removed some hay to make a temporary lodge. We could stay away from the cold and people here.


    However, four adults hiding inside a haystack wasntfortable at all.


    The entire vige was shrouded in a hazy mist. It wasnt easy to observe things from our location.


    Chuyi kept watching the vige. After a long time, he turned to us. It seems were not the first group to arrive.


    Zen Master Baimei silently kept his palms together in front of his chest.


    Somebody arrived before us? I asked Chuyi.


    The man nodded and signaled me to look outside.


    Through the mist, I could see many vigers wearing in clothes and walking around. They were chatting amongst themselves.


    However, many shadows were mingling with those folks.


    The shadows walked quickly. I could neither see their facial features nor their clothes. All that I could see was just groups of shadows moving.


    It was strange, indeed. Why could I clearly see the vigers but not the shadows?


    I had a scary thought. <em>Could it be that... those shadows arent humans, but ghosts?</em>


    <em>Are they here to join the Ghost Market?</em>


    I was shocked so I hurried to ask Chuyi to confirm my thoughts.


    Chuyi exined to me patiently, I cant tell if those shadows are humans or ghosts. If they are wearing ck cloaks, they could also create such visual effects.


    But if they are humans, why dont the vigers seem to recognize them?


    Chuyi pondered for a long time then answered in a low voice, It seems the vigers are controlled


    They are controlled? What do you mean?


    Take a closer look. Do you notice anything strange in the vige? asked Chuyi.


    I carefully observed the vige. Except for the shadows walking back and forth between the vigers, nothing else was strange.


    The man asked, Why isnt there any poultry in the vige? We dont even hear any dogs barking.


    After listening to him, my heart sank. He was right. No matter how remote the vige was, it should have chickens crowing or dogs barking. This ce was deadly quiet as if they were in a silent movie.


    Chuyi turned to us. We have both bad and good news.


    Li Mazi immediately asked him, The good news is that the Night Dragon Bait is here?


    Chuyi nodded. Right.


    Whats the bad news? I intervened.

 Chapter 151: The Night Dragon Bait Was Stolen

    Chapter 151: The Night Dragon Bait Was Stolen


    The bad news is that it seems many people and ghosts are interested in the Night Dragon Bait. Its hard topete for, said Chuyi.


    We needed topete against those ghosts Could the four of us do it?


    Chuyi took out two talismans from his pocket and gave them to Li Mazi and I. Stick these talismans on your foreheads. Were going to the vige to check.


    Then, Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei also stuck the talismans onto their foreheads. The scene looked really funny.


    What does this talisman do? I asked.


    This talisman, together with the Yu Footwork, can make the wearer invisible to people and ghosts.


    I was surprised. <em>Was this the legendary talisman that could make people invisible?</em>


    Zen Master Baimei told me that the talisman could suppress the positive energy in our bodies, which would be lower than the limit the ghosts could detect. As for the Yu Footwork, it was a set of steps created from the eight divinatory trigrams of the Book of Changes. It could make use of the obstacles in the surrounding area to allow the user to hide. Under this hazy mist, it would be very useful. The other party wouldnt be able to detect us.


    I was a little disappointed, though. I expected something better.


    We followed closely behind Chuyi. We walked in a very strange way, which required us to hop around.


    When we were close to the vigers, I heard them talk. The weathers so strange. Why is it foggy all of a sudden? I cant work in my field.


    Right, its also getting colder


    Oh, by the way, I havent seen Uncle Zhong in several days. Ever since he dug that treasure, he has been idle in his home. He doesnt evene out.


    Lets go. Im going to Uncle Zhongs to see what a dragon horn looks like.


    My heart sank as I recognized that the dragon horn they had just mentioned was the Night Dragon Bait.


    Chuyi whispered, Move, follow them!


    I suddenly noticed that we were not the only ones following the two folks. The moment the folks mentioned the dragon horn, many shadows started to congregate.


    After the vigers started to head toward Uncle Zhongs, the shadows also started to follow them.


    I was terrified. I was pretty sure the shadows were ghosts because when I faced them, I couldnt see their facial features. From their bodies, I could feel a strange chill.


    Shivering, I turned to look at Chuyi. I didnt know what to do.


    Chuyi looked at me andforted me. Dont panic. Just follow the vigers.


    Nervously, I followed him.


    Obviously, those shadows saw us. They studied us with strange eyes but they didnt really mind us. I guessed they thought we were their kind. Without giving us another nce, they continued to move forward.


    It was less than five minutes of walking until I saw the two folks enter a brick house.


    The moment the door opened, all the shadows flooded in.


    Chuyi took a quick nce at the house then pulled me aside. We hid behind a big tree.


    Feeling impatient, I asked, Did you see the Night Dragon Bait?


    He shook his head and said, The situation is beyond my expectations. I didnt expect that the Ghost Market had already started


    Already started? I was surprised. Why didn''t I see any transactions?


    All the people and ghosts doing transactions are inside that brick house, said Chuyi. The two vigers who just entered the house, Im afraid they wont ever be able to get out of there


    My heart throbbed. <em>Is the Ghost Market that dangerous?</em>


    When will we go in there for the Night Dragon Bait? Li Mazi was excited.


    After all, Chu Chu was in great danger. The medicine we had spent such a long time to find was right in front of us. How could Li Mazi not be excited?


    Chuyi looked at Li Mazi and said with some difficulty, Dont act rashly. All the shadows in the vige are here just to watch the fun. The real powerhouses are all in the brick house. We cant do anything today. Just keep quiet and watch what happens.


    Li Mazi sighed. He was somewhat unwilling.


    I thought that if Chuyi didnt stop him, he would just charge into the house and rob the Night Dragon Bait. Although he looked like a coward who was afraid of death, he actually treasured his family members more than his own life.


    We could only wait behind the big tree. After quite a long time, we didnt notice anymotion from the brick house.


    Out of boredom, I started to study the brick house.


    The house was ordinary and shabby, but the fog was much thicker here than anywhere else. The door was closed, so we couldnt see what was going on inside. Sometimes, two or three folks would pass by the gate. They looked at the house in puzzlement, mumbled something then left.


    I was astonished. I had never thought that humans and ghosts could live harmoniously in a vige.


    We had been staying idle behind the big tree for two or three hours. No one had left the house yet. Eventually, Li Mazis patience was drained. No matter how hard we tried to persuade him, he wanted to charge into the brick house to see what was happening.


    Zen Master Baimei was helpless. He chanted, Merciful Buddha, then asked Li Mazi to stop there. He would go inside to see what was happening.


    Not long after Zen Master Baimei entered the house, the door was pushed open. Instantly, a flood of shadows rushed outside. It was as if they had just seen something very scary. They scattered quickly.


    Zen Master Baimei was one of thest to leave the house. As soon as he walked out, he urged us to leave quickly.


    My heart started to beat frantically. From Zen Master Baimeis expression, I knew something bad had happened. I immediately held onto Li Mazi and ran after Zen Master Baimei like crazy.


    We rushed all the way to the wheat field outside the vige, then stopped. Zen Master Baimei sat on a haystack. He wiped off his sweat with his sleeve.


    Li Mazi couldnt wait anymore. Zen Master, what happened there?


    Zen Master Baimeis kind face was now dark. The Night Dragon Bait was stolen


    Chuyi was bewildered. Stolen? Who has such guts to steal things in the Ghost Market?


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head. Im not sure. In the blink of an eye, it was gone. Im afraid big chaos would follow.


    Disappeared? Li Mazi fumed. Who dared to steal my Night Dragon Bait? Shoot, Im going to wrangle him to death!


    I hurried to pull him back. This man was bing crazy about the Night Dragon Bait. Since when did the item be his?


    Zen Master Baimei, what will happen if the Night Dragon Bait disappears?


    Zen Master Baimei forced a smile. Im not really certain because ever since the Ghost Market was established, nothing had ever been stolen. I guess the vigers in the entire Wild Dog Mountain Ridge will face a cmity. If they cant find the Night Dragon Bait, they will vent out their anger on those innocent vigers!


    I took a deep breath. Would they ughter the entire vige?


    Zen Master Baimei, Its possible.


    What? I shivered. <em>ughter an entire vige? What year was it? Could people actually do that?</em>


    Chuyi said coldly, I dont think so. I saw that many of those who hade to join the Ghost Market had left. They all looked pissed off but they still left. It seems theyre afraid of something. They wouldnt dare to attack this vige.


    I nodded and thought, <em>its better this way.</em>


    We stayed in the haystack and watched the situation in the vige. Then, we drifted into sleep.


    When I opened my eyes, a sunbeam shone above my head and directly hit my face. So dazzling that I couldnt open my eyes.


    Feeling puzzled, I looked around. I was surprised to see that the thick fog was now gone. The sun was high in the sky. It emitted strong sunlight that shone over the quiet vige.


    The vigers were working in their fields and took in the fresh air. A few old men were ying cards. Everything looked so calm and peaceful.


    I gawked in astonishment. <em>Whats going on? Was yesterday just a dream of mine?</em>


    <em>Where were those weird shadows? Where is the white mist that couldnt be blown away? Even the icy coldness is gone</em>


    While I watched the peaceful vige, I was speechless.


    Li Mazi also gawked. Chuyi, what happened here?

 Chapter 152: Amnesia

    Chapter 152: Amnesia


    Chuyi took a deep breath and looked at Zen Master Baimei.


    Zen Master Baimei roared withughter. The Night Dragon Bait is a righteous item. It has gotten rid of the Ghost Market. It seems the Night Dragon Bait wasnt stolen yesterday but rather, it has expelled all the Ghost Markets participants to protect the vigers! Merciful Buddha, your kindness is boundless!


    Li Mazi was excited and grabbed Zen Master Baimeis sleeve. So, the Night Dragon Bait is still in the vige?


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. It should be. If were lucky, we can borrow the Night Dragon Bait. Itll be much easier this way


    Chuyi also looked happy, as if the weight was lifted off his shoulders.


    Although it was a forced smile, it was a miracle to see him smiling.


    Lets go and see the Night Dragon Bait.


    At this moment, we were really excited. We didnt think that the situation would change so much overnight.


    We followed Chuyi and got out of the haystack. We headed toward the brick house.


    Yesterday, when the two vigers chatted, we heard a piece of news. The one who found the Night Dragon Bait was a man called Uncle Zhong.


    When we arrived at Uncle Zhongs house, we saw a man. He was around fifty years old, and he was chopping some wood in his yard. His tattered radio was ying Zhao Benshans performance. I liked this mans carefree lifestyle.


    After noticing us, the old man dropped his ax and asked, Who are you looking for?


    Good day, sir. Were travelers. Weve noticed that your houses geomancy is extremely good. Thats why wevee to see it. I came up with an excuse.


    You swindlers, said the old man. He didnt appear to have any manners and wanted us to leave.


    I waved my hands immediately. No, no, sir. Here, this is for you.


    Then, I took out several one-hundred-renminbi notes and shoved them into his hands. We dont have any other requests. We just want to walk around your yard and check out the geomancy.


    As soon as the old man saw the money, his attitude toward us changed instantly. He smiled. Well then, go around as you please! Ive never thought that this shabby house had good geomancy. Its no wonder that Im really old and I can still chop up wood and lift water. Young men cant work as much as I can.


    I gently smiled at him then walked around his courtyard.


    After taking a look around, I asked, Sir, have you ever kept a dragon horn here?


    A dragon horn? No, said the old man.


    Oh, I heard you unearthed it several days ago, I reminded him.


    The old man had a bewildered face. What are you talking about? I havent worked on my field in days


    I was likewise surprised. Really?


    The old man swore, If Im deceiving you, may I be struck by lightning!


    I wanted to ask further. However, Chuyi just faintly looked at me and urged, Lets go.


    <em>Go? We havent seen the Night Dragon Bait yet and we have to go? What does Chuyi have on his mind?</em>


    However, Chuyi was really persistent. He forced us to leave.


    When we reached the entrance of the vige, he stopped and said, Its strange


    Whats strange? I asked.


    Chuyi exined, When you guys were talking, I was observing the old man the entire time. He didnt lie. If you persisted any further, it would have been of no use. Additionally, I sensed and found that the Night Dragon Baits aura had disappeared. This vige is really odd.


    I didnt buy it. I thought that the old man just didnt want to let us see the Night Dragon Bait.


    Coincidently, a man walked past the vige entrance. I knew this man. He was the one who said Uncle Zhong had unearthed a dragon horn yesterday. He must have known something.


    I caught up with him and offered him a cigarette. I smiled. Good day, sir. Were from the Cultural Relics Protection Bureau. Weve heard that you guys have a dragon horn here. Thats why wevee to verify the story.


    He was surprised and looked at me in puzzlement.


    Dont worry. Were going to take some photos and check it out. We wont take the item away.


    The man was even more baffled. What are you talking about? I dont understand, brother. What dragon horn? Who did you hear that from? I think you have the wrong ce.


    I turned and looked at Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi. Their faces were dark.


    I felt pressed for time. Could you think about it more carefully, sir? Uncle Zhong has a dragon horn, right? We just want to check if its a real dragon horn. No matter what, its a legendary item, right? Everyone is very curious.


    Are you crazy? The viger didnt know if he should cry orugh. Dragon horn? Hah! If we had the dragon horn, we would be rich already. Why would I linger here and chat with you?


    I could tell that he wasnt lying, but that made me more anxious. What kind of power could give the entire vige amnesia in one night?


    Do you remember the unusual mist from yesterday? I asked.


    Mist? What mist? If you dont have any business, I need to go now. I have to take care of my wheat. Then, he started to leave.


    Wait a minute. Dont you see something strange here? Where are all the animals in your vige?


    Eh? After listening to me, the man was perplexed. He looked at me. No animals? The animals are gone?


    He looked bewildered as if he was sleep-talking. He mumbled something then left.


    I was worried and looked at him. The man looked as though he had just been bewitched.


    I went back to Zen Master Baimei. What happened? Why have all the vigers lost their memories?


    Zen Master Baimei sighed. Its going to be really difficult to get the Night Dragon Bait. It can control peoples minds and brainwash them. We cant resist such a powerful force.


    Li Mazi screamed in rage. I dont believe it. I must investigate this to the end and find out who has stolen the Night Dragon Bait.


    I looked at Chuyi. He had a cold expression.


    Lets go. Zen Master Baimei waved his hand and said, We should find a safe ce to discuss this matter.


    Feeling hopeless, we followed Zen Master Baimei.


    This sudden change was much more difficult to deal with than all the otherworldly items I had encountered before.


    However, whether we could take the Night Dragon Bait or not, we had to try!


    Around ten minutester, we heard people screaming for help in the vige. Guys, hurry! Help! Help! Tie Niu hung himself!


    Zen Master Baimeis face turned gray. Not good. We must hurry back there. That thing has started to attack the vigers!


    Then, Zen Master Baimei sped up. We followed closely behind him.


    We saw that many vigers had gathered at the gate of a house, where hung a body. The mans eyes bulged and were full of fear. His tongue was tucked out, and the corners of his mouth rose as if he was gramacing before he died. His appearance was odd.


    We knew this man. He was the one I had just talked to at the vige entrance.


    Merciful Buddha, said Zen Master Baimei. He bowed to the corpse then turned around and ushered us to leave.


    You caused his death After leaving the house far enough, Zen Master Baimei suddenly looked at me.


    What do you mean? I was puzzled. He hung himself. It has nothing to do with me.

 Chapter 153: Thousand Livestock Pit

    Chapter 153: Thousand Livestock Pit


    This vige is under a curse. All the vigers are now pawns in the hands of the devil. They can only follow the devils orders.


    Things will be all right if the vigers dont realize the truth. However, if they recognize they have lost their memories, they will remember the truth. When that happens, they will no longer want to be pawns, and the devil will kill them. He doesnt need pawns that wont behave.


    When you asked Tie Niu things rted to the Night Dragon Bait and the mist yesterday, the man slowly got his memory back. So, for the folks safety, we shouldnt disclose too many things to them, Zen Master Baimei said with a sorrowful face.


    I was dumbstruck. <em>I have pushed Tie Niu to his death?</em>


    We know the secret of this vige. Will we be killed as well? I was anxious.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. Its possible.


    Li Mazi almost copsed. Shoot! Who is behind this? Whos the devil standing behind the curtain controlling everything?


    Suddenly, a horde of folks rushed to the vige entrance. They held sticks, hoes, and shovels. They were angry and surrounded us. You killed Tie Niu. You have to pay for his life!


    I was frightened. Sweat fell down my forehead.


    Zen Master Baimei, has the devil brainwashed the vigers again? He wants to kill us, right? I panicked.


    Zen Master Baimei sighed. Yeah, that seems the case.


    What should we do now? I was flustered. Can we beat them?


    Chuyi said coldly, Stay behind me.


    Then, he took out his sword and stood in front of us.


    We didnt kill him, I tried to exin, You dont have any evidence, so why do you want to me everything on us?


    Zen Master Baimei forced a smile. Its useless. The devil has nted such thoughts in their minds. We cant talk them out of it.


    Capture them, the leader of the group cried out. Then, all of the vigers swarmed over like a rising tide.


    Chuyi took a deep breath and said, Stay close behind me


    Then, he thrust toward the weakest spot of the group.


    Countless iron hoes and shovels hacked at him, but how could those vigerspare to Chuyis speed?


    He grabbed the iron shovel and immobilized the leader of the group. Then, he leaped up and kicked him away. This sent all the vigers that were standing behind him to the ground.


    Chuyi casually took a weapon and gave it to me. Keep this to defend yourself.


    Slowly, Chuyi seized three or four weapons, and a gap was formed in the encirclement. He took us and stormed out of the mob of people.


    The vigers chased after us, but we were much faster.


    I asked Chuyi, Where are we going? Isnt the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge this way? Are we leaving?


    There are many bushes in the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge. We can hide there.


    We got to the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge and found a lushly green scrub to hide in.


    The vigers didnt stop after they lost track of us. They went all the way to the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge.


    However, it was strange that after they got to the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge, they didnt scatter to search for us. They seemed to have amon goal and headed towards the peak.


    This was odd.


    After seeing this, Chuyi picked up a rock from the ground and threw at the group of running folks.


    His strange action scared me as color left my face. Why wasnt he wasnt afraid of disclosing us?


    The rock hit a viger on his head. However, the vigers didnt turn to look at us but continued walking numbly toward the peak of the mountain.


    Chuyis face darkened immediately. The situation isnt good


    Whats going on? I was restless.


    He took a deep breath then said, It seems we are unknowingly controlled too.


    What? I thought I had just misheard him.


    Those folks didnt follow us here, he said. The devil has controlled them to go to the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge. As we ran here, we were also affected by that devil.


    I could hear my heart beating faster and faster.


    What was that devil, after all? How could it affect our minds without us even noticing?


    Also, why did he guide the vigers to the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge?


    I was so confused and didnt have a clue of what had happened. Then, someone screamed from the mountain peak. What the heck Isnt this my Dahuang? How did my dog die here?!


    Its my Xiaohua! Why is Xiaohua dead here? Who killed my dog!?


    After hearing the vigers screaming, Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei had dark expressions on their faces. They sighed as they knew something was wrong.


    I turned to look at them. Whats going on?


    The man said, Im afraid those folks wont be able to descend the mountain alive


    "What do you mean?


    "They found the missing livestock and realized the truth. This will also turn them into rebellious pawns. It seems that the devil wants to ughter this vige!


    I felt restless as if oil was poured into a me. Hurry, save them! We cant just watch them die. There are so many lives at stake!


    Chuyi shook his head. Im afraid its toote


    Although he said this, he still ran toward the mountain peak.


    We followed closely behind him and dashed to the mountain peak.


    At a far distance, we could already smell a thick rotten stench. When we squeezed through the bushes, we saw dead animals scattered on the ground. There were cats, dogs, pigs, and even goats.


    The further we went, therger the number of corpses. These animals looked miserable. Their eyes had been taken out, and some got their heads bitten off. Their stomachs had been torn open. However, most of the bodies had been torn apart directly. We saw blood sshes everywhere, which was frightening!


    When we arrived, we saw a massive, deep pit. In the pitid arge number of dead animals. Their corpses had almost filled the entire pit. On the surface were two big brown bulls that were dposing. Worms wiggled on their bellies. Their red, big eyes gazed at us. I felt scared.


    This is weird. Where are the vigers? I was flustered and checked around carefully to see if I could find any footsteps on the ground.


    Blood from those poor animals had sshed everywhere, so I could clearly see the footprints of the vigers.


    However, the footprints disappeared right in front of the deep pit. It looked as though they had vanished into thin air.


    I was very tense and nervous. I looked at Chuyi. I didnt know what was going on. How could all those living people disappear into thin air within several minutes?


    Chuyi grimaced. With two fingers, he touched the blood on the ground. Then he brought his fingers to his nose and sniffed the blood.


    Zen Master Baimei chanted, Merciful Buddha. He looked as though he couldnt stand the scene. He closed his eyes and started to read the Great Compassion Mantra.


    Whos there?! All of a sudden, Chuyi hissed then pointed at the mountain peak.


    I followed the direction he had pointed to. I was able to see a pair of eyes gazing at us from inside the forest. Motionless, like a hiding beast.


    Chuyi was as fast as a lightning strike and dashed towards the person hiding in the forest. He wanted to force him out of hiding.


    That person didnt resist. After Chuyi grabbed him and pulled him out of the shade, he fell unconscious.


    I immediately checked him. He was one of the folks!

 Chapter 154: Blood Soil

    Chapter 154: Blood Soil


    The folks condition was terrible. Something had bitten his ears off, which gave him an abnormal, gruesome look.


    Chuyi squatted and used his hand to check his breathing. Then he checked his chest. We still have a chance at saving him.


    He cut his finger and dripped his blood into the vigers mouth.


    I was suprised. <em>Is Chuyis blood some sort of elixir that could save peoples lives?</em>


    After receiving several blood drops, the vigers pale face slowly regained color. Then, he tried to clear his throat by coughing. Eventually, he spat out some ck fluid!


    As soon as that ck fluid hit the rock on the ground, it reacted like a strong acid. It created many bubbles. The acid then sank and dissolved the rock.


    I gawked and dropped my jaw in shock. <em>Holy moly, whats going on?</em>


    If that ck fluid was this toxic, how could that man still be alive?


    Chuyi gazed at the ck puddle on the ground until the fluid waspletely absorbed into the rock. This took quite a long time. He then squatted and rubbed it a little bit.


    I saw his hand smear the ck substance.


    How could this be? Chuyi muttered to himself as he studied his fingers.


    All of a sudden, he seemed to remember something. He hastily tore the mans shirt. The victim had wounds all over his body, especially on his chest and back. It seemed he had been attacked by some big-sized reptile. Some wounds were so deep we could even see his white bones.


    Although his injuries were very serious, no blood had streamed from his body.


    Zen Master Baimei took out a silver needle and stabbed the man. However, he was like a mud statue that didnt ooze a drop of blood.


    Zen Master Baimei was frightened. He didnt care about his image as an aloof monk. He crouched and started to dig the ground.


    When he dug up not even half a meter, I saw that the soil wasnt ck anymore. It had turned red. It was the red hue of blood!


    After looking at the scarlet soil, Zen Master Baimei''s face turned pale. His body shook hard. That thing is in this ce.


    Chuyi also snorted. Its no wonder this ce is called Wild Dog Mountain Ridge


    I was puzzled. Chuyi, is there any special story behind the name Wild Dog Mountain Ridge?


    He nodded. We should descend the mountain quickly! We cant deal with this devil.


    Li Mazi was loathing. But wheres the Night Dragon Bait? We havent found the Night Dragon Bait yet!


    Chuyi said, Our efforts have gone in vain this time. That thing isnt the Night Dragon Bait. Its a Xiezhi horn [1]. The people here cant survive. We must leave now, hurry!


    Its not the Night Dragon Bait? Li Mazi almost copsed with disappointment. He stopped Chuyi. Brother, are you joking? Howe its not the Night Dragon Bait?


    Chuyi answered, No, Im not joking. It really isnt the Night Dragon Bait. It was a conspiracy from the start. We should go.


    Then, Chuyi said, All of us should stay close. If we scatter, only death awaits us! It was really rare for him to advise us like this.


    What about this man? I was worried and pointed at the man whose ears had been bitten off.


    He cant make it, said Chuyi. We need to deal with his body too.


    Chuyi took out a talisman and mumbled something. Immediately, the talisman ignited. He put it on the body.


    From what I had observed in the past, the corpse would burst as if it was burned with gasoline. However, this time, there was no high me. After the talisman fell on the body, it quietly extinguished.


    Chuyi inhaled deeply then took out two more talismans. He shoved them onto the dead body.


    It was the same as the previous talisman. The papers went out shortly


    However, this wasnt <em>that</em> strange because something even stranger happened. The vigers face, which had turned better earlier, now gradually darkened. Eventually, he looked like charcoal.


    This time, not only did Chuyi have a headache, but even Zen Master Baimei looked scared. How could that thing live here? It''s impossible.


    "What is it, after all? Li Mazi and I asked in unison.


    The mist ising again Suddenly, Chuyi sighed.


    I turned and looked toward the distance. Indeed,yers of white mist started to cap the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge.


    Whats going on? Didnt the Ghost Market end already?


    No, its different, Chuyi said indifferently. Lets go. No matter what, dontg behind!


    Then, he grabbed my hand.


    His hand was so cold it was almost chilled to the bone. I couldnt help but shudder.


    I then grabbed Li Mazis hand and Li Mazi held Zen Master Baimeis hand. We moved in this formation down the mountain.


    However, the more we walked, the thicker the white fog became. Not long after we had departed, the white fog was so thick we could only see around two meters ahead of us. With this short-distanced visibility, our chances to run away turned to zero.


    We had walked for quite a long time before we saw that we were near the massive pit. I was desperate and knew that we had been wandering around the ce.


    I sighed. <em>We are trapped here, arent we?</em>


    WOOF! WOOF!


    At this moment, dog barks came from the dead silent forest.


    <em>Its weird. All the dogs in the vige were killed, werent they? Where is this barkinging from?</em>


    The dog barks were really strange. I thought it sounded more like a kid crying, which was really scary. When the noises seemed to be near, my heart began to flutter.


    Chuyi muttered, Cover your ears. Dont let the dog bark overwhelm your spirit!


    I immediately covered my ears. However, it didnt work. The dog barking lingered as if it could drill through my ears.


    I suddenly felt numb in my shoulder, like something had just bitten me. I quickly turned my head aside and saw that Li Mazi was biting me!


    Li Mazi smiled. Blood from my wound trickled down the corner of his mouth. He was sucking and gulping my blood as if it was something very delicious.


    However, what terrified me was that although Li Mazi had bitten me, I only felt a little pain, as if it was just a mosquito bite.


    I was really scared and grabbed Li Mazis hair. I pped him twice. Li Mazi, wake up!


    I knew Li Mazi was enchanted by the dog bark.


    When Li Mazi was hit, his eyes were still dreamy. He stood up and stumbled. He tried to bite me again.


    I was lucky that Chuyi was fast enough. He tackled Li Mazi and sent him to the ground.


    Using his left hand, he thrust his forefinger and middle finger into Li Mazis mouth.


    Li Mazi crouched on the ground and retched. After a while, he slowly recovered. What just happened to me? Why did I feel like I was a dog?!


    Do you know why this ce is called Wild Dog Mountain Ridge? asked Chuyi. Because theres a wild dog spirit here. It even has a horn.


    Wild dog spirit with a horn? I couldnt help butugh. <em>What kind of theory is this? If Darwin knew this, would he curse you to death?</em>


    Then came another dog bark from a close distance. Zen Master Baimei cleared his throat and tried to make his voice deep and scary. Go home. Youve already eaten too much. Why are you out here causing trouble?!


    I didnt know if I should cry orugh. <em>Is Zen Master Baimei joking? Thats no ordinary dog! How could you just shoo it away by shouting at it?</em>


    But what happened next made me dumbfounded. Zen Master Baimeis method worked. I clearly saw a shadow that dashed through the white fog. It was sobbing and running away.


    Was it that simple...? I stammered. I looked at Zen Master Baimei because I couldnt believe in my eyes.


    It seems we cant leave the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge, Zen Master Baimei said. We should go back to the vige.


    Chuyi was unwilling. We can still try. Perhaps the Yu Footwork could work


    What about the vigers down there? Do they know Yu Footwork? Zen Master Baimei was merciful. He couldnt just stand still and watch the vigers get killed.


    Chuyi kept silent. Eventually, he nodded. However, his eyes turned to us. How about you two? Im going to take you two out first. Even if you two stay, the both of you wont be able to help much!


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. We were thinking the same thing.


    Of course we wanted to run way. However, if we did really ran away, were we deserving of Zen Master Baimeis and Chuyis help? No matter what, they were in danger because of us. If we ran away like this, we would be really ungrateful!


    Moreover, there were many vigers that needed our help.


    Li Mazi and I discussed the situation, and we decided to stay!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xiezhi

 Chapter 155: The Odd Story of the Xiezhi

    Chapter 155: The Odd Story of the Xiezhi


    When Zen Master Baimei discovered that we wanted to stay and help, he sighed. That thing isnt the Night Dragon Bait but a Xiezhi horn. Its strong enough to kill all of us. You two really want to stay? Please consider things carefully.


    I answered resolutely, There is no need to consider. We said we''ll stay so that means well stay.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. Merciful Buddha, people were born with a kind heart. As long as you dont forget your heart, Buddha will protect you!


    Then, Zen Master Baimei brought us back to the trail that led to the vige.


    It was strange that when we had wanted to get out, we couldnt find the way. But now that we thought about returning to the vige, we immediately saw the path.


    I was really worried and asked Zen Master Baimei, Those vigers that disappeared into thin air, are they in danger? Will they be like the man we just encountered?


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head. Im not sure, but we must watch out.


    The dog spirits power was not to be underestimated. If we were careless, we would all be doomed!


    After we descended the mountain, we saw that the thick mist had shrouded the entire vige. However, the folks there didnt recognize the threat.


    Fortunately, since they hadnt recognized the threat, the wild dog spirit wouldnt kill them. It also gave us time to think of a solution to rescue them.


    Theres only one solution that will work to defeat the wild dog spirit. We must use the vigers beliefs! said Chuyi.


    If all the vigers had the same beliefs and hated that wild dog spirit, the trap the spirit had set up would not work.


    I looked pensive and nodded. What should we do?


    Chuyi said, We should perform a y for the vigers.


    I didnt have a clue and looked at Chuyi. What y should we show them? [Sun Wukong Defeats the White Bone Spirit Thrice]? Or perhaps [Zhuge Liang Captures Meng Huo Seven Times]?


    Chuyi smiled, which was rare. He told us his n in a low voice.


    After I listened to his n, I thought it wasnt really reliable.


    Will this n work? I asked weakly.


    Chuyiforted me, Dont worry. Under normal circumstances, our y wont be able to earn their trust. But in this special situation, the vigers minds are all confused. They will definitely believe us.


    Although I still had my doubts, I followed Chuyis n.


    I went to the mountain and disguised myself, trying to look as pitiful as possible. Then, I stumbled and ran down the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge. I rushed into the vige and purposely fell at the vigers feet. Help! Help me!


    The vigers immediately noticed me and surrounded me. Who are you? Why are you here?


    I understood that the wild dog spirit had sessfully brainwashed them. They had forgotten about me already. In the mountain Th-theres a wild dog spirit. I almost died but managed to escape!


    The vigers were frightened. What wild dog spirit? How could our vige have a wild dog spirit?


    I told them, Its true. Im not lying. I-I was almost eaten. Oh right, I saw many people there. They were both young and old. The wild dog spirit was eating them! I dont know if they are the folks from this vige!


    The folks then turned tense. They hurried to check on the people in the town. Shortly after, someone screamed. Old Hu? Where is he? I dont see him!


    Wheres Ergous family? Mrs. Ergou, have you seen your husband?


    No, I havent. My father and mother-inw arent home, either. I thought they went out for a walk.


    I had sessfully stirred up the air. Everybody now knew that people were missing.


    Shortly after, Li Mazi stumbled and ran to the vige. He hade from the Wild Dog Mountain Ridge. Guys, please help! Help me!


    The vigers pulled Li Mazi up and asked him, Whats happened?


    I-I was walking on the street and I saw a wild dog eating people. I hurried over there to beat it but it attacked me! Im lucky that I could run to this vige. Or-or else, I think that wild dog spirit would have eaten me already!


    The folks here had already believed me. Now with Li Mazis story, they trusted us even more.


    When the folks heard about the wild dog spirit, they were frightened and discussed what they should do.


    Iforted them, Theres no need to be tense. When that dog spirit was chasing after me, two experts hade and fought against it. I think they will save us!


    Li Mazi said that the two experts had saved him as well. Otherwise, at this moment, he would have been in that wild dog spirits stomach.


    While we were ranting, someone chanted Merciful Buddha. Then, Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei descended the mountain.


    One was a Daoist priest while the other was a monk, so they both had aloof auras. As soon as they appeared, the vigers were overwhelmed.


    Li Mazi and I almost jumped at the same time and screamed, Masters, please save us!


    When the folks realized that these two were the experts who had fought against the wild dog spirit, they were excited. They surrounded Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei. They all begged them to save everybody here. Right at this moment, every viger believed in the existence of the wild dog spirit. No one had a bit of doubt. I exhaled in relief.


    Zen Master Baimei said, That wild dog spirit is powerful. When I passed by this mountain, I felt some monstrous energy. I came to check and indeed, a monster was wreaking havoc here! However, its unfortunate that it possesses a treasure. The two of us arent able to deal with it. Sigh, it managed to run away.


    The vigers exchanged looks and begged Zen Master Baimei to vanquish the wild dog spirit.


    Zen Master Baimei said, A monk should be merciful. Saving a life creates more merit than building a seven-floor pagoda.


    Then, he counted on his fingers and said, Theres a reason that the wild dog spirit has created cmity here. You have imed its treasure. Thats why it left the mountain. You have to think carefully. Have you unearthed anything strange these days?


    Chuyi had told me that although the vigers were brainwashed, they would remember something if we prompted them.


    It was in order to figure out the origin of the Xiezhi horn.


    Chuyi suspected that the wild dog spirit had grown a horn.


    In ancient China, a dog growing a horn was thought to be impossible. But if some dog could actually grow a horn, it was the sign of a great cmity that happened once in a hundred years!


    During the period of Emperor Wen of Han, there was a dog that grew a horn and became a spirit. Within one month, more than fifty people were reported missing in the city. Eventually, the officials had to mobilize an army and several hundred Daoist masters to subdue that dog spirit. This event was written in The Book of Han.


    The wild dogs horn was also known as Xiezhi horn. The Xiezhi was a one-horned beast.


    Although people said the Xiezhi horn wasnt as precious as the Night Dragon Bait, frankly speaking, it came from the same family. There was a chance it could have some good effect on Chu Chus illness.


    If we obtained the Xiezhi horn, it was also good for Li Mazi!


    The vigers discussed amongst themselves boisterously. They exchanged looks then said that no one had unearthed anything strange. They hadnt even gone to the fields to work for several days in a row.


    Zen Master Baimei pretended to count on his fingers then walked toward Uncle Zhong, whom we had visited before. You are Uncle Zhong, right? Several days ago, you unearthed something that looks like a horn.


    Since Zen Master Baimei could divine Uncle Zhongs name, his reputation became even more credible to the folks.


    Uncle Zhong stammered because he was worried and nervous. Did I dig some animal horn?


    Right, you think about it carefully. You will remember.


    All the vigers now trusted Zen Master Baimei. They started to yell. Uncle Zhong, did you dig up some horn? This matter is rted to everybodys life in this vige!


    Since all the vigers were putting pressure on Uncle Zhong, the old man squatted and clutched his head to think.


    It seemed he had pushed himself too much. Uncle Zhong burst out crazily. He ground his teeth and green veins bulge on his face.


    Zen Master Baimei timely grabbed his chin, which prevented him from biting his tongue off in an attempt tomit suicide!


    It seemed Uncle Zhong was going to remember soon. The wild dog spirit wanted to kill him to shut him up!

 Chapter 156: Casting Off the Old Skin to Grow Up

    Chapter 156: Casting Off the Old Skin to Grow Up


    Uncle Zhong wiggled for a while before quieting down. Immediately afterward, he began to scream again. I remember! I had unearthed a beast horn, and it attracted many strangers that came to see it. Some had even wanted to buy it at a high price. But there was a voice that warned me not to sell it.


    Eventually, a man offered me one million renminbi for the horn. I decided to sell it to him. However, as I was about to give him the horn, a strange wind blew into the room and the horn disappeared. Those strangers fled immediately. Then, I felt dizzy


    What happened after that? The vigers were all nervous and looked at Uncle Zhong.


    Uncle Zhong shook his head. After that I cant remember. I dont remember anything


    The vigers were mad and med Uncle Zhong for all the incidents that happened to their family members. Damn, its all because of you!


    Uncle Zhong clutched his head and knelt on the ground in pain. Im so sorry. Im so sorry. Its all my fault. I shouldnt have unearthed that thing.


    Zen Master Baimei said, All right, its useless to me him now. The urgent thing to do now is to find that horn. Uncle Zhong, I think you still remember where you got that horn, dont you?


    Uncle Zhong nodded immediately. I still remember. Right at the mountain foot, in my wheat field. At the time, I wanted to exploit new areas.


    Zen Master Baimei said, Thats good then. We should go now. Do you have soybeans? Everybody should keep some soybeans on your bodies. When your mind goes blurry, you must chew the soybeans.


    It wasnt hard to find soybeans. No matter what, it was an essential grain. The vigers hurried home and picked up some beans. Some cowardly folks even took a whole bag with them.


    The moment the vigers returned home to get the soybeans, Zen Master Baimei said, Its going well. That wild dog spirit cant control the vigers minds now. Next, we must think how to unite them and make them full of hatred toward the wild dog spirit. The stronger their power of belief is, the more helpless the wild dog spirit will be!


    We immediately nodded.


    Shortly after, the vigers gathered at the vige entrance. Zen Master Baimei asked Uncle Zhong to take us to the ce where he had found the horn.


    The mist around us grew thicker. We couldnt see anything farther than three meters away. Zen Master Baimei asked the folks to hold each others hands. They should never scatter.


    When we got to Uncle Zhongs wheat field, we found that the fog here was much thicker than anywhere else. We couldnt see anything clearly.


    I saw many shadows moving in the thick mist. It made me feel strange. I couldnt see the faces of the people standing near me, but I was able to see those shadows?


    I carefully pulled Chuyis shirt and told him about this strange matter.


    Chuyi seemed to have noticed it already. He drew the eight-sided Han sword on his back and muttered something. Then, his de shed with a blue light. He hacked down in midair, and all the shadows vanished.


    Zen Master Baimei asked all the people here to keep a soybean in their mouths since it was possible to encounter something dangerous soon.


    As soon as the vigers heard Zen Master Baimei, they all became nervous and ced the soybeans into their mouths.


    Zen Master Baimei held a hoe, while I quickly pulled out a shlight. Although it couldnt pierce through theyers of mist, it helped a little bit.


    The senior monk asked Uncle Zhong for the specific location then started to use his hoe to unearth the soil.


    There was only soil, mud, and a few rocks in the area. Zen Master Baimei could easily dig up the soil.


    Uncle Zhong told us the story about the day he had dug up the horn.


    That day, he hade to the mountain foot and dug the soil. After around one meter, his shovel touched something hard. At first, he thought it was some rock so he just continued to dig.


    After a while, he found a deep and dark hole that had the horn inside.


    When he saw the horn, he felt it had some sort of magic power. The magic overcame all his thoughts, and he feltpelled to take the horn home with him. He even threw his shovel aside.


    While the man was talking, Zen Master Baimeis hoe hit something hard.


    The group cheered, There it is!


    Chuyi shouted, Dont talk. If you disturb that thing, no one will be able to leave!


    The vigers all quieted down.


    I observed the area that Zen Master Baimei had just dug up.


    I saw a pit. It didnt look deep and could barely fit a human head.


    From the outside, we couldnt see anything. Zen Master Baimei didnt hurry to observe the hole but meticulously dug around the ce.


    There were a lot of stones all around the hole, which created a massive subterranean structure.


    Zen Master Baimei asked some vigers to take their tools to help dig. He asked them to dig around the hole and not to touch its original structure.


    After half an hour, the stone structure appeared in front of us, which made us gawk in awe!


    It was a small courtyard built with stones. It was small but pretty simr to a human familys courtyard. However, this miniature had rows of rooms with a bedroom, study room, living room, and even a toilet.


    Everything was made of stones that stacked on each other. These stones were glued together by some strange, tough substance. All the structures looked nice and exquisite.


    The folks were astonished and somewhat frightened. Was that creature capable of creating such aplicated courtyard? But only a human could do something of the sort!


    But no viger here had done that, right?


    Zen Master Baimei said, Merciful Buddha, did any Benefactore here and build this house to absorb the moonlight and the sunlight energy?


    The vigers shook their heads.


    I was puzzled and asked, Zen Master Baimei, how can this thing absorb the sunlight and moonlight?


    Zen Master Baimei exined, This ce is called the Eye of the Mountain, which is the part of the mountain that absorbs the essence from the moon and the sun. This sort of ce cant be used to build a house. Otherwise, not only would it affect the animals and nts that live on the mountain from taking in the essence of moonlight and sunlight, but it would also forcefully suck the spirit essence of the mountain itself, stopping only after the mountain had died! The vigers, trees, birds, and animals that live dozens of miles around the mountain would be affected altogether.


    He continued, After a long time, the thing that absorbed the mountains spirit essence would be a spirit! It could be a Mountain Spirit to protect the mountain or a monster that would harm people. From this situation, I can tell the mountains essence has been absorbed by a wild dog spirit Wild dogs are fierce animals. With its fierce nature, it couldnt be a deity, so it turned into a monster instead. That horn the wild dog spirit is using is the essence of earth and heavens. If we obtain that horn, we could restrain its source of power and then subdue it easily.


    The vigers gawked in shock. It seemed they couldnt believe that they had been neighbors with a wild dog spirit for quite a long time.


    The vigers begged Zen Master Baimei to save them and find that wild dog spirit.


    Dont worry. As long as you unite together, we can deal with that wild dog spirit.


    I lowered my voice and asked Zen Master Baimei, Who built the rooms in that courtyard? Did the wild dog spirit do that?


    Zen Master Baimei smiled and pointed at the hole. The answer is right in that hole.


    Chuyi stooped and thrust his hand into the hole. He searched around. Eventually, he pulled something out and threw it onto the ground.


    My eyes focused, and I couldnt help but take a deep breath.


    It was a yellowish dog skin. The fur was almost gone, but the skin looked intact andplete with all four legs. It was like a cicada shedding its shell.


    The skin looked smooth and nice, which wasnt much different from human skin.


    Zen Master Baimei cautiously walked forward and touched the dog skin. He sighed. No matter how much an animal wants to be a human, theyll still be an animal in the end!


    I didnt understand what he meant so I asked him.


    That wild dog spirit wants to be a human. Thats why it had cast off its skin. Anyway, no matter how much it can resemble a human, it wont be able to stand up straight. In short, it looks neither like human nor animal right now.


    To be like a human, the dog spirit had even built a courtyard. But how could a wild dog learn the knowledge that human beings have umted over the years? Although this little structure looked simr to a man-made courtyard, it was just an imitation.


    Humans were simply superior to other animals!

 Chapter 157: The Lonely, Old Dog

    Chapter 157: The Lonely, Old Dog


    Chuyi carefully checked the entire miniature courtyard and confirmed there was nothing else worth mentioning. Then, he asked the vigers to burn the dog skin and destroy the structure. Without the help of the moon and sun essence, the wild dog spirit wouldnt be able to be any stronger.


    People then started to take action and destroy the small courtyard. While the vigers were focused on their demolishing work, they all heard someone sobbing from the top of the mountain. The crying was strange but continuous and pitiful. It sounded as if someone was whining andining.


    Who was crying, and why?


    This heart-rending cry lingered in my heart. It made me puzzled and ufortable. My mind then went hazy.


    I seemed to see a lonely dog that people had always beaten up. It had tried its best to build a house where it had wanted to stay for the rest of its life.


    However, its pitiful life was disturbed yet again. The treasure it loved the most was taken away. These people didnt even spare its home. They even wanted to destroy its humble, little home!


    At this moment, it felt extremely sad.


    From now on, it wont have a house anymore. It had to wander around on the streets, without a ce to call home


    Open your mouth. Suddenly, Chuyi talked in my ear.


    Instinctively, I opened my mouth. Chuyi immediately threw a handful of soybeans into my mouth. Chew but dont swallow.


    I immediately chewed the beans.


    The soybeans were crunchy. I created crackling noises while chewing, and the mournful emotions in my head was reced by the crackling, crispy sounds. Mypassion was gone, and there was only hatred toward the dog left in my heart.


    I was astonished. <em>Did I just feelpassion for the wild dog spirit? Was it controlling me?</em>


    I looked at the other vigers, who seemed to have my same feelings. It seemed they werent willing to destroy the small courtyard.


    Chuyi said coldly, All of you chew a handful of soybeans. Dont swallow, just keep chewing.


    The vigers looked dumbstruck and didnt listen to Chuyi.


    He sighed then patted my shoulder. Read the sacred text of Daoism with me!


    I nodded then dropped the hoe in my hand. We sat down cross-legged and started to read the sacred text of Daoism out loud.


    The Dao produced One; One produced Two; Two produced Three; Three produced All things. All things leave behind them the Obscurity, and go forward to embrace the Brightness while they are harmonized by the Breath of Vacancy


    While the sacred text of Daoism was read out loud, the vigers sympathy towards the wild dog was slowly disappearing. Then, without further ado, they wielded their farming tools and started to break the small structure. No piece was left intact!


    I breathed a sigh of relief and looked at Chuyi. What should we do next?


    He said, We should go back.


    We followed him back to the vige.


    On the way back to the vige, we could still hear the wild dogs cries. The longer we listened to it, the more it sounded like a human crying!


    Chuyi asked everybody to gather in the ancestral hall, as he was worried that the wild dog spirit would attack the vigers if they scattered. Since they were now together in a group, they could support each other.


    Chuyi asked me to talk in private. Something has happened. Zen Master Baimei and I must go out at once. You and Li Mazi must watch this ce. If something happens, just use the soybean.


    What are you going to do? I was anxious.


    Did you recognize what the wild dog spirits cry sounded like? He asked.


    It sounded like someone crying, I answered.


    What else? asked Chuyi.


    It was like a wolfs howling?


    That was right, the wild dog spirits groaning and barking was simr to some wolfs howling.


    Chuyi nodded. Right, its like a wolfs howling. This wild dog spirit has almost be a wolf.


    I had almost cracked upughing. Dogs were dogs and wolves were wolves. Even though it was a powerful dog, how could it turn into a wolf?


    Chuyi shook his head. A snake can be a flood dragon and eventually a real dragon. Why cant a dog be a wolf? A dog that has be a spirit has the tendency to turn into a wolf. And now, that wild dog spirit is just a step away from bing a wolf. If we dont stop it, once it bes a wolf, there will be a big cmity in this vige.


    I was really astonished. <em>A dog had cultivated to be a spirit and now it was going to be a wolf? What kind of theory is this?</em>


    I hurried to ask Chuyi and said, Are you and Zen Master Baimei going to look for that dog?


    Chuyi nced over the wall of the ancestral hall and asked me, Do you know why that wild dog spirit doesnt dare go down the mountain and trouble us?


    I shook my head. Perhaps the vigers belief powers are rtively strong and it couldnt control their minds anymore?


    Chuyi said, Thats one of the reasons. Theres another reason, which is the presence of Zen Master Baimei and I. The strategy it has chosen is the longer-term one. We will run out of food and water soon, but its food source wont. We must make the first move.


    I went tense instantly. Are you and Zen Master Baimei going to deal with that dog directly? No, its too dangerous.


    Were not going to fight the wild dog spirit directly. Were going to leave this ancestral hall and lure it down the mountain. Then, well look for the Xiezhi horn.


    I was even more anxious now. But can Li Mazi and I beat the dog spirit? What if ites here and attacks the vigers?


    Dont worry. You just need to resist for half an hour. We will try toe back as soon as possible. Once we have the Xiezhi horn, that wild dog spirit will be backed into a corner. Keep the soybeans with you and youll be fine. If you cant stand it, just hide inside the ancestral hall and ask the vigers to read the sacred text of Daoism. There wont be any problems!


    I hesitated for a while before nodding. Worries were inevitable but since we were involved in this matter, we didnt have any other option.


    The folks are too dependent on me and Zen Master Baimei. If they know that we are leaving, Im afraid their belief power will be affected. Zen Master Baimei and I will leave discreetly. If something happens, tell them that weve arranged some magic formation outside. They just need to resist for half an hour and everything will be all right, Chuyi advised me.


    I nodded and repeatedly asked him to be cautious!


    Then, I mingled into the crowd.


    Ladies and gentlemen, please get some rest. We just destroyed that wild dog spiritsir. For the time being, it wonte down the mountain to trouble us, said Chuyi.


    When he spoke, everybody believed him. They found some spots inside the hall and sat down. They began to rest.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei seized the opportunity. When the vigers started to rest, they left from the back door. I called Li Mazi. We sat by the wall and vigntly listened to themotions outside. I also told Li Mazi about Chuyis n.


    When Li Mazi heard that Chuyi had already left, he became restless. Will the two of us be able to deal with that wild dog spirit? If we encounter danger, its not a big deal. The problem is that we have a bunch of vigers here with us!


    Iforted him. Its all right. Chuyi said that we just need soybeans and the sacred text of Daoism. We will be able to resist for a while.


    Although Li Mazi was worried, he naturally agreed with the n.


    The wild dog spirit seemed to know that Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei had left. Not long after they left, I heard dog barks from the mountain.


    It felt like something was trying to descend the mountain.


    As the vige was situated right at the mountain foot, we could hear every slightestmotion.


    As soon as I heard the noise, my heart began to race. I knew the wild dog spirit had started to attack us. I urged Li Mazi to take out his phone and keep track of the time. No matter what, we had to resist for half an hour.


    I stood up and warned the folks, The wild dog spiritsing! Everybody, be ready! We need to close all the doors and windows, back and front!


    The vigers became anxious and grouped together. They stood and held the doors tightly, calling for Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi on what they should do.


    However, they finally realized that Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei were nowhere to be seen. As such, they became so restless that they almost copsed.


    I hurried tofort them and calmed them down. When the wild dog spirit made its move, Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei went out to set up a magic formation outside the vige. As long as we resist for half an hour, they will be able to finish their powerful formation. By that time, even if the wild dog spirit had wings, it wont be able to escape!


    After listening to me, all the vigers exhaled in relief. Then, they cautiously watched outside.

 Chapter 158: Are You Looking For Me?

    Chapter 158: Are You Looking For Me?


    I asked the vigers to put up adder by the wall so Li Mazi and I could stand and properly check the situation outside.


    I saw several silhouettes walking stiffly. They staggered down the mountain.


    I recognized them. They were the folks that had chased us up to the mountain then went missing. Looking at them right now, I knew the wild dog spirit was controlling them. But I didnt know if they were dead or alive.


    I heard someone knock on the door, but those people hadnt reached the bottom of the mountain yet.


    <em>Whats going on? They havent reached the bottom of the mountain yet. Who is knocking on the door?</em>


    The sudden knocking also startled the people inside. They were nervous and looked at the gate. They asked me with frightened eyes, What should we do?


    Keep your eyes open. Im going to see who is knocking on the door.


    However, from my position, I couldnt see the other side of the wall.


    We couldnt do anything else but move thedder to another wall. I climbed up then looked at the wooden door of the gate.


    The area before the front door was empty. No one was there.


    I took a deep breath. <em>Whats going on?</em>


    I immediately looked at the mountain. I wanted to see if those bewitched vigers had descended the mountain.


    However, when I turned to look, my head went nk. There was no one there. No one was outside the ancestral hall. I didnt see anyone on the other side of the wall either. It seemed everybody had vanished into thin air.


    I wasnt convinced yet. I thought they were hiding in some corner. I had to check carefully!


    However, the remote corners were likewise empty. Nobody was there!<em></em>


    <em>Shoot, where were they? Where did they go?</em>


    I nced at the vigers, and there seemed to be more people now. I was scared. <em>Did they sneak in? But how?</em>


    If they actually came in, this ancestral hall wasnt a safe ce any more.


    It was now very dangerous! At the same time, we couldnt get out. I had a feeling that the wild dog spirit was hiding in some corner, gazing at us.


    I never expected that the situation would turn like this. This was beyond my control.


    I took a deep breath and forced myself to calm down. I nced at Li Mazi and signaled him to climb up.


    Li Mazi looked doubtful then climbed up thedder with me. I lowered my voice and asked him, Li Mazi, check things out. See if those missing folks are now mingling with the people here


    Li Mazi couldnt help but shiver while listening to me. What do you mean? How could they get in? The big gate and the back door are closed. We have people watching, too. The exits are all blocked.


    I then said, I dont know how they got in. But I can tell there are more people than before. You should check to see if the missing folks are in the hall.


    Li Mazi took a deep breath. Calm down. We cant let the vigers know about this. If they panic, they will do something crazy. Then things will be more serious, you know.


    I nodded. I understood this even better than Li Mazi did!


    Li Mazi observed things for a while then muttered to me, Brother Zhang, I have found something strange.


    What is it? I asked immediately.


    Tie Niu was dead, right?


    <em>Tie Niu?</em>


    <em>Right, Tie Niu had hung himself. Did Li Mazi see Tie Niu amongst the group of folks over there?</em>


    This thought struck me and made me sweat.


    Li Mazi whispered, Look at the north-east corner. Who is that man happily chatting?


    I immediately turned to look, and I was dumbstruck. Tie Niu, who had died, was now alive. He was chatting happily with the other vigers. Those vigers did not seem to remember that Tie Niu was dead.


    Holy moly, what the hell happened? I asked. That Tie Niu didnt look like he was possessed. He was pretty much a living human. I couldnt spot any ws in his appearance or behavior.


    Now look at the south-west corner, Li Mazi whispered.


    I immediately turned to see.


    After I nced over, I almost fell off thedder.


    In the south-west corner, a group was chatting. In the center of that group was another Tie Niu!


    Shoot, there were two of Tie Niu in the hall!


    I could understand if there was only one Tie Niu as it might be that wild dog spirits doing. Maybe it was so powerful it could control Tie Niu and resurrect him.


    But now, there were two of Tie Niu here. <em>What was going on?</em>


    I observed the folks and saw they were all smiling. It was as if they didnt know the danger they were in. They just happily enjoyed their conversations.


    I took a deep breath. It seemed the wild dog spirit had controlled them again.


    I immediately thundered, All of you have to chew the soybeans now!


    But it seemed like they didnt hear me. They continued their lively conversations.


    I shoved a handful of soybeans into my mouth and got off the wall. I hurried and put soybeans into the vigers mouths.


    It worked. After they had the soybeans and chewed on them, they gradually got together and nervously looked at the gate.


    After they woke up, the first thing I did was go to the north-east and south-west corners to see if Tie Niu was still there.


    Tie Niu was nowhere to be seen. The vigers were still talking and discussing how to resist the wild dog spirit.


    I checked the vigers once again. Their number didnt decrease. Instead, it increased again!


    <em>Damn, whats happening here?</em>


    When I turned to look at the crowd, I suddenly felt a hand pat my shoulder. I thought it was Li Mazi so I turned my head to one side to look.


    But when I saw the one standing behind me, I couldnt hold my scream. It was Tie Niu!


    He had a slight smile, which I found very scary. He even had a trickle of blood at the corner of his mouth.


    He grinned and said to me, Are you looking for me?


    I screamed and kicked Tie Niu away. Get off! Go away!


    Then, someone pped me and forced me to open my mouth. That person put something into my mouth. I heard Li Mazi shout, Chew it!


    I instinctively chewed. While chewing, my vision blurred. Tie Niu disappeared. He was reced by a young female viger, who was looking at me with fear.


    I immediately looked around. Everything was normal.


    Li Mazi pulled me aside. What happened to you? Did you have a hallucination?


    I took a deep breath. What happened? Why are you all fine? Why was I the only one who hallucinated?


    Haha, you asked us to chew the soybeans but you didnt, right? You got affected. Li Maziughed.


    I understood. I had worried about the folks and didnt think about myself.


    I couldnt help but burst out withughter. Oh right, I forgot about myself because of you guys. Who pped me just now?


    My face was still hurting a lot.


    Li Mazi grinned evilly and said, I did.


    Then, he told me that after I got on thedder, I started acting strange. I had even asked the vigers to move thedder to the door. He spotted my strange behavior and didnt allow the vigers to move thedder. He kept observing me the entire time.


    I had crouched in the corner and talked to myself. Li Mazi didnt know what I was talking about. A young woman came to give me water and I kicked her.


    I felt remorseful and apologized to the woman. The woman was scared. After seeing me approach her, she immediately hid into the group of folks.


    However, the knocking on the door continued.


    I asked the vigers to put thedder to the wall, and with soybeans in my mouth, I climbed up.


    However, as soon as I got there, a bloody hand reached over and grabbed my arm!


    I was scared. Goosebumps rose on my skin as I tried to shake that hand away!

 Chapter 159: Kneeling Down

    Chapter 159: Kneeling Down


    That hand was like a pair of pliers. Once it mped onto me, it didnt want to let go.


    A momentter, a gory face appeared from the other side of the wall.


    The mans face had changed beyond recognition. There was not even an intact piece of skin. One of his eyes sprang out and fell to the floor, while the other eye gazed at me from its dark socket. He whined and begged, Save us Please, save us


    Immediately, I craned my neck and saw that the missing folks had gathered outside.


    They were like lizards. Their bodies stuck on the walls. They were trying to climb up.


    While crawling, they also begged me. Save us. Please save us!


    I was startled and thought that I was seeing some illusion again. I tried to chew the soybeans. But they were still there, right in front of my eyes. It seemed they werent a hallucination.


    If I let them climb in, I was afraid that the vigers inside would be in big trouble.


    I didnt dare to tell the vigers about it. If they saw those gory monsters, they would be scared to death.


    I tried to shake the mans hand off my arm. He fell to the ground with a loud thud. However, right after, he got up and struggled to get on the wall. He spread his arms and threw them into the air. He looked very miserable as he looked at me. Please save me. Help me Im alive. Im still alive!


    <em>Hah, as if I would believe an undead!</em>I immediately asked the folks inside to give me a round stick. I then used the round stick to hit those monsters off the wall, one after another.


    However, whenever they were hit and fell down, they would climb up again. Eventually, I was tired and didnt know what else to do.


    The vigers didnt know what was happening outside the door. They were all flustered and frightful. Brother, whats going on out there?


    Iforted them. Its nothing. Everything is all right.


    Then, I heard a loud thud. It was as if something heavy had just fallen to the ground.


    I turned to look and gawked in fright. From the East wall, one of the missing vigers was climbing over the wall. He twisted his body in agony. In a weak voice, he called out, Hurry, save me! Hurry, save me!


    I was dumbstruck. Then, I got a hold of myself and bellowed at the folks, Guys, hurry! Get inside the ancestral hall. Do not linger outside. That mans an undead!


    Its the second son of the Liu family. Hes Old Lius second son! A viger recognized the man and screamed in fright.


    Li Mazi roared, That Liu is an undead. Hurry up,e with me to the ancestral hall. That man wants to eat human flesh!


    All the vigers were scared. They rushed like bees returning to their hive. They went inside the inner hall.


    Then, the missing folks began to go through the East wall by jumping into the courtyard. They crawled on the ground like slithering snakes.


    Li Mazi was worried about me and yelled, Little Brother Zhang, the situation outside is beyond our control. Theres nothing you can do with that stick. Hurry, get back to the ancestral hall! There are only ten minutes left before Chuyi wille back!


    I also knew that the situation was beyond our control. Those missing guys were smart. They had scattered, so that I couldnt poke them all and make them fall off the wall. I swiftly pulled thedder down and got into the hall.


    After closing the door of the ancestral hall, I tried to calm the vigers down. I taught them to read the sacred text of Daoism as Chuyi had advised me.


    I knew the wild dog spirit was nearby. From this close distance, I was afraid that the soybeans wouldnt work. I hoped that the sacred Text of Daoism could help us during thesest three minutes!


    The missing vigers slowly came from the other side of the wall. They all looked bloody with injuries. I didnt know whether they were still alive or walking corpses. I couldnt find out, either.


    They gathered at the ancestral hall and pounded on the doors. They begged us to open the doors for them, telling us that they were still alive.


    In the end, they were neighbors that had lived in the same vige for years. After seeing their beloved family members begging, no one could stand it. Moreover, standing on the other side of the doors were the fathers, mothers, and children of the many people that hid inside. At this moment, we were undergoing a real test; he had to decide between life and family affection!


    No matter what, we couldnt afford to be soft. I immediately warned andforted the vigers. I told them not to be fooled by their lies. They were now puppets controlled by the wild dog spirit. That wild dog spirit was using ourpassion to attack us. If we were soft, we would face devastating consequences.


    Since we didnt want to open the doors, the wild dog spirit couldnt stand still anymore. I saw a wild dog with golden fur jump on the two-meter-tall wall. It stood there and gazed at the big gate of the ancestral hall with its big, green eyes.


    It was my first time seeing a wild dog spirit.


    My first impression was that there was no way this was a freaking wild dog. It was obviously a wolf in human skin!


    It had fangs that dripped blood, and its cold eyes that gazed at the folks were full of endless resentment.


    When the vigers saw the wild dog spirit, they were panic-stricken. They screamed and ran around as they tried to find ces to hide in.


    However, during this critical moment, we should remain calm. Otherwise, it would be no different from giving the other party a chance to get to us. I was enraged and thundered, Stop! Our powers of belief and courage are enough to defeat this wild dog spirit! Read the sacred text of Daoism with me! Together, we can expel it!


    Li Mazi was the first one to sit down cross-legged and chanted the sacred text of Daoism with me.


    After he started chanting, the others followed. The eerie atmosphere slowly quieted down. I exhaled in relief and turned to look at the wild dog spirit that stood on the wall.


    The wild dog spirit jumped off the wall. All of a sudden, it stormed forward and bumped the gate of the ancestral hall. The doors grumbled and shook hard. This earth-shaking noise made the people inside panic!


    After I tried to calm them, the vigers quieted down and chanted the sacred text of Daoism with me.


    The wild dog spirit seemed to know it didnt have much time left. It became even more frantic. It continued to hit the door.


    After hitting the door dozens of times, the wooden structure couldnt withstand the damage anymore. However, the wild dog spirit stopped and looked at me.


    This time, its eyes didnt look fierce or malicious. Instead, it looked pitiful and begged me. Its tail also rose up.


    I knew what dogs wanted whenever they rose up their tails. <em>Is it begging me to forgive it?</em>


    While I was thinking, the dog knelt down on its front legs. Tears rolled from the corners of its eyes.


    I was dumbstruck. <em>What is it doing? Is it trying to look pitiful to getpassion?</em>


    <em>Youve yed me like a monkey before and now you want me to forgive you?!</em>


    The rock that hung above my heart finally dropped off. The wild dog spirit knew that it couldnt resist our besiege so now it wanted to kneel in front of us and beg for mercy.


    Soon after, the door broke open. Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi walked in. Chuyi held a horn that radiated green light.


    <em>Is that the Xiezhi horn?</em>


    When the wild dog spirit saw the Xiezhi horn, its eyes shed with a strange light, which disappeared shortly after. The dog spirit stood up and turned to Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei. It knelt down.


    When the two discovered that the wild dog spirit was keeping an eye on the ancestral hall, they became restless.


    Anyway, Zen Master Baimei grabbed his m beads. Evil animal, not surrendering already?!


    Then, Zen Master Baimei threw his m beads, which looped around the wild dog spirits neck.


    Chuyi quickly bit his middle finger. Then, he swiftly drew a strange symbol on the Xiezhie horn. He held it in his hand and slowly approached the wild dog spirit.


    The wild dog spirit was tied by Buddhist m beads, and it rolled and wiggled on the ground in great agony. However, it was persistent and got up. Once again it knelt and begged Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi.


    This time, both the monk and the priest were surprised. They didnt know what the wild dog spirit wanted to do.


    Zen Master Baimei snorted coldly. Merciful Buddha, you treacherous and cunning animal. If we spare you today, will you spare the lives of those innocent vigers tomorrow? Or will they tragically die?


    Chuyi started to read some mysterious but mesmerizing incantation.


    The wild dog spirit looked very ufortable. It seemed Chuyis incantation was torturing it, making it want to die. The dog continuously whined and choked on its own sobs.


    However, it didnt resist. It knelt in front of Chuyi.


    Zen Master Baimei tightened the prayer beads on the wild dog spirits neck. However, it tried harder to get up. Then, it knelt before Chuyi.


    It struggled like this until the wild spirit dog had blood running down from its seven orifices. All the blood ran toward the Xiezhi horn. Even after it was dead, it still remained in a kneeling position. Tears continued to roll down its face.


    After Zen Master Baimei confirmed that the wild dog spirit was no longer breathing, he heaved a sigh of relief. Then he retrieved his m beads and signaled us to get out of the hall.


    Everybody walked out carefully, as they were still fearful. After looking at the wolf-like wild dog spirit, they were all enraged. They grabbed weapons and prepared to dismember the dog into pieces.


    However, Zen Master Baimei stopped them. The wild dog spirit is dead. Our task now is to save the injured vigers!


    Then, people rushed to check on the wounded vigers, while some carried the wounded away. The rest of us remained in the massive ancestral hall.


    The people in the vige asked Uncle Zhong to stay with us.


    After looking at the wild dog spirit, I was astonished. It was a huge dog that had managed to live in the mountains without being noticed by the folks. This was really hard to believe. It was a menacing spirit that could kill people without blinking its eyes, howe it didnt do anything harmful to the folks until now?


    I asked Uncle Zhong about it, but he shook his head. No, the vige has always been quiet. We have never lost anything. No one has ever been hurt!


    This was strange.


    I turned and asked Zen Master Baimei, The wild dog spirit bowed to us. What did it mean by that?


    Zen Master Baimei smiled. That thing was afraid of death and wanted to live longer. It knew it didnt have a way back. Thats why it knelt in front of us and begged for mercy.


    I nodded. <em>Yeah, that should be it.</em>


    Uncle Zhong asked Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi to assist them with saving the vigers. There were several wounded and the vige didnt have a doctor. They were afraid that only Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei could save them.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei nodded. They went with Uncle Zhong to prepare the medicinal materials.


    However, when they were just two steps away, all of us heard some running water. The water sounds were low but audible. Zen Master Baimei halted and gasped in surprise. Then, he walked toward the wild dog spirits body.


    Ah, thats why. Thats why. Zen Master Baimei chanted Merciful Buddha several times. In the end, he couldnt hide his sadness.


    Zen Master Baimei, what happened? I asked him.


    Zen Master Baimei answered, The motherhood of the wild dog spirit just saved this entire vige.


    I was astonished. How does this rte to the wild dog spirits motherhood?


    We went close to the wild dog spirits body to observe it. Then, we found a puddle of translucent water underneath the dogs body. I was bewildered and turned to ask Zen Master Baimei, Whats that?


    Amniotic fluid, Zen Master Baimei answered. This wild dog spirit was pregnant


    She was pregnant? We were all astounded. It had knelt before us to beg us to spare its children?


    Zen Master Baimei gave us a slight nod. Then, he moved forward and used a dagger to cut the dog spirits stomach. Indeed, a centa that contained several puppies flowed out. They wiggled and curiously examined this strange world.


    Uncle Zhong grabbed an iron shovel and tried to kill the puppies. I shouted at him. Stop! What are you doing?


    Uncle Zhong said, We killed their mother. When these puppies grow up, they will attack us to take revenge! The wild dog spirit gave birth to them so they must be monsters!


    No, stop. I hurried to stop him. No matter what, they are innocent. You dont have any right to end their lives!


    I didnt know what would happen but I pitied the little puppies. They didnt do anything wrong. These folks shouldnt punish the puppies for the wild dog spirits mistakes.


    Uncle Zhong wasnt convinced. Zen Master Baimei, what should we do now?


    Zen Master Baimei took off his monk robe and covered all the puppies. I will take them and tame them. I can eliminate their natural magic properties.


    Uncle Zhong finally heaved a sigh of relief.


    Zen Master Baimei carefully handed me the puppies and asked me to watch them for a while. I looked at the puppies eyes and saw that they had watery eyes. My hatred toward the wild dog spirit had subsided. Now, I was somewhat admiring the mother dog.


    For its children, the wild dog spirit was willing to give up its own life.


    From another aspect, animals sometimes appreciated affection and bonds more than human beings did.


    A mothers love is great because it doesnt ask for any rewards. It only gives. This love will not change, even after ten thousand years. This event reminded me of an ancient poem.


    <em>Threads in the loving mothers hand</em>


    <em>Sewed on the clothes of her son, a wanderer</em>


    <em>Her prudent stitches done on the eve of his departure</em>


    <em>Worried about his return to be dyed andte</em>


    <em>Who dared say the love of an-inch tall grass</em>


    <em>Could repay the warmth and brilliance of three springs?</em>

 Chapter 160: The Old Mirror From the Tang Dynasty

    Chapter 160: The Old Mirror From the Tang Dynasty


    Most of the vigers that had gone missing were alive.


    ording to them, it was true that a long time ago, they had done something very unkind. They had got rid of a family of stray dogs because they didnt like it. They cooked the male dog with some chili peppers and made hotpot with the dog meat. At the same time, they killed the puppies with their iron shovels. The female dog was beaten up. Its legs were broken and then they hurled it down the mountain nk.


    This could have been the reason why the wild dog spirit had harmed them. It made sense, didnt it?


    No love exists without a cause; no hatred exists without a reason.


    Zen Master Baimei took the Xiezhi horn and the puppies with him. He told me that when the puppies grew up, he would give me one.


    Li Mazi eyed the Xiezhi horn and didnt want to let it go.


    Zen Master Baimei clearly understood how Li Mazi felt. After all, Chuyi had said that the Xiezhi horn could somewhat help cure Chu Chus illness.


    Zen Master Baimei smiled at Li Mazi. After I make medicine out of this Xiezhi horn, I will deliver it to you.


    Several days after we returned home, Chu Chus situation became worse. She began to lose her hair and her small face was very pale. She often had a high-fever and unconsciously rambled some nonsense.


    Li Mazi was scared. He took Chu Chu to a big hospital in Beijing where she was sent directly into the Intensive Care Unit. The doctor came up with a conservative treatment. They suspected that she had some unidentified cancer.


    Li Mazi agreed and was more than willing to use all of his savings on Chu Chu. But how could it be enough money?


    Yin Xinyue and I also supported Li Mazi a little. Li Mazi cried and said to us, I know Chu Chu wont be able to put up with it for a long time. I just want her to be able to livefortably during her remaining time.


    After looking at Chu Chus desperate situation, I was very scared. I was afraid that in the next second, Chu Chu would close her eyes and never open them again. I wondered if Li Mazi would ever get a hold of himself if that happened.


    Later on, while Chu Chu was in critical condition, Zen Master Baimei finally brought the Xiezhi horn he had refined into a medicinal pellet. After Chu Chu ate the pellet, her life was saved. However, she wasnt different from a person in a vegetative state. She was awake only for three or four hours a day. She spent most of the time sleeping


    In order to keep Chu Chu in the hospital for her treatment and care, Li Mazi went to the antique market almost every day to search for more work.


    The second business case after the Lunar New Year came around that time. Our client was a WeChat saleswoman from Beijing. She was rich and was said to have tens of millions of followers.


    WeChat agents were really popr right now. Almost half of my friends in my WeChat circle posted soapy boring advertisements that ranged from facemask to cosmetics to even whitening needles. I didnt know if they could actually earn money, but this woman in front of me looked really rich. She told me she was a front-line WeChat agent in charge of seventeen cities, with tens of thousands of customers.


    She asked to meet up at a coffee shop.


    The woman had an outstanding fashionable style with exquisite makeup. She had long, curly hair that went past her shoulders. Her essories were an LV purse, sparkling white gold rings, and a gold ne. The way she walked on the streets wasnt different from that of a real model.


    However, I naturally disliked flirtatious women like her. When we met, I didnt bother to study her appearance and directly asked her, What happened?


    She seemed very cautious as she discreetly took the mirror in the room and ced it face down on the table. Then, she muttered to me, Someone in the mirror keeps watching me.


    I was bewildered and looked at the mirror cluelessly. Whos watching you?


    Me, she answered.


    I tried to hold in myughter. Hey, are you all right? When you look in the mirror, the mirror will obviously reflect yourself. Who else could it be? It would be strange if there was someone else.


    She was panic-stricken. Are you even the real deal? How could you not understand what Im saying? I meant that theres another me in the mirror. Even when I dont look in the mirror, that me in the mirror still looks at me with resentful eyes!


    I took a deep breath and looked at her in disbelief. You said that even when you dont look at the mirror, there is still another you in the mirror? Are you sure its you and not anyone else?


    She nodded and said, Im telling the truth. Just name a price, how much do you want? Im very busy.


    As soon as she said that, her WeChat rang. She picked up her phone, checked it and answered the phone. It seemed she had recruited another WeChat salesperson as she was telling them the agent fee.


    I looked at Li Mazi, who couldnt be patient anymore. Ms. Song, if youre busy, how about we meet again when youre done?


    Ms. Song was infuriated. What do you mean? Is this your attitude towards a customer? I pay for your service!


    I looked at Li Mazi, who was fuming, and found it pretty normal. Actually, with his personality, he would have already mmed the table and stood up in the past.


    However, he was now thinking about Chu Chu and was in need of money, so he held himself back.


    Previously, he desired money because he was greedy. But right now, he desired money for the woman he loved. He now shouldered more responsibilities, which had made him more mature in dealing with people.


    You can finish your business first. Well wait. Li Mazi sighed andpromised in the end.


    Ms. Song kept talking on the phone for around ten minutes. After the other person on the line agreed to pay fifty thousand renminbi in agent fees, she put down her phone and stirred her cup of coffee. Tell me, how long do you need to solve this? How much do you want?


    I couldnt help butugh. Were not Daoist priests or ghost subduing masters. Were otherworldly merchants. Can you tell me when you started to feel that something was wrong? Is there anything strange in your house?


    The mirror in my house is what is strange, said Ms. Song. That mirror is an otherworldly item.


    I quickly exined, The so-called otherworldly items are all hundreds of years old. They arent ordinary items you use every day.


    Oh, are they? she said. You should go to my house and check!


    I nodded. If I couldnt see the otherworldly item, I wouldnt be able to handle the case.


    Ms. Song drove her BMW, which only had two seats. It seemed she had a good impression of me as she insisted that I get in the car with her. Li Mazi, on the other hand, had to take a taxi.


    Li Mazi was mad but he couldnt do anything but grit his teeth and agree.


    While driving, Ms. Song patiently told me what happened to her.


    It turned out Ms. Song wasnt native to Beijing.


    However, everybody who moved to Beijing for a new life shared the same dream: to pursue a Beijing household registration. Even though they couldnt have a Beijing household registration, they had to practice Beijing dialect, which would presumably give them the aura of a Pekingese. That was why when Ms. Song opened her mouth, she spoke like a typical Pekingese.


    People said that Pekingeses liked antiques and kept small pets. That was why Ms. Song had recently bought a lot of antiques. She even had an alpaca as her pet.


    The paranormal activities had started ever since she bought a bronze mirror that dated back to the Tang dynasty


    The bronze mirror had exquisite carvings. From the details, it was surely a royal product with a gold-ted frame and excellent sandalwood support.


    However, the precious feature of the mirror was its surface. The surface was very refined and polished. The reflection in the mirror was clear and precise, which made it not too different from a modern mirror.


    Ms. Song loved the mirror a lot. When she looked into the mirror, she saw herself much more charming and even sexier than her real self. She felt so proud when she looked into the mirror. Ms. Song was infatuated with this feeling. It was as if she was addicted.


    However, on the tenth day after she had bought the bronze mirror, Ms. Song found herself in a strange situation. When she got up early in the morning, she saw her reflection in the mirror, and the reflection couldnt catch up with her movements in real life.


    For example, when she checked her face in the mirror to put on some makeup, through the corner of her eyes, she saw her reflection stay still in the mirror. It was smiling at her.


    She turned and carefully checked the mirror, but it didnt show anything. Her reflection wasnt there any more.


    At first, she thought she was a little lightheaded in the morning so she didnt really mind it. However, the next day, she found the situation had gotten worse!


    When she checked the mirror, she often felt that the person in the mirror wasnt her.


    That person in the mirror often smiled at her when she knew she wasnt smiling!


    When she left her bed to use the bathroom at night, she heard some oddughter from the mirror. When she went to check the mirror, she saw herself smiling again.


    However, her smiling face shed then disappeared. She thought it was just a hallucination. She didnt mind this. She put the mirror in a drawer and didnt want to use it anymore.


    However, the next morning after she put the bronze mirror away, the situation had turned even worse! Not only did that bronze mirror reflect her strange self, but all the other mirrors in her house now had the same strange images.


    Sometimes, it was a bloody face. Other times, it was her smiling face. One time she saw a strange woman that wore clothes from the Tang dynasty. The woman walked back and forth in the mirror


    She was scared and didnt dare to stay in the apartment any longer. She moved out and rented a very expensive vi in the outskirts of the city.


    But the paranormal activities didnt end there. They just turned worse. She would see herself with the woman that wore Tang dynasty clothes in every mirror she used. Sometimes, she had strange thoughts that the woman wearing Tang dynasty clothes was actually herself.


    But the event that made her reach out to an expert was the horrible event that happenedst night. While she was sleeping, she felt very cold. She rolled and covered her body with a thick nket. However, as soon as she did that, she heard a voice that groaned, Im so cold.


    She was frightened and opened her eyes. Soon after, she was scared out of her wits.


    Someone was lying next to her, sharing her pillow. That persons eyes were dark. She had blood running from her eyes, mouth, ears, and even her nostrils. Her skin was dry and wrinkled.


    That persons face was pretty simr to her own.


    She screamed and jolted backward, trying to escape from the bed. However, as soon as she opened the door, the woman wearing the Tang Dynasty clothes appeared at the door. Her voice was cold and distant. She said, I want to live. So you must die.


    Then, she used her pale hands and grabbed Ms. Songs neck.


    Right at that moment, the rooster crowed. The female ghost shrieked then disappeared.


    Ms. Song was scared out of her wits. She immediately ran to the Panjiayuan Antique Market. It might have been her destiny that she saw Li Mazi, who had just arrived at the antique market to find work. Then, she invited Li Mazi to help her solve the case.

 Chapter 161: The Crow Caws, the Time of Death Arrives

    Chapter 161: The Crow Caws, the Time of Death Arrives


    After listening to her story, I roughly got the details.


    I remembered a long time ago I watched a short but popr show on the Inte. There was a student who was so bored that he decided to do an experiment with a mirror. From early morning tote night, he would use the mirror more than forty times every day and for five minutes each time.


    In the beginning, everything was fine. However, as time went by, strange things started to happen. At first, he noticed that he didnt recognize himself in the mirror. Later on, he couldnt control his mood anymore. He would sob orugh crazily and uncontrobly. He thought his reflection in the mirror was the real him and that he needed to follow what his image in the mirror was doing.


    Around one monthter, he discovered that he couldnt live without the mirror. When he was away from the mirror, the entire world felt empty. He didnt even feel alive. He just wanted to sit in front of the mirror all day long and watch himself.


    He couldnt eat or sleep well. He didnt brush his teeth or wash his face. Eventually, he became bony, his eyelids ck and his hair disheveled. He looked like a ghost.


    He started to have symptoms of schizophrenia. He thought he was just a replica and that the image in the mirror was the real him. He spent every day questioning his existence in agony. In the end, he couldnt endure the mental pressure and killed himself


    It was just an ordinary mirror but it was able to torment a living man until that point. Right now we were dealing with an unknown, ancient mirror that dated back to the Tang Dynasty.


    This Ms. Song was really courting death!


    How much do you use the mirror in a day? I asked her.


    Ms. Song hesitated then answered, Well, at first, I used it dozens of times. Then, sometimes, I spent the whole day in front of the mirror.


    I was startled while listening to Ms. Song. Even if she was a narcissistic, things shouldnt have gotten to this level!


    Why did you want to look at the mirror so many times in a day? I asked Ms. Song.


    Whats strange about that? Im a WeChat saleswoman. I work from home all day and do live streams. Sometimes, when Im bored, I will apply some makeup.


    I told her, If you use the mirror that many times, some mental problems could arise.


    Ms. Song cursed and said, Nonsense, are you even a real expert? Dancers have to practice in front of mirrors all day long. If it is as you said, all the dancers would have schizophrenia, wouldnt they?!


    They are different in nature. When they practice dancing, most of the time they focus on the movements from their hands and legs. They wont gaze at their faces. But youre different. Your focus is on your face. After a long time, it could cause some problems.


    Ms. Song didnt believe me. Youre talking nonsense.


    I knew I couldnt get it through her head so I didnt care.


    At first, Ms. Song brought me to the vi she rented at the citys outskirts. I walked around and checked things, but I didnt find any imbnce between Yin and Yang. Everything felt fine. I asked her to take me to where she had kept the bronze mirror.


    Ms. Song then drove me to the apartment she had rented.


    This apartmentplex was called Water Garden, and it was situated in Beijings Southern Third Ring Road. A one-hundred-square-meter apartment in this building cost at least five million renminbi. This woman was really rich. If I was in her shoes, I also wouldnt have liked to leave this ce.


    At the moment we arrived at Water Garden, we saw Li Mazi waiting for us at theplex entrance. After seeing us stroll toward him, Li Mazi was mad. Why are you sote?


    There was a traffic jam and we were dyed, I answered.


    Ms. Song nced at Li Mazi. You better change your attitude. Otherwise, I will reduce yourmission!


    Li Mazi was enraged but he couldnt show it. He tried to refrain his anger and followed the BMW to the building entrance. When we entered the elevator, Ms. Song suddenly squatted and covered her eyes. She looked scared.


    I was taken aback by her sudden, bizarre action. Ms. Song, are you okay?


    Ms. Songs voice trembled. I dont dare to look at the elevator wall. Thats not me reflected there.


    I took a glimpse at the elevator wall. It was metal and shiny like a mirror. We could clearly see our reflections.


    I couldnt help butugh. Ms. Song was really scared after that event.


    I was surprised to learn that she was living on the tenth floor. She was bold. Normally, single women lived on the fifth or the lower floors. The higher floors had more Yin energy, which was not good for feminine bodies. Also, if some bastard broke into their house and threw them off the floor, their bodies wouldnt be left intact.


    Ms. Song, why did you want to buy an apartment on such a high floor? I asked.


    I like it. Why do you care? Its none of your business!


    I couldnt hold myughter. Of course, Im not going to care. But you have to be careful. Its not good for a woman like you to live on a high floor.


    Why do you say so? asked Ms. Song.


    Why should I tell you? Its none of my business, after all. I snapped back.


    Up until now, Ms. Song had always looked down on Li Mazi and I. I felt irritated. That was why I had to show that we were no pushover.


    Ms. Song was eventually frightened. She apologized repeatedly and asked me to tell her the reason. After I exined things to her, Ms. Song was regretful and said she shouldnt have believe the real estate agency.


    As soon as we got into Ms. Songs apartment, I could feel some strange coldness! This coldness wasnt normal. It was the chill-to-bone kind of coldness that made people freeze from the inside out.


    I took a deep breath. Ms. Song, wheres the bronze mirror?


    Ms. Song took me to her bedroom and opened a safe. She took out the bronze mirror.


    The bronze mirror was very detailed and meticulously dainty, from the gold ting to the sandalwood frame and supports. I could tell it was a genuine product.


    Such a treasure was normally ced in a national museum. This was a very fine, high-ss item. How could a not-so-rich woman possess it?


    To be honest, although she had around ten million followers, she wasnt considered a rich woman in Beijing. She wasnt worthy of owning this bronze mirror.


    I guessed the one who had sold the mirror to Ms. Song wasnt a good person. It was likely that person did it on purpose


    Ms. Song, how much did you spend on this mirror?


    Not much, around five hundred thousand renminbi.


    She thought it would make her cool and powerful to show that she was rich. After all, she did spend five hundred thousand renminbi on a bronze mirror. However, I despised her in my heart. <em>Is this woman stupid or what?</em>


    Only the crafty gold-ted frame from the Tang Dynasty was worth a lot more than that. In fact, it would be strange if there wasnt anything shady about this precious mirror she could buy for only five hundred thousand renminbi.


    But I kept quiet. We will stay here tonight. I want to see how bizarre this mirror is.


    Ms. Song panicked and asked me, Do I have to stay too?


    I cast her a surprised sidelong nce. Ms. Song, if you dont stay, who will? The bronze mirror affects only you. Perhaps it wont work on us. Ms. Song then nodded in agreement.


    I turned the bronze mirror around to check it thoroughly. I found nothing strange about it, so I put it back on the dressing table. Then I looked at myself in the mirror for a while.


    This bronze mirror was really excellent. It wasnt much different from a ss mirror from modern-day. Although it was a little blurry at the corner, it must have been exceptional at the time. I guessed that only members of the royal family could use such a mirror.


    Li Mazi walked forward and gently knocked on the mirror. He asked me, So this toy costs around five hundred thousand? Oh boy, someone must think money is just trash paper.


    Ms. Song was angry. Why, is it not worth five hundred thousand? She started to quarrel with Li Mazi and insisted that it wasnt a bad deal


    I became interested when Li Mazi knocked on the mirror. When he did that, the sound the mirror produced was really strange.


    Normally, the sound made by someone knocking on a bronze mirror should be clear. However, the sound Li Mazi had created was hoarse, as if it was the cackle of an old Western witch from the eighteenth century. It also echoed for quite a long time, which was strange!


    I wasnt convinced so I knocked on it again. Indeed, it didnt produce the sound it was supposed to, but rather some muffled, hoarse sound.


    I hadnt started my investigation when something suddenly hit Ms. Songs window. Whatever it was, it broke the ss.


    The room immediately turned dead silent. We all turned to look at her balcony.


    A bloody ck crowy silently in the middle of the shattered ss. It was dead.


    I took a deep breath. <em>What happened to this ck crow?</em>


    I was pretty sure it didnt unknowingly hit the window. There must have been some reason behind this.


    I cant believe how low-quality this ss is! Ms. Song was so angry her face turned purple. I want to find the manager of this building. What kind of apartment is this?!


    I hurried to stop her. Ms. Song, please dont talk. We need to listen to themotion outside.


    Ms. Song was surprised and somewhat fearful. What do you mean?


    I hadnt answered and a flock of crows came to her window. They lined up and stared at Ms. Song with nk eyes.


    Ms. Song immediately came forward to shoo them away. The crows cried caw caw then flew away.


    What bad luck, fumed Ms. Song.


    Yeah, it is, sighed Li Mazi. People say that when the crow caws, the time of death is near


    Your stinky mouth cant say anything nice, can it? Whats this crow caws and time of death arrives nonsense? If you dont shut up, I will call the police right now and have you arrested!


    Seeing them about to quarrel again, I hushed them out. You shouldnt get angry. Im now sensing that the appearance of those crows is somewhat rted to the bronze mirror.


    I then asked Ms. Song, Have you ever experienced this same situation before, where a flock of crowse by and rest on your balcony?

 Chapter 162: Is That a Real or Fake Ms. Song?

    Chapter 162: Is That a Real or Fake Ms. Song?


    Ms. Song shook her head and said, This is the tenth floor. How could the crows fly that high up? Maybe you guys have a lot of Yin energy and that''s why you have attracted the crows


    Were not the problem. The problem here is the bronze mirror, I said then knocked on the mirror. Listen.


    Ms. Song listened but still hesitated. She asked cluelessly, What about that?


    Have you ever knocked on this bronze mirror? I asked.


    Ms. Song shook her head, No, do you mean that those crows were attracted to the knocking sound in the mirror? No kidding, my room is soundproof. People from the outside cant hear anything.


    I seem to understand whats going on. I suddenly thought of a possibility and felt excited. Is this sound simr to a crow cawing?


    Then, I knocked on the bronze mirror two or three times.


    Ms. Song and Li Mazi exchanged looks. Then, they gave me a nod. Yeah, it sounds somewhat simr.


    This mirror and the crows are rted, I said. Move, were going to catch some crows.


    Li Mazi was bewildered. Why do we need to catch some crows? Did they somehow provoke you?


    I dont know what this bronze mirror is, but if the crows reacted to it, it means the mirror and those crows have something inmon. We need to find this connection to deal with it! I need crow blood, I exined.


    Li Mazi immediately nodded. Okay, Ill go. You wait here with Ms. Song. This is a one-man job.


    Ms. Song nodded and said, Good, I agree.


    Well, if you agree, give me your car keys, said Li Mazi. Can I drive it? If I go now, I can return by tomorrow morning. Perhaps I could bring back two vultures to clear your bodies


    Li Mazi had thought about driving Ms. Songs car.


    Ms. Song was irritated and threw the key at Li Mazi. Do it quickly ande back early!


    Li Mazi fled immediately. I asked Ms. Song to put the mirror back in the safe. At this moment, I wasnt prepared and didnt have anything with me. If Ms. Song became charmed by the bronze mirror and went crazy, I couldnt do anything.


    After Ms. Song locked the mirror, she also locked the door and the windows. Then, she turned on the TV, sat on the sofa, and watched TV.


    The TV was showing a cosmetic brandmercial. Ms. Song excitedly told me that she was the agent for this cosmetic brand.


    Oh, your job isnt bad. You can sit home and earn money every day, I said casually.


    She began to blurt, Its not as easy as you think. Im a woman who came from another province. I dont even have a true friend. The friends I once had when I was poor are now jealous of my wealth. They have distanced themselves from me.


    Then, she cried and told me she was very lonely. She said she felt isted from everybody else. She just wanted to find a man she could trust. As long as he loved her, she would even provide for him. Unknowingly, she approached me and started to touch me.


    I got a headache. This woman was craving for a man? Although she looked beautiful and sexy enough for every man to drool over her, I wasnt aid-back guy. I thought about Yin Xinyue and immediately had a repulsive feeling toward this woman. I moved away from the sofa and cleared my throat. If its possible, I want to wait alone. I need to think about how to deal with this bronze mirror.


    After I rejected Ms. Song, she became infuriated. She jolted up from her seat and marched to her bedroom. She cursed me for not understanding romantic chances and told me that I would be poor forever.


    I cracked upughing. I thought that even if I had to beg for food, I wouldnt be her gigolo. I didn''t like women like her.


    I watched TV in the living room for a while, but my head couldnt get rid of the image of Ms. Song seducing me. I was annoyed and thought, <em>am I that charming? Why would women these days want to offer me their love?</em>


    <em>Should I find the right date and marry Yin Xinyue?</em>


    While my head was wandering, Li Mazi came back. After looking at his disheveled, sweating face, I felt annoyed. This man had used the elevator to get up here. Why did he look so tired?


    I asked him and Li Mazi answered, Why? Because of Ms. Song, that woman is freaking troublesome!


    The bedrooms door sprang open. Ms. Song stormed out and red at Li Mazi. What the heck did you just say?


    When Li Mazi saw Ms. Song, he cursed then fell off the sofa. He rolled on the ground. He gawked in shock and pointed at Ms. Song, Y-You? Why are you here?


    What the heck are you talking about? Ive been here this whole time. Ms. Song scoffed. Are you even a man? Talking ill behind someones back like that, how shameless.


    Li Mazis face paled and tried to gulp his saliva. He said nothing to defend himself. However, I knew Li Mazi had bumped into something weird. I told Li Mazi to ce the crows on the ground. Then, we went out.


    As soon as we got out of the apartment, Li Mazi rushed toward the elevator. It was empty. Li Mazi was frightened and said to me, There was a ghost! I just met a ghost!


    What do you mean? I didnt understand and looked at Li Mazi.


    It turned out when Li Mazi got up here, he saw Ms. Song standing by the elevator door. She smiled at him and immediately pulled him into the elevator. She hugged him, cried, and tried to kiss him.


    If this happened in the past, Li Mazi would have flirted back. However, as soon as the woman touched him, Li Mazi remembered Chu Chu. He pushed the woman away and said, Ms. Song, what are you doing?


    Ms. Song said nothing but hugged Li Mazi. She tried to kiss him again. Li Mazi got angry. He got out of the elevator halfway and went up the stairs.


    He saw that the elevator was going down so he thought that Ms. Song was going out to buy something. However, when he got into the apartment, he saw Ms. Song in the house. So, how could he not be frightened?


    After listening to Li Mazi, I had a cold sweat on my forehead. I could conclude that the person Li Mazi had seen was the one in the mirror.


    We had never expected that the image in the mirror could get out and act like a real person.


    I took a deep breath and felt scared as I nced at the elevators general direction. I was afraid that a disheveled Ms. Song would walk out of there and talk to us.


    When I confirmed that the elevator was empty, I heaved a sigh of relief.


    Li Mazi, we shouldnt tell Ms. Song about this. We shouldnt terrify her.


    Li Mazi nodded. Then, he asked a strange but interesting question. Are you sure the one in the apartment is the real Ms. Song and the one I bumped into is the fake one?


    The issue he had pointed out made my heart race frantically. <em>Oh right, how can I know that Ms. Song in the apartment is the real one and the one Li Mazi had met is fake?</em>


    <em></em>Although I wasnt so sure, I said to Li Mazi, Dont worry! Ever since Ms. Song came to us, Ive never left her side. Shes not fake unless the one who approached us was the fake one from the start!


    Li Mazi sighed and said, Not really. You were in the living room and she was in her bedroom, right? What if something happened during that time?


    No, thats impossible, I intervened resolutely. The bedroom only has one door and theres no other exit. Its impossible. Dont think too much about it.


    Li Mazi nodded and said, Okay then.


    When we returned, Ms. Song was sitting on the sofa. She was watching the crows.


    After seeing us, Ms. Song ran toward us and said, What did you just talk about out there?


    I waved my hand and said, Nothing. It was about unrted business.


    Ms. Song eased her mind. What should we do with these crows?


    I checked the ck crows and saw that they were acting strangely. When Li Mazi brought them in the room, they were still lively. However, now they were all dumbstruck and didnt move an inch. They all gawked in the general direction of the safe.


    The bronze mirror was kept in the safe. It seemed the bronze mirror did affect them.


    I asked Ms. Song to take the mirror out while Li Mazi and I grabbed the crows. We needed to draw their blood.


    The crows seemed to have lost their sanity and did not recognize that we were doing something to them. No matter what we did, they didnt wiggle. Their eyes only stared at the direction of the safe.


    Li Mazi was pissed off. You sted birds. All of you were that fierce earlier and you even pulled down my pants. Why are you so obedient right now? You damn birds!


    After we drew out their blood, the five ck crows should have died. However, they didnt close their eyes. Li Mazi couldnt stand it. He closed their eyes and suggested that we find a nice ce to bury them.


    Ms. Song ced the mirror in front of us. After I had finished the preparations, I asked the other two to move away. I used a brush and carefully smeared the crow blood all over the surface of the bronze mirror. After that, I stayed aside and watched the mirrors reaction.


    The crow blood rolled down the mirror and dripped on the table. In this dead silent room, the sound of fresh blood dripping had created a very abnormal atmosphere.


    We didnt dare to blink because we were afraid of missing something.

 Chapter 163: The Ghost In The Mirror

    Chapter 163: The Ghost In The Mirror


    The bronze mirror didnt seem to be stained with blood. After the blood oozed down and dripped away, the mirrors surface was clean and reflected the room. There was nothing strange about it.


    Li Mazi was the first to lose his patience. After all of the crow blood dripped down, he couldnt wait any longer. Brother Zhang, did it work? Why hasnt the bronze mirror reacted?


    I was also a little lost and sighed. Lets just wait then.


    Around one hourter, the mirror still didnt have any reaction. I knew this trick had gone in vain. I stood up, prepared to collect the bronze mirror, and asked Ms. Song to clean the crow''s blood.


    However, as I was walking there and was about to touch the mirror, I saw a vague figure that stood behind Ms. Song in the mirror.


    That person wore a white dress and had long hair. She looked somewhat simr to Ms. Song. From my position, I couldnt see her face clearly. However, I could feel that she had been gazing at us the entire time.


    I took a deep breath. My heart was pounding hard.


    Since when did that person stand behind the sofa? In other words, while we were watching the mirror, she was there. She was watching us, smiling coldly. It was as if she was mocking us.


    I didnt dare to turn around as I was afraid I would alert her. Carefully, I smeared some of the blood on the table to my hand and patted the mirror. I hoped this would work.


    The moment my hand hit the bronze mirror, a ghostly face appeared in the mirror!


    What was the deal with that face? It was covered in cuts. She was bleeding terribly. Her eyes bulged and one of her ears was missing. However, the ghostly face was lying horizontally as if its neck was broken.


    All of a sudden, it opened its gory mouth and showed its sharp teeth. Then, a sharp shrill drilled in my ears. I was scared and threw the mirror down. Then I retreated.


    Li Mazi caught me just in time. Otherwise, I would havended on my butt.


    I immediately turned around. There was nothing behind us. I didnt see anyone.


    I looked at the mirror. Nothing strange was there.


    I doubted I had just experienced a hallucination. Then, the dead crows began to move from the ground. Even more mysteriously, some of them pped their wings and flew out.


    "Holy moly!" Li Mazi gawked in shock. They arent dead yet!


    I immediately dashed to the balcony and looked down.


    Five crows had leaped up to the balcony and jumped down. They didnt do anything else but fall freely. Eventually, some of them hit the roofs of the cars that were parked on the ground. This produced a low thud sound. The cars rms went off.


    I had a headache now. I turned and said to Li Mazi, We should get down there and bury the crows. We dont want them to resurrect again.


    Damn! Li Mazi didnt answer me but panicked. Ms. Song... where is she? Wheres that woman?


    I checked the room. It was empty. The door to the house was open. We didnt have to guess what had happened... Ms. Song had run away.


    Shes just giving us more trouble! I scoffed.


    Come on, we need to find Ms. Song!


    I rushed outside. Li Mazi followed closely behind me.


    However, when we reached the bottom floor, we still didnt see Ms. Song anywhere.


    There was something wrong with this situation. I forced myself to clear my head. I closed my eyes and contemted it.


    When I checked on the crows earlier, I had asked Ms. Song to clean the blood. Then, when I ran outside, I heard the sound of water run from the toilet. What if Ms. Song didnt get out of her house but was washing the towel in the bathroom?


    The apartments door opening must have been a trick of the mirror to disturb our thoughts and make us go downstairs. Meanwhile, it would stay and attack Ms. Song.


    I got a headache, turned around, and rushed toward the elevator. I saw it was lingering on the twelfth floor. It didnt go down, no matter how hard I pressed the button. I could only use the stairs.


    Li Mazi followed closely behind me. Whats going on?


    I think Ms. Song is in danger. We should go back. I told him.


    We havent found Ms. Song yet and you want toe back? How can we protect her then?


    I scoffed, Ms. Song hasnt left her house! Did you see her run away?


    If Li Mazi hadnt said anything, I would have gone to the bathroom to find Ms. Song as the first thing.


    Li Mazi patted his forehead. Oh shoot, weve been tricked! That woman better not die! If she dies, we cant avoid the responsibility!


    When we got back to the apartment, we found Ms. Song in the room. She was admiring herself in the mirror.


    I exhaled in relief. It seemed our guess was correct.


    Ms. Song, are you all right? I asked immediately.


    Oh, Im okay, Ms. Song answered with a smile.


    You should put the mirror away, I suggested.


    Ms. Song smiled. Why should I? I want to put it here. I like this mirror. Every time I use it, I look so beautiful.


    I was astonished. Ms. Song now acted so nice and proper. It seemed she was now apletely different person


    Li Mazi poked at my waist. I turned to him, and I saw Li Mazi shaking his head. I understood that he was doubting the woman in front of us. This woman wasnt the real one.


    The mirror had tricked us into going downstairs so that it would have a chance to rece Ms. Song. After thinking about this possibility, I shuddered.


    That mirror was very powerful if it could even swap itself with a real person!


    I didnt dare to think about it any more and just nervously watched Ms. Song. She was upied with herself.


    She was wiping and cleaning the crow blood. Her hand moved tenderly and meticulously as if she loved the mirror very much. It seemed she didnt want to let the red hue of crow blood stain her mirror.


    I cleared my throat. Ms. Song, how about you return to the vi? Tonight, we will stay and watch this ce.


    Ms. Song answered, No, how could I do that! This ce is my house, and you said that the bronze mirror affects only me, right?


    Li Mazi pulled the hem of my shirt. I turned to look at him. He pointed at the door. I understood what he meant. He didnt want to be involved in this any more.


    I took a deep breath and said to Ms. Song, Ms. Song, how about wee back here again at night time?


    Good! Ms. Song agreed without a bit of hesitation.


    Obviously, the woman in front of us wasnt normal. If she was the real one, she wouldnt dare to stay here alone.


    I left with Li Mazi. When we got into the elevator, Li Mazi told me, Things arent right. That one isnt the real Ms. Song.


    I looked pensive and gave him a nod. Do you believe that there are two people in the world that look exactly the same? Or, do you think theres some item that could perfectly clone someone?


    Li Mazi was scared because I had used the word clone.


    He immediately shook his head. Brother Zhang, dont scare me like that. I think Ms. Song was affected by the bronze mirror. Shes still Ms. Song, but now she has schizophrenia.


    But we cant exin the other Ms. Song you had bumped into, I debated.


    Li Mazi didnt talk and just looked at the elevator doors in fright.


    After a long moment, Li Mazi asked me, How do you intend to solve this?


    I answered gravely, Ill ask Yin Xinyue to fetch me the Sirius Whip.


    Li Mazi was surprised. What? You want to continue with this case?


    I nodded reluctantly. I cant let someone die without helping them. Also, in my profession, nothing should be left undone.


    Li Mazi could only nod.


    That day, I asked Yin Xinyue to go back at my ce and send me the Sirius Whip by express service.


    Yin Xinyue knew that I had a business case in Beijing, and she was worried about me. Before leaving, she repeatedly asked me to put my safety above everything else.


    I smiled and pulled her to my chest. I took out the ring I had prepared and slipped it onto her slender, soft finger. I smiled. When Ie back, we should get married.

 Chapter 164: Ms. Songs Temptation

    Chapter 164: Ms. Song''s Temptation


    Yin Xinyue was thrilled and shed tears. Excitedly, she said, All right, well get married when youre back.


    After seeing Yin Xinyue leave, I felt full of guilt toward her.


    For the entire year, the time we had spent together was less than the time we spent apart. This was due to me working away from home. And, every time Yin Xinyue had apanied me on my trips, she had to endure danger.


    <em>Once we get married, I dont think I can even give her the security she needs. Would my rushed proposal harm her?</em>


    After thinking about this, I felt even more guilty.


    I now had an odd thought. After this case was over, I would wash my hands and retire. In the future, I just needed to collect and trade antiques. It would be enough to make ends meet for my family.


    However, I didnt know if Yin Xinyue would reprimand me. She was a beautiful and smart white-cor woman. Meanwhile, I was just a joke. I was a lowly member of some freaking dissenting group Sigh, thinking about it gave me a headache. I simply stopped thinking about the matter.


    I kept in contact with Yin Xinyue through my phone until I knew she was safe and sound at home. My worries were finally lifted.


    I was worried that the bronze mirror could somehow affect Yin Xinyue.


    These days, when I had free time, I would circle around Ms. Songs apartment building. Every time I went there, I saw that her door was locked. I thought that perhaps she hade to stay in the vi. Thats why I wasnt so concerned.


    Also, during this time, Ms. Song didnt call or ask me to deal with the mirror. These were enough indications to conclude that the woman in Ms. Songs apartment wasnt her real self.


    I had a big doubt in my mind, though. Where had the real Ms. Song gone?


    On the third day, the Sirius Whip that Yin Xinyue sent me had arrived.


    I kept the whip with me and prepared some items. Then, I called Ms. Song and told her that I wanted to solve the case of the bronze mirror. I told her to wait for me in her apartment.


    Ms. Song agreed and told me that she would go to the apartment.


    I could hear her panting as if she had just done <em>that</em>. I couldnt help butugh. Ms. Song was indeed interesting.


    When I arrived at the building, Ms. Songs house was open. She was wearing a nightgown. She sat on the sofa and showed a seductive smile.


    The hem of her nightgown was too short. While she sat on the sofa, thece fringe of her underwear was exposed. I could clearly see her long, fair legs. When she saw mee in, she purposely shifted her legs.


    I couldnt help but cough and tried to control my mood. I didnt look at her and said, Ms. Song, please behave yourself. Wheres the mirror? After I deal with it, I need to leave. I have some other business to do.


    Ms. Song smiled but said nothing. She came over and locked the door. Then, she slithered on my body like a snake.


    <em>She smells good!</em>


    Her fragrance seeped into my nostrils, making me unable to control myself.


    I took a deep breath. Then I gathered all of my courage and pushed her back on the sofa. Ms. Song, please behave yourself.


    Ms. Song still had a charming and lustful smile on her face, and she even shook the strap off of her gown.


    I cursed and turned around in an attempt to break the door. Who knew if she was a human or a ghost? No way I would get intimate with her!


    However, the door was locked. I couldnt push it open.


    I turned around and looked at her with rage. What do you mean by this? Im calling the police if you keep doing this!


    Oh, call the police. She smiled and said, I really want to see if the police will arrest me or you.


    Go to hell, I scoffed. Who are you, after all? Youre not Ms. Song. Spit it out. What do you want?


    I coldly red at her and took out my Sirius Whip. We had already gotten into an argument. There was no use in hiding it.


    When Ms. Song saw the Sirius Whip, she wasnt scared at all. I didnt expect that reaction from her at all. It was quite awkward because she kind of weed me and pulled the Sirius Whip. Oh, it turns out you like SM. Very good,e here. Im ready.


    Then, she pushed me to the ground with one hand. She started to crazily kiss me.


    <em>Somethings wrong! Why isnt Ms. Song scared of the Sirius Whip?</em>


    The thick aroma on her body swarmed my nostrils. I recognized that my consciousness was drifting away. I couldnt control my body. Her sexy body and her wless face were irresistible.


    My body eventually reacted. I had forgotten every moral or ethic. I was surprised that I had fallen to her tricks so easily.


    <em>What the heck is going on here?</em> I wanted to chant the sacred text of Daoism. However, at this moment, my brain went nk. I couldnt recall a word of the sacred text. My head was now full of lustful, dirty images


    I couldnt hold it anymore. I turned and put her under me. I started to attack her crazily.


    However, right at this critical moment, my phone rang. My numb consciousness became clear for a moment.


    I immediately took my phone out. My blurred vision couldnt see the iing call number. However, I could still figure out where the answer button was.


    Li Mazis voice came from the other side. Brother Zhang, where are you?


    Ms. Songs apartment, I answered in a daze.


    Whos there with you? asked Li Mazi.


    Ms. Song, I answered. Whats wrong?


    "Dont be scared. Listen to me, Li Mazi continued. I went to Ms. Songs vi and I heard her voice. She was screaming for help. Im standing right outside her vi and I can still hear her calling for help. You You should quickly escape that ce and meet me at the vi.


    Okay. Although my heart was beating fast, I answered him calmly then hung up.


    Ms. Song wanted to hold my neck. She was groaning inaudibly.


    I tried to read the sacred text of Daoism. Then, my lost consciousness returned to me.


    I got up from Ms. Songs body. I didnt try to be a gentleman. Instead, I used the Sirius Whip and hit this shameless Ms. Song. Give me the key.


    Ms. Song was dumbstruck under mysh. She dropped her jaw. Y-You


    Im so sorry, I like men, I told her. Li Mazi is my lover.


    Impossible, impossible Ms. Song looked at me with disbelieving eyes.


    She was bewildered and stared at me. I didnt bother to discuss with her. I directly searched for the key under her short grown. I opened the door then left.


    I had actually wanted to bring her to the vi with me to see if we could find the real Ms. Song.


    If we found the real one as well, we could make the two talk face-to-face.


    However, I quickly erased that thought. This woman wasnt afraid of the Sirius Whip. It would be hard for us to defend ourselves, let alone dealing with her.


    It was good enough that I could escape safely.


    Eventually, I walked out safe and sound. She didnt chase after me butid there, mumbling, Why? Why?


    It was as if me being gay was even harder to exin than the existence of UFOs.


    I didnt dare to take the elevator. Right now, I was somewhat afraid of shining things that could reflect images.


    I ran down ten floors in one breath. When I got to the bottom, I was out of breath. However, I didnt bump into any danger or obstacles. There were only a few people waiting for the elevator. They looked strangely at me because I wasnt using the elevator but the stairs instead.


    After I got out of the building, I called a taxi, heading to Ms. Songs vi.


    Li Mazi was waiting for me at the door. After seeing me, he greeted me with someints about me beingte.


    Its already a miracle that I coulde here. What happened? Did you call the police?


    Li Mazi forced a smile. What should I report to the police? That someone inside the vi is screaming? What if they arrest me for making a false rm?


    Li Mazi had a point. I couldnt do anything but to leave the police forter. I approached the vi and carefully listened.


    Indeed, I heard a feeble voice. It was calling for help from the vi.


    I took a deep breath and grabbed the Sirius Whip. Then, I gently knocked on the door.


    I didnt expect to find the door unlocked. As soon as I knocked on it, it opened by itself.


    The moment the door squeaked open, a strange, evil wind blew out from the inside. The gust of wind brought some stench. I immediately recognized it was the smell of a corpse.


    Ms. Song? I frowned and called at the door. But nobody answered me. I brought Li Mazi in. We searched around the house.


    The deeper we entered the house, the thicker the pungent smell had be. It was so bad that I couldnt breathe.


    <em>Where is this corpse smelling from? I can smell something burning, too.</em>


    I ran to the kitchen. But there was no sign of a stove being used.


    Li Mazi was worried that some dead body was inside. He thought that we were in the house without a convincing reason. He pulled me to leave.


    I also thought that it wasnt good to get deep in this and agreed to leave. Before leaving, we needed to think of a way to make the police notice the situation here.


    However, when we came to the door, we heard a thudding sound. It seemed something had just fallen. I even heard the water dripping.


    I halted and turned around to check. There was nothing strange.


    Then, a bizarre wind blew out from the bathroom. The stench of the corpse came from the bathroom.


    I exchanged looks with Li Mazi and pointed to the bathroom. Li Mazi picked up a mop from the ground. He was ready to go in and check with me.


    As soon as Li Mazi picked up the mop, I saw blood on it and felt scared. Although someone had washed it with water, there was still a lot of blood, which was really frightening.


    Li Mazi was scared and threw the mop aside. He pulled out a pair of gloves and put them on. Then, he tried to rub the mop. He was afraid that he would leave some fingerprints, which would cause the police to suspect him.


    I walked with Li Mazi, and together, we stepped towards the bathroom.


    As soon as we were near, I was shocked. I saw a puddle of a thick, dark liquid. Soon after, we saw a block of something that was burnt. It was lying on the ground and was oozing the dark liquid. There was some foam covering that thing.


    I was attracted to that thing. While I was about to go closer to check it out, Li Mazi screamed, Oh shoot, oh shoot! RUN!


    Then, he grabbed my arm and dashed out of the vi.


    Although I didnt know what had scared Li Mazi out of his wits, if it made him that scared, I was sure it was something I couldnt deal with. That was why I followed him and ran away.


    When we got out, I stopped and looked at Li Mazi nervously. What did you see back there?


    Li Mazi said, Ms. Song is dead. She was skinned and was hanging on the ceiling fan


    <em>What the</em>


    My scalp went numb. I looked at Li Mazi in the eyes. Are you sure?

 Chapter 165: The Skinned Female Corpse

    Chapter 165: The Skinned Female Corpse


    If you dont believe me, you can check it yourself, said Li Mazi. Call the police! We must call the police! Lets wait a while then tell them we smelled the stench. Thats why we came to the vi to check it out.


    Then, Li Mazi took his phone out of his pocket.


    I didnt want to believe it since I couldnt exin the cry for help we had just heard.


    Even if Ms. Song was murdered and became a ghost, it was broad daylight. How could she scream for help?


    I wanted to check but Li Mazi said he wouldnt enter the house again, even if I beat him up.


    The skinned corpse is too scary, he said.


    Feeling helpless, I walked into the house alone.


    Since Li Mazi had prepared me in advance, I wasnt that scared. I carefully approached the bathroom.


    When I saw the scene inside the bathroom, my heart almost stopped beating.


    A person was hung on the ceiling fan. It was slowly swaying!


    That person was skinned. The muscles seemed burnt. Everything looked charred like charcoal.


    It was strange that both of her feet were wet and dripped fluid. I didnt know what had happened to her.


    Inside the bathroom, there was a puddle of blood that was diluted by water. I could see pieces of torn skin floating


    I couldnt stand it anymore. I walked out of the vi and puked.


    After I vomited, the police in the neighborhood arrived. After they went into the house and saw the scene, they also rushed out and puked. Then, they called the criminal police division to help.


    We were called to the police station by the criminal police division. We had to give our reports on the case.


    Since neither of us was suspicious, they released us after they took our oral confessions.


    Li Mazi and I then went to the hospital, full of worries.


    What to do now? Ms. Song was dead and she had been burned very badly. I guessed it would be pretty hard to identify her unless they took her DNA.


    Furthermore, was the woman that lived in the apartment going to rece the real Ms. Song? This whole matter was too strange, and I wasnt fully convinced.


    I turned to Li Mazi and said, What do you think? Should we continue to investigate or just ignore everything? Should we let the woman from the mirror rece Ms. Song and live her life?


    Li Mazi ran his fingers through his hair then answered seriously, Brother Zhang, I know that youre soft-hearted and that you hate evil. I also know that its immoral to stay idle, but Im not a saint, and I no longer want to deal with this case! Im just amon guy who wants to live in peace and have a quiet life with my lover. I dont want to step in this quagmire Promise me that you wont continue with this case. Its better if we leave it alone, dont get us all involved.


    I kept silent. I didnt know what to say or what I should do.


    I admitted that I wasnt an ideal role model, and I couldnt do things like sacrifice myself to kill demons. I simply felt sorry and guilty for breaking the rules of otherworldly merchants.


    I wasnt sure how to proceed. I stared nkly at the ground.


    Li Mazi knew that I was not paying attention to his words. Eventually, he sighed and walked toward me to pat my shoulder. He asked me to quiet down and to think about things thoroughly. He then left me there and entered the room to take care of Chu Chu.


    This matter had troubled me for several days in a row, and I couldnt even sleep well. Whenever I closed my eyes, Ms. Song and her skinned body appeared in my mind, ming me for ignoring her case.


    I was tormented and felt distressed.


    One day, out of the blue, Chuyi called me. When I picked up the phone, the man on the other end of the line kept silent.


    I asked, Brother, why did you call me?


    Chuyi said, Li Mazi asked me to call you. Thats why I have called you. If you dont have anything to say, Im going to hang up.


    I smiled. Chuyi was very straightforward.


    All right, I have a problem.


    What is it?


    I told Chuyi the story of the bronze mirror from start to finish. Then I asked him, Should I get involved in this case?


    Chuyi stayed silent for quite a long time. Eventually, he said, Stick to your gut feeling. If you think its right, its right. If you think its wrong, its wrong. There is nothing to be troubled about. Then, he hung up.


    I looked at my phone and sighed. What Chuyi had told me was no different from giving me no advice. I hoped that he would tell me something to make me understand...


    I hung up the phone and looked at my empty room. I sank into my thoughts.


    However, at this moment, my phone rang again. After ncing at the screen, I shuddered in fright.


    <em>Ms. Song was calling!</em>


    <em>Why is she calling me?</em> If she knew I wanted to deal with her, she should avoid me.


    I took a deep breath and hit the answer button.


    Ms. Songs voice was still seductive. She said, Come to me tonight. I want to invite you to dinner.


    After listening to her, I was surprised. <em>Ms. Song invited me out for dinner? What the heck is going on?</em>


    As I was hesitant, her voice turned into begging. Mister Zhang, please, you muste here! Otherwise, someone will die. Im begging you.


    Then, she hung up the call.


    I was baffled. Why did that fake Ms. Song sound so simr to the real Ms. Song? She was imitating the other one, wasnt she? It was how she could officially blend in and adapt to Ms. Songs daily life.


    Then, I called Li Mazi. How is it going with the police and the skinned corpse case?


    These days, I haven''t read any news about this case. I knew it was definitely being suppressed. But Li Mazi should know something about it.


    Li Mazi said, No one came to retrieve that body. Its now a case without any clues.


    I guessed the fake Ms. Song must have had some insider help within the police bureau. I shook my head and sighed. I told Li Mazi that Ms. Song had invited me to dinner.


    Li Mazi listened to me and became bewildered. She invited you to dinner? Isnt this like the story of the fox paying the chicken a visit on New Year? Im sure this is a Hongmen Feast. [1]


    I nodded. I also thought that it was a feast with the intention to harm me. However, Ms. Songs attitude was really weird. If she wanted to harm me, it wasnt very smart to do it this way.


    For the time being, I couldnt make up my mind. I looked at Li Mazi and hesitated about whether I should go or not.


    In the end, Li Mazi said reluctantly, All right, Brother Zhang, its better if you go. If you ignore this, your mind wont be at ease for the rest of your life. Im going with you. If something happens, well call the police.


    I was thankful and patted Li Mazis shoulder. No, Im going alone. You stay in the hospital and take care of Chu Chu. I feel that its not as simple as it seems


    Li Mazi smiled and said, How can I stay idle and see you take such risks?


    Then, he stretched his sore back and lifted his cup of tea, drinking it. Lets go! Even if the sky falls, we will lift it back up!


    On the way there, I asked Li Mazi about Chu Chus situation. Li Mazi smiled bitterly. Chu Chus awake for two or three hours a day. She cant eat hard food. She can only drink some liquid food.


    Do you regret it? I asked.


    Li Mazi shook his head. No, I dont. I have never loved anyone like I love Chu Chu. Im crazy about her.


    Chu Chu had taught him a lot of things, love, affection, friendship


    While talking, Li Mazi burst out weeping. My heart ached and I didnt know what I could do to help them.


    The most painful thing in this life is looking at your loved ones dying and not be able to do anything about it.


    I knew Chu Chus chances of survival were very small, and Li Mazi should spend more time with her.


    <em>Sigh!</em><em>After this case, Li Mazi should wash his hands and retire before he sinks deeper...</em>


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feast_at_Swan_Goose_Gate

 Chapter 166: Parasitic Ghost King

    Chapter 166: Parasitic Ghost King


    After I reached Ms. Songs apartment building, I hesitated a little before knocking on her door.


    Shortly after, an unkempt woman came to open the door. She reeked of alcohol. If it wasnt for her voice, I could hardly believe that the beggar-like woman in front of me was the luxuriously dressing Ms. Song from the past.


    I was startled by her appearance. Ms. Song, are you okay?


    Ms. Song looked panic-stricken. She took us into her house then quickly closed the door. Then, she sprinkled a lot of cinnabar at her door before sighing with relief. She was so flustered she almost cried.


    Li Mazi lowered his voice. Little Brother Zhang, what happened to this woman? She said she wanted to invite us to dinner, but her house is a mess. Im sorry, but Ive lost my appetite.


    I shook my head as I didnt have a clue, either.


    Ms. Song made us two cups of tea and sat across from us. Is there anybody following you?


    No. You should tell us what happened to you.


    The Parasitic Ghost King... Do you know what it is? Ms. Song hurried to ask.


    The Parasitic Ghost King? Li Mazi and I asked in unison. How did shee with this name all of a sudden?


    I knew the Parasitic Ghost King. A Ghost King, as its name suggested, was a sort of intimidating ghost. If we categorized ghosts, we roughly could divide them into three levels. There were upper, intermediate, and low levels.


    Themon lonely and resentful souls that couldnt reincarnate would eventually be Ghost Kings.


    Since the required conditions to create a Ghost King were extremely harsh, the chances of encountering one were really low. It was even smaller than the chances of winning the lottery. That was why for years, people couldnt verify if such a ghost still existed.


    Since Ms. Song had just mentioned the Parasitic Ghost King, there should be some otherworldly item that involved a Ghost King. If so, I wouldnt be able to handle this!


    Ms. Song, could you borate? I asked the woman.


    Nervously, Ms. Song started to strip off her clothes.


    I was so angry that my face turned purple. Are you tired of living?! Do you think this is the time to flirt with men? If you dont stop, we''ll leave!


    Ms. Song waved her hands continuously. No, dont misunderstand. I want to show you something.


    Then, she took off her shirt. Her skin was bright and soft as if it could be broken with a blow of the wind. It was very tender.


    <em>Even if she uses milk to bathe every day, she shouldnt have such smooth and firm skin!</em>


    Li Mazi turned his head to one side. He didnt dare to look at Ms. Song.


    Ms. Song slowly turned around and showed us her back.


    I was speechless. Ms. Songs smooth back had a spot of wrinkled skin. It was shaped like an oval and looked like a face.


    Furthermore, that oval face had what seemed to be eyes, a nose, and a mouth. I could even see some fine hair above its forehead.


    I looked at the face in disbelief.


    It was actually a human face. The more I looked at it, the more familiar it was!


    I pulled Li Mazi and gestured at him to look at Ms. Songs back.


    Li Mazi gasped then pointed at Ms. Song. This face Isnt this your face? Howe you have two faces?


    Ms. Song said, You should use the bronze mirror to check.


    My heart started to beat fast. When Li Mazi said that the face on her back was exactly like herself, I was shocked.


    Sure enough, Li Mazi was right. That face and Ms. Song looked really alike! Although it hadnt been developed fully, its form and facial features resembled Ms. Songs.


    I used the bronze mirror to check the face, and I couldnt help but gulp.


    The bronze mirror wasnt like a modern ss mirror. The face in the mirror was a little blurry.


    However, in the blurry mirror, the face turned more three-dimensional. It was actually Ms. Songs face with bulging eyes. A cold sneer hung on the faces mouth. It was really frightening.


    At this moment, I seemed to understand what had happened. I sneered then put the bronze mirror back on the table. I said, Ms. Song, what attracted you so much, that you didnt even hesitate to kill your own sister to get it?


    Ms. Song turned gloomy and absentmindedly put her clothes on. You knew?


    Its as clear as day. How could I not know? I shouted sharply.


    In order to create a Parasitic Ghost King, the victims closest family member had to torture her to death. Then, she would take her soul out of her body. This way, it would make the soul strong and full of resentful energy.


    However, this was just the first step.


    One then needed to nurture the soul in the body of the victims closest family member. It was best if it was the victims twin sister or brother since their date and time of birth were almost the same. The souls wouldnt reject each other but would slowly fuse. Eventually, it would be a rare twin soul.


    The final step was to use some evil magic to refine the twin soul to create a Ghost King!


    During this process, there was one item that yed the most important role: the bronze mirror. Since this mirror could affect people''s souls, it was like surgical sses that doctors used when operating on a patient.


    This pair of twin sisters had been tricked.


    I patiently exined this to Ms. Song. She had tears all over her face. Its my fault. Its because of my greed! That man told me that after the thing was done, we would take my sisters wealth and live together! He never told me that it would take my sisters life! Im begging you. Please save my sister! Im so sorry...


    I burst outughing. You dont have a brain, do you? Do you think that after youve obtained your sisters wealth, that man would still stay with you? Youre also part of his n, youre bound to die.


    Ms. Song wiped her tears. I suspected that much. Thats why Ivee to you for help.


    I took a deep breath. All right. First, you have to tell me everything. Ill see if I can help you. You must tell me everything about the bronze mirror, including its origin.


    Ms. Song nodded. I will. I will tell you everything.


    It turned out the real Ms. Song was dead. This woman was Ms. Songs twin sister, Song Yushu.


    Their parents had divorced when they were really young. Song Yushu lived with her father while Ms. Song lived with her mother. However, after her mother passed away, Ms. Song went to Beijing alone to work. Eventually, she earned her wealth and achievements.


    At the same time, Song Yushus father was an alcoholic gambler. Eventually, he dirtied his hands with drugs, and he ended up in jail.


    Song Yushu had no ce to go and didnt have any skill. Eventually, she decided to go to Beijing and live with Ms. Song.


    Ms. Song was really happy when her sister came to live with her. She treated her very well.


    However, as time went by, more and more disputes burst out between them.


    Ms. Song had been establishing her career in Beijing for years. She didnt depend on other people and made her own decisions. She was a strong woman. On the other hand, Song Yushu lived with her father and had learned bad habits from him. She asked for money and went to bars. She had fun all night long.


    Ms. Song was displeased. She often talked to Song Yushu and asked her to find a decent job. If she couldnt do anything else, she could still work like a WeChat saleswoman like her. The ie would be enough for her monthly expenses.


    Song Yushu did that. However, all of her money was wasted at restaurants, bars, and on men. Eventually, she found a handsome gigolo and told her sister that she wanted to marry the man.


    Ms. Song exploded in rage. She disdained this sort of leeching men. She had a big fight with Song Yushu.


    Song Yushu thought that Ms. Song looked down on her. She persistently left the house. However, after she left the house, she started to experience how horrible and difficult it was to be homeless. She understood her sisters intentions but she couldnt put her ego aside to return home.


    Ms. Song tried to find Song Yushu. However, Beijing was a big city. How could she find her sister so easily?


    When Song Yushu almost copsed and had to sleep on the street, she bumped into a rich and handsome man in an Inte coffee shop. That rich man treated Song Yushu well. He looked like a responsible man and he didnt regret spending money on her.


    Of course, there was no such good thing in this world. After spending a lot of money on Song Yushu, he told her that hispany recently encountered problems with turnover. He wanted to borrow Song Yushus money to ovee the situation.


    Song Yushu didnt have a single cent on her. However, after seeing her beloved mans depressed face, she decided to ask her sister for money.


    When she told her rich, handsome boyfriend her idea, he told her that he was afraid he would need to use all of Ms. Songs properties to help hispany. Of course, Ms. Song wouldnt agree to let them borrow all of her money.


    In the end, the handsome boyfriend came up with a solution. At first, they would deceive her in taking the money. When hispany returned back to normal, he would pay back double the amount to Ms. Song.


    Although Song Yushu wasnt willing, she couldnt stand to see her boyfriend begging. She agreed in the end.


    The man immediately asked Song Yushu to give the mirror to Ms. Song. He told her it was a birthday gift. It happened to be their birthday so this gift was given easily.


    When Ms. Song saw the mirror, she was pleased. Then, she gave Song Yushu a car that cost five hundred thousand renminbi. That was why Ms. Song told us she had bought the mirror at the price of five hundred thousand renminbi.


    Ever since she gave Ms. Song the mirror, Song Yushu suddenly realized that her rich, handsome boyfriend had disappeared from her life. No matter how hard she tried, she couldnt contact him.


    Then, everything unfolded the way her boyfriend had nned. As time passed by, Song Yushu recognized that her thoughts were controlled. She had cruelly murdered Ms. Song in the vi, skinned her, and burned her corpse


    After listening to the whole story, I sighed. I pitied Ms. Song. She was murdered for so little and turned into a resentful ghost.


    Song Yushu was really malicious, and she had even used such vile methods to deal with her twin sister!

 Chapter 167: Black Gold Powder

    Chapter 167: ck Gold Powder


    However, I was still a little doubtful. Song Yushu told me that she was being controlled, so why did she sound normal now? She also knew that her rich, handsome boyfriend had plotted against her. How did she even know about the Parasitic Ghost King?


    How could that air-headed woman know about the Parasitic Ghost King?


    Song Yushu exined that yesterday, a man found her. He cut his finger and fed her a drop of his blood. Then, she finally woke up from her confused state.


    That slender man told her everything. Song Yushu was scared. She knew her boyfriend had plotted against her. She begged the man to save her.


    The man told her to find me because only I could save her.


    I obviously knew that the man who had woken up Song Yushu was Chuyi!


    I took out my phone and showed Song Yushu a picture of Chuyi. Song Yushu recognized him immediately. Chuyi was the man who had saved her yesterday.


    I smiled as my heart began to feel warm. I had just spoken to him on the phone. He worried about my safety so he came over to help me.


    <em>But since</em><em>he was here, howe he didnt contact me before he left? Where did he go?</em>


    I told Song Yushu not to worry. Then, I called Chuyi. He must know how to deal with this bronze mirror.


    I didnt expect that we would hear Chuyis phone ring from the corridor outside.


    I was startled and ran to open the door.


    After the door opened, I saw Chuyi carrying a woman on his shoulders. He entered with a cold face. When he saw me, he gave me a slight nod as a greeting.


    I was surprised. <em>Who is he carrying?</em> I immediately opened the door wider. Chuyi threw the woman on the sofa. I saw that it was Ms. Song.


    <em>What was going on? Ms. Song was dead, wasnt she? Who is this person?</em>


    Ms. Song and Song Yushu were in the same condition. They looked dirty with worn-out clothes; they seemed beggars. However, Ms. Song didnt have any wounds. It looked like she was sleeping on the sofa.


    When Song Yushu saw Ms. Song, she burst out crying. She stormed forward and hugged Ms. Song, crying and apologizing.


    Chuyi signaled at me and Li Mazi to pull Song Yushu away. Song Yushu painfully struggled. She looked so regretful that her face started to turn pale.


    I hurried to ask Chuyi, What happened to this Ms. Song? Wasnt she the skinned, burned corpse?


    Chuyi shook his head. No, Ms. Song didnt die. She was imprisoned in a secret underground chamber.


    "Who was that dead person?


    Just a beggar on the street, the man said. The other party used that corpse to trick us in order to make us think that Ms. Song was dead.


    Really? I was bewildered. They say that the closest family member has to torture the victim to death and take the soul out to create the Parasitic Ghost King. Ms. Songs still alive, so how are they going to create the Parasitic Ghost King?


    Chuyi stretched his slender finger and lifted Ms. Songs eyelid. He said with a cold smile, Come and see if her souls still there.


    I checked Ms. Songs eye, and I was taken aback. Ms. Songs pupil looked vacant. It seemed as if her soul wasnt there.


    I looked at Chuyi in puzzlement. He exined, After taking out the soul, one must ensure that the body doesnt rot. Thats how they can create the strongest Parasitic Ghost King! That beggar was killed to ensure that Ms. Songs body wouldnt rot.


    I suddenly understood. A soulless body couldnt live. Had that person forced the beggars soul into Ms. Songs body?


    This thought gave me a cold sweat. However, after looking at Chuyis eyes, I knew this absurd exnation was true.


    Damn! Li Mazi was enraged. For a stupid Ghost King, he dares to kill three people. That bastard sure has guts! Why didnt that beggar, who was skinned and killed, be an evil ghost and haunt him?


    That beggar wasnt burned. He was soaked in strong acid, which eroded his body. Then, his soul was extracted and restrained with a special method Chuyi exined.


    Li Mazi and I wrapped our heads over these words for a while.


    What should we do next? I asked Chuyi.


    He turned to look at Song Yushu. Next, I need Ms. Song Two to cooperate with me.


    Song Yushu said, For my sister, I will do anything.


    Chuyi nodded. Then, he asked me to carry Ms. Song to the bedroom. When I walked out again, I saw him observing the bronze mirror.


    I furrowed my brows. Chuyi, do you know the origin of this mirror?


    Chuyi looked pensive. I cant confirm anything right now.


    Then, he asked Song Yushu to take off her shirt.


    It seemed Song Yushu was used to being naked in front of men. She stripped off her clothes without any hesitation. Chuyi held the bronze mirror and shone it over the face on Song Yushus back. At the same time, he bit his finger, mumbled something, and used his blood to outline the face reflected in the mirror.


    Something strange happened after that. Song Yushus body twitched and convulsed as if she had gone crazy. I looked at her with worry. I was afraid she would die.


    A momentter, she slowly turned around. Tears rolled down from the corners of her eyes. No man is good!


    She gritted her teeth as she stressed each word.


    After hearing her voice, I knew it was the real Ms. Song.


    It seemed Chuyi had forced Ms. Songs soul out.


    I nervously looked at Song Yushu. I didnt know who was standing in front of us.


    Tell me the date of your birth, Chuyi demanded.


    Humph! Even if my soul vanishes, I wont let you get what you want! Ms. Song snorted.


    Chuyi slightly frowned. Youre stubborn! Im here to save you


    I walked forward. Ms. Song, were here to save you. Even if you dont care about your own life, you have to think about your sister. If you dont cooperate with us, you and your sister will be someones Parasitic Ghost King. Then, you would likely do something that people hate and the heavens grudge against. You wont even have a chance to reincarnate.


    After all, they were blood sisters with a strong bond.


    Ms. Song stayed quiet for a while then agreed. As long as my sister survives, Ill do it.


    Chuyi said, Dont worry. Im here now, and you guys will be alright.


    Ms. Song told us the date of her birth. It was June 22nd, 1990.


    After knowing her birthday, Chuyis face changed. He took a deep breath and studied Ms. Song.


    From my impression of Chuyi, he only had two facial expressions. They were either nkly cute or an expression with the words, The page cannot be disyed over them.


    He had changed his usual expression so I knew there was something wrong with Ms. Songs birthday. Is something the matter?


    The man said, I seem to know this bronze mirrors origin! The other party wanted to turn the Song sisters into a Parasitic Ghost King because he wants them to rece the thousand-year-old resentful soul in this mirror


    I really wanted to ask who the thousand-year-old resentful soul was.


    However, Chuyi waved his hand. We should solve this other problem first.


    Then, he took a sip of water and sprayed the bronze mirror. The bloody face he had drawn on the mirror disappeared. Song Yushu closed her eyes and fell to the sofa.


    However, she soon got up with tears on her face. She pulled her hair and screamed, Sister, its all my fault!


    I guessed that Ms. Songs speech had touched Song Yushu.


    Chuyi told me, Zhang Jiulin, go to the market and buy some ck Gold Powder. I need to use it.


    ck Gold Powder? It was the first time I heard the name. I didnt know what to do.


    Chuyi hesitated for a while. In the end, he took out a small notebook and jotted down an address and a number. I could call the number to contact the seller of the ck Gold Powder.


    I didnt ask much and left.


    After I had followed the address Chuyi had given me, I found a second-hand market near Beijings Panjiayuan Market. In the deepest corner, I found the man selling ck Gold Powder.


    When I saw him, I was astounded. It was the old man who had swapped his fate with some mice, back when Li Mazi and I dealt with the Golden Perianth. <em>Chuyi sent me to this man?</em>


    I was baffled for quite a long time when I saw him.


    However, when he saw me, he didnt look surprised. It was as though he had expected me toe.


    I didnt say much. When he knew that Chuyi had sent me, the old man took me to where the ck Gold Powder was.


    When I saw the process involved in making ck Gold Powder, I almost puked. The so-called ck Gold Powder was a mixture of dark gold and human pelvis ground into a powder.


    The old man didnt find it nauseous enough, so he exined, Its not easy to make the ck Gold Powder. The gold we use here is taken from the dead and the pelvis from someone who hadmitted suicide


    After I got the ck Gold Powder, I hurried to report to Chuyi. After being in the same ce as that old man, I was disturbed.

 Chapter 168: Song Of Everlasting Sorrow

    Chapter 168: Song Of Evesting Sorrow


    After I returned, I was a little confused and asked Chuyi, How could they extract gold powder from some corpses?


    In ancient times, there was a torture that forced people to swallow gold powder until they died. When the heavy metals in their body exceeded a certain threshold, these people would die.


    I shuddered. This type of torture was too wasteful. Normal people could not understand it.


    Chuyi continued, Everythings ready. We have to wait for our chance now.


    I was worried as Chuyi had only prepared the ck Gold Powder and nothing else. I brought the Sirius Whip. Will it work?


    Chuyi sighed emotionally. Shes also a woman with an unlucky fate. We dont need to go that hard on her.


    I knew he was talking about the thousand-year-old resentful soul in the mirror.


    Song Yushu kept weeping next to me, which was really annoying. I wanted her to stop.


    However, Li Mazi told me that Chuyi had asked her to cry because he needed to use her tears tonight.


    Well, the items Chuyi required were all strange. From my impression, when a Daoist priest subdued ghosts or demons, except for peach wood swords, they would only use talismans.


    We waited until dawn. Chuyi finally stood up and woke up Song Yushu. She was sleeping after she had cried a lot.


    Are we going to take action now? Song Yushu asked.


    Chuyi nodded then told us the next steps.


    We remembered his n.


    Then, he used the leftover crow blood fromst time and marked Song Yushus seven orifices.


    Crow blood could attract negative things, and the seven orifices were the ces where ghosts were most likely to enter the human body.


    <em>After smearing the crow''s blood on her face, will the resentful soul in the mirror try to possess her body?</em>


    However, Chuyi had his reasons for his actions. I didnt question him.


    He took out ab and sprinkled ck Gold Powder on it. Then, he handed Song Yushu theb and asked her to apply some makeup in front of the mirror.


    Song Yushu received theb and used the bronze mirror to apply some makeup.


    With dabs of blood on her face, her image in the mirror looked terrifying. However, she was still checking it and doing makeup. This looked like a scene from a horror movie.


    My eyes were fixed on the bronze mirror. I knew that if something abnormal happened, it would show in the mirror first.


    Soon enough, strange things appeared in the mirror. Song Yushus reflection in the mirror started to blur. After, it reached a certain level of blurriness, it became clearer and clearer.


    The mirror showed an exquisitely beautiful face. Thats when I knew the resentful soul in the mirror had finally shown up.


    However, that stunning face only appeared for a while. It vanished shortly after.


    Since it had showed up for just a very short moment, I wondered if I was hallucinating.


    As I was thinking, a strange wind blew through the room from the southeast corner to the northwest corner.


    Chuyi immediately signaled me. I quickly ran toward the bronze mirror and sprinkled the ck Gold Powder I had kept in my pocket on it. Then, I held the mirror tightly to not let the powder wash or blow away.


    The moment I clutched the bronze mirror, Song Yushu began to roar angrily. She forcefully grabbed my arms. With a strong pull, she hurled me away and reached her hand toward the bronze mirror.


    Li Mazi made a quick decision. He wielded the peach wood stick that had Song Yushus tears and moved toward her.


    Song Yushu seemed to be very afraid of the tears. She immediately retracted her hands and backed away several steps.


    However, she didnt want to let go of me, either. She swiftly stormed toward me.


    I knew Song Yushu had been possessed by the evil thing in the mirror. I got up and was prepared to run.


    Chuyi swiftly stood in front of me. He coldly shouted at Song Yushu, who was approaching us. Stop!


    Chuyis shout seemed to carry endless, subduing power. His voice made Song Yushu tremble unceasingly. Eventually, she had to lean against the wall to steady her body.


    Evil creature, Chuyi said with an icy-cold face. Its been thousands of years and time couldnt wash away the resentment in your heart. If you dont let go today, dont me me for being merciless.


    Haha. Song Yushuughed coldly. Men, none of you are nice! You must die! All of you must die!


    Then, she didnt hesitate and charged forward.


    Chuyi looked at Li Mazi. Li Mazi immediately used the willow twig that was dipped in Song Yushus tears. He used it tosh at the woman continuously.


    Song Yushu was afraid of the willow twig. Li Mazi forced her backward until she reached the remote corner.


    Why? Why?! Song Yushu suddenly screamed and whined. Why do you all want to bully me?! I died but I still cant find peace!


    Song Yushu charged forward one more time.


    Li Mazi hurried to wave his willow twig in an effort to resist!


    However, this time, Song Yushu didnt avoid him. The moment the willow twig hit her body, a strange wind exuded from her. It directly attacked me.


    I was startled and turned around, preparing to run away.


    But it was toote. The strange wind blew onto me and made me tremble. I was sent to the ground. The bronze mirror in my hands had be as heavy as a one-thousand-kilogram stone. It was getting heavier and heavier as it was pressing and suffocating me.


    Chuyi cried, The ck Gold Powder!


    Li Mazi received the order. He took the stic bag of the ck Gold Power I had bought and smeared all the contents onto the bronze mirror.


    The bronze mirror became lighter on me, so I put it down.


    The bronze mirror wiggled and jolted like a big koi. It sent the ck Gold Powder in the air. Chuyi immediately used his hands to press the mirror down. However, it was struggling so hard he couldnt keep it still.


    Eventually, he said coldly, I gave you a way to live but you didnt treasure it. Dont me me for being cruel then!


    Li Mazi used the willow twig and whipped the bronze mirror. However, it jumped higher and bounced harder. Through the ck Gold Powderyer, I vaguely saw a woman with peerless beauty. She was screaming and struggling like crazy. However, she made no sound.


    The willow twig was no use now. In the end, Chuyi directly sshed the entire bowl of tears onto the mirror.


    The bronze mirror went frantic in the blink of an eye. It vibrated as if it now had a motor. It nged noisily on the ground. The beautiful woman in the mirror turned old and ugly at the very same moment. Her face had a lot of wrinkles. Her skin loosened and sagged. Eventually, she had be like a dried corpse that couldnt wiggle much.


    Chuyi used the ck Gold Powder to cover the mirror entirely, the mirror finally stopped vibrating. Everything returned to normality.


    I exhaled. My body went soft, and I crouched to the side. Is it over?


    Chuyi shook his head. No, Ive just temporarily sealed it. I will need to bring the mirror to Dabei Temple and see if Zen Master Baimei can give peace to this resentful soul.


    I was disappointed. I couldnt believe that even Chuyi couldnt deal with the soul in the mirror.


    I was curious and asked Chuyi, Whos the resentful soul in the mirror? How can her grudge be so strong?


    Chuyi answered, Shes Yang Guifei.


    Yang Guifei?! I was astonished and dropped my jaw in shock. I looked at him disbelieving.


    Li Mazi also stuttered and said, You mean that the one sealed in the copper mirror, the thousand-year-old resentful soul, is Yang Yuhuan? One of the Four Beauties of Ancient China?


    Chuyi nodded and said, Thats right.


    Li Mazi and I were shocked. We couldnt get a hold of ourselves after quite a long time.


    I recalled the woman in the mirror, who was a little curvy with an exquisitely gorgeous face. I felt that only Yang Guifei could have such beauty!


    The woman who was said to be so beautiful that even birds and fishes were captivated by her, that even the moon and the flowers were jealous of her She was the most beautiful woman of the Tang dynasty, and we had just seen her.


    Yang Guifei was born on June 22nd, which is the same birth date as the Song sisters. Thats why its easy to turn them into a Parasitic Ghost King in order to rece Yang Guifeis soul. Thats also why the two were plotted against, I suppose, Chuyi said silently. He nced at Song Yushu. People who were born on that time and date are weak. They should have something to believe in. Otherwise, people willy their evil eyes on them.


    Why did you use those strange things to deal with Yang Guifei? I asked Chuyi. If Yang Guifei was Emperor Xuanzongs most beloved consort, how did she end up being sealed in this bronze mirror?


    Chuyi sighed. Ancient people used to say that beautiful women often had poor fates. For a woman in the pce harem, in order to survive, she must use her beauty to obtain the emperors love. She must try her best to get close to him. Eventually, she was used of a crime against the country. She was killed in Mawei.


    Yang Yuhuan was born during the most glorious time of the Tang dynasty.


    She was gifted with singing and dancing talents. She was much more talented than most people.


    Later on, Li Mao  the Prince of Shou married her. They were a loving couple.


    However, her beauty was enough to shake the country. One day, she had mesmerized Li Maos father, the incumbent Emperor Xuanzong, with her beauty. At first nce, Emperor Xuanzong was stunned! He thought she was a deity and he had yearned for her crazily.


    Eventually, he ignored what people called incest and took his sons wife. He made her his Guifei.


    Emperor Xuanzong had treated Yang Yuhuan very well. For example, when she wanted to take a bath, the emperor renovated Huaqing hot spring into her exclusive private pool.


    Yang Yuhuan liked lychees and Emperor Xuanzong didnt hesitate to send his subordinating royal horse service to run eight hundred miles to deliver lychees from Lingnan, only to please Yang Yuhuan. Later, this event became known as the story of exhausting horses to death in exchange for the concubines smile.


    However, the feast soon ended. Emperor Xuanzong spent every night with Yang Guifei and ignored his imperial court. Eventually, it led to the Anshi Rebellion. The rebellious force killed all the way to Changan.


    To avoid the war, Emperor Xuanzong brought his cortege to Mawei. As they had never liked Yang Guifei, the generals forced Emperor Xuanzong to leave his throne that night and used Yang Guifei of harming the country. They forced the emperor to kill her or else, they wouldnt help him get back his nation.


    In desperation, Emperor Xuanzong had to bestow death upon his most beloved concubine.


    This sorrowful love story waster written into the great poem, <em>Song of Evesting Sorrow,</em>by Bai Juyi. The two most famous verses include, The boundless sky and endless earth may pass away, but this vow unfulfilled will be regretted for aye!


    Yang Guifei had a tragic death in the end. At first, she was fed with gold powder. This was aimed to destroy her grease-like skin. Then, the emperor gave her a strap of white silk tomit suicide.


    After Yang Guifei ate the gold powder, her skin turned really bad. A woman who relied on her beauty to survive had her skin destroyed. How could she be willing? She checked herself in the mirror every day.


    However, in the mirror, she was still ugly. She thought the bronze mirror was blunt and that it couldnt reflect her beauty. She asked her servant to polish it with crow blood.


    The bronze mirror became clearer but her face became uglier day after day.


    She had to use her best cosmetics to cover her damaged face. Powder and lipstick could cover her face but they couldnt patch her mental wound. Yang Guifeis tears streamed down her face every day. This also washed away her makeup, which showed her damaged skin. Eventually, Emperor Xuanzong didnt love her anymore. Shemited suicide in Mawei.


    Yang Guifei died but her soul couldnt rest, as it was bound to this bronze mirror.


    That was why Yang Guifei was afraid of the ck Gold powder and tears from a woman. These two things had destroyed her beauty. Although she was now just a stuck soul, she still kept the habits she had when she was alive.


    Since she had used crow blood to wipe the mirror, it exined why it could attract the crows!


    I sighed and felt pensive.


    <em>Is it true that beauty always brings disaster? I wasnt so sure about it. Yet, a woman who gets what she wants and obtains her position thanks to her beauty is like a candle me flickering in the wind. No matter how high she has climbed, she could fall at any minute.</em>


    Yang Guifei was happy because she was born with a beauty that could bring down a country.


    However, Yang Guifeis life was also a tragedy because she was born with such beauty!

 Chapter 169: Pentakill Widow

    Chapter 169: Pentakill Widow


    Chuyi didnt have a method to help the resentful soul in the bronze mirror. In the end, he had to bring it to Zen Master Baimei in hopes that he could use his Buddhist method in Dabei Temple to free Yang Guifeis soul.


    After we subdued the bronze mirror, the dark hand behind the curtain seemed to have given up on creating the Parasitic Ghost King. The Song twins gradually recovered.


    Ms. Song gave me three million renminbi for themission. She told me I deserved the amount. If it werent for me, her sister would still date men and bezy. She might have gotten into more trouble if it werent for these events.


    I sighed. ording to the old customs, it was said that a woman better marry a good man or have something she was really good at. If she only used her appearance topete for things, then she was like a flower that would soon wither away.


    Chuyi visited Chu Chu, who had been really weaktely.


    Do you have any clues about the Night Dragon Bait? I asked Chuyi.


    When I get any clues, I will tell you guys immediately.


    How long does Chu Chu have? Li Mazi asked Chuyi.


    Chuyi looked pensive for quite a long time. Eventually, he said, Lets ask Senior Shu. Hes a wise man with vast knowledge. Perhaps he has a solution.


    Senior Shu, the person Chuyi had mentioned, was the old man who was involved in the Golden Perianths case.


    Chuyi called Senior Shu. When Li Mazi saw the old man, he was surprised. He didnt think that the despicable old man would appear here.


    Senior Shu ignored us and lifted Chu Chus eyelid to check her eye. Then, heughed. Its the Thai mind control! Tch tch, you have many enemies.


    Li Mazi fumed and said, We asked you here to check the patient, not to mock us.


    Senior Shu immediately waved his hand and grinned. I checked. Its really serious and basically incurable. If she wants to eat anything, give it to her. If she has anyst wishes, fulfill them for her! If you linger any longer, you will not have another chance


    Li Mazi was enraged. He balled his fists and was ready to hit Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu was amused and looked at Li Mazi. He wasnt afraid of being hit.


    I immediately said, Senior, you have a lot of experience. Im sure you know of a cure, right? As long as you can cure my sister-inw, I will ept any of your conditions.


    Senior Shu looked at me with his shifty eyes. Are you sure?


    "Of course, I answered.


    Senior Shu ruffled his beard. Uhm, I have a solution but Im afraid you wont dare to do it.


    What is it? Li Mazi was so happy. For Chu Chu, even if its business with the King of Hell, I will still ept it.


    Then, youre going to marry a wife. Are you happy about that? Senior Shu answered with a smile.


    Senior Shu, please do not beat around the bush, just go straight to the point.


    Im not beating around the bush. Senior Shu wasnt pleased. If you think I said some nonsense, then Ill leave now. Im not here to do a thankless job!


    Chuyi said, Continue.


    Senior Shu seemed to be really afraid of Chuyi. He became more honest and said, You guys should find a widow who has been married at least five times. She should be someone who has caused her husbands death then remarried! If she looks attractive, you should hook up with her. The dowry she brings should have some powerful otherworldly item. After that, take the otherworldly item and make Chu Chu wear it. Well be using poison to treat poison


    After Senior Shu exined, I saw Chuyis eyes brighten up. I was as if he had understood something.


    Will it work? I asked Senior Shu.


    I dont know if itll work for sure. But in theory, it should.


    Li Mazi and I didnt know why marrying a widow who had harmed her previous husbands could save Chu Chu. We were both hesitant. However, Chuyi agreed.


    Are you sure about this? What if it doesnt work? Wont we just harm Li Mazi? I asked Chuyi.


    The husband doesnt always die because of the womans ill luck. It could also be because of something she keeps with her as a dowry. That item might absorb Yang energy and nurture Yin energy. If we can find that otherworldly item and let Chu Chu wear it, it could continuously absorb the Yang energy from other people and strengthen her vitality.


    I couldnt help but force a smile. Is this a scientific exnation of the husbands death?


    As Chuyi saw that we were skeptical, he continued his exnation.


    Actually, items that can absorb Yang energy to nurture Yin energy are not only found with widows. It could be some antique in your shop. However, this sort of item doesnt create any strange phenomenon. Its hard to find. However, if a widow has been married five times or more, Im sure shes haunted by such an otherworldly item.


    He continued and said, Have you ever noticed that a widow who has remarried at least five times never looks ugly? Her skin always glows as if shes just gotten married. This is because she has obtained some dowry that can use Yang energy to nurture her Yin energy. Its like eating supplements daily. Its good for her body and skin. Its the only method we can use to find that sort of otherworldly item.


    Both Li Mazi and I were surprised. This reasoning was too weird. I thought it would be really hard for Li Mazi to marry a widow who had been remarried five times


    Sure enough, Li Mazis face became green.


    Chuyi could recognize our worries. He said calmly, Actually, you dont need to marry her. As long as you can befriend her and find the otherworldly item she possesses, you can buy it. Isnt that right?


    I turned to look at Li Mazi and wondered if he would agree.


    Li Mazi walked to Chu Chu. He held her hands and sighed. Lets hide this from Chu Chu. We shouldnt tell her that Im going to marry a widow


    I nodded. Dont worry. Even if she knows, she wont me you.


    Senior Shu guffawed evilly. Since Im a nice guy, I should help you to the end. Ill give you a clue. I happen to know a widow who possibly has an otherworldly item. Later on, I will introduce her to you.


    Li Mazi nodded. Sorry for bothering you, sir.


    Tch tch, all right, you shouldnt be too polite to me. Senior Shu waved his hand and said, I cant get used to your change in attitude. However, that widow is still with her husband. Her husband will soon go to heaven. When that timees, you can jump in, said Senior Shu.


    Li Mazi grimaced. If she still has a husband, why did you say that shes a widow?


    Senior Shu said, Dont worry, her husband is already done for. That poor man is on his deathbed. He couldnt walk for half a year and now he needs support to go to the bathroom. He will go to heaven shortly. When the widow feels vulnerable, you should approach her and make her feel touched. When she bes attached to you, you will sleep with her. At most, it would take five days to know what otherworldly item is messing with her.


    I was worried. <em>Isnt this the same as deceiving the woman? If she falls in love with Li Mazi and then finds out that he just wants to trick her, what will happen?</em>


    But for Chu Chus sake, Li Mazi had no choice. At most, he would give her somepensation for her mental loss.


    Since Li Mazi wouldnt be able to take care of Chu Chu for the next while, he hired a nurse. After carefully giving advice to the nurse, we left.


    Since this was rted to Chu Chus well-being, Chuyi stayed and secretly gave assistance to Li Mazi.


    Senior Shu wasnt interested in this. Although Li Mazi had promised him arge payment, he wasnt moved.


    Senior Shu said that he was poor and had nothing but money. I immediately understood what he meant. He was a professional otherworldly merchant that didnt need money. However, I was sure he would love strange otherworldly items.


    Weve obtained a bronze mirror from the Tang dynasty. The thousand-year-old soul of Yang Guifei is trapped inside. Its really rare. Senior Shu, if you can help us save Chu Chu, we will give you the mirror!


    Senior Shu was so happy. He agreed and appraised me for having good sense.


    After that, Li Mazi told me that it was hical. After all, Yang Guifeis huge resentful energy could torture Senior Shu to death


    The widows called Mu Wan. Shes around thirty years old. She has a slender waist, long legs, and deep cleavage. Shes a voluptuous woman. Well, shes Li Mazis favorite type, anyway, Senior Shu told us.


    Li Mazi sighed and said, After experiencing the vast ocean, water can hardly pique ones interest.

 Chapter 170: Ghosts Follow Her!

    Chapter 170: Ghosts Follow Her!


    Senior Shu rudely wiped his nose. Stop being emotional, that woman doesnt look less beautiful than Chu Chu does. I think she looks even sexier. Im afraid you wont be able to hold yourself together.


    I smiled. Guys, dont worry. If Li Mazi has the guts to cheat on Chu Chu, Ill turn him into Dongfang Bubai.[1]


    Mu Wans current husband was hospitalized. His medical record in the hospital stated, spleen and stomach deficiency It wasnt a big disease. He just didnt feel like eating, which made him feeble. This was a typical symptom of high-Yin and low-Yang.


    Mu Wan was an orphan since she was fairly young. Her uncle had raised her. Later on, she became a child bride when her uncle sold her to her first husband.


    She had been married five times. Her four previous husbands, unfortunately, passed away. This created rumors about Mu Wan dooming her previous husbands, which had spread


    Since Mu Wans current husband was sick, his family med Mu Wan for everything. They assumed that she had pushed her husband to this situation. They didnt allow her to visit him in the hospital.


    Our mission right now was to go to the hospital. We needed to see how her husband was doing and how long he could put up with it.


    However, as soon as we arrived at the hospital, we heard someone shouting and screaming. It sounded like an old woman was scoffing her daughter-inw.


    Senior Shu was amused. Oh yeah, theres some good drama!


    The noise led us to them.


    In the hospital corridor, we saw an old woman slumped in a patients room. She held a staff and was crying like the sky was about to fall. At the same time, she continuously insulted a woman that stood in front of her.


    <em>That woman must be Mu Wan...</em>


    When I first saw her, my heart began to beat quickly. She had porcin-like skin with generous curves. Her eyes were charming and alluring, which inadvertently made me intoxicated. Her mouth was small, and her nose was exquisite, which gave her the look of a beautiful doll.


    If Senior Shu hadnt told me that she was around thirty years old, I would have guessed that she was only in her twenties.


    No wonder Senior Shu had insisted that she didnt look any less attractive than Chu Chu. It seemed they couldpete as rivals. However, her bodys movements were much more seductive than Chu Chus. Although she was wearing decent and formal clothes, she couldnt restrain her deadly, magical attraction!


    Chuyi told me that her strange behaviors were because of the otherworldly item.


    From what the old womans words, I understood she was Mu Wans mother-inw. I also learned that Mu Wans husband had just passed away. Since Mu Wan happened to visit her husband at this moment, the old woman immediately med everything on Mu Wan.


    Although Mu Wan was resentful, she didnt fight back. She nkly looked at her dead husband in the room and said nothing.


    Perhaps her heart was dead already; she didn''t cry. However, her sorrowful face made people pity and sympathize with her.


    I said to Li Mazi, Now is your chance. Go!


    However, before Li Mazi made a move, Chuyi said, Get me some lime. Hurry, or else it will be toote


    I nodded and ran to fetch some lime.


    When I returned, Chuyi and Li Mazi were waiting for me at the hospital. After seeing me, they quietly motioned me toward the back door of the hospital.


    The back door of the hospital was designed for authorized staff. The door was narrow, which only allowed two people at a time.


    Chuyi asked me to sprinkle the lime onto the ground. Then, he signaled us to hide and count the number of people that walked through the lime powder.


    I immediately nodded. My eyes were glued to the back door.


    After several hospital staff members walked through the back door, I saw Mu Wan. Her face showed that she was still grieving. Unable to hold her tears any longer, she silently wept. Her lonely, crying figure made my heart race.


    Now is a good chance to talk to her. Should Li Mazi approach her? I asked Chuyi.


    Chuyi shook his head. Im afraid its not that simple. We will decide after shees over.


    I didnt know what he meant by that. <em>What isnt that simple? Is there something else we dont know...?</em>


    We had to suppress our curiosity and carefully watched Mu Wan.


    After she walked to the back door, Mu Wan was a little confused as she saw the lime powder. She looked around, so we had to hide ourselves.


    After she left, Chuyi brought us over to check.


    After looking at the lime powder for a while, Chuyi couldnt help but take a deep breath. As expected.


    What is it? I asked Chuyi.


    He pointed at the lime powder on the ground. Count and tell me how many people have left footprints there.


    I counted and found the footprints of ten people!


    It made no sense. Including Mu Wan, only five people had walked over the lime powder. Why were there five more people?


    Whats happening?


    Something is following her! answered Chuyi.


    I immediately understood. <em>The five footprints belonged to Mu Wans five deceased husbands, didnt they?</em>


    <em>Are the ghosts of her five husbands pestering her?</em>


    I told Chuyi about my doubts. He confirmed with a nod.


    Why are they pestering Mu Wan? Is it because they couldnt find peace even in death and want to kill Mu Wan?


    Wait a minute. Its not just the footprints of five men, said Chuyi as he arched his brows.


    Then, he asked Li Mazi to go the security room to borrow a broom to clean up the lime powder.


    A strange thing happened! As soon as Li Mazi cleared the lime powder on the ground, we found six more ck footprints. Also, all six footprints were close to the door. They didnt ovep with the previous ones we had seen!


    These ck footprints were very shallow. If we didnt pay attention, we wouldnt have been able to see them. We only saw them because they looked slightly dark and had the shape of footprints.


    That was weird. When I sprinkled the lime, I didnt see any footprints on the ground.


    What does this mean? I asked Chuyi.


    The corner of Chuyis mouth twitched. She had eleven ghosts with her


    What the heck?" We shuddered in fright.


    A normal person would go crazy with a ghost pestering her. Now Chuyi told us that Mu Wan had eleven ghosts following her. It didnt make sense! With eleven ghosts pestering her, how could she still be alive?


    I couldnt believe it and looked at Chuyi.


    Chuyi turned to talk to Senior Shu. Senior Shu, please take a sample and check these series of footprints.


    Senior Shu nodded. He used a small shovel to carefully pick up the ck footprints. He kept them sealed in a stic bag.


    Oh, we can actually check those ck footprints? What do we need to check exactly?


    We need Senior Shu to check the age and the degree of resentment of these ghost footprints.


    I was taken aback. I had never thought that ghost footprints could be checked like this. Was there some sort of ghost DNA?


    The situation had reached a point that surpassed what I had originally imagined. What should we do now? Do we still need Li Mazi to pursue Mu Wan?


    Chuyi said coldly, Wait until we have the results.


    Senior Shu parted with us. We drove back to the hospital.


    On the way back I asked Chuyi, How could you tell that Mu Wan was abnormal?


    Its simple. Mu Wans Yang energy was rich, but what she exuded was pure Yin energy, and she had endless alluring power towards men. Thats why I knew she had something evil around her. However, I didnt expect to see that many ghosts.


    "There are so many ghosts following her, but they didnt seem to affect her at all. Are they Well, are those ghosts her pets? Maybe she knows what shes doing and personally doomed her husbands to death? My head was now open to many possibilities.


    The man was quiet for a while. Eventually, he nodded. Its possible, but were not sure yet. I think that Mu Wan has a lot of secrets, but she doesnt look like a bad woman.


    Li Mazi said, How about I just stalk Mu Wan and see if I find something.


    Chuyi hesitated for a while. In the end, he took out a small peach wood sword and asked Li Mazi to be cautious. As soon as Li Mazi encountered danger, hed need to break the sword. Chuyi woulde to save him shortly after.


    Li Mazi nodded. He got out of the car and rode a taxi. He was going to follow Mu Wan.


    Chuyi and I returned to the hospital. Chu Chu was awake. She smiled at us and asked, Wheres Li Mazi?


    I answered, Li Mazi went out to buy some stuff. Helle back shortly.


    Chu Chu nodded then closed her eyes. She drifted off into slumber.


    I stayed with Chuyi by her bed and watched over her.


    However, Li Mazi didnte back or call us. It waste at night, and I couldnt stay idle anymore.


    At the same time, I didnt dare to call Li Mazi. If he was stalking the woman and his phone rang, it would cause big trouble, wouldnt it?


    At night, Senior Shu called. He told us the footprints we obtained were likely from the Song dynasty. That was two thousand years ago.


    I took a deep breath. How could the souls from the Song dynasty pester a woman in modern times?


    I kept asking Senior Shu how that was possible. He became annoyed and cursed, If you want to believe it or not, its up to you. Then, he hung up.


    I was astonished and turned to look at Chuyi. He looked absent-minded, lost in his thoughts.


    I knew that he had something on his mind so I didnt disturb him.


    Several minutester, Chuyi shot up and said, Danger!


    What danger? I was taken aback by Chuyis sudden move.


    He nced at Chu Chu then signaled me to go out and talk.


    I didnt hesitate and followed him out of the room.


    He ordered and said, Call Li Mazi right now.


    My heart sank. I knew that Li Mazi was in danger. I took my phone out and called Li Mazi.


    Li Mazis phone rang but no one picked up.


    Whats going on? filled with worry, I asked Chuyi.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dongfang_Bubai

 Chapter 171: Chaonei No. 81

    Chapter 171: Chaonei No. 81


    Chuyi had a cold expression. Lets go. We should see where Mu Wan is staying. Its possible that she has captured Li Mazi.


    I was startled. Mu Wan looked so vulnerable and weak. How could she capture Li Mazi, a grown man?


    But I knew that Chuyi didnt have the habit of telling jokes. I immediately followed him.


    We obtained Mu Wans address from the hospital, and I disguised myself as an express delivery guy.


    Mu Wans husbands funeral hall had been set up. His family members cried until the sky became dark. As I was dressed as a delivery guy, I felt a little embarrassed when I entered the ce.


    After taking a deep breath, I went to Mu Wans mother-inw. I asked, Excuse me, maam, is Mu Wan home?


    After hearing Mu Wans name, her mother-inw gritted her teeth angrily. Mu Wan and my son have already divorced. Why have youe here to find her?


    Im here to deliver her package, I answered.


    Mu Wans mother-inw stirred up immediately. I knew it. I knew that that vixen bought some drugs online and poisoned my son! Otherwise, how could my son die at such a young age? Where are the goods she ordered? Where?!


    After hearing Mu Wans mother-inw screaming, the rtives and friends who had attended the wake abruptly congregated and circled around me.


    <em>Shoot, I disguised as an express delivery guy but I forgot to prepare the package!</em>


    Since things werent going too well, I blurted, Im going out to fetch the stuff. Then, I slipped into the car and drove away.


    This family was really angry. They had evene up with the idea that the husband was poisoned. I guessed they had seen Pan Jinlian and Wu Dng [1] too much.


    Chuyi asked, Why are you rushing out so fast?


    I sighed and told him about the situation.


    He indifferently said, Oh. Then, he went back to pondering.


    I asked him, Where should we look for Li Mazi?


    We cant find him. We can only wait for him toe back


    I was anxious. <em>Li Mazi was captured. How can hee back by himself?</em>


    Do you think Mu Wans a merciless person? asked Chuyi.


    We dont know her true nature. A person who looks pitiful can be much more wicked than anybody else.


    Chuyi shook his head. When I look at people, I dont misjudge them. She wont do anything to Li Mazi.


    I sighed reluctantly. Since he had said that, what did we have to debate about?


    I quietly followed him back to the hospital and waited for Li Mazi toe back.


    I made up my mind. If we didnt see Li Mazi by tomorrow, I would call the police.


    I had waited anxiously for the whole night but Li Mazi still hadnt returned. I felt my heart heat up as if it was burning inside. Should we report this to the police?


    Chuyi was also a little worried. Eventually, he gave me a nod.


    I took my phone and was about to call the police.


    However, when I checked my phone, I saw a message. Li Mazi had sent me a message! It read, Pick me up at the hospital!


    <em>Shoot, howe Li Mazi is at the hospital?</em> I didnt think much and called him. However, his phone rang for quite a long time. No one picked up.


    Having no other choice, we had to go to the hospital where we had seen Mu Wan.


    From a distance, we could see a man crouch at the back door. His arms hugged his knees. He looked as though he was sleeping.


    It was Li Mazi!


    I immediately ran forward. Li Mazi didnt wake up. I pped him twice, and he eventually opened his drowsy eyes, looking around in puzzlement.


    How did you get here and fall asleep? I scoffed. Do you know that weve had a difficult time looking for you?


    Li Mazi finally got a hold of himself. He nervously nced around. Then, he pulled my hand and brought me to the car.


    Its very, very bad. Little Brother Zhang, something very bad has happened


    What is it? I asked.


    Li Mazi gulped and said, Mu Wans not a human. Shes a ghost!


    I was speechless. Li Mazi, have you gone mad? What ghost? Mu Wans a living woman. How could a ghost walk around in broad daylight?


    Li Mazi was perplexed. I saw her yesterday. Shes a ghost!


    Chuyi calmed Li Mazi down and asked him to tell us what had happened yesterday.


    Li Mazi tried to calm his surging emotions and began to tell us the situation.


    Yesterday, Li Mazi had followed Mu Wan to her husbands house. Then, her mother-inw insulted her in every way she could and shooed her out of the house. Under all kinds of grievances, she packed up and left.


    Mu Wan walked on the streets by herself then stopped to buy two steamed buns. Li Mazi pitied her.


    The longer Mu Wan walked, the more remote the area she had entered. Li Mazi followed her and lost track of the time.


    Early in the morning, the fog started to shroud over Beijing. It was also getting thicker and thicker, which made it easier for Li Mazi to stalk the woman.


    He was only a dozen meters behind her. Perhaps she was too absorbed in her sorrow, so she didnt notice that he was stalking her.


    Eventually, Mu Wan got on a bus and left. Li Mazi quickly caught a taxi and followed her.


    When Mu Wan got off the bus, Li Mazi was scared out of his wits.


    He was in front of the most famous haunted house in Beijing  Chaonei No. 81! [2]


    Mu Wan stood at the door for a while then entered the mansion.


    Beijing had changed a lot and there were traces of human activity everywhere, but this mansion at Chaonei No. 81 was an exception. The nearest building had turned off its lights, which left only several street lights to illuminate the haunted house.


    Li Mazi gawked at the situation. Mu Wan was entering the haunted house. He didnt follow her but stayed outside to rest and see what the woman would do next.


    At the moment, Li Mazi didnt associate Mu Wan with any ghostly entity. He simply thought that the woman was very pitiful. Her husbands family discarded her and she didnt even have money to rent a lodge. Now, she had to stay the night inside an abandoned, haunted house.


    However, the moment Li Mazi turned around to leave, he heard Mu Wan weep in the haunted house.


    Mu Wans crying softened Li Mazis heart. She was just a lonely woman who was staying in a haunted housete at night. It wasnt strange for her to be scared. Li Mazi walked toward the mansion. He thought of arranging a good hotel for the woman to stay in and wanted to give her some money. Then, he would talk to her and learn her story. It was a good n, wasnt it?


    However, as soon as Li Mazi came to the door, he heard Mu Wans voicee out of the house. She said, Why are you following me?


    Li Mazi was scared and shivered. He was busted. So, he made up his mind and walked in, ready to exin his story to Mu Wan.


    However, when Li Mazi came to the lobby, he almost peed his pants.


    Mu Wan was hung by a red sheet of fabric. Her body was suspended and her eyes bulged out. She gazed at Li Mazi with deep resentment.


    Her delicate features had be vicious and scary. She had blood oozing out of her seven orifices and wore a red dress. Whenever the wind blew, she swayed hard


    Then, six silhouettes stood by Mu Wan. Li Mazi didnt see their faces but he clearly saw them flying toward him. They sneered coldly at him.


    Under such circumstances, even if Li Mazi had more courage, he would still be terrified and go crazy. Li Mazi screamed and felt that the blood in his body had frozen. Everything went ck, and he fell unconscious.


    When he opened his eyes again, he saw us.


    While telling us the story, Li Mazi was still frightened. His body was shivering.


    I was also scared. Chuyi, what do you think? Is Mu Wan a ghost or a human?


    Chuyi asked Li Mazi, Why didnt you break the little peach wood sword?


    Li Mazi answered, I did. It was broken earlier. I heard that peach wood could expel evil so I threw its pieces to those shadows.


    "What happened after that? asked Chuyi.


    Um, nothing, because I fainted, said Li Mazi.


    The peach wood sword you threw at those shadows didnt do anything? asked Chuyi.


    Li Mazi hesitated for a while then shook his head. They seemed like they werent afraid. I dont think the peach wood sword worked on them.


    Chuyi took a deep breath then said to me, Lets go. Were going to Chaonei No. 81.


    I immediately nodded and brought Chuyi to the car. We headed toward Chaonei No. 81.


    I had watched The House That Never Dies [3] starring Ruby Lin, so I knew some things about the buildings history. It seemed it was built in the Qing dynasty for a foreign merchant, whoter moved out due to some deaths that happened there.


    Later on, the people who lived there all died in strange ways. Somemitted suicide with a pair of scissors. Some were burned and others drowned in the bathtub. Eventually, people started to believe that this building was a haunted house.


    What did Mu Wan have to do with this haunted house?


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pan_Jinlian


    2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaonei_No._81


    3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_House_That_Never_Dies

 Chapter 172: Li Mazis Death

    Chapter 172: Li Mazi''s Death


    When we arrived at Chaonei No.81, the haunted house wasnt as frightening as we had imagined it to be.


    The outer walls of the structure had peeled off and cracked. It was covered with grape ivy. In daylight, the abandoned houses ghostly atmosphere was washed away by the sunlight.


    Li Mazi took us to the lobby and then to a window. He told us this was where he had seen Mu Wang hang herself.


    We jumped over the window and didnt see any traces of a person hanging. The ground had a lot of garbage but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. There was no red fabric, let alone Mu Wans dead body.


    Chuyi frowned. He suddenly sat down cross-legged. After a while, he opened his eyes and said coldly, Are you sure it happened here?


    Li Mazi nodded repeatedly.


    It shouldnt have, Chuyi said. Theres no Yin energy here.


    Then, he stood up and walked around the haunted house to check. In the end, he shook his head. Theres nothing here. We should go.


    I was baffled. If things were like Li Mazi had said, the woman had hung herself here. And, if there were six or seven ghosts flying around, Chuyi would have been able to sense some Yin energy.


    Chuyi couldnt exin the situation so I knew that I couldnt, either. We left the ce.


    Li Mazi felt lucky. I think I was lucky that I didnt hit on Mu Wan. If I did have that sort of intimate rtionship with her, it wouldnt be different from giving her my life, right?


    When we reached the hospital, I noticed Chuyi was acting strange. He continuously threw nces at me and signaled at me to go out.


    I was clueless and didnt know what he wanted. Shortly after, he left the room. I also excused myself.


    When we both went outside, Chuyi told me out of the blue, Be careful with Li Mazi.


    What? I was bewildered.


    Hes probably dead, Chuyi said.


    What?! I choked on my own saliva and coughed hard. Brother, since when did you learn to tell jokes?


    Chuyi shook his head. I saw his dead body at Chaonei No.81.


    I almostughed out loud. Are you okay? Li Mazis a living man. He has a body temperature and his hearts still beating. How could you see his corpse?


    Chuyi said, You must be careful. Im guessing something very bad will happen to Li Mazi tonight.


    I wanted to talk to him more but he left shortly after. He just asked me to watch Li Mazi. He had something to do.


    I couldnt do anything else but give him a nod. Afterward, I made some excuse to check Li Mazis pulse and his breathing. Everything was normal. He was nothing simr to a corpse.


    I didnt know why Chuyi said that he had seen Li Mazis corpse.


    After we had lunch, Chu Chu woke up. She talked to Li Mazi for a while then told him that she wanted to eat honey peaches. Li Mazi asked me to buy some for her.


    Hes clumsy. Im afraid he doesnt know how to choose honey peaches. Li Mazi, can you go and get me some? Chu Chu suggested.


    Li Mazi agreed then left.


    How do you feel now, Chu Chu? I asked.


    She sighed and asked me, What have you guys been doing these days?


    Of course, we could not tell her about Mu Wan. I didnt want her to think about things too much.


    Ah, no. Theres nothing, I answered with a smile.


    Chu Chus expression turned serious. Brother Zhang, you must know that its almost impossible to find the Night Dragon Bait. I dont want any of you to encounter anything bad because of me. It will give me more grievances, you know?


    I was surprised. <em>Why didnt Chu Chu talk about this in front of Li Mazi? Why did she want to talk to me privately at this critical moment?</em>


    I knew Chu Chu had a reason when she told me that. Chu Chu, you shouldnt think much. We know our limits.


    Sure enough, Chu Chu had her reasons for this private talk. Li Mazis going to die. You dont know that? You still want to hide that from me?


    I almost fell off my chair.


    Chuyi told me that Li Mazi was a dead man, and now Chu Chu said that Li Mazi was about to die. Did Li Mazi have a serious problem?


    However, I still tried to calm Chu Chu down. You shouldnt think much. Li Mazis good. He still hops around. Dont you see that?


    Chu Chu had a wry, bitter smile. Theres livor mortis on his neck. What have you been doing these days?


    What?! My head exploded inwardly.


    <em>Li Mazi had livor mortis? How could I not notice that? No wonder Chuyi said that he had seen Li Mazis corpse. He might be talking about the livor mortis.</em>


    I got up quickly and ran to the window to look. Li Mazi was walking around to find a fruit stall. His movements were normal and he didnt look like a dead person.


    Chu Chu, Li Mazi is a living man. How can he have livor mortis?


    Livor mortis would appear only on a corpse forty-eight hours after death.


    Since Li Mazi had livor mortis, was he really dead?


    Tears lingered in Chu Chus eyes. Li Mazi has done a lot of things for me. Even if I die, Im happy. If Li Mazi can get over this tribtion, I will ask him to stop searching for the Night Dragon Bait. He shouldnt work as an otherworldly merchant, either. Thats myst wish.


    Since Chu Chu was begging me with teary eyes, how could I refuse her wish?


    Yet, how could I watch Chu Chu die? I couldnt do that, either.


    She was my best buddys beloved wife. What should I do?


    I had a headache now.


    Chu Chu said feebly, Brother Zhang, Li Mazis very stubborn. He only listens to you. Could you help me talk him out of this?


    I was reluctant but gave her a nod.


    Chu Chu smiled. We shouldnt tell Li Mazi about the livor mortis. Hes not dead yet. However, now he has more Yin energy than Yang energy. Thats why he has the livor mortis.


    You shouldnt worry too much, Chu Chu. Im sure Chuyi has a solution.


    Chu Chu nodded.


    Li Mazi came back with a bag full of honey peaches. He gasped for his breath and was sweating.


    I walked behind Li Mazi and observed his neck. Indeed, I saw some dense bluish-purple dots on his neck. It looked really scary.


    My heart was heavy. I sat on the couch and thought. <em>That damn Mu Wan wasnt simple. Li Mazi only followed her and now she wants his life</em>


    However, as I was contemting, I thought that something was wrong. <em>If Mu Wan wanted to take Li Mazis life, she could have done it yesterday while Li Mazi was unconscious. She had so many chances to kill him. Why did she deliver Li Mazi to the back door of the hospital and send us a message toe and fetch him? Didnt she want Li Mazi to die?</em>


    While I was stuck in my thoughts, Senior Shu arrived, which surprised me.


    However, Senior Shu quickly signaled me to not tell Li Mazi that he had just arrived.


    I went outside the patient room while Li Mazi was inside with Chu Chu.


    Senior Shu looked displeased as he asked me to quietly call Li Mazi out.


    I wondered, What are you going to do?


    Senior Shu was annoyed. What else am I going to do? Im going to lengthen this dying ghosts life


    His words filled me with joy. Needless to say, Chuyi had asked Senior Shu to help Li Mazi.


    I opened the patient rooms door and called Li Mazi.


    As soon as Li Mazi walked out, Senior Shu grabbed him by his neck. His fingers poked Li Mazis nape twice. Li Mazis body softened and slumped. He cked out.


    Chu Chu heard themotion and asked me from inside the room, What happened?


    Its nothing. Senior Shu came to save Li Mazi, I answered.


    Chu Chu heaved a sigh of relief.


    Senior Shu put Li Mazi down and observed the livor mortis on his nape. Then hemented, If I came a momentter, this mans life would have been over.


    I immediately begged him. Senior Shu, you must save Li Mazi.


    Senior Shu sulked. How can I not save him? Chuyi has ordered me to.


    Senior Shu had always been afraid of Chuyi for some reason.


    Senior Shu used a strange-shaped dagger and scraped the livor mortis off of Li Mazis neck.


    Then, Senior Shu used a magnifying ss to observe the spot on Li Mazis neck for quite a long time. Eventually, he cursed under his breath. Someones poisoned him.


    Poisoned? I was speechless. How can you tell?


    Senior Shu handed me the magnifying ss to see. Can you see the tiny hole near his spine?


    Indeed, I saw a tiny spot in the center of the livor mortis. It was swelling. It seemed someone had used a long and thin needle to prick him.


    What kind of poison is it? I asked Senior Shu.


    It was the first time I encountered a poison that could give living people livor mortis!

 Chapter 173: Ghost Possessing the Body

    Chapter 173: Ghost Possessing the Body


    Senior Shu said, What else could it be? Its corpse toxin, of course.


    Corpse toxin? I was speechless. The toxin from a zombie?


    Your knowledge of otherworldly items alles from Hong Kong movies, eh? Senior Shu said in a mocking tone. You think that only zombie can produce corpse toxin? If it had been the extreme corpse toxin from a zombie, he would have be a zombie and bit you badly by now


    I smiled awkwardly. Yeah, Im not that much of an expert!


    This injury could be made by an otherworldly item, Senior Shu told me as he was treating Li Mazis wound.


    The otherworldly item that caused the death of Mu Wans previous husbands? I was startled. Sir, do you mean that shes been dooming her previous husbands on purpose by using some special method? Do you mean it has nothing to do with an otherworldly item?


    Senior Shu smiled disdainfully. Well, I thought that you were dumb before, but it was an understatement, I guess. If she used some special method to kill her previous husbands, then thats not dooming them. That would be murder. If it was a murder crime, I would be able to tell immediately.


    I was more embarrassed and felt like an ignorant student in front of Senior Shu.


    As soon as Senior Shu started talking, it seemed he could not stop. He kept mumbling, Why would Chuyi want to help you? Youre dumb, ugly, and poor. More importantly, youre a man


    It seemed I was that pathetic in Senior Shus eyes. I was both angry and annoyed, but I had no choice but to listen to him as I watched Li Mazi.


    Senior Shu used something stinky. It was a chunk of a feces-like substance. He smeared it over Li Mazis wound. Then, he stuck a dirty ster on it. After everything was done, he sat down directly on the ground. His face looked exhausted.


    Senior Shu, is this your familys herbal ster? It looks quite dirty, though. Wont it infect the wound?


    Senior Shuughed at my question. It is my ancestral-imparted secret treatment. You cant buy it, even if you have money. How about the price of one hundred thousand renminbi? Ill sell the recipe to you for this price.


    I immediately became interested. It would be really nice and profitable to be able to buy a secret recipe with only one hundred thousand renminbi. Senior Shu, what kind of diseases can this secret medicine cure?


    It wont be able to cure the flu or fever. However, this thing can eliminate corpse toxin and Yin energy. If you swallow it, you can hide your human aura in front of ghosts or monsters. Isnt it excellent?


    It was excellent for sure! However, I didnt have any money with me.


    Senior Shu was generous enough to let me have it as long as I wrote him a note of debt. You can pay me whenever you want. I actually dont need the money right away. I just enjoyed doing business.


    However, when I looked at the recipe, I thought I was deceived. The sticky thing that looked like feces was actually feces! However, it wasnt some turd from normal people. It was the turd from someone who had died the moment Yin energy was thickest. Also, it was extracted from such a body within forty-eight hours after death.


    The ster wasnt normal, either. It was a shroud strip that had wrapped around a dead, two-week-old infant


    I felt nauseous for Li Mazi. If Li Mazi knew the truth, he would retch his stomach from the inside out.


    Although these things were gross, they worked. After one hour of being unconscious, Li Mazi woke up. He looked drowsy and asked me, What happened? I felt like someone hit me with a stick.


    Its all right. The drip bottle fell and identally hit your neck, I told him.


    Although Li Mazi looked doubtful, he didnt ask much. Is Chu Chu okay?


    Shes okay.


    Li Mazi felt his neck sore and went to the mirror to check. Hey, how did I get this ragged strip that looks like a shroud on my neck? This hospital is so fraudulent! They didnt even use a clean bandage on me!


    Then he went to find someone to talk to. However, I stopped him. Well, it was free. How could something that is free be good enough?


    Senior Shu didnt leave and said that he wanted to go with us to Chaonei No. 81 tonight.


    However, we had waited until 11 PM and Senior Shu still hadnt mentioned a word about Chaonei No. 81. Feeling helpless, I asked him, Senior Shu, when will we depart?


    Senior Shu lowered his voice, Wait, someone will bring us there. Dont panic when it happens.


    I was skeptical. Chuyi hadnt returned yet. Who would take us there?


    While I was still twisting about this, Senior Shu nudged me and motioned me to look at Li Mazi.


    I turned to see Li Mazi. The man was sleeping and drooling.


    I was about to approach him and wake him up. However, Senior Shu grabbed me. Dont move. Lets see what Li Mazi wants to do.


    What can he even do? Hes dozing off, I told Senior Shu.


    Are you sure? Senior Shu sneered oddly as he stared at Li Mazi.


    From the reflection in Senior Shus eyes, I saw Li Mazi wiggle then jolt up.


    I was frightened and immediately looked at him.


    Sure enough, Li Mazi got up from his chair. His eyes were closed. Senior Shu motioned me to look at Li Mazis feet. Li Mazi was touching the ground with only the tips of his feet. He trembled several times but quickly became steady on his feet.


    A ghost is possessing him! I was aghast.


    Senior Shu got up. He opened Li Mazis coat and took out a ck talisman from his pocket. He spat saliva on it and glued it onto Li Mazis chest. Then, he closed the mans coat.


    Li Mazi looked as if he didnt sense anything. With his eyes closed, he trembled then headed out of the room.


    Senior Shu and I followed him.


    Although Li Mazis eyes were closed, he could still recognize the way. After walking around some obstacles, he headed to the back door of the hospital.


    Senior Shu and I followed closely behind him.


    I was fearful. Senior Shu, will Li Mazi encounter some trouble?


    Dont worry. Chuyi has everything nned. This is part of his n, too.


    After hearing Chuyis name, my worries were lifted.


    Then, Li Mazi staggered all the way to a bus that was headed toward Chaonei No. 81.


    I brought Senior Shu to my car and followed the bus to Chaonei No. 81.


    When the bus stopped, Li Mazi got out of the vehicle. His eyes were still closed. He walked into the haunted house.


    It was the second time I was here, and I found Chaonei No. 81 much more terrifying this time! Vines covered the old, cracked walls. The window ss was shattered. Strange and evil winds sometimes blew through the cracks, creating wuthering sounds as though someone was weeping mournfully.


    I couldnt help but recall the scenes from the movie The House That Never Dies. There were scenes of so many dead corpses hung in the halls, and a faceless little girl walked around the house


    Only humans could scare humans to death.


    Senior Shu and I found a ce to hide. We then watched Li Mazi walk like a soulless corpse. He walked to the haunted mansion and gently knocked on the worn-out, tattered door.


    The entrance to the house had lost one of its door leaves. He could have easily walked through the entrance. However, he still patiently knocked on the door.


    My heart was so tense that I couldnt move my eyes away from him. I wondered what would happen next.


    Then, a cold hand patted my back.


    I was almost petrified. I turned around and saw Chuyi.


    He signaled me not to talk then squatted next to me. He watched Li Mazis movements.


    After he had knocked on the door, the door opened from the inside. A slender woman wearing red clothes stood there.


    It was Mu Wan.


    Mu Wan spoke gently, Youre here? Li Mazi gave her a slight nod. Then, the two held hands and walked into the house.


    I paled because now I knew that Mu Wan had done something to Li Mazi. I urged Chuyi to seize the time and charge in.


    However, he didnt agree but took out a pure white, small snake from his pocket. He put the reptile on the ground. Then, his fingers made strange symbols. Eventually, he ced his fingers on the heart of the white snake.


    The small snake wiggled on the ground in pain. In the end, it didnt move. Ity stiff as if it was dead.


    Chuyi stretched two fingers, which he used to cut the snakes stomach. He took its bile out. He wanted to press the bile on my forehead.


    Instinctively, I wanted to avoid it. Chuyi told me, This snake bile will suppress your Yang energy. It will help you hide.


    Senior Shu half-joked to me, If you dont like the snake bile, you can swallow some of my secret ancestral-imparted treatment for free.


    After each of us had some dabs of snake bile on our foreheads, Chuyi led us to the haunted house.


    Under the cold moonlight, the gloomy, ghostly house became more haunting and terrifying.


    I didnt know why but as soon as I entered the house, I felt that something was following me. When I turned my head to check, I saw a shadow sh and disappear. I wondered if it was just an illusion.


    Some rooms in this haunted mansion still had curtains and ss chandeliers. Many white silk ropes hung from the ceiling. When the wind blew, the silk ropes began to sway and billow. It made us feel strange and shudder.


    Chuyi didnt give us time to linger. He brought us to the stairs. We needed to go to the higher floor.


    I tried to search for Li Mazi. I didnt see him anywhere and assumed Mu Wan had taken him to the top floor.


    The roof was a dangerous ce. If Mu Wan wanted to kill him, she could just push him off from the roof. Even if he didnt die, he would be disabled.


    Soon, we went all the way to the top of the building. However, we didnt go up to the roof but hid at the stairwell instead, monitoring the situation.


    I saw Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi and Mu Wan sat at a table on the roof of the mansion. They said nothing and just looked at each others eyes.


    I was confused.<em>What the heck are they doing up there? Are they getting to know each other?</em>


    Soon, I realized that something was wrong. The table had many chairs, one next to another. I counted seven of them.


    One, two, three, four, five All of a sudden, Mu Wan started to count with her mild voice.


    I was perplexed. <em>What is she counting?</em>


    When she counted five the cold smile on Mu Wan face turned clearer. She looked at Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi spoke in an icy cold voice, Six.


    Um, six. Thats enough. Mu Wan said. Darling, Im tired. We should rest.


    Li Mazi nodded gently. Good, we should rest.


    Then, Li Mazi stood up and carried Mu Wan. He ced her on the table. He was about to undress Mu Wans red dress.


    Mu Wan gave him an alluring smile. She raised her hand to stop Li Mazi. Then, she actively pulled down Li Mazis pants and used her hand to help him.


    I gawked and dropped my jaw in shock. <em>Holy moly, what does she want to do?</em>


    I was restless and asked Chuyi. Are we not going out to help him now? Li Mazi will be killed sooner orter!


    Chuyi calmed me down. Just watch. I want to see what Mu Wan wants to do.

 Chapter 174: Bewitching Woman

    Chapter 174: Bewitching Woman


    Shortly after, Li Mazi spurted man fluid. Mu Wan swiftly received it. Under the moonlight, she eyed and admired the fluid in her hand.


    <em>Holy moly, what kind of fetish is this!</em>


    I gawked at the scene and dropped my jaw in shock. When I saw Li Mazis happy face, I felt disgusted.


    While we were still contemting, Mu Wan suddenly took the golden hairpin off of her hair bun. Instantly, her long, back hair cascaded, which made her look even more charming.


    Li Mazi opened his eyes wide. He dumbly stared at Mu Wan.


    Mu Wan smiled yfully. Idiot.


    Then, she dipped the golden hairpin into the fluid and tried to smear the golden hairpin with the fluid.


    Stop! Chuyi lunged out like a sharp sword being drawn from its sheath.


    While I was restless, he finally took action.


    After seeing Chuyi, Mu Wan didnt show fear or anxiety. She calmly continued to smear the golden hairpin.


    Chuyi said coldly, Vixen, you use despicable evil magic to harm people. I wont let you go tonight.


    Mu Wan snorted. Her voice was extremely alluring, which made people intoxicated.


    Brother Mazi, they want to kill me. Can you protect me? Mu Wans soft voice ordered.


    Li Mazi nodded obediently. Then, he red at us angrily. He seemed ready to lunge forward at any minute.


    Chuyi told us, You guys deal with Li Mazi. Im going to take care of Mu Wan.


    Then, he drew his sword and aimed toward Mu Wan. I immediately pinned Li Mazi underneath me and yelled at his face, You jerk, wake up. Hurry!


    But how could it be so easy wake Li Mazi up? He closed his eyes as his hands stirred around. He was very strong. Shortly after, he threw me away and pped me twice.


    <em>Damn, hes really possessed!</em>


    I was hurt and gritted my teeth. Since I couldnt attack him with my arms or legs, I had to bite him.


    However, my bite didnt work. Li Mazi pped me one more time. I was so angry that I nned to give him a good lesson when he woke up!


    I looked at Senior Shu, who was calmly separating a tattered bandage. I called him for help. He said with a smile, Young man, put up with it for a while. Im almost done here.


    Feeling helpless, I could only rely on myself. After seeing Li Mazi raise his hand again, I gritted my teeth and mustered my strength. I bit the tip of my tongue. Before he could hit me, I sprayed the blood onto his face.


    The blood from the tip of the tongue carried powerful energy. Li Mazi backed off. I seized the chance and got up. Then I kicked him aside. Coincidently, hended on Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu was sent to the ground by Li Mazi, causing him to curse loudly. Li Mazi then pped him and almost knocked out the old man.


    What are you doing standing like an idiot?! Use the shroud strip to cover Li Mazis mouth! Senior Shu screamed.


    <em>Ah, it turns out that tattered strip is some shroud!</em>


    I didnt care how disgusting the shroud bandage was. I grabbed it and jumped onto Li Mazi. I shoved it into his mouth.


    Li Mazi was scared and started struggling. I directly used my body to lock his. No matter how hard he wiggled, I didnt let go of him.


    Luckily, the struggling ceased. I was able to subdue him eventually.


    However, at this moment, I suddenly felt that something was blowing cold air at my neck. I was startled. Instinctively, I wanted to turn around to see.


    Senior Shu reminded me, Kid, dont turn around. Youll get possessed.


    I couldnt do anything else but ignore it. However, it didnt seem like only one person was blowing cold air at my neck.


    I tried to suppress my fear and focused on Li Mazi. Slowly, he stopped wiggling. Now, I could check Chuyi.


    The two werent fighting as I had imagined.


    I saw Chuyi sitting cross-legged on the ground. He was mumbling something. Mu Wan was so scared that her face was pale. She wanted to escape.


    However, circling around her were many white snakes. She didnt dare to run but tried to control Li Mazi to help her.


    Senior Shu and I had already subdued Li Mazi, so how could he rescue Mu Wan? Mu Wan was flustered and screamed, Go!


    As soon as she screamed, I felt the shadows behind me dash toward Mu Wan. Another shadow got out of Li Mazis body. Altogether, they grouped and entered Mu Wans body, disappearing.


    Mu Wan looked as though she had depleted all of her energy. She slumped and crouched on the ground, falling unconscious.


    I exhaled in relief and ran toward Chuyi.


    Chuyi felt a heat in his throat. He spurted a mouthful of dark blood. His face looked terrible.


    I carefully supported Chuyi. Are you all right? Do you want me to take you to the hospital?


    No Theres no need.


    Chuyi looked really weak. He shook his head and said to me, You must burn all those white snakes, then we need to leave this haunted house. Hurry up!


    Then, he also fell unconscious.


    I did as he had told me. There was garbage everywhere in this abandoned house. I found some dry sticks and piled up the snakes. I burned them.


    Those snakes were lively earlier. However, after Chuyi vomited blood, they began to look drowsy and tired. When I threw them into the fire, they woke up. They jumped and wiggled and tried to run away.


    I was startled and tried to capture them back. Senior Shu stopped me and said, Chuyi wants to wake them up and let them go. He doesnt really want to burn them to death.


    I put Chuyi on my back and asked Senior Shu to carry Mu Wan and Li Mazi. We left the ce.


    I didnt take them directly to the hospital. Instead, I took them to a hotel nearby. I didnt want to catch the attention of the police.


    Chuyi, Li Mazi, and Mu Wan were unconscious. I didnt know what to do, so I asked, Senior Shu, what should we do now?


    Just wait. They will wake up by themselves, said Senior Shu. Then he left.


    I panicked and pulled him back. I asked him to stay with me. As the three were still unconscious and I wasnt experienced enough, I needed an expert to stay with me.


    Senior Shu snorted. I cant stay in a high-profile ce like this. Otherwise, my enemies will spot me.


    Then, he ignored me and left.


    After looking at the three sleeping people, I was speechless. I didnt know what to do.


    Suddenly, Mu Wan wiggled. Then, her slender body sat up from the bed. She looked at me with pitiful eyes. Brother, can you please save me? I dont feel well


    I looked at her. She looked like a pear blossom flower under the rain as she cried. I couldnt stand it.


    However, I was sure that Mu Wan wasnt someone to be underestimated. I shouldnt help her!


    I immediately took out the Sirius Whip and coldly said, If you dont behave, dont me me for being impolite!


    Mu Wan didnt resist. Her body slumped softly and fell unconscious again.


    <em>Did she just gather thest bit of her strength to tell me that...?</em>

 Chapter 175: The Soul Seizing Golden Hairpin

    Chapter 175: The Soul Seizing Golden Hairpin


    Shortly after, Li Mazi woke up. He clutched his head and groaned in pain.


    I poured him a ss of warm water.


    After drinking it, Li Mazi said to me in a daze, Little Brother Zhang, why am I here?


    I sneered and said, How did it feel to get possessed by a ghost? Was it fun?


    Li Mazi was bewildered. What? Possessed by a ghost possessed?


    I pointed to Chuyi and Mu Wan. Theyy unconscious on the bed.


    Li Mazi looked at the two lying on the bed and was startled. Oh shoot, you took me here to bust this illicit affair? How could they do that!


    Cut it off! I immediately scolded him. Youre shameless. You and Mu Wan were having an affair!


    Li Mazi rolled his eyes at me. Youre talking nonsense. I only have Chu Chu in my heart. How could I have an affair with Mu Wan?


    <em>This man sure sounds very confident.</em>


    I couldnt do anything else but tell Li Mazi everything that had happened.


    Li Mazi was baffled. After a moment of shock, he unbuckled his belt and checked his crotch. When he confirmed everything was still there, he heaved a sigh of relief. Good, theres no problem. Otherwise, Id have definitely killed this woman! Oh right, tell me, why did Mu Wan want to dip her golden hairpin into semen?


    How do I know, I answered.


    Li Mazi walked over to study Mu Wan. Eventually, his eyes focused on the golden hairpin in Mu Wans hand. He wanted to take it to have a close look.


    I hurried to stop Li Mazi. Stop. Dont touch that golden hairpin! Its an extremely evil item. Something foul is living inside. Its better if you dont touch it.


    Li Mazi drew his hand back in fear. However, he was still very interested in that hairpin and studied it.


    We waited like this until the break of dawn. Mu Wan finally woke up. She opened her drowsy eyes and looked at me and Li Mazi in puzzlement.


    Li Mazi and I put up our guards, as we were afraid that she would flee.


    You What do you want? Mu Wan looked at us. She shivered in fear. She wanted to get up. However, as soon as she did that, her body felt like jelly. She fell back to the bed.


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. Why was she scared of us now?


    She said, I remember you! I met you two at the hospital the other day.


    This time, it was the two of us who were dumbstruck.<em>Whats going on? Is she pretending to have amnesia?</em>


    Since Mu Wan had treated him badly, Li Mazi didnt sympathize with her. He said coldly, Dont pretend that you lost your freaking memory. Look, Ive also lost my memory, and my father is Li Jiacheng! [1]


    You should better release me, she shivered, Otherwise, Ill call the police!


    Call the police? Good, Li Mazi smiled, You should do it. Haha, you murdered your husband. Thats enough to give you five death sentences.


    I didnt kill them! Mu Wan suddenly screamed, heart-broken. I didnt want things to end like this. I know that Ive harmed my husband. I didnt even want to marry him, but he didnt listen to me


    Then, she burst out crying.


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. I could tell that he was puzzled.


    Do you remember anything that happenedst night? Li Mazi asked. I was almost killed by you. Dont say you dont know.


    What are you talking about? Mu Wan looked baffled. What happened yesterday? I have no idea!


    Oh, she is saying she doesnt know, Li Mazi looked at me. Little Brother Zhang, do you buy it?


    Actually, Mu Wans expression and responses showed that she wasnt aware of the situation. <em>Should I agree with her and say that she doesnt seem to know?</em><em>But if I did that, Li Mazi would definitely strangle me to death</em>


    While we were in this struggling situation, Chuyi jolted up. All of us were startled.


    I immediately approached him. Are you okay?


    Chuyi shook his head.


    Later on, he walked to Mu Wan and assessed her from head to toe. Then he asked, Could you let me see the golden hairpin youre holding?


    Mu Wan hesitated for a while but still gave Chuyi the hairpin. My brother gave me this hairpin.


    Your blood brother? Chuyi asked.


    "Yes. Mu Wan bit her lower lip.


    How is the rtionship between the two of you? asked Chuyi.


    Li Mazi couldnt help but ask, Brother, since when did you like to gossip? We dont care if her rtionship with her brother is good or bad. Shes killed many men. We must talk to her family.


    Chuyi waved his hand and signaled us not to talk.


    Mu Wan was scared of us. She didnt want to say more.


    Chuyi gentlyforted her. Dont be scared. Were not bad guys. Something has happened to you, and we want to know how to deal with it.


    Mu Wan told us, My brother really cares about me.


    Cares about you? Chuyis brows raised higher. Im afraid he wants to harm you.


    Mu Wan shook her head. No, he really loves me. He gives me all the money he has while he lives in a dpidated house.


    Why didnt you think of returning this golden hairpin to him? He could sell it and use the money to marry and raise his kids, right?


    Why did Chuyi suddenly ask something so strange?


    Although Mu Wan thought it was weird, she still answered the questions. I did try to return the golden hairpin to him. He persistently refused it. He wants me to keep the golden hairpin with me at all times.


    I understand. Chuyi contemted and nodded his head. Tonight, Im taking you home.


    Home? Mu Wan was taken aback. Why do I have to go home? If my brother knows Ive harmed another husband, he will feel so hurt


    He wont, Chuyi said, Im sure he knows by now, and he must be very happy.


    What? Mu Wan was clueless as she looked at Chuyi. Who are you, after all?


    If you dont want anything bad to happen to your brother, youd better stay in the hotel. If your brother calls you, tell him that you will go home tonight. If you dont listen to me, your brother will die because of you.


    Mu Wan was even more bewildered. Why do I have to believe you?


    "It doesnt matter whether you believe me or not. Your brothers life is in your hands, said Chuyi.


    Then he prepared to leave. Before leaving, he nced at me and Li Mazi, signaling us to go as well.


    Li Mazi waved his hand. You should go first! Im staying here to watch over her. If shes plotting something and runs away, I would be in danger, right?


    Chuyi said, Dont worry. Youre safe now.


    Li Mazi was still worried, but I grabbed him and left the room. If it werent for Chuyi, Li Mazi would have been killed already. One would suffer if they did not listen to Chuyi.


    After we walked out, I couldnt help but ask Chuyi. What game is Mu Wan ying? I can tell she had no idea about what happenedst night.


    Chuyi said coldly, Indeed, she didnt know anything.


    What? Li Mazi was dumbstruck. How is that possible?


    Her hairpin has bewitched her. Chuyi said, After sunset, Mu Wan isnt herself anymore. Six souls from the Song dynasty controlled her. They are the owners of the six series of footprints we saw the other night. Mu Wans husbands died one after another. Im afraid its the dark deeds of the Song dynasty souls. They must have some secret they dont want anybody to know.


    Whats about Mu Wans brother? I asked.


    Chuyi told me, Tonight, everything will be revealed.


    He stopped right there, even though we wanted to learn more. However, since I knew his personality, I didnt have the guts to break his silence.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li_Ka-shing

 Chapter 176: Concentric Snake

    Chapter 176: Concentric Snake


    Chuyi asked me and Li Mazi to go to the hospital to take care of Chu Chu. I told Li Mazi to go alone. I wanted to stay in case Chuyi needed help.


    Chuyi hesitated but finally nodded.


    He then led me all the way to where Senior Chu was staying. The old man respectfully invited us in.


    Chuyi asked Senior Chu to prepare something for him: realgar wine, a butcher knife, three stepping-on-corpse-leaving-no-trace, and some ck beans.


    Senior Chu looked hesitant. Realgar wine, butcher knives, and ck beans are easy to find. But its very difficult to find some stepping-on-corpse-leaving-no-trace. Not many people use these old things these days.


    Chuyi indifferently raised three fingers. Three medium-level spirit talismans.


    Senior Chu was overjoyed. Deal! Im going to get you the top-quality stepping-on-corpse-leaving-no-trace.


    Then, Senior Chu proceeded toward the door.


    Chuyi went to a tattered desk and used some blue ink to draw on his paper talismans.


    I was a rookie in this profession. Stepping-on-corpse-leaving-no-trace and medium-level spirit talismans were things I didnt know about, so I asked him.


    Chuyi patiently exined to me. A stepping-on-corpse-leaving-no-trace was actually a ck donkey hoof that had stepped over a corpse.


    It didnt simply have to pass over a body, but had to walk over it and leave no trace behind.


    These kinds of ck donkey hooves could have intelligence. They were very effective in dealing with zombies.


    Novels that said that one could use any kind of ck donkey hoof to deal with zombies were obviously lying.


    Medium-level spirit talismans were the better version of low-level spirit talismans.


    Most of the talismans, spells, and charms in the market were fake or low-level. A medium-level talisman was more than enough to deal with a malicious ghost. Although it was powerful, not many people knew how to create such a type of talisman. The materials were also scarce. In the market, it was something one couldnt buy with money.


    I gawked in awe. I never thought that it was that mysterious and magical.


    To draw the three medium-level spirit talismans, Chuyi had spent three hours. He had drawn eight talismans altogether, but only three were working. He said that such a sess rate was already high.


    It was already evening when Senior Chu came back. He carried a small but full bag. There was no need to ask what the contents were. They were all the items Chuyi had asked for.


    After he received his required items, Chuyi left. Senior Chu was very happy; tears almost fell off his face when he held the three medium-level spirit talismans.


    We went to the hospital to fetch Li Mazi. Then, we headed to the hotel Mu Wan was staying in.


    Mu Wan was still there. After seeing us, she blurted, My brother did call. He asked me to go home as soon as possible.


    Sure enough, Chuyi predicted things correctly!


    How did you answer him?


    As you told me.


    Good. Tonight, were going to see your brother.


    Then, we stayed and rested in the hotel. We slept until night time.


    After we got to the car, Chuyi poured some realgar wine in a small bowl and took out a white snake, ced in the bowl.


    I was stunned as I looked at the lifeless snake.


    Chuyi seemed to know my doubts and simply exined, The small white snakes I prepared yesterday all know Mu Wans golden hairpins aura. They will be able to detect where the souls in her hairpine from.


    If he wasnt wrong, Mu Wans brothers ce was the source.


    This kind of snake was called concentric snake. They were very rare but Senior Chu had bred some. Chuyi had used three low-level talismans to exchange for them. No matter how far they were, the snakes could sense each other. As long as we had this snake showing us the way, we would be able to find Mu Wans home!


    Mu Wan had a questioning look. However, under the snakes direction, after taking manyplicated turns, Mu Wans questioning look was reced with an astonished one.


    Around two hourster, the car stopped at a small vige near a mountain.


    Mu Wan gulped. My brother always stays on the mountain.


    Oh, what a secluded master. Staying in such a high ce, I guess hes not afraid of falling down and dying, is he? Li Mazi sighed.


    Mu Wan nced at Li Mazi. Li Mazi smiled awkwardly.


    Chuyi didnt let us get off the car but released the small white snake to the mountain. We then checked and arranged the items we had prepared.


    Mu Wan was anxious seeing us prepare these odd items. She asked, What are you going to do with these?


    Chuyi said, Were going to your house shortly after. You should tell your brother that were your friends. You dont need to care about anything else. Im sure you and your brother will be safe.


    Mu Wan nodded. However, she looked really fearful.


    Mu Wan took us to the mountain through a small trail. This trail was meandering and bumpy. Some sections did not have paths. Travelers had to use their own experience to cross through the lush bushes.


    An obfuscating formation. Chuyi suddenly sneered and said, It seems he does have some skills.


    Li Mazi was confused. Whats an obfuscating formation? Is it dangerous?


    The majority of the nts here are Greeting Pines and peaches. They were nted in a formation deduced from the Five Elements and Eight Trigrams. Normal people wouldnt be able to cross the ce. They would give up eventually and leave the mountain. You guys have to follow me closely, Chuyi exined.


    Mu Wan was a little displeased. How could my brother be a Daoist priest? I nted them with my brother, and I dont know about any obfuscating formation thing you mentioned.


    But your brother dug up the pits, right? asked Chuyi.


    Mu Wan didnt answer. I knew Chuyi was right.


    There was no path. Mu Wan walked around and passed through the various trees.


    After we got out, we saw a shadow squatting outside the formation.


    Mu Wan cheered up and walked forward. Mu Tou!


    The shadow got up. I shone my shlight right at him. He was a strong, muscr man around thirty years old. He had a thick beard that hid his face. If we were here before the liberation day, I would have thought this man was a mountain bandit.


    Mu Wan, how many times have I told you that you are not allowed to bring outsiders to the mountain? Why didn''t you listen to me? Mu Tou scoffed at her.


    Chuyi intervened before Mu Wan could exin who we were. A member of the Xiao family?


    After hearing Chuyi, Mu Tous face changed drastically. Youre not weed here. Get lost! If you move one step forward, I wont be polite anymore.


    Chuyi said coldly, One who deserves to die cant live. One who should live cant die.


    Then, he jumped forward. For a dead person, is it worth it?


    Nonsense, Mu Tous face turned purple in rage. Get out of here! Or else, I will make you suffer!


    Mu Tou immediately drew a hatchet and shed at a nearby big tree.


    Mu Wan was scared by Mu Tous sudden move. Mu Tou had never acted like that before.


    She told Mu Tou, Brother, are you hiding something from me? Theyre my friends. Theyre here to help us. Why are you doing this?


    Girl, how can you be so stupid? You vited our ancestral pledge! Mu Tou said bitterly. But dont you worry. I will use my life to atone for your sins. Lets go.


    Then, Mu Tou grabbed Mu Wans hand and headed toward the mountain.


    The Soul Seizing Hairpin is in my hand, Chuyi said. I think everybody should calm down. We need to sit down and talk. Perhaps I will be able to help you.


    What?! Mu Tous emotion surged instantly. He angrily red at Chuyi. You stole the golden hairpin?


    I didnt steal it, Chuyi said. I said Im here to help. Im from Mitu Temple.


    What Mu Tou was scared. The Mitu Temple?


    Hes from the Zhang family, said Chuyi as he pointed at me. I wonder if we are now qualified to go to the mountain and talk?


    Mu Tou was even more agitated and nervously watched us. After quite a long time, he nodded. Okay!


    Then, he turned around and led us up to the mountain.

 Chapter 177: Queen Xiaos Grave-keeper

    Chapter 177: Queen Xiao''s Grave-keeper


    I had a lot of doubts in my heart right now.


    <em>Is Chuyi that scary? Also, what did he mean by Hes from the Zhang family? What is the background of my Zhang family?</em>


    With these doubts in my mind, I went with Mu Tou to the mountain peak. A cottage was situated on the top. We were invited in. Inside the house was just some in furniture. Overall, it was a poor-looking house. It didnt even have electricity. The man used some candles to light up the ce.


    An old fashioned table was opposite to the door, and a memorial tablet was ced on it. Behind the tablet was an ancient painting of an elegant, beautiful woman. She was looking towards the entrance, and I could see faint grief in her eyes.


    After Chuyi came in, he lit up three joss sticks and gave the ancient painting a nod. Then, he sat by Mu Tou.


    Tell me everything. If its something we can help you with, we will naturally give you a hand, said Chuyi.


    Mu Tous eyes were blurry. His tears rolled down as he started to tell us his familys story.


    This mountain was where the famous Empress Xiao had lived in the past. [1]


    Mu Tous ancestors used to receive Empress Xiaos favors, so they volunteered to be her grave-keepers after she had passed away.


    In honor of Empress Xiao, Mu Tous ancestors had changed their family name. It was enough to show how much they admired and respected Empress Xiao!


    Empress Xiao was very unlucky overall. She had six husbands in total and all of them were Emperors.


    One of them was the renowned Emperor Yang of Sui  Yang Guang!


    That was why people made rumors that she had cursed all of her husbands. Every single husband of hers had died tragically. Of course, it was also rted to the continuous wars at the time


    Everybody knew that the Emperor of a nation was very possessive. Empress Xiao had remarried after her husbands died, which had provoked the other Emperors rage. Thus, even after they died, they still kept pestering her.


    Although Empress Xiao had lived until she was eighty-one years old, she had always been tormented by her first five husbands. Even after she passed away, she couldnt rest well.


    She had an otherworldly item, which was the golden hairpin. ording to legends, Emperor Yang of Sui had stolen this hairpin from an ancient tomb. Since this hairpin could store evil things, after Empress Xiao died, the resentful souls of her six husbands had gathered and lived in this golden hairpin.


    Not long after Empress Xiao died, her body changed due to the strong resentful energy of her six husbands. She became a zombie. However, since she was confined in her own coffin, she couldnt attack anybody.


    Her grave-keeper couldnt be at ease because Empress Xiao couldnt rest in peace. They went to an expert and asked how to help her rest.


    The expert did have some skills. He offered the grave-keeper a suggestion. The golden hairpin was the reason the six souls kept pestering Empress Xiao. Since the souls were confined in the hairpin, their resentment had grown stronger.


    If they could find six other souls to swap with the souls the golden hairpin was keeping, their resentment would be reduced. This would also solve Empress Xiaos problem.


    To let Empress Xiao rest in peace, the grave-keeper found six people from his family, who were willing to sacrifice their lives for Empress Xiao!


    And it worked. Empress Xiao could finally rest.


    However, the expert then told them that this method could onlyst for a hundred years. After one hundred years, the golden hairpin would have tortured the souls until they vanished. And, at that time, Empress Xiaos six husbands would be bound to the hairpin once again. That was why they needed to find six other men to sacrifice.


    At first, the Xiao family was rich andrge. There were men in the family who wanted to sacrifice themselves. However, after many wars, their family members had reduced greatly. In this dire situation, they had to find other people to die for them.


    To make up for those who had died, they let their daughters marry the men first. After a while, their Yang energy would be sucked by the hairpin and they would die.


    Those souls would rece the souls in the hairpin.


    When Mu Tou came to this part of the story, he choked in his own sobs. He knelt before Mu Wan. Mu Wan, its my fault! Ive done this out of my willingness. Without Empress Xiao, we wouldnt exist. I had to do this. Otherwise, we are just a bunch of ungrateful people who dont remember the favor.


    Mu Wan had tears in her eyes. She looked at her brother. Brother, how could you So it was me who killed my previous husbands?


    Mu Tou shook his head. No, not you. It has nothing to do with you. You knew nothing. Its the karma I created and I will shoulder this sin alone.


    Mu Wan clutched her head as she cried. How could you do that?! Brother, do you know how much my heart was in pain? I would rather die than seeing my husbands die.


    Now you have five souls. You still need another one. Are you going to use your own soul to reach the number? Its the reason why you called Mu Wan to go home, said Chuyi.


    Mu Tou nodded. Yes, I knww Mu Wan had encountered a strong opponent. If we continued, we would be discovered, so I asked her toe home. I was going to use my own soul to reach the required number.


    Mu Tou, how can you be so stupid? Mu Wan hugged her brother as she cried. Without you, how can I live?


    Chuyi shook his head reluctantly. Sigh, although Empress Xiao did some favor to your family, it has been more than one thousand years. What youve done for her is enough to repay her favor. Why do you have to sacrifice yourself? This is not loyalty. Its stupidity, you know?


    Mu Tou sighed. Its our ancestors pledge. I dont dare to break it.


    You still want to do that? Chuyi was astonished. He looked at Mu Tou.


    Right, said Mu Tou.


    Brother, you shouldnt. If you die, what will I do? I cant continue to live on! Mu Wan sobbed.


    Mu Tou hugged Mu Wan and gently stroked her long hair. Go somewhere far away and marry a good man! In my life, Ive let out down the most. Please forgive your brother.


    Mu Wan shook her head. Tears streamed down her face.


    Youre an idiot. I sighed and said, Living people dont need to care that much for a dead one. If you care about Empress Xiao, you should help her ascend and free her instead. Thats the true rest.


    If she could be freed, I would have done that already. Unfortunately, Empress Xiao died a thousand years ago. Theres no way to help her ascend. This is the only way to help her rest, said Mu Tou.


    Then just hit her until her soul vanishes, Li Mazi interjected. Have you ever thought about the men youve killed? Is it fair to them? A woman who died more than one thousand years ago needs six men to die for her every one hundred years. Do you think its fair?


    Behind those six innocent men were six families. You cared about your fixation so much that you forgot the others!


    Mu Tou shook his head. Things havee to this. I can only use my death to pay for my sins. After one hundred years, I hope you can let Empress Xiaos soul ascend. At that time, Ill have fulfilled my ancestors expectations


    "Stupid and stubborn, Chuyi said coldly.


    Suddenly, Mu Tou hit Mu Wans nape with his hand, knocking her out.


    Then, he kowtowed three times toward Chuyi. He received the golden hairpin from him then left.


    Should we let him leave just like that? I was a little upset and looked at Chuyi.


    He patted my shoulder, Before I die, I will deal with Empress Xiaos soul.


    "But..."


    I still wanted to talk him out of it but Chuyi had already followed Mu Tou.


    I shot a nce at Mu Wan, who had fainted. With a sigh, I followed the others.


    Mu Tou took us behind the cottage where a small grave was situated. He opened the grave. I saw a white door.


    Mu Tou opened the white door and gave a yearning nce toward his cottage house. All of a sudden, he stabbed the golden hairpin into his throat. Blood immediately streamed down. Then, he disappeared into the grave.


    I shone my shlight into the grave, but it was too deep. We couldnt see the bottom.


    Chuyi said, We should seal it. This is his choice.


    Li Mazi and I moved immediately and sealed the grave. Chuyi threw inside the ck donkey hooves together with other stuff we had prepared.


    He said, These items could help stop the Yin energy from the grave.


    Originally, Chuyi wanted to use the items to deal with Empress Xiaos corpse. But right now, they were of no use


    After we burned the cottage, we brought Mu Wan back with us.


    When Mu Wan woke up, she didnt cry or whine. She just sat quietly and looked absent-minded.


    Mu Wan, what do you want to do next?


    Mu Wan said that she wanted to be a nun.


    Li Mazi advised her and said, Youre still in your prime time. Why would you be a nun? I can introduce you to a good guy. Later on, we can help each other.


    Mu Wan had died inside. She no longer cared about this world. I knew it was no use in talking her out of it.


    Chuyi knew a nun from a temple. He wrote Mu Wan an introduction letter to go there.


    After I watched Mu Wan leave, my heart had mixed feelings.


    Being loyal was worth of ones admiration. To repay Empress Xiaos favor, Mu Wans ancestors had be her grave-keepers. They had endured hardship through all different kinds of situations. This loyalty was worth being the model for people to learn from.


    However, it was the same ridiculous loyalty that had sacrificed so many innocent lives.


    Loyalty had eventually changed into stupidity and ignorance!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empress_Xiao_(Sui_dynasty)

 Chapter 178: The Bizarre Decapitation Case

    Chapter 178: The Bizarre Decapitation Case


    This time, we didnt earn a dime, and we were already struggling to find the money for Chu Chus treatment.


    Li Mazi was really worried. He had stayed in Beijings Panjiayuan Market all day in hopes of bumping into a rich man that needed some business.


    I was also anxious and put up an advertisement in the circle. As long as we could earn money, we were willing to do anything, even if it was dangerous!


    However, the day after I had put up the advertisement, Chuyi dropped in and transferred one million renminbi to Chu Chus bank ount. Li Mazi and I gawked in awe. We didnt think that Chuyi was <em>that</em> rich.


    Chuyi asked me, Did you put up the advertisement?


    I did.


    I took it down. I dont want you guys to do that again. If someone sees it andes up with bad intentions, they will make you guys solve a dangerous case. You will be screwed if that happens.


    I sighed helplessly. I did it because I was desperate.


    Do you want to go to the Northeast? I have a former client who works in forestry. He has a problem and needs help, said Chuyi.


    He didnt have the time to help the client and he thought of us.


    Li Mazi didnt hesitate. Yes, well go! After we solve it, Ill pay you back your money.


    Chuyi shook his head and said, Just consider it as a gift from me.


    I was speechless. <em>How rich is he? It was just a gift but it had seven zeros!</em>


    Li Mazi also gawked in disbelief. Chuyi gave us a card and told us to contact the client directly.


    If you have any problem, just call me. Then, Chuyi left.


    Li Mazi and I looked at each other. We felt like losers in front of him.


    If this was a job Chuyi had arranged for us, of course, we would try our best toplete it. Otherwise, we would ruin his reputation. I immediately hit the numbers on my phone.


    The person on the other end of the line was a typical man living in the Northeast. He had a rough and loud voice. Who is it?


    Chuyi introduced you to me, I exined. Im an otherworldly merchant.


    After hearing my introduction, the person changed his tone into a more respectful one. Sir, where are you now? Im going to send someone to wee you. We need to hurry to save people. Several people have died around here


    Send me your address. Well depart now, I said immediately.


    The man agreed and asked us toe over as soon as possible. He promised to give us a big reward after we solved the case.


    Li Mazi and I didnt hesitate and directly hit the road. The client was a businessman who worked in the forestry industry in Xingan Ridge. From his business card, his lumberyard seemed to thrive well as he had even had business deals in Thand.


    We took a flight to Heilongjiang. The man had sent a car to fetch us.


    The car was a Hummer and the driver was talkative. He told us that it wasnt easy to travel through the forest. If he drove amon Sedan, it would overturn itself soon.


    The driver took us all the way to a town outside Xingan Ridge. We finally met our client in an average-looking tavern.


    A beefy Northeastern man warmly weed us as soon as he saw us.


    His name was Lin Longshan and he was a native who grew up in the forest. He had followed his father in the forestry business. He had started thepany by himself, and it had gone from a small lumberyard to a big export and tradingpany


    Of course, he didnt forget to brag. Li Mazi and I listened patiently.


    Eventually, Li Mazi went straight to the matter. Sir, could you tell us what kind of odd event youve encountered?


    Lin Longshan gulped and waved his hand to dismiss the others. Then, he said mysteriously, Lately, an executioner has appeared in my lumberyard.


    An executioner? I was surprised. Why didnt you report this to the police?


    Report to the police? Lin Longshan smiled embarrassedly. Please listen to me first.


    I recognized how blunt I was when I said that. If he reported to the police, thepensation he had to pay could make him vomit blood.


    It turned out that a worker at Lin Longshans lumberyard had died due to a big tree falling on him. Lin Longshan gave his family somepensation then decided to bury the deceased near the lumberyard.


    However, while digging the pit, they identally unearthed a weird-looking statue. It was a statue of a headless person whose hands and feet had been tied. At first nce, it looked like a decapitated prisoner.


    As they all thought it was a sign of bad luck, they hoisted the statue up and threw it away before burying the body.


    However, something happened that night.


    Around midnight, an old guard working at the lumberyard went out to pee. All of a sudden, he shouted, Zou San''er? How is this possible?!


    After his shout, everything turned silent.


    His scream had woken up many people. They went to check things out, and they saw that the old guard was lying in a pool of blood. His head had been cut off with a clear and neat cut. It was caused by some sharp weapon.


    The people were frightened and hid into their sheds. They all believed that the man who died in the morning hade back to life because Zou San''er was his name!


    What happened was very strange. Lin Longshan decided to investigate. He thought that Zou San''er didnt actually die and that he had crawled out of his grave to take revenge.


    With that thought, he brought the people to where they had buried Zou San''er. When they got there, they found the beheaded statue they had thrown away earlier, sitting right above Zou San''ers grave!


    Lin Longshan was now even more sure that it was Zou San''ers doing. He decided to unearth his body.


    However, when they dug up Zou San''ers body, they gawked in shock. Zou San''ers head was nowhere to be found. His corpse posed in a kneeling position, which was simr to the statue.


    Lin Longshan was terrified. He asked the men to bury the body one more time. Then, he went to town and hired two shamans. They performed dancing rituals to expel the evil spirits and eventually burned the headless bodies of Zou San''er and the old guard.


    At first, it worked. There were no strange phenomena or activities at the lumberyard. Everything was back to normal.


    However, it didntst long. After three days, something strange happened again.


    A worker went to the bathroom at night with a shlight, where he saw two people squatting.


    He recognized the clothes they were wearing. It was what Zou San''er and the old guard had worn before they died! They turned to the light of the shlight, and a faint voice came from the decapitated bodies. All of you will die.


    After dering the threat, they vanished into thin air.


    The lumber worker stumbled and ran back to his shed. He woke up all the workers and told them what he had just seen in the toilet. They didnt really believe him, so they personally rushed to the toilet to check.


    There was nothing in the washroom. The crowd then teased the lumber worker for being a coward. But all of a sudden, someone screamed, Zhi Qiang, why are you kneeling there?


    They went to check and saw one of the slumber workers kneeling on the ground. He had a scary smile over his face.


    Some brave workers went and called him. However, the guy kept kneeling on the ground with a nk face. No matter how loudly the others called him, he didnt move.


    Everybody noticed the strange situation. They wanted to go to their sheds and enshrine a statue of Grandma Huangsan to expel the evil spirits.


    Grandma Huangsan was one of the Five Immortals the Northeastern people had been worshipping. She was considered to be very powerful, especially in the deep forest.


    However, as soon as they dispersed, someone with sharp eyes spotted a strange phenomenon. The man stuttered and called the people to look at the washroom wall.


    In the next moment, everyone became scared. Their faces turned pale, and they almost shrieked in fright!

 Chapter 179: The Stone Statue

    Chapter 179: The Stone Statue


    The shlight shone to the toilet from the yard, which elongated Zhi Qiangs shadow.


    It turned out that there was another shadow in front of his, and that shadow was headless. It was wielding a massive machete, ready to hack down at any second!


    Zhi Qiang was all alone in the toilet. So, whose shadow was that?


    While people were scared, an old worker finally reacted. Start praying to Grandma Huangsan!


    Several men rushed back to the shed. However, before they could get in, they all heard a screech. The shadow had shed Zhi Qiang. They saw the head of Zhi Qiangs shadow fall off his neck and roll on the ground. Blood spurted and streamed down


    Everybody was petrified in shock. Several workers slumped on the ground in fright. They then hid in the sheds and worshipped Grandma Huangsan for the whole night.


    For the whole night, they heard the sound of someone walking around the vast lumberyard. This person wanted to enter their sheds but seemed afraid to do so. The shadow reflected on their windows scared them out of their wits.


    They stayed like that until the break of dawn. They then went to the toilet to check. Zhi Qiang was beheaded, and his blood had dyed the entire toilet in red. The smell of the toilet plus the stench of blood made people vomit.


    Lin Longshan was notified. When he arrived and saw the scene, he was also shocked. The lumber workers didnt dare to stay there anymore. As Lin Longshan was afraid that more people would be killed, he hastily buried the corpse and brought his other workers away with him, leaving the lumberyard.


    At the same time, he invited some shamans to deal with this problem. However, as soon as the shamans heard about the deaths, they didnt dare toe. In desperation, Lin Longshan had to invite Chuyi.


    In the past, Chuyi had checked the geomancy of thisnd and advised him to set up the lumberyard here. That was how Lin Longshan knew him.


    After Lin Longshan said that, I felt something was wrong. Deep in the forest dwelled so many spirits, animals, and even ghosts. However, it was rare for them to take peoples lives without a warning or indication.


    Except for monsters, only evil ghosts would do that!


    I was puzzled. Lin Longshan had said that the second man died after seeing the first victim. In other words, there was a chance that the second victim was killed by Zou San''er, the first victim.


    Additionally, the third man was beheaded by an executioner. This meant the second and third victim didnt die due to the same person. Was there more more than one evil spirit?


    I told Lin Longshan my doubts. He shook his head like a rattle drum. Im also at a loss. But I suspect that Zou San''er was the executioner. Perhaps his soul couldnt rest in peace and


    When he came to this part of the story, he suddenly shut his mouth. It was as if he had just slipped his tongue.


    I was surprised and looked at Lin Longshan. Tell me, why do you think so? Why would hee back to kill people?


    Lin Longshan said, No particr reason. People who died in the woods would have a lot of resentment building inside them. Also, Zou San''er was a hot-tempered man. I think it was likely for him to be an evil ghost after he died.


    Li Mazi sneered and said, Boss Lin, are you sure you contacted Zou San''ers family topensate them?


    Lin Longshans face darkened. What do you mean?


    Smelling the hostile atmosphere between them, I interrupted their conversation. Hey, dont quarrel. Since its still early in the morning, we should seize the opportunity and go there and check.


    Lin Longshan nodded then took us to the car to go to the lumberyard.


    On the way there, he told us that it would take two hours to reach the destination. In other words, we would only have one hour before night fell. After one hour, we would have to leave the forest.


    If its not a problem, we should sleep at the lumberyard tonight! I suggested.


    After hearing my suggestion, cold sweat fell from Lin Longshans forehead. Brother, we cant. I dont know much about your profession. If I stay, I wont be able to help you and itll be more dangerous. If not, we should use two different cars


    I hesitated then agreed with him. It wouldnt be helpful for us if Lin Longshan stayed, anyway.


    We soon entered the forest. As soon as we got in, exuberantly thick branches and leaves hindered the sunlight. It felt like it had suddenly turned dark. The drivers had to turn on the light.


    This ce had a wide road, which was used to transport the wood. Although the road was wide enough, the tree branches still created a roof over it. Some sunbeams managed to pierce through the leafy coverage, shining on the ground like golden scales.


    I quite enjoyed this scene. Nature had done quite a good job, turning this whole road into a green corridor.


    After two hours, we had traveled more than fifty kilometers. Lin Longshan, are we entering the inner area of Xingan Ridges territory?


    Lin Longshan smiled and exined, Were still on the periphery. No one has ever entered the real inner area. Im afraid that even if someone went there, they never returned


    I was astonished. We had traveled for more than fifty kilometers and this was still the periphery. <em>How vast is this forest? Its huge!</em>


    As I lived in a city, it was really rare to see such a big forest. I decided to enjoy the scenery. This ce was more interesting and beautiful than any level 5A scenic area. [1] If I had the chance, I would bring Yin Xinyue here to go on an adventure.


    Soon after, we entered the lumberyard. This lumberyard was really big. It was even bigger than two football fields. A huge pile of woods sat in a corner, while broken branches, twigs, and leaves were everywhere. Some in wooden lodges were situated in the East. I guessed they were the workers sheds.


    Li Mazi asked, Boss Lin, do you have permission to cut the timbers here?


    Of course I do. The Department of Forestry is very strict these days. Without permission, you will be jailed for several years. Also, you will be fined until you sell all of your assets, Lin Longshan answered.


    I was a little sad that they were allowed to exploit the woods in this beautiful ce. This ce was the property of humanity. They shouldnt grant anybody permission to take down the trees.


    I first asked Lin Longshan to take me to see the stone statue they had unearthed.


    I suspected that the stone statue was an otherworldly item and had killed three people!


    Lin Longshan drove us to the back of the sheds.


    Around three or four kilometers away from the sheds, we found the stone statue.


    That stone statue didnt look like someone had carved it. There was no trace of carving work and it looked as if nature had created it that way. Although they said it looked like a kneeling person, it was really abstract. Without a close look, we couldnt tell that it was a kneeling person.


    The stone statue was covered in a thinyer of some ck substance. I scratched it and the substance was easily scraped away.


    When we unearthed this stone statue, we saw this shell-like thing. I feel like its some dried bird poop, guessed Lin Longshan.


    I told him, This is not bird poop. This is blood!


    Blood? Lin Longshans face paled in fright.


    Yes, its dried blood. I guess thisyer of blood is around seventy or eighty years old, but it doesnt feel like human blood.


    Oh. Lin Longshan exhaled in relief. Its good that its not human blood.


    Dig it up, I said. I want to see if Zou San''ers body is still there.


    Lin Longshan hesitated. The corpse should be dposing by now. Its not good to dig it up.


    Since Lin Longshan didnt want me to see the corpse, he had to be hiding something from me. I was enraged but didnt show it. I just told him to hurry up because we didnt have much time left.


    Lin Longshan was helpless. He started digging. Shortly after, we saw Zou San''ers body.


    I thought the body would be decaying by now, but I was wrong. Instead, it had turned ck and was in a kneeling position.


    <em>The entire body turned ck? Was he poisoned?</em>


    I looked at Lin Longshan and said, What happened? Why has the corpse turned ck, and why hasnt it dposed?


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AAAAA_Tourist_Attractions_of_China

 Chapter 180: Ghost Linking Thread

    Chapter 180: Ghost Linking Thread


    Lin Longshan shook his head. How could I possibly know?


    When the corpse turns ck and doesnt decay, there are two possibilities. The first reason is that it was poisoned by corpse toxin, which would turn it into a zombie shortly after. The second one is that the victim had eaten a lot of mercury or heavy metals, which poisoned him to death. Mercury can preserve the body, preventing it from dposing. However, it will turn the corpse ck


    Lin Longshan said nothing. He looked at the corpse with a guilty conscience.


    I could guess the reason for Zou San''ers death. He likely disobeyed his team leader or offended someone here. He was thus tormented to death.


    In short, he was murdered.


    Unfortunately, I was just an otherworldly merchant, not a policeman. This was the sort of thing I couldnt afford to manage. If we pushed Lin Longshan on the matter, the two of us wouldnt be able to get out of here alive.


    People said that there are two kinds of people you should never provoke, ship owners and forestry station owners. Since the forest and the sea were remote and isted ces, if these guys wanted to kill you, it would be as easy as killing a fish or chopping down a tree.


    Dig this nearby area, I said.


    Lin Longshan brought over his driver and made him dig the ce.


    Shortly after, I saw something strange.


    It was a white bone as big as an infants hand. It was somewhat round with several small holes.


    I observed it and guessed it was an animals skull.


    I asked Lin Longshan to take a look. Since he grew up in the Northeastern, he must know about the animals here.


    After checking, Lin Longshan recognized it and said, Its a rooster skull.


    <em>A rooster skull?</em>


    I was dumbstruck for a while. Shortly after, I came up with a possibility that made me shiver in fear.


    I asked him to dig deeper.


    The driver kept digging, and soon after, he had unearthed several other rooster skulls.


    If Im not mistaken, we will find some human remains if we dig deeper, I said.


    The driver wasnt totally convinced, but he still thrust his iron shovel into the soil and dug deeper. Sure enough, he found something that made him gawk in shock soon after.


    There were really human skeletons down there and they were all missing their heads.


    Around the skeletons were also scattered some copper coins.


    I grabbed his shovel and dug the soil on both sides. More and more coins appeared in front of me.


    I took a deep breath and threw the shovel aside, stomping on the skeletons three times. Then, I jumped out of the pit and asked, Did anyone bring some red thread?


    Everyone shook their heads.


    In that case, lets go! We dont have the necessary equipment, and something very bad will happen in this lumberyard tonight.


    When Lin Longshan saw the skeletons, he was already frightened. After hearing my words, he immediately got in the car.


    Li Mazi kept looking at me. I growled and said, Why are you standing there? Quickly, move!


    While getting inside the car, Li Mazi asked me, Is that the rumored Ghost Linking Thread?


    I nodded. Yeah, we must get out of here before it gets dark. Otherwise, Im afraid we will die here!


    Li Mazi was scared and quickly followed me to the car, asionally checking the rear mirror.


    Did you find something? Lin Longshan asked.


    I said impatiently, Why did you choose this ce to bury the corpse? Why not somewhere else?


    <em>Was it purely a coincidence? No, I dont buy it. This forest is huge, no way they just happened to choose that ce!</em>


    We thought of this ce because it is always under the sunlight. Thats why we chose it.


    I frowned. When we choose a location for a tomb, we often choose where the sunlight cant reach it. Why did you choose this ce?


    Lin Longshan sighed. Brother, let me tell you honestly. Zou San''er was a person with learning disability that I personally brought here. He worked in my lumberyard for many years, and hed earned enough money to raise a family. I had even wanted to find him a good wife, but right at that moment, he was murdered by another worker. I think you understand what I had to do in such a case, right? I had done what a boss had to do. I could only bury Zou San''er.


    I knew that Zou San''er had died unjustly and that his soul couldnt rest in peace. As such, I chose a ce under direct sunlight in hopes that the sunlight could suppress his grudge


    Lin Longshan was acting as if everything hed done was right and just.


    Although I was furious, I didnt show it. I even pulled Li Mazi aside and signaled at him not to talk. If Lin Longshan discovered that we wanted to report this matter to the police, the two of us would be in grave danger.


    I tried not to continue the topic and analyzed the situation. That stone structure was actually a decapitation tform. This decapitation tform was used to subdue the evil souls underneath it. Since youve unearthed the tform, the evil souls underneath are now free to wreak havoc!


    A decapitation tform? Lin Longshan gulped. To whom did the skeletons under the tform belong? And, why did we also find chicken heads here?


    I patiently exined them the whole story.


    The skeletons belonged to the bandits that had imed this area.


    However, not just anybody could be a bandit. To join the bandit band, there was a challenge they needed to ovee.


    They would cut a rooster head and put it on the decapitation tform. Then, they would check it the next morning. If the chicken head fell off the tform, it meant their ancestors didnt want to recruit that person because he could betray them one day. If that happened, that person wouldter be beheaded.


    But if the chicken head stayed on the tform, it meant the ancestors epted him. It also meant their ancestors would protect his life once in the future.


    Everybody knew that when the bandits were captured, they would be decapitated. That was why they chose the decapitation tform as their guardian.


    The skeletons underneath the tform were from the poor bandits that didnt pass the guardians test. They died unjustly and wereter tortured by the sunlight and suppressed by the tform. It would be strange if there was no resentful energy here.


    Furthermore, this ce had likely been unearthed once in the past!


    When that happened, the resentful souls must have threatened the people living here. To stop them, an expert had used an old method in the Northeast called the Ghost Linking Thread. They would chain coins to a red treat then tie the skeletons to the decapitation tform to seal the resentful souls.


    Since it happened a long time ago, the red thread was gone and only the coins were left behind. If no one had provoked them, these souls would still be sleeping. However, as their skeletons were exposed, something horrible would happen tonight.


    It was also the reason why I urged them to leave the lumberyard as fast as possible.


    After I finished talking, Lin Longshan paled in fear. He took a deep breath. Did Master Chuyi want to harm me? He chose a banditir for me to build my lumberyard on!


    Certainly, Chuyi didnt do that to harm Lin Longshan. He had his reason, which neither of us knew.


    I called Chuyi and asked him for the details. However, my call didnt get through.


    This wasnt strange as Chuyi specialized in disappearing. It was already lucky that we could contact him once out of ten calls.


    How are you going to deal with those resentful bandit souls? Lin Longshan asked.


    We can only use the Ghost Linking Thread. Lets see if we can subdue them. Otherwise, we will need some other solution.


    Lin Longshan nodded.


    Little Brother Zhang, I need to pee Li Mazi suddenly said to me.


    I was puzzled. Normally, when Li Mazi said this to me, he implied something.


    I shot him a nce and saw that Li Mazi was nervously watching the driver. I followed his eyes and watched the driver as well...

 Chapter 181: Grandma Huangsan

    Chapter 181: Grandma Huangsan


    I was immediately stunned. The driver had his eyes closed; his face was tense, as if he were afraid of something.


    Lin Longshan said, Little Liu, stop the car. Let this brother get off to do his business.


    The driver didnt pull the car over; he kept driving with his eyes closed.


    Lin Longshan had yet to notice the drivers strange behavior, so I signaled him to look at the driver.


    Lin Longshan shrieked in fear the moment he did.


    I immediately covered his mouth as this would be the worst moment to make a ruckus.


    I was certain that the driver was possessed, and he would be hostile if the spirit inside him was alerted. If we smashed against a tree at the speed we were going, we would either die or end up disabled.


    This remote, deste area didnt have any dwellers. Getting hurt here wouldnt be any different from signing a death sentence.


    Lin Longshan looked at me in fear, gesturing me to quicklye up with a solution.


    I forced myself to calm down, then I turned around and looked at the car behind us.


    The other driver was also driving with his eyes closed.


    Crap, somethings wrong, Lin Longshan suddenly said, It seems like were going back


    What? I checked both sides of the road and noticed how both cars had turned around; we were somehow heading back to the lumberyard.


    Since we werent prepared, we would definitely die if we spent the night at the lumberyard!


    Li Mazi pointed at the door, wondering if we should jump off the running car.


    I cursed in my heart, <em>Are you crazy?! The car</em><em>is running</em><em>at 150 km/h! Well die if we jump...</em>


    I drew the Sirius Whip, preparing to force the driver to stop. At the same time, I motioned Lin Longshan to be ready to take the wheel.


    I wanted to subdue the driver so that Lin Longshan could seize the chance to stop the car.


    However, the car slowed down before I could make a move. I was surprised, thinking that the driver was scared.


    However, I felt desperate once the lumberyard came into view. I didnt expect that we were already that close.


    It was of no use to stop the car right now. We could only wait for the driver to park inside the lumberyard.


    Lin Longshan jumped off the car before it came to aplete stop.


    Li Mazi and I also got off, while pulling the driver out of the car.


    The driver was now unconscious.


    Lin Longshan poured his anger on the driver, kicking him twice. You bastard, were you trying to kill me?!


    I hurried to stop him, since it wasnt the drivers fault.


    Just put this guy inside the trunk and leave. Perhaps we can get out of the forest before the night falls! Lin Longshan suggested.


    Those evil spirits dont want us to leave. Whoever tries to drive the car will be possessed.


    Lin Longshan was dumbfounded. Brother, dont tell me that were going to stay here tonight...


    I could only nod. Theres no other way.


    What? Lin Longshan yelped, dropping his jaw in fright. Youre joking, right? We have to stay here? Wouldnt this be like a death sentence?


    We dont have a choice, I answered, We have to spend the night here. Dont worry. Although we cant expel those evil spirits, its not difficult to protect ourselves.


    Lin Longshan nodded after hesitating for a while. All right, lets give it a try.


    Then, he nced at the two unconscious drivers. What should we do with them?


    I propped them up and pressed their philtrums. It worked, and they soon regained consciousness. They looked at me in puzzlement. What What just happened? When did I fall asleep?


    Lin Longshan reprimanded them for being useless, but the drivers were still clueless. They even urged us to get into the cars and drive back. Too bad that it was toote!


    It seemed their minds had gone nk even before they had gotten in the cars. In other words, they had been controlled right from the start.


    Lin Longshan cursed, Get in the car your sister! We have to stay in the lumberyard tonight. Damn, both of you caused all this.


    Then, he quickly brought us to the sheds. He wanted to use the wood beams to seal all windows and doors.


    Li Mazi sneered. Closing doors and windows will also eliminate our escape route.


    He was right. After all, there was no way a window could stop an evil spirit. Instead, we were the ones who would need to use it if we encountered something dangerous in the room.


    Lin Longshan asked for my opinion. I gave him a nod, indicating that he should follow Li Mazis indications.


    Since the two drivers had been possessed once, their Yang energy had gotten low while their Yin energy had increased. I wanted to cook some ginger soup for them so that they could expel the Yin energy.


    However, we looked around and saw that there was no ginger left. I felt puzzled. How could they not store ginger in a ce like this? During the bitter cold winter, drinking ginger tea was good for the body. And, I knew that ginger was an essential spice for Northeastern people who worked away from home.


    Lin Longshan was also puzzled. He often brought them free ginger. Two days prior, he had just delivered another batch of ginger. While wondering about the fact, he ran to the kitchen to check and found the leather bucket they used to keep ginger empty.


    Lin Longshan yelled and cursed, Those bastards even took away all the ginger!


    I didnt think that the lumber workers had taken the ginger away. As they were in a rush, they probably even forgot to take essential products, let alone the ginger.


    Something popped up in my head. Lin Longshan, do you have lime here?


    No, we dont.


    However, I looked around the room and found something that could rece lime, flour and salt.


    I poured flour and salt into the wok and stirred them up; then I ced a handful into the leather bucket.


    Soon after, ck handprints had appeared on the bucket.


    Lin Longshan screamed in fear, almostnding on his butt.


    It seems it was not a living person to steal the ginger, I said, It could be Zou Saner, the stone statue, or even the resentful souls of the bandits.


    That stone statue can move? Lin Longshan looked at me in disbelief.


    Of course, I said, That stone statue became an otherworldly item. If it has ascended and turned into a spirit, it can do anything humans can.


    Li Longshan was scared and hurried to throw the leather bucket outside.


    Then, he burned three joss sticks, setting them on the altar where they worshiped Grandma Huangsan.


    No need to pray. Its useless. I took out a cigarette and threw it to Li Mazi, then I lit another one for myself and puffed deeply.


    Grandma Huangsan should always appear with a smile. However, although the statue in front of us also held a smile, hers was sinister. I was sure that someone had tampered with the statue!


    Lin Longshan looked at me, puzzled by my answer. Why is it useless? We always worship Grandma Huangsan.


    You should check and see if theres something on Grandma Huangsans back.


    Lin Longshan turned the statue around to check, and he told me in fear, There seems to be a red fingerprint!


    Thats mouse blood. Someone is using mouse blood to bribe Grandma Huangsan. Thats why she hasnt helped youtely, I told him.


    What? Lin Longshans fear rose to a new level. Grandma Huangsan can be bribed? Ive worshiped her for more than ten years. Shouldnt she protect me?


    I replied coldly, Animals will always act instinctively. They dont have human emotions. Even if youve kept one for a hundred years, it will betray you once someone else feeds it. Lets go, we should return to the shed!


    Lin Longshan took a nce at Grandma Huangsans statue while gritting his teeth in rage. In the end, he also decided to throw the statue outside. Damn, how bold of you! I wont worship you anymore!


    Lin Longshan then asked me, What should I worship?


    As long as you dont do anything that makes your conscience feel restless or guilty, the virtue youve umted would protect you, even if you dont worship a thing.


    Lin Longshan smiled bashfully, not making any otherments.


    The sky outside was already dark when we got back to the room. It was around just 4 PM, but it was getting dark really fast at Xingan Ridge.


    Lin Longshan was scared; he kept nervously looking through the window.


    I turned to talk to the two drivers. Im sorry, but youll have to suffer a bit. I need to tie you down, but its for everyones sake.


    The two drivers agreed. I guessed they saw my skills and they trusted me.


    I tied them to the bedposts and asked Lin Longshan to close doors and windows, while we all sat on the beds.


    I decided to go to the kitchen and cook something once I saw that Lin Longshan was still panic-stricken. The sorghum wine avable could boost his courage.


    The more people were afraid of ghosts, the stronger the ghosts would be. If people werent afraid of them, the ghosts would be afraid instead! This was a well-known principle since ancient times!


    The world outside was submerged in darkness after we finished having dinner and drinking the sorghum wine. We switched all of the lights on.


    I didnt n to deal with the spirits that night, since we didnt have anything prepared. We just needed to defend ourselves and take a chance to probe the spirits intentions.


    Our bodies felt warmer and morefortable after drinking two sses of wine. The previous worries had vanished from our minds.


    I was neither worried nor restless as it was a case that Chuyi had arranged for us; it meant he thought the two of us could handle things well.


    Li Mazi also changed after drinking the wine. Even if a tiger were lurking out there, he would jump out to beat it up.


    The sorghum wine was of good quality, that was probably why we felt the way we did.


    Shortly after, strong gusts of wind started to blow over from the forest. This wind didnt sound like the typical wind one would hear.


    The wind sounded more like a woman crying and weeping as it meandered through the tree branches.


    My fear started to grow after listening to the wind.


    The wind grew louder and harsher, eventually making all the windows rattle noisily. Then, rain started to fall. The bean-sized raindrops began to hit the roof, sounding as if someone was knocking at the door. I instantly had goosebumps, but not because of fear. It was my trypophobia ring up.


    The rain made rattling noises with the wind. Lin Longshan told me that this stormy weather wouldst for a while.


    Its good that itll take a while for the rain to stop. Rainwater has heavy Yang energy. Ordinary ghosts or evil spirits would avoid going out!

 Chapter 182: The Rooster Beheading Ceremony

    Chapter 182: The Rooster Beheading Ceremony


    Out of the blue, one of the drivers screamed. I immediately turned to ask him, Are you okay?


    He nervously pointed at the door with his chin. I turned to check, but the door seemed normal at first sight.


    He then pointed at the door panel.


    I lowered by head and saw a stream of water flowing underneath the door. However, there was a clear streak of blood flowing in the water.


    Lin Longshan was scared; he retracted his legs and ced them on top of the bed. He nervously asked me, Did somebody die outside?


    Li Mazi grabbed a shotgun that was hung on the wall, loaded it, and then passed it to me. Little Brother Zhang, back me up. Im going to see whats making a mess out there.


    I hurried to stop him. He might fall into the trap of the other party if he went out unarmed!


    I smeared the salt and flour mixture on the shotgun Li Mazi had given me and threw it back to him. I held some flour in one hand and the Sirius Whip in the other before carefully opening the door...


    I was chilled by the wind that crazily blew in through the door. The wind also dispelled the wine aroma.


    I took a deep breath and opened the door wider, throwing the flour and salt mixture outside.


    The mixture fell on the floor together with the rain, and I clearly saw a headless figure in a kneeling position by the door.


    I was undoubtedly scared by this, so I quickly moved back, but I still used my Sirius Whip tosh out before drawing back.


    The figure didnt react; it remained still after the attack.


    From inside the shed, Lin Longshan asked, Whats going on?


    I took a deep breath and waved my hand at him. Nothing.


    Li Mazi rushed forward and pointed his shlight at the space outside.


    The figure turned out to be a stone statue!


    <em>Damn, who moved the stone statue here?</em> The sentient item would be the only one able to do this, if it wanted to harm people. It was impossible for the statue to move around on its own.


    I checked around, and nobody was there. I thought that person had already run away.


    Who did this? Get your ass out here. Come and fight me if you have the guts! Li Mazi angrily fired a shot into the air.


    However, no one answered.


    Lin Longshan was curious, so he moved closer to see; he gawked in shock when he saw the stone statue. Bastard! Zou Saner, Im sure I never treated you badly. Why are you hounding me?!


    I wondered if Lin Longshan was an idiot, since he kept on insisting that it was Zou Saner who had done all those things.


    I inspected the stone statue, trying to see where the blood came from.


    I didnt take long to spot it. The rain water was washing away the blood from the neck of the statue; there was a chicken head bleeding on top of it.


    As it was pouring down, the chicken head slowly slid downward.


    My pupils erged as I screamed, Dont let that chicken head fall!


    I stormed forward, trying to reach and support the head.


    However, it was toote. After barely taking two steps, a strange gust of wind rushed over and the chicken head fell, sshing water as it reached the ground!


    Damn, I cursed, Someone will die tonight


    I closed the door and turned to see the people in the shed. Guys, dont panic. Stay calm. One of you will die tonight if you dont do what I say.


    Lin Longshan was frantic as he replied, Absolutely! We will do what you say!


    I asked them, All of you should go and sit on the bed. I want to check who was targeted by the bandits.


    Li Mazi sat on his bed and asked me, What do you mean?


    The resentful bandits souls have just started the ceremony. They want to recruit one of us to be a bandit. Thats why we saw a chicken head on the statue. If we could have stopped the head from falling, at most, one of us would have ended up in some evil gang.


    But the chicken head did fall. That means he was rejected by the guardian or their ancestors. ording to the bandits rule, rejected candidates must be beheaded!


    Their eyes were wide open in shock after they heard what I said. They looked at each other, unable to utter a word.


    Lin Longshan was terrified. How can we spot the one who the bandits haveid their eyes on?


    I said, Its simple. That person knows hes been followed because he has been notified.


    My eyes moved from one driver to the other. I wondered if that evil thing had told one of them about their recruitment while they were possessed.


    I noticed that the driver who had driven us there had a strange expression. He was looking at Lin Longshan with panic-stricken eyes. He quickly looked away when he saw me watching him.


    I walked to him, smiling coldly. You must know who it is, right?


    If I guessed correctly, he had to be the one who was notified.


    The driver shook his head. It wasnt me. Really, it wasnt me.


    Nonsense! Lin Longshan ran to him and cursed, Spill it quickly! Damn, you want to die?! Now, only these two brothers can help you!


    The driver shook his head harder. Boss, I-I I saw an illusion earlier today. The bandit told me that he wanted to recruit you. Tonights ceremony was prepared for you. I didnt think it was true, but now it seems it wasnt just my imagination...


    Lin Longshan paled immediately. Thats impossible. Youre spouting nonsense!


    Stay calm. I patted Lin Longshans shoulder. I can ensure your safety.


    Then, I turned to look at Li Mazi and he quickly understood what I meant. He approached Lin Longshan with the intention to tie him up.


    Lin Longshan was bewildered. What do you mean by this?


    The bandits cante here and take your life, Iforted him, They can only make you hallucinate so that you cut your own head. I will tie you down to prevent you from harming yourself.


    Lin Longshan cooperated, although he was scared out of his wits. He allowed Li Mazi to tie him onto the bed.


    The wind was still howling outside. I walked to the door and nced at the beheaded statue. I didnt know why blood was still trickling down. It had been a long time and it was just a small chicken head... why wasnt the blood washed away even after all this time?


    Right when I was ruminating in front of the statue, Lin Longshan shrieked behind me, Hey, Little Liu, what are you doing?!


    I was shocked when I saw that Driver Liu had already undone his ropes and was standing in front of Lin Longshan, his expression menacing.


    Lin Longshan was scared out of his wits. He wiggled and shrieked, crying for help.


    Driver Liu swiftly took out a dagger from Lin Longshans pocket and prepared to use it to slit his own throat.


    Everything happened very quickly, but Li Mazi was on alert. He immediately grabbed a chair nearby and smashed it on Driver Lius head.


    The man seemed all right even though the chair was broken to bits. He then rushed toward the window and jumped out.


    I chased after him, but Driver Liu had already disappeared.


    <em>Holy crap</em>, I cursed under my breath.


    Needless to say, the bandits wanted to recruit Driver Liu, not Lin Longshan. Driver Liu had deceived us!


    I hurried to untie Lin Longshan. He dashed to the window as soon as he was freed and hurled curses at Driver Liu.


    The other driver begged me to save his friend.


    I hesitated. <em>Can I even save him? I didnt bring anything, aside from the Sirius Whip. Im afraid I wont be unable to return alive if I take on the opponent directly.</em>


    While I hesitated, the other driver cried out in surprise, Little Lius right at the door. Look! Hes right at the door!


    I ran to the door, and a shadow swiftly passed by, disappearing soon after. Before leaving, it threw something near the shed.


    I dashed out to chase after the shadow. However, Driver Liu was nowhere to be seen. At the same time, the people behind me shrieked in fright.


    I took a deep breath and slowly returned to the shed. On my way back, I almost tripped on something very slippery.


    I lowered my head to check and was immediately scared. There was half a tongue on the ground, and I had just stepped on it. Blood sshed out from the cut.


    The tongue looked fresh. Needless to say, it was Driver Lius.


    <em>Why did the bandit make Driver Liu cut his tongue instead of his head? It wasnt supposed to go like this...</em>


    The window behind me was gently pushed open, and I subconsciously turned around to look. Driver Liu was kneeling by the window, emting the beheaded stone statues pose.


    He raised his head, giving us a faint smile while blood streamed from his mouth. I was barelying to grips with the situation when something ck brushed past his neck. Right after that, his head fell off and rolled like a ball. The cut was awfully neat. Blood spurted very far, dyeing Lin Longshan red.


    The head also rolled and stopped by Lin Longshans feet. Lin Longshans eyes rolled back, and he fainted on the spot.


    I was also terrified! What was that thing that could cut his neck so neatly?

 Chapter 183: Sending the Army to Wipe Out the Bandits

    Chapter 183: Sending the Army to Wipe Out the Bandits


    Driver Lius headless body was still kneeling by the window. Blood kept on flowing from his neck; its red hue looked particrly frightening in the quiet of the night.


    It wasnt just Lin Longshan; the other driver had also fainted due to the fear. I rushed forward and kicked the body away, closing the window.


    The beheaded statue was gone. The only thing left was the chicken head lying in a puddle of blood. Its bloodshot eyes were still wide open.


    Li Mazi was also scared. He was on high alert with his back against the wall, holding the shotgun tight.


    I didnt waste time and went to press Lin Longshans and the drivers philtrums to wake them up.


    They crouched in fear as soon as they regained consciousness. The only thing I could do at the time was to ask them to stay in their beds while I sat by the door to keep watch.


    I was also helpless, since I wouldnt be able to do a thing if the statue showed up again.


    However, no one else was supposed to die that night, since it had already seized a life.


    Nevertheless, it was still nerve racking to wait until the break of dawn. I started the car once we saw the first light beaming from the East, and we quickly left the lumberyard.


    This time, we didnt bump into anything strange on our way out, but Lin Longshan was still too shaken to speak when we reached his house.


    I did my best tofort him and calm him down. Our priority was to find something to deal with the decapitation tform. We had to go back and deal with it tonight!


    However, Lin Longshan was terrified at the idea of going there. Brother, Ill give up my lumberyard, you should leave. I dont care about it anymore.


    How can you say that? I said, Even if you dont want the lumberyard, the thing inside is still wreaking havoc. Those bandits will keep on killing.


    I dont care, Lin Longshan said, I just want to live. I have to take care of my family and children


    Hmph, Li Mazi snorted and replied, Do you think they would forget about you if you leave things be? Remember who provoked them in the first ce! Youre the main culprit. If you dont get rid of them, they will go after you and even your family. Ive never heard about anyone who could survive after getting targeted by bandits souls!


    Li Mazi managed to scare Lin Longshan, who nodded with difficulty. What are the chances of us winning?


    I hesitated. If you listen to me, Im one hundred percent sure wed win.


    Lin Longshan had a questioning look once he heard my reply, so I had to tell him my n.


    Lin Longshan was still doubtful after he heard the whole thing. Will it work? What if it doesnt? Wont we all be in grave trouble?


    I gave him a cold smile. If you dont believe in me, there is nothing we can do. Actually, I would have already left if Chuyi hadnt asked me to do this.


    Although Lin Longshan was reluctant, he could only nod his head. All right, Ill do as you say.


    I didnt get to sleep the previous night so I waspletely exhausted. I held the Sirius Whip tightly while resting in Lin Longshans house.


    Lin Longshan was already back with a dozen lumberjacks when I woke up; the house was full and boisterous. However, everybody quieted down as soon as I walked out of the bedroom. They were all giving me strange looks.


    I cleared my throat. If you guys follow my instructions tonight, Im sure I can solve the problem with the decapitation tform. Our deceased brothers will be able to finally rest and the lumberyard will be back in operation!


    The atmosphere became strange after I said that. People started to mutter and whisper to each other.


    In the end, an old man stood up and roared, Boss Lin, you were not honest. You called us here to give uspensation. We didnt expect that you would trick us intoing to deal with that thing.


    Lin Longshan answered, Guys, dont panic. This brother here is a famous exorcist. Theres nothing in this world he cant deal with. You guys just need to follow us to the lumberyard. I promise to hand out your payments and a bonus after that. Of course, you would be our lumberyard heroes if you guys still want to work with me after this. I would double your wages!


    Birds would die for food, while humans would die for money. After listening to Lin Longshan, the men discussed again. However, this time, their resistance had lessened considerably.


    The old man asked me, How are we going to deal with that evil thing? What do we need to prepare?


    Its simple. I just need you guys to follow us to the lumberyard, since your presence would bring Yang energy; the more people, the better. Those foul spirits would have to retreat if they bumped into us. Im sure there would be no danger.


    You think its that simple? the old lumberjack said, We saw two workers getting killed in front of our eyes. No matter how many of us go there, those spirits wont be afraid


    Its because you were afraid of them back then! I sneered. The softer you are, the stronger they will be. It goes both ways: they will be afraid of you if youre not afraid of them!


    It seemed they didnt trust mepletely. I asked Lin Longshan to show them the items I had told him to prepare.


    Lin Longshan walked downstairs and brought up a chest. He opened it and showed them the Kuomintang uniforms. [1]


    I frowned. Lin Longshan, I asked you to find military uniforms of the Eighth Route Army, didnt I?


    They were really hard to find. I borrowed these from a studio. They had to use the Eighth Route Army uniforms today, so they lent me the Kuomintang uniforms instead. Would this cause a problem?


    Whatever, these ones will also do.


    Anyway, think about it. What do bandits fear the most? Theyre afraid of armed forces sent to suppress them. Tonight, we will pretend to be soldiers. Theres no way they wouldnt fear us!


    But theyre ghosts already, will they still be afraid of armed forces? someone asked.


    Whether human or ghost, dead or alive, the fear for our nemeses will never change. I need you to show a bold front. Dont be soft and everything will be all right.


    People looked pensive. After a while, they nodded and started to discuss loudly.


    Eventually, Li Mazi agreed to pay them two thousand renminbi each as a service fee, and everyone epted the task without a bit of hesitation.


    We distributed the soldier uniforms and headed toward the lumberyard.


    The blood streaks were still there when we arrived. However, Driver Lius head was gone, which was a blessing of sorts; I didnt want these people to be scared from the get-go.


    I asked them to change into the Kuomintang uniforms. Then, everybody carried a shotgun and marched toward the decapitation tform.


    The decapitation tform was back in its original position. I wondered if it moved by itself or if someone had moved it. I tried but it was really hard to lift; the stone statue weighed at least five-hundred kilograms.


    I walked to the tform and sat down. Guys, get ready.


    The men busied themselves and loaded their shotguns with soybeans. Once the shotguns were fired, they would st the soybeans into a powder that could affect the bandit ghosts.


    Any person who made a living in the forest would be a certified hunter; all the lumberjacks knew how to use a shotgun. Soon, they had prepared everything. I looked at the big sun above our heads; it was making its descent to the West, and the day was getting darker.


    About an hourter, darkness woulde and cover the area. We would take action at the time.


    Nothing happened while we waited, except for a wolf that came out of nowhere. However, the lumber workers quickly shot it down.


    The night fell, and it was so dark that we couldnt even see our own fingers. I immediately asked them to set up a bonfire and I sshed some corpse oil over it.


    The heavy Yin energy from the corpse oil could lure the bandits out. Once they were out, I would subdue them and seal the beheading tform!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuomintang

 Chapter 184: The Battle in the Lumberyard

    Chapter 184: The Battle in the Lumberyard


    I remained seated on the decapitation tform for the whole time to give them courage. If I did that, they would trust my abilities to deal with the situation. In addition, it could also suppress the bandit ghosts as I wasnt scared of them.


    The fire burned strongly, and the crowd had surrounded the fire and the tform. At this moment, I suddenly had the feeling that I was in the Civil War era, and those people wearing the Kuomintang uniforms were my soldiers.


    After sitting on the decapitation tform for a while, I found that my pants were wet. Bewildered, I reached my hand to check and found some blood.


    <em>Damn, why is there blood on the tform?</em>


    I jolted up instantly, shining my shlight over it.


    I was immediately shocked. I didnt expect that the beheading tformwhich remained clean during the daywould start to bleed. It seemed as if the blood was oozing from the stone, turning into tears that streamed down from the tform.


    The group noticed my strange actions right away; everyone turned to have a look. A smallmotion arose in the crowd when they saw the bleeding tform.


    Brother, whats going on? Lin Longshan immediately ran toward me, sounding flustered.


    I didnt answer. I touched the stone to check and it felt warm; the blood had a simr temperature.


    I took Lin Longshans axe and hacked at the tform. It only left a small dent, but it was enough.


    I checked in detail and found that the inside of the stone was blood-red. It meant that blood had emerged from the stone tform.


    This is a sponge stone. I immediately soothed everyone by saying, This kind of stone can absorb blood. Im sure that someone had poured blood on it during the daytime. The stone absorbed it and the heat of our bonfire made the blood seep out


    Is it human blood? someone asked immediately.


    I shook my head. Its chicken blood.


    Li Mazi and I joined hands and dug the soil underneath the tform. About a dozen minutester, we took out a carton box which was soaked in blood. The carton box was all worn-out, partly due to the muddy soil where it was buried.


    My heart throbbed as I could guess what the box contained.


    I carefully opened it. Indeed, it was just as I had guessed. It was a box full of chicken heads.


    I could imagine what had happened there in the morning.


    Someone had snuck in, bringing with them more than a dozen chickens. They chopped off the heads and ced them on the decapitation tform. In the end, all the heads fell off the tform. Each of those chicken heads represented one person, and as they had failed the decapitation tform challenge, they would be beheaded ording to the bandits rule.


    It meant that the people I had brought with me would die!


    Li Mazi and Lin Longshan knew the story. They exchanged looks after they saw the chicken heads; they could see the fear in each others eyes.


    I immediately blinked, signaling them to not tell the others. Otherwise, if these workers were ovee with fear and lost their fighting spirit, they would die.


    I took out the chicken heads and counted carefully. There were only fifteen, but I had brought neen people with me.


    A possibility popped up in my head.<em>There are only fifteen chicken heads here... does it mean that the other four chicken heads passed the beheading tform challenge? Are they now newly-recruited bandits?</em>


    <em>Who are the four new chosen bandits? And who ced the chicken heads here...?</em>


    I asked Lin Longshan, Did all of your workerse here?


    Lin Longshan shook his head. No, five or six didnte. Whats wrong?


    Why didn''t theye? I asked.


    They said they wanted to go home.


    Did you pay them their sry?


    No, I didnt. Lin Longshan looked at me in puzzlement. He had no idea why I was asking this.


    How much do you owe them?


    "Around twenty thousand renminbi, I guess.


    "Oh, are they <em>that</em> loaded with cash that they dont need your twenty thousand renminbi?


    Impossible. They normally live frugally. They consider money more important than their lives, Lin Longshan answered.


    I took a deep breath. Call them. Lets see if we can contact them.


    Lin Longshan asked gingerly, What happened?


    Its a long story. You just need to do as I say!


    Lin Longshan shook his head again. There is no signal here. I cant call them.


    Sigh! I sighed and replied, Forget it. Im afraid that the person behind this is one of them.


    What? Lin Longshan was immediately enraged. Those bastards dare to do this to me? Anyway, how did you know?


    If Im not wrong, one of them has to be a descendant of the bandits, I exined, Perhaps he wants to recruit some of you to rekindle his ancestors glory. Thats why he wanted to choose suitable candidates among you guys. These chicken heads are the evidence.


    Lin Longshan was infuriated. Dont let me catch him, or Ill skin him alive!


    Once they heard that it was a living person orchestrating everything, the workers rxed a bit. Then, they angrily began to curse at the suspects.


    Guys, be careful, I said, Keep your eyes open. Just shoot if someone shows up!


    They nodded and started observing the area.


    More blood oozed out from the beheading tform. Shortly after, the entire tform was covered in fresh blood. I took out the coins and stringed them together with a red thread. Then, I wrapped the thread around the tform.


    But just as I was doing that, I heard someone shoot. A lumberjack whistled and yelled, Someones over there!


    I looked in the direction he had pointed. Sure enough, there was a swaying figure hanging on a tree.


    The person didnt seem to be hurt despite being shot; he swayed for a while and then settled down.


    Who are you? I shouted with a serious tone.


    The person didnt answer.


    Right then, someone else screamed, Another ones there! I turned around and saw another figure hanging on a tree not far behind us.


    The worker didnt hesitate and immediately shot the figure. The bullet pierced through the shadow, who didnt move in the slightest.


    Yet, when the soybean fragments struck the shadow, they left behind some bright spots. The shadow wiggled as if in pain, but it quieted down shortly and swayed in the wind.


    More and more shadows appeared


    All the shadows hung on the trees, some hung by their necks, while others were hung by their feet. In any case, they all looked gruesome.


    Everyone was startled by this sight; they all seemed ready to make a run for it.


    It was critical to keep our cool in this moment. I warned them, My shotgun wont show any mercy if any of you run and mess up my n.


    The group of workers were reluctant, but they continued shooting. More and more shadows were hit, and their shrieks were endless.


    However, the shadows quickly adapted. They began to hide behind the trees, thus making our attacks ineffective.


    Then, I heard Lin Longshan cry out, Erhu, why are you standing up? Sit down, quick!


    I turned around and saw the man called Erhu taking out a dagger and trying to cut his own throat.


    I charged over at my fastest speed, kicking Erhu and seizing the shotgun in his hand.


    However, it was toote. Although his head wasnt cut off, Erhus throat had been slit open. Blood spurted out with every breath. The workers were clearly shaken by the events and huddled closer.


    Li Mazi shot at the sky once. You motherfuckers, dont me me for being merciless if you dare to retreat!


    His threat worked.


    I stepped forward and checked Erhu to see if we could save him. However, before I could do that, I heard someone screaming, Old Hong, what are you doing?!


    I didnt have time to care about Erhu. I jolted up and saw another worker about to cut his throat.


    Crap! I shot Old Hongs arm without hesitation. Old Hong screeched and curled up on the ground.


    I waved my hands, signaling people to be careful. Then, I went to wrap Old Hongs wound.


    However, Old Hong raised his hands and clutched my neck as soon as I approached him. Im going to strangle you! Im going to strangle you


    He was possessed. Without hesitating, I drew my Sirius Whip and swiftly coiled it around his neck. At the same time, Li Mazi came and grabbed Old Hongs legs to prevent him from struggling free!

 Chapter 185: The Last Mountain Eagle

    Chapter 185: The Last Mountain Eagle


    Old Hongs screeching was ear-splitting. Eventually, he calmed down and coughed until he vomited blood.


    I knew this would happen again so I shouted, All of you, close your eyes! Dont look at those shadows and keep chewing soybeans!


    Then, I stuffed a handful of soybeans in my mouth. The others immediately followed suit.


    When everyone lowered the shotguns and filled their mouths with soybeans, I saw a shadow over my head. It moved through the branches of the big trees, then it jumped down and mingled with the crowd before I could get a better view.


    All of you, be careful! I said, You, and you. Yeah, the five of you,e here.


    The suspicious shadow hadnded close to that group of five; I wanted to make sure it hadnt possessed one of them.


    The group of five wasnt cooperative. I was worried about any looming dangers, so I didnt think twice and fired a shot at the muddy soil near their feet. They were clearly shaken as they finally walked toward me.


    Drop your guns, I ordered.


    They did as they were told, discarding their guns and shakily raising their hands.


    Good, now get on with chewing and eating soybeans. Right now! Chew! I shouted at them.


    They immediately obeyed.


    However, nothing strange happened.


    In other words, that shadow didnt possess any of them.


    I allowed them to move back to their original positions. My eyes scanned the crowd back and forth, trying to see if anyone was acting strange.


    However, it was difficult to tell with the naked eye, so I ordered them to continue chewing the soybeans.


    Right then, I suddenly heard someone screaming behind me, Its m-moving!


    I was perplexed. What is moving?


    The decapitation tforms moving! The workers were quite flustered. The statue just took a step forward.


    I grabbed my shotgun and went over to check. Sure enough, I saw a deep ditch on the ground, which had been created by the movement of the tform.


    Run! The tform hase back to life! The tform hase back to life! A bearded lumber worker shouted in fright, If we dont run, we will all die!


    Tie Han! What the hell are you talking about! Lin Longshan cursed andmanded, Stay where you are!


    Tie Han seemed delirious. No, youre the one who is talking nonsense! Brothers, he wants to sacrifice us to worship the decapitation tform! Run for your lives!


    I will shoot down whoever dares to run away! Li Mazi fired a shot to the sky.


    However, the gunshot was unable to subdue the crowd; the lumberjacks left their positions to scramble around in fear. The scene was aplete chaos.


    I was so infuriated that my face was turning purple. That Tie Han was definitely doing it on purpose!


    I thought about storming forward to pin him down when I suddenly felt a cold wind behind my back. I turned around to check, and the decapitation tform had moved again. This time, it wasing after me!


    I couldnt avoid it in time and was pressed under the tform. Two of my ribs were probably broken; it was very painful, and I couldnt breathe. I felt I was going to pass out soon.


    However, I had to hold on. Everyone there would die once I lost consciousness!


    Another person among the frenzied crowd fell to the ground. It was a ghastly view; his head flew up in the sky and blood sshed everywhere.


    At the same time, someone shrieked, Another one died! Another one died!


    I checked on Tie Han and saw that he was preparing to run away amidst the confusion.


    I gathered thest bit of my strength and said to Li Mazi, Capture Tie Han and tie him to this statue!


    Got it, Li Mazi replied and chased after Tie Han; they started to brawl.


    Lin Longshan was standing on one side with a nk look on his face.


    A knife was in his hand, and he didnt have a shadow under his feet.


    <em>Crap, that shadow possessed Lin Longshan!</em> I didnt dare to attract his attention. I knew he would turn around and kill me if I did.


    I struggled painfully underneath the tform, trying to break free. However, Lin Longshan had already turned my way. There were dark circles under his eyes, and blood was running down from his forehead, dyeing half of his face red. He held a cigarette in his mouth as he walked towards me while wearing a cold grin.


    Stop! I angrily yelled, Lin Longshan, wake up! Or else, your wife and children are going to die!


    However, I couldnt make him snap out of it. It seemed as if he didnt hear my voice as he squatted in front of me.


    I seized the chance and reached out to take the knife in his hand.


    Lin Longshan didnt avoid my touch; his hand felt as rigid and cold as stone.


    With his other hand, he took the cigarette in his mouth and put it into my mouth, motioning me to take a puff.


    <em>Puff you sister!</em>


    Well well, no one had ever dared to reject ck Vultures cigarette. He sneered coldly.


    <em>ck Vulture!</em>


    My body went stiff.


    <em>How could it be him? Is this ck Vulture, the legendary bandit from Tracks in the Snowy Forest? Was his soul still roaming in this world?</em>


    Youve died already, Instead of being afraid, I roared, Youre dead! Yang Zirong killed you!


    That damn Yang Zirong was an army spy! Ill kill you today, and no one will be able to stop me. Im ck Vulture!


    He then stood up and raised the knife in his hand to chop my head off.


    I shouted and called Li Mazi for help.


    While I was screaming, Li Mazi had grabbed Tie Han and pinned him down on the decapitation tform. At the same time, Lin Longshan hacked with his knife, identally cutting off Tie Hans head. Blood sshed over my face like rain.


    Before I closed my eyes, I caught a glimpse of Lin Longshan gawking as if he couldnt believe what had happened. Then, he crouched and slumped like jelly on the ground.


    I knew Id won. I took a deep breath, but my chest hurt so much that I eventually cked out.


    When I woke up, I saw Li Mazi calling someone to lift the stone statue off my chest. I was dejected that I didn''t pass out for longer. Now, I would have to endure more pain.


    Anyway, even seven or eight strong lumberjacks were unable to lift the stone statue.


    I gasped as I talked, First untie the thread used to restrain the souls on the decapitation tform!


    That soul-subduing thread was the red string with some coins attached to it.


    They hurried to untie the soul-subduing thread and noticed how easy it was to lift the tform once it had been removed.


    My chest felt lighter as soon as the statue was moved away. I vomited a mouthful of blood and Li Mazi squatted down as he prepared to take me to the hospital.


    I waved my hand and asked him to put me down. There was something I needed to solve first.


    What are you going to do? Li Mazi asked.


    I asked the workers to unearth all the skeletons near the tform; close to thirty were found. I also asked them to pick up the coins scattered around and to string them together with the red thread. We had to use the thread to tie all the skeletons together.


    The workers eventually tied up the thirty or so skeletons together with the string, before burying them as I told them to.


    I heaved a sigh of relief and asked Li Mazi to take me to the hospital after everything was settled.


    The pain was so bad that I fainted again on the way back. By the time I woke up, I was already in the hospital. Moreover, although my wounds had all been treated, the pain in my chest remained.


    One of your ribs is broken. Youll have to be very careful when you do it with Yin Xinyueter on, Li Mazi teased me.


    Get lost! I shooed him with a wry smile.


    Lin Longshan came to visit me not long after. He brought a lot of supplements. Im so sorry. They told me that I almost cut your head off.


    Li Mazi couldnt hold his tongue, Well, if you say youre sorry, you have to show that youre sorry!


    Lin Longshan was bewildered, but he was quick on the uptake. He took out a check, and began to write the figures. I didnt see how many zeros there were, but Li Mazi looked really pleased.


    Later I saw it was for one million renminbi.


    I then asked Lin Longshan, What was the deal with Tie Han? Why did he do that? Lin Longshan sighed and told me Tie Hans story.


    When Lin Longshan had wanted to open that lumberyard, a very old hunter was dead set against it. The old hunter had grown up in Mount Daxingan, and his house was near the decapitation tform.


    However, he alone couldnt stand up against Lin Longshan and his men. He was expelled soon after. That old hunter was Tie Hans father.


    Later on, the old hunter returned with apletely different attitude. He was very respectful to Lin Longshan; his only request was for his son to be hired.


    Lin Longshan epted. The old man went back to his home in peace after Tie Han was recruited.


    As I listened to Lin Longshan, I made the connection and felt cold sweat running down my back; the old hunter had to be one of ck Vultures bandits.


    He wasnt a normal bandit, either. He probably was the Mountain Eagle.


    The Mountain Eagle was the existence closest to ck Vulture.


    Back then, the bandits that had imed the snowy forest and lived there all the time, and the forest was home to countless evil creatures, ghosts, and monsters. Which bandit hadnt killed people? It would be strange if they did not bump into ghosts and resentful spirits as they went through the forest and mountains. The Mountain Eagle was the person in charge of dealing with paranormal activities.


    Seen from a different perspective, the Mountain Eagles status was almost on par with ck Vulture.


    The Mountain Eagle had the best survival skills, and there was an unspoken belief: the banditir would never be destroyed as long as the Mountain Eagle watched over the decapitation tform, since he would keep on finding new recruits.


    Tie Han had to be the descendant of thest Mountain Eagle. Now that thest Mountain Eagle was dead and the decapitation tform was sealed, the legendary ck Vulture should be also gone for good, right?


    I asked Lin Longshan to take care of Tie Hans funeral. No matter what, that was the Mountain Eagles area, and we were the invaders in a sense.


    Thanks to the strong faith they had held in their hearts, two generations of Mountain Eagles did not hesitate to suffer in silence. They had been subtle, even attempting to recruit Lin Longshans workers to be bandits.


    Faith was mankinds most precious treasure.


    People were willing to do anything to protect their beliefs, even if they had to sacrifice their lives!


    Thanks to faith, any life could be extraordinary.


    No matter if you were an official or a bandit; youre worth being respected if you have such a strong faith.

 Chapter 186: Perpetual Joy Coffin

    Chapter 186: Perpetual Joy Coffin


    The lumberyard finally went back to normality.


    Lin Longshan recognized my talent and wanted me to stay; he even offered me a two hundred thousand renminbi wage. However, I didnt want to be tied down by working for someone else, so I went back home with Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi didnt want to owe anybody. The first thing he did when we returned was to find Chuyi to pay him back.


    Too bad that it wasnt going to be easy. Chuyi came and went without leaving a trace; it was really hard to meet him. That was why we kept the money and waited for him to reappear.


    As we were waiting for Chuyi, the doctors told us that Chu Chus cells were aging and deteriotating at a fast pace. They hadnt found the cause yet and were still running tests.


    It was a subtle way to tell Li Mazi that she didnt have much time left.


    Although Li Mazi looked calm on the outside, his heart was dying. As soon as the doctors left, he found an empty room and cried his heart out.


    Li Mazi openly showed his feelings while Chu Chu suffered in silence. However, I didn''t know how tofort either of them.


    After Li Mazi calmed down, he took me to a local restaurant where we ordered alcohol and some side dishes.


    While eating, Iforted him, How about we ask Chuyi for help? Im sure he could do something.


    Li Mazi said begrudgingly, I have to face reality. I dont wish anything else but for Chu Chu to depart without suffering further. I want her to be happy.


    I eased him by saying, Chu Chus a kind-hearted girl. Shes done a lot of good deeds. Im sure shell go to heaven.


    Li Mazi drank from his tumbler. He lifted his head and asked me, Have you ever heard about the Perpetual Joy Coffin?


    The Perpetual Joy Coffin? I was clueless as I looked back at Li Mazi. Why are you asking about it?


    I knew about the Perpetual Joy Coffin. Chuyi had mentioned it when we were in Wild Dog Ridge.


    The Perpetual Joy Coffin was an extraordinary otherworldly item. Rumor said that no matter how wrongfully someone had died, if the corpse was kept inside the coffin, it would always wear a smiling, satisfied face.


    No matter how strong the resentment of the deceased was, the Perpetual Joy Coffin would wash it away. The person would have a peaceful afterlife.


    However, Chuyi said that such an object was like the Night Dragon Bait; it was something that you could only bump into with luck. Only people of the higher echelons with a lot of connections could make use of this sort of coffinmembers of the royal family for examplebecause it was really hard to find one.


    <em>Is Li Mazi nning to look for the coffin?</em>


    I was astonished by his bold idea. I turned to look at him.


    Li Mazi said, Actually, I have some clues about the Perpetual Joy Coffin. Senior Shu told me about it and he agreed to go with us. If hees with us, Im sure we can find the coffin.


    I fumed and said, That damn old man has one foot in the grave already. I think he wants to use the Perpetual Joy Coffin for himself. You shouldnt listen to his nonsense. He only wants to deceive us.


    No, thats not it, Li Mazi said resolutely, We spoke about the matter in detail. Chu Chu will use it first once she passes on. After her burial, the Perpetual Joy Coffin would be useless; Senior Shu can take it then. Its a win-win situation.


    I was a little baffled. That old man actually has a heart?


    Li Mazi checked his watch and said, Hes about to arrive!


    Only then did I discover that Li Mazi had made an appointment with Senior Shu. At first, Li Mazi had wanted to have a meeting in a hotel, but Senior Shu was worried that he would be exposed. As a result, he suggested booking a table in this local restaurant.


    Senior Shu arrivedte, and he still had that crafty look. People who didnt know him could mistake him for a thief. Once he saw us, he happily walked forward, asking, Are you done discussing? We should be on our way soon!


    Li Mazi said, Were done; we can leave at any time. Senior Shu, are you sure your information is correct?


    Senior Shu smiled and said, Dont worry. Just do as I say. Im sure itll be all right.


    Li Mazi wanted to ask for more details. However, Senior Shu said, Its not convenient to talk in such a crowded ce. We should continue this in the car.


    I was speechless. We havent even prepared anything. Do we have to go right now?


    Senior Shu sneered. Kid, we need to seize each second to get the Perpetual Joy Coffin. Someone else will snatch it if werete by even a second


    Given their obsession with the coffin, they were ready to throw caution to the wind. Li Mazi didnt even bid Chu Chu farewell. He left after sending her a short text message.


    Senior Shu patiently exined all the details rted to the Perpetual Joy Coffin as we drove away.


    Senior Shu had traveled far and wide, making friends everywhere. This time, he found out about the Perpetual Joy Coffin through an old friend of his. His friend was from the Miao Area, and everybody knew about the strange burial custom there, which was to hang the coffins off the cliff sides. They called them hanging coffins.


    Sometimes, people woulde across cliffs that were packed with hanging coffins, getting scared to death if they saw this at night and did not know about such tradition.


    Recently, Senior Shus old friend had climbed a mountain to pick herbs and carelessly fell on a hanging coffin.


    At that time, his situation was really terrible as he had broken his leg.


    Death was the only option after suffering a serious injury in such a deste area. He was scared and he spent a long time crying for help, but no one heard him.


    Out of despair, he sat on the coffin and gathered his strength in hopes to be lucky enough to leave the ce.


    However, he inadvertently drifted off to sleep. When he woke up, he found his surroundings so dark that he couldnt see his own fingers. He groped around and found that he was locked inside the coffin.


    To make things worse, there was a soft and warm body underneath him. He was shocked by this, since it felt as if the person had died recently, but the coffin seemed to be a couple hundred years old.


    Not thinking twice, he kicked the lid open and jumped out.


    The moonlight helped him to see the fresh corpse inside the coffin. It wasnt decayed or rotten; it was very well preserved.


    However, he didnt understand why the corpse was wearing an official uniform from the Ming dynasty; he also carried an ancient bronze sword. His earnest face made him think that it had to be a high ranking official of the imperial court. Although it was a corpse, he was wearing a smile as if he were just sleeping.


    However, most of his clothes had decayed, matching the worn-out appearance of the coffin. The man realized that the court official had been dead for several hundred years, so there was only one reason for his remains to be intact that was the Perpetual Joy Coffin.


    Only the Perpetual Joy Coffin could preserve a corpse for hundreds of years and could even make the deceased smile!


    However, the confirmation came from his own body; the injury on his leg was already half-recovered after only one night. Only a red spot on his skin remained.


    That wound was unable to trouble him any longer, especially as he was an experienced herbal doctor. He eventually climbed up the cliff and reached safely. Once he got home, the first thing he did was to call Senior Shu since the old man had asked him to be on the lookout about any leads rted to the Perpetual Joy Coffin.


    The Perpetual Joy Coffin was an otherworldly item with powerful effects, which made it hard to deal with.


    Although Senior Shu was experienced and had visited ces from North to South, he was old. There were many things that required strenuousbor he couldnt do anymore. That was why he thought about us.


    I didnt hold big expectations for this Perpetual Joy Coffin, since I came to think that otherworldly items and men were the same. No one was good. Using such a coffin was no different from going against the will of the heavens.


    Although it could give the deceased person some benefit, so what? Was it a good thing that the corpse wouldnt decay? How did a smile on the dead persons face do any good?


    But I understood that I couldnt say anything right then. Li Mazi and Senior Shu were two stubborn fools.


    Soon, we entered Hunans territory. Although Yin Xinyues hometown was also in the Miao Area, it was around Yunnans border, which was very far away.


    While we travelled on Hunans provincial road, our car made several turns; I didnt even know if we were still in Hunan or not. We eventually reached a valley inside a small mountain range.


    The ce looked deste. The further we traveled, the narrower and more meandering the road had be.


    I was somewhat annoyed. Senior Shu, do we have to go through this narrow road?


    Senior Shu was all smiles as he nodded. Im going to call my old friend to ask him toe and pick us up.


    We would probably lose our way in these mountains if we didnt have a guide.


    However, Senior Shu called three or four times but he couldnt contact his friend. Since the sky was getting dark, I suggested, How about leaving this ce first? We cane again tomorrow. It would be safer.


    Senior Shu disagreed. Actually, this ce has a nice scenery. I think it would be a good idea to camp here.


    Li Mazi nodded repeatedly.


    How could I not know what they had in their minds?<em></em>Of course they were worried about someone seizing the Perpetual Joy Coffin. They wanted to stay here and keep watch.


    I couldnt change their minds, so I helplessly agreed to stay. Fortunately, the area had a lot of good things. Senior Shu directed us to dig two traps and we caught two Siberian roe deers shortly after.


    My worries vanished once I thought about the delicious roe deer meat. Thest time I had roe deer meat was with Yin Xinyue while we were in the Dai peoples territory. My mouth was already watering.


    After eating the roasted meat, we got in the car and locked the door to sleep. The ce did have a good scenery. The afterglow had dyed half of the sky red and the wind blew through the mountain. Inadvertently, I drifted off to sleep.


    As I dreamt, I felt that something was pressing on my body!

 Chapter 187: Hes Already Dead

    Chapter 187: He''s Already Dead


    At first I thought that either Li Mazi or Senior Shu were rolling in their sleep, so I wanted to push that person away. However, my body waspletely unresponsive when I tried to move my hand. I could only try to open my eyes to see what was going on.


    My eyelids also felt very heavy, as if they were made of lead. I could only vaguely see someone on top of my body; he had a gray goatee and was wearing a red and green attire, like the traditional clothing of the Miao people. Wrinkles crossed his face and a pair of opaque eyes were looking at me.


    I was surprised. What do you want?


    The old man with a goatee answered with a sneer, The Perpetual Joy Coffin doesnt bring perpetual joy. Go back home.


    I was startled again. Did you alsoe here to find the Perpetual Joy Coffin?


    The old man only gave me a mechanical response, Leave, otherwise, youll die without a proper burial!


    I was fearful, knowing that this man was also here topete for the Perpetual Joy Coffin. I immediately tried to break free, but I couldnt move at all.


    I squirmed like an ant on a hot pan, then I suddenly felt someone shaking me hard. My eyes opened after some time, and I finally noticed it was Li Mazi who was shaking me.


    Li Mazi seemed concerned as he looked at me. Are you okay?


    My head was clearing up. I sat up and looked around drowsily. The old man with a goatee was nowhere to be seen.


    It turned out I had just experienced sleep paralysis.


    I exhaled and felt relieved. Nothing. I just had a nightmare


    The sky was getting brighter. Senior Shu was doing some stretching out with the Exercise of the Five Animals. This exercise was said to have been left behind by Hua Tuo, a doctor from the Han dynasty. The old man looked somewhat cute while imitating bear movements.


    Seeing that we were up, Senior Shu gave us two packs of hardtack. The road ahead will be difficult to walk through.


    We ate the biscuits and drank mineral water before we followed Senior Shu to go up the mountain.


    We didnt expect that the Miaos area would be this deste. I had thought we would arrive at our destination after crossing this mountain. However, we had to cross five mountains more to finally see traces of the Miao Vige.


    The journey had worn me out; I couldnt walk anymore. We had climbed mountains and walked for seven or eight hours already. Even if I were a soldier, I couldnt endure this much.


    We rested for a moment to eat something to recover our strength before we continued.


    I noticed something was off as we went further. Senior Shu had be silent and secretive, which was a drastic change whenpared to his enthusiastic attitude on the previous day. I didnt know what he was up to.


    Curious, I asked Senior Shu, Are you worried about the Perpetual Joy Coffin?


    Senior Shu looked at me skeptically. Kid, did a ghost press you down yesterday?


    Yes, I said, How do you know?


    Senior Shu wasnt in the car when I felt the ghost pressing me.


    Senior Shu hesitated for a while and waved his hand in the end. No, nothing.


    I knew he was hiding something from us, so I kept pestering him.


    Eventually, he took out his phone and showed me a picture.


    The old man used a counterfeit, old-fashion phone whose keypad was so worn out that we couldnt see the letters. He showed us a photo on its small screen.


    Have you seen this man? asked Senior Shu.


    I carefully looked at the photo. It was an old man with a wrinkled face, an aquiline nose, and a goatee


    He reminded me of the bearded man who gave me the warning!


    I was startled. Senior Shu, h-he Hes the one who was pressing me down yesterday.


    So it seems. Senior Shu sighed helplessly and said, Hes the one who was supposed to guide us, and also the one who had found the Perpetual Joy Coffin first.


    I arched my brows. Dont tell me that hes already dead.


    Senior Shu said gloomily, Better be ready for anything. Oh, did he tell you anything while he was pressing you down?


    I tried to think but I only remembered a few vague words. I did share the sentence Id heard: The Perpetual Joy Coffin doesnt bring perpetual joy.


    Senior Shu looked even gloomier once he heard that. Notmenting further, he asked us to prepare well and get ready to continue.


    Prepare ourselves well? Prepare for what? I asked Senior Shu but he didnt want to talk; he just kept walking.


    We entered the Miao vige territory after crossing another mountain.


    The name of this Miao vige was Hidden Dragon Vige, which sounded like the name of a banditir. However, the vigers were really friendly and full of curiosity; they flocked and surrounded us since we came from a foreign ce.


    Their hospitality cooled down the moment Senior Shu told them his name. They scattered shortly after.


    I guessed that Senior Shu had done something bad in this vige. Li Mazi loved to gossip so he asked him about it. Senior Shu snorted and said, They are resentful because I married the beauty of their vige. Thats why they gave me the cold shoulder.


    I had a hard time believing what he said. You could tell that he wasnt good-looking when he was young. How could he marry the most beautiful woman of the vige?


    Senior Shu didnt care about their attitude, and he directly led us to a tattered, wooden house.


    The house was at the outer edges of the Miao Vige. We could see the white, funeral couplets and the unique Miao masks hanging at the door from a distance. My heart raced. <em>Crap, is that man really dead?</em>


    No wonder Senior Shu had repeatedly asked us to prepare ourselves. Now I understood what he meant.


    If the person I met yesterday was truly dead, it meant I had really seen a ghost! I shuddered at the thought.


    Senior Shu pushed the door open. The house was deserted and littered with garbage. It seemed nobody had lived there for a while.


    Old Han? Senior Shu called out impatiently.


    However, no one answered him.


    Senior Shus face changed drastically. He directly charged into the house. Li Mazi and I didnt dare to enter, so we waited at the door.


    Senior Shu searched around and then got out with his head hung low. My old friend is really dead.


    I became anxious. Senior Shu, is his death rted to the Perpetual Joy Coffin? I think this coffin is not good at all. We should let it go.


    The courtyards door opened as soon as I said that. A young man wearing white clothes came out and looked at us, his eyes focusing when he saw Senior Shu.


    He asked in a cold tone, Which one of you is Old Shu?


    Senior Shu sped his hands behind his back. Oh, Nephew, you should be calling me Uncle Shu.


    My fathers gone. Before he passed away, he asked me to tell you that the Perpetual Joy Coffin doesnt bring perpetual joy. He escaped a natural disaster but couldn''t escape the supernatural one. You should leave right away! Otherwise, your ending wouldnt be different from my fathers.


    Then, the young man turned and left.


    Senior Shus face darkened after he heard his words. He looked at the back of the young man, and he chased after him as soon as he returned to his senses. Where did you bury your father? I want to see him for thest time.


    The young man took a deep breath. The 36th hanging coffin on the cliff of hanging coffins. You should leave after you see him! My fathers death was really strange.


    How did he die? Senior Shu asked.


    Hmph, you should ask him if you want to know


    Then, the man left in a hurry. He didnt look back, no matter how loud Senior Shu called his name.

 Chapter 188: Cliff of Hanging Coffins

    Chapter 188: Cliff of Hanging Coffins


    Senior Shu stood nkly on the spot for quite a long time. He told himself in the end, Im afraid this Perpetual Joy Coffin isnt something nice.


    Li Mazi became restless after hearing Senior Shus words as he really wanted to get his hands on something that could bringfort to Chu Chu. Senior Shu, what youre trying to say is that it''s not easy to get the Perpetual Joy Coffin, right? The more difficult it is, the faster we should move, dont you think?


    Senior Shu shook his head. Didnt you hear what my nephew said? The Perpetual Joy Coffin doesnt bring perpetual joy. It protects you from natural disasters but not from supernatural ones. Why do you think he said supernatural and not man-made?


    I wouldn''t have paid attention to it if Senior Shu hadnt pointed it out. Senior Shu, whats the difference between a supernatural disaster and a man-made one?


    Senior Shu forced a smile. A big difference. One is man made while the other is the work of ghosts. Cant you see how different they are?


    I still didnt get it.


    Senior Shu said, All right, we should go and see my old friends remains! Everything will be clear by then.


    He immediately took us to the cliff of hanging coffins.


    Li Mazi was worried. Senior Shu, is the coffin harmful for the deceased? I know its been hard to get to this ce, but I dont want to bring home something that will bring us bad luck.


    Li Mazi kept pestering Senior Shu along the way, who eventually got so fed up that he stopped answering questions.


    It didnt take long for us to see the cliff after following the bumpy trail.


    It was the first time I had seen this ce, and it was an overwhelming sight.


    It was a steep cliff that had arge amount of coffins hanging from it. From what I could see, there were at least more than a thousand. I guessed some of them could date back to the Ming dynasty.


    Although it was broad daylight, a ghostly atmosphere lingered in the area that gave people chills. Li Mazi was somewhat scared; he kept rubbing his head reflexively.


    We tacitly looked at Senior Shu. The old man was also watching the cliff, mumbling something as if he were lost in thoughts. I pricked my ears up and noticed that he was counting.


    I wondered, <em>Is he counting the coffins?</em>


    Senior Shu then told me what he was doing. Im trying to locate my friends coffin. I kinda locked on it, so you two go there and check. Ill stay here and guide you using the mobile phone.


    I was startled. Arent youing with us?


    That was my n, but its easy to lose your bearings when youre up there. We cant find my friends coffin that way; its better if I stay here and help you find the right one.


    There was an old custom in our hometown: We should never step on dead people or their graves as it could provoke them.


    But Senior Shu had asked us to climb up the hanging coffin cliff, meaning that we would have to step on a thousand or so corpses. It would be a really big problem if we ended up offending so many evil spirits.


    Since the ce had such a gloomy and chilling atmosphere, I was sure there were countless spirits lingering around, trying to trouble anyone who dared toe close. If Li Mazi and I fell off this cliff, our gains would never make up for our losses.


    Li Mazi anxiously asked, Senior Shu, is there a second option where you go up there and we stay here and guide you?


    Senior Shu fumed and said, You have to get up there if you want to get the Perpetual Joy Coffin! If not, just forget it. I dont have time to y with you.


    Eventually, Li Mazi begrudgingly climbed up the mountain.


    There was a meandering stairway that twisted and turned like sheep intestines; its steep stone steps led to the top of the mountain. There were many ces with a steepness of almost forty-five degrees. If we were careless, we would fall and turn into a mess of flesh putty.


    There were big arching trees on both sides providing shade on the small trail; not many sunbeams could pierce through. From time to time, a strong gust of wind would blow down from the mountain, chilling us to the bone.


    We were exhausted and almost unable to breathe as we reached a cavity halfway. I suggested taking some rest, but Li Mazi left me there while he continued to grope on the rough trail.


    Li Mazi was giving his all for Chu Chus sake; he didnt even want to rest.


    I had no choice but to follow him with gritted teeth. Once we reached the peak, I felt my legs shake like two strands of boiled noodles.


    Li Mazi had also worn himself out. Directly going to the steep cliff to find the right coffin would be no different from suicide, so we decided to wait for a while to regain our strength. After that, we called Senior Shus number. We slowly got down the cliff with his indications.


    We kept inmunication throughout the descent. Shortly after, we locked onto a coffin. It looked new, and it was likely<em></em>the one belonging to Senior Shuste friend.


    We stepped on coffins and rocks as we made our way down. I regretted not preparing any safety gear. If we were just a bit careless, we could easily trip and fall... and little of our bodies would be left if that happened.


    It was hard to imagine how the Miao people hadbored to carry all the coffins to this location.


    It was lucky that we could get to that coffin in time as a skyward gust of wind reached us as soon as we stepped on the casket. I had to cling to it to avoid falling off.


    That wind had brought a pungent smell along, which made me feel a little dizzy.


    I started studying the coffin once the wind was gone. Two things were needed to fix the coffin to the cliff. First, they needed to stab tworge beams into the cliff, which would be the coffins support.


    Then they would use a rope to tie the coffin.


    In the past, the rope was made of several water buffalo tendons twisted together and smeared with tree oil. The buffalo tendon rope was flexible and strong enough that it wouldnt loosen even after a hundred years under any kind of weather. However, it would shrink as it dried up.


    In modern times, people began to use steel cables.


    All the weight of the coffin in front of us was ced on the steel cables. Senior Shu asked us to loosen the cables so that we could open the coffin!


    Usually, it would be very dangerous to open the coffin while in that perilous ce. The resentful soul could pester us if we werent careful.


    However, we couldnt retreat after reaching this point. We used the hammer and crowbar to take the nails off the coffin, then we lifted the lid.


    As soon as the coffin lid was opened, we felt quite disgusted by the moldy, decaying stench that pped our faces. Even before I was able to take a look, a shadow swiftly got out of the coffin; it wed its way up on the cliff and disappeared into a cave.


    I couldnt get a hold of myself, as I gawked at that cave in shock.


    What in tarnation had gotten out of the coffin? It waspletely sealed before; there was no chance for something to sneak in. Unless it was ced inside the coffin before it was closed.


    However, it was unlikely that the Miao people did it.


    After all, who would seal a corpse in a coffin alongside something living?


    Li Mazi asked while stuttering, D-Did you see what that thing was?


    Im not sure, a monkey perhaps? I said after hesitating for a short while.


    Li Mazi wasnt convinced. It looked like a kid. Moreover, I didn''t see any fur.


    Senior Shu was waiting for us below and scolded us through the phone, You guys shouldnt linger there! Check whats inside the coffin!


    I couldnt do anything else but look inside the coffin, and I gawked in shock immediately after.


    The coffin was packed with worms, snakes, ants, rats, and centipedes. The corpse seemed to be underneath them, although I could only see the white bones of an arm.


    It was appalling to see so many animals living harmoniously inside the coffin. All of them became flustered and crept around the corpse the moment we opened the lid.


    The corpse had no skin left as the animals had eaten everything up. The remaining parts were also soaked in dposing fluids, scattered all over the coffin.


    I was scared and my legs were turning into jelly. <em>Didnt this freaking corpse belong to a man who had just died a couple days ago? Why does it look like its been here for several dozens of years?</em>


    Senior Shu got us out of our shock. He shouted through the phone, What the heck is going on over there?


    I finally got a hold of myself and answered, Nothing good.


    Take some photos and close the lid. Get down here! Hurry up!


    I didnt want to stay there any longer, not even for a minute. I took several photos of the inside of the coffin. Then, we fixed the steel cables of the coffin before we descended the cliff.


    However, Senior Shu suddenly called us again on our way down, asking us not to cause a ruckus.


    I was puzzled. <em>Why should we cause a ruckus?</em>


    Senior Shu asked me to turn off the speakerphone mode. I did as he asked. Senior Shu then gingerly added, Now, look at Li Mazis shadow and check if you can see something there.


    I was puzzled by his request.


    I turned to look at Li Mazi, but he had nothing on his back.


    Senior Shu said immediately, I asked you to look at his shadow, not his back, you dimwit!


    I immediately turned to look at Li Mazis shadow, and my jaw almost fell.


    Sure enough, it appeared that Li Mazi had something on his back when I looked at his shadow. However, the thing was dimmer than his shadow, so I couldnt really tell what it was. It was really vague.


    I was perplexed. Senior Shu, I saw a vague shadow. Whats it?


    The Perpetual Joy Coffin has nurtured some sort of evil creature, Senior Shu answered, You shouldnt alert Li Mazi. Just do what I say.


    I immediately agreed.


    Go to the nearest coffin you can find and pull a nail out of it. Smear it with your blood and nail it on Li Mazis shadow on the ground, Senior Shu directed.


    Just like that? The shadow will be really nailed? I was surprised.


    It should, Senior Shu said with uncertainty.


    I didnt know if I shouldugh or smile. Please dont simply say it should, were talking about life or death here!


    Senior Shu said after thinking it through, All right, Iming there myself!


    Then, he hung up his phone.


    Although Senior Shu was old, he was very good at climbing mountains. He appeared in front of us in less than half an hour. I was stupefied as I looked at him.


    Senior Shu smiled and said, I came up through a shortcut. Then, he walked around Li Mazi, studying him from head to toe.


    I had asked Li Mazi to stay put, so he could also figure out that he had some problem. However, he didnt dare to ask what the problem was.


    Li Mazi grew restless, since Senior Shu was just looking without doing anything after a while. Senior Shu, whats happened to me?


    Senior Shu said, Just stay still and dont move. Run when I tell you and wait for us at the Miao vige. Remember, dont stop and dont answer if someone calls you on the way! More importantly, dont let the afterglow of the sunset shine on you, otherwise youre doomed. You got that?

 Chapter 189: Dont Let the Afterglow Shine on You

    Chapter 189: Don''t Let the Afterglow Shine on You


    Li Mazi nodded stiffly. His calves were shivering, and I wondered if he could even runter.


    Senior Shu wore a serious face as he walked toward the cliff. He took out two nails from a coffin and fiercely stabbed the figure that was clinging onto the back of Li Mazis shadow. Right when the nails pierced the ground, I saw the figure wiggle, seemingly in a lot of pain.


    Senior Shu didnt dare to do things halfway. He used his feet to pound on the two nails, then he shouted at Li Mazi, RUN!


    Li Mazi immediately dashed forward once he heard the signal. I also followed behind him.


    We ran all the way to the stairs. Ipletely ignored how tired I was and simply made my way down.


    The first half of the descent was fine. However, in the second half, things started to take a turn for the worse.


    At first, I heard rattling soundsing from the woods on both sides of the road as if someone were talking. But after a careful look, I didnt see anyone there.


    We began to see people as we went further down. We saw human shadows swaying, moving back and forth in the woods close to the hanging coffin cliff. However, we couldnt see their faces clearly.


    Some even greeted us. Are you here to burn some joss sticks?


    We didnt answer; we simply kept running down.


    The voice had followed us from the halfway up the mountain until we were about to leave the hanging coffin cliff.


    Later on, the voice disappeared. In the next moment, we saw a woman in white clothes right at the intersection where we would exit the hanging coffin cliff. She was sitting still, her back facing us.


    We both stopped tacitly.


    Li Mazi wanted to talk, but I immediately stopped him as Senior Shu had told us not to talk to anybody.


    I pointed to one side, signaling Li Mazi to simply walk around her!


    Li Mazi gave me a slight nod and followed me into the woods. More and more shadows approached us in the woods. Some looked like modern people, but there were ancient people as well. We even saw some holding weapons, gazing at us.


    I didnt care about them, I kept on heading down the mountain.


    Are you here to offer your life? The white-clothed woman suddenly asked.


    I took a deep breath. It seemed that this white-clothed woman wasnt good news.


    We didnt care about her and kept on dashing away.


    However, after walking for a while, we were halted by an incident.


    There was a bright ce in front of us, with radiant sun beams. We would be under the afterglow if we moved forward.


    <em>What to do?</em>I was quite restless and flustered.


    We couldnt move forward. Only God knew what would happen if we bathed in the afterglow of the sunset.


    There was only one way left in front of us, which was to brush past the woman in white sitting on the stairs.


    Although it was risky, it would be much better than breaching the taboos Senior Shu had told us about!


    We gathered all of our courage, walking to the stairs and descending.


    The woman in white opened her mouth again. Are you here to offer your life?


    We didnt bother to look at her. We brushed past her without look her in the eyes.


    However, as soon as we got past her, a pair of icy cold ws grabbed my ankles. I was scared and wanted to turn my head around to check.


    In the end, I forced myself to get rid of that thought. I had to avoid looking back at all costs. If I turned my head, the yang me on my shoulders might extinguish, which was even more dangerous.


    Do you know this woman? The white-clothed woman asked out of the blue.


    My heart throbbed. <em>What does she mean?</em>


    While I was still hesitant, Li Mazi screamed, Chu Chu, why are you here?!


    I was startled and quickly checked on him. He was ck jawed, staring at the white-clothed woman behind us.


    <em>Is Chu Chus here? No, thats impossible. Li Mazis must be under some illusion!</em>


    I grabbed him and tried to break free from the womans grip, but Li Mazi seemed to be rooted to the spot. I couldnt pull him away.


    I became anxious and pulled even harder, but to no avail.


    I was really flustered and restless as the afterglow became stronger and was about to cover the two of us. I didnt dare to turn around, either; I wondered if I should run away on my own.


    While I was hesitant, Li Mazi suddenly moved forward. I was shocked, seeing him suddenly hopping on the stairs. The white-clothed woman was also nowhere to be seen.


    Cold sweat streamed down my face as I knew Li Mazi had been possessed. I ran to grab him, since he was heading toward the afterglow.


    However, I couldnt stop him. In the end, I used the Sirius Whip out of desperation andshed twice at his back.


    Li Mazi screamed in pain, but his voice sounded like a womans. I tried to whip him one more time, but he was quick to sprint forward, jumping into the afterglow.


    The gold, radiant sunbeams shone on Li Mazis body. Then, he turned around to look at me,ughing maniacally.


    While I was helpless, Senior Shus angry voice came from behind me, You bold evil creature! Get lost! I looked back and saw Senior Shu already standing behind me. He was holding a familiar-looking blue talisman. It was one of the medium-level spirit talismans Chuyi had given him.


    Senior Shu threw the spirit talisman, which flew andnded on Li Mazis body!


    Li Mazi immediately shrieked and screeched, rolling on the ground in agony.


    Senior Shu screamed at me, Why are you standing there like an idiot?! Go grab him and bring him back!


    But the afterglow


    Its all right, Senior Shu said, Or else, we wont be able to save Li Mazis life.


    I gritted my teeth and immediately jumped into the afterglow. I lifted Li Mazi and carried him over my shoulder, then I ran toward the Miao vige.


    Li Mazi had wiggled a bit at first. However, he soon stopped struggling and remained motionless on my back; it seemed he had lost consciousness. I ran all the way back to the Miao vige, which left me panting. I put Li Mazi down and turned around to see Senior Shu behind us.


    He pped Li Mazi twice to wake him up. Li Mazi struggled and screamed, Chu Chu!


    Senior Shu didnt care about appearances and pped Li Mazi again. Not only you failed to do as I told you, but you even messed things up! You twerp, making me waste a medium-level talisman!


    Li Mazi was pped awake. He looked around in a daze, then he shouted, Holy crap, I just saw Chu Chu.


    Shut up! It was just an illusion, Senior Shu scoffed at him and said, Quick, follow me!


    Li Mazi still felt restless, but I paid him no more attention and just followed Senior Shu as he walked toward his old friends house.


    After we got inside and closed the door, I finally heaved a sigh of relief. Senior Shu, what on earth happened?

 Chapter 190: Corpse-Swallowing Insects

    Chapter 190: Corpse-Swallowing Insects


    Sigh! Senior Shu sighed, Im not sure, but what happened shouldnt be too different from my guess


    Senior Shu had seen Li Mazis figure wobble and getting covered by ayer of vague mist after we took some photos of the coffin and descended the cliff. Given his ample experience, Senior Shu soon recognized that something hadtched onto Li Mazi.


    That entity was possibly some evil creature that was born inside the Perpetual Joy Coffin. Since it had been incubated by such an artifact, it could devour souls with extreme ease. That was why Senior Shu asked me to use nails to block it.


    He then asked us to run away while he stayed behind to watch and suppress that thing, so that it wouldnt chase after us.


    The afterglow was the ce where Yin and Yang intertwined. If we walked in the afterglow, the Yang energy in our bodies could be easily reced by Yin energy, which would give wicked creatures more chances to possess us. That was why Senior Shu didnt want us to bathe in the afterglow.


    The white-clothed woman we met on our way down was a road-blocking ghost, which was a variable out of Senior Shus estimation. That was why he didnt warn us about her.


    The ce where the road-blocking ghost lingered was an area full of pure Yin energy; she eventually became an evil ghost because of it. Cmity would have struck if it werent for Chuyis talisman.


    My heart started to race as I listened to Senior Shus exnation; we had a near brush with death. Thinking about it made my scalp tingle After all, we had just barely touched the coffin of Senior Shus friend!


    What would have happened if we touched the real Perpetual Joy Coffin? Would we have died directly?


    At the same time, I recalled the corpse of Senior Shus friend. Senior Shu, that was a sealed coffin, how could so many snakes, worms, and even mice be in there?


    Senior Shu sighed. If he hadnt done that, Im afraid he would have turned into a Perpetual Joy Corpse, and the Perpetual Joy Coffin would have enved him forever!


    Perpetual Joy Corpse? Whats that? I had no clue.


    It is a sort of zombie. However, this kind of undead has a soul. The Perpetual Joy Coffin would not allow the soul to leave the body, and the person woulde back to life after some time. Only God knows what the Perpetual Joy Coffin would order him to do! Senior Shu exined.


    So, your friend deliberately allowed those insects to eat up his body? But couldn''t he have just asked someone to burn him? I didnt understand why the deceased needed to torture his remains like that.


    You dont understand. He did it to atone for his sins; it was the only way he could erase his own sins and karma. The Perpetual Joy Coffin couldnt do anything to him since he had erased his sins.


    Li Mazi pondered for quite a long time. Are you saying that the Perpetual Joy Coffin would only bring harm to whoevery inside instead of helping them rest?


    Senior Shu said, Isnt it clear already? The reason the Perpetual Joy Coffin could give perpetual joy to the deceased is that it would steal the karmic reward of others for itself. If no one touches the coffin, it wont be able to steal karmic rewards. Then, it would be no different from amon coffin.


    No wonder there are so many ghosts still wandering around the hanging coffin cliff. Their karma was stolen by the Perpetual Joy Coffin, thats why they cant reincarnate and have to linger around the hanging coffin cliff forever!


    Then, we all fell into silence.


    The Perpetual Joy Coffin, frankly speaking, was an item that worked for its own sake, rather than benefiting others. Even if we got the coffin, would Li Mazis conscience allow him to keep it? Would Chu Chu even use such an item? Would Senior Shu use it?


    Thats why we were struggling, reasoning whether to take it or leave it.


    Eventually, Li Mazi shook his head with reluctance and said, All right, Im giving up trying to get the coffin.


    Then, we looked at Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu kept silent for a while. Good deeds will be repaid with good karma while evil deeds with bad karma. I also dont dare to use that coffin. Maybe it can bring joy for a short time; but one day, all the karma the coffin has stolen would flow back like a downpour on the user. At that time, he or she would be sunk in damnation forever.


    We said everything that needed to be said, no need to twist matters around any more. Shall we go back? I dont want to stay here any longer.


    Li Mazi and Senior Shu didnt answer. I knew they were still unwilling, even though they had both said they didnt want the coffin.


    Senior Shuughed all of a sudden and said, We cant always think about ourselves and ignore the welfare of others. The Perpetual Joy Coffin is an otherworldly item that brings harm to people. Since we are otherworldly merchants, we have a responsibility and obligation to take it. We can also consider it as a means for our own atonement.


    Right, I agree with Senior Shu. Although we cant use this Perpetual Joy Coffin, its a rare and precious otherworldly item in any case. We could sell it for a good priceter!


    <em>Well, these two surely know how to back each other up...</em>


    I was speechless. Although the two spoke with a righteous tone, I could see their real nature They were unable to let the Perpetual Joy Coffin go.


    I could only agree to get the coffin.


    Someone able to use the Perpetual Joy Coffin can only be out of the ordinary. Since the coffin was hanging from that cliff, it is very likely that the user was a Miao. People in the Miao Area are good at using poisonous insects, so I think the coffin might be affected by one. We have to find an expert in this field to help us, Senior Shu told us.


    Senior Shu sounded confident, so I gathered he already had a suitable person in mind. Sure enough, Senior Shu eventually invited his friends oldest son. I didnt know what he did to persuade the young man, since the guy showed up patting his chest, saying that he would help us.


    His name was Jiang Jincheng, a native from the Miao territory. He had been dabbling with poisonous insects since he was a little boy. Apparently, there was no toxic insects he couldnt handle in this world.


    However, we first needed to tell which coffin was the Perpetual Joy Coffin among the hundreds hanging on the cliff.


    Senior Shu told us to rest first, since we would leave at around 5 AM in the morning. It seemed he had a n already.


    Then, he left with Jiang Jincheng, telling us that they needed to prepare the things we would be using early in the next day.


    Li Mazi and I were already exhausted and we longed for a ce to rest. We were fast asleep as soon as we got on our beds, sleeping through the night until morning came.


    I opened my eyes and saw the sky brightening when Senior Shu woke me up. Silver sunbeams came from the East, and the air was fresh. However, I could smell the scent of blood.


    Senior Shu called us to head over to where he was. Then, we saw several baskets in the yard, which contained something ck and sticky. I wasnt sure what it was, but it looked disgusting.


    Senior Shu had asked each of us to carry a basket. We would be heading toward the hanging coffin cliff together.


    I reluctantly picked up a basket. A strange stenchbined with the smell of blood immediately bashed my face. I couldnt even breathe.


    Senior Shu, what is this? I frowned.


    Senior Shu told me happily, Something filled with vibrant Yang energy. It can help us locate the Perpetual Joy Coffin.


    Are you sure its not just a pile of crap? asked Li Mazi.


    Its not somemon crap. Its abination of male deer poop and donkey poop, dressed with ayer of ck dog blood. These baskets are made of peach twigs, and all of them are stuffed with vibrant Yang energy. These things can expel the Yin energy of the Perpetual Joy Coffin. The real one will produce fumes when exposed to this preparation.


    Although it was an old fashioned method, I couldnt deny that it was indeed practical and convenient.

 Chapter 191: The Miao King

    Chapter 191: The Miao King


    When we reached the area under the hanging coffin cliff, we walked around with Jiang Jincheng to collect some dried twigs. We burned them and threw all the baskets into the fire.


    The baskets were immediately covered in high mes. Abination of urine, turd, and blood sizzled in the fire. A pungent smell spread alongside the smoke.


    The smoke was green and dispersed the thick fog, eventually filling the entire hanging coffin cliff.


    None of us blinked. We gazed at the cliff and focused on the center because Senior Shu said that the Perpetual Joy Coffin would likely stay in the center of the cliff.


    Not long afterward, a spot in the cliff started to release thick smoke. It looked like a coffin was burning and releasing ck smoke. Shortly after, the green smoke in the area subsided.


    Senior Shu called out, Go! Hurry up! Thats the Perpetual Joy Coffin!


    Then, he hurried with us to climb up the stairs.


    From the location of the ck smoke, the Perpetual Joy Coffin wasnt in the middle of the hanging coffin cliff. Instead, it was near the stairs.


    Senior Shu scoffed and said, Its close to attract more people. If more peoplee in contact with it, it can steal more karmic reward from them. Thats smart.


    We went all the way to the middle section of the nk and saw a coffin fuming with ck smoke. It was covered entirely in smoke, which hindered us from seeing the coffin itself.


    Senior Shu immediately took out a medium-level spirit talisman and gave it to Jiang Jincheng, askim him to lead the way.


    Jiang Jincheng didnt agree. Why do I have to go first? In case something dangerous happens, I will have to bear it all, right?


    Senior Shu sneered. This is a medium-level spirit talisman. It will protect you. And, as you can see, the master of the Perpetual Joy Coffin already knows about us. Im sure he has already started operating his toxic insects. Thats why you, as the expert, should go first. If you bump into any toxic insect, you will be able to deal with it.


    Jiang Jincheng finally agreed. He took out two ancient, tube-like fire starters and lit them up. After holding them in his hands, he started to climb the cliff.


    We thought we would encounter arge army of insects, but as we crawled near the Perpetual Joy Coffin, we didnt notice any movements. It looked like an ordinary coffin.


    The abnormal quietness made me more cautious!


    When we stood on the wooden beams that supported the Perpetual Joy Coffin, we restlessly watched Jiang Jincheng and Senior Shu open the lid of the coffin.


    As soon as the lid was lifted up, dark mist exuded from the coffin. I immediately pressed myself against the cliff and closed my eyes. I was worried that the dark mist was poisoned.


    When I opened my eyes again, my vision was much clearer because all the dark mist was gone. Senior Shu and Jiang Jincheng looked at the coffin in bewilderment.


    My curiosity urged me to move forward for a closer look.


    At first nce, I also gawked in awe.


    The corpse wore an official uniform as ity inside the coffin. An ancient bronze sword on his side sparkled under the sunlight. Also, the body was not rotten. It looked as though he was sleeping, and his stern facial features were enough to intimidate people.


    His chest, look at his chest! Li Mazi suddenly screamed.


    Our eyes immediately fell to his chest, and we all dropped our jaws in shock.


    His chest was heaving up and down as if he was breathing. <em>Shoot, is he still alive?</em>


    Jiang Jincheng suddenly got on his knees by the coffin and said gingerly, He is the Miao King!


    Miao King? I looked at Senior Shu with doubts in my mind. Whos this Miao King?


    In ancient times, the leader of the Miao Area was chosen by the Emperor of the Great Ming dynasty, who granted himnd and an official robe.


    Jiang Jincheng, dont be scared. He is dead already. You should kill his life-bound poisonous insect now, Senior Shu told him.


    Jiang Jincheng was still scared. No, he was once the Miao King, and Im a member of the Miao tribe. I cant kill him.


    "Okay. Senior Shu agreed, to my surprise. However, let me tell you that youre not being filial this way as youre allowing this guy to absorb your fathers karmic reward, making your father unable be able to reincarnate. In addition, the Miao King has no blood rtion with you, are you really willing to let him continue with his evil deeds?


    I... I Jiang Jincheng was bewildered. He hesitated.


    Hurry up, said Senior Shu. If we wait and his life-bound poisonous insectes out, well all die. I think you know this better than we do.


    Eventually, Jiang Jincheng gritted his teeth. Damn, this damn Miao King is really cruel and merciless. Today, I will eradicate this source of evil for our Miao people!


    Then, Jiang Jincheng squeezed the kings mouth open.


    The insides of the mouth were dried out and shriveled. Only the outside of his body looked fresh.


    Also, his chest was moving due to the life-bound poisonous insect hiding there. Since his life-bound poisonous insect was living in his chest, it made his chest move up and down.


    After he pried the Miao Kings mouth open, Jiang Jincheng immediately shoved the fire igniter inside, which caused his chest to heave stronger.


    However, it was strange that the smoke from the igniter all disappeared into the Miao Kings throat. Nothing came out.


    Senior Shu watched and eximed repeatedly, Its not easy to reach this level of heat control. Not bad, not bad.


    The igniter continued to burn until it receded around the Miao Kings lips. Then, it stopped burning and was taken out by Jiang Jincheng.


    As soon as the igniter was taken out, thick smoke started to fume from the kings mouth and nostrils.


    Jiang Jincheng became more anxious. He pinched both of his hands together and waited near the Miao Kings nose and mouth, ready to make his move at any time.


    Without waiting for me to understand the situation, I suddenly heard a buzzing sounding from the Miao Kings throat.


    Jiang Jincheng concentrated. I knew that the Miao Kings life-bound poisonous insect was about toe out and that Jiang Jincheng wanted to use his hands to grab it. I was looking forward to seeing his marvelous hand technique in action!


    While my mind wandered around, the Miao Kings mouth closed and Jiang Jincheng screamed, Shoot, not good! He wanted to retract his hands.


    However, it was toote. A ck insect as big as a fly flew out of the Miao Kings nose. It immediately bit Jiang Jinchengs hand.


    Jiang Jincheng shrieked and jerked his hand back. If it werent for Senior Shu having fast reflexes and catching him, he would have fallen down the high cliff.


    I nced at Jiang Jinchengs hand. It was just a small bite, and it had bled only a little bit.


    However, Jiang Jincheng continued to whine and scream in pain. He grabbed his wrist tightly with his other hand and said to Senior Shu, Senior Shu, please help me chop this hand off!


    <em>What?</em>


    Li Mazi and I were dumbstruck. We didnt know if Jiang Jincheng was kidding or if he was being serious!

 Chapter 192: The Perpetual Joy Coffin Doesnt Bring Perpetual Joy

    Chapter 192: The Perpetual Joy Coffin Doesn''t Bring Perpetual Joy


    I had yet to get a hold of myself when Senior Shu raised his arm and chopped down on Jiang Jinchengs hand with his de. The hand fell on the wooden beam, and blood spurted out like a small stream.


    Jiang Jincheng didnt mind his bleeding arm and grabbed the cut-off hand, throwing it into the coffin and shouting at Senior Shu, Burn the coffin!


    Senior Shu didnt hesitate and threw an igniter into the coffin. Afterward, he threw two bottles of gasoline.


    When the gasoline met the igniter, it exploded then burst into mes. Jiang Jincheng exhaled then leaned against the cliff.


    <em>Whats going on?</em>I exchanged looks with Li Mazi. Just a bite from some insect and he had chopped off his hand. That man was crazy!


    Why are you just standing there? Help him! Stop the bleeding! Senior Shu yelled at us. Li Mazi and I rushed to press on Jiang Jinchengs wound while Senior Shu used another igniter to burn the wound.


    One could imagine what kind of pain he had to bear as his wound burned. Jiang Jincheng had cold sweat all over his forehead, his face twisted in agony.


    However, he didnt make a sound. His bright eyes gazed at the burning coffin.


    I thought Jiang Jincheng was trying to distract himself and reduce the pain, so I asked him, Why did we have to burn the coffin? What if the other coffins on this cliff also caught fire?


    The life-bound poisonous insect had entered my palm. Unless it was destroyed with fire, the corpse in the coffin wont dpose. If the corpse doesnt rot, we can forget about getting the Perpetual Joy Coffin.


    It turned out he was keeping an eye on the life-bound poisonous insect. If the insect escaped, he would have to burn down all the coffins, so he couldnt afford to let it run away. The Miao Kings life-bound poisonous insect wasnt something ordinary people could handle.


    After hearing this, I became more serious and watched the burning coffin.


    Although we thought that the big fire would be able to burn the insect to death, four or five flies flew out from the coffin shortly after.


    I was scared. I thought that the insects wanted to attack us, so I immediately dodged.


    However, the insects ignored us and hid into the nearby coffins, disappearing from our sights.


    Thats bad. Jiang Jincheng scoffed and said, The poisonous insect reproduces too quickly. It seems well have to deal with all the coffins here. Take the Perpetual Joy Coffin and leave.


    Jiang Jincheng stood up, wrapped his wound, and ran.


    Li Mazi and I didnt hesitate. We stood up and followed him.


    Senior Shu pulled us back. You jerks, youre giving up the Perpetual Joy Coffin? It''s worth several million renminbi!


    If we dont run, we wont be able to keep our lives. How could we use the coffin then?! said Li Mazi.


    Senior Shu coaxed us and said, Listen to me. Just move the coffin down. Jiang Jinchang knows how to deal with the insects.


    After seeing Senior Shus expression, I knew that even if we wrestled this matter back and forth with him, we wouldnt be able to do anything. Reluctantly, we helped him carry the heavy coffin by holding onto each end. We moved it down the stairs.


    After struggling hard to carry the coffin down the cliff, we were exhausted, with our limbs numb and paralyzed. Still, it was fortunate that we had to descend the stairs. If we had to go up, I was afraid that we would have died from exhaustion.


    As soon as we got down, Jiang Jinchang gathered all the dried branches and twigs that were mmable and threw them at the foot of the hanging coffin cliff. Then, he burned them with some gasoline.


    The gasoline burned heavily. Since the gaps between the coffins were small,yers of coffins were burned one after another.


    Most of the coffins were hundreds of years old. They were all dried up so they burned quickly. The fire dyed half the sky red.


    I was worried that the fire could burn the entire woods. However, Senior Shu said that both sides of the hanging coffin cliff had heavy Yin energy, strong enough that not even the fire couldnt burn through it.


    I heaved a sigh of relief.


    However, since we had burned the hanging coffin cliff, the Miao people wouldnt let us go. They would capture Jiang Jincheng as well, and possibly kill him.


    Jiang Jincheng sighed. I will move somewhere else. My father is gone, and I dont have anything to hold me back here.


    We put the Perpetual Joy Coffin on the car then left.


    I suggested throwing the Miao Kings corpse away. However, Senior Shu stopped me. The Miao Kings corpse is also a relic, and it would be a waste to throw it away. Also, we need to keep an eye on his corpse. If his corpse has some abnormal changes, we have to be careful while bringing the Perpetual Joy Coffin back.


    Senior Shu and I stayed at the back of the pickup truck to watch the coffin. Li Mazi drove while Jiang Jincheng nursed his wound, his face pale.


    I was puzzled. What could even happen to the Miao Kings corpse? Could he be a walking corpse?


    Shortly after, the Miao Kings corpse began to change.


    At a speed visible to the naked eye, his corpse withered away.


    The body eventually became a dried corpse. The fresh and glowing skin was gone, and it looked like I could create a hole in the body just with the touch of my finger.


    Senior Shu sighed. He used to be the great Miao King, and even if he got his hands on the Perpetual Joy Coffin, he finally became a dry corpse. He would be thrown in the wild, and wolves wille to eat his remains.


    Then, Senior Shu grabbed the Miao Kings legs. He lifted him up and threw him into a ditch by the road.


    I was startled. <em>Didnt Senior Shu just say that the Miao Kings body was also a relic?</em>


    Senior Shu exined, The corpse was a relic only if it was in good condition as it could prove the power of the Perpetual Joy Coffin. But since his life-bound poisonous insect was killed, those hundreds of wandering souls were able to ascend, and the karmic reward he had taken from them also vanished. This only proves that the Perpetual Joy Coffin has side effects. Since it affects the value of the coffin, we would rather throw it away.


    I was speechless.


    Senior Shu then told me, Although the Miao King wasnt the one to invent the poisonous insect technique, he was the one to spread it and make it thrive. However, this didnt give him a good reputation as he was brutal and cruel. He had captured countless Miao people to feed the insects. The number of people who had died in his hands was more than the number of casualties on the battlefield.


    Senior Shu gave Jiang Jincheng a huge amount of money, which he used to move to another ce. After we returned to the city, the news of the Perpetual Joy Coffin spread in the entire circle.


    Every day, Senior Shu checked in the circle to find a chance to sell it. In the end, he found a suitable buyer.


    A rich mans mother had just passed away in Beijing. To show his filial piety, he was willing to spend ten million renminbi to buy the Perpetual Joy Coffin for his mother.


    The moment I praised this rich mans filial piety, Senior Shu snorted. Filial piety my ass! When his mother was still alive, she lived in the countryside. Every month, he sent her arge sum of money but he rarely went home to visit her. What can an old mother do with a lot of money? Her biggest wish was to have a reunion dinner with her family. People nowadays dont take care of their parents, and when their parents die, they cry to show their filial piety. Its just a show for other people to see.


    I remained quiet.


    The Perpetual Joy Coffin did not bring perpetual joy. It prevented natural disasters but not supernatural ones. So what if it could steal other peoples karmic reward? Eventually, the user would be punished for it and would have to pay the price.


    If you took something that didnt belong to you, you would have to pay it back in full plus the interest!

 Chapter 193: The Midnight Zither Sound

    Chapter 193: The Midnight Zither Sound


    Time passed by, and Chu Chu couldnt hold it any longer. At this point, we didnt hold out much hope to find the Night Dragon Bait.


    Li Mazis only wish was to apany her during thest moments of her life.


    However, things were unpredictable sometimes. The moment we had given up on the Night Dragon Bait, unexpected news arrived!


    That day, Chuyi called me and asked about Chu Chus situation. I was a bit sad and told him about her situation.


    Chuyi pondered for a while then asked, Is Li Mazi still looking for the Night Dragon Bait?


    Was there even a need to ask? If we had a clue then, of course, Li Mazi would try to find it!


    I became excited. Chuyi, do you have a clue?


    Chuyi nodded. Yeah, I do. However, even if we obtain the Night Dragon Bait to help Chu Chu ovee this fatal danger, it would go against the will of the heavens. It will greatly affect Li Mazis karmic reward. Perhaps it will reduce his longevity.


    Li Mazi was already obsessed with the Night Dragon Bait. Even if he had to give all of his remaining years to Chu Chu, he wouldnt bat an eye. He immediately asked Chuyi the details about the Night Dragon Bait.


    Chuyi contemted for a while. In the end, he gave us an address and asked us to go to that address to see a man who had a zither. This zither had the Night Dragon Baits aura, which meant the previous owner of the jade zither used to have the Night Dragon Bait.


    If we used the jade zither to track to the previous owners grave, perhaps we could find the Night Dragon Bait.


    Li Mazi was excited. Well get going now. Then, he went to bid Chu Chu farewell.


    Chu Chu was teary and looked at Li Mazi. She asked him only one question. For me, is it worth it?


    Li Mazi smiled and rubbed Chu Chus nose. Of course its worth it. Youve made me a real man. Youve made me learn how to shoulder responsibility. Thats why I need to shoulder the happiness of thetter half of your life.


    Li Mazi nted a kiss on Chu Chus forehead then left.


    It was a house in the Shunyi District of Beijing, the so-called City of Movies.


    Chuyi told us that at first, the jade zither was just a prop kept in a prop masters house. However, before the movie started filming, strange events happened in his house. The prop master then found an otherworldly merchant to deal with this jade zither.


    The otherworldly merchant then sensed the Night Dragon Baits aura on the jade zither. Coincidently, he had just gotten a favor from Chuyi and happened to know that he was looking for this thing. That was why he notified his benefactor.


    Chuyi had the otherworldly merchant give up on the task, transferring the case to us.


    Although it was located on the Sixth Ring Road of Beijing, the City of Movies was really bustling and lively. It was filled with many high-rise buildings and vis.


    It was lunchtime. In this city that imed more than one thousand acres ofnd, many walk-on actors and actresses, and even the main actors and actresses, lined up to receive their food. There were ancient generals, modern bandits, and any kind of characters one could imagine in the line. There was also a lot of high-technology equipment. If I wasnt aware of where I was, I would have thought I had time-traveled.


    We had nned to meet the client at the gate of the city.


    Soon, a big, fat man rushed toward us. Hed only run several steps, and he was sweating already. After he knew our identities, he repeatedly apologized and said that he was very busy. Can you eat lunch and wait for me at the inn? I have so much work to do in the afternoon.


    Li Mazi was enraged. What is more important, your life or your work? Decide quickly!


    I knew Li Mazi wanted to seize each second to find the location of the Night Dragon Bait.


    The prop master gave an embarrassed smile. He didnt dare to offend us and asked for a day off at his studio. Then, he brought us to his house. We were surprised to see that he was living in a luxurious vi.


    Er, this vi isnt mine. It belongs to a great director. He doesnt live here so he let me rent the ce to keep the props, the prop master exined to us.


    He began to tell us the story. One day, after he stored one of the props there, strange things started to happen at night time!


    The crew had been filming a feudal drama recently, and they needed to rent a lot of ancient tools and props. One of the said props was a jade zither.


    When the jade zither was first acquired, Old Cai, the prop master, had sensed something wrong. It was because most of the props used in feudal movies and dramas were roughly built. They could tell that they were just props. Quite the contrary, the jade zither had an ancient aura that gave people the vicissitude of old times. At first nce, they knew it was an antique.


    However, because he had so many things to do, he didnt have time to care about this trivial thing. He put the zither together with the other props in the living room.


    Night came, and he was exhausted. He directly went to his bedroom on the second floor.


    However, while sleeping, he heard someone ying the zither. The sound was low and somewhat hoarse, which gave the listeners a sad feeling. He was inadvertently mesmerized by this sound.


    The sound amplified his negative moods, making him very sad. He couldnt help but cry as he felt that his life was gloomy, without a beam of light. He had even thoughts about killing himself.


    At the break of dawn, the zither finally stopped, and Old Cai was shivering in fear.


    Some unknown zither had been ying for the whole night in his house. He didnt found the music suspicious and was instead mesmerized by it.


    After returning to his senses, he went downstairs to check. What he saw shocked him greatly.


    Some animalsy dead near the zither. There were mice, cockroaches, and even snakes.


    The zither was relocated as well.


    At first, it was ced in therge pile of props. Now, it was ced neatly on the table. On the table was also a hedgehog, whose eyes were dreamy. It seemed it had been mesmerized by the zither sound.


    Old Cai was scared out of his wits, but he didnt think much about the situation. He just thought that someone had broken into his vi. He hurried to clean the dead snakes and mice.


    But in the next moment, the animals suddenly jerked up and ran away disorderly.


    The little animals hadnt died yet. They were just so infatuated with the sound that theyd lost control of their bodies. Furthermore, all of the doors and windows were closed. He checked the surveince cameras and saw that no one suspicious had entered the vist night. Old Cai confirmed that the problemy with the ancient zither and decided to return the item. However, when he called the proppany, the people there told him that the zither wasnt theirs. They also said that the list of required items he had sent them didnt include a zither. Old Cai immediately checked his list of props. Sure enough, there was no zither on the list. So, who had put this zither here?


    Old Cai was stunned and understood that someone had wanted to harm him. He immediately contacted an otherworldly merchant, and after several twists and turns, he came to us. For how long has this strange phenomenon going on? I asked.

 Chapter 194: The Eye Outside

    Chapter 194: The Eye Outside


    Old Cai said, The props arrived yesterday, and strange things started happening during the night.


    Li Maziforted him, Youre lucky that you have us. Otherwise, you wouldnt even know how you died.


    Old Cai felt relieved. How are you going to handle the zither?


    We dont have a solution yet. Tonight, we will stay here and see whats the deal with the zither.


    Old Cai looked hesitant and grimaced. Can I sleep somewhere else tonight? Im afraid I wont be able to resist the zither sound. What if I kill myself?


    I understood that Old Cai doubted our skills since we looked young.


    Li Mazi said before I could talk, Okay, you can sleep outside tonight. We can solve it by ourselves. Right, dont you have to go to work? You should go now! We will stay behind to study this ancient zither.


    Old Cai was hesitant and looked at us with doubt. I guessed he was worried that we would mess things up. After all, the props he kept in this vi cost a lot.


    Li Mazi was also aware of what Old Cai was thinking. He smiled then said, Dont overthink. Its just that there are some secret methods that belong to otherworldly merchants, and we dont want others to see them. If you want to stay, you should stay upstairs.


    In the end, Old Cai answered in a low voice. Ill stay upstairs. I have asked for a day off, so I cant just go back to the studio


    After he went upstairs, Li Mazi asked me, Can we track the Night Dragon Bait from this ancient zither?


    I carefully examined the zither and found some dabs of wet mud underneath the instrument. This item must have been dug up from an ancient tomb.


    Usually, things that were taken from tombs would be influenced by the tombs owner. In some cases, the owners soul would even dwelled in it.


    We suspected that the zither had its owners soul inside. The soul would probablye outte at night and y the zither.


    If we could summon the soul that lived inside the zither and ask it about the Night Dragon Bait, that would be ideal.


    I told Li Mazi about my idea.


    Li Mazi was a little worried. Would the zithers owner even tell us about the Night Dragon Baits location? Also, if this jade zither was stolen from the tomb, doesnt that mean that the Night Dragon Bait was stolen as well?


    Li Mazi was right to be concerned.


    However, I didnt have any other n. We could only try this.


    Li Mazi finally agreed to go along with my advice.


    We immediately went to the ck market and bought things that we could use at night.


    We bought ck dog blood, shrouds, peach wood stakes, and some broken y pots.


    We bought the shrouds from a funeral house. They said the older the shrouds were, the better the effect. However, as we were in a hurry, we didnt have the time to look for an old one and just bought a quilt that had been wrapped around a person that had died of a traffic ident two days ago.


    Also, we asked Old Cai to bring us two small bottles of ox tears from a farm nearby.


    After everything was prepared, we piled up the materials on the second floor and sat in a room that allowed us to see the zither.


    We had a simple dinner then watched some boring TV programs. In order to not let the zither sound bewitch us, I applied ox tears to our eyes and ears.


    They would keep our eyesight and hearing sharp so that we would not be infatuated with the sound like Old Cai was.


    I was worried that the zither sound could push us tomit suicide.


    Time flew quickly. After watching several episodes of an American series, it was almost dawn.


    I got up and walked to the peephole to check the zither outside, but I gawked in shock the next moment.


    An opaque eye was glued to the peephole, staring at us.


    I shivered in fright. <em>Damn, whose eye is that? How long has that person been standing out there?</em>


    Seeing me frightened, Li Mazi sensed that something was wrong. He hurried over and looked through the peephole.


    After a quick nce, he opened the door, which gave me a scare.


    <em>You fool, why would you open the door?! If you alert the person behind the door, that would be very unfavorable to us!</em>


    However, after he opened the door, I saw Old Cai stand absentmindedly at the entrance. He grinned at us and was drooling.


    Li Mazi didnt notice that Old Cai was no longer himself. He fumed. Its alreadyte at night! Why are you standing there? Are you trying to scare us?


    However, Old Cai didnt mind us. He just stood and smiled absentmindedly. He used his body to block the entrance.


    I was anxious and rushed to the tea table, taking out the ck dog blood. If Old Cai acted strangely, I would ssh the ck dog blood onto him.


    Li Mazi also noticed that Old Cai was blocking the entrance to the room. He stepped forward and reached his hand to push him aside.


    Li Mazi, dont act rashly. He is doing that for a reason! I cried.


    Something evil was haunting that zither. And now, that thing had started to control Old Cai.


    Li Mazi retreated and nervously asked, Who the hell are you? Do you have the Night Dragon Bait?


    Li Mazi was very impatient, and he immediately asked about the Night Dragon Bait.


    Old Cai ignored Li Mazi. After he pushed the doorpletely open, he stiffly walked down to the first floor.


    Li Mazi and I immediately followed him, carrying along the stuff we bought in the morning.


    It seemed what we had prepared wouldnt be of use today. We had wanted to use those items to force the soul out of the zither, but the soul had shown up on its own.


    Moreover, after looking at his actions, it didnt seem he want to harm us. Anyway, it was better to be prepared. In case he was nning something, we could use these items to resist him.


    We didnt expect that Old Cai would go to the toilet to wash his hands then burn an incense stick. Eventually, he sat in front of the zither. After admiring it, he sighed and closed his eyes, cing both of his hands on the zither. He started to y.


    What should we do now? Li Mazi hurried to ask. Should we stop him?


    I hesitated for a while then shook my head. He didnt seem dangerous, and it didnt seem like he wanted to harm us. He had to be doing this for some reason. We should just wait and see what he wanted to do.


    I didnt really know much about music. However, I still recognized he was ying an ancient piece.


    Since Old Cai had to move props around all day, his hands were very rough. To y the zither, ones fingers had to be nimble and flexible. Yet, Old Cais callus-covered fingers were able to y a beautiful melody. I estimated that the zithers owner must have been a real master in this field when he was alive!


    What he was ying was a very famous work from ancient times called High Mountain - Running Water. The ancient music and sound from the instrument werepletely different from an audio tape. Sometimes, it surged high and other times, it felt like elegant drizzle. Even Li Mazi, a crude man, was attracted to this wonderful music. He looked as if he was infatuated with it.


    While sinking in the sound, I could envision the beautiful sights brought to me by the melody.


    I saw a slow running stream. It was small and meandered around the mountain. An old, white-haired man sat on a rock inside the stream. Both of his hands skillfully and swiftly moved the strings, and the ancient sounds the zither issued flowed alongside the stream.


    It seemed as if the small stream was controlled by the old man. When the sound pitched up, the stream had high waves that soared.


    When the zither sounded tender and elegant, the stream stayed calm and mild, with the waters flowing slowly.


    Small shrimps and fish yed inside the stream. They enjoyed the wonderful melody and were eventually conquered by it. They quietly gathered around and listened to the touching sound


    Under the beautiful melody, a wonderful scene was created. The birds twittered and the sweet smell of flowers blossomed. Li Mazi and I hadpletely forgotten the reason why we were there.


    All of a sudden, there was a buzzing sound; one of the strings broke. The scenery in front of me changed. The running stream disappeared, while dried vines, dead trees, and ck crows appeared. This scene gave people a feeling of endless sadness.


    Old Cai looked at the zither in surprise. He looked aggrieved, and tears streamed down his face.


    He turned to us and said, Without a soul mate, what is the point of keeping this jade zither?


    Then, he raised the zither high and smashed it against his own knee.


    The zither hit his knee and broke in half.


    The moment the zither was broken, Old Cai screamed and slumped to the ground.

 Chapter 195: The Pair of Otherworldly Items

    Chapter 195: The Pair of Otherworldly Items


    After getting pulled out of that beautiful dream, Li Mazi and I were still stunned. Old Cais sudden change left us frightened.


    I walked forward to pull him up. Since Old Cai was unconscious, I put him on my back and brought him upstairs. At the same time, I asked Li Mazi to stay and watch the zither.


    Since the resentful soul inside the zither was now angry, I was worried that it would do something bad. Thats why I had asked Li Mazi to watch it.


    I carried Old Cai upstairs and sshed some cold water on his face, which woke him up.


    However, he was still very emotional. He cried a lot.


    Old Cai, are you all right? I asked him.


    Sigh! Whats good about my life? People order me around like a dog every day. The director even insulted me! Ive been living with grievance!


    It seemed that Old Cais negative emotions had been amplified by the sound of the zither.


    The reason was that his worldview was different than mine.


    From Old Cais viewpoint, the entire world had let him down, wronging him. That was why he was so lost in his grievance after getting mesmerized by the sound.


    Since I was positive toward life, I saw that beautiful scene instead.


    I was worried that Old Cai would kill himself so I decided to stay in the vi and watch him for the rest of the night.


    After Old Cai broke that zither, things were quiet. Nothing strange urred during the night.


    At the break of dawn, Li Mazi was exhausted as he walked to me. With a serious face, he asked, Why did the soul living inside the otherworldly item want to break the zither? Wasnt that the same as destroying its own home?


    I sighed and indicated that I couldnt understand its behavior, either.


    I went downstairs to collect the zither. It was broken in the middle and most of the strings were likewise broken. I pinched a string that was still intact, but the sound it made was low and really unpleasant to the ears.


    I guessed it was the spirit of the zither that had created the beautiful sound we heardst night.


    Li Mazi asked me, Will we be able to summon the resentful soul in this zither tonight? If we cant, how do we get the Night Dragon Bait?


    In theory, since the zither was now badly damaged, the soul living inside would be hurt, too. I wondered if it could get out.


    While I had a headache thinking about how to deal with this situation, Chuyi called. He was truly a life-saver.


    I know where the Night Dragon Bait is, he said.


    <em>What?!</em>Li Mazi and I were so excited. Where is it? Where is it?


    He didnt tell us directly but asked, How is it going with the zither?


    I immediately told him the details of the events that happenedst night. Then, I added, The urgent thing to do now is to find the Night Dragon Bait! Regarding this zither, I will bring it along with us so we can deal with it!


    Chuyi said, Bring it with you. There shouldnt be any danger along the way.


    Since Chuyi confirmed that the zither wouldnt have any problems, Li Mazi and I were relieved. I immediately wrapped it up and drove to the ce Chuyi told me.


    We were going to Wuhan. Since we were in a hurry, we wanted to take a flight. But after considering things carefully, we decided to drive our car.


    We didnt know if we could check the zither on the ne. If the zither suddenly affected the other passengers midair, including the pilots, that would be terrible. The entire ne could possibly crash!


    Li Mazi and I didnt stop to rest as we took turns driving the car. However, we couldnt rest well as we had to keep an eye on the zither as well.


    Luckily, the zither didnt cause problems during the drive.


    When we reached Wuhan, we hired a taxi and headed to Yuba Vige to find Chuyi.


    Chuyi brought us to a house. The ce felt very cold, and a rough-looking man was living there.


    Li Mazi didnt beat around the bush and asked directly, Wheres the Night Dragon Bait?


    Chuyi blinked and signaled at us not to talk. I knew it wasnt easy to get the Night Dragon Bait. I nudged Li Mazi to make him shut his mouth. We had to find a chance to talk to Chuyi in private.


    Chuyi wrote a note to the man and asked him to prepare some items we could use tonight.


    The sound that came out from the rough-looking mans throat was really hoarse and hard to recognize. Okay.


    At this moment, I finally had a good look at him.


    He had gray hair and looked unkempt. He wore shabby clothes and had a horrible smell. I wondered how long it was since he had hisst bath.


    After he had left, Li Mazi couldnt wait to ask Chuyi, Wheres the Night Dragon Bait?


    Chuyi didnt answer directly but asked us to show him the zither.


    I did as he asked. I took the zither and unwrapped it. Chuyi took an ax that was hung on the wall of the house. He ced it next to the zither and took a step back and admired the two items. Did you know there are some otherworldly items that were born to be paired with each other? If they are together, they will protect the people. However, if they are separated, they will be evil items and start to harm people.


    I seemed to understand what Chuyi was talking about. He was saying that this zither and this ax were a pair.


    For me, when I started my career, I had bumped into that pair of embroidered shoes. The shoes were one pair. There was one left shoe and one right shoe, and neither of them could be missing.


    However, what was the rtionship between the zither and the ax? One was something great schrs admired, an elegant musical instrument, while the other was a tool of low-ss, manualbor


    I asked Chuyi, Whats their story?


    Chuyi asked us to sit down. He observed the zither and gently pinched the strings. The zither made a clear sound.


    The story of Yu Boya and Zhong Ziqi, have you ever heard of it? asked Chuyi.


    When Chuyi mentioned the two names, I was enlightened. How did I not think about it earlier?


    Boya had broken his zither to honor his soul mate. It was a famous story in Chinese history!


    The word soul mate became famous ever since!


    Back then, Boyas zither-ying skills were superb. It amazed the whole nation. His music was like the water that flowed in the high mountain, or wind that blew through the meadow. Each note of his soothed peoples minds. Many praised his skills.


    However, he wasnt happy because he felt that no one really understood his music.


    One day, he went to a small stream inside a mountain and got in the mood to perform High Mountain - Running Water. Soon after, he saw a woodman who was listening to him. The man was enthralled by his music.


    After seeing Boya spot him, the woodman was embarrassed. Sir, your skills are marvelous. I couldnt help but be mesmerized by the sound, sorry.


    Boya despised the woodman inwardly and wondered how a peddler like him could understand his music.


    Zhong Ziqi decided to describe Boyas music as a picture. He described it like a surging river and also a slow stream, as high as a mountain and also as low as a hole in the ground.


    Boya was startled by this, and the two started to chat. They became friends from that day on and called each other brother. They also promised each other that they would meet again on the day of next years full moon!


    On the day of the Middle-Autumn Festival, Boya went back to the mountain, looking forward to meeting Zhong Ziqi again.


    However, heter learned that Zhong Ziqi had died due to severe sickness. His body was buried near the stream where they had first met, as he wished to hear Boyas beautiful music once again the next year even though he was dead.


    Boyas heart was in great pain. He yed a piece of music in front of Zhong Ziqis grave. It was a low and depressing melody that made peoples hearts ache. All those who heard the music were heartbroken.


    After he finished his performance, Boya felt great regret as his friend wasnt there anymore to appreciate his music. He broke his zither. Without Zhong Ziqi, who am I even ying for?


    From that day on, Boya didnt y the musical instrument anymore.


    He was heartbroken that his friend was gone, so he buried his zither in Zhong Ziqis grave and promised that he would have his body buried beside him so that he could reunite with his friend in the afterlife and drink wine with him.


    At the time, Boya was the High Officer of the State of Jin and had the Night Dragon Bait that was bestowed to him by Emperor Jin. Since he knew that the Night Dragon Bait could connect Yin and Yang, he had it buried into Zhong Ziqis grave in hopes that his friend could wait for him and head to the afterworld together.


    It was thest time the Night Dragon Bait appeared in history. Chuyi happened to know this from the information he identally got from an old senior.

 Chapter 196: Night Dragon Bait

    Chapter 196: Night Dragon Bait


    Li Mazi didnt care about this old story as he was too attracted by the Night Dragon Bait. He couldnt wait to go and dug up Zhong Ziqis tomb to get it.


    I was really worried, though. <em>The ax and the zither should be buried in the two tombs, right? Why are they here on this table? Were the tombs dug up? In that case, the Night Dragon Bait...</em>


    Chuyi sighed. We can only rely on our luck. I hope no one else has gotten wind of the Night Dragon Bait. Since it was put in the throat of the deceased to seal hisst breath, I dont think it has been stolen yet.


    After listening to him, my hopes of obtaining it grew bigger!


    Later on, I discovered that Chuyi already knew that the ancient zither and the ancient ax were a pair of otherworldly items. That was why he let Li Mazi and I deal with the zither while he went to find the ancient ax.


    This ancient ax had created a lot of paranormal activities, too. As long as we buried both the ax and the zither together tonight, we could dissolve the anger of the two otherworldly items.


    I nodded. Since we have found both items, it should be easy to settle their anger.<em></em>


    When night fell, Li Mazi, Chuyi, and I stayed in the living room. As for the rough-looking man, he slept in his room.


    He was reserved, so we didnt talk much.


    There was a full moon that night. The pale moonlight shone over the world while the wind swayed the des of grass, which made them surge like ripples of water. We waited silently for the ancient ax and the zither to reveal the spirits dwelling inside them.


    As the clock ticked by, we suddenly heard amotion outside. It seemed someone was walking toward our wooden lodge.


    The footsteps stopped at the door. Then, we heard a gentle knock. The moonlight shone on that figure, but it was too vague to see who it was.


    I was anxious. <em>Its sote. Who is it?</em>


    I looked at Chuyi. He gave me a nod and motioned at me to open the door.


    When the door opened and I saw the man standing outside, I dropped my jaw in shock. It was the owner of the zither, Old Cai, the prop master.


    Old Cai was standing on his tiptoes and wore a smile on his pale face. His eyes looked upward, and he looked like the ghost of a hanged person.


    I immediately backed off and looked at him in bewilderment. Why are you here?


    Old Cai didnt talk. Instead, his dull eyes fell on the zither. Then, still tiptoed, he walked toward it, sighing andmenting.


    While I was thinking about how to deal with him, the bedrooms door sprang open. The rough-looking man walked out in the same manner as Old Cai. They exchanged looks, and the grins on their faces disappeared while tears lingered in their eyes.


    Chuyi immediately signaled me to step aside and to not disturb them.


    I nodded and hurried to step aside.


    Old Cai looked at the broken zither and gave a slight sigh. The other man patted his shoulder tofort him.


    The two stood face-to-face, motionless, and on their tiptoes. It was a really scary scene.


    Its easy to earn a thousand gold but its really hard to find a soul mate.


    All of a sudden, Chuyi stood up. You two have reunited after a really, really long time. How about I pour you both a bottle of good wine so that you can cheer up and share your joys?


    The two didnt react.


    Chuyi didnt say anything. He just walked forward and picked up the zither and the ax. Then, he headed to the door.


    Old Cai and the rough-looking man were surprised. They looked at Chuyi in bewilderment as their eyes shed with cold light.


    Old Cai reacted first. He moved stiffly and grabbed Chuyis shoulder. A rough voice came from his throat. Drop the items!


    Chuyi said reluctantly, You had promised to see each other at the high mountain where the stream runs on August 15th. This ce isnt suitable to y music. Im afraid it will pollute your beautiful work of art. I suggest finding a quiet ce for you to cheer up and share your joys. How does that sound?


    The rough-looking man walked forward and patted Old Cais shoulder. Old Cai hesitated for a while but in the end, he let go of Chuyi.


    Chuyi immediately took the two to the mountain.


    I threw a nce at Li Mazi. Li Mazi nodded and we followed them.


    We ran all the way to the peak of the mountain where we saw a stream. It was a high ce with rocks and a Greeting Pine Tree. Under the gentle moonlight, this ce looked like a distant wondend.


    Chuyi immediately used some fine salt to draw a circle on the ground. The circle surrounded the rough-looking man and Old Cai. Afterward, he took out a bottle of wine and poured it into the tumblers. He ced them outside the ring and stirred them with a willow twig. Then, out of the blue, he started to read an ancient poem.


    One pot of wine among the flowers,


    Alone, I drink alone with no one whom I care for.


    I raised my cup to the brilliant moon,


    With thee, my shadow and I, three drinkingpanions.


    s, you understand not of drinking ways,


    And my shadow can only follow me.


    Still thy presence and shadow, I dost request,


    To enjoy this night of spring.


    Dithering here and there, I sing to thee,


    As my shadow dances haphazardly.


    Awakened from my stupor, more pleasures I pursue.


    Only in drunkenness do we part and say goodbye.


    Eternal friendship but fated not to be enjoyed together.


    Perhaps, amongst the remote clouds we shall meet.


    Chuyis voice was really maic. Since he was wearing white clothes and lifting his head to watch the moon, his fringe covered his forehead. At this moment, he looked really artistic and attractive.


    The rough-looking man and Old Cai seemed to enjoy this ancient poem a lot. They smiled and stepped toward the tumblers of wine.


    However, after they had got out of the circle, they suddenly slumped on the ground. I seemed to see two shadows leave their bodies at the veryst moment.


    Chuyi gave us a nod and motioned at the rough-looking man and Old Cai. He wanted us to take them away.


    We didnt say anything but ran forward. We carried the two unconscious men.


    I turned around and looked at Chuyi. He didnt seem to want to leave. He stood there and signaled at us with his eyes to leave first.


    Reluctantly, we carried the two men and descended the mountain. Li Mazi and I were exhausted, and as we turned around, we saw that Chuyi didnt descend the mountain with us.


    I was a little worried and wanted to climb up to check on him.


    However, Li Mazi stopped me. Even if you go up there, you will only trouble him. I can tell that the two souls are not evil. I dont think they will fight Chuyi!


    We didnt have a choice, so we could only hope that Chuyi would take care of himself.


    When the rough-looking man and Old Cai slowly woke up, they didnt know why they went to the foot of the mountain. They werepletely baffled.


    Old Cai thought that he was still in Beijing!


    Li Mazi and I had to exin the situation to them. We told them the story of Boya and Zhong Ziqi.


    After listening to me, they quieted down.


    Eventually, Old Cai said, In the past, my family name was Yu. Does this mean that Yu Boya was my ancestor?


    The other man sighed and said, My family name is Zhong.


    I understood now. No wonder the two otherworldly items appeared so far from each other. It turned out they had recognized their masters.


    Although they werent the real Boya and Zhong Ziqi, the otherworldly items recognized their bloodlines. Since they were Boya and Zhong Ziqis descendants, the two items had created chances to gradually enter their lives and return to their hands.


    We waited at the foot of the mountain until dawn. Finally, we saw Chuyi descend the mountain.


    He looked mentally exhausted with dark circles under his eyes. As he descended the mountain, he trembled a lot.


    After seeing Chuyi, I immediately ran toward him. Did you handle the matter?


    He didnt reply and took out a bead from his pocket.


    It was a pure white bead around the size of an infants fist. Under the early morning sunlight, I could see a streak of blood inside the bead.


    Li Mazi screamed in delight. The Night Dragon Bait! This is the Night Dragon Bait, right?

 Chapter 197: Watching the Meteor Shower with You

    Chapter 197: Watching the Meteor Shower with You


    Chuyi nodded and said with a smile, You should hurry back.


    We nodded and took the Night Dragon Bait, starting our car.


    Chuyi stayed behind and said that he needed to solve some other matters here.


    Li Mazi quickly drove back. To cheer up his spirits, he yed some music. Unexpectedly, it was the ancient music piece, High Mountain  Running Water.


    A modern radio channel was ying this ssical music piece? That was really rare.


    I couldnt help but recall Boya and Zhong Ziqis story.


    I could tell that Boya and Zhong Ziqi were truly each others soul mates. Even if they had met only once during the time of war and chaos, they had been waiting for more than one thousand years just because of a promise.


    A jar of old wine, a bright moon, and a soul matethis was everything that one needed.


    However, people nowadays had their eyes blinded by greed. The old wine was still there, the moon was also high in the sky, but billions of people did not have a friend to share things with.


    People say that no friendshipsts forever, while the benefits stay behind for eternity. However, I dont agree with that. It isnt that there isnt such a friendship. Its your heart that has changed.


    Li Mazi, Chuyi, and Zen Master Baimei, and I Werent we sincere friends?


    The moment we reached the hospital, Li Mazi was so worn out that he didnt look like his usual self.


    When we arrived at Chu Chus patient room, we saw an empty bed. Li Mazi was dumbstruck. He rushed to see the doctor. Chu Chus really sick, how could you let her roam around?


    The doctor sighed reluctantly. Im so sorry, we tried our best


    Where did Chu Chu go? Tell me! Li Mazi grabbed the doctors cor, his eyes bloodshot. Im going to find her now!


    Im so sorry! The doctor didnt dare to look Li Mazi in the eye. She passed awayst night. Her family has received her remains and has sent her to the funeral home for cremation.


    No, impossible! Li Mazi shouted and yelled crazily. Chu Chu Im sure shes just hungry. She went out to buy some fruit. Im going to find her...


    Then, Li Mazi stormed out of the room like a crazy man.


    I stood still and looked at the empty room. Just like Li Mazi, I couldnt believe that Chu Chu had left like that. Her voice, her face, her smile, and even the image when she furrowed her browsthey were still in my head. She was a kind and gentle wife


    Tears rolled down my face, and my heart ached.


    Sir, actually, we notified Mister Li yesterday, the doctor told me.


    <em>Li Mazi already knew about this?</em>


    I stood dumbstruck and looked at Li Mazi, who was searching among the crowd downstairs to find Chu Chu.


    Was he in so much pain that he chose to forget this piece of memory?


    I didnt know how tofort him, so I went out and sat next to him.


    She said that she wanted to see a meteor shower because she had never made a wish in front of one. I want to take her to see a meteor shower, said Li Mazi.


    "Yeah, sounds good, I said.


    Li Mazi left with Chu Chus urn.


    Last night, the old shaman had brought Chu Chu away. Then, she followed her daughter and left this world. Her spirit and vitality were all drained, and her bloodline also came to an end.


    I took the Night Dragon Bait and returned to my shop. The grief in my heart couldnt be described with words. <em>Could this be fate? You cant keep the one youre not allowed to keep. Its just like holding sand and letting it run away through the slits between your fingers.</em>


    If we had used the Night Dragon Bait to save Chu Chu, it would have gone against the heavens will. That was why the heavens had taken a step ahead of us and brought Chu Chu away.


    However, the heavens still fulfilled Chu Chusst wish.


    On the third day after Chu Chus death, the meteor shower from Leo constetion, which would happen every thirty years, had awed Beijings night sky. Scientists hailed it as a miracle.


    As I looked at the sparkling beams in the dark, velvet night, my tears fell uncontrobly.

 Chapter 198: The Odd Story of a Relocated Grave

    Chapter 198: The Odd Story of a Relocated Grave


    In the following days, I stayed inside my shop. I didnt eat much and didnt sleep well. Whenever I closed my eyes, Id see Chu Chus smiling face and Li Mazis mournful face.


    A monthter, Li Mazi came back. He looked even thinner and had a lot of white hair. To my surprise, he introduced me to a stranger. This stranger looked malnourished and scared, just as if he had some sickness.


    I smiled and gave Li Mazi a weing hug. Where have you been this entire month?


    Li Mazi smiled at me. I went to find Chu Chu a nice ce to rest.


    I nodded and didnt continue talking about Chu Chu. I didnt want to reopen Li Mazis wounds.


    Whos this man? I asked curiously, as I looked at the person Li Mazi had brought home.


    A distant rtive. Hes called Li Mingming, Li Mazi answered. He has a problem.


    What happened? I asked Li Mingming.


    Brother, please save me! Li Mingming grabbed my hands.


    I nodded. All right, tell me about your problem. If I can, Ill try my best to help you.


    Its like this... My father came to me and he wants to take me away! said Li Mingming.


    I was speechless. In that case Maybe you can ask a policeman to help you?


    Li Mingming hurried to say, Youve misunderstood me. My father died three years ago.


    My heart skipped a beat. You mean your fathers ghost approached you?


    He stooped his head and said in distress, That''s correct.


    I guessed that there could be only one reason for his fathers ghost to approach him. He didnt fulfill his obligation as a son and his father died with a grudge.


    I denied his request. Im sorry, I just do antique trading. I cant help with a ghost pestering you or anything like that.


    Li Mingming could guess the reason why I had rejected him. He quickly exined, Brother, its not what you think. I treated my father very well. Im famous in my neighborhood for being a good son. If you dont believe me, you can ask my cousin.


    I checked things with Li Mazi. Li Mazi nodded and said, Yeah, I can testify this. This dude here is a filial one


    My curiosity was aroused. Thats strange then. If you treated him well, why would he want toe back and harm you? Tell me, how did your father pass away?


    He died of old age, passing away in his sleep, Li Mingming answered.


    Are you sure you werent hallucinating? After all, there arent many ghosts in this world... Right, did your father have some worries that he couldnt let go? How do you know that your father wanted to take you with him?


    Li Mingming shook his head. My mother passed away earlier and we didnt have many rtives. When my father was alive, he was bright and positive. Also, I held his funeral as it was in his will. Why would he be worried about anything?


    This was even stranger. I thought about two possibilities. The first one, his father was controlled by someone who had turned him into a puppet ghost. The second one, it was purely Li Mingmings imagination.


    I asked Li Mingming, Did your father have any enemies when he was alive?


    Li Mingming shook his head. No, my father was a kind and nice man. Moreover, he donated to several schools. Even if he had endured hardships, he didntin much. I dont think he had any enemies.


    This was a tricky problem. I was leaning towards the possibility that Li Mingmings mind had created the ghost


    As I was thinking about sending him to a psychologist, my eyes inadvertently wandered to his feet, and I confirmed that he did really bump into a ghost.


    His shadow on the ground was dim, and a persons shadow was like the projection of their Yang energy. If his shadow was dim, it meant that his Yang energy was weak. Unless he had a ghost pestering him, it was impossible for his Yang energy to be that low.


    No wonder he looked so weak.


    I immediately invited him into my antique shop.


    After just two steps, he panted. This was enough to prove that his Yang energy had dropped significantly.


    All right. Tell me, how did you conclude that your father wanted to take your life?


    Li Mingming took a deep breath then started talking.


    Everything started one week ago.


    That night, while he was sleeping, he suddenly felt someone sit on his bed. That person lifted his nket andy next to him.


    Li Mingming found everything very strange because his wife had taken the kids to visit her parents. So, who did get into his bed thiste at night?


    Out of curiosity, he turned to take a look, getting scared out of his wits immediately after.


    His father, who had died three years ago,y next to him. His body was soaking wet and his face was bleeding. He looked at his son with nk eyes.


    Li Mingming was frightened. He shrieked then jolted up from his bed, kowtowing to his father. Father, why are you back?


    His father answered coldly, You should hurry and follow me.


    Li Mingming understood what his father meant. He wanted him to die! He begged his father. What happened, father? Why do you want to take me with you?


    His father just repeated his words and added, Its really cold down there. You should hurry and follow me.


    Li Mingming was so scared that he couldnt say a word. He continuously pounded his head in front of his father.


    His father seemed to lose his patience. He reached out and grabbed the crown of Li Mingmings head, trying to drag him away.


    Li Mingmings legs turned like jelly, and he directly slumped onto the ground. The crown of the head protected a persons sea of consciousness. When his father grabbed his head, he wanted to take Li Mingmings soul away!


    The moment Li Mingming almost lost his consciousness, a rooster crowed. His mind felt much more clear, and he opened his eyes.


    He was still lying tucked in his bed. The room looked normal, and his father was nowhere to be seen.


    Li Mingming exhaled in relief. He weaklyy back and told himself that it was just a nightmare.


    But right at that moment, he found that his bed had arge wet area. The puddle of water on his bed had the faint smell of fish stench.


    Li Mingming was frightened as he knew it wasnt just a nightmare. His father had reallye to take him away!


    He couldnt sleep anymore. He watched TV in the living room for the whole night, and as soon as the sky turned brighter, he burned some paper money and incense at his fathers grave.


    However, the strange phenomenon didnt end there.


    Li Mingming saw his father again the next night. His father was still covered in water andy next to him. His body was cold and his scary, white eyes gazed at him.


    How could you do those immoral things? His father repeated this sentences. His voice was full of resentment.


    Li Mingming had dreamt about his father for two nights in a row. He knew that his father was pestering him.


    Father, what do you want? Do you want a car or a new house? I can offer them to you. Please dont pester me.


    His father answered coldly, I want to take you with me. I cannot let you stay andmit more immoral deeds.


    Li Mingming begged him. However, his father didnt listen to him and just repeated himself.


    After enduring this torment until dawn, Li Mingming didnt dare to take things lightly. He went to a grave master and asked him to check his fathers grave to see if there were any problems.


    The grave master had some skills, and he quickly discovered that something was wrong. The entire grave was wet, and the expert concluded that the coffin had been flooded.


    Li Mingming asked someone to dig up the grave. Sure enough, the coffin underneath was soaking wet. The water came from an underground stream that passed by the grave.


    Li Mingming burned paper money and incense for his father, kowtowing and asking for his forgiveness. The grave master then found another ce with excellent geomancy to bury the coffin.


    The grave was moved and the paper money ritual was alsoplete. Li Mingming thought that his father would finally rest and note to see him anymore.


    However, that was just the beginning.


    Late at night, Li Mingming was fast asleep when he started choking. The whole room smelled like cigarettes.


    When he drowsily got up from his bed and turned on the lights to see, he found that his small bedroom was filled with wisps of smoke.


    The door was locked and the window was closed. It was impossible for the smoke toe from the outside...


    Li Mingmings fearful eyes scanned the room. Eventually, he found the source of the smoke.


    On the ground were seven or eight cigarettes. All of them were half-puffed.


    The scene scared him out of his mind. He knew that ghosts were puffing his cigarettes. Moreover, he discovered that his fathers ghost was not the only one to visit him. There was a whole group of them!


    No matter how bold Li Mingming was, after experiencing this series of paranormal activities, he couldnt stand it anymore. He asked the grave master for help.


    However, the grave master refused to help him this time around. After Li Mingming pestered him, he told him the reason. Yesterday, someone came to me and told me that if I interfere with his business any longer, he will take my life.


    Li Mingming was startled. Master, was it my fathers ghost?


    Then, he showed his fathers picture to the master.


    The grave master shook his head, No, it was not him. It was a tall andnky old man with a long, white beard. He wore a tattered ancient robe and had a book in his hand. In my dream, he hit my head twice with his book and almost crushed my soul


    The grave master continued, If he can casually smash a living human soul, hes someone at the level of a Ghost King. I cant handle him, and youd better prepare for the worst!


    The words of the grave master scared Li Mingming so much that he almost peed his pants. He didnt waste time and used a huge amount of money to find another expert to deal with this matter.


    However, when they saw his shadow, they shook their heads and said that they couldnt help him.


    Over the next several days, the ghost-rted phenomena became more and more vivid. One night, Li Mingming heard the old radio that his father had left behind suddenly y a Beijing opera. He walked out to check and saw a group of people wearing burial clothes pacing back and forth in his living room. Needless to say, the scene scared out of his mind.


    Last night he also saw several old men wearing burial clothes. They were ying mahjong in the living room and left a mess behind. After this event, he didnt dare to stay home anymore.


    In desperation, he asked Li Mazi to introduce him to me. He wanted me to help him deal with this case.

 Chapter 199: Ghosts Smoking

    Chapter 199: Ghosts Smoking


    After listening to Li Mingming, I broke out in a cold sweat.


    It almost felt as if he was telling me a ghost story, but I knew that it was all real.


    The old, white-bearded man was the main culprit.


    Li Mingming, do you have any old items, I mean a very old one, in your house? I asked.


    I suspected that the old, white-bearded man was the spirit of an otherworldly item in his house.


    Li Mingming thought then answered, Uhm, I have a lot of antiques. Most of them are my fathers stuff and my mothers dowry. I have a dressing table, a pear wood closet, an old radio, and so on.


    Is there anything older than one hundred years? I asked.


    Li Mingming shook his head and said, No.


    Then it was really strange. I contemted and thought that there was only one possibility. Li Mingmings house had an otherworldly item but he didnt know about it.


    Feeling helpless, I could only say, Itste now. How about staying in my shop tonight? Tomorrow, we will go to your house to check things out.


    Li Mingming nodded. No problem. Anyway, I dont dare to go home alone.


    After discussing things, Li Mazi bid me farewell.


    Where are you going? I asked.


    Li Mazi sighed and said, Ive rented a piece ofnd near Chu Chus grave to grow some honey peaches. She liked honey peaches the most.


    It seemed Li Mazi still couldnt get over Chu Chu.


    After a month, his affection for Chu Chu didnt weaken. Instead, it got even stronger.


    I was afraid that he would stay like this for the rest of his life.


    I looked at him with worry. However, he smiled andforted me, as though he knew what I was thinking. Dont worry, I understand. Chu Chu wouldnt want me to waste thetter half of my life on a deceased person, either.


    I felt more relieved after hearing that. I talked to him for a while before bidding him farewell. I told him that after we were done with this case, I would pay a visit to Chu Chus grave.


    Li Mazi nodded then left.


    Since I was free now, I poured Li Mingming a cup of water and asked him for more details.


    Li Mingming was a member of the Urban Administrative and Law Enforcement Bureau in Beijings Dongcheng district. He was married and had kids. However, after the paranormal events started, he had sent his wife and kids to his wifes parents. He didnt want them to stay.


    While we were talking, Yin Xinyue came to see me. These days, she was really busy with herpany and wished she had a few clones to do everything she wanted. Since today was the weekend, she had a little time to rx.


    I didnt expect Li Mingming to recognize her.


    Are you the star Yin Xinyue, the one who appears on TV? he asked.


    Yin Xinyue smiled and said embarrassedly, No, I just happen to look like her.


    Li Mingming was a little sad. Oh, thats too bad. My wife and children are Yin Xinyues fans. They''d really like to have her autograph.


    I could tell that he really cared about his wife and children. A man who cherished his wife and children had to be filial.


    I took Yin Xinyue out for dinner. Li Mingming, do you want anything for dinner?


    He shook his head, Its okay. I dont dare to go out. Since my Yang energy is low, my luck is also bad. If Im on the road, I would likely encounter an incident, like a car crash.


    I forced a smile and left with Yin Xinyue.


    We went to a Japanese restaurant and had salmon. Yin Xinyue had a sad expression. I knew she was still thinking about Chu Chus death.


    I didnt know how to cheer her up. She had been with Chu Chu a lot recently, and they had built a strong bond. She liked Chu Chu because she was sincere and pure, which was really rare in a person.


    However, after seeing Li Mazi being so depressed and hanging around Chu Chus grave for days, she felt even more heartache.


    I sighed. <em>This girl is verypassionate, and she really cares about other people.</em>


    Yin Xinyues eyes suddenly brightened. Should I introduce Li Mazi to a girl? Perhaps we can pull him out of this slump that way!


    I thought carefully about this and considered it as a good solution. However, we couldnt tell him that we wanted to get him a girl. We had to make him gradually ept her first.


    Yin Xinyue smiled and said, Leave everything to me! My university major is screenwriting, after all.


    After chatting, we returned to my shop.


    Li Mingming had ordered food for two people from a nearby restaurant. I half-joked, You sure can eat. You have a big appetite.


    Li Mingming ced down his chopsticks. No, one portion is for me and the other one is for your grandfather.


    I was stunned. My grandfather died seven or eight years ago. What are you talking about?


    When Li Mingming heard that, he almost dropped his rice box. He said to me cautiously, Brother, dont scare me. When I was taking a shower, a grandpa knocked on the bathroom door.


    I immediately became anxious. I dont even have staff in my antique shop. Im the only one working here. How could you see an old man?


    But then, I thought, <em>could it be that my grandpas ghost paid me a visit?</em>


    I rummaged through my house then showed Li Mingming a picture of my grandfather. He took a look at it and shook his head. No, thats not him.


    I exhaled in relief and sat down. Whats happening here? Tell me the details, please.


    Li Mingming said, While I was taking a shower, I heard someone knock on the bathroom door. I opened it a little and saw an old, bony man standing at the door. He was rubbing his beard. He told me not to waste too much water. I thought he was your grandfather so I nodded to show him that I understood.


    It seems ghosts have been pestering you for real. They even followed you to my antique shop. I didnt know if I shouldugh or cry.


    No, thats impossible, said Li Mingming. He was really anxious and scared. Dont scare me. That old man was a real human. He had a gentle voice and walked like a normal person


    You are really stubborn, I said then walked to the storage room to pick up a stic bag of lime. I sprinkled the lime powder in front of the bathroom door.


    Shortly after, several footprints appeared on it. The footprints reached the door then disappeared. It seemed that the person had vanished into thin air.


    After seeing the scene, Li Mingming was terrified. He couldnt even eat. He looked at me in fright. Whom have I provoked? Why is a group of old men pestering me? Brother, you must save me!


    Dont worry. Although I said that, I wasnt so sure how to deal with the situation.


    Now, I was afraid of the white-bearded man the most. If the grave master said the truth and that old man almost crushed his soul with a book, this sort of ghost would be at a Ghost Kings level.


    I couldnt subdue him with force. I had to use another method.


    Yet, the white-bearded man seemed to have made up his mind on killing Li Mingming. Could I talk him out of it?


    Since the white-bearded man had warned the grave master, I was afraid he woulde and warn me tonight as I was also involved in Li Mingmings case. Thus, I decided not to sleep. I didnt want him to sneak in while I wasnt alert.


    Tomorrow, we would go to Li Mingmings house and see what otherworldly item was wreaking havoc. Then, I would deal with that item directly.


    I brought out all the items that could expel evil spirits in my shop, including the Sirius Whip, the Yin and Yang Umbre, and the Universe Compass. I even burned three joss sticks to Guan Yu. Then, I stayed in the living room with Li Mingming and watched TV.


    After watching TV for a while, I suddenly smelled something strange. It seemed someone was smoking.


    I sniffed and was certain about it. However, I scanned the room and saw nothing strange.


    Li Mingming also smelled the smoke. He sniffed and pointed at my bedroom.


    Eh? I frowned and looked at the direction of my bedroom.


    Sure enough, there were some wisps of blue smoke. The smoke got out of the slit between the door and the wall. However, since my antique shop wasrge, the blue smoke dispersed after it got out of the bedroom.


    <em>Some ghost is smoking in my bedroom!</em>


    <em></em>I stood up and walked toward my bedroom...

 Chapter 200: Unexpected Misfortune Would Come

    Chapter 200: Unexpected Misfortune Would Come


    Li Mingming didnt dare to sit on the sofa alone. He stood up and followed me.


    I didnt open the bedroom door because I was afraid of rming the evil things inside. I just peeped through the slit.


    However, the ce inside was filled with smoke, which hindered my vision.


    I thought it over and didnt have any other options. I decided to slowly push the door open.


    The moment I pushed the door open, thick smoke blew in my face. At the same time, I saw that the window curtains were burning!


    The me had the shape of a person; it was twisting and rolling in pain, looking miserable.


    When Li Mingming called me and asked if I had a fire extinguisher in my house, I finally reacted. I ran to the door and grabbed the fire extinguisher to put out the fire.


    As I dealt with the burning window curtains, I discovered the cause of the fire. There were several cigarette butts underneath the curtain.


    The strange thing was that when I used the fire extinguisher to put out the mes, the jet was so strong that even the window was pushed open. However, the cigarette looked as if they were fixed onto the ss, with their butts pointing downward, almost looking like joss sticks. Anyway, although the cigarettes werent burning anymore, their remaining lengths were different.


    There were three long cigarettes and two short ones, which reminded me of a very unfortunate proverb: Three long and two short, unexpected misfortune woulde.


    <em>Crap, that man just gave me a warning. If I get involved in this, Im afraid something bad will happen to me...</em>


    Since that man could burn the cigarettes and create such a mess, he had to be a powerful ghost.


    As Li Mingming was about to pick up the cigarettes, I stopped him and took out a lighter. I ignited the five cigarettes one more time.


    At the same time, I asked Li Mingming to kneel down and apologize. If we were able to burn all the cigarettes down, it meant that the man had epted Li Mingmings apology.


    However, the cigarettes seemed to be as hard as iron. No matter how hard I tried to burn them, they didnt ignite.


    It seemed the man didnt want to ept Li Mingmings apology.


    Li Mingming was still pounding his head, his forehead bleeding. I pulled him up and prevented him from hurting himself further.


    Li Mingming was anxious and worried as he looked at me. H-he Did he forgive me?


    No, but lets go now. Well talk tomorrow.


    It seemed those old ghosts had followed Li Mingming to my antique shop. I didnt want them to burn my shop down, so I stayed awake the whole night with the fire extinguisher in my hands.


    Li Mingming asked, Why dont you try to expel those ghosts?


    I exined, The evil spirits that came here with you arent the cause of your trouble. Your Yang energy is low now; this might have attracted their attention.


    But howe all of them are the ghosts of old men? Is there any reason behind it? Li Mingming asked.


    Er Im not sure. Bumping into ghosts is something very random, so it might just be a coincidence.


    Actually, I was also puzzled. Maybe it was a coincidence that he had bumped into some ghosts, but it was impossible for all of them to be the ghosts of old men!


    Ghosts were spiritual entities without much intellect. It was very strange that those old ghosts decided to gather together just because another old ghost was there.


    However, I couldnt figure out the reason and got a headache. Eventually, I didnt think about it anymore and decided to wait until the morning to go to Li Mingmings house and see if we could find an otherworldly item there.


    Nothing strange happened during the night. Early the next morning, I got in Li Mingmings car and headed toward his house.


    Li Mingmings house wasnt far, and it was located in a nice neighborhood. I felt strange. How could a smallw enforcement officer like him afford a house in Beijing? Thend there was very expensive!


    It was a hundred square meter house with two bedrooms and a living room. The interior of the house was from luxurious brands and the geomancy wasnt bad. Perhaps he had invited a master to survey thend first.


    I checked the house and didnt see any old items. The otherworldly item wasnt in this ce.


    You told me that your parents left you some items, right? Where are those old items? I asked Li Mingming.


    Theyre all in the basement, Li Mingming answered.


    Li Mingming took me to the basement of his house. Inside the basement was some old and shabby wooden furniture.


    I didnt want to throw it away. After all, its part of my childhood memories, said Li Mingming.


    I rummaged around. Most of the stuff was from forty or fifty years ago and couldnt even be considered ancient.


    It seemed Id have to wait until tonight to discover the source of these paranormal activities.


    After breakfast, I decided to visit Li Mingmings fathers grave.


    I guessed that his fathers ghost was controlled by something. He was now a puppet.


    A tiger would never eat his cubs, so no matter how furious his father was, he would not harm Li Mingming. I knew it because Li Mingming was a filial son.


    Li Mingmings fathers graves were both located at the foothill in the suburbs, where a small river passed by. This type of setup was called Waist Jade Belt in geomancy. If he was buried here, his descendants would have plenty of money. I felt that Li Mingming being able to buy thatvish house was definitely rted to this setup.


    When my father was alive, he was afraid of fire the most. Thats why I followed his will and testament to not cremate his remains and buried him in this area, Li Mingming told me.


    His fathers previous grave was flooded. That was why he had relocated him here.


    I walked around the new grave and didnt see anything strange. This grave shouldnt have been tampered with.


    After Li Mingming relocated his fathers grave, his father no longer came to him at night; this could exin why.


    I asked him to take me to the previous grave in hopes of finding some clues.


    The old grave was filled and leveled, but we still saw water oozing. Perhaps the underground stream hadnt dried up yet.


    I followed the direction of the underground stream and eventually found a small river.


    The small river was around a dozen meters away from the grave. In theory, this kind of small river and its calm waters couldnt create an underground stream. Was the underground stream manmade?


    After pondering about the absence of Li Mingmings fathers ghost, I came to a conclusion in my mind. I asked Li Mingming to jump into the river and see if he could find any underwater canal.


    Shortly after, Li Mingming found a hidden canal that led to the underground stream. Enraged, he cursed, Shoot, this underground stream is manmade. The entrance has a concrete pipe. Someone purposely flooded my fathers grave!


    My guess was correct.


    You should think carefully. Have you ever offended anyone? Or, did your father have any enemies? I asked him.


    Li Mingming was a little puzzled. I cant tell for sure but my father shouldnt have any enemies. I have some people who dislike me, but not enough to harm me, I guess?


    Okay, when we get home, make a list of these people. We need to see who might have a grudge against you. We might find something unexpected, I said.


    All right, Li Mingming answered helplessly.


    On the way back, I saw an old man holding an iron shovel. When he saw us, he immediately walked in another direction.


    My sixth sense told me that the man was suspicious. After befriending Chuyi for quite a long time, I had learned how to read people.


    I signaled Li Mingming to halt. Do you know that old man?


    Li Mingming recognized the man. Yeah, I know him. That old man sells roasted sweet potatoes by the street. What about him?


    Ask him why he hase here with a shovel and why he avoided us when he saw us.


    Li Mengmeng said, Ah, its nothing. He exploits the wastnd by the foot of the mountain to grow sweet potatoes. I think hes going to dig up some sweet potatoes. Peddlers always try to hide fromw enforcement officers, right? I guess hes just too sensitive.


    Is there any grudge between you two? Why did he avoid us? I asked.


    Li Mingming hesitated then said, Sort of, but its trivial.


    I had no idea where the otherworldly item was, so I had totch onto any trace or clue I could find. As such, I asked Li Mingming to tell me about the grudge between them in details.

 Chapter 201: Three Strategies of Huang Shigong

    Chapter 201: Three Strategies of Huang Shigong


    The old man lived alone. He didnt have a family nor a child and selling roasted sweet potatoes was his livelihood. Moreover, he often upied the sidewalk to make more profit.


    At first, Li Mingming knew that the old man was living with difficulties, so he turned a blind eye and let him do his business on the sidewalk. However, urban areas were recently implementing a program called For a Civilized City, which focused on cleaning the peddlers and vendors on the sidewalks. Li Mingming couldnt sympathize with the old man anymore, and he could only ask him to leave.


    The old man was bold. Every time, he would create a scene with thew enforcement officers. Eventually, out of reluctance, Li Mingming had to confiscate his cooking tools. At first, the old man quarreled and struggled against him a lot. Then, he went silent. After giving him a verbally educated talk, Li Mingming returned the tools to him.


    After that, the old man seemed to have changed. From that day on, he no longer upied the entire sidewalk to sell sweet potatoes.


    However, old men who lived alone were often stubborn and narrow-minded. I didnt believe that a verbal lesson could make such an old man change into a new person!


    When did you start encountering those ghosts? I asked Li Mingming.


    Li Mingming took a deep breath and said, It was one day after I gave him back his tools!


    I nced at Li Mingming, who suddenly realized something. Damn it, is he the bastard that harmed me?


    I shushed Li Mingming. Lets follow him and well know.


    Li Mingming nodded. Then, we both stealthily crept over.


    The old man sneakily went to Li Mingmings fathers grave. He checked around to see that no one was there and started to dig up the grave.


    Li Mingming was furious. He was tempted to dash from the tree we were hiding behind. However, I quickly stopped him as I wanted to see what the old man was going to do. I suspected that the otherworldly item wasnt in Li Mingmings house but in his fathers grave.


    This old man looked around seventy or even eighty years old. He was very skinny, but his physique wasnt bad. He looked strong and agile as he dug up the grave. His strength wasnt less than that of a young man.


    Shortly after, the old man had dug the ground until revealing a ck coffin. The coffin looked a bit decayed and there were signs of it having been soaked in water.


    He squatted and cleared theyer of dirt on the surface of the coffin. Then, he picked up something from the ground and tucked it away into his clothes, using the soil he had just excavated to refill and level the grave.


    As I had guessed, the otherworldly item was right there!


    Li Mingming was restless. Eventually, he ignore me and sprinted forward.


    As soon as Li Mingming left the cover of the tree, the old man noticed him. He was scared and hurled his shovel aside, running away madly.


    But how could an old man like himpete in a race against Li Mingming, a young man? Li Mingming caught him shortly after and pinned him onto the ground. Then, the young man punched the old man, making him shriek in pain.


    I was worried that Li Mingming would kill him, so I walked forward and pulled him back.


    Li Mingming hadnt vented his anger yet. He red at the old man and shouted, I even treated you well, how could you harm me like this?! Im going to kill you!


    The old man returned to his senses. Although he was bruised, he didnt look scared anymore. He red back at Li Mingming. Youve hit an old man! Im going to report this to the police! They will arrest you!


    Then, the old man took out his phone and was ready to call the police.


    Li Mingming was enraged. He jumped and attempted to hit the old man again. I stopped him and went to look for the thing that the old man had hidden away in his clothes.


    It was surprised to find that it was a book. It was an old, damaged book with many pages stuck together. The pages had turned yellow.


    The cover of the old book had five big words on it: Three Strategies of Huang Shigong. [1]


    As soon as I seized the book from him, the old man became flustered. He didnt care about his wounds and stood up, trying to snatch it back.


    Li Mingming kicked the old man and sent him back to the ground. He then jumped on him and restrained him.


    I understand now. I looked at the book again, and a lot of things became clearer in my mind. This book was the otherworldly item that had caused all those problems.


    Li Mingming asked, Brother, is this the root of all my troubles?


    I nodded.


    Li Mingming was even more enraged. He started to strangle the old man. You... you were trying to harm to me!


    Li Mingming was so furious that he had lost his mind. The old man wiggled in pain but he couldnt break free.


    I pulled Li Mingming back and said coldly, Although I dont have any way to persuade the cops, its obvious that you have attempted to kill Li Mingming. Ill notify the ferrymen of the Netherworld that you have attempted to murder people. When your timees, Yama will definitely send you to Hell.


    The old man was scared, his face turning pale.


    Well, you still have time to atone for your sins, I said. Why did you want to kill Li Mingming?


    I didnt want to kill him, the old man said. I just wanted to teach him a lesson. He didnt respect me, an old man.


    I was dumbstruck. He was so stubborn that he nned to use such wicked means to harm people, only because they didnt respect him.


    Li Mingming scolded him before I could ask any more questions, What are you talking about?! I took care of you every day! Im only following the orders of my superiors. Thats why we want to transform the city, and thats why were very strict with the peddlers. What else could I do?


    Hmph, why didn''t any of your superiorse and trouble me? Youre the one who caused me trouble and confiscated my tools. Who else should I give a lesson besides you?


    Li Mingming was speechless after listening to the furious old man. He bared his teeth and red back at him.


    I smiled awkwardly and said, How did you obtain this otherworldly item? Did you know it can actually kill people?


    What the heck is an otherworldly item? The old man looked at me with a confused face. I just wanted to give this kid a lesson. I didnt want to hurt him. I did this because hes troubled me and cut off my livelihood.


    I didnt have the time to exin things to him, so Li Mingming would slowly make things clear for himter. The main problem right now was to figure out the origin of this otherworldly item and how to break the curse.


    If Im not wrong, this book must be written by the number one strategist working for Liu Bang, Zhang Liang. Howe you have it? Also, how did you know you can use it to teach someone a lesson? I asked.


    I knew some things about this book.


    Rumor said that young Zhang Liang couldnt fulfill his ambition so he looked gloomy all the time. One day, as he was crossing a bridge, he saw an old man who was sighing.


    Whats wrong, sir? Zhang Liang asked.


    My shoe fell into the water. Can you help me fish it up? said the old man.


    Zhang Liang pitied the old man. He didnt hesitate and jumped into the river to pick up his shoe.


    The old man was so pleased that Zhang Liang knew how to respect his elders. He told Zhang Liang that it was their destiny that they had bumped into each other at this ce. He gave the young man a book about military strategy as a gift. That book was the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong.


    With the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong, Zhang Liang eventually became the top strategist in history! He helped Liu Bang, the first Han Emperor, defeat Xiang Yu the Conqueror, bringing peace to the world and making an outstanding figure in history!


    I thought that this ssic had been lost, and never expected to see it here. This was really thrilling.


    1. One of the Seven Military ssics of Ancient China.

 Chapter 202: Thirty-Six Steps of the Big Dipper

    Chapter 202: Thirty-Six Steps of the Big Dipper


    Thats correct, said the old man. This military ssic belonged to the number strategist of the Han Dynasty, Zhang Liang, and its been passed down in my family for ages. This thing is very special, and its been with me for seventy years. Thats why I have not encountered any big cmity until now. ording to my ancestors, the spirit dwelling in the book specializes in dealing with disrespectful young people. Thats why I thought about using it to give this cityw enforcement officer a lesson.


    Then, why did you need to diverge the water stream and flood his fathers grave? I asked.


    Actually, in the beginning, I didnt want to use the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong. I just wanted to flood his fathers grave, which would make his fathere back and teach him a lesson himself. However, this kid didnt change. He returned to the streets to bully the poor peddlers. Also, he relocated the grave. That was when I thought about using the book to show him his mistakes, the old man exined.


    Everything was clear now. No wonder Li Mingmings father hade to him to teach him a lesson.


    Then, after his father left, a white-bearded old man came instead.


    Everything is your fault! Li Mingming was enraged. My dad rested in peace, and you disturbed him on purpose!


    I had no choice as your father didnt teach you well! I wanted to make your father return so that he could teach you again. I wanted to see if you would change. I saw that you havent been bullying the peddlers these past days, so I came here to retrieve the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong, but I didnt expect to bump into you guys.


    So you think that everything will be alright if you take the book away? I coldly looked at the old man. The souls living inside otherworldly items exist because of the obsession they hold onto. They dont have a sane mind. Since youve used the book to curse Li Mingming, the soul inside wont stop until he dies


    I recalled the white-bearded man who had warned the grave master in his dream. Needless to say, it was the spirit living in the book.


    From what he said, I knew he wouldnt stop until Li Mingming was dead!


    The old man was startled. What do you mean? Are you saying that the spirit inside the book is evil and wants to kill this kid? Thats impossible. If this spirit is evil, howe nothing happened to me during all these years Ive had the book? My ancestors have never said anything about it, either.


    I smiled reluctantly. Without any Yin energy to stimte the book, no matter how long youve kept it, it wont cause any trouble. Since Li Mingmings fathers grave was flooded, his resentful energy rocketed, and the soul living inside the book was awakened.


    Li Mingming red furiously at the old man. Look at what youve done!


    The old man didnt want to appear weak. Youve done this to yourself. If you had shown respect for your elders, you wouldnt have encountered this cmity!


    I got a headache from listening to their quarrel. I immediately stood between them. All right, all right, the urgent thing to do now is to see how to take care of the otherworldly item. You guys are just wasting time by quarreling.


    I guessed the old man also felt a little guilty as he asked me how he could help.


    It was good that we had the owner of the otherworldly item on our side. At least, we wouldnt be in mortal danger.


    Thats good then. Youll join us tonight. With you being present, I think my sess rate will be higher.


    The old man agreed.


    I hade up with a solution that I thought was suitable. If the spirit wasnt going to stop until he saw Li Mingming die, then I would make him see Li Mingmings death.


    We didnt directly go home. Instead, we went to the food market to buy a rooster, one kilogram of rice, a butcher knife, and a bunch of misceneous items. We needed to use these things tonight.


    Everything was prepared. We just had to wait for the spirit to show up at night.


    The old man and Li Mingming seemed to dislike each other a lot. They quarreled for the whole time, which irritated me quite a bit. I had no choice but to ignore them.


    At the moment, they were having a debate on whether cityw enforcement officers should confiscate things on the street. The old man supported the families and the peddlers, while Li Mingming had his officers point of view about protecting the citys image. They had a good debate, so good that they almost punched each other in the face. I had to jump in and stop them.


    The old man asked me, Who is right in this situation? You see, Im just an old man. I dont have any particr skills, and I dont have a piece ofnd to grow things on. Having some rice in my bowl is already a problem. If you dont allow me to have a small stall to sell food, then I will die of hunger. Will government officers be happy if we die of hunger?


    This is a city and if the peddlers and vendors are everywhere, it will affect the traffic and the citys appearance. Also, what about the people who rent a front shop to do their business? How could they be content if you upy the space? Would this city grow any further? Would this country continue to thrive? It would be a feudal society, wouldnt it? Li Mingming snapped back.


    I dont care and I cant care about the citys image or the country. I can only care about that if my stomach isnt empty. Anyway, if we cant ensure our welfare, how would that be any different from a feudal society?


    In such a situation, everybody had their point of view. This sort of dispute has been around for a long time, yet no one has solved it yet. These two guys were representing one of the biggest contradictions in current China. Even if their dispute was solved, it wouldnt change the minds of others.


    Night came.


    Under the hazy moonlight, I stood by the window, looking at thevish, feasting, and pleasure-seeking city. I felt the chills brought by the wind and pitied theborious people out there.


    It was all about surviving. For just a bowl of rice, someone had to work from sunrise to sunset. Yet, there were people ready to deprive them of their livelihood. This world was really cruel.


    A mass of dark clouds quietly drifted over, which made the moonlight only partially visible.


    It was the moment when Yin and Yang intertwined, ready to take each others ce. As the old proverb said: When Yin was at its weakest, it would flourish. This moment was the time when the Yin energy was the most vigorous. It was possible that the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong might take action!


    I ced the book by the window and let the foggy moonlight shine over it. The old man and Li Mingming were also ready.


    Li Mingming held a red thread. One end was tied to his leg, while the other end was tied to the roosters neck. Then, he cut his finger and smeared the blood over the roosters eyes. Then, he hugged the rooster and held it in front of his chest.


    The old man held up the butcher knife. After scattering all the rice around the room, he nervously shrank in a corner.


    I nodded at Li Mingming, who started to walk around the living room. Every time he took a step, his feet pressed on the rice.


    As he walked, he also counted the number of steps he took.


    I told him to take exactly thirty-six steps, which was the number of steps of the Big Dipper. This could protect him, more or less.


    One, two, three He carefully walked around the room, holding the rooster, which was as still as a corpse. However, its pair of red eyes now glowed in a faint red light.


    Thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six


    He had walked in a circle like this around ten times, but everything was quiet. Nothing strange had happened yet.


    However, soon after, something strange did happen. At his 17th circle, when Li Mingming counted to thirty-four, his twost steps were merged into a long stride. This meant he had walked only thirty-five steps this time around.


    Dont move! I yelled out to Li Mingming immediately.


    Li Mingming stood still, not moving in the slightest.


    At the same time, the rooster Li Mingming was holding began to kick its legs. The roosters eyes became misty and blurry. Its head dropped then lifted as if it was pecking rice.


    I immediately turned to check the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong.


    The book was now covered in ayer of mist. Theyer was thin but it had some red tints. Eventually, the mist started to spread in the room.


    I took a deep breath as I knew that the spirit in the book was about to show itself!

 Chapter 203: Chinese Filial Piety

    Chapter 203: Chinese Filial Piety


    Hehe!


    A series of bizarreughter came from the hall. It startled me, so I turned around to look. However, the hall was empty. No one was there.


    When my eyes shifted back to Li Mingming, I was dumbstruck.


    Four shadows had appeared behind him. Although they were all dim, I could tell they didnt belong to him because their movements were different from Li Mingmings.


    Li Mingming held the rooster with both hands while the four shadows behind him held their hands over their heads. I had no idea what they wanted to do.


    While I was about to get the old man to act, Li Mingming let out a squeaking sound. He sounded as if he was huping. Then, his body arched and crouched like a dog on the ground.


    The rooster in Li Mingmings chest wiggled and flew away. It then started to peck on the rice on the ground.


    Since the rooster and Li Mingming were connected by the red thread, from an aspect, their fates ovepped. As the rooster pecked the rice grains on the ground continuously, Li Mingmings head also dropped and lifted constantly. It was as if he was pecking the grains, too.


    But he didnt actually peck. Whenever his head dropped, it hit the ground loudly. I could see that his forehead was almost bleeding. If he continued acting this way, I was afraid that his head would burst open and his brain ssh out.


    I needed to take action now!


    I nodded to the old man. He walked out of the corner and wielded the butcher knife, chopping off the roosters head.


    The roosters head fell off, and the blood sshed everywhere. Its body kept wiggling and trembling, dyeing the whole living room red.


    I grabbed two swam eels and squeezed some drops of blood on Li Mingmings neck.


    This wasnt an easy task since Li Mingming had been mimicking the rooster. He was kicking, pping, and rolling around. I struggled to smear the eel blood on his neck.


    The rooster convulsed for a while thenid still. As a result, Li Mingming also copsed on the ground.


    The old man was restless and asked me, Will Li Mingming die?


    I shook my head and asked him to take a closer look. Not long after Li Mingming had copsed, the shadows underneath him gradually left him. They moved to the rooster nearby.


    The scene was really scary. The dead rooster had four human shadows now!


    The shadows seemed to pluck the roosters feathers unceasingly, fiddling with its body. However, they didnt do it for a long time as they soon returned to Li Mingmings feet.


    My heart skipped a beat. <em>Whats going on? Did they know that were trying to swap their fates?</em>


    <em></em>While I was still considering this possibility, Li Mingming stood up from the ground. The shadows underneath him had now merged into one.


    I could clearly see that the shadow was holding a book in his hand. We had failed to deceive the shadows, and the spirit living in the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong book had now shown up!


    Li Mingmings eyes were rolled back as he walked on the tips of his toes, heading towards the window.


    The old man was scared. He raised the butcher knife but he didnt know what to do with it. I grabbed his butcher knife because I was afraid he would do something stupid. I asked him to watch Li Mingming, who was stiffly walking toward the window.


    It seemed the spirit wanted to make Li Mingming jump off the building.


    The old man trembled and asked me, What should we do now?


    <em>What should we do now? We can only keep an eye on Li Mingming. If we actually engage in a fight with the spirit, Im sure we wont be able to overpower him!</em>


    Li Mingming struggled his way to the window. He picked up the book and carefully flipped through it.


    I cautiously tied Li Mingming with a big rope, just in case he jumped through the window.


    But even after a long time, Li Mingming didnt do anything. He just read the book. It was as if he was really infatuated with it.


    It was very rare to see a ghost that still craved studying. I suddenly felt that the situation was somewhat hrious.


    While I was still contemting, Li Mingming dropped the book. Then, he quietlyy back on the ground.


    The strange shadow beneath his feet was gone.


    I exhaled in relief. It seemed that the soul didnt want to kill Li Mingming.


    The blood-red mist that covered the book also began to scatter.


    I immediately burned three joss sticks for the book. The sticks burned slowly, with the wisps of smoke moving towards the book.


    A momentter, Li Mingming woke up. He seemed to have be another man. His attitude toward the old man changedpletely, and he continuously apologized to him.


    The old man was still flustered and thought that Li Mingming was still possessed.


    Li Mingming, what happened while you were unconscious? I asked.


    Li Mingming had a wry smile and pointed at the book, Three Strategies of Huang Shigong.


    I picked it up and looked at the first page since Li Mingming had stared at the first page the entire time.


    The first chapter was about loyalty and filial piety. It wasnt about military tactics.


    Elders are the foundation of society, and they have a lot of experience. Be modest and ask them for direction


    It seemed the spirit didnt want to take Li Mingmings life. He just wanted to teach him to respect the elderly.


    Li Mingming grimaced and said, Actually, Im not the sort of man that disrespects others, especially old people. I was forced to do so. Old people have experienced a lot of hardships, and theyve dedicated their lives to this society. When they are senile, society should respect them. But now, with the current regime, we cant do anything to ensure their welfare


    Youre making me feel embarrassed now. The old man couldnt hold in hisughter. I could have just found another ce to set up my stall, but I was angry at you guys and couldnt let it go.


    For thousands of years, no man was able to solve this kind of contradiction between the social echelons, let alone you two. I smiled and said, Everything is for our survival, right? All right, I should go. You two can solve this problem by yourselves now.


    Before I left, the old man persistently asked me to keep the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong. He told me that it could help me in the future.


    I kindly received the book. Besides the fact it was an otherworldly item, its historic value alone made it very expensive.


    However, I had no n to sell it. This antique had a great history, and I was unwilling to let it go.


    China was a state of etiquette. Since ancient times, we were taught to cherish the children and respect the elderly. However, I understood that it was just a farce to keep up appearances.


    The older generations had spent their whole lives building this country, and now, when they were senile, society didnt take care of them. Quite the contrary, it made things harder for them; it wasnt fair.


    However, this wasnt a problem that a person or a policy could solve. If we wanted society to show concern for the elderly and solve this contradiction, we had to set a good example first and change peoples mind!

 Chapter 204: The Recorded Death

    Chapter 204: The Recorded Death


    Not long after I returned, Yin Xinyue called me. Im going to bring a female friend of mine to your shop. You must call Li Mazi and make hime.


    Of course, I understood Yin Xinyues intention. She wanted to introduce the girl to Li Mazi. I agreed and called Li Mazi, telling him toe to my shop immediately.


    However, Li Mazi said that he couldnte because he was going to nt some peach trees around Chu Chus grave. He had to stay behind to water and fertilize the trees. He didnt have time.


    I couldnt help but feel sad. Li Mazi seemed to be lost in his sorrow. Ive got a business case that I need you to help me with. If you donte, I might die.


    After hearing this, Li Mazi agreed toe.


    Yin Xinyue arrived shortly after. Apanying her was a pretty girl that looked even cuter than Yin Xinyue herself. She was a little chubby with a petite body. Two dimples appeared on her face whenever she smiled, and her hair reached her shoulders.


    She was very lively, and she directly called me brother-inw when we met. This made me feel very embarrassed, and Yin Xinyue also threatened to strip her if she slipped her tongue and talked nonsense again.


    However, to Yin Xinyues dismay, the girl still kept addressing me as brother-inw.


    Brother-inw, Ive heard that youve bumped into a zombie. Is that true?


    Brother-inw, do many of the antiques in your shop have a spirit? Could you open my Yin and Yang eyes so that I could see them too?


    Brother-inw, I have an otherworldly item in my house. Ivee to see you today to ask for your help.


    I thought to myself, <em>This girl is really lively. I just hope she doesnt turn my antique shop upside down...</em>


    However, I still answered all of her questions with a smiling face.


    Yin Xinyue didnt look pleased because the girl kept pestering me with her questions. Girl, are you here to study or something? Lets go out. Were going to have a BBQ. Later I will introduce you to a mature oppa.


    While we had lunch, I learned that the girl was called Ru Xue. We had waited for a while but Li Mazi hadnt arrived, so we decided to eat without him.


    During lunch, the girl was still very energetic. She continued to ask questions here and there. I was embarrassed and had to stop eating in order to answer her questions. I was afraid that I would spit food out of my mouth as I talked, which would definitely ruin my reputation.


    However, I noticed that something was wrong. The girl had beautiful, rosy cheeks earlier. However, the longer we ate, the paler she had be.


    I didnt feelfortable because I had a strong feeling that there was something wrong with her. I excused myself and asked Yin Xinyue to walk outside with me.


    Yin Xinyue was puzzled and asked, What happened?


    Has Ru Xue bumped into anything eviltely?


    Yin Xinyue looked at me bewilderedly. Arent you too absorbed in this business of yours? Shes just a little girl. How could she have encountered something evil?


    I smiled. All right, Ill just have to prove it.


    I pulled Yin Xinyue to the kitchen and added a lot of salt into the fish soup we ordered. Then, I asked her to bring the soup to our table. I wanted Ru Xue to drink it.


    Yin Xinyue rolled her eyes at me. Do you hate her or something? Why are you teasing her like this? Shes my friend!


    If I dont act now and the evil thing takes control of her body, the situation will be more serious.


    Yin Xinyue hesitated for a while then nodded. She brought the fish soup to the table.


    A momentter, I followed her to observe Ru Xue.


    Ru Xue was a foodie. As soon as Yin Xinyue ced the bowl down, she picked up the spoon and drank the soup.


    However, after the first sip, Ru Xue couldnt help but hup uncontrobly. While huping, she asked, Why is the soup so salty? Wheres the chef? We need to rece the soup! How could they cook this soup?!


    I asked, Ru Xue, do you often hup?


    Ru Xue blushed. Its embarrassing Hic I-I only hic hup when I have salty food.


    Did this bad habit appear in thest few days? I asked.


    Ru Xue was surprised. Brother-inw, how did you know that? Youre really skilled!


    Ru Xue, did anything strange happen to you recently?


    Ru Xue dropped her spoon and didnt hup anymore. You... How did you know that?


    I told her, The Yin energy in your body is very strong, and refined salt repels Yin energy. When you eat salty foods, it will expel the Yin energy from your body. Thats why you hup.


    Ru Xue was puzzled. So, d-did I really bump into a ghost?


    I nodded and said, It might be.


    Ru Xue shivered. Oh my! It turns out Ive been followed by a ghost these past few days, how romantic!


    <em>Romantic? What is freaking romantic about this?</em>


    Ru Xue, what happened to you these past days? I asked.


    It should be the elevator in our apartment building, ghosts must be haunting that ce. I heard that a delivery boy went missing in the elevator, and the case was even stranger than Lam Ho Yis. [1] After that, the residents in our neighborhood started to spread a rumor that a ghost was living in that elevator. Nobody dares to use it anymore.


    Xu Rue was a bold girl, and also somewhatzy, so she didnt really care about the rumors and kept using it.


    After hearing my analysis, Xu Rue finally believed that the elevator was haunted. Although she was brave, she now understood that she had provoked something evil. Feeling frightened, she asked, What should I do now?


    Yin Xinyue smiled and said, This matter is really troublesome. Im not sure if Brother Zhang has a solution. Just wait here. An uncle wille and help you soon.


    Ru Xue began to sob. I dont want to go home tonight! Elder Sister Xinyue, can you stay with me tonight? Now that I think about it, that elevator is indeed strange


    Whats strange about it? I asked.


    Every time I rode the elevator, it would stop on the third floor. But when the door opened, there was no one outside. The delivery boy also disappeared on the third floor! And, every time I got into the elevator, it was freezing cold.


    I couldnt help butugh. Things were so strange and yet she didnt believe the rumors. This girl was really simple-minded.


    After waiting for Li Mazi, we headed go to Ru Xues apartment building.


    On the way, I asked Ru Xue to think things over. I wanted to see if she had missed any details. Ru Xue shook her head. I never thought that it would be rted to a ghost so I didnt really pay attention.


    Yin Xinyue purposely created chances for Li Mazi to talk to Ru Xue. However, Li Mazi was somewhat absent-minded. Sometimes, when Ru Xue asked him a question, he didnt listen and Ru Xue would have to repeat herself.


    The girl even thought that Li Mazis hearing had problems. I had a strong feeling that the matchmaking wouldnt work as Ru Xue didnt seem to like Li Mazi.


    When we reached Ru Xues apartment building, we rode the elevator several times up and down. However, we didnt notice anything abnormal.


    I then asked Ru Xue, When do you normally use the elevator?


    Ru Xue answered, Hmm, I go to work at 6 AM ande home after dinnertime, around 10 PM. Those strange events happened around that time.


    Then well have to wait and take the elevator at night to experience it...


    For the time being, I wanted to know what had happened to the delivery guy that day in the elevator. Since the elevator had cameras, they should have been able to capture the scene.


    I asked Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue to wait in her apartment while Li Mazi and I went to the control room to see what the cameras had recorded.


    Li Mazi, what do you think about Ru Xue?


    Li Mazi looked at me bewilderedly. What about her?


    I mean, what do you think about her?


    Shes all right. Then, he remained silent.


    This fellow was truly clueless at times. I guessed he hadnt figured out that we wanted to match them. I decided to talk him into this once he got over his sorrow.


    We soon found the control room. However, the man in charge didnt want to show us the recordings no matter what. He told us the police had taken all of the tapes as evidence.


    Of course, I knew that he was trying to deceive us. The more excuses he made, the more certain I was that there was something wrong with the elevator. Yin Xinyue knew some policemen because we had helped them solve a big case. We soon got the privilege to watch the video recordings. However, the guy asked us to keep all the information confidential. We shouldnt tell anybody about this!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Elisa_Lam

 Chapter 205: The Express Delivery From Ten Years Ago

    Chapter 205: The Express Delivery From Ten Years Ago


    From the video recording, I saw that a young delivery guy had entered the elevator while holding a box in his arms. I could vaguely see the receipt adhered to the box. Needless to say, that box was the item to be delivered.


    The elevator slowly moved up. Not long afterward, it slightly shook then stopped!


    The delivery guy felt flustered. He immediately dropped the box and tried to use his hands to open the elevator.


    It was strange. In such a situation, any other person would press the emergency button first. This wasmon knowledge. The express delivery guy wore sses and seemed the intellectual type. How could he not know about this basic stuff?


    After a while, he stopped pushing the doors. He crouched and curled up in a corner, seemingly very scared. He cautiously looked at the elevator doors and stayed in the corner for quite a long time.


    Then, he apparently saw something very scary and instinctively covered his eyes. His body trembled, and he kicked disorderly as if he was trying to push away something that was pressing on him.


    However, there was nothing in front of him. He looked really weird as he kicked and punched the air. After struggling for a while, the delivery guy stood up abruptly, not moving from his original position


    Right after that, both of his legs twisted and reached a shocking angle. To form such an angle, they were clearly broken.


    Then, his arms began to move until they were bent to almost 90 degrees! He looked like a snake that slumped on the ground. Blood started to ooze from the corners of his mouth, eyes, nostrils, and ears. However, he was still able to crawl away.


    Soon after, he disappeared from the view of the elevators camera. The box he had brought with him was left in the elevator.


    After watching the recording, I was sweating and felt frightened. Li Mazi was even worse. He had to clutch onto the table in order to support himself from not falling onto the ground. His face was as pale as a sheet of white paper.


    How could this happen? Even if he was possessed by a ghost, he shouldnt have been able to twist his arms and legs like that, right? I think that this delivery guy was a ghost himself.


    I gulped and asked the staff in charge of the elevator. Wheres that parcel now?


    The police took it.


    Do they know whats inside that parcel?


    It seemed to be some garments, answered the staff member. But I dont know for sure. Its not something we can know with our limited connections.


    That box was fishy. After we got back, I asked Yin Xinyue to contact the police. I had to know what was inside that parcel, who had sent it, and to whom.


    After Yin Xinyue listened to what we had seen in the surveince video, she was worried. Brother Zhang, should we leave this matter alone? Its really frightening


    Id also like to leave it alone. However, strong Yin energy seeped into Ru Xues body due to that thing. Shell be in great danger if shes targeted!


    After hearing that the other party could target her, Ru Xue was scared out of her wits despite being a simple-minded person. She begged me to help her. Her cheerful, lively facial expression had disappeared.


    Li Mazi said, We cant act rashly as we might have to put our lives on the line to deal with that thing. How about this? You can move to another apartment first. Perhaps that thing wont trouble you anymore.


    Without waiting for me to talk, Yin Xinyue intervened. Right, why didnt I think of that? We should do that! Ru Xue, you should stay at Li Mazis for the next few days. Li Mazis house has excellent geomancy, which stops ghosts or demons from approaching.


    It seemed that Yin Xinyue still hadnt given up on matching the duo.


    Ru Xue didnt reject the idea, but Li Mazi waved his hands. No, no, no, I dont agree.


    I knew Li Mazi would feel guilty towards Chu Chu if he let a woman stay in his house just one month after her death.


    Its not like I want to stay at your ce! Ru Xue seemed to be enraged after getting rejected. What geomancy? Its just a trick to deceive kids. You arent as good as Brother Zhang, and you look so vulgar


    You Li Mazi almost lost it.


    Ru Xue was satisfied. You what? Youre angry because Ive hit the right spot! Hah!


    Li Mazi was infuriated but he didnt know what to do.


    Yin Xinyue snorted angrily, wondering how could Li Mazi be so insensitive.


    I could tell it was impossible for these two to get together. I threw a signaling nce at Yin Xinyue, who wore a helpless expression, because I did not want her to waste any more energy on them.


    I asked Yin Xinyue to call the policeman in charge to see if we could know what was inside the box. Moreover, I wanted to know where the parcel came from and to whom it was for.


    Yin Xinyue made a call and talked for a while before putting her phone down. Then, she said to me, Wait for a while. The policemissioner wille and talk to us. They will join us and show us the things in the parcel.


    I furrowed my brows. Why do they need to send amissioner here?


    I still remembered thest time we cooperated with the cops. At the time, we had almost became the scapegoat for that guy. I was still scared.


    Yin Xinyue said, We dont have a choice, this is their condition. We can take a look, but we have to cooperate with the police. Theyre still troubled by this case.


    I felt reluctant, but I could only me it on my bad luck.


    Shortly after, a beefy, middle-aged man arrived. He wore casual clothes, but I could tell from his aura that he was an experienced cop.


    The man introduced himself, Hello everybody. Im Lin Zhongcheng from the Criminal Police Department, the one in charge of this case. Things are really abnormal this time and Id like to hear what Mr. Zhang has to say.


    Although I didnt like their shady tactics, there was a proverb that said that it was best not to p a smiling face. I patiently analyze the case for him. This case seems very special, and its possibly rted to a supernatural beings. However, I dont dare to jump to that conclusion just yet. We should discuss again after we see the things inside the parcel.


    Lin Zhongcheng showed us a square box and opened it.


    The parcel contained a set of ancient-looking garments. The clothes were made of translucent gauze, red-and-white soft fabric, had a wide top and a narrow bottom. If paired with a light blue belt, this clothing would really make the woman that wore it shine.


    Moreover, I could tell from the fabric that it was expensive, handmade silk. Only some rich women in ancient times could wear something like this.


    Where did the delivery guy get this item? I asked.


    Lin Zhongcheng shook his head. No idea. This is an ancient item. Weve asked an expert and the answer was that its at least five hundred years old. Unfortunately, we couldnt track down its origin.


    Where was it supposed to be delivered? I asked.


    To apartment No. 304. However, the name of the receiver on the receipt isnt the tenant thats living in that apartment. The people living there dont even know the name. Weve investigated and found that the name belongs to the tenant who lived in that very apartment ten years ago. However, they moved out precisely ten years ago


    In other words, the delivery guy was trying to deliver this parcel to the tenant who lived there ten years ago? Did you contact that tenant?


    Lin Zhongcheng shook his head and said, That person was an orphan. Ten years ago, they broke off their contact with the orphanage. Weve searched through the national archives, but we didnt find any clue about their whereabouts.


    Li Mazi was irritated. Nobody has ever reported that he went missing ten years ago?


    Lin Zhongcheng was somewhat embarrassed. Weve just learned that theres such a person. Moreover, no one came to the police station back then to report on his missing case.


    ording to iplete statistics, the numbers of missing people in China could reach at least seven hundred or eight hundred thousand per year. One couldnt just me the police.


    This is very strange. Who sent this parcel? I think you could check that with the post office, right? I asked.


    Lin Zhongcheng shook his head one more time. Sigh, we also thought of starting to investigate from the sender. However, it turned out that the delivery guy was fired a month ago. The recipient attached to the parcel came from his house.


    This case was really mysterious!


    So, was that guy in charge of delivering stuff in this neighborhood? I asked.


    Yes, said Lin Zhongcheng. Mr. Zhang, what do you think about this case?

 Chapter 206: The Sound From the Netherworld

    Chapter 206: The Sound From the Netherworld


    What could I even say? From the little details he provided, I couldnt guess anything yet. Wed have to check the elevator tonight.


    Before we left, Lin Zhongcheng said that we could contact the police if we needed anything. However, I tactfully declined. Sorry, but I have no intention of using police resources. Im just here to help a friend. If I can solve this case, I will. If I cant, please dont bother me. Its better if we keep some distance.


    Lin Zhongcheng was reluctant as he wanted more cooperation, but after I insisted, he could only agree to my terms.


    After seeing Lin Zhongcheng off, Li Mazi and I went to fetch the items we would use tonight.


    Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue were scared. They didnt dare to stay in the building alone and wanted to go with us, so we had no choice but to take them along.


    We took the elevator down, but nothing happened. The lift didnt stop on the third floor, and everything was perfectly normal.


    I went to buy some swamp eels and refined salt. Then, we all waited at Ru Xues apartment.


    10 PM was when the lift acted strange ording to Ru Xue. I went out and asked Li Mazi to stay and take care of the girls.


    To prevent anything unexpected from happening, I told them to sprinkle salt at the entrance, which would prevent ordinary spirits from entering the ce.


    I walked to the elevator and nced at the LED disy; the elevator was currently on the third floor.


    I knew the lift had started to act strange. Normally, when no one used the elevator, it would stop at the ground floor.


    ording to Ru Xue, no one dared to take the elevator anymore. If the lift had stopped on the third floor, it meant that something was controlling of it.


    I took a deep breath then pressed the button to call the lift. The elevator slowly rose and stopped at my floor, the tenth floor.


    The doors opened; as expected, there was no one inside.


    I entered the lift, but the instant the doors closed, I suddenly felt afraid. The narrow, closed space, and the mirror-like walls reflecting my image gave me goosebumps.


    Although I was fearful, I knew I couldnt back down now. I took out an eel and cut it, smearing its blood on the shining walls around me.


    Eel blood contained pure Yin energy. If there was a soul lingering in this ce, it would be revealed.


    I waited and didnt press any button. I wanted to see what would happen if the elevator was left to its own devices.


    The elevator slowly lowered from the tenth floor, stopping on the third floor soon after. The doors opened; yet, no one was outside.


    Until now, I hadnt encountered any ghost.


    I took out another eel and cut it in the middle. I smeared more blood onto the walls and waited patiently.


    The doors slowly closed.


    Right at that moment, I felt a strange wind blow in. The scent of blood rolled in with the wind. However, the smell dispersed and disappeared shortly after.


    My nerves wentpletely tense. I knew that this wind wasnt normal. I became more cautious and looked around.


    A light red tint slowly appeared on the wall in front of me.


    Although the color was very light, I still managed to notice it. I checked my body, and I wasnt wearing anything red, so that red color was definitely sketchy.


    The red tint moved, swaying gently. Next, another color appeared right above it, white.


    The red and white colors spiraled around, which made me remember that the parcel contained some ancient garments. If I wasnt mistaken, the person in front of me was the owner of those clothes.


    It seemed the ghost didnt want to harm me. The lift descended to the first floor. Then, the red-and-white reflection on the wall headed toward the open elevator doors and disappeared.


    I knew that the ghost was leaving, so I followed behind it. However, since I didnt have the right tools with me, I couldnt keep track of it.


    I sighed as I looked at the vehicles moving in front of me. It was toote to catch up to the ghost.


    Reluctantly, I got in the lift and pressed the button to go to the tenth floor. However, the instant the doors closed, a distant sound came to my ears.


    My nerves went tense instantly, and my ears pricked up to listen.


    The sound was vague, and it seemed toe from a distant ce. Since the elevator made some noise as it moved up, I couldnt clearly tell what the sound was, but I knew it was there.


    Sometimes, when oney on their bed to sleep, they would hear some faint noisesing from around them.


    My current situation was simr. This sort of sound was known as Netherworld Sound in my profession. As one could guess from the name, it was a sound that did not belong to this world.


    I listened attentively and held the Sirius Whip tightly.


    It sounded like a males voice. The voice was crying and weeping, looking very resentful. My heart raced in fright as I listened.


    All of a sudden, the elevator halted and the doors opened. I checked around and saw that I was on the third floor.


    A man stood in front of the elevator. He gave me a faint smile and just stood there; he didn''te in.


    I felt strange, but I didnt pay him too much attention. The doors slowly closed, and the bizarre male voice disappeared into thin air.


    However, when the lift reached the fourth floor, I heard a thud from the third floor. It sounded as if someone had just mmed the door shut.


    Soon after, the lift brought me all the way to the tenth floor. When I returned to the apartment, the others were watching TV.


    When they saw that I was back, Yin Xinyue came over and asked, How did it go?


    I didnt have the necessary tools today. Well have to wait tomorrow.


    Yin Xinyue nodded.


    Ru Xue was frightened. We should go and stay in a hotel tonight. Im scared, I dont want to stay in this building anymore!


    Li Mazi said coldly, What are you afraid of? The more frightened you are, the more that thing will bully you.


    Of course youre not afraid. Im the one whos getting targeted!


    Youre so stupid. Li Mazi didnt sound patient at all. Do you really think that the ghost will dare toe as long as we are here?


    Shut up, you dont know anything. Youre just a pig pretending to be smart!


    Li Mazi was enraged. You! How can you repay someones kindness like this?!


    Thus, the two began to quarrel.


    I didnt know whether tough or cry. Those two did nothing but quarrel; it would be surprising if they could be a couple. I moved forward to stop them.


    Ru Xue loved to enrage Li Mazi, and she was content with her achievement. She then ignored him and asked me, Did you see anything strange in the lift?


    I then told her what I had experienced back there.


    After listening to my story, Ru Xue was puzzled. You said that when you got up here, there was a man standing on the third floor?


    I nodded. Yeah, what about that?


    Ru Xue became restless. No one lives on the third floor now. After the death of that delivery guy, most of the families have moved out. Moreover, even if some have stayed, no one dares to go out at night, let alone stand and wait for the elevator


    As soon as Ru Xue reminded me, my heart skipped a beat. I jolted up. Somethings wrong. We have to go to the third floor to check things out!


    Ru Xue was scared. Do we have to go as well?


    I wanted to bring them with me because I was also scared. I didnt want to be trapped in the elevator alone.


    With Yin Xinyues encouragement, Ru Xue agreed to go with us.


    This time, nothing strange happened in the lift, and we went all the way down to the third floor. The lights were on, and the corridor was well-lit. This gave me more courage.


    When I walked out of the lift, I was something shining on the ground. I lowered my head to check and found a series of wet footprints that led from the elevator to one of the apartments.


    At first nce, Ru Xue recognized that apartment. It was apartment No. 304, the destination of the delivery guy.


    I had the feeling that something had happened to that family!

 Chapter 207: The Fearful Apartment No. 304

    Chapter 207: The Fearful Apartment No. 304


    I took a deep breath then gently knocked on the door.


    No one answered.


    I gave Li Mazi a meaningful nce. Li Mazi got the hint and yelled, Express delivery!


    Seeing him improvise gave me a cold sweat. Even if we wanted them to open the door, we shouldnt have used such a pathetic excuse. If someone was inside, they would definitely mistake us for bad people!


    Still, no one opened the door for us.


    Since lives were at stake, I decided to break the door.


    I reached to turn the knob, but the door was opened from the inside. It seemed someone was at home.


    I exhaled in relief and quickly said, Hello, were from the Police Department. We need to ask you something.


    However, the door only opened a tiny bit before stopping. The interior was pit-ck; we couldnt see anything inside.


    Is anybody home? I called one more time. Still, no one answered.


    I asked the others to step back. Then, I switched the shlight on and carefully pushed the door wide open.


    If no one was at home, the one that had just opened the door must have been


    When the door waspletely pushed open, I quietly turned on the lights of the room.


    AHHH!


    The moment the light switched on, Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue screamed and ran away. I was also scared, my legs turning to jelly. I quickly retreated and leaned against the wall to stop myself from stumbling.


    A person stood in front of us.


    However, his posture was really strange. He looked like some extreme street dancer as his legs and arms were bent at a shocking angle. His eye sockets were bleeding as both of his eyeballs had been scooped out. He was hung by a red-and-white fabric rope. His body swayed back and forth like a suspended bell.


    Its all right, its all right. Although I was terrified, I quickly calmed myself down. It was just a corpse, and he couldnt hurt anybody.


    I immediately ran tofort Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue. The two were panic-stricken. They covered their eyes and crouched on the ground.


    Li Mazi had already taken his phone out to call Lin Zhongcheng.


    Since Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue were scared out of their wits, I took them to the emergency staircase and walked down with them. We then waited for the police under a street light.


    Soon after, Lin Zhongcheng arrived with his men. I asked Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue to wait in the police car while I followed Lin Zhongcheng upstairs.


    When Lin Zhongcheng saw the strange dead body, he was also frightened. His face turned pale, and his hands shivered as he held his gun.


    Ive seen a lot of corpses, with some of them being even more gory. But its my first time seeing such a strange death. I would rather deal with those gory corpses than seeing another case like this one.


    Let alone Lin Zhongcheng, even the members of his team were horrified. After all, the entire third floor was empty as no one wanted to live there, and it wasmon knowledge that this floor was haunted.


    Under my request, the police hurried to lower the body.


    Lin Zhongcheng, did the victim live in this apartment? I asked.


    Lin Zhongcheng looked at me in puzzlement. You didnt recognize him?


    I was confused and said, Should I know him? You watched the surveince recordings of the elevators camera, didnt you? Lin Zhongcheng asked.


    My heart skipped a beat. Are you saying that hes the express delivery guy?


    Lin Zhongcheng nodded.


    <em>Shoot.</em>I cursed under my breath.


    I actually saw a ghost earlier. When the elevator stopped on the third floor, this guy stood in front of me with a smile on his face.


    At the time, the delivery guy was already dead.


    The police sealed the apartment and called the forensic team to perform an autopsy. Soon after, we got the autopsy results. The corpses legs, arms, and eyes were damaged by an external force.


    Lin Zhongcheng looked at the corpse and said, Mr. Zhang, listen here! While the victim took the lift, something happened and the lift broke. His limbs broke as a result, and his wounds were so serious that heter died.


    How are you going to exin that you couldnt find him on the day of his disappearance? Also, how did his body move to apartment No. 304?


    Lin Zhongcheng looked at me with a wry smile. Sometimes, its better to leave some questions unanswered.


    I understood what Lin Zhongcheng meant. He didnt want to continue to investigate this case. Otherwise, society as a whole might be affected, and he could lose his job.


    I knew that he had worked hard to get where he was, so I didnt insist. I nodded to show my agreement.


    Of course, this was just to keep up appearances. I would never give up until I found the real cause.


    The corpse was taken away, and since we were the key witnesses, we were taken to the police station to give our oral confessions. We got released shortly after.


    Ru Xue was very scared. What do we do now? That corpse went missing for a long time; the cops had searched the entire third floor back then but couldnt find it. How did it suddenly end up in that apartment?


    It seems well have to make a trip to apartment No. 304, I said.


    No. Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue immediately rejected my suggestion. Its too dangerous. We dont want to go.


    Im going with Li Mazi, I said. That apartment is the key to this case. I discovered something while I was there.


    Oh, what did you discover? Li Mazi looked at me with interest.


    That apartment has two ghosts, I answered. However, they rarely bump into each other.


    Howe? Li Mazi looked at me puzzled.


    One goes out in the morning and returns in the evening, while the other goes out at night and returns early morning, I patiently exined. We have to understand where they are going.


    Li Mazi nodded and looked pensive.


    Why do we have to go to No. 304? Ru Xue didnt understand.


    Its simple. Because thats where the ghosts depart. We have to keep track of them from there.


    Can you keep track of a ghost? Yin Xinyue was doubtful.


    I held the ancient garments in my hands and said, Dont worry. If their deaths were rted to this ancient dress, as soon as the dress appears, the ghosts will be attracted to it.


    I studied the dress one more time. The dress exuded an ancient aura that made one feel pressure. It was as if I was standing in front of an upper-ss woman.


    To the police, the case seemed to end here. They announced to the neighborhood that they had found the victim underneath the elevator. It was just an ident.


    A strange death had been covered up with the usage of technology. Only God knew how many simr cases had been covered up in the same way.


    The families that lived on the third floor returned to their respective apartments, and the elevator was operative again.


    I felt both happy and worried.


    I was happy because the residents were returning. It meant that they would weaken the Yin energy from apartment No. 304. However, I was also afraid that the Yang energy from the families could provoke the spirits living there, making them hostile.


    After considering things for a while, I called Lin Zhongcheng. I asked him to evacuate the residents. I wanted them to leave the ce for a while and return only after everything had truly settled.

 Chapter 208: The Red-Dressed Female Ghost

    Chapter 208: The Red-Dressed Female Ghost


    Lin Zhongcheng didnt sound pleased. Mr. Zhang, weve already closed the case. If you stir things up again, Im afraid it will create a disturbance.


    It was clear that Lin Zhongcheng didnt want us to do any further investigations.


    I could only agree with him No matter what I said, he wouldnt change his mind.


    The night was quiet. I sat by the balcony and looked at the lights outside.


    Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue were cooking dinner. Although the food smelled delicious, I didnt have any appetite.


    Li Mazi sat beside me and smoked to ease his worries. Why do you want to put your nose in this womans business?


    I could only force a smile. Since he couldnt understand the reason, it proved that Li Mazi didnt want anyone to take Chu Chus ce.


    After dinner, I brought them to the elevator. We took it and went to the third floor.


    An hour passed. It was now the time Ru Xue normally came home after work. It was also the time the red-dressed ghost left apartment No. 304.


    Lin Zhongcheng had given us the key to apartment No. 304, and he did not take it back. I unlocked the door and entered the apartment, but I didnt notice anything strange.


    We switched on the lights and checked every corner; it was all normal. Yet, I was a little bewildered because I smelled a pungent scent, simr to the smell of turd.


    This smell permeated the entire apartment. I checked around but couldnt find the source.


    The room was in order, but since some of the windows were open, there was ayer of thick dust. I cleaned the tea table in the living room and ced the dress on it. To trigger the spirit, I even smeared some eel blood on the clothes.


    Afterward was a long and boring wait.


    During the day, Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue seemed fine. They had fun and did not seem to mind the circumstances we were in. However, at night, when they had to face the ghost, they didnt dare to utter a word. They curled up on the sofa and gingerly gazed at the ancient dress.


    The room was dead silent, so silent that one could hear the sound of a needle falling to the ground. Soon, the people walking on the streets started to disperse, and dark clouds covered the moon. It was getting chilly


    Whoosh!


    A wind blew in from the kitchen and brought with it the horrible smell of turd. The wind made the dress fall to the ground. I jolted up and carefully watched the dress. Ru Xue almost screamed in fear, but Yin Xinyue covered her mouth.


    I took out the Universe Compass and looked at the hand of thepass. This item was an antique my grandpa had left me. He told me that if I used blood to stimte thepass, the hand of thepass could sense the location of ghosts and spirits.


    I cut the tip of my finger and smeared the blood on thepass.


    Thepass seemed to receive a powerful boost and started to spin quickly.


    As thepasss hand slowed down, it pointed at the dress.


    As expected, the red-clothed ghost was now attached to the ancient dress!


    As I waited for the dress to make the next move, the hand on the Universe Compass began to move slightly. It deviated from the ancient dress and eventually stopped at Ru Xue.


    My heart skipped a beat. Ru Xue was also very nervous. She looked at me and stuttered, Brother-inw, w-what does that mean?


    I waved my hand and motioned at Ru Xue to step aside a little bit.


    Ru Xue stepped to the side, but the Universe Compass didnt change its direction.


    I breathed out in relief. It seemed the spirit didnt want to harm Ru Xue.


    However, I was puzzled. What did thepass want to show? I walked in the direction of thepass and saw that the hand was pointing at the couch. Behind the couch was the refrigerator, and behind the refrigerator was the wall.


    Could it be that something was wrong with the fridge?


    I nced at Li Mazi and asked him to open the fridge.


    Li Mazi quickly opened the fridge. The fridge was stuffed with vegetables, meats, beverages, and other food. There was nothing strange about it.


    <em>What is the Universe Compass pointing at?</em>


    As I was thinking about this, the Universe Compass changed its direction again. It now pointed at the ancient dress.


    When I looked at the dress, I began to sweat. The clothes were now sitting upward. The empty garments were now filled as if someone invisible was wearing the clothes.


    One sleeve was on the couch while the other was ced on the tea table. From this posture, it seemed that the dress was about to stand up.


    Eventually, after several tries, the ancient dress stood up. After looking at the hollow sleeves, cor, and legs, my scalp went numb!


    Although I couldnt see who was wearing the ancient garments, I could recognize it was a young woman. She had a nice figure and curves in the right ces.


    Li Mazi silently picked up a fancy blue-and-white vase, ready to strike at any time. Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue were also getting ready to run.


    The ancient dress stood still for a short moment before heading toward the entrance; it floated away in its human form.


    A strange wind blew the door open, which allowed the dress to leave. I didnt hesitate and called out, Follow it!


    Then, I immediately ran after the clothes.


    Fortunately, there was no one on the third floor. Otherwise, they would be scared out of their wits.


    The moment the ancient dress came to the elevator, the doors opened. The dress immediately got it.


    Li Mazi was very keen on chasing after the dress and barge into the elevator. However, I stopped him. Do you want to be the third person to go missing?


    Li Mazi was furious. That spirit is such a bully. If I dont give it a lesson, I wont be able to quell my anger!


    Since Chu Chu had died due to an evil spirit, Li Mazi hated them.


    Now is not the time to lose control. Follow me.


    Since the lift had closed, we took the emergency staircases. When we reached the first floor, the elevator also stopped on the first floor. The ancient dress was still inside.


    I exhaled in relief and carefully watched the scene.


    When the ancient clothes got out of the elevator, I saw a shadow sneak into the lift. Needless to say, it was the ghost of the delivery guy.


    One left while the other returned.


    I didnt have time to care about the ghost of the delivery guy right now. I decided to follow the ancient dress.


    The dress floated around and moved on the streets. We followed closely behind it.


    It moved through the big streets then into the small alleys. It was leaving the urban area. Moreover, it only chose small, dark roads to travel on.


    The Universe Compass continuously pointed at the ancient dress; I knew the ghost was still there. Since the Universe Compass wasnt needed anymore, I put it away and focused on the dress.


    Eventually, the ancient dress reached a remote area. These were the suburbs, where many migrant workers mingled together. They crowded the ce and lived in bad conditions, forming a sharp contrast with the people living in the city.


    Why did the ghoste here?


    If it was the doing of an otherworldly item, it probably meant that the item was obsessed with something. I wanted to know what the obsession was about!

 Chapter 209: The Pigpen

    Chapter 209: The Pigpen


    To my surprise, the set of garments stopped at a pig farm. A horrible stench exuded from the pigpen; I realized that the pungent smell we had smelled today was actually pig dung.


    <em>Does it want to get into the pigpen?</em>


    As I had guessed, the ancient garments eventually flew into the pigpen. The moment the clothes entered the pigpen, the herd of pigs awoke and scattered in fright. Some of the pigs even tried to bite the ancient clothes.


    The ancient dress struggled hard, and I could vaguely hear the cry of a woman.


    I was dumbstruck. Although she was now a soul, she went through this inhuman torment every day. What kind of obsession did this ancient dress have? Why was it going this far?


    Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue were petrified. They anxiously watched the pigpen and kept asking me what was happening.


    I didnt know, either. It seemed the owner of this dress was tortured inhumanly when she was still alive.


    Hey! What are you doing there?! A sudden yell came through the darkness of the night, making me shiver.


    I turned my head to see the owner of the pig farm walk toward us. He was wearing a ragged, torn jacket. His hair was disheveled, and his eyes were bloodshot, perhaps because he didnt get much sleep.


    He held a shlight and didnt look pleased to see us.


    Li Mazi hurried to say, We didnt do anything. We just happened to pass by.


    Its thiste at night and you were passing by my pigpen? I think youre here to steal my pigs! The farm owner snorted.


    Steal your pigs? I shook my head and said, Take a better look, do we look like pig thieves?


    The farm owner sneered and said, You can see a persons clothing but not their heart. Only God knows what you were thinking of doing.


    Then, he rushed to calm his pigs down.


    I was worried that the farm owner would get a heart attack if he saw the ancient dress floating around, so I wanted to stop him. However, he was too persistent; both Li Mazi and I couldnt hold him back. Instead, he became even more convinced that we were there to steal his pigs.


    Eventually, he saw the ancient dress floating in the pigpen, which shocked him. W-What the heck is going on? How did ite back?


    Hisst sentence surprised me. He actually recognized the dress. Have you seen these clothes before?


    No, I haven''t. The farm owner waved his hands in denial, wishing he could dismiss us immediately.


    I knew he was hiding something. I stood in ce and said coldly, Maybe you can hide the truth from the living, but can you hide it from the undead? This is the work of an otherworldly item, and were here to deal with it. If you dont tell us the actual situation, you wont have a good end.


    However, the farm owner wasnt intimidated. Instead, he became even more hostile.


    He grabbed a stick and tried to hit us. I was worried that he could hurt Ru Xue and the others, so we decided to leave.


    Ru Xue looked at me in fright. What should we do now?


    I sighed and said, We can only wait for him to contact us on his own, and I think he will. Lets go.


    Then, I used eel blood to leave my phone number on the gate of the pigpen.


    What are you doing? asked Li Mazi.


    Eel blood contains Yin energy, and since the otherworldly item is at his ce, the Yin energy of the whole farm will be very high. Hopefully, hell be scared by the strange phenomena and will call us for help! I said.


    It has already started, said Li Mazi as he looked at the farm.


    A set of ancient clothes had appeared in his pigpen, and the horde of pigs was scared by it.


    Soon after, the farm owner called his family members out to calm down the pigs. However, with the otherworldly item in the pigpen, how could the pigs not panic? Things were starting to get noisy


    We didnt leave and stayed near the farm, ready to take action.


    While we were waiting to see how the situation would unfold, we spotted a shadow swaying in a corner outside the farm. The person paced back and forth but didnt go in.


    I muttered to Li Mazi, Look at that guy.


    Li Mazi nced over and frowned. Whos that? Why do I feel like he''s somewhat odd?


    You stay here. Im going there to check. I told Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi hesitated for a bit then nodded.


    I got up and ran toward the shadow that lingered in the corner.


    As I came closer to him, the shadows image became clearer. When I finally saw him, cold sweat rolled down my forehead.


    The mans limbs were twisted at an unimaginable angle. His eyes were scooped out, and his tongue had been cut off. He looked incredibly scary


    <em>Its the express delivery guy! But wasnt his body taken away by the cops? He should be in the morgue now. How did he get here?!</em>


    He suddenly turned his head towards me, gazing at me with his hollow, bleeding eyes. Blood still gushed from the corners of his mouth as his mouth opened and closed. It was as if he was talking to me. However, since his tongue had been cut off, he could only make some unclear sounds.


    After taking a deep breath, I said, Tell me, why are you doing this? Why did you follow us here?


    He didnt answer and just limped toward the farm owners house. Then, he gently knocked on the wooden door.


    The farm owner was annoyed, thinking that it was us again.


    He was furious and scolded, Why are you not leaving? I dont need your help. If youre still sticking around, Im gonna call the police!


    D ad The delivery guy said weakly.


    The entire house went dead silent. After a long time, we heard the farm owners reply. Son


    Then, he opened the door.


    <em>The delivery guy is the farm owners son? What the heck is happening?</em>


    When the door was wide open, the farm owner saw the delivery guy clearly. He was so surprised that tumbled down. Son, y-youre back. Youre finally back!


    The other family members overheard the conversation and rushed out. After seeing the guest at the door, they ran toward him like crazy and wanted to hug him.


    From their sobbing voice, I could guess that they hadnt seen the express delivery guy for a long time. They didnt even know that the person standing before them had died already.


    I called out to Li Mazi. Go stop them!

 Chapter 210: Lady Qi, the Human Swine

    Chapter 210: Lady Qi, the Human Swine


    Li Mazi and I immediately stormed forward to stop the farm owners family members. The woman had been yearning for her young son so much that she went crazy. She screamed and bit us. However, Li Mazi and I were both stronger than her, so we were able to subdue her with ease.


    The express delivery guy wobbled toward the pigsty.


    Son, son, where are you going? Mothers here! The old woman cried her heart out. Why are you stopping me? You bastards!


    Hes a dead man, I said. He cant even understand what youre saying!


    Youre talking nonsense! The old woman yelled, My sons alive! We dont need you to put your nose in our familys business. Get lost!


    Whats wrong with you? Were here to help! Cant you be a little grateful?


    Who asked for your help?! Get off of me! Son, your mother is here! The old woman screamed louder.


    Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue were also annoyed by the woman.


    In the meantime, the express delivery guy had reached the pigpen. He saw the door and was about to enter when the farm owner charged over.


    He hugged his sons corpse and wept. Son, youre my life! You cant die. If you are gone, then I wont be able to live any longer!


    Then, he knelt by the pigpen and cursed, You slut! If you want to take revenge, pour it on me! Let go of my son! Im going to freaking kill you! Im going to kill you!


    While he was cursing, his son seized the opportunity to enter the pigpen. The horde of pigs that were surrounding the ancient dress now rushed toward him and started to gnaw on him. Although his body was already stiff, blood and fluids still sshed everywhere.


    The delivery guy didnt mind the pigs and headed toward the ancient clothing. Despite all the dung and blood on his body, he eventually slipped into the garments theny still on the ground.


    The pigs crazily nibbled and devoured his body. These types of animals didnt usually eat meat, but the pigs there were extremely ferocious. They soon tore the corpse apart and exposed his white bones, giving birth to a ghastly scene.


    The old woman fainted in grief while the farm owner was petrified. He stared for a while then went crazy. He stormed into the house and returned with a butcher knife. He jumped into the pigsty and wielded his knife around crazily. Ill kill you all... Ill kill you all!


    Three or four pigs were shed dead. Blood sshed around, dyeing the pigpen red; the scene looked terrifying.


    The farm owner was devastated andy in the pool of blood as he gazed at his sons remains.


    The horrible stench born from thebination of blood, pig urine, and dung made it difficult for us to breathe.


    After confirming that she wasnt going to kill herself, Li Mazi exhaled and put the old woman down. This is karma. It seems this family is hiding something.


    We waited there until dawn. By that time, the family had epted the heartbreaking truth.


    When the farm owner got a hold of himself, I asked him, What happened? If you tell us, perhaps we cane up with a solution to help your son ascend. Otherwise, Im afraid he would be pestered by the otherworldly item forever. He wont be able to reincarnate.


    Then, the farm owner told us the whole story.


    Things had to be tracked back to ten years ago.


    Ten years ago, although he already had some savings, the farm owner was just a vendor that sold flowers by the street.


    Eventually, he bought the piece ofnd where we were standing to do some farming during his leisure time, which could help him earn more money for his family.


    When he dug up the soil to make a pigpen, he reached an ancient foundation; the foundation was made of stones stacked onto each other. He also dug up a lot of pig bones, along with a small wooden box.


    At the time, the family came to the conclusion that the ce was once a pigpen. However, they did not understand why would anyone bury a small wooden box inside a pigpen.


    When the farm owner opened the wooden box, he found a red-and-white set of ancient garments inside.


    Needless to say, the ancient clothes they saw at the time were the clothes we were now watching.


    When they found the clothes, there were a lot of bloodstains above; the old woman had to use a lot of bleach to wash them away.


    They knew that the ancient clothes were valuable. However, they didnt dare to sell them since they had heard that all the unearthed items belonged to the country.


    Their son happened to work for an express deliverypany that did online activities. The farm owner asked his son to sneakily hold an online auction for the clothes.


    Soon after, the son found a buyer. The buyer was the mistress of a coalpany boss. Since the woman heard that ancient dresses could help increase ones charm, she wanted to buy one.


    But then, something happened. The delivery guy met up with the woman, and they had an affair. In the end, the woman became pregnant.


    The woman began to pester him. She wanted him to make money and take her away from the hands of the coalpany boss. However, the boss had a lot of influence, and the poor delivery guy could do nothing about it.


    The express delivery guy felt a tremendous amount of pressure and finally cracked. His murderous intent arose, and he hanged the woman in her apartment, discreetly moving her body away after the deed.


    He thought that no one, not even a ghost, would discover what he had done. However, several dayster, he discovered that things werent going to be that simple.


    At first, the express delivery guy often heard knocking sounds on his door. However, when he went to check, there was no one outside. Moreover, even in broad daylight, he would often smell a horrible stench in his apartment.


    Later on, he began to dream of the mistress. In his dreams, her face was pale as her body hung from the ceiling, swaying left and right while wearing that red-and-white ancient dress. The delivery guy was afraid. He knew that the mistress had returned to take revenge.


    In fright, he begged his parents to find someone to save his life.


    They eventually found a skilled geomancer. After a mere nce, the geomancer concluded that the houses geomancy was terrible. The ce was cursed, and they would have to move out.


    However, this piece ofnd had cost them several decades of savings. They werent willing to leave, so they begged the geomancer for an alternative. The geomancer told them that helping them was no different from going against the will of the heavens. Although karma wouldnte after them today, in the future, it woulde and pour on their heads.


    At the time, they didnt really think about it much. As long as they could save their sons life, they didnt consider anything else.


    The geomancer eventually asked them to build a pigsty right above the ancient foundation they had dug up. They were told to keep some female pigs there to subdue the negative energy; that was how they could force the evil soul out.


    The n worked. The same day they built the pigpen, something happened. When night came, the horde of pigs became crazy. They ran and bumped around disorderly. The people in the house could hear a woman crying and screaming in pain.


    However, since the geomancer had ordered them to stay inside, they didnt go out to check. After dawn, the noises finally stopped. They then went out to check the pigpen.


    They all gawked in shock at the sight. A set of ancient clothes was found in the pigsty. There were bloodstains here and there, and even some pieces of skin.


    Moreover, all of the pigs seemed well-fed, and one of them still had a human ear hanging from the corner of its mouth.


    They all knew thatst night, the corpse of the mistress hade to their house and was cleaned up by the pigs.


    They were scared out of their wits because they were worried that the womans resentful soul woulde and harm themter. However, after that night, their house was calm and quiet. No ghost hade to trouble them.


    The family heaved a sigh of relief and resumed their daily activities.


    However, the calmness didntst for a long time. One yearter, strange things started to happen in their house again.


    The farm owner often heard people weep. The horde of pigs in his pigsty had be strangely fierce; they grunted and roared continually.


    The farm owner went to check and was almost scared to death. His son, the express delivery guy, was wearing a set of ancient clothes as he stood inside the pigpen gracefully dancing. The cries the farm owner heard had actuallye from his son.


    No matter how many joss sticks he burned, how many time he pounded his head, or how hard he tried to wake his son up, nothing worked. Feeling helpless, he looked for the geomancer again.


    However, when they arrived at the geomancers ce, they found out that the master had passed away a few days ago. Before passing away, he left his disciple a message for the farm owner. The message was, Everything in this world has a cause and an effect. You reap what you sow.


    Karma was getting back at them, and it was even scarier than they had thought. Not only was the geomancer dead, but even their young son went missing with the ancient clothes a few dayster.


    He went missing for nine whole years. During this period of time, the farm owner and his wife never gave up on searching for their son. However, it seemed like he had disappeared into thin air. No one had ever seen him ever since.


    Their pigsty never stayed calm. Every night, the pigs would create horrible noises andmotions. During these nine years, the farm owner never had a peaceful day.


    Then, several days ago, his horde of pigs began to create even loudermotions. His sons return had triggered a series of supernatural events.


    I took a deep breath. I didnt expect that this set of ancient garments was rted to such a bloody murder.


    However, there were so many simr homicide cases in this world. If each victim became a resentful soul and returned to take revenge, how chaotic would the world be?


    I guessed the reason the mistresss ghost could return to take revenge was that set of ancient clothes. It was an otherworldly item, after all. No matter who owned it, when someone died, their soul would be affected by the otherworldly item if they were close to it.


    The mistresss soul was likely affected by the otherworldly item, which allowed her to stay in this world and take revenge.


    However, what was the story of this otherworldly item?


    Later on, I surfed the inte and searched for a historical figure that matched these ancient clothes.


    From the style and texture of this set of ancient garments, it should be an item from thete Qin and early Han Dynasty era. Back then, the was a famous woman whose death was simr to the express delivery guys.


    That person was Lady Qi!


    Liu Bang had founded the Han Dynasty, bing its first Emperor. He loved and cherished the beautiful Lady Qi, and he almost deposed the Crown Prince and made Lady Qis son the future emperor.


    This made Liu Bangs main wife, Empress Lu Zhi, discontent.


    After his death, Lu Zhi decided to take revenge on Lady Qi. She chopped off Lady Qis arms and legs, scooped out her eyes, cut her tongue off, and made her deaf. She then threw the poor woman into a pigsty and made her live with the horde of pigs. Once a beautiful woman, she was now called human swine.


    There was no doubt that the ancient pigsty found on the farm ownersnd was the same pigsty where Lady Qi had been imprisoned. As she was forced to live in such horrible conditions, it didnt take her long to die. After Lady Qi passed away, her followers interred the pigsty. Since her remains were gone, they had no choice but to bury only her clothes, setting up an empty tomb for her.


    Time flew quickly, and more than one thousand years passed. Lady Qi, who had been brutally tortured before her death, was full of resentment and couldnt find peace. Her soul attached itself to the ancient clothes and continue to relive her tormented life


    ording to the records, after Lu Zhi turned Lady Qi into a human swine, she asked her son, the young Crown Prince, to take a look at her. This was to strengthen their position in the royal family. However, the gruesome image shocked the young Crown Prince so much that he lost his mind. He died when he was only twenty-four years old, and some people suspected that it was because Lady Qi had haunted him.


    This was karma!


    Be it a hundred or a thousand years, one could never escape fate!

 Chapter 211: The Odd Opium Pipe

    Chapter 211: The Odd Opium Pipe


    From that day onward, there was no paranormal activity in Ru Xues apartment building. The girl was very grateful.


    The only regret was that we were unable to get Li Mazi and Ru Xue together.


    I initially thought that the duos love story had ended here. However, one day, Yin Xinyue told me that Li Mazi and Ru Xue were now seeing each other.


    I was puzzled. Those two constantly fought whenever they were around each other, how could they be together?


    Whats going on? I couldnt help but ask.


    Yin Xinyue simply smiled. See for yourself. Li Mazising.


    Li Mazi showed up shortly after, and Ru Xue was with him. She had a small notebook and a pen in her hands. She seemed to be deep in thought, almost hitting the door frame.


    I smiled at Yin Xinyue, who sat across from me. It appeared as if these two did have something going on.


    Li Mazi was exasperated. Yin Xinyue, can you please take this woman away from me? Is this some n to annoy me to death? Shes like a bum beetle that follows me around all day. I cant even go to the bathroom in peace.


    Yin Xinyue smiled and said nothing. She looked at Ru Xue. Ru Xue, how is your scripting along?


    Oh, its still somewhatcking. Right, little Mazi, you said that you had nted many peach trees for Chu Chu. Does she know about it?


    How would I know that? Does asking me all these questions make you happy? Im not an encyclopedia! Sooner orter, youre going to make me die of annoyance. Yin Xinyue, hurry, take her away, please, Li Mazi begged with a gloomy face.


    Now I finally understood what was going on. After Ru Xue heard about Li Mazi and Chu Chus love story, her interest was piqued. Since she just so happened to be writing a script about a human and ghosts love story, she now pestered Li Mazi every day to find some sparks of inspiration.


    Li Mazi was annoyed to death but couldnt get rid of her no matter how hard he tried.


    Seeing the annoyed Li Mazi and the serious-looking Ru Xue, I couldnt help but smile. They looked like a quarrelsome but loving couple.


    While we were enjoying this joyous scene, the door of my antique shop was pushed open, and a bony, listless man walked in.


    The first thing I noticed about him wasnt his thin body, but the strong smell of smoke exuding from his body.


    His eyes were sunken, and his teeth yellowed. I specifically observed his fingertips. They were yellowed with some specks of dust. It seemed that he was a hard-core smoker.


    All of us settled down, gazing at the man with rapt eyes. Do you need help?


    Whos the boss? His voice was ginger as he asked.


    I am, I answered.


    I see. He lifted his head to throw me a nce, smiling embarrassedly, Oh Nevermind, I came to the wrong shop.


    Then, appearing flustered, he hastily ran away.


    I was perplexed, staring at his fleeing figure.


    <em>Is there something wrong with this fellow? My antique shop is located in the most remote area of this old street. How could he havee here by mistake?</em>


    We didnt dwell on the man for long, opting to forgo cooking and buying some food for a simple dinner. Eventually, Yin Xinyue and the others left.


    While I was about to clean the table, my shops door was pushed open again. I went to check, and it was the heavy smoker again!


    His shifty eyes observed the shop. After confirming that no one was here except for me, he lowered his voice, greeting me, Hello.


    I furrowed my brows. Why are you looking for me?


    I just wanted to ask if you collected antiques here, the smoker asked.


    Of course, I didnt buy ordinary antiques. I only collected otherworldly items. Compared to my vast knowledge regarding these special items, my expertise with normal antiques was next to zero. Moreover, it wasnt easy to evaluate ordinary antiques, and the money Id made from them couldnt evenpare to the profit that otherworldly items fetched me.


    It depends. I want to see the antique first, I inquired.


    He cautiously said, Its a treasure!


    Oh, is it? I was interested, If you dont mind, can you show me?


    Oh Uh-oh, I need to reconsider this one more time, the man sighed and turned around, leaving again.


    Seeing his figure leaving, I was speechless. That fellow must have had some problem. If he couldnt let go of his antique, why did he evene to me?


    I ignored him and just continued with my business.


    However, on the evening of the next day, the man unexpectedly returned. This time, he came with something on his back. It was an old, ragged cloth, which contained his treasure, I supposed.


    Youre here again, eh? I nced at him, annoyed. What do you want today?


    I know your shop collects items that shouldnt see the light. You dont need to hide it from me, he said.


    I was speechless. I was running a legitimate business, and even if it was otherworldly item trading, it was a respectable profession. I had never hidden my business. Yet, this guy made me sound so dishonest.


    If you have something to say, just spit it out. If you dont, please leave. I waved my hand, somewhat annoyed.


    I wanted to ask you something. How much would that type of item cost? the heavy smoker asked.


    It depends on the item itself, I said. Do you think gold and scrap iron garner the same price?


    Sir, could you check this item of mine and tell me how much its worth? He suddenly held up the cloth, impolitely charging into the room in the back of my shop.


    I shook my head with a wry smile. <em>If he dares to show me some garbage, Ill kick him out.</em>


    The heavy smoker hugged the cloth tight to his chest. He threw a stealthy nce towards my room, asking, Theres no one else in your house, right?


    Looking at his cautious mannerisms, I was curious about what was inside that cloth.


    Im alone, I answered.


    He nodded then gently ced the cloth on the table, gently unfurling it. His hands were shaking anxiously.


    I didnt know how precious the thing inside the cloth was, but it was wrapped in threeyers. Eventually, the item was revealed.


    It was an old-fashioned opium pipe!


    My first impression was that this opium pipe was big, very big. It was almost three timesrger and longer than an ordinary opium pipe. A small sachet sat alongside it to store tobo leaves.


    The opium pipe was very dazzling, and I wondered if it was gold-ted. The surface had exquisite carved patterns, and if one looked carefully, they would notice that the designs were very realistic. From its appearance, the opium pipe seemed to be a precious antique.


    Instinctively, I felt a desire to reach and touch the pipe. The smoker patted my hand away, quickly picked up the pipe, and hugged it against his chest. His actions made me think that he treasured the item more than his father.


    I red at him. Do you want to sell it or not?


    Even if I do, you dont need to touch it. What if you ruin it?


    I felt both amused and angry. <em>How could a simple touch ruin it? That pipe isnt your wife. Nothing will happen even if I touch it!</em>


    Just give me a price. How much is it worth? asked the heavy smoker.


    I dont know, I responded. I havent had a close look yet. How can I give you a price if I havent properly assessed it?


    Looking at his tattered clothes and thin body, I assumed he was broke. If I named him a price of several thousand renminbi, he would probably be extraordinarily happy.


    After a quick nce, I deduced that the opium pipe was an antique. Moreover, from the exquisite,plicated carved patterns, it should be something that once belonged to royalty. I could sell it for around a hundred thousand renminbi.


    However, that was assuming it was just an ordinary antique. If it were an otherworldly item as this man had stated, the price would be vastly different.


    I need to think one more time, he said, then left hastily.


    I was furious, but there was nothing I could do; I read the sacred text of Daoism to calm myself. Then, Iid on my chair and watched the starry sky, waiting for customers.


    Unfortunately, no one else dropped in. However, it was expected as there werent many otherworldly items in the world.


    Several dayster, just when I had almost forgotten about him, the heavy smoker came to my shop again.


    This time, just the sight of him made me angry. I waved my hand and said, Why are you here? I dont want your item. I wont buy it even if its cheap.


    He said hurriedly, Sir, dont be angry. Im not here to sell the opium pipe.


    I noticed that he didnt bring his opium pipe along this time.


    So, why are you here? I was asked in puzzlement.


    I wanted to ask you one thing, he said, Do you think a ghost can smoke? How can we make a ghost smoke?

 Chapter 212: Ghost Sending Money

    Chapter 212: Ghost Sending Money


    <em>Is this guy making fun of me?</em>


    <em>What kind of question is this? How to make a ghost smoke? Smoke your sister!</em>


    I shook my head, I dont know. Im just an antique salesman. Youve got the wrong guy.


    Sir, why are you being dishonest? I know everything about you, so its pointless to hide things. Just tell me the truth, okay? Im not asking for free; I have money.


    Then, the heavy smoker took out arge stack of cash. All of them were five or ten-renminbi notes. I estimated that it was around one or two hundred renminbi in total.


    I was amused. I already said that I dont know. Can you stop bothering me? Otherwise, I''ll have to get someone to kick you out.


    Ill leave if you answer my question. The heavy smoker shamelessly sat down next to me.


    I was speechless and could only reluctantly tell him, For a ghost to smoke, theyd have to die for that very same reason. For example, the Chinese smokers who died during the Opium War died because of smoking. After dying and bing ghosts, their addiction did not end, and they continued to look for opium they could smoke. Are you satisfied now? If you are, leave.


    The manughed and threw the pocket change on the table before leaving hurriedly.


    I called after the beggar-like fellow, Take your money with you!


    However, the man was already far and couldnt hear me.


    Seeing the banknotes on the table, I didnt know whether tough or cry. I was somewhat amused by that man.


    And yet, I never would have expected that my casual response would bring me so much troubleter.


    It happened one month after that night. By then, I hadpletely forgotten about the heavy smoker.


    Around one monthter, during business hours, a shadow appeared outside my antique shop, hiding in the corner. It seemed that they didnt want to enter.


    Puzzled, I asked them, Who is it? Are you looking for me?


    The other party spoke, and I quickly realized that it was the heavy smoker. Im here to thank you.


    Thank me? I was clueless, staring at him. Why do you need to thank me?


    No reason. Im just here to thank you. Tomorrow, Ill send my son to bring you some money.


    Then, he left. I wasnt sure if I was seeing things, but I thought I saw the man walking strangely. In fact, it looked like he was floating, and he didnt even raise his feet while passing over the doorstep.


    I was bewildered. <em>Whats happening? Did he just pass through the doorstep?</em>


    I didnt waste any more time and hurried to check.


    The dim lighting from the light poles faintly illuminated the antique street. The cold wind was blowing, but the shadow of the heavy smoker was nowhere to be seen.


    <em>Strange, how was he so quick?</em>


    I felt that there was something wrong about that man. When I got a hold of myself, I felt goosebumps on my skin. I rubbed my arms to calm down and hurried back to my antique shop.


    For the entire night, I felt very ufortable. I knew that the cause of my difort was the heavy smoker. Once again, I had to read the sacred text of Daoism to calm down.


    By three or four in the morning, I knew that there would be no business today. As I still felt restless, I decided to close the shop and go to bed.


    I didnt know how long I had slept, but I was awakened by someone knocking on my door, which infuriated me. People who knew me my daily schedule would never disturb me early in the morning unless it was something important. Who was it at this hour?


    At first, I decided not to give a damn. However, the person at the door didnt relent, continuously pounding on my door. Helpless, I got up from my bed and went to open the door.


    Standing outside was a young man. It was a boy with a mohawk dyed in green that wore ragged clothes with several holes. I didnt know if his dressing style was some sort oftest fashion.


    Judging from his appearance, he seemed to have stayed up all night. The dark circles under his eyes were prominent, and he had specks of dirt on his face. It made me wonder when hest washed his face.


    Who are you? I growled.


    Youre the boss here? The young man eyed me from head to toe as he spoke.


    I am, I grunted.


    Heres your money. Hezily took out a bunch of small banknotes from his pocket, shoving them into my hand. Then, he turned around and left.


    I was enraged and grabbed him. Who are you? Why are you doing this? Go give this money to some beggar!


    Im warning you. Dont grab my clothes. The young man sounded irate. My father asked me toe and give you this money. If you dont want it, you can throw it in the trash. Dont bother me, Im going to the inte cafe to y League of Legends.


    Then, he yanked his shirt out of my hand, leaving angrily.


    I suddenly remembered the heavy smoker. Yesterday, he told me that he would send his son to give me money. If I wasnt mistaken, that young man should be the heavy smokers son...


    I was puzzled. Why did the smoker give me money? He didnt owe me anything.


    Not knowing what to do, I decided to put the money under a stack of books.


    I didnt want to owe people anything. If I took someones money, karma would be formed, and the consequences would be unpredictable. To avoid any problem, it was better not to ept this money. If I could return it, it would be for the best.


    Those days had been pretty eventless, with the only ripple of water being the smoker and his son.


    Li Mazi and Ru Xue would often see each other, with Li Mazi getting annoyed to death each time. Ru Xue constantly followed him with a serious face, resembling his shadow.


    Sometimes, when he couldnt stand her anymore, he woulde to my shop toin, drinking until he cked out. And, from the way Ru Xue followed Li Mazi around, I could tell that she somewhat liked him


    One day, Li Mazi was at my house, and Ru Xue was also with us, asking me about the otherworldly items we had encountered. Li Mazi and I recalled our memories while drinking. When we remembered Chu Chu and the old shaman, Li Mazi became greatly emotional. He lifted the wine bottle, gulping it down at once while crying.


    Ru Xueforted him, The deceased cante back to life. Moreover, Chu Chu wouldnt want to see you torturing yourself like this.


    While Li Mazi was dealing with his emotions, a figure suddenly staggered into my shop. They seemed pale and tired, had bloodshot eyes, and a listless appearance. A thick smell of smoke exuded from their body, which made Ru Xue cough a few times.


    It was the son of the heavy smoker, but he looked much thinner than before. He was like a dried stick now. What caught my attention was that thest time he visited, he didnt have that thick smell of smoke. I didnt know what happened to him, but now he was radiating that disgusting stench from all over his body.


    However, unless one had smoked for ten or twenty years, they should not have such a smell on their body. How could he get this thick smell after just one month?


    Why have youe here again? I asked impatiently.


    Sir, I want to ask you something. The man shivered as he looked at me. Before continuing, his eyes unconsciously stopped on Li Mazi and Xu Rue. Is there a more private ce inside where we could talk?


    I considered the possibility that something might have happened to the young man, so I nodded and took him to the back room.


    As soon as he got into the room, he immediately said, Sir, I have a question. Can ghosts smoke?


    I was bewildered. It sounded so familiar, and I thought that I had heard this question before. I racked my brain; shortly after, I remembered that the heavy smoker had asked me the same thing.


    This pair of father and son was really alike.


    I then asked, They can. What happened?


    As soon as I said that, he squatted, clutching his head. Oh gosh, its over. Sir, you know what? I bumped into some ghost!


    A ghost? Ru Xue pushed the bedroom door open. It turned out she was eavesdropping outside. Did you encounter a ghost? Tell me, tell me!


    The young man was worried, looking at Ru Xue. Who is this?


    I immediately waved my hand. Its okay. Just tell me.


    The young man was cautious, and he didnt want to talk. Ru Xue got angry and made an excuse. Im his assistant. Im here to help him!


    Ru Xue and Li Mazi were really simr. Previously, whenever Li Mazi was in a simr situation, he would also say that he was my assistant.


    Okay then. The man finally decided to talk. Every night, my father wille home and smoke. He smokes a lot. I got this smoky smell from him. Even if I shower three times a day, I cant get rid of it.


    I burst out intoughter. Well, your father is a heavy smoker, isnt he? In that case, you should take him to some rehab center.


    This is no joking matter. My father is dead. How could a rehab center manage a ghost? The young man had a wry smile.


    What? I was speechless. You said your father is dead? When did this happen?


    More than one month ago, he said.


    <em>Impossible!</em> My first reaction to the mans statement was that it wasnt possible. I saw the heavy smoker a few days ago. He came to thank me and promised that he would send his son to give me money. How could he have died more than one month ago?


    I asked him again, but the young man confirmed that his father had been gone for more than one month.


    I was stunned. If the young man wasnt lying, the heavy smoker I saw a few days ago was a ghost.


    What bad luck!


    Anyway, him dying wasnt the problem. The problem was that he hade to thank me and give me money. I was certain that there was a story behind this, but I wasnt prepared to tackle it. It was better if I didnt know about it.


    So, I told the young man, As your father has passed away, you should burn some paper money for him! In addition, you should burn his opium pipe altogether to prevent him from returning to smoke.


    The young man got on his knees in front of me. Mister Zhang, you must save me! You cant just stand by and let me die! Youre the reason my father returns every night to smoke! You cant just send me away like this...


    I was enraged. <em>How did this be my responsibility now? Is he trying to put the me on me?</em>


    I immediately snapped, It has nothing to do with me. If you make a mess here, Im going to call the police.


    However, the guy refused to leave no matter what.


    Like father like son. Previously, his dead father had also refused to leave my ce unless I helped him, and now it was his sons turn!

 Chapter 213: The Heavy Smoker

    Chapter 213: The Heavy Smoker


    I was infuriated. I took out my phone and prepared to call the police.


    However, Ru Xue snatched my phone, reprimanding me, What are you doing! How can you not help a person in need? His fathers death is rted to you in some way. Li Mazi often talks to me about karma. If your actions caused someones death, karma would be born. If this karma isnt dealt with, it will keep weighing down on you. The longer you ignore it, the heavier it will be. It wille for you eventually, and when that happens, you will die.


    I shot Ru Xue an angry look. It was easy for her to talk. Also, did she think that I didnt know what her true goals were? Simply put, she wanted to widen her horizons and observe how I dealt with otherworldly items to find some inspiration for her script.


    For just a script, this woman wanted to push me into a pit of fire. She was really bold.


    Right, right. This younger sister is correct. The young man nodded repeatedly.


    Knock it off, what younger sister? Do you think youre older than me? Ru Xue scoffed at him.


    All right, big sister, Ill listen to you. Help me, please!


    Good. Anyway, big sister is not a cold-hearted person. I wont sit on my hands when I see someone in need. Even if I die in the process, I wont regret it. Im not like someone who pretends to be great and righteous but is actually crueler than anybody else


    <em>Whats going on? How did I suddenly be a cruel person?!</em>


    Ru Xue was extroverted and very curious. If I ignored this case, she would definitely start meddling and bring trouble to herself.


    As I was counting on her to cheer Li Mazi up, I had to agree. All right, Ill help you. However, after everythings done, I will take that opium pipe.


    The young man didnt know the value of the item. He didnt hesitate and agreed. Okay, the opium pipe will be yours.


    I nodded. Good, lets go. We should go to your house and check the ce.


    Li Mazi was dead drunk. He grabbed me and refused to let go, asking me to drink with him while sobbing. I was worried about him, so I asked Ru Xue to stay and take care of him.


    Although Ru Xue was craving to join me and widen her horizons, she did care about Li Mazi. She hesitated for a while but still agreed to stay.


    I took the young man to the car. While we were on the way, I asked him to tell me about his fathers death in detail.


    He then told me the story.


    The old smoker had been addicted to smoking since he was very young. He had been smoking for around sixty years. Due to his smoking habit, his body always reeked of smoke, and he even had some lung disease. His wife also left him because of his smoking habit.


    The old smoker didnt have a stable job. He usually worked as a hired thug, beating up people for money. And most of his money was used to buy tobo leaves.


    The young man said that his father didnt use to smoke that much at first. He would smoke around a pack a day, but to save money, he started to use the old opium pipe passed down in their family.


    Ever since that day, the old smoker seemed to be cursed. He couldnt stay away from the opium pipe, and he didnt even leave the house anymore. He could skip meals, but he couldnt skip puffing his pipe. Not only he failed to save money, but he also spent the little savings he had on smoking.


    Due to his smoking addiction, he didnt have money for his sons schooling, either. Moreover, being affected by his fathers lifestyle, the young man decided to drop out of school and mingled with a gang of thugs. During the day, they would collect protection fees. At night, they would immerse themselves in ying games online.


    He rarely came home, returning roughly once a week.


    One day, he came back and found the house close and the lights off. The young man was puzzled. His father would smoke a lot during this time of the day. Why didnt he smoke that day?


    When he entered the living room, he felt something was off. The room was filled with smoke, and the smell of something burning blew in his face.


    He tried to find the source of the strange smell. Soon, he found that it wasing from his fathers bedroom.


    He went to open his fathers bedroom, and in the next moment, he was frightened.


    A dark, charred figure was lying on the rocking chair inside the bedroom. He guessed it was a person because he could reluctantly distinguish the arms and legs.


    Mice and snakes were crawling and gnawing on that persons body, biting off the skin on his face and revealing the red flesh underneath. The purge fluid from the body puddled the floor.


    The man still held a fuming opium pipe in his hands. The fire that had burned him muste from the sparks of the pipe.


    Luckily, the me wasnt strong enough to burn him to ashes and only burned his skin.


    The young man was devastated. After all, his father was his only family member. As he didnt have much money, he casually buried his father and asked a Daoist priest to help his fathers soul ascend. He also buried the opium pipe with his father.


    The young man was really sad and didnt leave his house for a while. He regretted not being home; his father wouldnt have died if he had been there.


    However, at night, strange things happened.


    While the young man was sleeping in the bedroom, he was awakened by the smell of smoke. Moreover, this smoke smelled fresh.


    The young man felt strange. After his father was gone, the smoke smell in the house had already dispersed. So, what was happening?


    Eventually, he got up from his bed and tiptoed out of the room. Sure enough, he discovered something strange.


    In his fathers bedroom, a familiar opium pipey quietly on the rocking chair. Wisps of smoke arose and twirled from it. It almost felt as if there was a man sitting in the chair.


    The young man was petrified. He had buried this pipe in his fathers grave, so how could it show up here? He suspected that his father might havee back.


    Although he loved his father, he was still frightened by his ghost suddenlying back. He hurried to burn some joss sticks and bowed in front of his fathers portrait. As the smoke from the opium pipe faded out, he exhaled in relief. He knew his father had gone.


    However, after midnight, he had a strange dream. He saw his father, whose body was entirely charred. While smoking, his father told him to go to my antique shop and give me 150 renminbi, which was mymission. He also said that he put the money locked in his drawer.


    After the young man woke up, he didnt take it seriously as he thought it was just a strange dream.


    However, as he was curious, he picked his fathers locked drawer. As soon as he saw the money inside, he was scared again. There was a small amount of money in the drawer. He counted and found 150 renminbi. He now knew that his father had actually returnedst night. He didnt dare to postpone his fathers request. He immediately delivered the money.


    However, the situation didnt turn better. Almost every night, the young man would be woken up by the smell of smoke. When he got up, he would see the fuming opium pipe lying on the rocking chair, just as if his father was there.


    Although he had buried the opium pipe back to his fathers grave several times, it returned to the house every time.


    During this period of time, his father had also shown up in his dream many times. He told his son that it was me who told him that if someone died of smoking, his ghost could keep puffing. That was why the young man said that his fathers death was rted to me.


    Due to the passive smoking, the young man had also be somewhat addicted. He couldnt control himself and used the opium pipe to smoke a few times.


    It was for this reason that his body quickly deteriorated. Now, he was bony and pale, which made him look more and more like histe father.


    He was afraid that he would end up like him, so he tried his best to control himself despite being addicted.


    He resisted until today. But now, he felt he couldnt hold it anymore as he felt very ufortable whenever he skipped smoking for a while.


    After concluding the story, the young man took out a cigarette, shakily lit it and puffed, his face satisfied.


    I snatched the cigarette out of his mouth. You know youll die and you still dare to smoke!


    His face paled, his body shivering harder. I-I cant control myself.


    Put up with it! I grunted. Youre a man, and if you cant even control yourself, how are you going to build a lifeter?

 Chapter 214: Celestial Spirit Great Formation

    Chapter 214: Celestial Spirit Great Formation


    Actually, I pitied the young man. He had grown up in a bad environment since he was young, and now, even his only family member had left him. I supposed he didnt even know how a normal man of his age should live in the world out there. His worldview was distorted, and no one had shown him the right way. I felt like giving him a quick civic lesson to fix his distorted worldview.


    Anyway, the young man shivered and yawned continuously, his nasal fluid and tears rolling down his face. I cant control myself. I feel very bad


    I looked at his appearance and was scared. <em>Is this tobo addiction? His reaction isnt different from that of a drug addict!</em>


    I reminded him to stay in control, but he eventually failed. He tried to snatch the cigarette from me and almost attacked me. Left with no choice, I threw him the cigarette back and let him smoke.


    After puffing a few times, he finally calmed down, slumping on the co-driver seat and dreamily looking outside the car window.


    Our car eventually stopped at his ce.


    It was a ruined residential building located in a remote area. The ce was likely very old as the walls had big cracks. It almost felt as if the whole building could copse at any moment.


    And, even though it was a shabby building, they didnt own the apartment. The ce was rented, and they owed thendlord several months of rent.


    Luckily, thendlord pitied the young man as well, so he didnt pester him to pay the rental fee as soon as possible.


    The young mans family seemed really poor.


    As expected, there was no property management here. No one cleaned the lobby, garbage was scattered everywhere, and there were even feces in a corner.


    If the young man hadnt brought me there, I would have thought that it was some abandoned haunted building.


    We went to the third floor, where the young man lived.


    Stinky stic bags, used noodles cups, and fast food boxes littered the whole house. I couldnt even find a space to put my feet.


    The young man asked me to wait at the entrance while he rushed into the apartment, flushing his toilet, picking up the stic bags, and moping a way for me to enter the living room.


    Take me to see your fathers room, I asked him.


    The young man nodded then opened the door to his fathers room.


    As soon as the door was pushed open, a strong smell of smoke attacked my nose. Although the heavy smoker had died for quite a long time, the smell in his room hadnt dispersed yet.


    The room was decorated in a simple way. There was a rocking chair, a tattered bed, and a bedside table with several burning marks on it, probably left by cigarettes. There were also some ashes scattered in one corner.


    I needed but a nce to tell that it was the room of a heavy smoker.


    The rocking chair was partially charred, and there were some sticky dabs on it.


    Needless to say, those sticky dabs were left behind by the purge fluid of the corpse.


    The young man asked me, Mister Zhang, did you find something?


    I shook my head, Not yet. Im afraid that well need to have a talk with your father tonight.


    Eh? The young man was terrified. Y-You want to have a talk with my father?


    I just want to ask him what happened. I assessed the young man. Tell me honestly, what do you think of your father?


    The young man looked pensive. He was my only family member. Although he acted as though he didnt care about me, he really loved me. Whenever he had something good to eat, hed tell me toe back home and eat. He always saved the good stuff for me. Moreover, when he was still alive, he had never allowed me to smoke. He was afraid that I would end up bing like him


    Very well, I said. It is said that not even a tiger, though cruel, would eat its cubs. Although your father is now a ghost, he wont forget that he once loved you. He would never hurt you or let you smoke.


    The young man asked, Then, why have I be addicted to smoking? After all, no matter how much one smokes, its impossible to be this addicted in just one month!


    It happened because an otherworldly item is involved. I sighed. Your father was affected by the opium pipe. I suspect that when he became a ghost, he wasnt in his right mind. He didnt recognize you, and things have nowe to this.


    The young man nodded, I also think so.


    All right, when your fatheres back to smoke, he should bring the opium pipes spirit with him. Both your father and the spirit are extremely addicted to smoking. If we disturb them, they will likely lose their minds. Tonight, I will set up a magic formation; the goal is to wake up your father without affecting the pipes spirit.


    The young man nodded. Okay, Ill do as you say.


    I then took the man to the food market to buy some things we would use tonight.


    As the proverb said, Food was the God of People. It was something essential, and mankind had always relied on it. After relying on it for so long, our ancestors discovered that some kinds of food had the power to subdue and expel evil spirits. This led to more than half of their spirit-expelling methods to be rted to food.


    What I wanted to set up today was a kind of traditional formation, which was mostly made of cooking ingredients. That was why I took the young man to the food market.


    I bought a rooster, an ox tongue, and some carrots; I also prepared some lime powder.


    Now that everything was ready, we only had to wait.


    When we got back to his apartment, I asked the young man to bleed the rooster and clean it up, and then stew it with the carrots. In the meantime, I sprinkled the lime powder around the rocking chair and his fathers room.


    The young man was puzzled as he didnt understand why I wanted him to stew the chicken with carrots. He thought that I wanted to cook dinner, so he prepared to add soya sauce and other spices.


    I hurried to stop him. You just need to add salt. No need to add anything else.


    The young man didnt understand. What taste could it have then?


    By no means youre not allowed to eat the chicken. If you do, big trouble wille to you tonight.


    Soon, the chicken was ready. I asked him to separate the meat and the bones. Then, I told him to throw all the meat in the trash and leave behind only the chicken butt and the bones, as well as the carrots.


    The young man was even more bewildered. However, he didnt question me and just did what I asked him to do.


    Soon, he separated all the bones, and I relied on my memory to arrange the chicken bones and slices of carrot around the room, setting up the Celestial Spirit Great Formation.


    The chicken butt was the center of the formation. As long as the center wasnt activated, the formation wouldnt affect spiritual beings.


    The function of this formation was to protect the young man in case something unexpected happened. At that time, I would activate the formation to expel the evil spirit and protect ourselves. After all, we had no idea how strong the spirit of the opium pipe was; it was better to be prepared.


    After we had prepared everything, we waited patiently.


    The clock ticked, and I felt my heart ticking alongside it.


    The young man looked very anxious as he held the chicken butt in his hand. He sat by the entrance to his fathers bedroom and often checked the lime powder underneath his feet. If the evil spirit appeared, its footprints would show up on the lime.


    Tap, tap, tap!


    Shortly after, we heard the sound of footsteps outside the house; the footsteps stopped right at the entrance.


    The young man and I went tense. <em>Whats going on? In theory, this type of spirit should be quiet and would not go as far as creating the sound of footsteps.</em>


    I then whispered, asking, When your father returned a few days ago, did you hear the sound of footsteps?


    The man shook his head. No, there was no sound at all.


    My heart sank. There was no sound several days ago, but things were different today. <em>What does that mean? Did the other party discover our n, and decided to act in a different manner?</em>

 Chapter 215: The Man Wearing the Queue

    Chapter 215: The Man Wearing the Queue


    While I was deep in thought, someone knocked on the door.


    My body stiffened, and I quickly took out the ox tongue from my pocket, rubbing it on my eyelids. Then, I stared at the door.


    Thecrimal nds of an ox were partly located on its tongue, and people said that ox tears could open ones Yin and Yang Eye. As I had rubbed the tongue on my eyelids, I also smeared ox tears over them. This would allow me to see spiritual beings.


    The other party knocked on the door several times, but we didnt go to open. Eventually, they stopped knocking, and the sound of footsteps echoed again, heading in a different direction.


    <em>Whats happening? Did they sense my Celestial Spirit Great Formation and got scared? No, thats impossible. The formation wont create any energy fluctuation unless its activated. So, they shouldnt have discovered its existence...</em>


    Were you waiting for someone? I asked the young man.


    The man shook his head, No, no one knows that Im living here.


    <em>Thats strange then...</em>


    Aaahh! While I was deep in thought, the young man screamed. Luckily, he quickly covered his mouth and didnt create too much of a disturbance.


    Whats wrong with you?<em></em>I red at him.


    The young man was fidgety as he looked at the ground. I also lowered my head and saw that footprints were gradually appearing on the lime powder I had sprinkled on the ground. Slowly, they were heading towards the heavy smokers bedroom.


    I was sure that the heavy smoker and the opium pipes evil spirit had returned.


    I turned to the young man, signaling him to stay silent and observe the scene.


    Perhaps I hadnt smeared enough ox tears on my eyelids, because I couldnt see either of them. My eyes stung a little, and that was it.


    However, I didnt have time to care about my eyes as I was focused on the sound of footsteps, which was still echoing from the corridor outside. I concluded that it wasnt the heavy smoker. After all, both the heavy smoker and the evil spirit were already in the room.


    In that case, was someone walking outside? If someone suddenly stormed into the apartment, it would be a big problem. I nervously watched the door, hoping that the other party would not charge in.


    The footprints eventually reached the rocking chair, stopping there. Soon after, the chair started to sway, and the lime powder I had sprinkled on it outlined the figure of a man; someone was now sitting in the chair.


    I nodded at the young man, signaling him to take action. Then, I once again rubbed the ox tongue on my eyelids.


    Very soon, my eyes started to sting so much that I couldnt even open them.


    Eventually, I mustered my strength and looked towards the rocking chair.


    There was a dim shadow sitting in the chair, leaning towards the opium pipe and inhaling all the wisps of smokeing out of it.


    Beside this shadow, there was another figure, which I believed to be the opium pipes evil spirit. This figure was smaller and dimmer than the shadow sitting in the rocking chair. Moreover, I could see a very long queue [1] on its headIt was the queue hairstyle men wore in the Qing dynasty!


    <em>Does this mean that the opium pipees from the Qing dynasty?</em>


    This figure didnt inhale the wisps of smoke rising from the opium pipe but the soul of the heavy smoke. As his soul was inhaled, the heavy smoker became more and more blurry.


    <em>No wonder!</em> I finally saw the light.


    Sure enough, that opium pipe was a dangerous item. It could absorb other souls, which was no different from cannibalism.


    The young man knelt in front of the rocking chair. Father, your son has been unfilial, and I didnt show you the respect you deserved while you were alive. I know I was wrong, so I will burn a lot of paper money for you and listen to your words. Please, donte back again to scare me.


    The heavy smoker was surprised. He shifted his attention from the opium pipe and looked at his son.


    Apparently, he didnt remember that the young man was his son. He was in a daze for quite a long time, gawking at the young man.


    Its me, Chen Changsheng. Im your son, the young man repeatedly reminded his fathers ghost.


    S Son? The heavy smoker repeated the word, clearly puzzled. It seemed he didnt remember what the word son meant.


    Chen Changsheng followed my instructions and recalled the memories the two shared. They didnt share many memories, but they went to the amusement park once, had buffet dinner twice together, and so on.


    Under the influence of Chen Changshengs words, the heavy smoker eventually returned to his senses. He cried out, Son, its me, your father!


    <em>Good, my ns going well!</em> I nodded at Chen Changsheng, asking him to proceed with the next step.


    Chen Changsheng kowtowed. Father, you can be at ease and leave this world in peace. I will burn a lot of paper money for you. Moreover, Im still young, and I dont want to smoke. Youing home every day is bringing me harm.


    The heavy smoker was stimted. Help me. Son, help me


    <em>Sure enough, things arent that simple...</em>


    However, as soon as the heavy smoker uttered those words, the door to the apartment was pushed open, and a figure charged into the room.


    I wanted to shower that person with curses as barging in at this moment could have terrible consequences. If we alerted the evil spirit, it wouldnt be any different from pushing Chen Changsheng into a pit of fire.


    The person that had stormed in was Ru Xue. She smiled when she saw me. Ive finally found you.


    I couldnt attend to her; I quickly looked at Chen Changsheng.


    Sure enough, the evil spirit was furious, and it charged toward Chen Changsheng.


    We could only fight now. I screamed at Chen Changsheng, Hurry, activate the formation!


    Chen Changsheng was scared, but he reacted in time, throwing the chicken butt to the ground.


    As soon as the chicken butt hit the ground, the formation was activated. All of the chicken bones vibrated, and the cry of a rooster echoed. Then, a bunch of light beams that the naked eye couldnt see covered Chen Changsheng.


    The figure, who was about to possess Chen Changshengs body, was expelled and disappeared into thin air.


    Chen Changsheng was frightened. He rushed back to me, asking, Is it over?


    No, not yet. I looked at Ru Xue coldly. Why did youe here? Didnt you have anything better to do?


    Ru Xue wasnt pleased, rolling her eyes at me. Did I miss something?


    I gritted my teeth in anger. Do you think this is a joke? You almost killed us!


    What? Ru Xue was startled. Does that mean that there was really a ghost here?


    I was so angry that my face flushed. Thats the only thing you care about?


    Now, I understood how Li Mazi felt.


    Chen Changsheng also fumed. Big sis, why are you here? Just now, that ghost almost possessed me. I was lucky I managed to activate the formation in time!


    Ru Xue snapped, You dont understand anything. Im his assistant, so its normal for me to assist him all the time.


    Chen Changsheng knew that Ru Xue was just bragging, so he decided to ignore her. He turned to me and asked, What do we do now?


    I said, somewhat dejected, Things dont look good. We have managed to expel the spirit with the formation, but we have made him hostile as well. Itll be much more troublesome to deal with himter.


    Chen Changsheng asked worriedly, How do we proceed then?


    We can only take one step at a time. Well have to see what happens tomorrow. Ill take my leave now. I need to prepare some countermeasures.


    Before leaving with Ru Xue, I asked Chen Changsheng to clean his apartment. I couldnt stand this messy and dirty room.


    On the way back, Ru Xue was very excited. What are you going to do next? Why dont you prepare an altar to exorcise the spirit? Also, does your family have some Daoist robe or peach wood sword? I can take some pictures of you posing as a Daoist priest and publish them on the front page of some movie magazine!


    I got a headache from her twittering; I had to turn the speaker to the maximum.


    When I got home, I went straight to bed. However, early in the next morning, I was awakened by the phones ringtone.


    I drowsily grabbed my phone, getting shocked immediately after.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queue_(hairstyle)

 Chapter 216: The Beautiful Policewoman

    Chapter 216: The Beautiful Policewoman


    It was a call from a 110 call center!


    <em>Damn, why did the police call me? Did Li Mazi get drunkst night, doing something crazy on the street?</em>


    I picked up the phone, and an operator''s voice came from the other end of the line. Good morning. Are you Mr. Zhang? Do you happen to know a man called Chen Changsheng?


    Chen Changsheng? Yes, I do. What about him? I exhaled in relief. It wasnt about Li Mazi.


    Sir, theres a problem with Chen Changsheng. Could youe over to the police station? said the other party.


    Whats going on?


    We cant exin through the phone. Its better if youe here, said the operator before hanging up.


    I quickly put on some clothes and rushed to the local police station.


    Chen Changsheng was there. He had bruises on his face and was crouching in one corner, motionless. When he saw me, he looked at me pleadingly.


    I was enraged. Whats wrong with you guys? Hitting people is against thew!


    Against thew? A beautiful policewoman, who was nearby, red up. He sexually assaulted a woman, and he was beaten up.


    I red at Chen Changsheng. You sexually assaulted a woman?


    Chen Changsheng yelled, looking very wronged. I have no idea what happened! I was sleeping when I dreamt of getting out of home. Then, I lost control and messed with someone. When I got a hold of myself, I was already at the police station.


    I looked at him gloomily. I understand. Officer, hes still a minor, and he learned his lesson already. Can you let him go?


    Take him home, said the beautiful policewoman. This pervert should be grateful that he wasnt beaten to death.


    I took Chen Changsheng and left the police station.


    Chen Changsheng looked at me, somewhat dejected. Sir, I didnt do it on purpose. Im afraid that thing is pestering me


    I snapped, Stop talking nonsense. What happened? Tell me in detail.


    Im not sure what to say. I was sleeping when I dreamt of running naked on the streets. I didnt feel shame but quite enjoyed it; it felt very artistic. Then, I saw a couple on the street. I got jealous and couldnt help but harass the woman. Someone beat me up, and when I woke up, I was at the police station.


    Is that so? I got a headache. <em>He ran naked on the streets and even felt that it was very artistic? Whats wrong with his head?</em>


    I looked at him. Do you remember anything else? Maybe something that left an impression on you.


    Chen Changsheng tried to remember. Something that left an impression on me? Ah, I remember one thing. When I was still in a daze, someone pped me. That p scared me out of my wits and allowed me to return to my senses. I guess it was the policewoman who hit me.


    So, the policewoman scared you, allowing you to return to your senses? From what I can infer, the evil spirit was afraid of the policewoman and left your body. I pondered.


    In hindsight, I dont even find the policewoman scary. Shes really pretty, said Chen Changsheng.


    I gave him a faint smile. Everything in this world has a nemesis, and I think we found the nemesis of that evil spirit! Lets head back.


    Then, I turned around, heading back to the police station.


    Chen Changsheng was anxious. Why are we heading back? Arent you afraid that the policewoman might arrest me again?


    Your life is in her hands now. If we dont contact her to understand the situation better, I cant deal with that opium pipe.


    Chen Changsheng was reluctant but had no choice.


    When we got back to the police station, the policewoman was surprised. Why did youe back?


    I smiled. I want to report a case to the authorities.


    What case? she asked impatiently.


    My brother was assaulted. Thats what I want to report, I said.


    He deserved that, the policewoman said coldly. Hes a pervert and harassed a person.


    The other party didnt have the right to hit my brother. By hitting him, they vited thew, I said. Moreover, I suspect that he wasnt beaten by the victim but by another person, who abused their power to give my brother a lesson.


    ording to what Chen Changsheng had told me, the person who hit him was the policewoman.


    As soon as I said that, the policewoman became nervous. This case of yours doesn''t make sense. Even if you report it, your brother will be charged for sexual assault. You should think about it carefully.


    I smiled. We might refrain from reporting the case, if you help us with a small matter.


    What matter? The policewoman exhaled in relief.


    I want to know your eight horoscopic characters and your name.


    The opium pipes evil spirit was afraid of this policewoman, and I wanted to know why.


    No way. The policewoman was enraged. Why do you want to know that stuff?


    All right, Ill be honest with you. Although I knew that the policewoman wouldnt believe me, I decided to try. An evil spirit is pestering this little brother of mine. However, you managed to scare off that thing when you beat him up. I suspect that you might be the nemesis of that evil spirit, and I want to know why its afraid of you. Thats the only way I can help my little brother here.


    As expected, the policewoman burst outughing. You must be really good at picking up girls. Your stories arent half bad.


    I said helplessly, It seems well have no choice but to report the case. Actually, you dont lose anything by telling me your eight horoscopic characters. I can even read your fortune for free.


    The policewoman lost her patience. You sure like to chatter! If you want my help, prove to me that you''re telling the truth!


    <em>How the hell am I supposed to prove it? I cant capture a ghost on the spot and show it to you, can I?</em>


    Eventually, I told her, How about youe to my brothers house tonight? Theres a ghost there, and I can show it to you.


    The policewoman looked pensive. In the end, she nodded. All right, if you can prove that youre telling the truth, I can even find you some customers.


    I forced a smile. Lets leave the business talk forter. Dealing with this case is tiring enough; I really want to take a vacation after this matter is over.


    The policewomanughed. You sure like boasting, dont you? You talk as if its true.


    Before leaving, she gave me her business card, saying that she would call me after getting off work. I nodded and left with Chen Changsheng.


    Chen Changsheng was still worried. What if that policewoman is just making fun of us? Shes a police officer, would she even believe in ghosts?


    I mused. It didnt seem like she was joking. Moreover, I think she needs my help with something. Anyway, we''re just wasting time thinking about it. Well see tonight!


    On the way back, I kept wondering why that evil spirit was afraid of the policewoman.


    Since she was a police officer, her body exuded a certain authority, which could scare off ordinary ghosts. However, that ghost wearing a queue wouldnt be afraid of something like that.


    However, there was definitely a reason for the strange behavior of the evil spirit. Perhaps it was scared by something she had on her person, or perhaps the policewomans ancestor was its arch-enemy!

 Chapter 217: The Eloquent Ji Xiaolan

    Chapter 217: The Eloquent Ji Xian


    Around 7:30 PM, the policewoman finally gave us a call. She asked for the address and headed over.


    In the meantime, Li Mazi also arrived; Ru Xue was with him.


    I told Li Mazi what the whole situation. He pondered for a while then asked, Who is the owner of that opium pipe? Could it be some famous guy in ancient times who died due to opium?


    Im not sure, but I find it unlikely. People who died due to opium would be high and ted before their deaths. As they didnt have a violent death, it would be hard for them to be evil spirits.


    Li Mazi nodded in agreement.


    Shortly after, the policewoman arrived. She pinched her nose as she walked into Chen Changshengs apartment. This old residential building should have been demolished already. Why is someone still living here?


    Chen Changsheng was flustered. Although this building looks old, its really sturdy. Its not a problem to live here.


    The policewoman rolled her eyes at Chen Changsheng. Why are you so worried? Im not from the demolishing department. I wont blow up your ce.


    Then, she turned to me. When are you going to show me the ghost?


    I seized the chance to ask, I need to know something first. Why is that ghost afraid of you? Do you have any special item on your person, or was any of your ancestors a prominent figure?


    The policewoman contemted for a while and took off her jade pendant, giving it to me. This jade pendant has been passed down in my family for several generations. Lets see if you can tell where ites from.


    I carefully held the jade pendant, turning it over in my palm. The jade pendant was made of fine Hetian jade, and the craftsmanship was excellent. There were several spiraling snakes engraved on it, dancing and floating among the clouds. They almost looked alive.


    Seeing the style and the worn-out surface, I concluded that the jade pendant must be very old. There was also a faintly discernible red dot inside the jade, which looked like a drop of blood if seen from a certain angle.


    Ah? Chen Changsheng called out in surprise. These decorative patterns seem very familiar.


    I exined, The snake was a status symbol in the Qing dynasty. The Emperor and the Crown Prince were considered to be true dragons. As such, their imperial robes and personal items had dragons carved on them. Below them were the high-ranking officials, which used the snake as their symbol. Thats why I feel that this jade pendant belonged to some high-ranking official in the Qing dynasty.


    Chen Changsheng, you said that these patterns looked familiar. Does your opium pipe have simr patterns?


    Chen Changsheng nodded. Yes! The opium pipe in my house has the same patterns.


    The opium pipe was made of wood and brass, which werent as durable as Hetian jade. After hundreds of years, the patterns on it had faded quite a lot. That was why I couldnt recognize them when I first saw the pipe.


    After hearing Chen Changshengs words, I concluded that both the jade pendant and the opium pipe belonged to the same era, as only officials from the Qing dynasty used those snake patterns.


    Moreover, it was certain that the owners of the two items were enemies. That was why the opium pipes evil spirit was afraid of the jade pendant.


    The policewoman eximed, That was unexpected. You have a good eye; that ancestor of mine was indeed a famous high-ranking official in the Qing dynasty.


    Which one? I hurried to ask.


    However, the policewoman wasnt willing to disclose this piece of information. You only need to know that he was one of the most famous officials in the Qing dynasty. Theyve made a lot of movies and TV series about him. He had a great deal of influence back then.


    As she didnt want to talk, I knew that there was something fishy; I kept urging her.


    Eventually, the policewoman gave in. Its Heshen.<em></em>


    <em></em>Heshen? I was dumbfounded. This official was indeed very famous for his corruption. I understood why she didnt want to tell us; she felt that this ancestor of hers brought her nothing but shame.


    Ru Xue suddenly screamed, I think I know the owner of that opium pipe!


    Ji Xian! Ru Xue and I spoke in unison.


    The owner of that opium pipe was definitely Ji The Pipe Xian.


    He was a famous, influential schr in the Qing dynasty. His Siku Quanshu [1] greatly impact theter generations, and he went down in history as an honest and capable official.


    He was a heavy smoker, and his favorite opium pipe had been gifted to him by the Emperor himself.


    ording to the rumors, Ji Xian was once strolling through the imperial court when he got the urge to smoke. As he started smoking, the Emperor suddenly came in. Afraid of being discovered, he hid the pipe into his sleeve.


    The pipe ended up burning his clothes and charring his arm, which made him unable to attend the court for the next two months.


    Anyway, Ji Xian had an arch-enemy, a corrupted official called Heshen. One was an honest person, while the other was corrupted to the core; it was natural for them to fight.


    However, Heshen was a top-tier official back then, while Ji Xian was just a third-tier schr; they werent equal in power. Ji Xian didnt follow Heshens bad example but went against him, which caused him to be in danger most of the time. That was why Ji Xian was afraid of Heshen.


    Now that everything was clear, a n emerged in my mind. I smiled at the policewoman. It seems Ill need to borrow your jade pendant tonight.


    She agreed immediately. Feel free to use it, just be careful not to ruin it. Anyway, if I dont see that ghost tonight, you are done for.


    I smiled faintly. Dont worry, youll see your ghost. By the way, youll have to follow my instructions tonight, or youll be in danger.


    The policewoman nodded. Okay, Ill listen to you.


    Then, I had Li Mazi, Ru Xue, and the policewoman wait in the living room while Chen Changsheng and I stayed in the bedroom.


    Chen Changsheng was a little nervous. Are we not going to prepare a formation today? Wont it be dangerous for me?


    Dont worry, Iforted him. Everything is ready, we only have to wait.


    Tonight, we would solve this matter once for all.


    We waited in the bedroom, and as the people on the streets decreased and the lights dimmed, I asked Chen Changsheng to lie on the rocking chair and puff the opium pipe.


    Chen Changsheng was scared. I dont want to use that opium pipe. What if I enrage the evil spirit within?


    I was impatient. If we dont lure the spirit out, how are we going to deal with it? If you want to solve this matter, you must do as I say.


    Left with no choice, Chen Changsheng picked the opium pipe up.


    The opium pipe could easily make people addicted to it.


    At first, Chen Changsheng was terrified of angering the evil spirit, but as soon as he started smoking, he was addicted and couldnt stop anymore. He puffed continuously and had a delighted expression on his face; he looked like a drug addict.


    While smoking, he started to convulse, his limbs shaking hard. I rushed toward him, shaking his body. Chen Changsheng, wake up! Wake up!


    However, Chen Changsheng didnt wake up, and his condition began to worsen. His entire body convulsed, and his muscles stiffened. He straightened his legs and his eyes rolled back as strange, gargling noises came out from his throat.


    I didnt call him anymore as I knew that the evil spirit had possessed his body.


    I smeared the ox tears on my eyelids and checked every corner of the room. For some unknown reason, Chen Changshengs father didnte back home today.


    I was worried. <em>Was his fathers soul eaten already?</em>


    While I was deep in thought, Chen Changsheng stopped shaking. Then, he lit up the opium pipe and inhaled deeply, enjoying the feeling it brought.


    He didnt stop inhaling until his face paled due to theck of air. Only as he was about to choke did he gasp for breath.


    I took two steps backward and gazed at him. I wanted to see what he wanted to do.


    Chen Changsheng puffed several times, inhaling all the smoke and not letting a single wisp out. Only when he couldnt stand it any more would he exhale a bit.


    As the evil spirit was wreaking havoc in his body, Chen Changshengs pupils began to erge, and I seemed to see a wisp of ck smoke emerge on his forehead.


    He was at deaths door.


    That evil spirit wanted to kill Chen Changsheng, and it wouldn''t stop until he was dead.


    I turned to the living room, calling out, Come over!


    The policewoman stormed in. When she saw Chen Changshengs appearance, she couldnt help but call out despite her best efforts to stay calm, Whats going on? What happened to this kid?


    At the same time, when Chen Changsheng saw the woman, a glimpse of fear shed in his eyes. His hand, which was holding the opium pipe, also shivered.


    As the evil spirit was scared, Chen Changsheng briefly returned to his senses. Brother Zhang, save me!


    I nodded at Chen Changsheng, signaling him to calm down.


    However, this state of rity didntst long. The evil spirit overpowered him again, making him smoke more cigarettes.


    I held the Sirius Whip and nced at the policewoman, asking her to shove the jade pendant into Chen Changshengs mouth.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siku_Quanshu

 Chapter 218: Born to Be Enemies

    Chapter 218: Born to Be Enemies


    The evil spirit knew about our n, so he gritted his teeth to prevent the policewoman from pushing the jade pendant into Chen Changshengs mouth.


    Chen Changsheng tightly gripped the opium pipe and kept his mouth shut. The policewoman was helpless.


    Perhaps because she was scared by Chen Changshengs ghastly appearance, her hands were shaking nonstop, which caused the jade pendant to fall a few times.


    I yelled at her, You dont need to be afraid of him! Hes the one who is scared of you! Open his mouth and force the pendant in!


    The policewoman shot me a pleading look. I I cant do it


    All of a sudden, the bedroom door was pushed open, and Li Mazi stormed in. Bastard, who do you think you are? Im going to kill you!


    He then held Chen Changshengs chin and tried to pry his mouth open.


    The evil spirit was afraid of the policewoman but not of Li Mazi. He wielded the pipe and hit Li Mazi in the face.


    Chen Changsheng was unnaturally strong, and he almost fractured Li Mazis skull with that blow, causing a lot of blood to gush out.


    The policewoman was petrified and stared nkly. After a good while, Li Mazi roared, Why the hell are you standing over there?! Stuff the pendant into this mouth!


    The policewoman finally reacted and shoved the jade into Chen Changshengs mouth.


    Chen Changsheng shrieked and twitched all over before slumping onto the ground. The opium pipe also left his hands.


    I instructed the policewoman, Stand guard at the entrance. Li Mazi, you quickly get out.


    I had the Sirius Whip, while the policewoman was a descendant of Heshen, the evil spirit''s nemesis. We could both protect ourselves, but Li Mazi had nothing to keep the spirit in check. That was why I asked him to leave.


    Li Mazi nodded and quickly ran away. The policewoman stood guard at the entrance, both of her hands holding the door tightly.


    A strange wind blew from Chen Changshengs body, and the rooms temperature dropped sharply. A dim shadow appeared after the wind was gone. It stood in one corner, ready to flee.


    You bold evil spirit, you have nowhere to run! Surrender immediately! I cracked my Sirius Whip, and righteous energy rushed towards the evil spirit.


    The spirit was overwhelmed by the righteous energy, shrieking in pain. Then, it charged toward me in frustration.


    Seeing the bony, charcoal-like figureing at me, I was a little afraid. However, it didnt mean that I wasnt going to put up a fight. Quite the contrary, my fighting spirit was stronger than ever.


    I wielded the Sirius Whip and attacked continuously, preventing the other party from approaching. Seeing that it couldnt get past me, the evil spirit charged towards the policewoman.


    The woman was frightened as she could see the evil spirit due to her jade pendant. Seeing the charred ghost approach, she screamed and turned around to run away.


    Li Mazi had already guessed that she might try to run away, so he had been standing behind her since the beginning.


    When the policewoman turned around, he held her down, forcing her to stand guard at the entrance.


    I didnt know whether tough or cry. How could a policewoman have so little courage?


    I roared, If you dont want to die, stand guard at the door! That thing will hunt you down if it manages to escape!


    Of course, I was just trying to scare her. The evil spirit dreaded her, and there was no way he would look for her on his own.


    After I screamed at her, the policewoman calmed down. She craned her neck and screamed, Go Go away!


    As she looked fiercer now, the evil spirit was even more scared. The charred figure retreated into one corner of the room.


    I said coldly, Im giving you a chance to survive. If you stay put in the pipe and dont harm others, Ill leave your soul intact. Otherwise, Ill have to destroy youpletely. If you surrender, nod your head.


    As he had no way out, the evil spirit immediately nodded when I shouted at him.


    I exhaled in relief. Wheres Chen Changshengs father? Why isnt he here with you tonight?


    Gone reincarnated.


    The evil spirit had used his mind tomunicate with me.


    This soul didnt seem to be evil. Otherwise, my Sirius Whip wouldn''t have been enough to subdue it.


    All right, return to the pipe. I waved my hand to dismiss the soul. The spirit didnt hesitate to enter the opium pipe, not making a sound afterwards.


    The policewoman asked me, her voice trembling, Is it over?


    As soon as I gave her a nod, she slumped on the ground like a deted balloon. Oh my God, I just saw a ghost! Ghosts really exist...


    I burst outughing. A bold policewoman like you is actually afraid of ghosts?


    The policewoman was still scared, so she didnt retort to my sarcastic remark. W-What do I do next? Im a police officer, and most of the cases Ive been dealing with are rted to murder!


    Iforted her, No need to worry. Since youre a police officer, your body exudes an aura of authority, which would prevent ordinary ghosts from approaching you.


    However, my words werent enough to ease her mind. She was still tense as she nced at the opium pipe.


    Li Mazi carried her to the couch as her body was still soft. This jade pendant I dont want it. Im selling it to you.


    Er, why?


    If there is a ghost in that opium pipe, Im sure there is one in my jade pendant as well, the policewoman said. I dont want to have dealings with ghosts every day!


    I was delighted. These two otherworldly items were born to be enemies. If I could get both of them, they would definitelye in handyter.


    If someone dared to provoke me, I would have the opium pipe pester them. Then, after having some fun, I could use the jade pendant to solve the problem.


    Other than taking revenge, I could even earn some money!


    Of course, it was just a random thought. I wasnt that type of person, and I would never resort to such means. Li Mazi, on the other hand...


    Anyway, I decided to keep the pendant and the pipe together, which would ensure that the opium pipe wouldnt cause trouble.


    The jade pendant was an antique that dated back to the Qing dynasty, so it was a valuable item. I asked the policewoman, How much do you want for it?


    She didnt really seem to care about money. If you help me with something, I can give it to you for free.


    As expected, the policewoman hadnte here on a whim. She hade to test my abilities and see if I was the real deal.


    I shook my head. Maybeter. I want to take a break first.


    Soon after, Chen Changsheng also woke up. He still remembered being possessed, so he kept screaming. I had tofort him for a good while to calm him down.


    After he got a hold of himself, he asked, What about my father? Did he ascend?


    I said with a smile, Dont worry, everything has been dealt with. Your father has already entered the cycle of reincarnation.


    Hearing my words, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    On the way back, Li Mazi happily asked me, How much are those two antiques worth?


    At least several million renminbi, I answered.


    Li Mazi was overjoyed. He took out a cigarette and lit it. Its time for me toe out of retirement. I would be a fool not to collect all the money lying around!


    As soon as Li Mazi took out the cigarette, Ru Xue snatched it from him. Youre not allowed to smoke.


    Li Mazi was enraged. Why am I not allowed to smoke? Who do you think you are?


    Hmph! I said youre not allowed, so youre not allowed!


    Give me a reason!


    A man who smokes is irresponsible, fumed Ru Xue.


    Her words made me sigh with emotion.


    She had a point, because smoking was definitely an irresponsible behavior. Not only would it harm oneself, but also the people around them!


    Ru Xues righteous words rendered Li Mazi speechless. Eventually, he threw the cigarette pack outside the car window. Forget it, no smoking!

 Chapter 219: Pestered By a Hundred Ghosts

    Chapter 219: Pestered By a Hundred Ghosts


    Later, I managed to sell the opium pipe for one million renminbi.


    The buyer was a wealthy man, and he fell in love with the pipe at the first puff.


    I didnt sell him the jade pendant, though. As soon as the spirit in the opium pipe showed up, it should be about time for him to quit smoking.


    After this matter, my life returned to normality. Every day, I would idly sit in my antique shop, waiting for business toe.


    I had already gotten used to this lifestyle, learning how to appreciate the quietness of the night. A part of me hoped that no customer woulde so that I could keep enjoying this calmness.


    I was happy as I had plenty of food to eat, a roof over my head, and a beautiful woman by my side. I couldnt ask for more.


    Around one weekter, Li Mazi dropped in as usual. He brought braised pork together with a bottle of old wine. Although it was gradually getting warmer, he still liked to heat up his wine before drinking. Therefore, I often kept the brazier burning.


    While drinking, Li Mazi suddenly lifted his head and looked at me, his expression serious. Little Brother Zhang, whats the deal with Ru Xue?


    I was surprised. <em>Li Mazi never cared about Ru Xue before, howe he suddenly asked about her today? Did he take a liking to her or something?</em>


    I smiled. Never would I have thought that the quarrelsome couple would develop feelings for each other.


    I then told him everything I knew about Ru Xues situation.


    Li Mazi nodded, looking pensive.


    Hey, what happened? Did you fall in love with her or something?


    Li Mazi was startled and waved his hands continuously. Of course not! Dont talk nonsense!


    <em>Am I the one talking nonsense?</em> Looking at his flustered appearance, I knew he had some feelings for Ru Xue.


    While we were chatting, the voice of a woman echoed from outside, Mr. Zhang, are you home?


    The voice sounded familiar.


    I turned my head and discovered that it was that descendant of Heshen, the beautiful policewoman named Fengshen Nana.


    As she was part of the Manchu ethnic minority, she had a two-character surname, Fengshen.


    I had almost removed her from my mind as we didnt have any contact after the opium pipe incident. I thought we would never meet again.


    Yes, Im home. I looked at her strangely. Howe youre here?


    Why? Am I not wee? Fengshen Nana retorted. She didnt stand on ceremony and directly walked to the table, taking a seat beside me. It seems you dont have much to do these days, drinking and eating to your hearts content...


    Her entric tone made me feel ufortable. I asked impatiently, Do you need something from me?


    She said with a smile, Did you forget already? Thest time, when I gave you the jade pendant, you agreed to help me with a matter. So Have you rested enough?


    I had a headache. It seemed it was time to get back to work.


    I could only ce my tumbler down. Speak. I want to know the situation before giving you an answer.


    Fengshen Nana said, There is this maternal uncle of mine who I think provoked some evil spirit. I want you to check on him.


    I shook my head. Im sorry, but I cant help you with that.


    Why? She looked at me, displeased. Are you refusing to keep up your end of the deal after receiving the payment? Do you know that I can arrest you for spreading superstitious practices?


    Its no use to threaten me, I told her. You said that hes provoked some evil spirit, but is this spirit rted to an otherworldly item? Because if theres no otherworldly item involved, I wont be able to help you. Im an otherworldly merchant, and I specialize in dealing with otherworldly items. I dont know how to deal with evil spirits from other sources.


    Fengshen Nana said, I dont know if theres an otherworldly item involved, but you shoulde with me and check! If there is none, you can choose to ignore the case.


    I sighed. Ignoring this matter wouldnt do me any good.


    Since I had her jade pendant, I had to apany her regardless of how dangerous it could be.


    Left with no choice, I nodded. Fine, Ill try my best.


    Fengshen Nana smiled. Dont worry. Ill give you a big reward if you solve the case.


    We should go right now. After drinking some wine, I was much bolder, and my body was brimming with Yang energy. If we took action right now, it would be safer.


    No, we cant meet him if we go right now, Fengshen Nana said. Itste, and the psychiatric hospital is closed at this time.


    What? A psychiatric hospital? Li Mazis interest was piqued. You want us to treat a patient with mental illness? Do you think we are divine doctors or something?


    Fengshen Nana nced at Li Mazi, clearly displeased. Back at Chen Changshengs ce, Li Mazi had forced her to face the evil spirit, leaving a bad impression on her.


    Li Mazis sarcastic remark enraged her, and the two started quarreling. Luckily, I was there and stopped them before things could escte.


    I asked Fengshen Nana to tell me the story in detail. I needed to see if the case could be rted to an otherworldly item or not.


    The person who needed my help was her maternal uncle, a man in his sixties with an easy-going attitude. He worked as a chef at a big hotel, and he had been just promoted to the position of head Chef.


    But as soon as he was promoted, he began to act strange; he didn''t go to work for several days and locked himself in his house.


    It looked as if his soul had left him. He would sit on his bed all day without eating, staring nkly at the floor and giggling. Luckily, his wife was a nurse, and she managed to feed him here and there. Otherwise, he would have died of hunger.


    Around a weekter, her uncle started to talk again. However, he sounded and acted like a woman.


    The mirror in my flowery mansion is broken, can you give me a new one?


    Im running out of cosmetics in my flowery mansion, bring me some more!


    Fengshen Nanas aunt was scared. That man didnt sound like her husband at all! She immediately thought that a female ghost might have possessed her husband, so she burned joss sticks, made offerings, and invited an expert to help him. However, nothing worked, and her husbands situation kept getting worse and worse


    The next day, her uncles personality changed again. This time, he stuck his tongue out, screaming in an unclear voice, Big chicken! I want to eat a big chicken!


    When her uncle spoke, he looked absent-minded. There was no focus in his eyes.


    Moreover, he was a vegetarian as he believed in Buddhism. Why did he suddenly want to eat chicken?


    Nanas aunt was terrified by these events and decided to bring him to the hospital for a check.


    However, her husband was now as heavy as a mountain. When he sat on his bed, four young men couldnt lift him up.


    In the end, the hospital sent an ambnce, and a group of people, including doctors, had to give their all to lift him up and bring him to the ambnce.


    But when he got to the hospital, they couldnt figure out what kind of illness he had. They even performed a CT scan but found nothing.


    The doctors suggested Nanas aunt to take her husband to a psychiatric hospital. But everybody knew what kind of ce a psychiatric hospital was... If he got admitted there, he would never get out.


    Nanas uncle was the pir of the family. If he fell, his family would be devastated.


    In the end, Nanas aunt had no choice but to keep him at home, hoping to find an expert that could cure him.


    However, her husbands situation didnt improve but worsened instead. He seemed to suffer from multiple personality disorder, and he would be a different person every day.


    One night, he sneaked out and stole three chickens from their neighbor. He ate them and then sat in one corner, starting to smoke. When the neighborined, Nanas uncle attacked him and bit his ear off.


    The Public Security Bureau got involved, and his sickness could not be concealed anymore. Nanas uncle was eventually sent to a psychiatric hospital.


    His wife was heartbroken, and left with no choice, she went to see Fengshen Nana in the hope that she could get someone to release her uncle.


    When Fengshen Nana went to visit her uncle, she found that his illness was very serious. He was out of his mind and attacked everybody. He was kept in a separate room, and one could imagine what he would do if he was released.


    Fengshen Nana talked to her aunt about it, but her aunt kept crying and listened to no reason. Eventually, she had to promise that she would look for someone to help her uncle.


    As coincidence would have it, Fengshen Nana happened to bump into us some timeter.


    After discovering that ghosts really existed, she thought that her uncle might have bumped into one as well.


    Having seen our abilities, she knew that we were the real deal and not some fake Daoist priests, so she decided to ask for our help.


    After listening to her story, I was lost in thought.


    Her uncles circumstance was really rare. If it were schizophrenia, he would have two personalities at most. But ording to Fengshen Nana, her uncle had at least five or six personalities.


    It was possible that a ghost had possessed him, but he wasnt a bus! How could he have so many ghosts inside his body?


    Moreover, why did they all choose to possess the same person?


    Since I had agreed to look into this case, I would try my best.


    I said to Fengshen Nana, We should see him now. His symptoms should be very clear around this time, and itll be easier to find clues.


    Fengshen Nana hesitated but finally nodded. She then called her superior and used her personal connections to get us into the psychiatric hospital.


    It was around 11 PM, and by the time we arrived at the psychiatric hospital, it was past midnight. Fengshen Nana showed her police badge and took us in.


    The hospital wasnt as deserted as I had thought. The rooms were packed with patients. Some were walking back and forth in the corridor, while others were crying and shouting. I also saw several nurses giving injections to the patients.


    Rather than a psychiatric hospital, this ce resembled a ughterhouse.


    The Yin energy in the building was really strong. I guessed it was due to the many people that had died there. I had heard rumors about simr organizations, who would trick homeless people to harvest their organs. Organ trafficking was the main source of ie of many simr ces scattered throughout the nation.


    We eventually reached the remote ward where Fengshen Nanas uncle was kept. He had been sedated and was sleeping.


    Even in his sleep, he seemed very scared. His body would twitch from time to time, and whimpering sounds came out of his mouth.


    Fengshen Nana looked at me. Do you want to go inside to have a look?


    I gave her a nod. Lets go.


    Fengshen Nana called a staff member and had them open the iron door. Then, we walked up to her uncle, ncing at him.

 Chapter 220: The Secret Underneath the Bed

    Chapter 220: The Secret Underneath the Bed


    Fengshen Nanas uncle had dark skin, a wrinkled face full of cuts, and disheveled hair. I wondered when was thest time he took a bath.


    Fengshen Nana turned to look at me, so I asked her, How should I address him?


    People usually call him Old Chef, she answered.


    I nodded and ced my palm on the crown of her uncles head. I clutched his head and said in a gentle voice, Old Chef, wake up!


    If someone was startled awake while they were having a nightmare, they could get a heart attack, with their soul directly flying out of their body. As such, I covered the crown of his head and gently called his name; this would help keep his soul in ce.


    Although he was injected with some sedatives, Old Chef soon woke up.


    The first thing he did was scream. Let me go! Let me go! Nana?! Please help me! Take me out of here!


    Fengshen Nana was very happy that her uncle recognized her. Uncle, is that really you? Can you recognize me?


    Old Chef blurted out, Nana, find your aunt! They want to kill me!


    I immediately asked, Who wants to kill you?


    Old Chef answered, The drum


    Before he couldplete his sentence, something blocked his throat. He gulped down, and his voice began to change. His anxious expression also disappeared, reced by a sneer. Where are my eggs? Did you eat my eggs?


    Li Mazi, who was standing next to me, burst outughing. I also found it hard to hold myughter back. What eggs? You cany eggs?


    Old Chef red at me and kept asking the same question, Where are my eggs? Did you eat them?


    Are these eggs supposed toe out of your butt? Li Mazi scoffed. This guy is shameless.


    Im talking about the eggs Iid, Old Chef fumed. Move away, I want toy eggs.


    Then, he started to push, just as if he was taking a dump.


    Uncle, are you okay? Fengshen Nana was worried. Get a hold of yourself. Dont scare me.


    In the next moment, I heard a loud fart, and a horrible stench spread in the room. I pinched my nose and dragged Fengshen Nana away. Damn, he really


    Li Mazi was likewise shocked. When he returned to his senses, he hurried to leave the room. This old guy is really disgusting!


    Fengshen Nana sighed. Mr. Zhang, what do we do next? Why do I feel that the thing that possessed my uncle isnt a human but some animal that cany eggs?


    I patted her shoulder. Dont overthink it. Since the other party only messed with your uncles head, it means that they dont want to kill him just yet. We still have some time to investigate.


    Fengshen Nana said, During that brief moment of rity, my uncle said that someone wanted to kill him. I think they might harm him soon.


    Right, when I asked him who wanted to kill him, what did your uncle say? I asked.


    Drum? Fengshen Nana said. But, theres no drum in his house.


    We should go to his house and check, I suggested.


    We then drove to his house. It was a nice apartment located in the suburb, right on the first floor. It was clean and tidy, but the Yang energy was somewhat low. I guessed it might be because there were no young people living there.


    Nanas aunt was knitting a sweater, and she hurried to wee us. When we mentioned Nanas uncle, she began to cry.


    Fengshen Nana tried tofort her. Aunty, dont worry. I brought two experts with me this time. They are very skilled. Im sure they can cure Uncle.


    Nanas aunt carefully observed us, her eyes filled with doubts. Arent they too young? Can they really help him?


    Fengshen Nana smiled. Aunty, dont worry. Ive seen their abilities with my own eyes. Some time ago, we met a smoker and


    Fengshen Nana recounted the story of the heavy smoker, shocking her aunt again and again. Her aunt was now so convinced that I was afraid she would start kowtowing. Grandmaster, you must save my husband!


    Iforted her, Dont be impatient. I need to ask you two things, think carefully before you reply.


    Nanas aunt nodded continuously. Sure. If I know the answer, I will reply honestly.


    Good. I nodded. We visited Old Chef earlier, and he mentioned a drum. Do you know what drum he might be talking about?


    A drum? Nana''s aunt shook her head. No, I dont know. How is a drum rted to all this?


    I suspect that the drum he mentioned could be an otherworldly item.


    An otherworldly item? Whats that? Nana''s aunt sounded confused.


    I briefly exined to her what an otherworldly item was. Nana''s aunt was dumbfounded. How do I know if such an item is in my house?


    Only antiques that are older than one hundred years can be otherworldly items. As I said that, Nana''s aunt exhaled in relief. Thank God, we dont have such items in our house.


    Think about it carefully. Before he started to act strange, did Old Chef do anything out of the ordinary? For example, did he mention something bizarre or offend anybody?


    Nana''s aunt said, "Now that you mention it, one day before the ident, he got into a fight with our neighbor Zhao Dafa due to the kids. Im not sure if this counts.


    Does Zhao Dafa have a drum in his house? I asked.


    I dont think so. Nana''s aunt contemted. Zhao Dafa sells vegetables on the street, and he has a pretty good rtionship with my husband. After my husband got sick, he dropped in and gave us some supplements.


    Anything else?


    No, nothing else.


    Good, do not let anyone know about this matter. Ill find a chance to investigate Zhao Dafa. All right, lets go to Old Chefs room; I want to see if I can find anything.


    Nana''s aunt nodded and brought us to her husbands room.


    The room was aplete mess and had a strange smell. Although someone had tried to scrub the floor clean, there was still a puddle of blood on it. Aunty, is that the blood Old Chef spat out?


    Nana''s aunt nodded. Yes. That puddle of blood has be one with the floor. No matter how hard I tried to scrub it, it didnt go away.


    I nodded and squatted down, touching the puddle of blood. I furrowed my brows right after. This blood isnt human blood. It has a strange smell and feels really cold.


    What do you mean? Fengshen Nana rolled her eyes at me. Its my uncles blood, how could it not be human blood? And, its been on the floor for half a month. Of course, its cold.


    I shot her a nce. Come and see for yourself.


    Fengshen Nana skeptically touched the puddle of blood, retreating her hand in fright immediately after. Whats happening? This blood is too cold... Its like ice.


    I nodded. Tell me, what animal has ice-cold blood?


    Fengshen Nana shook her head. Just tell me. Dont keep me in suspense.


    Snakes have ice-cold blood, I said. Your uncle said that he wanted toy eggs, and snakes alsoy eggs to reproduce. I suspect that a snake is tormenting your uncle.


    A snake monster? Nana''s aunt was startled. My husband is afraid of snakes the most. He always steps aside when he sees them. Howe a snake monster is tormenting my husband?


    Im not sure. Ill need some time to investigate the matter. Aunty, give me Zhao Dafas address. Im going to see him, I asked.


    Nana''s aunt was worried. Did that Zhao Dafa do something to my husband? It was just a trivial fight between kids, and the adults got a little heated. Was it really necessary to go that far?


    Its just a guess for now, dont tell anybody about it. Leave this matter to us and act as if nothing has happened.


    Nana''s aunt nodded reluctantly.


    Li Mazi and I prepared to leave, but just as we turned around, a rustling sound echoed from under the bed.


    I furrowed my brows. It felt as if something was crawling on the ground.


    I halted and nced in the direction of the bed. However, I couldnt see what was below due to the bedsheet.


    Aunty, I called out. Do you have a pet snake in your house?


    Nana''s aunt shook her head. Of course not. My husband is scared of snakes the most.


    I took a deep breath. Li Mazi, help me move the bed.


    Li Mazi forced a smile. Little Brother Zhang, I dont fear death, but I sure as hell fear snakes. Tell me, is there a snake underneath the bed?


    I said, Im not sure, but we must move the bed aside.


    Li Mazi could only brace himself and do as I said.


    As soon as we moved the bed aside, a screeching sound echoed.


    I got a scare and quickly threw the bed aside, carefully scanning the area.


    Then, I gawked in shock. Never would I have expected to find a horde of small animals underneath the bed. There were snakes, hedgehogs, and mice. The ce beneath the bed had be their nest.


    There was a hole down there, and the animals lived inside it. When they saw us, they hid further into their hole, disappearing from our sight.


    Oh my God! Nana''s aunt screamed and tumbled to the ground.


    I immediately lifted her up and asked Fengshen Nana to pour her a cup of water to calm her down.


    When she finally got a hold of herself, she cried. Oh God, what evil sin have wemitted? Why did those filthy animalse and nest in my house? Husband, what am I supposed to do if you die?


    Nana''s aunt cried so hard that she attracted the attention of the neighbors. They came and surrounded the house.


    Left with no choice, I asked Fengshen Nana to calm her aunt down. Otherwise, it would be much more troublesome to solve this problem.


    After we hadforted her, Nana''s aunt recovered a bit.


    I exhaled in relief and asked, Were you really unaware that there were some small animals living underneath your bed? After all, they stink and must have made some noise.

 Chapter 221: The Five Immortals of the Northeastern Region

    Chapter 221: The Five Immortals of the Northeastern Region


    Nana''s aunt shook her head. I didnt know. Ive been staying at my eldest sons apartment for most of the time to take care of his son. Ive rarelye back here. My husband has spent more time home than I have. How could he not find them?


    Li Mazi kept observing the floor. Eventually, he walked up to us and said, I can tell that those things have been here for at least one month. When we arrived in the room, we immediately heard some noise. I refuse to believe that Old Chef has never heard anymotion.


    I thought about the matter then said, Its possible that he wasnt in his right mind at night. Some evil spirit might have been messing with him.


    Li Mazi nodded and said, Yeah, its possible.


    Please, you must save my husband! Nana''s aunt cried again.


    I tried tofort her. When she calmed down, she continued, I dont understand. Didnt they say that the House Protecting Immortals would protect ones house? Why do they want to harm my husband? Although he doesnt worship the House Protecting Immortals, he has never hurt any of those small animals.


    Hold on, what did you just say? I suddenly got a very important clue.


    Nana''s aunt was puzzled. I guessed she didnt get what I meant and thought that she had said something wrong.


    I asked, You just mentioned the House Protecting Immortals, right?


    My eyes moved to the hole. Mice, snakes, and hedgehogs these three animals belonged to the five making up the House Protecting Immortals; the other two were Fox Immortal and Weasel Immortal. Perhaps thest two werent popr in this area, which prevented them from appearing in this house.


    Was it possible that the Five Immortals of the Northeastern Region were the ones messing with poor Old Chef? But why would they want to do that?


    My imagination started to run wild.


    In Northeastern China, the House Protecting Immortals were famous due to the Riding Immortal ritual.


    Riding Immortal was a form of shamanic ritual performed by the shamans to expel and eliminate monsters and ghosts.


    To perform the ritual, they would need two items, the Literary King Drum and the Military King Whip. By using these two tools and the matching chant, the shaman could invite the House Protecting Immortals to protect the house and expel the evil spirits.


    Was the drum that Old Chef had mentioned the Literary King Drum? Also, when he said that he wanted toy eggs, he was probably possessed by the Snake Immortal.


    It seems Ive discovered part of the truth. I said coldly, Aunty, I have a question. Zhao Dafa is from the Northeastern region, right? Does his family worship the memorial tablet of the House Protecting Immortals?


    Nana''s aunt wore a dumb-struck face and said, Im sorry, but I dont really know. I have never visited his house before. However, its true that he is from the Northeastern area of China. The neighbors in this building all know this.


    I smiled and said to her, This matter seems to be closely rted to Zhao Dafa! Fengshen Nana, well need to part ways here. If possible, we should deal with this matter today. You have to bring your uncle home as soon as possible. Try everything in your power; resort to bribery if you have to. Li Mazi and I will keep an eye on Zhao Dafa. We want to see if we can get any clues from him.


    Fengshen Nana was hesitant for a while but eventually nodded. Okay, if Zhao Dafa has plotted against my uncle. Hell have to pay the price.


    I forced a smile. Lets leave revenge forter. We dont have time to waste. We have to move now.


    Li Mazi and I sneakily went to Zhao Dafas apartment.


    The Zhao family lived on the second floor. It was broad daylight, but his windows were closed. The apartment was dead silent. We didnt catch any bit of sound from the outside.


    It could mean that Zhao Dafa had already set up his vendor stall outside and was doing business.


    However, I didnt understand one thing. How could a small vendor like him, who sold food by the street, buy such a good apartment? Even if he rented the ce, it would still be very expensive. It should cost at least five or six thousand renminbi per month. How could a farmer who grew vegetables bear this expense?


    Li Mazi stood by the window and peeped in for a while. However, the window ss panels were some sort of special ss that only allowed the people inside the room to see the outside and not vice versa. That was why we couldnt see what was inside the apartment from here.


    Li Mazi suggested, How about we break the window and get in? Im sure we could collect some evidence. If we get evidence, I dont think that Zhao Dafa will dare to ignore it.


    I thought it over for a while, but in the end, I rejected Li Mazis suggestion.


    Were here to save a man, not to chase after a murderer. If we alert Zhao Dafa, he might think about fleeing or attacking us. If we want to untie the knot, we need to find the one who tied it. Im not sure if we can save Old Chef without him.


    Li Mazi had a headache and cursed, This is too damnplicated. There are so many people to mess with. Why did Old Chef have to choose this Northeastern old man?


    It was pointless to discuss this matter any further. We could only wait until Zhao Dafa closed his vendor stall and returned home.


    However, I couldnt figure out why a man with such skills worked in the food market to earn a living. He was an interesting person. Did he want to experience an ordinary life that much?


    Li Mazi and I went to find a ce to hide. We decided to stay and watch from there.


    We hid and watched until the night fell, but we didnt even see Zhao Dafas shadow. Fengshen Nana called me and said that she had already picked up her uncle. She was downstairs and told us to help her.


    Li Mazi and I could only give up on our task for the time being. We walked downstairs to see Old Chef.


    Old Chef looked even worse than before. There was no focus in his eyes. Moreover, he was drooling, and his teeth ttered nonstop.


    When Li Mazi approached him, Old Chef abruptly opened his mouth and tried to bite Li Mazi. Furious, Li Mazi stealthily pinched him.


    The three of us had to struggle quite a bit to bring Old Chef back to his apartment. As soon as we got into his ce, he started to wiggle restlessly. He roared and screamed, Let me out! Let me out! I dont want to stay here!


    His fear seemed toe from the bottom of his heart. I assumed that he had endured extraordinary torment while living here.


    Old Chef panicked and ran around the apartment. He really wanted to run away. We couldnt stop him, so we had to find a big rope and tie him up. Then, we threw him onto the couch, where he finally calmed down.


    After seeing that the pir of the family had turned into a madman, Nanas aunt was heartbroken. She came and hugged her husband. Husband, what happened to you? Please, open your eyes and look at me. You have to hold on! If something bad happens to you, how can I continue to live


    Old Chef rolled his eyes at his wife like he was looking at a stranger. I called and pulled the poor woman to one side as I was afraid that Old Chef would hurt her.


    Old Zhao, youvee home reallyte today. All of a sudden, we heard people greet each other outside.


    Yeah, the business was pretty good today. Come here, friend. Take these mung bean sprouts.


    When we heard those people greet each other outside, Nana''s aunts anger burst out. That damn Zhao Dafa is back! Im going to bring him and ask for an exnation!


    I immediately stopped her. Aunty, calm down. You cant let the anger cloud your mind; just leave this matter to us. Nana, you stay here and watch your uncle. Dont let him run away. Li Mazi and I will take care of the rest.


    Fengshen Nana nodded and said, If you need help out there, just call out loud.


    Okay, I said then left with Li Mazi.


    As soon as we got out of the door, we saw Zhao Dafa.


    Zhao Dafa looked around fifty or sixty years old. He was pushing a three-wheeled cart that held a lot of vegetable baskets.


    After Zhao Dafa secured and locked his three-wheeled cart, he went upstairs. The man had a gray beard and a hunched back. He limped strenuously the entire upstairs. It was as if he could fall off the stairs at any minute.


    His pitiful appearance could easily get others attention and make them sympathize with him. If we didnt know the inside story, we would have never thought that this man had a n to murder his neighbor.


    As I was thinking, Zhao Dafa almost reached the final step. We didnt know why, but he turned his head to look at us all of a sudden.


    The moment our eyes met, I suddenly felt scared. <em>Damn, did he see through us?</em>


    I tried to sound calm as I said, Sir, does that small vegetable cart belong to you?


    Zhao Dafa became tense. I-Is Is something the matter?


    Im from the property management unit. Some people haveined that youve parked your vehicle incorrectly, which affected other people''s parking as well. Could you park it properly somewhere else?


    Zhao Dafa exhaled in relief; he had bought my story. Right after that, he went downstairs to move his cart aside. He didnt evenin or ask why.


    However, because of that, I was even more sure that he was hiding something. If he didnt do anything that made him feel guilty, why would he be afraid of peopleing to his door? Still, it was beyond my expectation to learn that Zhao Dafas character was pretty good.


    After we waited for Zhao Dafa to finish moving his cart, Li Mazi and I left to prevent people from suspecting us. After Zhao Dafa went upstairs and entered his apartment, we stealthily followed him. We stood by his door to listen to the movements inside his house.


    Zhao Dafa was probably very tired. Not long after he got in his bed, we started to hear his snoring.


    Li Mazi couldnt stay idle. So, were just waiting here and watching Zhao Dafa sleep?


    I said helplessly, Why dont you go back and check on Fengshen Nanas uncle? Ill stay here to watch him.


    Li Mazi nodded and said, All right, lets do that. After all, its going to be more suspicious with the two of us here. Were more likely to be busted.


    Then, Li Mazi went downstairs while I stayed in the corner and watched the door.


    Not long afterward, I heard some noisesing from the room.


    Zhao Dafa had stopped snoring. Right after that, I heard him sigh in a daze. He muttered, How did things turn to this?


    I knew this sigh of his meant trouble. I pricked my ears and tried my best to get more information. Not long after that, I heard footsteps in the room, followed by the sounds of someone rummaging to find something.


    The rummaging noise stopped shortly after. However, Zhao Dafa kept silent for quite a long time. Then, I heard him hit a drum.


    The drum sound was heavy, hoarse, and dull. It was very different from what I had imagined. It resounded once and was followed by silence.


    Then, I heard a shaman dance.


    Its getting dark and the sun has set in the West. Birds are flying back to the mountain, and tigers are returning to the forest. We worship you and we invite you, Immortals. At first, we would like to invite the Fox, then the Yellow Weasel. Then we invite the third, the Snake, and the fourth


    I felt my hair stand on end as I listened to the chant. <em>Hes performing the shaman dance to invite the House Protecting Immortals!</em>


    Not long after he had started to sing and dance, I felt a cold wind blow behind me. It was so chilly that I had goosebumps all over my arms.


    I turned around, and a dark shadow stood behind me. The shadow had a pointy face and a strange-shaped head, as well as a wretched smile on its face.


    The shadow moved toward me, forcing me to step backward. I didnt dare to confront it directly, so I pretended to pass by and quietly descended the stairs.


    I didnt really leave but stood in the corner. I needed to watch that shadow. After the shadow floated and glided into Zhao Dafas apartment, I heard Zhao Dafa whisper something to that dark shadow. I couldnt hear what they were talking about or discussing, but I was sure that the shadow was reporting that it had seen me peeping at his house. Shortly after, Zhao Dafa pushed his door open and craned his neck out of the door to look.


    Luckily, I hid well. Otherwise, Zhao Dafa would have found me. However, someone suddenly poked my back.


    I jolted back in shock only to discover that it was Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi had an anxious, restless expression. Little Brother Zhang, things dont look good. You should go down and check on Old Chef.


    Lets go. I understood that something had happened to Old Chef. Without any hesitation, we descended the staircases.

 Chapter 222: Fight Against the Riding Immortals

    Chapter 222: Fight Against the Riding Immortals


    Old Chef had lost his mind and was running around the apartment, trying to bite whoever was in reach.


    Nana''s aunt was squatting on the ground and crying, but Old Chef didnt let her off. He directly went for his wifes neck.


    I was startled and shot towards, preparing to kick him away from the woman.


    However, Old Chef now possessed superhuman strength. He didnt even budge after my kick. Instead, it was I who lost bnce and tumbled to the ground; my whole body aching due to the impact.


    Old Chef eventually bit his wifes neck, who screamed in pain.


    Fengshen Nana immediately rushed forward and tried to pull her uncle away. However, Old Chef was simply too strong. He easily overpowered his niece and pinned her down.


    Li Mazi roared and grabbed a chair, trapping Old Chefs neck between the legs of the chair and pulling him away.


    Old Chef was enraged. He lifted the chair over his head and snatched it from Li Mazis hands despite the efforts of thetter.


    Then, before Li Mazi could react, he smashed the chair onto Li Mazis back. Although it was a wooden chair, it broke into pieces due to the impact.


    Li Mazi screamed and fell on the ground, twitching all over.


    You bastard! I was furious and decided not to hold back. I grabbed the Sirius Whip, jumped forward, andshed it on Old Chef.


    Although the Sirius Whip was powerful, it didnt have too much effect. I could only push Old Chef backward, but I couldnt hurt him. He agilely maneuvered behind me and charged over, trying to grab my neck.


    I took a deep breath and quickly turned around, forcing Old Chef to retreat one more time.


    The Sirius Whip was strong, but its force was reduced each time it was used. Aftershing the whip seven times, I made a mistake, and Old Chef caught the right opportunity to attack me.


    He abruptly lunged toward me and pressed me on the ground. I couldnt move even a little bit. He raised his hands and started to beat me up. I used all of my strength to resist him... but how could I match his superhuman strength?


    Li Mazi and Fengshen Nana rushed over to help me, but I couldnt avoid the beating.


    In this very critical situation, I forced myself to calm down to think about a countermeasure


    <em>What is the nemesis of the House Protecting Immortals?</em> I tried to recall this piece of information.


    <em>Thats right. Its the cat!</em>


    Rats, snakes, and even hedgehogs were all afraid of cats. Especially big, ck cats, whose Yang energy was high. I was sure it could subdue the House Protecting Immortals.


    I roared, Li Mazi, bring a big, ck cat here. Hurry!


    Okay! Li Mazi answered and rushed out of the room as I still wrestled against Old Chef.


    Meow. The moment I couldnt hold it anymore, I heard a cat meowing.


    <em>Weird... How could Li Mazi capture a ck cat that quickly?</em> I turned to the source of the noise, and it turned out to be Fengshen Nana.


    She had pressed her lips together and mimicked a cat cry. Although we could tell that this cat cry was fake, Old Chef was still scared. He jerked back and fled to the corner, curling up.


    When he realized that Fengshen Nana had just faked a cat cry, he was even more enraged. Without a moment of hesitation, he dashed forward and grabbed her throat, hurling her into the bathroom.


    Old Chef still wanted to attack her, so I grabbed the Sirius Whip and coiled it around his legs. Since the long whip was coiled around his legs, Old Chef couldnt walk properly and fell to the ground.


    I immediately jumped on him and grabbed his throat.


    At the same time, Li Mazi returned with a ck cat in his arms.


    The moment the ck cat saw Old Chef, it was excited. With a hissing cry, the cat dashed forward and wed at Old Chefs face.


    Old Chef was scared out of his wits and struggled to get out of this situation. However, the cat didnt let him off and kept scratching his face.


    Old Chef screamed and wiggled. Soon after, a cold wind blew out of his body; Old Chef stopped struggling andy weakly on the ground.


    A series of creaking noises resounded underneath the bed. Countless mice, snakes, and hedgehogs rushed out; they all tried to escape. The ck cat was fast enough, though. It chased and grabbed several mice.


    Then, we all heard a rumbling noise. A door had been kicked open upstairs.


    I remembered that Zhao Dafa was living up there. While he was performing the ritual, the cat had expelled the House Protecting Immortals. The technique must have backfired, so he should have chosen to escape in a panic.


    I called Fengshen Nana, Lets go. We need to stop Zhao Dafa.


    After a long wrestling session, I was already worn out and powerless. However, I gritted my teeth and gathered my strength to go upstairs. Zhao Dafas door was open, but it was dead silent inside. I was worried about a possible trap and grabbed a flower pot nearby before entering the apartment.


    The room was so quiet that even the sound of someone gasping for air was loud to our ears. I frowned and carefully looked around.


    The room was pit-ck because the lights were off. In the darkness, I heard Zhao Dafas voice. Come in! The younger generation will even surpass the old one. The light switch is on the left of the door.


    I reached to the left and switched the lights on. The room was illuminated shortly after. I saw Zhao Dafa lying motionless on the couch, clutching onto a broken drum. He was still breathing, but blood was oozing out from his nostrils and mouth. His breaths were short, and his face was as yellow as a candle.


    I said, Zhao Dafa, was it all your doing?


    Zhao Dafa couldn''t help butugh. Is there even a need to ask?


    Why did you do that? I asked coldly. Why did you want to harm him?


    I have nothing to say. Anyway, youre a capable man, so Im willing to die in your hands.


    Im sure there was a reason. I walked forward and sat opposite of Zhao Dafa. Tell me. Perhaps I can understand.


    Haha. Zhao Dafa sneered. I dont think Im going to survive regardless.

 Chapter 223: All Lives Are Equal

    Chapter 223: All Lives Are Equal


    He strenuously supported himself with his arms. After he sat properly, he grabbed some tissue papers to wipe the blood on the corners of his mouth.


    However, the more he wiped, the more his blood oozed out. He couldnt stop it.


    I furrowed my brows and said, Why dont you go to the hospital to get a check-up first?


    The more I looked at Zhao Dafa, the more I felt that he wasnt a bad man.


    Zhao Dafa was a little surprised. I guessed he hadnt expected me to care about his well-being.


    He smiled at me and said, Young man, do you want to know why I did those things to Old Chef?


    I nodded immediately.


    Zhao Dafa sighed. It was not I who wanted to harm him but the drum.


    Then, Zhao Dafa handed me his drum.


    I was surprised to receive the drum.


    The Northeastern shamans had a rule that said they couldnt show others their Literary King Drum and Military King Whip. Otherwise, it would bring them a fatal consequence or a lifetime of bad luck.


    I didnt expect that Zhao Dafa would show me his tool. Although I was surprised, I couldnt hold my curiosity and carefully observed the otherworldly item.


    It was a snakeskin drum with a t surface. Although it now had a hole in it, it was still extraordinarily tough.


    The drum body was made of bones connected to each other. I didnt know what kind of bone they were, but I knew that they werent dense inside because they seemed light. I guessed they were hollow, which allowed them to resonate easier. More importantly, the bones would be preserved well this way and wouldnt rot.


    The surface of the drum had turned a little yellow, and it was really tough. I guessed it had been soaked in corpse oil.


    I then studied the snakeskin that covered the drum. It was really hard. It had to be old.


    I looked at Zhao Dafa and asked, This snakeskin drum is a very valuable antique, right? I guess its first owner was a powerful person.


    Zhao Dafa looked pleased. He smiled and said, After many years, Ive finally found a man with keen eyes. Youre right. This snakeskin drum has several hundred years of history. Legend says that its first owner was the founder of the Five Immortals in the Northeastern area, the Golden Flower Goddess!


    He continued, Back then, the Golden Flower Goddess used this snakeskin drum to defeat the Old Monster of the ck Mountain. However, the drum was damaged during the battle, so the Golden Flower Goddess had to find a flood dragon, skin it, and take its bone to fix the drum. After that, this snakeskin drum was handed over to the future generations. Legends also say that this snakeskin drum has a wisp of the Goddesss soul in it, which sometimes gives the drum its own consciousness. It wasnt my idea to harm Old Chef but the snakeskin drums, said Zhao Dafa helplessly.


    What? I was dumbstruck. <em>It was the snakeskin drums idea? How did Old Chef offend the drum and make it hate him so much it wanted him to die?</em>


    Zhao Dafa patiently exined to me, Do you know what Old Chef does?


    Hes a chef, isnt he? I said.


    Zhao Dafa nodded, Thats right. Hes a chef, and a very good one at that. In his hotel, he made amazing stuff and was well respected. However, hes also a very cruel person. He has taken a lot of lives, not even letting off the descendants of the Northeastern Five Immortals.


    Zhao Dafa continued, His cooking skills are excellent, and anything he touches turns into a top-notch dish. Soft snake soup, steamed rat, baked hedgehog...


    Since hed taken so many lives, the Golden Flower Goddess was enraged. She told me to kill Old Chef and take revenge for those little animals. However, I knew that Old Chef was also helpless and didnt kill those animals out of malice. I told the Golden Flower Goddess to calm down and wait for me to convince Old Chef.


    Since animals were good by nature, the Golden Flower Goddess agreed with Zhao Dafas n.


    However, Old Chef ignored Zhao Dafas warning. He had even worsened the situation as he deemed that Zhao Dafa was spreading feudal superstitions. Eventually, the dispute between them escted, and Old Chef broke Zhao Dafas drum.


    This drum was Zhao Dafas most treasured item, and he could no longer keep his calm. He was prepared to teach Old Chef a lesson and take revenge for the House Protecting Immortals.


    Zhao Dafas retaliation n was to invite the Immortals and have them take turns to control Old Chefs body. He also sent some immature descendants of the Immortals to absorb the Yang energy in Old Chefs house, which almost killed him.


    However, I had intervened at the critical moment, ruining the ns of the spirit living in the drum, which had backfired on Zhao Dafa. Since Zhao Dafa had offended the Golden Flower Goddess, he wouldnt be able to perform the Riding immortals ritual anymore. If he did, the Immortals he invited would kill him on behalf of the Golden Flower Goddess.


    After listening to his story, I was speechless. The Golden Flower Goddess was a banded krait that had practiced until bing a deity. Although her origin was animal, just a wisp of her soul was strong enough to take a mans life. I didnt dare to look down on those small animals anymore.


    While I talked with Zhao Dafa, Fengshen Nana arrived with her aunt. Both of them were hurt, but that didnt affect her aunts anger. She jumped forward and scratched Zhao Dafas face. You evil bastard, you almost killed my husband! Im going to strangle you


    I stopped her and nced at Fengshen Nana. The policewoman angrily threw a pair of handcuffs to Zhao Dafa. Put them on!


    Zhao Dafa snorted. Why am I under arrest? You have no evidence.


    Fengshen Nana rolled her eyes at Zhao Dafa and said, You bastard, you almost killed my uncle! We have eyewitnesses and evidence here. Dont even think about denying it!


    Zhao Dafa forced a smile. What eyewitness? What evidence? I didnt even step into Old Chefs house. Moreover, even if I have to be judged, thats not up to you.


    Then, Zhao Dafa jolted up, and before we could react, he fiercely banged his head against the closet.


    The closet broke and Zhao Dafa fell to the ground. He twitched a few times theny still. He was dead.


    Fengshen Nana and her aunt dropped their jaws in shock. They didnt understand why Zhao Dafa had killed himself.


    However, I knew why he had tomit suicide. Zhao Dafa had performed the Riding Immortals ritual for almost his whole life. And now, he had offended the very people he worshipped, which would trouble him for the rest of his life. Since he knew he wouldnt have a decent deathter, it was better for him to end his life this way, which could help him earn the Golden Flower Goddesss forgiveness.


    Zhao Dafas death was ruled as suicide. Since Fengshen Nana had used her phone to record the event, we were released immediately.


    I took the snakeskin drum, and as Zhao Dafa didnt have kids or rtives, there was no one to hold his funeral. I prepared his funeral and bought a slot in the public graveyard for him. It could be considered the payment for taking his snakeskin drum!


    Later in my career, I encountered many cases in which animals took revenge on humans.


    All lives were equal, and even those of small animals mattered.


    I once read a news article about a senior student from Tsinghua University who boiled ten kittens to death. Eventually, his entire family was diagnosed with cancer and died horrible deaths.


    Id even witnessed a simr case with my own eyes. A chef bought a pangolin with his own money before the poor animal was cooked. He then released it back into the wild so that it could take care of its offspring. One yearter, his sons school bus fell off a bridge, which caused fifty deaths. His son was the only survivor!


    Animals remembered gratitude and grudges. All lives were worth receiving respect, and may all the animals in this world, big or small, be well!

 Chapter 224: Five Immortals Records

    Chapter 224: Five Immortals Records


    After I wrapped up Old Chefs case, Fengshen Nana respected me more. Youre really incredible. You should join the police force to contribute to our society!


    I forced a smile and said, Im not as noble as you think!


    Fengshen Nana was disappointed. However, she still asked me to keep her business card in case I changed my mind. She could give me some rmendations.


    I looked at her figure and didnt know whether tough or cry. I wondered why a beautiful woman like her had decided to be a policewoman. Wasnt she afraid of getting hurt?


    After I returned to my shop, I spent almost every day studying the snakeskin drum. One day, while I was searching through the ancient books my grandfather had left in the shop, I found a book called Five Immortals Records, which was about the old stories of the Northeastern Five Immortals.


    The book had a clear description of the chant that could invite the Immortals. It also mentioned the ancient snakeskin drum.


    I was surprised. I had never thought that my grandfather had such a vast collection. He had even collected books about the Riding Immortals ritual.


    I was attracted by the contents of the book. I stopped leaving my shop and stayed inside my room, carefully studying the Five Immortal Records every day.


    I didnt know how long it had passed when I heard someone bang on my door. Eventually, I returned to my senses.


    When I got a hold of myself, I felt so weak and exhausted that I couldnt even walk. I grabbed a bottle of mineral water and gulped it down.


    I wobbled absent-mindedly to the entrance. When I opened the door, I saw Yin Xinyue.


    She screamed as soon as she saw me, Brother Zhang, how did you turn into this?!


    I furrowed my brows and looked at Yin Xinyue in puzzlement. Whats wrong?


    Dont you have a mirror in your shop? Yin Xinyue grabbed me and pulled me into the shop. Here, take a look at yourself.


    I was startled after seeing my image in the mirror. Disheveled wasnt enough to describe me at this moment. I looked like a caveman who hadnt been enlightened or civilized. My face and hair were greasy with dirt. I was wearing a pair of boxers and an undershirt. My skin looked dark, and I was covered in ayer of sweat.


    I cursed, Holy crap, how did I turn into this? Wait for a moment. Im going to take a shower.


    However, everything turned ck as I took a step. I had fainted.


    I didnt know how long it had passed when I was awakened by Yin Xinyues voice. I opened my drowsy eyes and looked at her. She seemed restless and worried.


    I forced a smile and said, Im so hungry


    So you can still feel hunger! Yin Xinyue felt distressed and said, Im going to cook you a bowl of noodles. Wait a minute.


    Then, she went to the kitchen to cook some noodles.


    I was puzzled. <em>Hasnt it been just one day? How did I turn into this?</em>


    I tried to get up from my bed and said, Xinyue, how long have I been unconscious?


    Yin Xinyue said, Around three hours. I was really scared.


    Oh, I nced at the window and saw that it was dark outside. I took out my phone to check the time. I was dumbstruck right after that.


    Xinyue, wait, dont cook yet. Come here, I need to ask you something. I called at Yin Xinyue.


    Yin Xinyue said, If you have something to ask, just do it.


    Whats todays date? I asked.


    April the fifteenth. Yin Xinyue answered.


    Shoot. I got a chill down my spine. I havent left my house for three days and havent eaten anything. No wonder I feel so weak.


    What? Yin Xinyue looked at me in puzzlement. I think youre so hungry that youre seeing things. You might be suffering from depression; you should go see a doctor.


    Im telling the truth, I said. I clearly remembered that it was April the tenth when I finished Fengshen Nanas case. On April the twelfth, I found the Five Immortals Records left by my grandfather. I was so absorbed with the book that I didnt even leave my table


    It was pretty scary. Was I bewitched by the book? I was certain that it wasnt a normal book.


    I rushed to my desk to check, but it was empty. Nothing was there.


    Yin Xinyue ced a bowl of noodles in front of me. Eat it quickly. Dont let it cool down.


    I was starving and didnt have time to think about the Five Immortals Records. I wolfed the food down. After eating, I lit a cigarette. Yin Xinyue, did you see the book, Five Immortals Records? I ced it on the desk.


    Yin Xinyue was puzzled. Have you really gone mad? Whats this Five Immortal Records? When I cleaned your room, I only saw a dictionary on your desk. You wrote a lot of mysterious symbols on it. Youre acting really strange, you know?


    Where is it? I asked Yin Xinyue to bring me the dictionary. I couldnt believe that I had spent three days and nights on a freaking dictionary.


    Yin Xinyue took out the dictionary from my bookshelf. I took a nce at it, and my eyes widened in surprise. It was true that I had spent three days reading this dictionary because I recognized those small, strange symbols. I had marked them.


    I tried to search through my memory to remember what I had done during the past few days. However, my brain was nk; I couldnt recall anything. In other words, those pieces of memories were a hallucination of mine and they didnt exist.


    <em>Whats going on? Could it be that this dictionary has a problem?</em>


    I held the dictionary and checked it thoroughly. However, I found nothing strange about it. I cut the tip of my middle finger and dripped a drop of blood on it. The blood seeped into the dictionary, but there was no reaction.


    This dictionary wasnt an otherworldly item.


    If the dictionary wasnt an otherworldly item, had someone put a spell on me and caused me to be in a daze for three days? This idea scared me out of my wits. If Yin Xinyue hadnte to visit me, I might have died.


    Whats wrong? Yin Xinyue looked at my pale face and wiped the cold sweat on my forehead.


    Somethings wrong. This situation isnt right. Xinyue, when you came here, did you see any suspicious person around my shop?


    Yin Xinyue thought for a while. A suspicious person? Ah, if you didnt mention this, I would have forgotten already. When I arrived at the shop, I saw a beautiful girl. She stood at your shop front and looked around. She even peeped through the door. I asked her what she was doing, but she didnt answer me.


    Damn, we have to catch that woman! I screamed.


    Yin Xinyue stopped me and said, Shes already gone. Who are you going to catch out there?


    I didnt give up. I rushed to the door and checked, but no one was around.


    I could only return to my shop. Why didn''t you stop her at that time?


    Yin Xinyue answered, I didnt dare to. That girl looked a little scary.


    Scary? Why? I was curious.


    It was broad daylight, but she was holding an umbre. Moreover, she had a red rope around her neck. That was already creepy enough for me. Although she was pretty, her face was too pale


    She held an umbre in broad daylight? I frowned.


    Yin Xinyue suddenly became tense, as if she had something on her mind. Wait, dont tell me that she was a ghost?


    After seeing Yin Xinyues pale face, Iforted her. We dont know yet. Theres no need to be scared.

 Chapter 225: The Woman Who Held an Umbrella in Daylight

    Chapter 225: The Woman Who Held an Umbre in Daylight


    Dont you feel that something is off? I asked. Li Mazi used to visit my shop almost every day to drink. Sometimes hed skip a day, but there is no way he wouldnt show up for three days straight. If hede to visit me, I would have woken up already.


    Yin Xinyue said, Now that you mention it, I think theres something wrong with Li Mazi.


    What?


    Ru Xues on a business trip, and shes called Li Mazi every day since then. However, every time she called, Li Mazi would pick up the phone but not say a word. Its been like that for three or four days. Ru Xue was worried about him, so she asked me to go to his house to check on him. I did go to his house but the door was locked. Thats why I thought he went to your antique shop. I came here and then found you in your current predicament.


    Thats bad. Li Mazi might be in danger! I understood that something was indeed wrong.


    <em>Perhaps hes also trapped in some sort of illusion and unable to leave his house!</em>


    <em>I woke up because Yin Xinyue came to see me, but if no one goes to disturb Li Mazi, wouldnt he keep hallucinating until he dies?</em>


    I took a deep breath and hurried to leave the shop with Yin Xinyue. We headed to Li Mazis house without further ado.


    Li Mazis door was locked. We called him several times from the outside, but no one answered. I directly climbed over his wall and intruded on his property. When I got in through the window, I saw Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi and his son were sitting down on the door sill. Li Mazi held a cellphone, and both he and his son stared at it.


    However, the phone was dead; there was only a ck screen. Li Mazi and Li Meng looked like they were watching an awesome movie because they sometimesughed. It looked really bizarre.


    Sure enough, they were also hallucinating.


    I snatched the phone from Li Mazis hands. He was startled and lifted his head, looking at me. Little Brother Zhang, you Why are you here?


    I snarled, If I hadnte, you two would have died!


    Then, I examined Li Meng. His eyes had no focus, and his upper body was shaking hard; his face was also pale. I turned to Li Mazi, and he didnt look better than his son.


    I hurried to support Li Meng. Hey, buddy, are you okay?


    Li Meng opened his eyes and said, Uncle Zhang. Then, he copsed.


    Hurry, lets bring him to the hospital! I lifted Li Meng and put him over my shoulder, rushing toward the door. Li Mazi didnt know what was going on and said feebly, Whats happened to my son? Is he okay?


    However, after two strides, Li Mazi also copsed onto the ground due to exhaustion. Yin Xinyue hurried to support him and brought him to our car.


    We took them both to the hospital for check-ups. I was finally able to heave a sigh of relief as they were just dehydrated and exhausted. After receiving some saline and glucose solutions, they gradually recovered.


    Li Mazi was annoyed. Freaking phones are really harmful. I wont touch them anymore.


    I coldly said, The phone is not the problem. Tell me, how long did you sit at the door sill?


    Li Mazi looked at the sunrise outside the window. I think the whole night? But if I had been sitting there for only one night, I shouldnt be so exhausted.


    I tossed his phone at him then motioned at the digital clock on the wall. You should check the time yourself.


    After ncing at it, Li Mazi screamed, Shoot, that digital clock is broken, right? How could I sit there for three nights in a row?


    Nothing is impossible, I said, telling him about my own experience.


    After listening to me, Li Mazi was puzzled. Did they plot against us? Moreover, who is that woman with the umbre? I want to give her a good lesson!


    I sighed and said, Im not sure, and Im afraid she fled already. You should take care of your body and recover first. Im going home to see if I can find any clues.


    But how could Li Mazi stay idle in the hospital? He got up from his bed and yanked the needle out of his vein. He wanted to go home with me.


    Left with no choice, I had to bring Li Mazi with me back to the shop.


    Fortunately, my antique shop was equipped with cameras. I decided to check the surveince videos first.


    I found the recordings from three days ago. It was also the day I found the Five Immortal Records.


    In the video recording, I got up early in the morning and went straight to my storage to rummage for something. Shortly after, I found a very thick book. Through the screen, I could even see the title of the said book. It had the words Chinese Language Dictionary on its cover.


    I ced the dictionary on my desk and began to study it. Although my eyes were bright and full of spirit, I didnt move. It looked as though I was frozen.


    Time ticked by, and I had been at my desk for three hours. Other than scratch my head from time to time, I didnt do anything else.


    However, the door to the storage was pushed open shortly after, and a woman walked in. She held an umbre and had a red rope around her neck, which made her look really odd.


    The moment I saw her, I felt strong fear. <em>When did she get in, and howe I didnt notice her? Is she a real ghost? But even if shes a ghost, I should still be able to detect her...</em>


    I had a strong feeling that I was already bewitched the moment I entered my storage room. That was why I mistook the dictionary for the Five Immortal Records book.


    The woman with the umbre came over and sat opposite to me. However, I didnt mind her and continued reading my book.


    All of a sudden, she pulled out a concentric lock with a chain attached to it. She started to dangle the lock in front of my eyes, and my dreamy eyes moved to her body. However, I didnt look frightened or surprised. My face was strangely calm


    You were hypnotized! screamed Li Mazi. Sure enough, this is hypnosis!


    I took a deep breath and said, Its not that simple. Even if I got hypnotized, it shouldnt be for so many days, right? Lets just keep watching.


    The womans mouth opened and closed as if she was talking to me. However, the surveince video recording didnt record sound. That was why we didnt hear anything. Anyway, I guessed she was asking me about something.


    We didnt know what it was, but the red-dressed woman was eventually enraged. She mmed the desk, stood up, and left.


    A momentter, I went back to reading my book. I remained in that position until Yin Xinyue came. For the entire time, I didnt move and just stared at the book.


    I took a deep breath. <em>Why cant I remember that woman? If she could control me so well, she has to be an expert...</em>


    I couldnt ease the worry in my heart.


    Knock, knock, knock!


    As we were studying the video recordings, we heard someone knock on my door.


    I already felt panicked, so I couldnt help but be tense.


    Whos there? I asked.


    Merciful Buddha. My little friend, are you all right?


    It was Zen Master Baimeis voice!


    It was strange that Zen Master Baimei came right at this moment. I knew that if he was here, it was somehow rted to the woman with the umbre. I cheered up and hurried to open the door for him.


    He wore a kasaya and held prayer beads in one hand. Coupled with his white beard, he looked like a sage.


    Zen Master Baimei, its you. Pleasee in. I warmly weed him.


    Zen Master Baimei gave me a faint smile and walked in, his gentle eyes meeting mine.


    When he looked me in the eyes, his brows furrowed.


    I became tense. Zen Master Baimei, did something happen? Why are you here?


    Zen Master Baimei said, My little friend, have you encountered anything strange these days?


    I nodded. Yes, Master. Please,e in. I need to talk to you.


    Zen Master Baimei smiled cheerily. Exactly what I was hoping for.


    I brewed Zen Master Baimei some Longjing tea. While he drank the tea, I told him the strange things I had encountered.

 Chapter 226: The Japanese Nukekubi

    Chapter 226: The Japanese Nukekubi


    Somewhat depressed, I exined to Zen Master Baimei that I got hypnotized.


    After Zen Master Baimei heard my story, his eyebrows arched. It seems that she came for the Night Dragon Bait!


    The Night Dragon Bait? I was startled, unsure as to why the woman was looking for it.


    In a concerned voice, Zen Master Baimei said, In the past few days, a strange woman kept lingering outside Dabei Temple. She even attempted to hypnotize me, but I saw through her tricks and forced her to flee. I vaguely felt the aura of the Night Dragon Bait from her. I guess shes rted to it in some way or the other.


    I was shocked. She hypnotized us to find the Night Dragon Bait? Damn, I might have told her where it is while I was hypnotized...


    Who is she, and why does she want the Night Dragon Bait? Li Mazi asked, his face dark.


    Zen Master Baimei said, Im not sure, but the force behind her is very powerful. We cant face them directly. We must outsmart them.


    What force is it? I was still puzzled.


    In China, Buddhism was considered thergest force and had believers everywhere. If Zen Master Baimei was so afraid of the other party, they must be a force with equal power.


    I began to worry after hearing Zen Master Baimeis words.


    Do you know about Japanese Nukekubis? [1] asked Zen Master Baimei.


    Nukekubis? I furrowed my brows. I had heard about these monsters living in Japan, but what did Zen Master Baimei mean with his words? Was a monster pestering us?


    Yes, Nukekubis. The Japanese Nukekubi is not much different from the Thai Krasue. [2] Its a powerful monster whose head can detach from its body. They can walk under the sunlight, but they will need to use an umbre to do so. A Nukekubis head and body arent connected well, so they often use a red rope to cover their necks and conceal the cut.


    <em>No wonder that odd woman had a red rope around her neck</em>


    However, knowing that a monster was following us, I couldnt help but feel annoyed. How in the world had I provoked her?


    Do you know how to deal with a Nukekubi? I asked Zen Master Baimei.


    Zen Master Baimei took the Night Dragon Bait out of his loose sleeve and ced it in front of me. We can just wait for the prey toe to us. Im sure that the Nukekubi will take our bait.


    I nodded. We had to capture the Nukekubi tonight.


    However, I couldnt ease my mind as the Night Dragon Bait was in my shop. I stood guard without taking my eyes off the bead.


    The night quickly came. I looked outside my window, and the light from the street lights was much brighter than the dim deskmp I had ced on the table.


    The Night Dragon Bait started to release gentle, white light. Its surface looked like rippling water; the scene was beautiful.


    I was attracted by its magnificent appearance and kept admiring it.


    Around thirty minutester, I heard someone bang on the door.


    I immediately nced at Zen Master Baimei. His eyes were closed as he was still meditating. He didn''t even move his eyelids.


    Bang, bang, bang!


    The banging continued. I couldnt stay calm anymore, so I got up and prepared to open the door.


    As soon as I stood up, Zen Master Baimei opened his eyes and handed me his prayer beads. If you encounter any danger, use the Buddhist beads.


    I nodded and anxiously walked towards the door. Li Mazi followed closely behind me.


    Li Mazi ced his hand on the doors handle and gestured at me. I knew what he meant by this. No matter who was out there, we had to subdue it.


    I nodded.


    However, the moment the door opened, we found no one outside. It waspletely empty.


    I became even more cautious. I went outside and checked the whole area, not finding anyone around my remote antique shop.


    I sighed in disappointment and turned around to go back inside the shop, but as I turned around, I was scared out of my wits!


    A human head was floating right in front of my door. Its hair was long and messy, and it somewhat resembled a floatingntern. It was bobbing at my door but didnt seem to want to go inside.


    I didnt know when, but Zen Master Baimei was already standing at the door. He used his body to block the entrance. He palmed his hands together in front of his chest and said, Benefactor, why have youe here? How about we have a talk?


    However, the floating head didnt pay attention to Zen Master Baimei.


    I moved toward them to check what the heads face looked like.


    Then, I saw a beautiful womans face. A red rope was tied around her short neck, and her grape-like, pretty eyes gazed at us. Her face was very pale.


    Seeing that she wasnt replying, Zen Master Baimei gave me a nod. I knew that he wanted me to attack the woman. I immediately wielded the prayer beads and aimed at the floating head.


    However, the head moved agilely, dodging the prayer beads with extreme ease.


    My actions enraged her. She flew up and down to confuse me, then seized the right opportunity to attack.


    I thrust my hand into my pocket and took a handful of soya beans, throwing them at the head.


    The beans hit the head, creating a series of crackling explosions. However, she suffered next to no damage as she passed through the beans and charged at me.


    Terrified, I turned aside to dodge her attack. Zen Master Baimei reacted really quickly and read some incantations. The prayer beads I had thrown in the air maneuvered and followed the head. They flew after her.


    If the Nukekubi didnt dodge, shed get hit by the prayer beads. If she decided to dodge, shed have to give up on attacking me. <em></em>


    Apparently, the Nukekubi didnt want to get hit, so she decided to dodge. The moment she did that, a grating screech came out from her mouth, which didnt sound different from rubbing an awl against metal.


    The noise gave me goosebumps, and a chill ran down my spine.


    Her voice kept changing from low to high pitch, and even Zen Master Baimei couldnt resist. He covered his ears and looked at the head, unsure as to how to attack it.


    Crack!


    Then, I heard a crackle behind me. I turned around, and what I saw frightened me The Night Dragon Bait was cracked!


    A white light projected from the crack.


    The white light brought warmth with it. Although I stood far away, I still felt the heat.


    Zen Master Baimei sighed and said, Thats not good! Retreat, quick!


    The Nukekubi sneered then left.


    I nervously looked at Zen Master Baimei. Has the Night Dragon Bait been awakened? Did the soul living inside get released?


    Zen Master Baimei nodded and said, Its possible.


    Shoot, whats that? Li Mazi screamed in fear.


    I immediately gazed at the white light.


    I saw a dazzling figure inside the white light. The figure floated up and down as it sat on a dragon chair. I felt that she was a woman and a very powerful one at that. She had a majestic aura around her, and she looked at us with an expressionless face.


    I took a deep breath. This woman wasnt simple to deal with. Her nce alone could kill.


    As we stared at the scene in shock, the white light became stronger and expanded quickly; it could swallow us at any moment.


    Zen Master Baimei screamed, Run!


    Without thinking, I turned around to run away.


    However, how could we be faster than light? Shortly after, I was shrouded in white light. Everything in front of me turned white. Except for the blinding light, I couldnt see anything else.


    My body was frozen, and since my legs couldnt move, I turned my head around to look at the woman inside the white light.


    She wore a phoenix robe and a crown made of gold and silver, which made her look even more impressive. Whenever she smiled or furrowed her brows, she could shake peoples hearts.


    Her calm and cold eyes looked at me, and I felt an urge to get on my knees and bow to her. I couldnt control myself and was about to kneel and worship her.


    Dont get on your knees! While I was in a daze, I heard Zen Master Baimeis voice.


    My mind became much clearer. I tried to resist the urge and stood up. I looked at the woman and said with a fierce face, Get lost!


    The braver you were, the more evil spirits would be afraid of you. When I raised my voice, she was taken aback. She moved her eyes away from me, which made me feel relieved.


    Dont get on your knees! Zen Master Baimei roared again.


    I felt confused. I didnt kneel, so what did Zen Master Baimei mean by that? Was he referring to Li Mazi?


    I quickly turned to Li Mazi, and when I saw him, I felt distressed.


    Li Mazi was already on his knees, bowing to the woman.


    I wanted to immediately storm over and pull Li Mazi up. However, my body was still stiff. I was just a couple of steps away, but it took me a lot of time to reach him.


    While I struggled to get to Li Mazi, I saw the woman in the imperial robe approach him. Zen Master Baimei immediately shouted at me and asked me to leave Li Mazi; it was toote.


    I was reluctant to leave him. After all, how could I just watch as Li Mazi was getting attacked?


    However, not even Zen Master Baimei dared to get closer. If I went there and pulled Li Mazi up, I might just worsen things.


    Left with no choice, I had to retreat.


    If there was life, there was hope. Li Mazi was in danger, and if something bad happened to me as well, no one could save himter.


    The woman walked up to Li Mazi and jumped toward him.


    Li Mazi was in a daze and didnt react at all. I screamed his name, but he didnt hear me.


    The woman in the imperial robe disappeared into Li Mazis body. The light around us vanished. In just a blink of an eye, everything returned back to normal.


    Only the crack on the Night Dragon Bait was left to prove that it hadnt been a dream!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rokurokubi#Nukekubi


    2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krasue

 Chapter 227: Falling Into a Trap

    Chapter 227: Falling Into a Trap


    Li Mazi I squatted and tried to wake Li Mazi up. However, his body had no strength left. His listless eyes met mine. Then, his eyelids shut as heid still.


    Zen Master Baimei came over and ced Li Mazi t on the ground. He lifted his eyelids to check then sighed reluctantly. Carry him to the bed first! Use a rope thats soaked in ck dog blood and tie him with it.


    I worriedly asked, What happened to Li Mazi?


    Zen Master Baimei said, Im afraid his soul was damaged. We have to use ck dog blood to restrain him. We dont want his soul to vanish.


    I sighed and carried Li Mazi to the bed. After I had soaked the rope into ck dog blood, I tied him up. Zen Master, what should we do next?


    The Night Dragon Bait was a treasure of the imperial family. Im afraid that itll be hard to deal with the evil spirit living inside it, said Zen Master Baimei.


    I shivered. What will happen if we arent able to deal with it?


    In the best case, Li Mazi will lose his mind. In the worst case, hell die, Zen Master Baimei answered.


    I felt depressed; Li Mazi had been very unlucky.


    Brother-inw, brother-inw, open the door!


    While I had a headache watching Li Mazi, Ru Xues voice came from outside.


    My heart twitched. <em>If Ru Xue sees him like this, shell be devastated...</em>


    However, it wasnt something I could conceal. I absent-mindedly went to open the door. When Ru Xue saw me, she threw a bag at me.


    Brother-inw, this is a gift for you. Wheres Li Mazi? I heard from my sister that he came to your shop.


    Ru Xue, listen to me. Something happened to Li Mazi, but I assure you that hell be alright. I will save him.


    What? Ru Xue became scared and shivered. What happened to Li Mazi? Quick, let me see him!


    Without hesitation, she stormed into my shop.


    When Ru Xue saw Li Mazi, she started to panic. She rushed toward him and patted his face twice. Li Mazi, are you okay? Wake up!


    Li Mazis soul was damaged, so he couldnt hear Ru Xue at all. Heid still on the bed and didnt answer.


    Zen Master Baimeiforted her. Merciful Buddha. Please, dont disturb Benefactor Li while hes resting. If you affect his soul, the situation will worsen.


    Ru Xue started crying. Brother-inw, who is this old monk? Is he telling the truth?


    I was worried that Ru Xues loud crying would affect Li Mazis soul, so I asked her to go outside with me. Zen Master Baimei followed us.


    Ru Xue, although Li Mazis situation isnt that serious right now, if we dont take good care of him, his soul could vanish. So, you must not disturb him. Just let him rest here, I said.


    Ru Xue nodded and said, Brother-inw, you know how to save him, right?


    I could only nod to prevent her from worrying further. Zen Master Baimei, what should we do to save Li Mazi?


    Zen Master Baimei took a deep breath and said, Follow me. We need to find something.


    I nodded, Ru Xue, Im afraid youll have to take care of Li Mazi for the time being.


    Ru Xue quickly answered, Leave it to me. You guys should just go. Ill watch Li Mazi.


    I nodded. Before leaving, Zen Master Baimei gave Ru Xue his prayer beads. If Li Mazi tried to struggle out of the bind, she was to tie the prayer beads around his neck. This would keep his soul inside his body. If the string of beads was broken, she had to shove the beads into his mouth or even his anus. If Li Mazis soul got out of his body, not even Zen Master Baimei would be able to save him.


    Ru Xue nodded and told us not to worry. However, she didnt reach her hand out to receive the prayer beads and kept looking at Li Mazi. I could see tears in her eyes. Zen Master Baimei had to put the prayer beads on the table.


    Zen Master Baimei sighed. Those who have a lover are really unlucky at times. Then, he left with me.


    As we left, I still felt that something was wrong. Although Ru Xue had some feelings for Li Mazi, they hadnt crossed thest barrier yet. Ru Xue shouldnt treat Li Mazi that well, right? Yet, she acted like he was already her husband


    Moreover, when Ru Xue arrived, I saw that she was wearing strange clothing. I had never seen her wear that style before. Her clothes looked old-fashioned as if they were from the previous century!


    This doubt kept me on my nerves. Eventually, I stopped Zen Master Baimei. Zen Master, did you feel anything wrong about Ru Xue?


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head and said, No.


    I feel that there is something wrong about her. I need to call her to confirm things.


    Then, I took my phone out and hit Ru Xues number.


    The call got through shortly after. Ru Xues voice from the other end of the line sounded frantic. Brother-inw, I was just about to call you. How is Li Mazi? Did you check up on him?


    I felt my mink shake. Without hesitating, I asked, Ru Xue, where are you now?


    Ru Xue answered, Im in the car. Im going home and will arrive soon.


    I took a deep breath and tried to calm my nerves. I had to remain calm. Oh, I see. When you go home, you should visit Yin Xinyue first. Im going to fetch Li Mazi and well meet at Yin Xinyues ce.


    Then, I hung up. I turned to Zen Master Baimei and asked worriedly, Zen Master Baimei, the Ru Xue in the shop wasnt the real one. Could the Nukekubi be disguised as her?


    Zen Master Baimei furrowed his brows. Thats bad. Nukekubis are indeed good at using illusory magic. Its possible that weve been bewitched by her.


    <em>As expected! Just a few days ago, Li Mazi and I were hypnotized. We stayed at home for three days straight without eating or sleeping, almost losing our lives...</em>


    I felt a headache and hurried to return to the shop. Only God knew what the Nukekubi could do to Li Mazi while they were alone. If something bad happened to him, how could I exin things to Ru Xue?


    We rushed back to my antique shop.


    I directly kicked the door open, but the shop was empty. Ru Xue was nowhere to be seen, while Li Maziid unconscious on the bed.


    Li Mazi! Li Mazi! I immediately checked Li Mazis body. I wanted to know what the Nukekubi had done to him.


    However, I didnt find anything strange. Li Mazi didnt look much different from the time we left.


    Zen Master Baimei walked forward. His face tensed as he forced Li Mazi to open his mouth. As he asked me to shine a shlight into Li Mazis mouth, his face paled in shock.


    What happened, Zen Master?


    Zen Master Baimei said, Its the Soul Devouring Worm... Shes fed Li Mazi the Soul Devouring Worm!


    Whats the Soul Devouring Worm? Although I didnt know what the Soul Devouring Worm was, I was sure it wasnt anything good.


    Zen Master Baimei said, As the name suggests, the Soul Devouring Worm can devour Li Mazis soul. Once his soul is eaten up, the evil spirit from the Night Dragon Bait will take his ce. When that happens, Li Mazi will die.


    I felt my mind shake. What should we do now? Can we use some insecticide to kill the worm?


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head. Of course not. Hurry,e with me. We need to find the Soul Luring Worm!


    Whats the Soul Luring Worm? I asked as I lifted Li Mazi up.


    Since Li Mazi had turned into this, I couldnt leave him in my shop. We had to carry him with us.


    Zen Master Baimei said, Everything in this world has a nemesis. If theres a worm that can devour the soul, there will also be a worm that can lure the soul out.


    Zen Master Baimei held the Night Dragon Bait in his hand and gently turned it around. While admiring it, he said, This Night Dragon Bait is really troublesome.


    Since we had no time to waste, we left in a hurry.


    After leaving the shop, Zen Master Baimei bought a big chunk of fatty meat from a nearby butcher shop. He burned it for a while to melt therd. Then, he asked me to keep it.


    Then, he brought me to a spooky forest.


    The forest wasnt far from our neighborhood. A big hospital was situated here. However, since it was in a remote corner, not many people came to visit it.


    The government had attempted to exploit the area. However, whenever they did something, a lot of strange things happened. Left with no choice, they had to stop the work.


    I had even heard rumors that the forest was where the hospital buried dead infants and discarded some specimens.


    The forest was dark and quiet. The light from our shlight couldnt pierce through the endless darkness.


    The ground was covered in rotten leaves and medical waste. If we were careless, we would possibly step on some needles.


    Moreover, many dead cats and dogs were hung on the trees here. Some had their skin peeled and torn. Blood dripped from their bodies, and the whole scene was horrible.


    I couldnt understand why some young people liked to torture small animals for excitement. Werent they afraid of retribution?

 Chapter 228: Soul Luring Worm

    Chapter 228: Soul Luring Worm


    We entered the dark forest. Just as I thought we had reached the inner part, my legs began to feel like jelly, and I was out of breath. Zen Master Baimei eventually stopped and looked around. He licked his finger then raised it, quietly sensing his surroundings.


    I was curious. What are you doing?


    Zen Master Baimei replied, I want to check if there are some Soul Luring Worms here. The ce where the Soul Luring Worms gather often has thick Yin energy.


    After a while, he said, Good. Its here. Then, he pointed at a corner. Throw therd there.


    I threw the fat, greasy chunk of meat over the spot he had pointed at. Then, Zen Master Baimei began to walk ording to a special pattern. Using his feet, he drew many patterns on the ground. It seemed he was arranging a magic formation.


    After everything was prepared, he casually tore a piece of fabric from his kasaya and shoved it into the meat. He then brought me behind a tree to hide.


    Shortly after, the smell of fat from the greasy pork attracted a lot of mosquitoes and flies. As they flew, they buzzed loudly; the noises gave me a headache.


    After a short moment, many flies covered the entire chunk of pork. We couldnt see the meat anymore, only green flies.


    Zen Master Baimei said, Im sure there is a corpse around here. Otherwise, there wouldnt be so many green flies. Since Soul Luring Worms also feast on corpses, there must be one around.


    I nodded as I expectantly watched the thick chunk ofrd. The Soul Luring Worms were Li Mazis only hope. If we couldnt find the worms, Li Mazi would be in grave danger.


    While I was in deep thought, the green flies that had gathered on the meat dispersed. It was as if they had sensed something very scary.


    At the same time, the temperature dropped sharply. I felt goosebumps rising on my skin, but I didnt look away from the thickrd.


    Zen Master Baimei warned me, The Soul Luring Worms are about toe. When theye, do not act rashly and do not alert them. Otherwise, it will be very hard to capture themter.


    I nodded and said, All right.


    From a distance, we heard a rustling sound. Although it was barely audible in the loud wind, I could still hear it.


    I tracked down the source of the noise and saw a pair of round and bright eyes looking around stealthily. Although the surroundings were quiet with nomotions, the creature didnt dare to approach.


    I was worried. What if this Soul Luring Worm doesnt take the bait? What should we do then?


    Zen Master Baimei smiled. Dont worry. Ive set up a formation to attract it.


    Sure enough, the creature hesitated for a while but eventually couldnt resist the temptation of therd. It gingerly walked in.


    When it got closer, I discovered that it wasnt a worm but a weird-looking rat. The rats body was double the size of a normal rat, it had a round belly, and strange light shed in its two small, round eyes. It looked really creepy.


    The rat approached the meat and started to wolf it down after confirming that there was no danger.


    Although the delicacy was right in front of it, the rat was extremely cautious. It kept an eye on its surroundings.


    I was so anxious that my palms started to sweat. I asked Zen Master Baimei, Should we charge over there to catch it? If I had known earlier, I would haveced the meat with some drug.


    Zen Master Baimei said with a smile, It has already fallen into the trap.


    Then, he began to mutter something as his hands made strange seals. As I was still thinking about what he was doing, I saw the strip of kasaya he had shoved into the meat stretch and wrap around the rat.


    The rat was frightened. It jumped and tried to escape.


    However, the kasaya was like a bear trap. No matter how much the rat struggled, it couldn''t get away. It had beenpletely subdued.


    Zen Master Baimei calmly walked toward it. I, on the other hand, couldnt keep my calm and rushed forward, pressing the rat under my body.


    The rat turned its head to bite me, so I pped it in a fit of rage. Although stunned, the rat opened its mouth wider and kept trying to bite me.


    Zen Master Baimei stepped on its head, took out a shining dagger, and pressed it on the rats tummy.


    I immediately restrained its four legs. However, Zen Master Baimei seemed reluctant to take action.


    I urged him to seize the time and kill it. Li Mazi cant wait any longer.


    Zen Master Baimei reluctantly dropped his dagger. Merciful Buddha, all lives in this world are equal. I cant do it.


    Ill do it. Just leave this sinful action to me, I said.


    Even if I dont kill it directly, it would have died because of me. Ill feel guilty, regardless.


    This will have nothing to do with you. I snatched the dagger from him and fiercely stabbed the rats belly; blood sshed out. It turned out that the rat had dark red blood. If I didnt have the shlight, I would have thought that its blood was ck.


    Is it dead? Zen Master Baimei asked.


    Yeah, its dead, I confirmed.


    Zen Master Baimei no longer hesitated. He reached out to find something in the rats belly. Merciful Buddha, saving a life creates more merit than building a seven-floor pagoda. I believe this rat will be happy when it knows that in the afterlife.


    Soon after, he took out the rats stomach. The stomach was moving as if it had something inside. It looked like these things were struggling to escape.


    Zen Master Baimei checked the stomach and said, The Soul Luring Worms are inside this stomach. Feed these to Li Mazi.


    I nodded and carefully held the stomach in my hand.


    However, when I turned around to look at Li Mazi, I was stunned.


    Li Mazi was nowhere to be seen. The spot where I hadid Li Mazi was empty. Li Mazi was gone.


    I got a headache. I immediately ran around and called Li Mazis name.


    Zen Master Baimei was appeasing the rats soul when he heard me scream Li Mazis name. He knew something had happened. He stopped what he was doing and ran toward me.


    Hurry, find him! Zen Master Baimei was also flustered. Dont let him run around. I cant believe that the spirit living in the Night Dragon Bait has adapted to Li Mazis body that fast. She has controlled Li Mazis body to run away!


    I worriedly looked around. However, the forest was really big and dark. If he wanted to hide, it wouldnt be easy to find him.


    I searched around, but it was in vain.


    Zen Master Baimei wore a reluctant face. It seemed he didnt have any solution.


    I was desperate and wanted to cry. Li Mazi was my only close friend. Although this fellow had many ws, he had been mypanion for a long time. What would I do if he was gone?


    Just as I was feeling desperate, my phone rang. I immediately took it out. It was Ru Xue.


    Where are you? I came by and saw that your shop is empty.


    I was immediately worried. Ru Xue, you should go home. My shop isnt safe right now. Remember, do not talk to strangers, especially women. You got it?


    I was worried that the Nukekubi was still wandering around my antique shop.


    Ru Xue asked in puzzlement, What happened? Why shouldnt I talk to women? Theres a woman standing next to me. She said that she was looking for you.


    What? My mind shook. Do you see a red rope around her neck? Is she holding an umbre?


    Ru Xue replied, Yes.


    My legs felt like jelly now. I almost slumped on the ground. Ru Xue, listen to me. Leave the antique shop right now! You can run to the police station for help. Ask the police to arrest that woman.


    The other end of the line went dead silent.


    Ru Xue? Ru Xue? I called anxiously.


    A cold voice came from the other line. If you dont want her to die, do not disturb my Master. Otherwise, youll regret it.


    Then, the woman hung up.


    Right before the call hung up, I heard Ru Xue scream for help.


    I called Zen Master Baimei, Zen Master, the Nukekubi got my friend!


    Zen Master Baimei frowned. Your friend? Did she request anything in exchange?


    She asked us not to disturb her Master, I said.


    Zen Master Baimeisplexion changed. Things are more troublesome than expected this time.


    A calm man like Zen Master Baimei had be flustered. It seemed the situation was really serious, and I was starting to lose hope.


    Zen Master Baimei, we should part here. You should go find Li Mazi. Im going to deal with the Nukekubi. We cant let her get what she wants.


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head and said, Im afraid its toote. You cant find her. Also, even if I can find Li Mazi, it will be no use. If we help Li Mazi, the Nukekubi will know it, and shell kill your friend.


    I began to sweat. That damn Nukekubi wanted to push me into despair. She wanted me to choose between Li Mazi and Ru Xue I had a strong bond with Li Mazi, but I was merely a friend to Ru Xue.


    But Zen Master Baimei was right. All lives mattered. I didnt have the right to determine someones life or death...


    While we were at the end of our ropes, I heard an angry voice thunder, Which bastard killed my Soul Luring Rat? You freaking bastard, show yourself!


    Eh? I felt bewildered after I heard the voice. <em>Isnt this Senior Shus voice? Howe Senior Shu is here?</em>


    I was startled and looked back at the spot where I had killed the Soul Luring Rat.

 Chapter 229: The Corpse Scent Bird

    Chapter 229: The Corpse Scent Bird


    Senior Shu was stirred up and angrily held the corpse of the rat. I could read what he was thinking from his eyes: <em>I wont leave the bastard that did this to my rat alone!</em>


    Senior Shu, I called out.


    After Senior Shu saw me, he ran toward me. Judging from his expression, I knew he didnte with goodwill. Little bastard, so it was you! Are you trying to anger me to death? Give me back my Soul Luring Rat! Give it back to me!


    Senior Shu reached out to grab my neck.


    I was startled and tried to retreat, but Senior Shu didnt give up. He chased after me and jumped forward like a tiger, pressing me onto the ground. You actually killed my Soul Luring Rat! Ill give you a good lesson today!


    Let me exin I tried to talk to him.


    However, Senior Shu didnt want to listen and pressed onto me harder.


    Merciful Buddha, chanted Zen Master Baimei. Then, he walked up to us. Old Shu, long time no see.


    Senior Shu was shocked. He lifted his head to look at Zen Master Baimei. He then said awkwardly, Zen Master Baimei, you Why are you here?


    Are you the one who raised that Soul Luring Rat? Zen Master Baimei faintly smiled and went straight to the point.


    Senior Shu nodded. Yes. However, that guy was a glutton and snuck out


    Im the one who lured the rat out, Zen Master Baimei said. If you want to me someone, that person is me.


    Senior Shu showed an embarrassed smile. Zen Master Baimei, I wouldn''t dare. It was just a rat, haha. I dont want to disturb you any further. Ill take my leave.


    Then, Senior Shu prepared to leave.


    Stop, screamed Zen Master Baimei. Senior Shu immediately stopped.


    I felt curious. There should be an old story between Senior Shu and Zen Master Baimei. Otherwise, how could the old man be so afraid of the monk?


    Zen Master Baimei, do you need something from me? Senior Shu asked cautiously.


    I want to ask you something. I heard from Chuyi that you have a Corpse Scent Bird. Is that right? said Zen Master Baimei.


    Senior Shu waved his hand in denial. Of course not. Theres no such thing. Chuyi is a good guy, but he likes to tell jokes. Oh, right, Im cooking congee. I have to go and check on it. I dont want it to burn.


    Stop right there, Zen Master Baimei shouted. I want to borrow your Corpse Scent Bird. Saving a life creates more merit than building a seven-floor pagoda. All of our debts will be erased if you do that.


    Senior Shu wore an awkward face and looked at Zen Master Baimei. Zen Master Baimei, its not that I dont want to let you borrow it. Its just that my Corpse Scent Bird hasnt grown up yet. If you use it now, the effort that Ive poured into it will go in vain. You know how precious the Corpse Scent Bird is, right?


    Good. In that case, we need to talk about our old debt. Zen Master Baimei palmed his hands in front of his chest and red at Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu was scared. All right, all right, I surrender. You and Chuyi will be the end of me! Okay, tell me. What do you want me to do?


    Zen Master Baimei said, Weve bumped into a Japanese Nukekubi. We need to use your Corpse Scent Bird.


    What? Senior Shu gawked. A Japanese Nukekubi? How did you provoke such a creature? No, no, I cant help you with this case. My Corpse Scent Bird is still growing. If it confronts the Nukekubi, it will be bullied.


    We just need to rescue a hostage. Its not such a bad deal for you, said Zen Master Baimei.


    Senior Shu didnt sound willing. However, since I was pestering him and Zen Master Baimei was threatening him, he agreed with an aching heart.


    My poor Corpse Scent Bird! Sigh, you little jinx, its all your fault. I curse the day I got to know you.


    Senior Shu reluctantly took out a small bird from his clothes. The bird was as big as a sparrow, and it had bright a red body and a pointy beak. A faint sweet smell exuded from the bird. That smell was very special; I had nevere across such an exotic smell.


    Senior Shu whispered into the Corpse Scent Birds ear. They looked like they were as close as father and son. After listening to him, the Corpse Scent Bird pped its wings and flew up.


    It flew at a normal speed, and Senior Shu chased after it.


    Zen Master Baimei said, After you save the hostage, call us.


    Senior Shu answered then hurried to follow his bird.


    After Senior Shu left, Zen Master Baimei sat down on the spot and read the Great Compassion Mantra. I wanted to ask him about the beef between him and Senior Shu, but as he was meditating, I knew that I shouldnt disturb him. I simply sat down next to him.


    Yet, I couldnt calm down, and my mind was a mess. <em>From where should I start looking for Li Mazi? Is he okay? His soul isnt stable; what do we do if it flies out of his body?</em>


    <em>Also, Senior Shu is too crazy and cant be trusted. Can he even deal with that Nukekubi? Will his Corpse Scent Bird really be able to find the monster?</em>


    Every second that ticked by felt as long as a year.


    While I was burning with impatience, I heard Senior Shus voice. Kiddo, how do you n to repay this favor?


    After listening to his tone, I knew that he had seeded.


    I cheered up. Senior Shu, can we take action now? Where is the Nukekubi?


    Hmph, is there anything in this world that I cant deal with? I shooed the Nukekubi away. I guess shes running to Li Mazi. You better find Li Mazi now. Otherwise, God knows what the Nukekubi will do to him, said Senior Shu.


    I immediately thanked him.


    Senior Shu continued to nag andin. My poor Corpse Scent Bird is ruined now. Kiddo, you have topensate me


    I didnt have time to worry about Senior Shu. I said to Zen Master Baimei, Zen Master, Senior Shu has rescued the hostage. We should find Li Mazi now.


    Zen Master Baimei stood up, and his drowsy eyes looked around.


    Eventually, he pointed behind us. I just visited the Netherworld. I heard from the ghosts that theres a strange person around two kilometers to the South who is peeling off his soul. If Im not wrong, that person should be Li Mazi.


    I was shocked that he could visit the Netherworld. However, I didnt have time to waste on this matter and immediately headed to the South.


    Sure enough, not long after we had run in the direction Zen Master Baimei had pointed to, we saw a man sitting cross-legged. He had his back to us. He was bending his upper body as if he was eating something.


    I furrowed my brows and turned to look at Zen Master Baimei.


    Zen Master Baimei didnt waste time. He directly ran toward Li Mazi and coiled his prayer beads around his neck. Merciful Buddha! The sea of bitterness has no bounds, turn your head to see the shore! Benefactor, you can stille back!


    Li Mazi then slowly turned around. His eyes were nowpletely ck, which looked really eerie.


    His nostrils and mouth were covered in blood, and he was chewing some flesh. It was too scary to look at.


    I tried to find the source of the meat he was eating. I felt scared after seeing his arm full of bite marks. The marks made his entire arm a mess of bleeding wounds. He was eating on his own flesh earlier.


    My stomach rolled, and I almost vomited.


    Li Mazi looked at us and sneered. He slowly got up and said in a mocking voice, I really miss thete Emperor. Let me have a talk with him.


    Then, he prepared to take the beads off his neck.


    Zen Master Baimei shouted and squatted down. With both hands pped in front of his chest, he muttered some incantation.


    The prayer beads showed their immense power and pressed Li Mazi onto the ground. Li Mazi wasnt willing to go down, so he struggled hard and tried to get up.

 Chapter 230: The Bloody Forest

    Chapter 230: The Bloody Forest


    Zen Master Baimei gave his all to chant the incantation, and his forehead was covered with ayer of sweat. At the same time, Li Mazi was also resisting hard.


    However, since Zen Master Baimei was not as young as he used to be, Li Mazi slowly got the upper hand. Bald donkey, are you trying to prevent me from seeing thete Emperor? Im going to kill you!


    Then, he pushed back Zen Master Baimei.


    I took out the Sirius Whip and hit Li Mazi.


    After each attack, Li Mazi frowned in pain. He red at me and hissed, Im going to kill you as well!


    As he roared, he grabbed the Sirius Whip and pulled hard, dragging me over alongside the whip.


    I swiftly squatted and hugged a big tree. However, I still couldnt resist his superhuman strength. Eventually, I was pulled over and then hurled me away.


    Inded hard on the ground, and my chest hurt like hell. I couldnt breathe, and as the tension started to ease, I felt a tint of warmth in my throat. It was also when I vomited blood.


    I angrily got up and picked up my Sirius Whip, storming forward one more time.


    However, when I wielded the Sirius Whip tosh at Li Mazi, I felt that someone had gripped onto my whip. I tried to pull it, but it didnt move. The force holding me back was so big that I almost lost hold on the whip.


    I turned around to see who it was, and I was scared out of my wits immediately after!


    The Nukekubi''s head was floating behind me, her mouth full of blood. She was biting my Sirius Whip, and although the Yang energy from the whip hurt her continuously, she didnt let it go. It looked like she wanted to die and take the whip with her.


    I didnt see the red rope around her neck. Earlier, Zen Master Baimei had told me that the rope was crucial for when the Nukekubi re-attached to her body. Since it was now gone, I guessed this monstrous woman had decided to discard her body


    If she didnt want to live anymore, it meant that the Nukekubi wanted to bring me down with her. She bit my whip and pulled it back, which prevented me from approaching Li Mazi.


    <em>Im a person with a full body! Why am I still afraid of this head?!</em>I resolutely coiled the Sirius Whip around my arm and pulled against the Nukekubi.


    The Nukekubi was very strong, and she was able to pull and drag me away even though I was still lying on the ground.


    I turned around to check on Zen Master Baimei; he was struggling against Li Mazi. Li Mazis hand was just inches away from Zen Master Baimeis throat, but he couldnt move any further. I knew that Zen Master Baimei was using his prayer beads to restrain him.


    Zen Master Baimei looked exhausted. His face twisted in pain, and sweat rolled down his forehead.


    I decided to ignore the Nukekubi and released the Sirius Whip. Since the Nukekubi was pulling at the whip hard, she was sent flying backward. I turned around and ran toward Li Mazi, kicking him with all my strength.


    However, Li Mazi just wobbled a bit before steadying himself.


    This gave Zen Master Baimei some time to rx. Nevertheless, as he wasnt suppressing his wound anymore, he vomited a mouthful of blood.


    Zen Master Baimei was swift and took out the Night Dragon Bait from his clothes, soaking it in his blood.


    The Night Dragon Bait was the home to the evil spirit, and if it was soaked in blood, the spirit would not be able to return.


    Moreover, the blood hurt the spirit to a certain extent, which made Li Mazi roll on the ground in pain. However, he got up soon after and attacked Zen Master Baimei again.


    When this happened, I didnt have any magic weapons on me. I could only use my own physique to resist the evil spirit.


    However, Zen Master Baimei used one hand to push me away. Little friend, go deal with the Nukekubi. Leave him to me.


    I worriedly looked at Zen Master Baimei and said, But youre hurt


    Thats not a problem. Zen Master Baimei smiled and said, I used three drops of essence blood. She cant defeat me.


    Then, he mustered all his strength and stood in front of me. He was ready to fight Li Mazi to the death.


    Since their fight had reached a critical moment, I had no more opportunities to intervene. I could only stand aside and watch.


    In the meantime, the Nukekubi had flown back and opened her bloody mouth to bite my throat.


    I lowered my body to dodge her attack. Then, I picked up a big rock from the ground; it was the only weapon I could find at the time.


    The Nukekubi aimed at me one more time. I didnt dodge but seized the chance to shove the rock into her mouth and pped her once. I immediately felt that a lot of my anger had been released.


    However, my attack didnt create much damage to the Nukekubi. Instead, it enraged her even more. She roared angrily and crushed the rock with her teeth, charging forward again.


    Moreover, she was very fast this time. I couldnt dodge her attack or react timely. She sent me to the ground. Then, she kept hammering on my chest with her head.


    It felt as if a huge rock was pressing on my chest; my ribs were on the verge of breaking. I couldnt breathe, so I raised my arms to stop her, but I still worried that she might bite them off.


    I didnt have the strength to counterattack and was terrified at the thought of losing my life.


    My eyes blurred, and my consciousness started to fade. I wanted to see how Zen Master Baimei was doing over there, but I saw only red blood hue clouding my vision. I guessed that Zen Master Baimei was in the same situation as I was. Otherwise, he would havee and saved me already.


    Just when I was losing hope, a shadow intruded my field of vision. The Nukekubi was frightened and turned around in an attempt to flee.


    The neer was a vulgar-looking old man. He held a bucket in his hands and used it to trap the Nukekubi. He then sat on the bucket and put one leg over the other, looking at me with a mocking smile.


    I tried my best to get up from the ground. I felt like all of my bones were broken.


    I turned to thank the vulgar-looking old man. Senior Shu, thank you.


    Senior Shu red at me. Enough with your nonsense. If you dont want to watch Zen Master Baimei die,e over and sit on the bucket!


    Although the Nukekubi was strangely strong, she couldnt escape the bucket no matter how hard she banged against the walls.


    I saw something that looked like white powder sprinkled on the bucket. The air now smelled of quicklime. If I wasnt wrong, the inner wall of the bucket had been reinforced with quicklime.


    I looked at the bucket in surprise.


    Senior Shu said, Why are you still lingering there? Dont you see that Zen Master Baimei cant hold it anymore?


    I turned to look at Zen Master Baimei. He was now at a disadvantage. Li Mazi was forcing him to back off with his punches.


    Zen Master Baimei continuously vomited blood, barely resisting the attacks. By looking at his appearance, I knew that he couldnt stand the attacks for much longer.


    I wanted to rush forward to help him, but Senior Shus hand gripped onto me. Stop! Do you n to go there to die? Sit on the bucket and dont move. Im going to help him.


    Then, Senior Shu took out a bead from his mouth and shoved it into mine while I wasnt paying attention.


    I was extremely disgusted as the bead had the old mans saliva on it. This wretched man had no manners!

 Chapter 231: Myriad Buddha Evil Slaughtering Formation

    Chapter 231: Myriad Buddha Evil ughtering Formation


    Listen to me and quickly sit here. Senior Shu grabbed me and made me sit on the bucket, suppressing the struggling Nukekubi once more.


    I ignored the disgusting bead in my mouth and urged Senior Shu to go and help the old monk.


    Senior Shu didnt waste time and quickly ran forward. However, after two steps, he stopped and returned to me.


    I asked in puzzlement, Whats wrong? Cant you see that Zen Master Baimei is in trouble?


    Senior Shu sighed and said, Sigh, I was worried for nothing earlier. After all, there was no way that Zen Master Baimei couldn''t deal with a small spirit like that.


    What do you mean?


    Hes using the Myriad Buddha Evil ughtering Formation, Senior Shu smiled and said. Just wait a bit, Li Mazi is about to step into a trap.


    While I felt puzzled, I saw Li Mazi step into a hole. Immediately after, he couldnt move anymore. It was as if he was frozen.


    <em>Whats going on over there?</em> I couldnt think of an exnation.


    Zen Master Baimei faintly smiled and took off his kasaya, wrapping it around Li Mazi.


    Immediately after, Li Mazi started to struggle in an attempt to shake off the kasaya. However, it was toote. Zen Master Baimei put the prayer beads around his neck and pulled hard.


    Li Mazis body was dragged out of the hole and fell beside Zen Master Baimei.


    After Li Mazi left, I saw that a figure still lingered in the big hole!


    The figure appeared to be an upper-ssdy as she wore imperial robes.


    Although I couldn''t see her face clearly, the powerful and domineering aura exuding from her body was very intimidating!


    Zen Master Baimei put Li Mazi on his shoulder and moved about five meters away. He then thrust his hand into his pocket and grabbed a stack of paper dolls, throwing them into the formation.


    Generous Buddha, please let me borrow five hundred warriors!


    As soon as he said that, dozens of paper dolls seemed to revive. They swirled inside the Myriad Buddha Evil ughtering Formation and surrounded the woman.


    The royaldy was scared. She screamed and shrieked angrily. Let me go! I want to see thete Emperor


    She jumped and wiggled continuously, but she couldnt get out of the hole.


    Eventually, the paper dolls surrounded her, and the strong gusts of wind twirled faster. It felt as though many knives were cutting through her.


    The woman faded and gradually turned translucent, bing a mass of smoke.


    Before her soul vanished, she continued to scream, Let me go! I want to see thete Emperor


    This ghost seemed to be obsessed with thiste emperor.


    I wondered who that person was.


    Before I could ask, Zen Master Baimei slowly copsed to the ground. He continued to look at the formation, then mercifully read his prayer. Obsession can be really harmful. I didnt want to take any drastic measures, but you forced my hand Merciful Buddha


    Zen Master Baimeis face turned pale. He looked extremely weak, so I hurried to lift him up and put him on my back.


    Before we left, I shot a look at the Nukekubi. She was still struggling and banging under the bucket. However, she looked much weaker now. Senior Shu gave me a vulgar smile and said, I will keep this Nukekubi. She aint bad. After my training, she can be my maid.


    Iughed while cursing Senior Shu inwardly. <em>This old man is really a pervert.</em>


    I wasted no more time and hurried to bring Zen Master Baimei to the car. Then, I drove to the hospital.


    Since he was old and had a rough fight, I was afraid that his body was badly damaged. Furthermore, he had even used three drops of his essence blood. I felt guilty and didnt know how to make things up to him.


    Later on, I was relieved to learn that his test results were okay; he was merely exhausted. We just needed to properly take care of his body, and he would be fine.


    I exhaled in relief and tried to get Zen Master Baimei the best nutritious foods for each of his meals.


    Zen Master Baimeis recovery speed amazed even the doctors.


    After he was discharged from the hospital, the first thing he did was ask me about the Night Dragon Bait.


    I took out the Night Dragon Bait from the drawer and handed it to him.


    The Night Dragon Bait now had a crack. When Zen Master Baimei spat his blood on it earlier, it had absorbed all of it. This gave the Night Dragon Bait a red tint in the middle. The white bead looked quite strange now.


    Zen Master Baimei didnt say anything but hit the bead with his palm and directly halved it.


    I was astounded to see a ring in the middle of the bead. Although it had been stored inside the Night Dragon Bait for several thousand years, it looked well-preserved. It was decorated with exquisite carvings and had polished, tender lines; it felt heavy in my hand.


    It was hard to imagine that ancient people could put a ring inside a gemstone without breaking it.


    Zen Master Baimei smiled faintly. Do you know the story of the Night Dragon Bait?


    I shook my head. I was very curious about the Night Dragon Bait, though. Why did it hold such a majestic woman inside?


    Zen Master Baimei said, Have you ever heard of the story of the brave woman who cut her wrist?


    I tried to recall but couldn''t find any stories rted to women who cut their wrists. I guessed it was some idiom about a woman who had cut her wrist to save her dignity. But, how did this rte to the Night Dragon Bait?


    I looked at Zen Master Baimei in puzzlement.


    Zen Master Baimei sighed. Dragons are real. But you already know that much, dont you?


    I nodded. As an otherworldly merchant, my knowledge surpassed that of ordinary people. In my world, the Heavens had a will and could punish people, reincarnation and karma existed, and the same went for ghosts and gods. Of course, I believed in the existence of dragons as well.


    In Yingkou, there was a famous story about a dragon falling from the sky that dated back to 1934. Many people had seen a ck dragon stranded on a shore.


    Also, there was one more piece of evidence to prove this. Our ancestors hade up with twelve animals for the Chinese Zodiacs. Why was the dragon the only imaginary animals among the twelve? It didnt sound logical. So, dragons did also exist in ancient times.

 Chapter 232: The Brave Woman Who Cut Her Wrist

    Chapter 232: The Brave Woman Who Cut Her Wrist


    Zen Master Baimei patiently exined to me.


    In Chinese history, the founder of the Liao dynasty was called Yelu Abaoji. [1] One day, he was hunting in the meadow with three-hundred horsemen when they saw a giant monster fly above their heads.


    Yelu Abaoji ordered his army to shoot the beast with thousands of arrows. When the giant beast got hit, they recognized it was a massive ck dragon!


    The ck dragon lost its bnce and eventually fell around five hundred meters away from the army. Yelu Abaoji ordered his men to tie the dying dragon down with iron chains.


    However, Yelu Abaojis actions caused panic among the people as they thought that the ck dragon was a messenger from the heavens. Since Yelu Abaoji had killed the dragon, he had offended the heavens and would be thus punished.


    However, Yelu Abaoji didnt believe in superstitions. He thought that as the emperor, he could do whatever he wanted.


    Yet, not long afterward, the invincible Yelu Abaoji was defeated in a battle. During his defeat, Yelu Abaoji had a bizarre death. The people all agreed that this was retribution.


    After Yelu Abaojis death, the first thing his wife, Empress Shulu, did wasnt to enthrone the Crown Prince. Instead, she summoned all the generals who had been fighting side-by-side with Yelu Abaoji in hisst battle. She told them, I really miss thete Emperor. What about you?


    The generals all agreed with her and said that they also missed thete Emperor. Empress Dowager Shulu said in agony, If you also miss thete Emperor, you should go and serve him!


    The generals were bewildered because they didnt understand what the Empress Dowager meant.


    Then, on the day of Yelu Abaojis funeral, Empress Dowager Shulu ordered the arrangement of many decapitation tforms. The generals finally understood what she meant. However, it was toote. All the generals who had been with Yelu Abaoji during the battle were killed so that they could serve him in the other world.


    Yet, not even this could ease Empress Dowager Shulus grief. She wanted to send someone to deliver her message to Yelu Abaoji. Then, she remembered a close friend of his. His name was Zhao Siwen.


    When Yelu Abaoji was still alive, Zhao Siwen was the general he appreciated the most. Empress Dowager Shulu thought that sending Zhao Siwen was the best choice.


    However, she miscalcted something. Zhao Siwen was of Han ethnicity, and Han people didnt care about these old beliefs. When Empress Dowager Shulu asked Zhao Siwen to kill himself and send her message to thete Emperor, he denied resolutely. Im not going!


    Why? You were Histe Majestys best friend. You must go.


    Zhao Siwen was a smart guy. He snapped back, If theres anyone who has the best rtionship with thete Emperor, that would be you, Your Majesty. Why dont you go and serve our former Emperor yourself?


    He made Empress Dowager Shulu speechless. Eventually, her rage burst out. The Crown Prince is still young. I need to stay and assist him until he grows up.


    Zhao Siwen answered coldly, Empress Dowager Shulu, do you know why His Majesty hasnte to talk to you in your dreams?


    Shulu had wanted to send Zhao Siwen to the other world precisely because Yelu Abaoji hadnt appeared in her dreams despite being dead for quite a long time. She wanted to send someone to ask him about it.


    Empress Dowager Shulu blurted, Why?


    Zhao Siwen answered, Its because he shot dead a ck dragon. The Heavens punished him. Im afraid that even if hes dead, he wont be able to rest. If we dont atone for his sin, his punishment will never end


    Empress Dowager Shulu was anxious. What should we do? How do we atone for his sins?


    At the time, society was focused on acts of cutting wrists. Sometimes, women would chop off their wrists under certain circumstances to show their loyalty to their husbands.


    Zhao Siwen casually said that the Empress Dowager should cut her wrist to beg for heavens mercy.


    Zhao Siwen just wanted to find an excuse to make the Empress Dowager give up on her intention of sending him to the other world. He did not want her to trouble him or the other officials any longer.


    Otherwise, whenever she missed herte husband, she would kill someone to deliver her message!


    However, he didnt know that Empress Dowager Shulu was a brave woman with great dignity. She didnt hesitate and snatched the saber from a nearby guard, chopping off her left hand.


    Zhao Siwen gawked in shock. However, he couldnt change what he had said. He picked up Empress Dowager Shulus cut hand and ced it under the dark dragons body to beg for forgiveness.


    No one had expected that the ck dragon would actually show its spirit. Although the dragon had been dead for a while, its mouth began to produce a strange mucus that slowly covered the cut hand. After several days, the mucus became solid and created a ball-like object. At the same time, the cut hand was dissolved by the mucus, giving birth to the item known as Night Dragon Bait.


    Of course, the Night Dragon Bait didnt still have todays shape back then.


    Empress Dowager Shulu thought that it was the redemption token the heavens had bestowed to thete Emperor. Thus, she buried the Night Dragon Bait in Yelu Abaojis tomb.


    Afterward, Empress Dowager Shulu dreamt about thete emperor every night, and Zhao Siwen kept his life.


    However, the Empress started to lose her mind. She stayed in her bed all day just to dream about thete emperor. Her body quickly deteriorated, and after a sudden sickness, she left the mortal world.


    Before she died, Empress Dowager Shulu told her maid that thete emperor was so lonely down there and that he had summoned her to serve him. She ordered that after she was gone, they had to bury her together with him.


    The story about the brave woman who cut her wrist was spread from there. Everybody admired and respected Empress Dowager Shulu for her loyalty, but I didnt feel the same.


    Yelu Abaoji had ughtered countless people while he was in power. His sudden death was a consequence of his brutal deeds.


    His wife, Empress Dowager Shulu, was also very cruel. She beheaded excellent generals who had earned merit for the country just to send some messages to herte husband. Moreover, she chopped her hand out of selfishness and not because she regretted her actions.


    After listening to Zen Master Baimei, I was still puzzled. Why did a Nukekubie to my door after several thousand years? What did she have to do with Empress Dowager Shulu?


    Zen Master Baimei smiled and said, Yelu Abaojis tomb is in Japan. ording to legend, the Nukekubis were Yelu Abaojis tomb keeper. Since the Night Dragon Bait appeared in the world again, of course, its only natural for the Nukekubi toe


    I realized now.


    Persisting in evil brought about ones destruction. Even if you were the emperor of a country, you wouldnt have it better than an ordinary citizen.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abaoji

 Chapter 233: The Mysterious Man in Black

    Chapter 233: The Mysterious Man in ck


    After Zen Master Baimei halved the Night Dragon Bait, the pearl melted into a puddle of liquid. We then threw it into the fire, where it burned into ashes.


    Even though we had saved Li Mazi, his soul had yet to recover. As such, he always felt dizzy and couldnt walk straight. Ru Xue stayed by his side and caringly took care of him. She didnt want to leave even after Li Mazi had fully recovered.


    Ru Xues dedication and care eventually melted Li Mazis heart, and his attitude toward her became much better.


    Eileen Chang used to say, The best way to forget someone is to spend time with a new lover.


    I had a feeling that if they could develop their rtionship further, Li Mazi could walk out of the darkness of histe wifes death.


    Not long after this case, Yin Xinyue and I started to consider getting engaged. We understood each other well and deeply cared for the other. We felt the time was right.


    One day, after we took some pre-wedding photos, I brought Yin Xinyue home and returned to my shop. I was exhausted.


    When I got home, I saw someone squatting in front of my shop.


    At first nce, I thought it was a customer. I didnt want to get involved with an otherworldly item before my wedding. However, if this person came to my shop, then it wouldnt be nice to reject the request, either. Otherwise, it would affect my reputation.


    When I came closer, I saw that the person was sleeping at my door. They wore a ck cloak, and a veil covered their face, which only revealed the eyes. They also wore gloves. It was hard to tell if this person was a man or woman.


    Seeing them squatting in front of my shop, I thought that it was a beggar. I tried to wake the person up by calling them, but it did not work. I had no choice but to kick them gently. Hey, wake up!


    After I kicked them, they finally opened his eyes and looked at me with a drowsy face. How long have I slept?


    How could I know that? I fumed and said, This is my shop. I want to open for business. If you want to rest, find a motel!


    I wanted to shoo him away.


    To my surprise, the man didnt want to leave. Instead, he wanted to y tough. This might be your shop, but is the street yours as well? Do you own thisnd? Im going to sleep here. What are you going to do about that?


    I knew I had bumped into a thug; he was sort of ckmailing me. I was enraged but still took one hundred renminbi from my pocket and threw it at him. Get lost!


    The man just sneered and then took out two one-hundred-renminbi notes. Here, take this. Its my rental fee. I wont leave. I find itfortable to sleep here.


    Then, he closed his eyes and slept.


    I didnt know if I shouldugh or cry. This fellow sure was strange. My ce wasnt a hotel, yet he wanted to sleep here. It was so annoying.


    I was angry, and my mood was ruined. I ignored him, went into my shop, and carefully closed the door.


    The pre-wedding shooting had worn me out, but I couldnt fall asleep. I guessed anybody would be worried about such a situation. A strange man was sleeping at my door, and I didnt know what he wanted.


    The more I thought about it, the more worried I became. Eventually, I got up and walked out to talk to the man. I decided to threaten him and told him that if he continued to sleep at my door, I would call the police.


    When I mentioned the police, he became scared. He shook his head reluctantly then left.


    I exhaled in relief and climbed back to my bed.


    However, at around 3 AM, I was awakened by my phone ringing. Dreamily, I reached for the phone and asked, Who is it?


    Yin Xinyues voice came from the other end of the line. Brother Zhang, are you sleeping?


    I yawned. No, not yet. Are you okay? Can youe here? Yin Xinyue seemed scared. A strange mans sleeping in front of my door. Im scared.


    I frowned. I had a feeling that the strange man Yin Xinyue mentioned was the same guy I had just kicked out.


    I took a deep breath and forced myself to calm down. I couldnt panic. If I panicked, Yin Xinyue would be more frightened.


    Xinyue, you dont need to be scared. Close all the windows. Do not go out. Tell me, what does he look like?


    Hes wearing ck, and hes squatting at my door. He isnt moving, and he sometimes looks at my house. Im scared. Do you think hes some sort of gangster? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I said, Dont panic and dont act rashly. Iming to your house now! Dont worry. Not all men in ck are gangsters!


    After I hung up, I felt myself fuming in rage. <em>I forced him to leave, but he actually ran to Yin Xinyues house? If I dont give him a good lesson, I wont be worthy of Yin Xinyue!</em> I put on some clothes and called Li Mazi. If that man was really a criminal, having someone with me would be better.


    When we arrived at Yin Xinyues house, I saw the man in question. Sure enough, it was the same fellow. I stormed forward and gave him a kick.


    Wake up!


    The man in ck opened his drowsy eyes and lifted his head to look at me. Why are you here? Stop following me around like a ghost!


    This man knew how to shove false arguments down peoples throats. I snapped, This is my house. Why are you sleeping at my door?


    He looked bewildered and said, Is this ce your house too? Stop bragging. Youre just a little shop owner. How could you live in this luxurious vi? Tch.


    Since I had woken Li Mazi while he was having a good sleep, he was already infuriated. And now, this fellows arrogant attitude made him even madder. Theres no need to waste time with him. Just use our old method! Chop one of his legs!


    Geez, stop scaring me. The man in ck smirked. Are you pretending to be some gangsters? I did illegal stuffy when you guys were still wearing diapers.


    Li Mazi snorted. Is that so?


    He took out the watermelon knife hed brought along, weighing it on his palm. Well take your left leg.


    Then, he used the knife to hack at the mans thigh.


    The man in ck was scared. He flexed and jumped up. Youre crazy! I just wanted to find a good ce to sleep, but you two insist on disturbing me!


    Although he didnt look pleased, the man in ck didnt dare to stay. He turned and left.


    After the man left, Yin Xinyue cautiously walked toward me. She hadnt gotten a hold of herself yet. Why is that man dressed up so strangely? I was so scared. He was covered in ck, and we could only see his eyes.


    She didnt dare to sleep in her vi alone, so I brought her back to my shop.


    I guessed that the man in ck wouldnt dare toe back again after this recent warning.


    However, although he was gone, I was left with a lot of doubts. <em>What was the deal with that man? It didnt look like money was the reason. He didnt do anything threatening to us, either. Why did he linger at my shop and in front of Yin Xinyues house? What is he trying to do? What are his intentions?</em>


    Since I was puzzled, I couldnt sleep well for the rest of the night.


    Yin Xinyue was a conservative woman. Since we were not married yet, she only allowed me to hug her. I felt itchy for the whole night.


    Early the next morning, I received a call from Fengshen Nana.


    Some time had passed since Old Chefs incident, and Fengshen Nana hadn''t called me since. If she called me this early in the morning, it meant that something bad must have happened.


    I picked up the phone, and Fengshen Nana said in a mocking tone, Tch, tch. Mister Zhang, youre really bold. You even dare to go this far. I was wrong to trust you.


    I was bewildered and asked her, What do you mean?


    You know what I mean! Fengshen Nana sneered. Come to the police station. Otherwise, Im going to arrest you myself.


    "Youre crazy. I was annoyed by her tone. That odd man in ck bothered me yesterday, then I watched Yin Xinyue for the whole night without being able to touch her, and now Fengshen Nana was mocking me. Even if I was a sage, I would be enraged.


    Fengshen Nana also sounded mad. You have thirty minutes to get your ass here. Otherwise, I will send the criminal police to arrest you.


    Then, she hung up. I called her again, but she didnt pick up.


    I wondered if I had offended someone these days. Maybe that was why I had such bad luck.


    From Fengshen Nanas tone, she didnt sound like she was joking. Good citizens wouldn''t annoy police officers, so I headed to the police station.


    As it wasnt a big police station, I quickly found Fengshen Nana.


    Fengshen Nana coldly rubbed her nose. I was about to send my guys out to arrest you.


    What happened? I fumed. Im very busy, and I dont have time to linger here and joke with you.


    Fengshen Nana said, Your partner in crime already confessed. Lets go to see him.


    When I saw the one she called my partner, I was mad.


    It was the man wearing the ck cloak fromst night. I was certain that he had falsely used me of something.


    I was really angry. I dont know this fellow. No matter what he did, it doesnt rte to me.


    You dont know him? Fengshen Nana looked at me in surprise. How is that possible?


    I said I dont know him, I couldnt help but snarl. Isnt the police supposed to investigate the matter properly before summoning someone?


    Fengshen Nana angrily looked at the man in ck. Do you know him or not? Did he give you the orders?


    Unexpectedly, the man in ck got on his knees. Grandmaster, please help me! I had eyes but failed to see. I didnt know that you were an expert and offended youst night. Please save me!


    He knelt and cried, making me feel very awkward.

 Chapter 234: White Mold Spots

    Chapter 234: White Mold Spots


    You said that you were his partner! Did you deceive me? Fengshen Nana was enraged.


    I had no choice! Grandmaster, save me! The man in ck continued to beg.


    <em>Save you? Like hell!</em>


    I red at him. Now that the truth hase out, Im leaving.


    Fengshen Nana stopped me. Arent you going to ask what he did?


    After hearing her words, I calmed down. <em>Right, I know nothing about this guy. What if he continues to bother me or Yin Xinyues door after getting discharged?</em>


    So, I asked her, Why did this man get arrested?


    He assaulted children, Fengshen Nana said. Moreover, its not the first time he does that. Hes a recidivist.


    I was baffled. He assaulted children? How childish is he to pick a fight with children? What a weirdo. The police should take care of this scumbag. If you let perverts like him mingle in society, everyone will be in danger.


    The man in ck bowed his head toward me and begged. Grandmaster, please save my life! I have my reasons. If you ignore me, I wont be able to live on


    I coldly said, Get lost. I dont have time to care about your business.


    Then, I proceeded to leave the police station.


    The man in ck saw that he couldnt y soft. He began to act more aggressively. Grandmaster, if you dont help me after I get out of here, I will sleep in front of your shop every day. You see, I have a lot of infectious diseases, and I cant guarantee that I wont infect you with something.


    As he talked, he took the cloth covering his face off.


    When I saw the mans face, my stomach clenched. Goosebumps rose on my body, and I didnt dare to take a second look at him.


    This man had moldy white spots all over his face. He looked as if he had a tinea versicolor condition. However, hair grew from those spots. The hair covered his face entirely.


    Those spots were even on his lips!


    Fengshen Nana was even more shocked than I. She turned around and dashed toward the toilet to vomit. She didnte back for a long time.


    Grandmaster, this disease is infectious. Moreover, I have mold all over my body. If you dont save me, I will rot to death. The man in ck begged me.


    I took a deep breath and tried to calm down. Why dont you go to a hospital to check it out? How can I help you with this skin disease?


    I couldnt deny that the mans threat had worked. I was very afraid that he would infect me with that horrible disease.


    Still, how could a living person be moldy? Only corpses could grow mold under specific circumstances!


    The man in ck said reluctantly, Grandmaster, I think Ive provoked some evil thing. Every day, frightening thoughts appear in my mind, and I cant control myself anymore. But if I stay at your shop front, those strange thoughts disappear. Thats why I didnt want to leave. At first, I thought it was just a coincidence, but that policewoman told me that you were an expert. Thats the reason I used such a method to ask for your help. I hope that you can save me!


    The man in ck begged me miserably. He cried and whined nonstop. It didnt look like he was pretending.


    You mentioned frightening thoughts. What kind of thoughts are we talking about? I asked.


    Thoughts about eating children, he said. Whenever I get hungry, I get a very strong urge to eat children. I just cant help it.


    <em>Eating children?!</em>


    His reply was enough to make my scalp tingle.


    In this world, cannibalism was one of the most disgusting things, and we were talking about eating children here!


    Did such perversions still exist in our current era? I knew there was something wrong with this fellow. I took a deep breath then asked, Have you ever visited a psychiatrist before? It could be a mental problem of yours, you know?


    Thats useless. The man in ck looked depressed. I was normal before and had apassionate heart. I was a public officer, so I wasnt inclined tomit crimes, let alone eat children.


    He continued, However, after my wife gave birth to my son, I became strange. At first, I was unaware of my strange behavior. It was my wife who told me that I would drool whenever I saw the kid. Then, I got this disease. More and more white spots started to appear on my body as time passed by. Grandmaster, you must save me! Only you can save me!


    He burst into tears and cried loudly.


    Fengshen Nana asked, Mister Zhang, tell me, is this man pestered by some evil creature?


    I cursed under my breath. Yin Xinyue and I had started to prepare for our wedding. I didnt want to ept any case right now, but business came to my door on its own.


    I sighed inwardly. Ever since I entered the otherworldly-item business, more and more troubles wereing my way. I didnt even have time to rest.


    The Heavens had a will, and an otherworldly merchant had his destiny. I couldnt escape my fate.


    If I went against it, I would vite the principles of my profession.


    Left with no choice, I epted the task. I cant say for sure at this moment. Well have to investigate carefully.


    Fengshen Nana looked pensive. This man has been arrested before, and all the cases are rted to the assault of children. Also, the way he assaulted the kids was strange. He bit them Im now worried that he might have infected them.


    He bit the kids? I shivered once more. If an evil spirit was behind this, then that spirit was extraordinarily hateful.


    You have to tell me all the things youve encountered. You shouldnt omit any detail, even if they are small. Ill try my best to help you, I said.


    The man in ck was touched and nodded continuously. Yes, yes. Thank you, Grandmaster.


    ording to him, he used to work at a local power nt, and he was some sort of public servant. He was kind and had good rtionships with the people in hispany. Whenever he saw someone in trouble, he would voluntarily offer to help them.


    Since his name was Lei Long, his colleagues often called him Lei Fengs descendant or Lei Feng of modern times. [1]


    If it werent for the strange disease he had contracted, Lei Longs life wouldnt be bad. He had a happy family, a career that people envied, and his pay was good too.


    However, ever since his wife gave birth to his son, his life changed drastically.


    One day after his sons birth, Lei Long started to act strange.


    At first, Lei Longs appetite became much bigger. No matter what he ate, he couldnt feel full. As such, he ate all day long.


    Moreover, he becamezy and didnt even help his wife during her postpartum period.


    If his wife wasnt an understanding spouse, they would have been divorced already. His wife had to take care of their infant son, cook, and feed the kid all alone.


    Although Lei Long ate a lot, he justid on his bed, feeling powerless. He didnt move and didnt even care about his newborn son.


    He thought that he might be sick, so he went to the hospital for a check-up. The results were okay, but the doctor found something strange on his body.


    Some white hairs were growing on his left cheek. The doctor guessed that it might be due to mold. However, how could human skin actually be moldy? The doctor was puzzled and asked Lei Long if he had done any surgery on his face. For instance, if he did some stic surgery to make his face thinner.


    Lei Long shook his head. Heid on his bed all day and didnt feel like moving a finger. There was no way he would bother with stic surgery.


    The doctor teased him, Haha, perhaps you became moldy precisely because you dont do anything all day!


    Lei Long went home disappointed. After that, his situation became even worse.


    He stopped going to work and only thought about eating.


    This reminded me of the jade thumb ring. Lei Longs symptoms were simr to the ones caused by that ring, which also forced people to eat uncontrobly.


    The only difference was that the jade ring made people fat, while Lei Long grew mold on his body.


    I suspected that Lei Long had eaten something poisonous that caused such strange symptoms.


    Every day, at around 9 PM, he would start feeling sleepy. Even if he had a gun pointed at his head, he would still fall asleep. It was as if he had overdosed himself with sleeping pills.


    Then, around 2 AM, Lei Long would have a strange dream. He would dream of being hungry and going to the kitchen. Whenever he picked up a knife in the dream, he would suddenly wake up and discover that he wasnt in his bed. He would be standing in the kitchen with a knife in his hand, gazing at his reflection in the kitchen mirror.


    Prior to these strange events, Lei Long had never walked in his sleep. But now, it happened almost every night.


    Every time, he had the same dream. He would dream of himself cooking in the kitchen then wake up while holding a knife in his hand, gazing at his reflection in the mirror.


    The first thing Lei Long saw every time he woke up was his reflection in the mirror; he would be angrily wielding the knife. He started to find his face more and more unfamiliar. It was as though he had never seen his face before. Yet, that was indeed his face.


    At the same time, the mold spread all over his face. If he touched it or yanked the white hairs down, he would feel sharp pain, and the hairs woulde off with some disgusting mucus.


    Lei Long was scared and looked for treatments everywhere, even visiting a mental hospital. However, he couldnt find a cure. He lived his life in fear and felt that he would soon go crazy...


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lei_Feng

 Chapter 235: The Odd Story of the Child-Eating Monster

    Chapter 235: The Odd Story of the Child-Eating Monster


    The situation became worse when Lei Long realized that he wasnt just sleeping-walking in the kitchen area. He had started to walk around the living room as well, and his wife had been startled awake several times due to his strange behavior.


    One day, something terrible happened. This event finally pushed Lei Long into the abyss of despair.


    That night, Lei Long was rummaging through the house for food as usual. However, he had already eaten all the edible items and was about to go crazy. Eventually, he found a ham sausage and ate it. This awakened his appetite and made him lose his mind.


    While starving, he suddenly thought of his child, who was just one month old.


    During that moment, he didnt see the sleeping child as a precious life. In his mind, the child was just a chunk of soft and fresh meat. He couldnt control himself and grabbed a knife, stepping toward the child.


    If his wife hadnt woken up and rescued their baby, only God knew what would have happened.


    When Lei Long got a hold of himself, he was shocked. His wife didnt dare to stay in the house anymore. No matter how much he begged her, she left with the child.


    Later on, Lei Long felt that it was for the better. If he had done anything to harm their son, he wouldnt have been able to forgive himself.


    Lei Long suspected that some evil creature was pestering him, so he tried to look for an expert.


    However, it wasnt easy to find a capable person that could solve his problem. After getting scammed several times, Lei Long was even more desperate. However, he didnt give up. He kept searching and traveled far and wide, even spending several nights on the streets.


    Although Lei Long didnt go home, those frightening thoughts never left his mind. He still felt hungry every minute of the day, and he often thought about eating children. He simply couldnt control himself, and whenever he saw kids walking on the streets, he would storm forward and try to eat them.


    However, he never seeded. During all those attempts, there were adults around to stop him.


    It was a coincidence, or perhaps it was destiny that Lei Long came across my antique shop as he was searching for an expert.


    When he passed by the shop, he was still struggling to keep his hunger in check. His mind was telling him that he had to eat a child immediately. Otherwise, he would starve to death.


    The hunger was gradually eroding his sanity, but right as he was about to lose his mind and preparing to kidnap a child, his desire suddenly subsided.


    He was surprised and very happy. He thought that he had finally ovee his desire.


    However, as soon as he left the antique shop, those cannibalistic thoughts came back to him, starting to erode his sanity again. Startled, he returned to my antique shop, and his desire subsided again.


    Lei Long tested it several times and came to the conclusion that my antique shop was the safest ce for him.


    However, Iter shooed him away. Left with no choice, he had to look for another ce that could temporarily subdue his desire.


    He didnt expect this new ce to be Yin Xinyues house. However, he didnt know that we were a couple, so he got kicked out again


    After I forced him to leave, those horrific thoughts came back. Since he couldnt find another ce that could subdue his desire, he attacked a kid that was ying on the sidewalk.


    As a result, he was arrested and taken to the police station.


    Lei Long had a grudge against me as Id kicked him out twice. That was why he told Fengshen Nana that I was his partner in crime.


    However, he didnt expect that Fengshen Nana and I acquainted; neither did he expect that I could expel evil spirits. Lei Long became very excited after this discovery and repeated that I had ordered him tomit those crimes. He was hoping that I would be summoned to the police station.


    I knew the rest of the story. Destiny got me involved in Lei Longs troubles


    After listening to him, we all went silent. Fengshen Nana said, Mister Zhang, if you dont help him, this fellow will be kept in detention for two days. After hes released, he will continue to harm society. Perhaps you will even get his disease. You should solve this case!


    From Fengshen Nanas expression, I knew that even if I ignored this guy, she wouldnt let me go.


    This woman really liked to put her nose into other peoples business. Moreover, it was easy for her to talk as I would be the one putting my life on the line while dealing with the otherworldly item!


    Did she think that I could solve the case just by snapping my fingers?


    Lei Long began to beg me when he saw that I had remained silent. Eventually, I said with a sigh, I wonder if I owed you money in my previous life. Take me to your house. I need to check it before I make my decision.


    Lei Long thanked me repeatedly. Fengshen Nana then said, Since youre sick, Ill let you go this time. But if you do it again, Ill shoot you!


    Fengshen Nana was just an ordinary policewoman, but she could deal with this sort of civil dispute pretty easily. After scolding Lei Long for a while, she released the poor man.


    Lei Long was broke, so I had to catch a taxi to take him home.


    The entire way back home, he was a little embarrassed. He kept promising me that if I could help him recover, he would repay me handsomely.


    Lei Long lived inside a neighborhood built by hispany. This neighborhood was probably old since it had rows of tiled houses. I saw the red words, To Be Demolished on the wall. I knew that these tiled houses would be demolished soon and that their owners would receivepensation.


    Although it looked old on the outside, Lei Longs house was clean and tidy on the inside. The ce had a schrly aura, with calligraphy rolls hung on the walls and furniture that was a mix of both vintage and modern styles. It was a pleasant view.


    However, I caught a faint stench in the air; the smell was really nauseous. I frowned and carefully searched for the source of the smell. It came from the kitchen.


    Whats this smell? I asked.


    Lei Long also didnt know. He walked to the kitchen to check. Immediately after, he screamed in shock. What happened? Who did this?!


    Whats going on? My nerves went tense immediately. I hurried to follow him into the kitchen.


    When I saw the things inside the kitchen, my scalp went numb.


    His not-too-big kitchen was stuffed with countless dead animals, including cats, mice, and dogs. Most of them were babies.


    They looked like they had been dead for several days. The corpses formed a pile and were moldy, ayer of white fluff covered them.


    All of them had been killed by a deep wound on their necks. We then spotted a bloody knife that was still deep inside a puppys neck. Swarms of maggots covered the knife, which looked scary as hell.


    I took a deep breath. Who else has your house key? I noticed that your lock wasnt picked.


    Lei Long thought about this, then turned to look at his kitchen door. My wife and I each have a set of keys, but I dont think my wife has any reason to do this


    I gave him a meaningful look.


    He was so frightened that his eyes bulged. Do you mean that I did all of this?


    I nodded and said, Its possible. Do you have any cameras in your house?


    Lei Long was scared. No Who would install a camera in the kitchen? Sir, I dont recall doing any of this. I dont remember killing these animals and stacking them in my kitchen. Moreover, why would I kill them?

 Chapter 236: The Golden Bowl

    Chapter 236: The Golden Bowl


    I shook my head and said, Its hard to exin in a few words. Anyway, when you were controlled, you had lost your mind. Thats why you dont remember.


    Lei Long asked, What should I do now?


    I looked at his pale face and trembling lips. He was frightened, which made him easy prey for any evil spirit to possess.


    If Lei Long got possessed and I wasnt prepared, I might get hurt.


    Lei Long, take two deep breaths. Calm down and then repeat after me, I said as I started to teach him the sacred text of Daoism.


    After reading the text several times, Lei Long finally quieted down. I heaved a sigh of relief.


    Then, I walked around his house to see if I could find any clue.


    After a quick check, I discovered that the ce with the heaviest Yin energy wasnt the kitchen but the bedroom.


    It was strange. Since the kitchen had so many dead animals inside, the Yin energy should have been the strongest there.


    It seemed something very powerful was stored in his bedroom.


    I pushed the bedroom door, but it was locked. I asked Lei Long to open it for me.


    Lei Long frowned. After those events, I started sleeping in the living room. To prevent me from doing dangerous things with that knife, my wife took away the key to this bedroom.


    Such being the case, I could only ask Lei Long to kick the door open.


    Although he looked weak, he had an abnormal amount of strength. He was able to kick the door open with only one attempt.


    After he kicked the door open, I saw a shoe print on it. I grabbed the door to stop it from moving. Then, I looked carefully and saw a moldy shoe print on the board of the door.


    Lei Long also saw the molded print and lifted his foot to check it. He shrieked right after.


    Lei Longs shoe was moldy and rotten. Ayer of white fluff was growing on it, and his foot oozed mucus.


    Lei Long screamed in fear. Oh no... Howe I dont feel anything? Why dont I feel any pain?!


    Although he didnt feel pain, he couldnt stand up anymore. He sat on the ground and nkly looked at his moldy feet.


    I had to enter the bedroom to check things out myself.


    His bedroom was clean and well-ventted. The room looked like something you would see in the series, Bla the Fairies. It was a typical princess room. Childrens products and toys were disyed on the shelves and cupboards. It was totally different from the kitchen.


    I searched around the bedroom and didnt find anything strange.


    I walked out and asked Lei Long, Did you buy anything right before the incident? The closer the time, the better.


    Lei Long contemted for a while then said, I bought my son clothes, milk bottles, and some toys before the ident.


    Is there anything else? Was there anything peculiar?


    Lei Long thought for a while. Then, he patted his head as if he had just remembered something. I remember now! I bought a golden bowl.


    He crawled into his bedroom and opened a safe. Eventually, he took out a small golden bowl. Grandmaster, here it is. Can you tell me if it has a problem? I bought it for my sons birthday. When I returned home that night, all those strange things started to happen


    This is an important detail. Why didnt you tell me earlier? I held the golden bowl and carefully examined it.


    That golden bowl looked very different from the ordinary ones you could find at a jewelry shop. A new golden bowl would have a bright gold color with clear carving patterns. It also should sparkle and reflect in the sunlight.


    But the bowl in front of me was different. Its surface was dim. There were dabs of dirt here and there, and the patterns looked worn out. It looked as if it had been used for quite a long time.


    Moreover, the patterns on the surface were strange. It wasnt the image of the God of Longevity, a figure that was popr on the market. Instead, the design was some flowers and vines.


    I held the bowl in my hands; it was cold and strangely heavy. I doubted that it was a pure golden bowl. It should just be a gold-ted bowl.


    Grandmaster? Lei Long felt impatient as he watched me scrutinize the golden bowl. Did you find anything?


    I contemted then said, Where did you get this golden bowl?


    Lei Long hesitated then said, From an antique shop. Is that a problem?


    I was startled. Why did you go to an antique shop to buy a golden bowl? An item like this should be bought from a jewelry shop.


    I could conclude that this golden bowl was an otherworldly item. Also, since it was bought from an antique shop, it was definitely an antique.


    Lei Long said, One of my friends works at an antique shop. This golden bowl is the new treasure they had recently collected from a countryside area. They said its from thete Ming dynasty and early Qing dynasty. He didnt want to sell the bowl to me, but I insisted a lot to get it. Is there something wrong with it?


    I was puzzled. Tell me, why did you buy this golden bowl? If you wanted to celebrate your sons birthday, wasnt it better to go to a jewelry shop to buy the item?


    Because He looked hesitant. I didnt have enough money on hand, and the jewelry shop didnt take credit. I bought it from that friend on credit.


    I understood it now.


    However, this golden bowl is evil. Didnt your friend tell you that? It should have caused some problems while it was with him.


    Lei Long sighed and said, My friend had just gotten it from the countryside. He didnt have it long enough before I bought it from him. I guess he didnt know that the bowl was evil. Otherwise, he would have never sold it to me We are close friends.


    I sneered. Is that so?


    Lei Long was shocked. You mean that... my friend purposely did that to harm me?


    I shook my head. Im not sure. However, better safe than sorry.


    Lei Long gritted his teeth. Ive always considered that bastard a good brother. I never thought that he would treat me like that. If he actually did that to me, I will kill his entire family!


    I hurried to calm him down. We dont have any evidence. We cant use him just yet.


    Lei Long got a hold of himself. What should we do now?


    You said that if you sleep at my antique shop, your desire to eat children is subdued, right? I think the geomancy of my antique shop might be able to affect this golden bowl.


    Lei Long nodded. Right, how about we bring this golden bowl to your shop to see the results?


    I shook my head as I wasnt a fool.


    I was about to get married, and if I took this bowl to my shop, it would be no different from bringing bad luck to myself. I was okay if it brought me bad luck, but what if it affected my shops geomancy? I would lose more than what I could gain.


    I used to hear from my grandfather that although our antique shop was in a remote corner, it was located in the eye of the citys geomantic formation. It could also absorb spirit energy from the surroundings. If this golden bowl ruined my shops geomancy, perhaps it would ruin the geomancy of the entire city. If that happened, I would regret it forever.


    I hade to the conclusion that my grandfather had told the truth So many years had passed and countless fires and car crashes happened on other streets, but nothing terrible had happened on our street. Moreover, there were several times when the buildings in our street were to be demolished, but those ns were ultimately canceled. I guessed a lot of it was rted to the geomancy of my antique shop.


    This particr geomancy setup was known as Fortune Congregating Setup. After dozens of years, the economy of the city developed, and my antique streets value had also increased.


    Since I had rejected his idea, Lei Long became distressed. What should we do then?


    Its simple. Even the soil from an area with great geomancy holds power. We just need to bring some soil here; its aura should create the same effect!


    I immediately called Li Mazi and asked him to go to my shop and dig up some soil.


    It was dangerous to run around with this golden bowl, so it would be better if Li Mazi delivered some soil directly to our current location.

 Chapter 237: Corpse-Eating Ghost

    Chapter 237: Corpse-Eating Ghost


    After calling Li Mazi, I asked Lei Long to tell me more about the person that sold him the golden bowl.


    I had to know whether hed wanted to harm Lei Long or not.


    However, Lei Long had already decided that his friend wanted to harm him. He purposely twisted the information and made his friend sound like the culprit. Unable to get anything useful out of it, I could only drop the subject.


    Soon after, Li Mazi arrived with a stic bag full of dirt. He panted like an ox and said, Holy moly, if you need a favor like thister, dont call me. On my way here, people looked at me as if I had just escaped from an asylum.


    I burst outughing. I could imagine Li Mazi trying his best to exin to the people why he had to dig up some soil.


    Li Mazi was puzzled and asked me, Why do you need a bag of dirt? Can you sell this stuff for money? I can dig up a hundred-meter plot ofnd around your antique shop.


    Iughed. No, its not for sale. I need to test Lei Longs golden bowl.


    Then, I handed Li Mazi the bowl.


    Li Mazi was immediately attracted to the bowl. He turned the bowl around in his hands and studied it. After a while, he frowned. Theres something wrong with this golden bowl.


    Oh, what is it? I was surprised that Li Mazi had spotted something. I asked for his opinion.


    This golden bowl is an otherworldly item, but it should be part of a set. There should also be a pair of chopsticks. We have the bowl here, so where are the chopsticks?


    After listening to Li Mazi, I also frowned.


    <em>Right, how could I not think about that? This sort of otherworldly item should be in a pair. We have only the golden bowl here, which means that the golden chopsticks are missing Jewelry shops often sell these items in pairs, right?</em>


    I nodded and looked pensive. It seems the golden bowl has shown its spirit because the golden chopsticks were missing.


    I remembered my first case, when I dealt with a pair of embroidered shoes that got separated. At the time, Li Mazi had almost lost his life. There was also the case of the ancient ax and zither, where their respective owners were tossed around a lot.


    In ancient times, only rich and powerful families could own an item like this golden bowl, so the spirit in the golden bowl could be from a family of warriors. Some ghosts became more ferocious after their death; I had to be cautious if I wanted to deal with this bowl.


    I scooped up some soil and put it in the golden bowl. Then, I carefully watched the bowl to see if there was any reaction.


    We waited anxiously for half an hour, but nothing happened.


    I reluctantly took all the soil out.


    Lei Long was very anxious. He asked, Whats happening? The soil from your shop didnt work?


    I exined, Perhaps its because its still daytime. Even if theres a gruesome spirit in this bowl, its sleeping right now. If we dont attack it, it wonte out. The soil from my shop can only subdue it. If it doesnte out, then of course, the soil is useless. We should try again tonight!


    Lei Long nodded in puzzlement.


    It was around 6:30 PM, which meant there was still some time until midnight. In order to seed in one attempt, I chose to wait until the spirit showed itself before using the soil.


    Lei Long bought us a quick dinner. I could tell that this fellow was broke because he owed money to the restaurant as well. I really pitied him. He was a well-educated man with a decent job, but now he didnt even have money to buy a meal. I decided to pay in his stead.


    Lei Long was touched and continuously thanked me.


    I gave Lei Long one thousand renminbi. After we solve this case, I want you to give me the golden bowl. I wont charge you any fee for this case.


    Lei Long agreed immediately and happily received the one-thousand-renminbi note.


    When will you pay the money you owe your friend for buying this bowl? I asked.


    Lei Long couldnt hold his anger. Im not going to pay him! That man has ruined my family. Its good enough that I havent killed him!


    I saw that the situation had gotten a little serious. I hadnt confirmed if his friend wanted to deliberately harm him. Id just casually mentioned him, and now Lei Long was too deep into the matter.


    I warned him, Ive only assumed that your friend might want to harm you. You shouldnt jump to any conclusion as of now. You should talk to him first!


    Lei Long nodded. However, from his tone, I could tell that he was already very biased.


    I knew that Lei Long wouldnt listen to my words, so I just continued to watch the golden bowl.


    After dinner, we waited at Lei Longs house. Li Mazi didnt have anything to do, so he began to explore the ce. He glided here and there like a ghost. Inadvertently, he entered the kitchen that was packed with dead animals.


    When Li Mazi saw the piles of dead puppies, kittens, and mice in the kitchen, he almost peed himself. After looking at Li Mazis frightened face, Iughed.


    Time ticked by, and it was soon past midnight.


    I started observing the golden bowl one hour ago. Under the light, the golden bowl looked ck. There was ayer of mist on the surface, but if one took a careful look, theyer would disappear.


    It was the materialization of Yin energy. Only an extremely resentful spirit could do that. My heart was now filled with fear.


    As soon as it was past midnight, Li Mazi tensed up. He muttered to me, Should I put the soil into the bowl?


    I waved my hands at Li Mazi. Not yet. We should just watch for now. Do it when I give the signal.


    Li Mazi nodded.


    Soon after, a strange phenomenon took ce.


    At first, a dark shadow appeared above the bowl. It looked as if a small doll was spinning around it.


    Then, the bowl began to vibrate, issuing a nging sounds when hitting the table. Although the vibration was minor, it didnt escape my eyes.


    I took a deep breath and called for Li Mazi. Hurry, put the soil in!


    In the meantime, I also took out a Ksitigarbha Talisman and prepared to use it.


    That talisman was a gift from Zen Master Baimei. Hed given me three to use in case of emergency.


    The moment I saw thatyer of mist on the surface of the golden bowl, Id decided to use the talismans The evil spirit was really powerful, and I wasnt sure if I could deal with it.


    The golden bowl seemed to feel the pressureing from the soil. It wasnt ready for a fight, so after shaking several times, it quieted down andid still like an inanimate item.


    Lei Long carefully asked, Is it done?


    I furrowed my brows because I knew it wasnt that simple. I carefully touched the bowl, and it was freezing cold.


    As I was about to pick up the golden bowl, something strange happened. The bowl suddenly became very heavy; it was as if it had taken root in the table. No matter how hard I pulled, I couldnt lift it.


    I was shocked. I stood up and held the bowl with both hands and pulled harder. Still, the bowl didnt move.


    Li Mazi looked at me with a confused face. What are you doing?


    This golden bowl wont move, I answered.


    When I retreated my hands, I was frightened. I saw that my palms werepletely pale. It was as if no blood was inside my veins.


    I became even more fearful. <em>What secret is hidden in the bowl? Howe I couldnt lift it up?</em>


    Li Mazi also reached out and tried to take the bowl. However, as soon as he touched it, he retracted his hands. Holy moly, is this a golden bowl or an ice bowl?


    Lei Long wasnt convinced, so he also tried to touch the bowl.


    Unexpectedly, the bowl began to shake as soon as Lei Longs hands touched it, and he was able to pick it up easily.


    However, since he exerted much more force than needed, the golden bowl was sent up into the air. It slipped off his hands and fell, sprinkling the dirt everywhere.


    Li Mazi was enraged. Youve done more damage than good!


    Afterward, he prepared to gather the dirt on the ground and put it back into the golden bowl.


    However, it was toote. Li Mazi had just taken a step forward when the golden bowl projected a dazzling golden light. The light beams from the bowl were so strong that we couldnt open our eyes.


    I vaguely saw a strange figure emerging in the splendid golden light. It was a woman who calmly hovered above the golden bowl.


    Who are you? I took a deep breath and looked at her.


    The woman blurted out, Im very hungry.


    Hungry? You can starve! retorted Li Mazi. He wasnt scared but yelled and scolded her, Who the heck are you?


    The woman didnt mind us and headed toward the kitchen, passing through the door and disappearing.


    The golden light projected by the golden bowl subsided and vanished. The bowl turned back to its dim, dark appearance.


    Lei Long nervously looked at me and said, Grandmaster, she went to the kitchen


    <em>Yeah, I can see that!</em> I threw Lei Long a sidelong nce then tiptoed to the kitchen. Since the resentful soul could talk to us, I knew that it was really powerful.


    I held the talisman in my hands and shivered. I wondered if the talisman in my hand could really defeat the woman.


    When I came close to the kitchen door, I heard loud chewing noises.


    I took a deep breath then pasted the talisman onto the door. I turned to Lei Long and asked, From where can we see the scene inside the kitchen?


    Since we were facing a powerful female ghost, I didnt dare to go there alone.


    Lei Long thought for a moment then answered, Theres a skylight; we can see the kitchen from there.


    Lets go. Well look at the scene through the skylight.


    I took the other two out of the house and carefully climbed to the skylight. Then, I looked down into the kitchen.


    The woman was squatting in a dark corner of the kitchen, and dead animals surrounded her.


    Her mouth was wide open and she was eating something. Her hands casually grabbed a translucent form from the pile of corpses and brought it to her mouth.


    I was startled. This ghost could directly eat souls!


    Every living being in this world had a soul, and each soul had threeponents. They were the Earthly Soul, Heavenly Soul, and Mortal Soul.


    After a person died, their Heavenly Soul and Earthly Soul would return to heavens and earth respectively, while the Mortal Soul would stay in the body.


    As such, whenever people saw ghosts, what they were looking at were iplete Mortal Souls. It was also the reason ghosts didnt have a sane mind.


    Since those animals were killed tragically, their Mortal Souls should still be in their bodies. If that female ghost could directly take the souls out and devour them, then she couldnt be weaker than a Ghost King.


    Since I wasnt well-prepared, I didnt have the guts to provoke her. I decided to call it a night. Tomorrow, we would prepare the right tools and take care of her!

 Chapter 238: The Strange Man that Jumped Off the Building

    Chapter 238: The Strange Man that Jumped Off the Building


    The moment I was about to close the skylight, I heard someone knock on the door.


    I was confused. It was reallyte at night. Who woulde to Lei Longs house at this hour?


    As I thought about this, I felt something grab my shoulder. I turned my head but didnt see anything; no one was there.


    I exhaled in relief, shivering right after.


    <em>Wait, where did Li Mazi and Lei Long go? They were right behind me! How could they disappear in the blink of an eye?</em>


    Fear flooded my heart. I remembered the knocking sound. Was it possible that Li Mazi and Lei Long were knocking on the kitchen door?


    My scalp tingled as I thought about it. I didnt hesitate and entered the house to stop the two.


    However, as soon as I stepped into the house, I heard the kitchen door open with a squeak. It seemed I was toote.


    Left with no choice, I got out and climbed up to see through the skylight one more time.


    Li Mazi and Lei Long were stiffly moving into the kitchen. They picked up the golden bowl and walked toward the shadow. Then, they squatted next to her. The shadow began talking to them, and I could hear the indistinct sounds of her mutters.


    I wanted to storm into the room to stop them, but the duo suddenly stood up. Lei Long walked to the chopping board and picked up a knife.


    Li Mazi smiled as he stood in front of him. Then, he spread his limbs. It looked as if he was waiting for Lei Long to chop his arms and legs off.


    Lei Long wielded his knife and aimed it at Li Mazi. I sweated in fright. <em>Lei Long wants to take Li Mazis life!</em>


    It was dangerous, but did I have a choice?


    I jumped through the skylight and kicked Lei Long. At the same time, I took out another talisman and held it tightly in my hand. Evil creature, you dare to take others lives so brazenly, surrender immediately!


    The shadow sneered. She ignored me and continued to eat the souls.


    Lei Long hissed and got up. Then, he wielded his knife and tried to kill me.


    I instinctively raised my leg and prepared to kick him away, but a strong force pulled my leg back halfway.


    When I lowered my head to see what it was, I was shocked. Li Mazi was hugging my leg, ring at me.


    I saw the knifeing at me, and I threw myself to the ground to dodge. I evaded, but the knife still left a cut on my thigh!


    As Iy on the ground, I angrily wiggled out of Li Mazis grip. Then, I rolled out of the kitchen. Li Mazi and Lei Long followed closely behind me.


    Seeing that they were getting closer, I threw myself to the ground and picked up the golden bowl. I ignited the talisman with a lighter and shoved it into it.


    ARGHHHH!


    A terrifying roar came from the kitchen. Almost immediately after, I saw a dark shadow that swirled like a tornado. It came toward me and disappeared into the bowl.


    Li Mazi and Lei Long were still attacking me. However, they were much weaker than before. I easily snatched the knife from Lei Longs hand and threw it away. Then, I pped each of them twice.


    After being pped, they quickly got a hold of themselves. They exchanged looks then red at me. What did you do to us?


    I angrily scowled. Is this how you want to repay your savior? If it werent for me, you guys would be dead already!


    The two of them were frightened. What happened?


    I told them about the events that just urred, and their faces turned pale. Lei Long was especially scared. His temples were now covered in ayer of cold sweat. Damn, she wants me to kill other people!


    Damn it. If I get the opportunity, Ill kill her! Anyway, why is my butt hurting? Li Mazi rubbed his buttcheeks. Then, his hand touched something sticky.


    Li Mazi was bewildered and saw that his palm was soaked in a thick and viscous liquid. What is this?


    Lei Longughed and said, Were you so afraid that you peed yourself?


    Nonsense! That wasnt scary at all, said Li Mazi.


    However, a horrible thought came to my head. <em>Did Li Mazi also get that creepy, moldy disease?</em>


    I told myself it was impossible. After all, even if he got infected, it wouldnt be so fast.


    However, I couldnt ease my mind, so I asked Li Mazi to take off his pants. I wanted to check what was going on.


    Li Mazi was shy and didnt want to. I fumed, You almost died, and you still care about your dignity? Were all men. Why do you need to be shy?


    Left with no choice, Li Mazi took his pants off so that I could have a look.


    When I saw his buttcheeks, I couldn''t help but shiver.


    Li Mazis buttcheeks were moldy, with fluffy white hairs growing on them. The hairs were around half a centimeter long, and although they werent dense, they were still very awful to see.


    Li Mazi pulled up his pants and asked, What did you see?


    I didnt want to scare him, so I didnt say anything. Li Mazi wasnt convinced, so he turned to ask Lei Long.


    I shook my head at Lei Long, signaling him not to tell Li Mazi.


    Lei Long kept his mouth shut, so Li Mazi exhaled in relief.


    Grandmaster, did you seal that ghost? I saw her scream and ran into the golden bowl earlier, asked Lei Long.


    I sighed. I just scared her a bit. Sooner orter, she will show up again.


    Lei Long was worried. What now? Why didn''t you try to finish her off?


    You think too highly of me. I snorted. Its already good enough that I could scare her and make her quiet for a while. This thing that youve provoked is really scary. Shes much more powerful than any of the ghosts Ive encountered so far.


    Lei Long was frightened. Really? What do we do then? Dont tell me that you dont have any solutions.


    I said reluctantly, If we want to subdue this otherworldly item, we need to know the story behind it. Once we have this knowledge, we can win. Anyway, we wont be in danger tonight. Tomorrow, you have to take me to this friend that sold you the golden bowl. I have to know about the bowls origin.


    Lei Long sighed. Why is my life so miserable? I just bought a golden bowl. How could it cause so much trouble?


    Just as I sat down on the sofa, I heard Li Mazi shriek. Holy moly, whats this? What happened to me?


    I had a bad premonition and turned to look at him. He had taken his pants off again. He was continuously spanking his butt. Behind him was a full-length mirror, which he used to observe his own butt.


    Li Mazi saw the mold on his butt.


    I had no choice but tofort him. I asked him not to touch the mold as it wouldnt be good if it grew faster.


    Lei Long alsoforted Li Mazi. Dont be scared. Look at me. I have mold all over my body, but Im still alive.


    Then, he showed Li Mazi the moldy spots on his body.


    When Li Mazi saw Lei Longs horrible condition, he gawked in shock. Then, he shrieked again.


    Oh shoot, oh shoot... Even if I have to die, I dont want to end up like that!


    For the rest of the night, Li Mazi was terrified. Every now and then, he would check his butt. If his entire body grew mold, his life would be over.


    Now, I felt even more determined to solve this case.


    We waited until dawn and asked Lei Long to bring us to the shop where he had bought the item.


    Lei Long told me that his friend was famous in the circle of the antique business and had even gotten his hands on many national treasures. He was also into the ck market business. Due to the nature of his profession, he was a cunning person.


    However, when we arrived at his friends ce, we saw that the door was closed. Although we kept knocking for quite a long time, no one came to open the door.


    Lei Long called him, but no one picked up the phone.


    In the end, we had to leave.


    However, as soon as we turned around, a shadow shed above our heads. Then, we heard a loud thud, and blood sshed everywhere.


    The muffled sound shook my eardrums, and I couldnt get a hold of myself for quite a long time.


    Lei Long screamed loudly, which brought me back to my senses.


    A broken, mangled bodyy on the ground in front of us.


    The muffled sound came from this person that had fallen off the building.


    Since the building was around a hundred meters high, it would be strange if the body was still intact.


    The body had broken into three sections. I saw a pair of legs, a torso, and a head. The scene was a mess. All the organs were scattered around, and blood had sshed far away. Eventually, the blood had created a smiley face on the ground.


    Anybody who saw the incident would have a hard time standing, right?


    At least, my legs felt like jelly.


    Although I had seen all kinds of horrifying scenes, this tragic death had shocked me greatly.


    Thats Old Tie. He sold me the golden bowl! Lei Long screamed. Hes dead?!


    Look at his hand. Li Mazi suddenly pointed at the corpses hand. His hand is still grabbing onto a pair of chopsticks!

 Chapter 239: Ghost Marriage

    Chapter 239: Ghost Marriage


    I immediately looked around the body and started searching for clues. I found one of his arms next to a trash bin.


    The bones were sticking out, and the scene looked terrifying.


    The hand gripped onto a pair of chopsticks. It was a pair of golden chopsticks with clear and sharp edges. The ends were extraordinarily smooth, and the craftsmanship was exquisite. They perfectly matched the golden bowl.


    Sure enough, Lei Longs friend had kept the chopsticks!


    I took a deep breath, and while the crowd had yet to gather, I quietly took the bloody chopsticks away. Then, I acted as if nothing had happened and kept looking at the scene.


    Lei Long was so nervous. Grandmaster, s-should we leave now? We have the chopsticks. I guess we can deal with that golden bowl now.


    I shook my head. Havent you noticed that something is strange? Why did your friend suddenly jump off the building tomit suicide? Why now of all times?


    Lei Long shook his head. I dont know, but I dont think its rted to me.


    I then pointed at the back of the body. Take a look at the back of his body. Tell me if you see anything.


    Lei Long looked and then sweated. A A ck handprint?! A ghost pushed him?


    I nodded. If Im not mistaken, he encountered the same situation as you. However, he didnt find an expert that could help him, and the ghost killed him.


    This proves that theres another independent resentful spirit inside this pair of chopsticks! Sigh, I dont know if it will be good or bad to put the bowl and the chopsticks together...


    "If the golden bowl and these chopsticks are a pair, could the evil spirits that live inside them be a couple? They got separated, and this enraged them. But if we reunite them, they should calm down, right? suggested Lei Long.


    Their rtionship seems veryplicated. Its useless to guess. Lets go! I wasnt in the mood to linger here. I turned around and left with both of them.


    When we got to the house, I looked at the golden bowl. I didnt have the guts to put the two items together.


    There was still a doubt in my heart. Why didnt that person sell both items to Lei Long? If he sold both of the items to Lei Long, nothing would have happened.


    Did he create this mess just because he was selfish?


    Li Mazi asked me what was wrong since he saw that I was pensive. I told him my concern.


    Li Mazi thought and then suggested, Lets try to put the golden bowl and chopsticks together. I want to see if anything strange happens. Its broad daylight right now, and even if the spirit shows up, it wont be able to threaten us that much.


    He had a point. No matter how powerful the ghost was, in broad daylight, it would be weakened. It wouldnt be able to take our lives.


    After considering things, I gently ced the chopsticks across the golden bowl and waited for a reaction.


    However, the golden bowl and the golden chopsticks seemed to be inanimate objects; there was no reaction.


    I used the chopsticks and gently knocked on the bowl. It created a clear sound, but nothing else happened.


    It was strange. If the golden bowl had created a mess because of their separation, something should have happened as they were now reunited! However, everything was strangely normal. I felt a little confused.


    As I watched the golden bowl and the chopsticks, Lei Longs phone rang. He nced at his phone, and his face turned tense.


    I looked at Lei Longs strange expression. It seemed something had happened. Curiously, I asked him, Who called you?


    Lei Long said, Its my friends wife.


    I was confused. Her husband was dead. Why did she call Lei Long? There were only two possibilities. The first one, she suspected that her husbands death was somewhat rted to Lei Long. The second possibility was this woman and Lei Long had an affair.


    From Lei Longs tone, I guessed it was thetter.


    After Lei Long hung up, I said, Why did she call you?


    At first, Lei Long tried to dodge the topic. He didnt want to tell us. However, since I kept pushing him, he had to spit it out.


    It turned out Lei Long did have an unusual rtionship with his friends wife. However, they thought that they werent to be med because his friend was a workaholic. He had only work in his head, and he often ignored his wife.


    They were both married people, so even if they wanted to satisfy their physical needs, they did not want to ruin their respective families.


    Anyway, after Lei Longs friend collected the golden bowl and the chopsticks, he began to act strange. He decided to divorce his wife and was very determined about it.


    His friend was well-known for loving his wife. And now, he suddenly asked to divorce. This scared his wife a lot. She thought that their secret was discovered.


    However, no one knew about their affair, so how had her husband got wind of it?


    Then, while they were fighting about their divorce case, Lei Longs friend killed himself by jumping off a building


    I patted my head. I finally had a clue!


    Ever since he obtained the golden bowl and the chopsticks, he had started to quarrel with his wife. It was obvious that the otherworldly items had started to mess with him.


    <em>But why did the otherworldly item make them fight and eventually divorce? What was its purpose? Could it be</em>


    I didnt dare to continue thinking about this topic as I was startled by the thought that had emerged in my mind.


    How is it going? Li Mazi was puzzled as he saw me absorbed in my thoughts.


    I took a deep breath and said, Lei Long, you have to do as I say. I want to check what this golden bowl intends to do.


    Lei Long nodded. What do you want me to do?


    Go buy some paper money and clothes to burn to the dead. The sooner, the better. It wont be safe if it gets dark.


    Lei Long nodded and left.


    After he left, Li Mazi asked me, What do you want to do?


    I contemted and said, I think that the spirit inside the golden bowl and chopsticks want to have a ghost marriage!


    A ghost marriage? Li Mazi jerked back in shock. A ghost that wants to get married? Isnt that too perverted?


    Its not what you think, I said. The purpose of a ghost marriage isnt to have sex with living people but to absorb the spouses vitality. Once it gets ghost married to a living person, it can easily draw upon their vitality


    Lei Longs friend loved his wife a lot, right? Perhaps he didnt want to hurt his wife, so he took advantage of the fact that he was still sane and jumped off the roof. Of course, it could be that he didnt want to get married to a ghost, which enraged the ghost and got him killed.


    Li Mazi nodded and looked pensive. Little Brother Zhang, I have a serious question I want to ask. Is it possible for me to have a ghost marriage with Chu Chu? Also, after we get ghost married, can we be closer? For example, will I be able to dream about her every night?


    I felt helpless. It seemed Li Mazi couldnt let go of Chu Chu just yet.


    However, this wasnt strange. Someone like Li Mazi would either never fall in love or love his partner forever and disregard all consequences.


    I didnt want to just stand and watch Li Mazi ruin his life because of Chu Chu. I talked him out of it. The ghost marriage will only create a vague connection. Theres nothing good in it for the both of you. It will hold Chu Chu back, and she will never be able to reincarnate. She would have to stay in hell and receive torment forever.


    Li Mazi sighed, disappointed.


    Not long after, Lei Long came back. He held a big bag of paper money.


    I asked him to put the paper money on the ground and use a pair of scissors to cut a human doll out of it. You should keep this paper doll and walk around with it in your living room. Remember, you have to count the number of steps you take. Circle around the living room twice. I will call you when you need to stop.


    Lei Long nodded. He held the paper doll and started to walk around his living room.


    I gathered the remaining paper money and burned it in a corner as I carefully watched Lei Long.


    Lei Long walked in a circle around the living room, his eyes closed.


    Id learned this trick from Chuyi. Thest time we used this method, itd worked well.


    At first, everything seemed normal. However, when Lei Long started the second round, I noticed that his steps were strange


    Sometimes, he just stepped on the spot. Other times, he made a long stride or just a small step.


    Also, Lei Long didnt seem to notice this. He still walked normally, and his face remained calm.


    After Lei Long finished the second round, he stopped and opened his eyes. He looked fearful and turned to look at me. Grandmaster, t-there is problem


    I asked him, What happened?


    I took me thirty steps toplete the first round but forty-two for the second one


    Forty-two minus thirty is... twelve I gulped. This number was really ominous. In ancient times, when people held a ghost wedding, the groom would give twelve copper coins to the bride as a wedding gift!


    While I was absorbed in my thoughts, Lei Long suddenly shivered. Then, several coins rolled out of his sleeves. They created a series of clinking noises as they rolled on the ground.


    I was startled and rushed forward to catch them.


    More coins rolled out of Lei Longs other sleeve. Although I knew that the coins might be dangerous, I had no choice but to act. I couldnt let all twelve coins drop to the ground. Otherwise, it would mean that Lei Long had given his wedding gift to the golden bowl!

 Chapter 240: The Twelve Coins

    Chapter 240: The Twelve Coins


    Luckily, I was fast enough to catch two of the coins.


    I didnt have time to exin the situation to Lei Long and started to count the coins.


    There were ten coins scattered on the ground. With the two in my hand, they were twelve in total.


    Lei Longs face turned pale, and his voice was shaking. GrandmasterWhat does this mean? Where did these coinse from?


    I contemted then said, It seems my guess was correct. The spirit living inside the golden bowl wants to have a ghost marriage with you.


    A ghost marriage? Oh my gosh! Lei Long lost his bnce andnded on his butt.


    Why does that resentful spirit want to get married to me? Who is she?


    I picked up a coin and showed it to Lei Long. The coin had two words written on it. They were, Hongwu Tongbao, [1] which proved that it was a coin from the Ming dynasty. Emperor Hongwu was the founder of the Ming dynasty.


    It seemed that the female ghost came from the Ming dynasty.


    Lei Long had a gloomy face as he looked at me. If she has a ghost marriage with me, will I die?


    Dont worry, I said. The twelve coins havent all reached the ground. Therefore, she cant marry you just yet.


    Then, I carefully put away the coins. Ill keep these two coins safe. We cannot allow them to fall to the ground.


    Lei Long nodded. Grandmaster, do you have any way to restrain that ghost?


    I thought for a moment. Lets just wait until tonight. There should be no problem.


    Lei Long nodded. Grandmaster, do you need to prepare anything? We must prepare well for tonight. I dont want to be tossed around like this again.


    I nodded. Im going back to prepare the tools. We should try to solve the case tonight.


    The moment we went out, a woman came to Lei Longs door.


    It was a mature, sexy woman with thick makeup. She wore a short denim skirt, which highlighted her long, delicate legs.


    Lei Long told us that the visitor was histe friends wife.


    <em>Her husband has just died, what is she doing there?</em> I scolded her in my heart.


    I ignored her and directly left with Li Mazi. Before leaving, I asked Lei Long not to leave his house no matter what.


    Lei Long nodded. After seeing us off, he went into the house with the woman.


    Only God knew what they would do in the room. This woman came to seekfort, and Lei Long was willing to provide it


    On the way back, Li Mazi kept scolding and cursing. That woman is really shameless! She came to another man right after her husbands death. If it were me, I would p her to death!


    As Li Mazi kept nagging nonstop, my ears had started to hurt. However, it was good that he was this lively and could vent out his anger. At least, he wouldnt think about having a ghost marriage with Chu Chu.


    While driving, Li Mazi suddenly screeched, and his foot pressed on the brakes.


    If I hadnt secured my seatbelt, I guessed I would have hit the windshield.


    I shot Li Mazi an angry look. Why did you suddenly hit the brakes? Do you want to kill me?


    Li Mazi clutched his butt and cried, Its my butt. I think my butts growing mold again


    Let me see, I urged.


    This time, Li Mazi didnt care about his pride. He quickly pulled his pants down to show me his butt.


    After seeing his rear end, I gasped. The mold on Li Mazis butt had started to spread. The white hairs looked even longer. But then, I recognized that the lengths of the fluffy hairs on his butt werent equal. They formed a strange pattern that resembled a coin.


    I could even read the two words, Hongwu Tongbao.


    I was shocked to see the moldy white spots grow at speed visible to the naked eye. I concluded that the female ghost couldnt wait any longer.


    While I looked at Li Mazis butt, Lei Long called me. He cried and whined on the phone. Grandmaster, can youe back please? I think Im going to die. I can''t stand it anymore


    What happened?


    Lei Long sobbed louder. The moldy spots on my body spread further... Can you guess what they grew into? I saw in the mirror


    Is it a coin? I asked.


    Lei Long was surprised but still managed to answer. Yes, grandmaster. How do you know that?


    I took a deep breath. <em>It seems that the evil spirit cant wait any longer.</em>


    I knew what she meant by it. She was pressing me to throw the two coins I had kept. As she couldnt jump out of the bowl to attack the two directly, she was using some method to make mold grow on their bodies


    Saving their lives was of crucial importance, so it was best to satisfy the ghosts request for now. Otherwise, both of them could die!


    It didnt really care if Lei Long died, but Li Mazi was different. If he died because of Lei Long, it would be too unjust.


    I had no time to think. I gritted my teeth and threw the two coins to the ground.


    The moment the coins touched the ground, the mold on Li Mazis body stopped growing. Li Mazis pain also subsided. However, the memory of the pain still made him shiver. He was exhausted andy on the seat. What happened just now? Im out of that house already. How could the ghost control the mold?


    I force a smile. How can I know?


    I asked Li Mazi to pull his pants up. There were already several people giving us weird looks through the windshield. I was sure they thought we were a gay couple.


    After Li Mazi dressed himself, he didnt dare to sit anymore. I asked him to lie on his stomach on the passenger seat while I took the wheel.


    Since the twelve coins had been tossed to the ground, Lei Long had given the ghost the wedding gift. Tonight, the female ghost would surelye to visit Lei Long to get married to him. I couldnt imagine the consequences if we failed to stop them tonight It would be much harder to stop this ghostter on.


    Whether the case would end in sess or failure, it would be decided tonight!


    When I got home, I searched around for any tools I could use.


    I still had one Ksitigarbha Talisman and also the Sirius Whip, which should be able to hold back the ghost for a while.


    I then found a rose that was carved from wood.


    When I saw the rose, my eyes brightened. <em>Isnt this the best magic tool to solve the ghost marriage?</em>


    My grandfather had told me about this wooden rose. It was called Peach Soul Flower because it was carved from peach wood. This rose had been watered with the tears of one hundred pregnant women and a drop of essence blood from the handsome Pan An. [2]


    The Peach Soul Flower looked beautiful and unharmful. Ghosts couldnt even sense the Yang energy the rose contained. However, once ghosts touched this flower, the enormous Yang energy would burst out and cover the spirit form.


    As long as the spirit hadnt reached the level of a great monster, the Yang energy inside the Peach Soul Flower could easily kill them.


    However, since the Peach Soul Flower was very intimidating and its effectsted a long time, it would use up all of the Yang energy in just one use. If I wanted to use the rose again, I would have to wait for one more year. That was why I had never thought about using the Peach Soul Flower under normal circumstances.


    However, the time to use it hade


    But how could I make the ghoste into contact with the Peach Soul Flower? A n slowly emerged in my head.


    I carefully wrapped up the Peach Soul Flower and headed towards Lei Longs house with Li Mazi.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaiyuan_Tongbao


    2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pan_Yue_(poet)

 Chapter 241: Entering the Wedding Room With the Ghost

    Chapter 241: Entering the Wedding Room With the Ghost


    The woman had left already, and Lei Long was lying t on the ground, panting like an ox.


    I hurried to lift him up. He was so weak that he couldnt even stand up on his own. He screamed in pain when I touched him.


    I took his shirt off to check, and his whole upper body was covered in moldy spots. Some had even turned ck.


    It was a disgusting sight. He looked like a big chunk of pork that had been exposed to hot weather for a month.


    Mucus was continuously oozing through the dried, cracked skin; the smell he was exuding was awful.


    Li Mazi shivered when he saw this. I guessed he was picturing the same thing happening to his butt.


    Lei Long weakly asked, Grandmaster Can you, can you satisfy myst request?


    Whats that? I asked.


    I know I know I cant live for long, Lei Long said. The ghost is too powerful. You wont You wont be able to subdue her. In case In case I die... I hope you could free my soul so that I can reincarnate. I dont want to end up mingling with that ghost. I dont want to be tortured after I die.


    Lei Long had lost all hope.


    I hurried tofort him. Dont worry. Im here now, and you will be all right.


    Lei Long sighed, still unconvinced. Do you have any n?


    I said, If we cant use force, we can try a soft method! I cant tell you any details for now, but when the timees, youll have to listen to me.


    It was hard for Lei Long just to nod his head. Grandmaster, Im well aware of my situation. My life is in your hands, so just do what you can. If you can solve this matter, please do. If you cant, please give me a quick death. To be honest, I disgust myself when I see the mold on my body.


    Okay, just listen to me tonight.


    I then started my arrangements.


    I wanted to turn the room into a wedding room. Of course, as it was a ghost marriage, every decoration should be in white.


    We hung up a pair of white couplets on the door: The bounds of Earth and Heaven are separated by twilight and dawn. Borderless love crosses the Mundane World and the Netherworld!


    I had hired an old teacher to write these couplets. He specialized in performing ghost marriages, and I had asked him to teach me everything he knew.


    Then, I started to decorate the wedding room.


    We hung white banners and set up two chairs with backrests, cing a portrait on each chair.


    The left portrait was Lei Longs.


    The other portrait should be the brides. However, we didnt know how she looked like, so we only framed a white paper.


    I added a white ribbon flower on the portrait frames. Lei Long had an eerie look in the ck-and-white portrait; his face was bony, and his eyes nk.


    I also added some drawings on the wall behind the chairs, including drawings of Emperor Hongwu, the Matchmaker Deity, as well as the Ox-Headed and Horse-Faced guardians of Hell.


    I had bought those drawings from the old teacher. Emperor Hongwu represented the brides parents. Since she had lived in Emperor Hongwus time and we didnt know her parents, we could only invite Emperor Hongwu to represent her family.


    Of course, the Matchmaker Deity was there to connect the groom and the bride, while Ox-Headed and Horse-Faced guardians would stand as witnesses. After the ghost marriage was celebrated, the union would hold, no matter if they were alive or dead.


    White linens were also used in the bedroom. Once everything was arranged, we waited until night time.


    Darkness came fast. I took out the soul summoning banner from underneath the bed. This banner had a lot of bells attached to it. The slightest wind would make the bells jingle unceasingly.


    The golden bowl and the pair of golden chopsticks were ced underneath the soul summoning banner. This would make it easier to summon the evil spirit.


    When the time came, I held the soul summoning banner and stood by the golden bowl. My voice turned heavy, Today, you have received the gifts, and both of you are willing to unite in a ghostly marriage! ording to the birth chart of the groom, this is the best time to get married. Why dont you hurry toe out and get married?


    After speaking, I gave Li Mazi a nod. Li Mazi picked up the chopsticks and knocked on the bowl.


    A strange, evil wind blew from the golden bowl. The bells attached to the soul summoning banner began to jingle.


    Lei Long respectfully got on his knees in front of the two chairs while Li Mazi turned off the light in the room. I immediately saw a figure kneeling next to Lei Long. Although she was wearing a long robe, her feminine curves were discernible. She was kneeling very close to Lei Long, her shoulder almost touching his shoulder.


    Lei Long couldnt control his curiosity. He turned his head to take a nce at his bride. He shivered right after. I guessed it was due to the brides face.


    I also wanted to see her real face. Could she be so ugly she couldnt get married in her time? Otherwise, how could she be obsessed to the point of looking for a groom even after being dead for such a long time?


    Today is an auspicious day. Although you are a match, you two live in different worlds. Yet, youre bound to be together. Today, well hold a special ghost marriage for you two. From now on, unless your soul vanishes, your marriage willst forever. First bow, bow to earth and heaven! I raised my voice.


    Lei Long shakily bowed. The woman''s shadow also bowed.


    Second bow, bow to your parents, I called again.


    The two bowed again.


    The groom and the bride shall bow to each other.


    The two turned around and bowed, face to face.


    Lei Long didnt dare to look at her face. He closed his eyes as his face twisted. I took the chance to finally look at her real appearance. I gawked in shock right away.


    She didnt have a face! Her facial skin was covered with rotten, white fluffy hairs. I couldnt see even an inch of her bare skin.


    However, she had a pair of pure ck eyes; they released a frightening light. I suddenly felt they were a perfect match. They were a beautiful, moldy couple.


    Enter the wedding room! I raised my voice once more. It was a part of the ceremony, so they had to retreat to their chamber. I didnt have time to observe her face further.


    Lei Long anxiously got up, pulling the big, white ribbon flower on his chest. This white ribbon flower had long trailing ribbons on the other end, which the woman immediately grabbed. She looked shy but wide-awake as she walked behind Lei Long.


    A cold wind blew the bedroom door shut after the two had entered the chamber. Li Mazi looked cheery. I have seen dogs and chickens do it, but I have never seen ghost sex. Lets go. I want to see.


    I quickly stopped Li Mazi, who was about to peep through the bedrooms door slit. Since this was the most critical moment of our mission, I couldnt afford to offend the ghost just because Li Mazi wanted to peep.


    I took Li Mazi to the toilet, where I had installed a monitor camera.


    Li Mazi was ted. Oh, I didnt expect you to be this prepared. Peeping uprightly, are we?


    Can you be serious for a moment? I was so tense and nervous that my forehead was sweating. The mission tonight would be very taxing. If we were careless, Lei Long would die, the ghost would take out her anger on us, and Li Mazis moldy spots would never heal.


    I didnt dare to take my eyes off the monitor. I didnt even blink.

 Chapter 242: The Power of the Peach Soul Flower

    Chapter 242: The Power of the Peach Soul Flower


    After entering the bedroom, Lei Long ced the white ribbon flower on the table. Following the ancient customs, he sat at the table and poured two wine cups. W-Wife, we should drink the wedding wine. Shall we?


    After that, Lei Long suddenly remembered something. He fumbled and took out a willow twig from underneath the table. He dipped it in the wine to sprinkle it in the air.


    We couldnt see the ghost bride through the monitor, since cameras werent as excellent as human eyes, and their working principles were different. I was only able to see the cup being lifted by some invisible person who also drank the wine.


    Immediately after, a shadow became discernible in the monitor. I had tampered with the willow twig and grafted a piece of peach wood on to it. The willow twig helped the ghost drink the wine, and the peach wood piece made her visible.


    Lei Long certainly had a better view of the ghost thanks to this. He was definitely scared as the hand holding the cup was shaking. However, he still managed to control himself and drink the wine in one go.


    Lei Long behaved like a newlywed bride, sitting gingerly on the bed. Wife, itste. We should rest. The dark shadow was wiggling, seemingly due to nervousness. She carefully crawled onto the bed to lie down.


    Li Mazi rubbed his hands excitedly and said, Its going to start. Its really going to start! Holy crap!


    After lying next to a moldy woman, Lei Long would surely get traumatized. We wondered if his manhood would rise ever again once this strange experience was over.


    The woman raised her hand to pull Lei Longs arm, inviting him toy down; Lei Long had to go with the flow. The shadow then climbed on top of him, trying to remove his clothes.


    However, Lei Long seemed to have remembered something again. He hurried to stop her. Oh, right. Honey, Ive got a small gift for you. Then, he clumsily rolled off the bed and took out the Peach Soul Flower from underneath their bed. Wife, this is for you.


    The woman acted bashfully. I guessed she felt the gesture was sweet. Sheepishly, she raised her hand and received the Peach Soul Flower. She drew it close to observe it.


    Run! I shouted the order through the speaker. As soon as he heard my voice, Lei Long rushed out of the room without hesitating.


    The ghost was startled. She got off the bed and tried to chase after him.


    I practically flew out of the bathroom, immediately sticking the talisman on the door and closing it right after Lei Long had left the bedroom. The talisman was activated when the ghost bride touched the door, releasing a strong, -shaped light.


    The ghost bride was frightened. She howled since she was aware that she had been trapped. I felt a tinge of pity after hearing her cries.


    She didnt want to be confined in the room, and she charged at the door again and again. The talisman didnt work well this time. It still released a golden light, but it was much weaker. It failed to block the ghost and began to consume itself.


    The ghost bride lunged toward the living room, shouting and sobbing. Husband, where are you?


    She immediately turned around and flew toward us when she noticed our Yang energy in the bathroom. However, the Peach Soul Flower activated before she reached us. I could clearly see how the flower started to glow, exuding a supple aura that covered the ghost bride.


    She was frightened. The strong Yang energy from the Peach Soul Flower made her stumble and fall. She wanted to throw the flower away, but how could she do so after touching it? No matter how she struggled, the flower didnt let her go. The vigorous Yang energy created a tornado. It twirled fiercely, tearing and devouring her.


    The woman screamed in fright. She began to disappear bit by bit, starting from her legs, as her body was devoured by the Yang energy.


    While she was being swallowed, her appearance began to change. Her body was no longer moldy, and the spots on her face disappeared, revealing her soft and creamy skin. When the mold waspletely gone, only her naked upper body remained. We all gawked in shock when we saw her real face!


    The woman possessed features that could turn a country upside down. Her skin was like jade, her face like a flower blossom. There was a touch of seduction in her eyes, and her cherry lips were slightly parted. Although she was frowning in pain, her appearance inspired great pity.


    Unshed tears lingered in her eyes; her voice rose with a heartrending plea, unlike the former wolf-like howling. Husband, husband, save me!


    Li Mazi couldnt help but sigh. Do you think we went overboard?


    A soul was also a life. Even though she was hostile, it hurt us to smite her soul and make her vanish forever.<em></em> However, I knew she wouldntst long even if I tried to save her; her soul would perish eventually. It would be better to give her a quick death.


    Li Mazi said, It seems she has somest words to say. Let her speak.


    I nodded. She didnt pose a threat to us anymore since only a few wisps of her soul remained. I strode toward her and snatched away the flower.


    The fierce tornado vanished shortly after. The womany t on the ground; her figure was semi-transparent. As the soul wasnt a physical entity, she wouldnt appear in a dismembered state.


    The woman was about to perish, and she started to shed tears.


    My fate was so miserable. The woman gently sobbed. Why did you treat me like that? Why?


    Do you have something to say? I snorted and added, Say yourst words if you have any.


    Last words? The woman sneered and replied, You woke me up, and now you want my soul to vanish. I just wanted to fill my stomach. Why did you do that to me?


    I answered, You shouldnt have hurt people! This is retribution!


    Retribution? Hahaha!


    The woman said, Why would there be retributioning my way? I just wanted to save them. Hes going to die, and his time is nearing. I gave him a chance, but you didnt appreciate my gift


    What do you mean? I furrowed my eyebrows since I didnt understand.


    The woman just looked at me and said no more; her dejected face was filled with tears.


    Soon, she turned into smoke and dispersed. I exhaled in relief, but my heart was filled with doubts. <em>What did she mean?</em>


    Lei Long came out of the bedroom. He became anxious after seeing the empty living room.


    Grandmaster, what happened? Is she gone?


    I nodded, my eyes assessing Lei Long from head to toe. I didnt find anything unusual, so I found the wine left by the ghost bride and smeared the liquid over my eyes. Afterward, I continued to observe Lei Long.

 Chapter 243: The Time of Death Has Come

    Chapter 243: The Time of Death Has Come


    I looked at Lei Long and was shocked. He had a cloud of ck mist hovering above his head, which people often called death energy.


    Lei Long had death energy above his head, and mold was growing all over his body. Looking at him, I felt as if he were a walking corpse


    Anyway, misfortune wasing his way; he wouldnt live for long.


    Lei Long was startled by the way I looked at him. Whats up? Is something wrong?


    The will of the heavens could not be disclosed. If he had to die, I couldnt do anything. Otherwise, I would be going against the heavens.


    In the meantime, that female ghost had been willing to enter a ghost marriage with a stranger to save his life. To be honest, I felt quite ashamed.


    Perhaps we had misunderstood the woman. She had wanted to save Lei Long out of her own goodwill, but we were too blind to see it.


    I thought hard about why she would be willing to protect aplete strange at the cost of her life, but I couldnt figure it out.


    Li Mazi gently nudged me. What are you thinking about?


    I could only force a smile. Nothing.


    I picked up the golden bowl and observed it. The mistyyer on the surface of the bowl had disappeared, and the strange coldness was also gone. It had turned back to a normal item, I guessed.


    Look! Look here! Lei Long suddenly screamed in excitement. The moldy spots on my body are going away.


    I immediately turned to him. Sure enough, Lei Longs body was recovering at speed visible to the naked eye. The mold disappeared, revealing his normal skin.


    Li Mazi was also overjoyed. He pulled his pants down, asking me to check his butt. The fluffy hairs on his cheeks were also disappearing.


    Lei Long felt blissful. He immediately called his wife and bought a lot of food and liquor. He wanted to celebrate the asion.


    We stayed over until the break of dawn. After taking a shower, the duo looked no different from ordinary people. Lei Long told me that he was brimming with energy, and hed never felt better.


    I nned to leave early in the morning with the golden bowl and the chopsticks. However, someone knocked on Lei Longs door before we could leave.


    Lei Long was happy, as he thought it was his wifeing home. He hurried to open the door.


    However, standing at his door was an old couple, with hunched backs and farmer attire. The old man had a white cloth wrapped around his head, which made him look rather unsophisticated.


    The old man opened his mouth, his voice hoarse and rusty. Excuse me, do you have some antiques you want to sell?


    I noticed their bad acting at first nce. They were surely after the golden bowl.


    Before Lei Long could send them away, I walked forward and smiled at them. Oh, yes. Please,e in.


    I locked the door after inviting them into the house.


    Do you have any antique you want to sell? Were willing to pay a high price. The old man sounded anxious and restless, his voice full of worry.


    I smiled and replied, Ive never seen a collector such as yourself. Sir, do you need something else, perhaps?


    N-No, the old man stammered. Were here to buy antiques. We dont have any other purpose.


    His shifty eyes raked through the room. I knew he was searching for the golden bowl and chopsticks.


    I guessed they were the real owners of the set.


    I gave him a faint smile. Are you looking for this? I held the sparkling golden bowl out for them to see. They cheered up the moment they saw it.


    The old woman spoke with a rasping voice, Oh, thats a fine antique. How much for it? We want to buy it!


    All right, enough with this farce. Li Mazi was a real antique dealer who had been collecting antiques all over China. He could tell in a heartbeat that the old woman was aiming for something else. Youre the owner of this golden bowl, right? Whats your purpose? Tell us. Is there any secret behind this golden bowl?


    The old couple looked bewildered when Li Mazi questioned them. They eyed the bowl with clear embarrassment, but they didnt know what to say given the circumstances. However, the elderly couple still held hands, giving each other support and courage.


    I thought they werent bad people. I poured them a cup of tea to calm them down. Weve just subdued the golden bowl and the chopsticks. There should be no problemter.


    Lei Long also figured out that the old couple had ulterior motives. He was enraged and mmed the table. You really fooled me! You are already so old, yet you still want to harm people! You know what? My family was almost destroyed because of you! Hmph, wait for the courts summoning if you dont give me a good exnation today!


    The old couple was scared. Still, the husband mustered his courage and said, My wife has nothing to do with this. If you want to sue someone, sue me. Dont do anything to her!


    The old woman shed tears. Please, Im begging you. Dont sue us. We didnt know this would happen; spare us.


    Iforted them after seeing them so distraught. Sir, maam, you dont need to be scared. Just tell us the truth; were not going to trouble you. I just want to know the origin of this golden bowl. We will let you go after you tell us the story behind it.


    Lei Long wasnt pleased; he wanted to threaten them further. However, I shot him a nce, signaling him to stop.


    The old man sighed and said, Its all our fault. I will tell you everything.


    Then, he went ahead and told us about the origin of the golden bowl from start to finish. The golden bowl and the golden chopsticks had been passed down from generation to generation in their family.


    Their ancestor had specified that no matter how poor they became, the family should never sell this golden bowl. Moreover, they had to worship it the first and fifteenth days of every month.


    Their ancestors werent poor, so it wasnt a problem to worship the golden bowl. However, the current generationthe old mans generationdid not have much money. Since they didnt have children to take care of them, they struggle even to fill their stomachs.


    Coincidentally, an antique collector had heard about their family heirloom, so he approached them to buy it. The old couple didnt want to sell as it was a relic from their ancestors. However, they couldnt resist the collectors persuasion and were tempted by his money. Eventually, they gritted their teeth and sold the golden bowl and the golden chopsticks.


    Still, despite their lives getting objectively better, they werent happy.


    Previously, they hadnt had any real pressure and could live freely even though they were poor. However, they started having nightmares right after they sold the bowl and the chopsticks. They saw their ancestor pointing at their noses and scolding them.


    It was really difficult to lead such a life. The old man felt very remorseful and even thought about killing himself.


    The old couple knew things couldn''t go on like this. They discussed and decided to recover the golden bowl.


    They searched high and low to find the address of the antique collector and went to his ce. However, when they reached his house, they discovered that he had died horribly.


    They were greatly shocked as they felt that his death was probably rted to the golden bowl. Their ancestors had told them that something was living in that bowl.


    They eventually found us after more inquiries. They had also heard that Lei Long was being haunted.


    The old couple decided to take responsibility for their actions and finally came to our door.


    However, they didnt know that we had already destroyed the resentful spirit living in the bowl.

 Chapter 244: Princess Agai

    Chapter 244: Princess Agai


    I was pensive while listening to them. All their babbling was nonsense to me as it wasnt rted to the things that I wanted to know. Who had cast this golden bowl? Since when was it handed down in their family? Who was the first owner of this bowl?


    When I asked them these questions, they shook their heads. They didnt know anything about this, either. However, there was a book in their house that had been passed through generations along with the bowl and the chopsticks. Perhaps that book could help us out.


    Since they were illiterate, the old couple didnt know what was written in it. I was immediately interested in the book, so I asked them to show it to me. They agreed that the book could help somehow, so they handed it over.


    The book looked very ancient and was badly damaged. There were burn marks, and the water had blurred some of the words. However, we could still see the title, which was Ming Dynasty Unofficial History.


    The book was rough to the touch. I flipped the cover page and saw that there was an introduction. I skimmed through it and found that this Ming Dynasty Unofficial History mainly recorded the legendary stories from thete Yuan dynasty and the early Ming dynasty. Most of the stories were about real people and ces, which gave the book high credibility. Soon, I got to the story of the golden bowl!


    In thete Yuan dynasty, there was a Princess called Agai who enjoyed the favor of the Emperor.


    After Zhu Yuanzhangs attack on the Yuans capital city, his soldiers captured Princess Agai.


    When Zhu Yuanzhangthe future Emperor Hongwusaw her godlike beauty, he decided to make her his concubine.


    However, Princess Agai refused, preferring to die than ept living with the hateful man who had destroyed her country.


    Zhu Yuanzhang was enraged by her refusal, but he didnt want to kill her. He sent her to a remote area where she was forced to marry a local ruffian.


    Since she didnt want to live with that barbaric man, either, the ruffian locked her in a dark, damp cer and left her there to starve.


    As Princess Agai only had the Yuan dynasty in her heart, and she was ready to die for her country. As the ruffian didnt give her anything to eat, she could only silently sit in the darkness.


    Snakes and mice woulde and go in the dark cer. Princess Agai became weaker and weaker and eventually contracted a strange disease, moldy spots grew all over her body.


    Since Princess Agais condition was worsening, that ruffian couldnt wait anymore and decided to rape her while she was still beautiful. Having been humiliated to this degree, Princess Agai just wanted to die. However, the man kept pestering her, giving her no chance to kill herself.


    After a while, Princess Agai became pregnant. The local ruffian finally changed his attitude toward her. However, the food he fed her was still terrible.


    The beautiful Princess Again had be less than a shadow of her former self after all that she had endured. After nine months, Princess Agai gave birth to a chubby and cute son. The local ruffian also really liked this son of his and took care of him every day. However, he ignored Princess Agai and didnt prepare any food for her.


    Princess Agai had just given birth and didnt have the strength to cook. She got weaker and weaker as time passed by and was on the verge of death.


    When she watched her baby boy, she felt more and more insulted. She was from the royal blood of the Yuan dynasty, how had she sunk this low? To have ended with such a base and despicablemon ruffian...


    With a heart full of hatred, Princess Agai came up with a retaliating n.


    She dragged her exhausted body out to buy wine and rice. She cooked some dishes and told the ruffian that she wanted to celebrate the birth of the baby.


    When the ruffian saw the wine, he started drinking with Agai.


    As she was from Inner Mongolia, Princess Agai could hold her liquor very well. Eventually, she got the barbarian drunk. After that, she minced the newborn baby, cooked him, and ate him.


    When the ruffian woke up the next morning, the first thing he did was to check on his newborn son.


    However, he only found Princess Agai with a glowing face on the bed. The baby was nowhere to be seen. He only spotted some dabs of blood on the bed sheet.


    He bellowed, Wheres my son?!


    Princess Agai snorted and patted her stomach. Here.


    The ruffian was scared and shocked. He copsed on the ground, and it took him quite a long time to recover.


    Before he could get a hold of himself, the ax in Princess Agais hands had hacked his head into two halves, with his brain fluids sshing onto the ground.


    In that era, murdering ones husband was a very serious crime. Officials sent some soldiers to capture Princess Agai and prepared to put her to death. Princess Agai didnt want to bear more insults. She bit her tongue off and killed herself before the executioner could take her clothes off.


    Princess Agai had never forgotten the resentment of losing her country, and she considered her virginity her most prized treasure. Her story had affected many people, and eventually, it made its way to Zhu Yuanzhangs ears. Pitying the poor woman, he built a chastity arch for her.


    I felt the hair on my nape rise after I finished reading the story. An old proverb said that, although cruel, a tiger would not eat its cubs


    So, how could Princess Agai do that to her own son? I found it unbelievable.


    Still, I admired her for how hard shed tried to protect her chastity.


    Chastity was seen as something useless in modern society. As our living standards got better, we started to forget about the concept of chastity.


    Nowadays, some women got themselves a new boyfriend every day, and they would just need someone to buy them a handbag to sleep with them.


    Young girls would be pseudo-models for a little pocket money andter turn into toys for the rich, eventually getting discarded.


    Still, they would abuse honest men and ask them for a house and a car before they got married. Some women would even pretend to be virgins while they were not...


    Anyway, I eventually returned the golden bowl and the chopsticks to the old couple, and they couldn''t thank us enough for that. The story hade to an end.


    Unfortunately, several dayster, I heard that Lei Long hadmitted suicide by jumping off a building. I couldn''t discover why hed killed himself, but Princess Agais words resurfaced in my mind. Id offered to marry him to help him ovee his deadly fate...

 Chapter 245: Trip to Sanya

    Chapter 245: Trip to Sanya


    In the following period, I didnte across any dangerous case. Things remained like this until the end of July.


    As Li Mengs summer vacation had just begun, Li Mazi came up with an idea. Being idle here doesnt beat taking a vacation with me. What do you say?


    I called Yin Xinyue to ask for her opinion, but before I could even mention the trip, she urged me to pack up my things. We were heading to Sanya, in the Hainan province.


    I was surprised. Whats going on?


    Li Mazi and Ru Xue invited us to go with them. Its off-season right now, so I dont have many things to do. I agreed to their suggestion.


    <em>Is Li Maziing to terms with Chu Chus death? Will he finally walk out of the darkness and ept Ru Xue?</em>


    I felt happy for him, from the bottom of my heart.


    There wasnt much to pack, and I mainly took cash and credit cards before going to Li Mazis ce. Then, the five of us got into his car and headed toward Sanya.


    Thinking about the sky, the blue sea, and the girls in bikini, I began to hate the fact that I couldnt get to the beach right this instant.


    After two days on the road, we finally entered Hainans territory.


    However, my yearning for the beach was somewhat worn out after the tiresome trip. I just wanted to check into a nice hotel and rest for a whole day before we got back on the road to Sanya.


    I booked the hotel rooms through a mobile application, then used the GPS to find the hotel.


    Unfortunately, roughly two kilometers away from our destination, Li Mazi got distracted and bumped the rear of a car moving ahead of us.


    I immediately had a headache. This was going to be troublesome.


    I hurried to alight to check how bad things were.


    A man got off the Passat in front of us. He didnt even look at us or check his car; he simply started yelling, You bastards! Do you even know how to drive?! This road is so big, how did you even hit my car?! You did it on purpose, didnt you?!


    His shouting got my blood boiling right away.<em>Whats wrong with him? No one here wanted a car crash!</em>


    <em></em>I was already preparing to quarrel with him.


    However, before I could start, Li Mazi screamed in surprise, Qin Yu?! Is that really you?


    It seemed they knew each other.


    The man called Qin Yu was confused. He lifted his head and nced at Li Mazi. Eventually, he recognized him. Li Dog Balls? Its Li Dog Balls!


    I was speechless. I never thought that Li Mazi would have such a nickname.


    Li Maziughed heartily. Its really fate that Ive run into you on such a big road. I guess we wouldnt have met each other if I hadnt hit your car.


    Fate? Qin Yu seemed to remember something. Li Dog Balls, are you still in touch with San Bao?


    San Bao? Oh yeah, I got his WeChat. He did invite me to our ss reunion. Is something the matter?


    Qin Yus countenance changed after hearing the reply. The thrill of seeing his old friend disappeared. He angrily pointed at Li Mazi and said, So it wasnt just a coincidence! It turns out you and that bastard San Bao have joined hands. Youre not my friend anymore.


    He was fuming as he got back in his car. He stepped on the gas and drove away.


    We were all dumbstruck. We kept silent for a long time.


    Not knowing whether tough or cry, I asked Li Mazi, Does your old friend have some mental problems? Whats just happened?


    Li Mazi also wore a puzzled face as he turned to talk to me. I dont know. That dude used to be really down-to-earth


    Who is San Bao?


    Qin Yus best friend, Li Mazi answered. As to how good their friendship was... They were desk-mate since their school years, and even when going to the toilet, they would go together. After graduating, they joined hands and opened an advertisingpany. They were really close, and Ive always wondered if they were gay. However, it seems they arent on good terms anymore


    I was somewhat amused. All right, leave him be. Lets go to the hotel and take a nice rest.


    After we got back into the car, I asked Li Mazi more about Qin Yu.


    Li Mazi and Qin Yu were ssmates at the university. They shared the same dorm room with San Bao, and their rtionship was pretty good. They never met after graduation, and today should have been a day to celebrate as theyd bumped into each other again.


    However, Li Mazi didnt expect that Qin Yu would react this way.


    Li Mazi was a bit worked up. Did that dude look down on me? Did he snub me because Im driving a pickup?


    Iforted him, Its all right. You shouldnt overthink this.


    However, Li Mazi was resolute. No, Ive made up my mind. Im going to get a better car. All things considered, Im somewhere in the middle-ss bracket at this point. Its not suitable to drive this sort of vehicle.


    As the saying went, enemies walked on a narrow road. We met Qin Yu again after we had checked into our hotel!


    I bumped into the tired-looking Qin Yu when I went to the reception desk to ask for the WiFi password. He recognized me, and his rage red up instantly. You bastard! I knew it wasnt just a coincidence! You want my money, right? How bold of Li Dog Balls to scheme against me! I thought you were my brother, but you went and joined hands with San Bao to stab me in the back. I was blind to trust you!


    Hearing the loud cursing, Li Mazi walked out of the room. He looked at Qin Yu, feeling confused. Qin Yu, are you crazy? Its okay if you hurl abuse at me, but why are you messing with my friend?


    Qin Yu rolled his angry eyes at Li Mazi. Li Mazi, you tell San Bao that he shouldnt covet my money! From now on, I have nothing to do with him. I dont want to go anywhere near him! Then, he walked away angrily.


    Li Mazi wasnt the sort of man who would tolerate bullying, and he was infuriated. He didnt hesitate to catch up with him. The two got entangled and almost started a fight. The hotel security had to separate them.


    Qin Yu struggled free from the security personnels grip, throwing Li Mazi a fierce re as he walked out of the hotel.


    Li Mazi felt helpless. Whats wrong with him? Why did he be so hostile?


    Our mood was ruined, and I tried my best to calm down the fuming Li Mazi. Dont mind him. Hes not worthy of your time.


    We spent the next several days exploring and enjoying Sanya like crazy. Gradually, we forgot about Qin Yu.


    One day, we went to the beach to enjoy some surfboarding. As it wasnt enough to satisfy us, we decided to camp at the beach at night.


    Since everyone agreed, we went to buy two tents. Li Mazi, Li Meng, and I shared one, while the other was for Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue.


    After having a delicious dinner on the beach, wey down and enjoyed the cool sea breeze while gazing at the starry sky above our heads. Every bit of sadness had been blown away; I wished this moment couldst forever.


    However, that peaceful moment didntst long. All of a sudden, we heard someone quarrelling nearby. Moreover, one of the voices sounded very familiar. I immediately recognized the male voice, which belonged to Qin Yu.


    <em>Holy crap, how did we bump into Qin Yu again?</em> I cursed under my breath and decided to ignore him.


    We didnt feel like watching the stars anymore. I almost felt as if he was a ghost haunting us.


    Li Mazi didnt take this chance to mock his old friend but sighed instead. Back in our days at the university, Qin Yu was really brave and righteous. How could he turn into this noisy and whining man?


    Li Mazi told me an old story to prove that his friend had been a person of worth in the past. That year, Li Mazi tried to woo a girl from a criminal gang, which resulted in him being cornered by a group of thugs. Li Mazi was scared and called many people for help. However, only Qin Yu showed up. He hurried to the scene with two knives in his hands.


    Of course, both of them were eventually beaten ck and blue. After that event, Li Mazi and Qin Yu had be much closer.


    I was surprised. Even if society could change people, it shouldnt change someone so much. I had a vague feeling that there was more to this Qin Yu.


    However, I didnt think too much of it.


    I patted Li Mazis shoulder. People change. Perhaps Qin Yu has experienced things that changed him forever.


    Li Mazi sighed, but he was still unconvinced.


    Just by looking at him, I knew he wanted to go over there and talk to Qin Yu. I had to remind him we were on vacation, and it was best not to cause trouble.


    Li Mazi forced a smile. Dont worry! I know my ce.


    However, after we got into the tent, Li Mazi kept rolling on his spot, unable to sleep. I knew he was still thinking about Qin Yu.


    Half an hourter, Qin Yu was still quarrelling with some people outside. Li Mazi couldnt stand it anymore. He shot up and said, I have to take care of this!


    I hurried to pull him back. What do you want to do? Qin Yu now sees you as an enemy. He doesnt consider you his brother anymore.


    Li Mazi answered, The one whos arguing with him seems to be the campus belle from our generation! I have to know why hes fighting with all his old friends.


    Then, he pulled his arm away from my grasp and left the tent.


    I had no choice but to follow him as I could give him a hand in case a fight started...

 Chapter 246: The Jade Belt

    Chapter 246: The Jade Belt


    Qin Yu was quarrelling with a woman, and it was again rted to San Bao. He was using her ofmitting adultery with San Bao to trick him out of his money.


    Some people who were also spending the night on the beach had surrounded them and were watching the fun. I felt embarrassed as I forced myself into the crowd. <em>What the heck is Qin Yu doing over there?</em> Once I got there, I found a young woman wearing a bikini standing in front of Qin Yu. I had to admit that she was hot. Even though she was around thirty years old, her skin was as smooth as that of a girl in her twenties. She was very pleasing to the eye.


    Li Mazi rushed in and said, Ah Yan, what are you doing here?


    Ah Yan was angry and in tears, but she had no strength to snap back due to Qin Yus continuous scolding and yelling.


    She was excited to see Li Mazi. She ran to him, asking for help.


    What happened? asked Li Mazi.


    Ah Yan told him what was going on.


    After they graduated, she decided to marry Qin Yu as she loved his kindness and loyalty. She felt that he was a smart and responsible man.


    Throughout the years, Qin Yu continued treating Ah Yan well, burrowing deeper and deeper into her heart.


    However, things changed ever since Qin Yu got a jade belt. He would spend the whole day looking at it, without eating or sleeping. He didnt even want to leave the house; he was bewitched by it.


    Ah Yan had thought that it was just a passing phase, so she didnt really pay attention to it. However, one day, the jade belt disappeared, which left Qin Yu in an extremely odd state. He seemed to have be another man.


    Before that incident, Qin Yu had always been a generous, caring, and family-oriented man. However, he became overly suspicious ever since the jade belt disappeared. He thought that everyone around him wanted to harm him and that someone close to him had stolen the belt.


    That was why he quarrelled with San Bao, his best friend, and wanted to divorce Ah Yan.


    Ah Yan found it weird because their love was still strong. She thought it might be because Qin Yu was stressed at work. As such, she decided to take him on vacation to release his stress.


    However, they started quarrelling halfway to their destination. Qin Yu used her of having an affair with San Bao. He suspected that they wanted to steal all of his property.


    Ah Yan was so angry that she left right away; she decided to continue the trip on her own. Although it was going to be lonely, she didnt want to waste all the tickets and reservations shed made in Sanya.


    However, Qin Yu had been stalking her, and he caught up with her at some point and asked if she remembered Li Mazi and whether she was still in touch with him.


    Ah Yan didnt know why he suddenly asked those questions, but she told him the truth. She remembered Li Mazi, and she thought that he was a guy.


    Ah Yan was also considering Qin Yus current state, and she didnt want him to lose another friend. She hoped he could pull himself together.


    To her surprise, Qin Yu was furious after hearing her answer. They quarrelled again, and he used her of having an affair with San Bao and then with Li Mazi.


    Ah Yan felt wronged. After all, she hadnt even met Li Mazi! She was disappointed by how little Qin Yu trusted her.


    Li Mazi was so angry that even his body was shaking. He asked Ah Yan to wait as he strode toward Qin Yu. Without a bit of hesitation, he started to punch and kick the man.


    You bastard! Ah Yan was the prettiest girl in our school, and many men wanted to marry her. We entrusted her to you, and youre treating our goddess this way?! Ill give you a good lesson tonight!


    Qin Yu wasnt Li Mazis match, and he was beaten ck and blue.


    Ah Yan was worried about Qin Yu. She rushed forward to stop Li Mazi. Please stop! I think Qin Yu is just too stressed because of work. Stop fighting, and lets talk.


    Li Mazi fumed, This scumbag doesnt deserve you! You should leave him for good!


    Qin Yu jolted up from the ground, shouting curses at Li Mazi, but decided to run away when he saw that Li Mazi was about to hit him again.


    Li Mazi then returned tofort Ah Yan. Since they were old friends and they hadnt seen each other for quite a long time, they sat down and had a good talk.


    Ah Yan was beautiful and sexy, and she looked really attractive in her bikini. I was worried that Li Mazi would be tempted, so I stayed to keep an eye on them.


    Ru Xue was mad and wished to drag Li Mazi away, but I blinked at her, signaling her not to think too much of it.


    As expected, Ah Yans impression of Li Mazi had improved quite a lot. Since the woman was lonely and Li Mazi had saved her like a hero, she put him on a pedestal in her mind; she even invited him to tour around Sanya with her.


    I suspected that they might really get together if they toured together.


    Ru Xue was perhaps prettier than Ah Yan, but if we talked about friendship and charm, Ah Yan had the upper hand.


    I was tense while waiting for Li Mazis answer to the invitation. If this fellow dared to betray Ru Xue, I would have to give him a lesson.


    Li Mazi wore an apologetic face. Im sorry. Im already married.


    Then, he turned to look at Ru Xue. Honey,e and greet your sister.


    Ru Xues face immediately brightened. She ran forward and sweetly greeting Ah Yan, Good evening, sister. Im Li Mazis wife.


    Ah Yan was a friendly person. She smiled at Li Mazi and said, It must be the karmic reward from your ancestor. Your wife is young and beautiful; you should treat her well.


    Li Maziughed. Dont worry! Im not like Qin Yu, who didnt treasure the beauty in his house.


    After bidding their farewells, Li Mazi returned to the tent. Ru Xue looked at him with a sweet expression on her face,pletely infatuated.


    Li Mazi took out a cigarette. After looking at him, I was pretty sure he was thinking about Qin Yu.


    I helplessly looked at him. Do you really want to meddle with this matter?


    Li Mazi calmly looked back at me and nodded. I have a feeling that Qin Yus sudden change isnt normal. I think something is affecting him.


    You should think about it carefully. Were here to enjoy a vacation, and Qin Yu isnt going to appreciate your help. Itll be a thankless job.


    Li Mazi forced a smile. I have no choice, my fault for being too righteous. Anyway, I think the jade belt might be causing all this. It could be an otherworldly item!


    I helplessly shook my head. All right. If you want to help, I cant just stand by and watch.


    Li Mazi smiled and patted my shoulder. I knew you wouldnt let me do this alone. Our friendship isnt that shallow.


    Then, Li Mazi called San Bao. He wanted to know more about the situation.


    A hoarse voice came from the other end of the line. Li Mazi, how are you doing?


    Li Mazi said, Okay, I guess. I saw Qin Yu today. What happened between you guys?


    San Bao said in a frustrated tone, Qin Yus changed. Take my advice, dont get close to him. I used to treat him like a brother, but ording to him, it was only because I wanted his money. He also suspects that Ive stolen his jade belt. I was really blind, how could I not figure out what kind of person he was?


    Li Maziforted him, San Bao, do you really think that Qin Yu is that sort of despicable man?


    San Bao answered, In the past, I would have never thought of Qin Yu that way. But now, its different. He even told me that he never wants to see me again.


    Li Mazi smiled. San Bao, let me ask you something. If youre a true friend, shouldnt you lend a hand and be forgiving when your friend is in trouble?


    San Bao took a deep breath. Its easy for you to say as youre not involved! That guy is too much to bear! And, who told you that hes in trouble? Im telling you, hes changed!


    If I told you that Qin Yu did all those things because he had no control of his actions, would you forgive him?


    San Bao kept silent for a moment then asked nervously, What do you mean? Does he have some deadly disease, or did hemit some crime he doesnt want me to know about? Actually, it might be possible. It would exin why he changed so much.


    Li Maziughed. I think you have watched too many Korean dramas. How did you evene up with such thoughts? Anyway, itsplicated. You should make arrangements to join us in Hainan. We can speak in detail when you get here.


    San Bao agreed.


    After hanging up the phone, Li Mazi turned to me and asked, Do you have any idea?


    I havent even seen that jade belt yet, how could I have a n? Still, its easy to see if hes being pestered by an otherworldly item.


    Oh, how? Li Mazi asked.


    Can you find Qin Yu?


    Li Mazi nodded. He should also be spending the night on the beach. I think I can find him.


    Very well, I said. You should take a bottle of sea water and pour it over Qin Yus tent. Then, buy an eel and smear its blood on his tent as well. Tomorrow, I will be able to tell if that jade belt is an otherworldly item and whether it has affected him.


    Li Mazi nodded and left.

 Chapter 247: Li Meng Went Missing

    Chapter 247: Li Meng Went Missing


    Li Mazi returned shortly after; he told me hed arranged everything.


    I said with a smile, Thats good. We should rest then. Everything will be clear at dawn.


    Li Mazi was really worried about Qin Yu. He couldnt sleep all night, and he frequently went to check his tent.


    It was around 4 AM, and some people had already started getting up to admire the sunrise. Li Mazi was also eager to enter into action. Hey, wake up. Isnt it time to see if an otherworldly item is pestering Qin Yu?


    I checked the time, and it was right about time. I stretched my sore back and headed toward the sandy beach.


    The moment we reached Qin Yus tent, we noticed a shadow moving within it. I didnt know what Qin Yu was doing, but I guessed he also had a sleepless night.


    However, after I moved closer, I discovered that things didnt look good.


    Sea water was salty, so it should have left some salt crystals on the tent after seeping into the fabric and evaporating.


    However, there were no salt crystals on Qin Yus tent, and only a faint watermark remained.


    The eel blood had also disappeared, which was even stranger.


    Li Mazi was nervous. Did you find anything?


    I nodded as I contemted. Im now sure that your friend has been pestered by some evil thing.


    Li Mazi exhaled in relief. See? I told you so. There was no way my friend would change so much for no reason! Okay, wait here. Im going to call him. We need to gain his trust first if we want to help him.


    I gave him a nod.


    Li Mazi approached Qin Yus tent. However, he screamed in fright right after peeking inside. He hurried back with a pale face.


    Somethings wrong. Theres definitely something strange going on.


    What is it? I began to worry as I looked at Li Mazi. Did something happen to Qin Yu?


    Thats not it, Li Mazi said. But Theres no one inside the tent.


    Thats impossible. I took a deep breath. I clearly saw a shadow moving around earlier...


    Li Mazi wore a reluctant face. Yes, I saw it too. But theres no one there.


    I took another look, and the shadow was now gone.


    Our eyes had never left the tent, so it would have been impossible for Qin Yu to slip out without us noticing.


    I concluded that the shadow we had just seen was a ghost!


    Where do you think Qin Yu could have gone to? Li Mazi sounded cautious.


    After hesitating for a moment, I lowered my voice to reply, Lets check around and see if we can find him.


    Then, Li Mazi and I walked around the sandy beach.


    I had a feeling that Qin Yu would go to a deserted ce, so we walked out of the camping area as we searched.


    It was early morning. The sea wind was strong, and waves surged one after another. It was freezing cold, and there was a bright, white slit on the horizon where the sky met the sea.


    However, the sun seemed to be stalling its rise, radiating a blood-red halo all over the sea. The seawater was dyed in red at the moment, producing an eerie sight.


    Anyway, it didnt take me long to spot a suspicious shadow!


    That figure was sitting on the shore, watching the sea with his back to us.


    Strong waves came and crashed on the beach, submerging the mans body. However, the strong force of the water was unable to shake him. He sat there like a statue fixed to the ground.


    There was a bottle of Maotai wine in his hand. He would take a good gulp from the bottle every time the waves subsided. Then, he would scream and cry.


    His heartbreaking cries lingered in the air, chilling peoples hearts


    I took a deep breath and called Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi saw Qin Yu soaking himself in the sea and instantly felt pity for him. Is he out of his mind? Its damn cold right now... hes going to end up with rheumatism or another joint disease if we dont get him out of there soon.


    Then, he rushed forward to pull him out of the sea.


    I felt helpless. Even after being mistreated, Li Mazi was worried about his friend getting rheumatism. He was a true brother.


    Inparison, Qin Yu was really a petty person.


    I was worried that Li Mazi would be drawn into the sea by the strong waves as this ce was not considered safe. I stormed forward to help him pull Qin Yu back to the beach.


    However, Qin Yu didnt want to leave. He kept chilling in the water while drinking and crying.


    Li Mazi was enraged; he didnt hesitate to p him. You bastard, are you even a man?! Suck it up and dont bring shame upon the Qin Yu I knew! We can help if you have any difficulties.


    Qin Yu suddenly turned his head around, gazing at us with a strange look. You want to help me? Then kill me.


    Damn! My heart sank. Qin Yu wasnt himself at the moment. He was possessed!


    I hurried to pull Li Mazi aside.


    Li Mazi was confused. Whats wrong?


    Qin Yu seems to be possessed. We cant provoke him.


    Li Mazi didnt listen and was enraged when he heard that Qin Yu was possessed.


    He seemed to have lost his mind as he roared, I know youre not Qin Yu! Who are you? Why do you want to hurt my buddy? Come out and fight me if you have the balls! Why are you hiding inside someone elses body?!


    Qin Yu punched him as soon as Li Mazi finished his sentence, knocking him away.


    I was shocked and directly took out a Ksitigarbha Talisman from my pocket. The ghost seemed to have recognized the item as it left immediately after. Qin Yus body copsed to the ground.


    I ignored Qin Yu and hurried to check on Li Mazi. That punch was pretty strong, and Li Mazis face was all swollen


    However, Li Mazi was still worried about Qin Yu. Is he okay? His body is submerged in water!


    You barely survived. Yet, youre still worried about others?


    Li Mazi forced a smile. Im not going to die that easily.


    Qin Yu had already made his way out of the water when we went to save him. It seemed he had no idea as to what was happening. He kept looking at the freezing seawater with a nk face.


    He returned to his sense when he saw us, beginning to spew curses. Li Mazi, were you hoping to drown me? You would have taken my wealth and my wife after that, right? You just wait! I swear that Im not a man if I dont retaliate!


    Then, he bolted away.


    Hes beyond saving Li Mazi sighed.


    We didnt have the mood to go sightseeing after the incident and directly took Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue back to the hotel.


    Li Mazi had an appointment with San Bao. We were supposed to meet at the hotel around 3 PM.


    We had a simple lunch at the hotel restaurant, then we went back to our rooms for a short nap.


    It was still 1 PM, so there was some time left before the appointment.


    After waking up from my nap, I felt that something was off. Things didnt feel right.


    My head felt somewhat heavy, and my sight was blurred. My neck was also stiff, which was a first for me. <em>Does it have something to do with the mattress? Still, its strange...</em>


    While I was deep in thought, Li Mazi called out, Wheres my son? Wheres Li Meng?


    I turned to check the bed.


    Our room had two beds. I had imed one, while Li Mazi shared the other with his son. But now, only Li Mazi was there. His son was nowhere to be seen.


    Li Meng, where are you? Come here! Li Mazi screamed.


    However, no one answered.


    Wait a minute. I suddenly started connecting the dots.


    The door and the windows were closed, while the air vents were blocked. Moreover, our room was filled with a strange smell.


    Coupled with my stiff neck and Li Mengs disappearance I was sure that someone had used sleeping gas on us!


    I checked the clock, and it was 5 PM. Our short nap hadsted for a whole four hours!


    I rushed out of the room, afraid that Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue had also been drugged. I found them asleep when I reached their room, so I hurried to wake them up.


    Yin Xinyue was still drowsy as she asked me, Whats wrong? Why are you so worked up?


    Hurry,e to my room.


    I nced at their window; it was open, and the air vent was working as usual. Their room didnt have any signs of intrusion. I exhaled in relief.


    When the two women saw the stern expression on my face, they knew something bad had happened.


    Li Mazi looked around the room but couldnt find Li Meng. The moment he saw Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue, he immediately asked if they had seen him.


    The two women were astonished. Wasnt Li Meng with you guys?


    Li Mazi was getting more and more worried. Did a thief barge into our room?


    I hurried to calm him down. The corridor should be equipped with cameras. We should go and ask them to check the surveince videos.

 Chapter 248: End of a Friendship

    Chapter 248: End of a Friendship


    We contacted the hotel manager to check the surveince footage, and we gawked in shock when we saw the video recording.


    A man wearing a cap sneaked into the hotel and went to our room. He then used a small item to pick the door lock.


    This hotel used a card key system to secure the rooms. The man seemed to have used some electronic device to bypass the sensor, then he used a normal card to unlock the door.


    Once the door was slightly ajar, he discreetly blew some white powder into the room. He waited for a while then went inside. A momentter, he came out with Li Meng on his back.


    He then went to Yin Xinyues room and tried to pick their lock.


    However, two security guys suddenly showed up. The man was scared and hurried to leave. However, the two stupid security guys didnt even find him suspicious.


    I was enraged as the stealthy man turned out to be Qin Yu.


    We cant bear any more of this! Lets call the police. We have to report this.


    Li Mazi implored, No, dont call the police. Qin Yu has been possessed. He would not do this willingly!


    Are you nuts? My veins popped out as my anger rose. He kidnapped your son. How can you still defend him?


    Li Mazi took a deep breath and said with a serious face, You have to know that someone stole my tuition when I was still studying at the university. I came from a poor family, and I couldnt bring myself to tell my parents that my money had been stolen.


    I wanted to do some part-time work to earn the school fee, but the thief actually returned my money before I could find a job. However, I knew that a thief wouldnt do that. It was Qin Yu who had secretly ced the money under my pillow. I knew it because the original stack only had fifty-renminbi notes, while the one Qin Yu gave me had one-hundred-renminbi notes.


    Since he had used his own money, he didnt have enough for his expenses. We had to survive on instant noodles for fifteen days. Later on, I felt like puking every time I saw instant noodles. Qin Yu even got a stomach ache because of it.


    After that, I vowed to help Qin Yu if he was in trouble one day!


    As he retold the touching story, his eyes started to tear up.


    I helplessly shook my head as I knew I couldnt talk him out of this. I finally nodded and said, All right, I will do as you say.


    When we returned to our room, Li Mazi called Qin Yu. However, the man didnt pick up the call.


    Li Mazi started to get anxious.


    I suddenly remembered that we had an appointment with San Bao at 3 PM. Why hadnt he called us yet? Was he also attacked?


    I immediately reminded Li Mazi about it, who patted his forehead and said, How could I forget him? Then, he called San Bao.


    However, San Baos phone was off.


    While we were struggling to contact him, the telephone in our room started ringing.


    I picked up the handset. It was from the hotels front desk. Is Mister Li Mazi there? Someone wants to see you.


    Im here, Li Mazi snatched the phone and continued, Let him to my room.


    Soon after, we were shocked to see San Baos strange appearance. His face was bruised and swollen like a pigs head.


    Damn. Li Mazi jumped up and said, San Bao, did you gain weight?


    Weight my ass! Although the bespectacled San Bao looked very educated, he showed the blunt manners of a rough man as soon as he opened his mouth. I got beaten up. My face is all swollen.


    Li Mazi was amused. Did you tease someones wife or sister? You sure are bold, why do you always want to y around with young girls? Would you be happy if your wife was groped?


    San Bao shot a nce at Li Mazi. How do you keep that mouth of yours running all the time? Someone is going to seal it one day!


    Yin Xinyue hurried to give San Bao an ice cube to ease the swelling on his face.


    What happened to you? asked Li Mazi.


    What else could have happened? Of course, it was that despicable Qin Yu! That bastard is really heartless! San Bao said, deeply hurt.


    Qin Yu stopped me before I could enter the hotel. He asked me if I hade here to join hands with you and plot against him. He punched me right after that. If I wasnt mindful about his mental disease, he would have been the one with the bruised and swollen face!


    Why didn''t you call me?


    My phone broke. That bastard also took my money. Sigh, why did I befriend a man like him? I was bullied by him even though Ive always treated him as a dear friend, said San Bao.


    Li Mazi hurried tofort San Bao. When thetter calmed down, he said with a stern tone, I should tell you the truth. Actually, Qin Yu is possessed by some evil spirit. Thats why hes changed so much. Havent you also noticed how strange his behavior is?


    After listening to Li Mazis words, San Bao was surprised. I knew it! Im sure its that jade belt... I told him to throw it away, but he didnt listen. Now, were tangled in this mess, sigh. What do we do? Li Mazi, do you know any expert whos specialized in dealing with this sort of thing? No matter the price, we have to get rid of whatever is messing with Qin Yu.


    Li Mazi smiled. We dont need to find one. Theres one right here. He pointed at me.


    San Baos perplexed eyes scanned me from head to toe. This guy? But he looks so young


    Dont look down on him, Li Mazi smiled and said, Little Brother Zhang, theres no need to be humble about it. Tell us what to do.


    I said, All right, enough with the ttery. This matter is a bit difficult to solve, but I will try my best. I want to see that jade belt first. I may be able to help Qin Yu if I can find the secret behind it.


    San Bao patted his thigh. That jade belt has been missing for a while now. How can we find it? Qin Yu is really giving me a headache.


    While we were discussing, Li Mazis phone rang. He took it out of his pocket and asked, Hey San Bao, do you know this number?


    San Bao checked the number and recognized it right away. Yes, I do. Thats the man who sold the jade belt to Qin Yu. He only trusts that fellow ever since he bought the belt. But why is that guy calling you?


    I was really sensitive to these matters due to my profession. I asked Li Mazi to record the call, as I felt it could be important.


    Li Mazi nodded. He pressed the record button before answering the call.


    Hello? Whos this? asked Li Mazi.


    Is San Bao there? The other man sounded cold as he spoke. Give him the phone.


    Li Mazi shot a doubtful nce at San Bao and passed over the phone.


    San Baos rude manners disappeared as he took the phone. He answered with a serious tone, just like a sessful manager would. Haha, Boss Ma, its been a while! Its quite a surprise that you were able to contact me since my phones broken.


    Enough with your nonsense, the cold voice said. Im calling you to make a deal. Are you interested in a business proposal?


    San Bao replied with a mocking tone, Boss Ma, I have to warn you first. Im not interested if its not a fair deal.


    Dont worry, its a pretty fair deal, Boss Ma said. I want all the Dahe Group shares youre holding.


    Oh, the Dahe Group shares? Ive been wanting to get rid of those shares anyway. Name a price. If its good, I will give you all my shares. San Bao tried his best to sound casual.


    A price? Tell me, are two lives enough?


    I took a deep breath. <em>Two lives? What does he mean?</em>


    San Bao couldnt keep his calm anymore. Boss Ma, what are you talking about?


    Oh, nothing. The man sneered. You know how much Qin Yu trusts me, right? Hes given me all of his shares. Now you tell me, would he kill that Li Meng boy and then himself if I asked him to? Honestly, I would really like to test it out.


    You son of a bitch! San Bao was infuriated. Old Ma, if you dare toy a finger on them, I will kill you! Do you understand?


    Oh, sure I do. Boss Maughed and replied, But being buried together with these two would not be such a loss. Haha, think about it, boy! Call me when you make up your mind. Then, he hung up the call.


    Li Mazi and San Bao were shaking with anger.


    Li Mazi roared, Is Qin Yu stupid or what? That goddamn Ma is clearly deceiving him. Why does he trusts him so much? Yet, he treats those who care for him as his enemies! Im so mad right now. Even if I turn into a ghost, I wont let him off!


    San Bao also stomped his feet in rage.


    I was the man with the soundest mind at the moment. All right, stop talking nonsense. We should first focus on finding Qin Yu and the jade belt. San Bao, call Boss Ma and tell him that you agree to his conditions. We shouldnt be provoking him right now. He may order Qin Yu to do crazier things.


    Although San Bao wasnt really willing, he had no choice but to make the call.


    Boss Ma told him that they would sign the contract to transfer the shares tonight. He would callter to tell us where and when.


    I said, Everybody, get ready. Itll be a tough battle tonight. If we want to deal with the jade belt, we need to gain Qin Yus trust.


    Li Mazi felt helpless. The problem is that Qin Yu doesnt trust us at all.


    I smiled and replied, I have a n.


    Time ticked by, and the three of us carefully discussed the rescue n in the hotel room.

 Chapter 249: Soul Subduing Spell

    Chapter 249: Soul Subduing Spell


    After discussing the n, I asked Li Mazi to tell me about his rtionship with Qin Yu.


    The friendship of those three was really strong, after all.


    They had worked together, fought together, and even chased after girls together.


    Qin Yus family was well off; they enjoyed a much better lifestyle than Li Mazis and San Baos. During their university studies, Qin Yus parents had asked him to stop being friends with Li Mazi and San Bao at one point. They thought that those two were not good enough for their son. However, Qin Yu did not agree. There was one time he even threatened his parents to leave the house if they kept pushing him.


    From this story, I could tell how loyal Qin Yu was to his friends.


    Since Boss Ma had now total control over Qin Yu and could make him do anything, San Bao and Li Mazi were rightfully angered.


    Time flew by, and we went to our appointment after dinner.


    Boss Ma had told us to go to a high-end restaurant. I guessed he was worried that we would attack him, so he chose a ce with a lot of people.


    After we arrived at the restaurant, Boss Ma took about an hour to finally show up.


    The man was stout, and his face was all smiles; he looked like a harmless human being. He didnt show any hostility, and he greeted us warmly.


    There was also Qin Yu with him, who was singing apletely different tune. His eyes were full of hatred as he threw a wicked nce at Li Mazi and San Bao. He ignored us after that quick nce.


    Qin Yu, you gave all of your shares to Boss Ma? What did he offer you in exchange? San Bao acted just like I asked him to earlier. We had to involve Qin Yu in our conversation.


    Qin Yu sneered. San Bao, you have always coveted my shares, havent you? You even had an affair with my wife to trick me to get my shares! Hmph, I transferred all of my shares to Boss Ma for free. Why dont you try to trick me now?


    San Bao took a deep breath and red at Boss Ma. Boss Ma, you did a good job with your silver tongue.


    Boss Ma spoke with a sense of righteousness, San Bao, what do you mean? Mister Qin just happened to have some problems recently, so I gave him a helping hand by managing his shares. But then, as I was going over thepanys documents in the beginning, I noticed that you had taken a lot of money from thepany.


    "Nonsense! San Bao bellowed.


    Youre the one talking nonsense! Qin Yu pped the table as he jolted up. San Bao, I know that youve been fiddling with ourpanys documents. I was suspicious of you for quite a long time, I just didnt tell you. However, you were still unsatisfied and eventually resorted to such tricks!


    San Bao sighed. Youre hopeless.


    Qin Yu, do you trust Boss Ma? Li Mazi asked.


    Qin Yu cast Li Mazi a sidelong nce. More than I trust you guys. What did San Bao promise you to win you over?


    Nothing, Li Mazi scoffed and said, Im here to help you.


    While Li Mazi and San Bao were distracting Qin Yu, I discreetly implemented my n.


    I held a fish-skinning knife in my hand while making several hand seals to activate the Soul Subduing Spell. If used with the matching incantation, the spell would temporarily suppress the evil spirit in Qin Yus body.


    We needed to know where Li Meng was being held and what Qin Yu knew. That was how we could put an end to this matter.


    The quarrel between San Bao and Qin Yu was just to buy some time.


    However, Boss Ma caught on fast. He was really good at talking, and he quickly cut off Li Mazi and San Bao. He said that San Bao had to sign the contract immediately, since he needed to attend a meeting right after.


    Li Mazi nudged me and said, Should we do it now? Boss Ma wants to sign the contract now.


    I couldnt rush it, because the more I rushed, the less effective the Soul Subduing Spell would be. I could only ignore Li Mazis urging.


    Hmph! Right when I was about to seed, Boss Ma pped the table and shot up. Qin Yu, I feel so sorry for you! These people not only want your properties but also your life!


    Qin Yu was startled. He looked at him and asked, Boss Ma, how can you tell?


    See what hes doing. Boss Ma pointed at me and said, Hes hiding a knife in his hand. He can kill you at any time.


    <em>Damn.</em> My heart sank.


    Qin Yu rushed toward me with resentful eyes. You do have guts! You want to kill me, huh? Come here, kill me if you have the balls!


    I knew I couldnt continue since Qin Yu was about to snatch my dagger. I jumped up and kicked him to the ground. I then sat on top of him and pressed the handle of the dagger on his forehead.


    Qin Yu was terrified. He raised his hands, trying to grab my upper body.


    I snorted and kept reciting the spell while making hand seals. I refused to believe that I couldnt suppress the evil spirit in Qin Yus body!


    You brought it upon yourselves. Boss Ma had an evil smile on his face. He took out his phone and called a number. Hey, do it. The negotiation didnt go well.


    Wait a minute! Li Mazi freaked out. If you touch my sons hair, Ill bury your whole family with you!


    Haha! Dont threaten me. Im alone anyway, so I have nothing to fear. You have two choices now. Sign the contract, or everybody dies.


    Boss Ma still wore a smirk in such a critical moment. It seemed that he was certain about the oue.


    As the evil spirit in Qin Yus body was about to be suppressed, Boss Ma began his countdown.


    I had no idea how to proceed. <em>Were talking about Li Mengs life, what should we do?</em>


    Ill sign it. Im signing now. San Bao had to yield.


    I was helpless when San Bao finally gave in. The evil spirit in Qin Yus body fought back and threw me to the side. It was such a strong blow that I felt my hand go numb. I couldnt even hold the dagger.


    Qin Yu pointed at us, cursing loudly.


    I could only smile and feel sorry for Li Mazi and San Bao. If I were them, I would have died of anger already.


    Qin Yu caused our n to fail, helping the one who was trying to harm him.


    I could only watch as Qin Yu kept cursing. He had cursed us all our generations, from our ancestors to our unborn children


    Boss Ma took the signed contract and leftughing.


    Qin Yu hurried to follow him, but Boss Ma kicked him away. You dont need to follow me. Youre useless to me now!


    His kick was really powerful. Qin Yu was sent to the ground, and he couldnt move for quite a long time. He could only clutch his stomach with a pained face.


    Li Mazi immediately ran toward him, pulling Qin Yu in his embrace. Qin Yu, are you okay?


    Qin Yu opened his eyes, ring at Li Mazi. I dont need your help. You and Boss Ma really got me good. Haha, I didnt expect that Boss Ma would also be your partner!


    Qin Yu screamed, then he cked out as though he couldnt bear the shock. His body crouched on the ground.


    Dammit! San Bao was so enraged he couldnt bear it anymore. This guy haspletely lost his mind! What is wrong with him? Why did he trust that Ma guy so much?


    Li Mazi said reluctantly, All right, dont hold a grudge against him. Hes not our Qin Yu right now.


    San Bao said, I was just venting my anger. Im still going to help him.


    They took Qin Yu to the car as they spoke.


    You guys should leave first, Li Mazi said. Im going to tail Boss Ma.


    I knew Li Mazi would only calm down after knowing his son was safe.


    However, it would be dangerous to let him go alone as Boss Ma wasnt a simple fellow.


    I asked San Bao to take Qin Yu to the hotel, while Li Mazi and I would track Boss Ma down.


    I had left a wisp of aura on Boss Mas body during our encounter, so I could follow it to find his location!

 Chapter 250: A Tooth for a Tooth

    Chapter 250: A Tooth for a Tooth


    Eventually, we found where Boss Mas had gone to. It was a watermelon orchard. I saw him secretly enter a shed inside the orchard, but he didnt stay there for long.


    After he left, Li Mazi and I got in to check.


    Li Meng was inside the shed. Both his hands and feet had been tied, and he was unconscious.


    Li Mazis heart twitched after seeing Li Mengs condition. He stormed forward and gently held his son, trying to wake him up. Li Meng woke up rtively fast, but he was still confused. He recognized his father, but he fell unconscious again.


    I frowned and asked Li Mazi to carry Li Meng on his back. We needed to get back soon.


    Qin Yu was awake when we got back. San Bao had kept him in a hotel room.


    San Bao, hows Qin Yu? I asked.


    San Bao felt helpless. He doesnt want to eat, drink, or sleep. Hes desperate, and killing himself is the only thing on his mind. He tried tomit suicide earlier, but Ive managed to stop him in time. If not for me, he would have died already


    I peeked at Qin Yu through the door slit. His face was pale, and his body was slumped in a corner like a lump of mud. He sat still, crying.


    Everyone betrayed me! Does friendship still exist in this world?! Qin Yumented.


    San Bao asked me, Do you know how to deal with this?


    I pondered for a while, but I didnt have any good solutions to offer. We could only use the a tooth for a tooth approach.


    Everybody, lets have some rest, I said. I need to think about this matter carefully.


    I entered the room without giving them a chance to protest. Then, I closed my eyes and went to sleep.


    It was early morning when Li Mazi shook me awake.


    Li Mazi sounded worried as he said, Something bad has happened. You should check if any of your belongings is missing.


    I smiled. Did your son grab your money and run off?


    Li Mazi was startled. How do you know that?


    I just happen to have a gift for foretelling. By the way, Li Meng also stole my fish-skinning knife and my Sirius Whip.


    Li Mazis eyes widened after hearing my reply. Did you see my son stealing your things? Why didn''t you stop him?


    Because there was no need to, I smiled and said. Dont panic. Its all part of my n.


    Li Mazi was even more shocked. Tell me, whats your n? Will my son be in danger?


    Dont worry, Iforted him. Your son and the various items wille back in a few days. All we need to do is wait.


    Li Mazi looked at me in puzzlement. I just smiled at him. Dont overthink it. Im going to sleep some more.


    I went back to bed after saying that much. Li Mazi stood by the door and stared nkly for quite a long time. Eventually, he had no choice but to leave.


    Night fell once again. There was still no news about Li Meng, and Li Mazi was very worried. He didnt eat or drink, and he looked much older after just one night.


    I had no idea how to reassure him. Although I felt bad seeing him in such a state, I had to let him suffer for a while. It was all for the sake of my n.


    At around 9 PM, I allowed Qin Yu to leave.


    Qin Yu hated us to the bone, and he wished he could kill us all.


    I didnt go out in the following days and stayed at the hotel. Even after three days, there was no news, which almost made me doubt my n.


    However, something happened on the fourth day.


    After receiving a mysterious call, I said to Li Mazi and San Bao, Guys, follow me.


    Li Mazi was already at his limit, and he couldnt wait to rush out of the hotel and look for his son.


    We went directly to the citys financial district and stopped by a nice vi.


    I knocked, and the door was quickly opened. The owner of the house was obviously Boss Ma.


    He was startled by our sudden appearance. Why are you here?


    I smiled and said, Oh, nothing. I just wanted to see how much time you had left.


    What do you mean? Boss Ma was enraged as he looked at me.


    Just wait and see. Youll understand soon. I didnt say anything else and directly entered Boss Mas vi.


    It was indeed a rich mans house,vishly decorated, just like a majestic pce. The ce made me feel somewhat inferior


    However, I quickly cast aside that thought. There was no need to be amazed as this luxurious vi wasnt a property that Boss Ma had earned with hard work. He had probably bought it with his shady funds. He might be rich now, but his life would be greatly affected once his luck ran out.


    What do you want? Boss Ma gritted his teeth as he gazed at me. Get the out of here, or Ill call the police!


    I just want to see how you react when your friends betray you. I want you to feel what Qin Yu has been feeling for the past days.


    Qin Yu had been deluded into thinking that everyone had betrayed him. He had lost all of his friends and family members. He was so desperate that he wanted to kill himself. This sort of pain wasnt something a human being could shoulder for a long time.


    Boss Ma frowned. What do you mean?


    Come here. I smiled and snapped my fingers. Shortly after, two people showed up by the door. They were Li Meng and Ah Yan.


    Boss Ma was shocked by their unexpected visit. Little Meng, Ah Yan, you should leave. Theres something I have to take care of.


    Shut up! Ah Yan and Li Meng shouted at him in unison.


    Boss Ma panicked and dropped his jaw in shock. What happened to you? Arent we friends?


    Save your breath. I smiled. Do you think theyll do anything you want just because youve used some petty tricks to win them over? It was all an act to earn your trust. Everything was part of my n.


    What? Boss Ma was so angry that he almost vomited blood. Are you driving a wedge between us?


    Of course not, I said with a smile. They have never trusted you. Driving a wedge is not possible when theres no friendship to speak of.


    Ah Yan said with a smile, Boss Ma, you left my husband in such a pathetic state. I couldnt just ept it and move on, could I? Thats why Ive prepared a small gift for you.


    Then, she threw some papers in his direction.


    Boss Ma nced at the papers and carefully picked them up. His blood surged, and his body shivered when he read the contents. Y-You slut, where did you transfer my money?!


    Thirty million to the poverty-stricken areas, twenty million to the One Foundation Group, and another twenty million to an AIDS treatment center Ah Yan recited a list of donations she had made on his behalf. Now you have close to three million left in your bnce.


    What?! Boss Ma thundered. Ah Yan, I trusted youpletely... I even let you handle my ounts


    I had no choice. You went after my family, Ah Yan said angrily.


    Boss Ma closed his eyes in despair. He couldnt help but vomit blood.


    You You betrayed me


    Ah Yan shrugged. Boss Ma, why not test the waters? Lets see how many friends you have now.


    Then, she went outside to fetch a suitcase. This is yourst three million. Lets see how many friends you can earn with this.


    Oh, right. I forgot to tell you something. Boss Ma, I yed cards with your best friend Ah Lai on your behalf, and I lost three million and one hundred thousand renminbi. I think you better call him now. I want you to see your friends true colors.


    Boss Ma screamed and roared, Bunch of lunatics! Im warning you, I will call the police!


    Fine. Ah Yan smiled. Recently, the criminal police have been very strict about drugs. I refused to believe that there are none in this vi.


    All right, its time for me to tell you the rules of the game. I felt satisfied as I sat on the sofa. Now you have three million in your hands, and you owe Ah Lai three million and one hundred thousand renminbi. We will let this go if you can borrow one hundred thousand from your friend. If you cant, well watch as Ah Lai chops you into pieces!


    Haha. Boss Maughed haughtily and said, Youre looking down on me! Its just one hundred thousand renminbi. With my reputation, I, Boss Ma, can easily borrow that money. Then, he called Ah Lai so that he could collect the debt.


    Ah Lai smiled and agreed as soon as he heard that he would receive his payment. He arrived ten minutester.


    Boss Ma, we havent had fun together in ages. I guess youre pretty busy these days. Ah Lai arrived with a smiling face, warmly greeting Boss Ma.


    Boss Ma faintly smiled. Yes, Ive been busy.


    Boss Ma has a lot of things to manage, so its normal that youre this busy. Oh right, Ive got a new product here. Ill be giving you some as a gesture of goodwill.


    Really? Boss Ma smiled. Thank you.


    No need to thank me, were friends after all. Ah Lai handed Boss Ma a small, sealed stic bag filled with white powder.


    Boss. Li Mazi said purposely as he came out of the bathroom, Ourpany has to dere bankruptcy, and we only have three million renminbi left. We cant fork out the remaining one hundred thousand to pay for the gambling debt.


    Boss Ma red at Li Mazi. I wille up with a solution!


    Half of Ah Lais enthusiasm suddenly disappeared. He looked at Boss Ma with clear worry. Boss Ma Whats going on?


    Boss Ma lowered his head in distress. Ive had some financial difficulties as ofte. But dont worry, I wont owe you any money. How about you take three million first?


    So, youre likely to go bankrupt, and its possible that the cops would investigate you Im never going to see that money, right?


    Boss Mas face was red. No, thats not the case


    Yeah sure! Ah Lai was incensed. The enthusiasm he had when he arrived waspletely gone. You were toying with me, right? Dont think that I dont know you, Boss Ma. I know yourpany is done for. Give me back my money! Right now! I want my money!


    Boss Ma was shocked. Ah Lai, were friends


    Whos your friend? You owe me money! Im no friend of yours!


    "You can take these three million


    What three million? Its three million and one hundred thousand! Dont forget about that one hundred thousand renminbi. Moreover, you have to pay me in full; not a single dime less! Ah Lai panted in rage as he snatched back the white powder he had brought as a gift.

 Chapter 251: True Friendship

    Chapter 251: True Friendship


    Ah Lai, you shouldnt go too far. Boss Ma sounded desperate. Its just one hundred thousand renminbi, isnt it? The tips Ive given you in the past were much more than that!


    Tips are tips, and I deserved them. Stop ying the friendship card with me. I respected you for your money. But now, you have nothing, so youre worth nothing. Quickly hand over the money.


    I just said that I dont have it right now...


    You dont have it? All right, then you can use this vi to repay the debt, said Ah Lai. Im not a fool.


    Boss Mas eyes were bloodshot. Are you trying to back me into a corner?


    Back you into a corner? Youre lucky that I havent called my loan shark brothers yet!


    Then, Ah Lai took out his phone and called a gang ofrge men with tattoos all over their shoulders. At first nce, we all knew they were gangsters.


    Ah Lai sneered. You better seize the time and get me that one hundred thousand renminbi. Otherwise, Ill take this vi.


    I could tell from the beginning that you wanted my vi! Boss Ma was so angry that his face turned purple.


    Ah Lai smiled. How can you say something so nasty? If you pay me now, I have no reason to take your vi.


    Okay, wait a minute. Im going to borrow some money. Its just one hundred thousand renminbi, and I have a lot of friends.


    Then, Boss Ma made a phone call.


    Hey Little Liu, how are you doing?


    Oh, everythings fine. I just needed some money, and I thought of borrowing one hundred thousand renminbi from you.


    Sigh. As you know, the market is stagnant now. Mypany isnt doing too well, so Im short of liquid funds.


    Ah, dont worry about it. Im not going to be bankrupt. Ill surely pay you back very soon.


    Eh? What do you mean? Dont you consider me your friend? Remember when yourpany was in trouble? II was the one who helped you every time


    Hey, hello?


    It seemed the person on the other end had hung up.


    Boss Ma slumped onto the chair and nkly gazed at the phone. He looked distressed as he muttered, How is this possible?


    Ah Lai smirked. Boss Ma Oh, no. Now we should call you Bankrupt Ma. To be honest, you are not the sort of person one would want to befriend. If it werent for your money, no one would want to be close to you.


    Nonsense! Boss Ma cursed. That Little Liu is just an ungrateful bastard!


    Birds of a feather flock together. You value money more than friendship. Of course, the people around you would do the same. Without money or other benefits, no one would be willing to be on your side.


    Boss Ma ignored Ah Lai and made another phone call.


    The person on the other end and Boss Ma seemed very friendly. It was as if they were as close as blood brothers.


    However, as soon as he talked about his situation and mentioned that he wanted to borrow money, the other person changed his attitude. Boss Ma, whats going on? Yourpanys going bankrupt?


    Boss Ma said helplessly, Yeah, thats right. I currently have a shortage of liquid funds. I wanted to borrow one hundred thousand renminbi from you to solve this problem.


    Boss Ma, to be honest, mypanys situation isnt any better. Oh right, if you dere bankruptcy, the police wille to investigate. When it happens, dont tell them about our rtionship. I wish you good luck. If you say anything that links back to me, there might be consequences.


    Then, he hung up.


    Boss Ma sank in despair. He made several calls to his friends, but the result was the same. No one wanted to lend him money.


    Boss Mas time hade to an end. He couldnt give them more benefits, so his cunning friends didnt need him anymore. Some of them even scolded and cursed him through the phone. Eventually, he couldnt stand it any further and vomited blood.


    Hey, whats your n now? Ah Lai started to get nervous. Dont try to cheat me out of my money. Even if you die, I can still sell your organs!


    Then, he swiftly took out a certificate of indebtedness. He wrote some sentences, made two copies, and grabbed Boss Mas finger to leave a bloody fingerprint on the papers. Ille back tomorrow at the same time to collect the money. If you dont have it, this vi will belong to me! Dont say that I didnt treat you with respect. The fact that youre still alive is the proof.


    Then, Ah Lai lifted the suitcase and left contentedly.


    Boss May on the chair and cried. Its retribution! Why did I befriend such terrible people? In their eyes, there is only benefit. They should all die!


    I smiled mysteriously. Boss Ma, dont be so pessimistic. People are social animals, so its impossible not to have a single true friend. Just try to make a few more calls.


    Boss Mas hands shook. He checked his address book, which had several hundred phone numbers on it. However, he couldnt find a single person worthy of his trust.


    He forced a smile. I understand now. In this world, money talks. I should have known it earlier.


    Thats not true, I said. San Bao and Li Mazi didnt befriend Qin Yu for the sake of benefits.


    Haha. Boss Maughed pitifully. I suddenly envy that Qin Yu. Ive truly lost in this aspect.


    Boss Ma sat idle on his chair for the whole morning. Many people hade to collect debts, but Boss Ma said nothing and didnt even move. I guessed he was feeling so desperate that he wanted to kill himself.


    At night, the silence in the vi was broken by someone banging on the door. Boss Ma said in distress, It seems someonese to collect the debt again


    The door sprang open, and anky man with a gloomy face walked in. He looked at Boss Ma and said, Boss.


    Boss Ma looked at him and waved his hand in dismissal. Secretary Zhang, are you here for your sry? Ill give you my car. It should cover your expenses for a few months.


    Its not that, Sir, said Secretary Zhang. I heard that yourpany is in trouble and that you need around one hundred thousand renminbi. Here are all of my savings. You should use this money to get rid of the debt.


    Boss Ma was dumbstruck. He looked at his secretary in shock. Little Zhang, you


    Sir, just take it. I dont need the money right now. Secretary Zhang lifted the snakeskin bag and ced it in front of Boss Ma. If its not enough, I can help you sell the car. In the meantime, you can take this portion.


    Little Zhang His numb heart was warm once again. Boss Ma was so touched that tears rolled down his face. Why are you doing this?


    Its what I should do, said Secretary Zhang. When I came here from the countryside, I didnt have a single penny and couldnt even fill my stomach. You provided me with shelter and gave me a job. If it werent for you, I would have be a criminal. Since you are now in trouble, I have to help you.


    Boss Ma took a deep breath then cried. Little Zhang, Im sorry that I couldnt appreciate you enough. I looked down on you because you were a country boy, and I didnt give you a good job. Never would I have thought that youd be the one to help me. Little Zhang, dont worry. Im a capable man. One day, I will rise again. When that timees and I have rice to eat, Ill make sure that you eat with me.


    Secretary Zhang smile. Boss Ma, I want to go home and do some farming. I miss my friends back there. No matter what problem I encountered, they have always helped me. But here, I cant find a true friend


    Boss Ma sighed reluctantly. You should go home then! Take the car, too.


    Secretary Zhang didnt want it. However, Boss Ma was persistent and shoved the key in his hands.


    After Secretary Zhang left, Boss Mas mood finally improved.


    I said, Now, do you believe that there is true friendship in this world? Do you understand how worried we were about Qin Yu?


    Boss Ma nodded. I want to thank you. Youve given me a very important lesson. My friends are probably looking forward to buying mypanys shares. They werent my friends, after all, justpetitors.


    I smiled. Our objective wasnt to back you into a corner, so we''ve left you an escape route. Since youve donated arge part of your assets, youve be a big donor, and your name nowes with great reputation. Every word of yours matters and an affect society, so your friends wont dare to treat you too harshly.


    Boss Ma forced a smile. Its fine. My life was ultimately ruined by those friends of mine. Ill give you the item; you should handle it as you see fit.


    Then, Boss Ma went to his bedroom and took out a green jade belt from his safe.


    It should be the jade belt Qin Yu kept talking about.


    I carefully held the belt. It was really heavy, around three or four kilograms, and it had an ancient vor.


    The fine leather had strips of ancient jades embedded into it. Under the light, the jade reflected beams in a beautiful green color. There also seemed to be streaks of blood on the leather.


    The jade belt was beautiful. However, it wasnt perfect as several jade strips were broken. I wondered what had happened to them.


    I immediately asked, Boss Ma, do you know the origin of this jade belt?


    Boss Ma nkly stared at the jade belt for several minutes. Then, he slowly told us the story.

 Chapter 252: Xiao He Chasing Han Xin Under the Moonlight

    Chapter 252: Xiao He Chasing Han Xin Under the Moonlight


    The owner of the jade belt was the renowned general Han Xin from the Han dynasty, who was also known as the Matchless General of the Nation.


    Back then, Han Xin had defeated Xiang Yuthe King of the State of Western Chuon Liu Bangs behalf.


    Thisid the foundation for the Han dynasty, and Liu Bang was extremely grateful to this general of his.


    After he was enthroned, Liu Bang conferred upon Han Xin the title of King of the Three Equilibriums and promised him that he would never die under the famous five conditions.


    The three equilibriums were the Heavens, the Earth, and the Emperor.


    As for the five conditions, the meaning was that as long as the Heavens, the Earth, and the Emperor were witnesses, Iron and Bronze could not kill him.


    At that time, Han Xin was second only to the Emperor himself.


    Nevertheless, as the Han regime stabilized, Liu Bang became overly suspicious like the previous Emperors. He was worried that his brothers, who had once fought by his side and imed the nation with him, would eventually betray him. Thus, he decided to get rid of Han Xin.


    However, Han Xin had an army of one hundred thousand soldiers and excellent generals. Since he was a righteous man, many of his subordinates were willing to die for him.


    Liu Bang and Empress Lu wanted to kill Han Xin, but thetter was like a God of War. Even if they were to mobilize all their troops, they werent sure they could defeat him. At the same time, Liu Bang had promised Han Xin that he would never kill him under those five conditions, so he couldnt murder him in broad daylight. The Emperor eventually looked for Xiao He and asked for his opinion.


    Xiao He and Han Xin were close friends, and it was Xiao He who had rmended Han Xin to Liu Bang, helping him reach the prestigious position of general.


    Even until now, people still talk about how Xiao He chased after Han Xin under the moonlight to make him stay by Liu Bangs side.


    Xiao He was well aware of who he could offend and who he could not. In order to have a bright future, he eventually sold his brother.


    Xiao He told Han Xin that Empress Lu had summoned him to the pce to discuss some serious matters.


    Han Xin had already smelled the danger, and he knew that it wasnt a good sign that the Empress had invited him to the pce. Therefore, he didnt want to go.


    However, Xiao He vowed on their friendship that there was no danger. He assured him that Empress Lu would never harm him.


    Since he trusted Xiao He, Han Xin went to the pce.


    But once he got there, Empress Lu used him of being a rebel. He was thus sentenced to death.


    Han Xin was shocked. He knew that Xiao He had betrayed him, which filled him with pain.


    Before he was executed, Han Xin roared, Back then, the Emperor promised that he wouldnt kill me under those five conditions! Are you going to break your promise?! If you kill me, Im afraid you wont be able to stop the rumors from spreading!


    Xiao He sneered. Brother, look at where you are standing now.


    Han Xin looked around and was shocked.


    ck fabric was stretched above his head; the Heavens were not a witness. He was standing on a thick carpet; the Earth was not a witness.


    Xiao He said, Its Empress Lu that wants to kill you, and the Emperor isnt even here. Therefore, the Emperor is not a witness. As for Iron and Bronze not being able to kill you We dont need to use such tools to take your life.


    Xiao He raised his hand, and a maid standing nearby immediately drew a long bamboo sword, stabbing Han Xin to death!


    After dying in the hands of the friend he had trusted the most, Han Xin was very resentful. Finally, a wisp of his soul attached itself to the jade belt through his blood.


    It was ironic that the jade belt was a gift Xiao He had given him tomemorate their friendship.


    The jade belt eventually acquired supernatural powers. As long as someone wore it, their mind would be affected, and they would be suspicious of their friends.


    Qin Yu was also affected by the jade belt and started to doubt the people around him.


    After listening to the story, Li Mazi cursed Boss Ma for being heartless. He had used such a vicious method to deal with Qin Yu.


    Boss Ma knew it was his fault, so he didnt say anything.


    San Bao asked me, Do you know how to break the curse of the jade belt?


    I smiled and said, Its simple but at the same time very hard. Since we were able to make Boss Ma regret his actions, we could use the same trick to let the soul in the jade belt know that there are still good friends in this world. Not everybody is the same as Xiao He.


    San Bao nodded. But, how can we convince the soul in the jade belt?


    I said, Thats easy, actually. We can use an ancient method to prove that were Qin Yus friends.


    What method are you talking about?


    The knives in both rib-cages method. Ancient soldiers and generals liked to use this cruel method to prove themselves. It seems well have to use this same method tonight


    My words frightened Li Mazi and San Bao. Brother, youre kidding, right? If we stab our vital parts, we might die for real.


    I helplessly said, We dont have any other way. It''s the only solution I cane up with.


    All right, well do it, San Bao and Li Mazi said in unison. We are just taking a knife for our brother, right?


    I smiled and said, We can look for a doctor and mark a safe spot on your skin to indicate where it will create the least amount of damage.


    San Bao nodded. Dont worry. Ive taken some medical courses.


    Then, we got into action. To make Han Xin believe that true friendship existed, he would have to lure him out first. I needed to prepare for that moment.


    I went out to grab three strings of coins, a rope that had been used to tie a corpse, and several coffin boards.


    I asked Li Mazi to cut the boards with a saw. Then, I used the rope to make a simple stool, cing the coins on it.


    I also prepared a simple altar. Tonight, we would invite over General Han Xin.


    After we finished the arrangements, we waited in the hotel until midnight.


    Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue were very worried as there would be a bloody scene tonight. They wanted to know if they needed to stay and help.


    I weighed things and concluded that they shouldnt stay. I didnt want to see them in danger.


    In ancient times, women were regarded as ythings. Men could freely give their women to their brothers or treat them like ves. If there was a famine, they could even eat them!


    It would be troublesome if Han Xin targeted the two women; I was not willing to put them in danger for Qin Yus sake. Thus, I asked them to stay in their room. Even if something were to happen, they shouldnte.


    The twodies nodded and returned to their room.


    There were now four people in the room: Qin Yu, San Bao, Li Mazi, and I.


    The jade belt and a knife were ced close to theatose Qin Yu.


    I threw a pinch of salt onto Qin Yus face. Soon after, the salt melted. I knew there was heavy Yin energy in his body, which made me worry a lot.


    If we couldnt save Qin Yu tonight, I was afraid he wouldnt be able to hang on for much longer.


    I asked Li Mazi and San Bao to sleep first. I would wake them up at the right time.


    While the two rested on the couch, I watched Qin Yu and waited for him to wake up.


    The clock slowly ticked by. Although I was exhausted, I didnt dare to let my guard down as I was afraid that Qin Yu would do something crazy as soon as he woke up.


    While I was pondering, Qin Yu suddenly gasped for air. It seemed like he couldnt breathe. Some strange noises came out of his throat!


    I tensed up; Li Mazi and San Bao also got up from the couch. We all anxiously watched Qin Yu.


    It seemed they couldn''t fall asleep, but it was understandable given the situation.


    Qin Yu got up from the bed then limped toward the window. His legs were spread outward at a horrible angle. They almost formed a straight line. I felt my scalp numb as I worried that Qin Yus legs would twist and break.


    His eyes were blurry as he stiffly walked to the window.


    He absentmindedly looked through the window. Then, he shouted with great sorrow, Han Xin was an invincible general. A wave of his hand could destroy hundreds of thousands of soldiers! In order to not let his friend Xiao He down, unbeknownst to all, he let his blood dye the pce red.


    It was the poem peopleter used to mourn for Han Xin.


    After shouting the verse, Qin Yu didnt move and stared nkly through the window. He looked dejected and lonely, deeply hurt.


    I took a deep breath and grabbed the coins on the stool, gently dropping them down; they created clinking noises.


    Ancient people often showed their skills through their sword styles, by drinking liquor, creating poems, and throwing coins for entertainment. The clinking sounds of the coins could attract Han Xin.


    Sure enough, when he heard the sound of the coins, he tilted his head and suspiciously looked at me.


    His gaze was profound and filled with great might. I felt my soul shiver.


    I took a deep breath and poured the rice wine into three big tumblers. Then, I threw the coins inside the tumblers.


    These coin strings were simr to willow twigs as both were full of Yin energy. They could allow ghosts to drink wine.


    The soul possessing Qin Yus body couldnt resist the temptation of the wine. He flew out of Qin Yus body and sat on the stool made of coffin boards. Then, he tried to drink the wine from the three tumblers.


    I saw a wisp of white smoke slowly rise from the tumblers and entered Han Xins mouth.


    After the figure drank the wine, his appearance became more clear. I could see a man wearing armor. He was around seven feet tall and looked handsome, but his face was filled with sadness.


    I knew he was General Han Xin. I paid my respects. Greetings, Great General!


    Li Mazi and San Bao saw me bow to an empty stool and shout Great General. They were speechless.


    To avoid scaring them and to prevent them from bothering Han Xin, I didnt open their Mind Eye.


    Han Xin was also surprised that I could see him. However, right after that, he angrily red at me, preparing to enter Qin Yus body once again.


    General, please wait! I immediately said. My friend doesnt have a grudge against you. Why do you keep pestering him?

 Chapter 253: Eternal Scar

    Chapter 253: Eternal Scar


    At this moment, I heard a voice in my head. Im helping him see the ugly faces of the people around him!


    I knew that Han Xin was talking to me through some sort of telepathy.


    Han Xin snorted, There are no real friends in this world. Every one of them is a despicable person.


    I was surprised. Are you saying that Qin Yus friends arent good people?


    Exactly. Han Xin coldly pointed at San Bao. See that guy? He stole his friends wife. He deserves to die just for that.


    What? He stole his friends wife? I was startled and looked at San Bao.


    The souls of the dead were simple and always showed their true emotions; they wouldnt lie. So, did San Bao really have an affair with Qin Yus wife?


    If so, we couldnt me Han Xin for taking over Qin Yus body.


    However, I knew that there had to be some sort of misunderstanding. We had to clear things up.


    I red at San Bao. You, on your knees!


    San Bao was stunned and didnt understand why I had suddenly turned hostile. However, he still went on his knees.


    San Bao, did you have an affair with Ah Yan? I asked.


    San Bao opened his eyes wide. What are you talking about? Ah Yan and I have been nothing more than ssmates. Moreover, shes my friends wife! How could I have an affair with her? Youre looking down on me.


    I exhaled in relief. San Bao didnt sound like he was lying.


    I turned to Han Xin.


    Han Xin gave a bitter smile. Does he think that I dont know what they did in the KTV room?


    I asked San Bao, Have you ever been with Ah Yan in a KTV room?


    San Bao finally saw the light. I got it! Boss Ma must have plotted against us since then. That guy is really wicked; he actually used such a method to trick us.


    I asked San Bao to borate on what he meant.


    It turned out that Boss Ma had asked Qin Yu and San Bao to go to a KTV room. He told them that he wanted to give them something nice.


    When San Bao arrived at the KTV room, he saw that Qin Yu had brought Ah Yan with him; the duo was always busy and rarely had a chance to have fun together.


    When they were in university, San Bao also had a good rtionship with Ah Yan, so they were happy to see each other. They drank and sang together.


    In the meantime, Boss Ma kept pouring wine to Qin Yu and eventually got him drunk.


    Ah Yan suggested taking Qin Yu home, but Boss Ma insisted on taking him outside. He said that they would get some fresh air and return shortly.


    He dragged Qin Yu outside, leaving San Bao and Ah Yan alone in the room. While waiting for Boss Ma and Qin Yu, the two of them kept having fun.


    To San Bao, Ah Yan was like a sister, so he didnt think much about the situation. They were both a bit drunk, so they sang a few love songs and decided to leave after seeing that Qin Yu wasnting back.


    Before leaving, they found a jade belt in the room. Boss Ma said that the belt was the gift he had brought for Qin Yu. Back then, no one paid much attention to it.


    They were unaware that Boss Ma had been plotting against Qin Yu since that day!


    In ancient times, a man and a woman should never touch one another. Even a handshake was considered inappropriate. That was why General Han Xin thought that San Bao and Ah Yan were in an ambiguous rtionship. Then, he stayed with Qin Yu in order to show him the true face of his friend.


    I gave a wry smile and hurried to exin the reason to Han Xin. Were in modern times now. We dont discriminate against gender anymore. A friendship can be formed between a man and a woman. Its fine to drink and sing together.


    However, I knew this wouldnt be enough. I had to use my ace up my sleeve. General Han Xin, how can I convince you that San Bao and Qin Yu are true friends?


    Hahaha. Han Xinughed like crazy. There is no true friendship in this world. Xiao He did so much for me, and I thought he was my friend. However, he still sold me in the end!


    That might not be the case, I said coldly. If I were to tell you that someone here is willing to sacrifice their life for their friend, would you believe me?


    No.


    All right, lets bet then. If San Bao sacrifices his life for Qin Yu, will you spare them?


    Fine, lets make this bet. Han Xins voice rose in my head.


    I nced at San Bao then threw a shining dagger at his feet. Its time to prove that youre willing to sacrifice your life for your friend Qin Yu!


    San Bao nodded. Without a bit of hesitation, he raised the dagger and aimed at his chest.


    Hold on! called Li Mazi. Youre not married, and you dont even have kids yet. If you were to die right now, you would let down your family. Your ancestors wont forgive you. Let me take your ce!


    Then, Li Mazi tried to snatch the dagger from San Baos hand.


    No! San Bao held the dagger tightly. You cant do that! You have parents and children to take care of. If you die, how can they live? On the other hand, Im all alone, so its okay if I die.


    Idiot! Li Mazi screamed and scoffed. Why are youpeting for something like this? After I die, I believe that you will take care of my family.


    San Bao said, No, youre the one whos an idiot. How can I take care of your wife? Are you heartless enough to leave your wife and children alone? Even if I can take care of them, how could it bepared to <em>your</em> care?


    They quarreled and fought for the dagger.


    <em>Damn, these two sure can act!</em>


    I anxiously watched General Han Xin, afraid that he might see through the act.


    Han Xin wore a contemting face and stood still as he watched Li Mazi and San Bao.


    I was excited because I knew their willingness to die for their friend had touched him.


    All right. Eventually, they said determinedly, We should each take a stab.


    "Good, lets do that.


    I continued to look at General Han Xin and wondered what he was going to do.


    Han Xin suddenly sighed. Forget it. Sometimes, a true friend is the only thing you need in life. Not everyone will turn out to be like Xiao He.


    Then, he smiled and disappeared into the jade belt.


    I heaved a sigh of relief.


    Li Mazi and San Bao were still fighting for the knife.


    I walked up to them. Thats enough. The general believed you.


    No, we havent sacrificed our lives yet Ah, what did you just say? The general believed us? Is he gone?


    I nodded.


    San Bao and Li Mazi immediately rxed andnded on the couch. Phew, hes finally gone.


    I went to wake up Qin Yu.


    Qin Yus body was brimming with Yin energy while his Yang energy was pretty low. When he woke up, he was dazed and couldnt remember what had happened to him during the past several days.


    He looked at Li Mazi in confusion. Li Dog Balls? When did youe here, mate? I didnt even notice.


    Li Mazi and San Bao exchanged looks thenughed. You finally recognized me, huh? Do you know that you almost killed me?


    Qin Yu was baffled and looked at Li Mazi. You havent changed. You still like to talk nonsense.


    Li Mazi could only tell him what had happened during the past several days.


    After listening to the story, Qin Yu dropped his jaw in shock. Then, with tears in his eyes, he hugged Li Mazi and San Bao. My brothers, how can you be this stupid! I treated you like crap, yet you still helped me. You even wanted to kill yourselves for my sake!


    Its all right, just stop saying such disgusting things! Li Mazi shivered. I have goosebumps all over my arms, see? Anyway, if you want to thank someone, you should thank that expert!


    Li Mazi pointed at me. Hes the one who saved your life.


    Qin Yu finally realized that there was a stranger in the room. He smiled embarrassedly and said, Thank you.


    I waved my hand. Theres no need. I helped you because of Li Mazi.


    That night, Qin Yu acted as host and took us to a five-star hotel to drink and eat. He drank a lot and hugged Li Mazi, crying bitterly. Boss Ma treated me very well, and I thought he was a good senior. How could he do something so horrible to me?


    As for Boss Ma, he eventually went bankrupt. His friends took the chance to hit him while he was down and swallowed his empire. Boss Ma became penniless and was jailed for several years due to some of the things he had done.


    After getting discharged, he was very poor and almost became a beggar on the streets.


    Qin Yu visited him and supported him by giving him some cash.


    Boss Ma didnt believe that Qin Yu wanted to give him a hand during the darkest moment of his life. He suspected that Qin Yu was plotting against him.


    Afterward, he disappeared from the city, and no one saw him again


    I remembered what Han Xin had said before he left. Sometimes, a true friend is the only thing you need in life.


    But, was it really that easy to find a true friend?


    In this money-centered society, people used benefits to weigh their friendships.


    If you helped them, theyd consider you a true friend. But if you no longer held any value, they wouldnt hesitate to throw you away like a piece of trash.


    It was better to be alert and choose ones friends carefully!


    I hoped that history would have stopped while Xiao He was chasing after his friend Han Xin under the moonlight. With that, that idiom of theirs would have had a good meaning forever.


    However, reality was often cruel, and the only thing Han Xin was left with was an eternal scar.

 Chapter 254: The Strange Story of the University Entrance Exam

    Chapter 254: The Strange Story of the University Entrance Exam


    Our trip to Sanya was overall pretty nice.


    Although we encountered some unexpected events, that was part of the highs and lows of life.


    As a result of the trip, Li Mazi and Ru Xue officially got into a rtionship. At the same time, Yin Xinyue and I became more intimate. When we came home, Yin Xinyue gave me her first time.


    It was a clear night with a gentle breeze, and the bright moon was high in the sky. I bought two bottles of good red wine and poured the wine into two high-stem sses. I then lit up two candles and turned off the light. Under the gentle light of the candles, Yin Xinyue looked like a flower waiting to bloom. When I saw her, my heart started to race, and I wished I could keep looking at her forever.


    After a passionate night, I overslept, waking up at noon the next day.


    When I got up, Yin Xinyue had already left for work. She had prepared a simple but warm breakfast for me and left a small note with a loving message.


    <em>Life is truly wonderful!</em> I wolfed down my breakfast. I was in a very good mood.


    As I ate my breakfast, Mr. Bai, the owner of the shop next to mine, knocked on my door. He said with a smile, Good afternoon, Little Zhang. You had a girl stay overnight, eh?


    I nodded and felt embarrassed. I was a virgin not too long ago, so I didnt feel confident talking about this matter.


    Mr. Baiughed. Its all right. You guys are adults already. Why do you have to be shy about this?


    I didnt want to talk about this any longer, so I asked, Mr. Bai, what brings you here today?


    Two days ago, someone came to find you. They looked like they were in a rush. However, your shop was empty and there was no way to contact you, so they left a note and asked me to give it to you.


    Then, he handed me a piece of paper.


    I got it. Thank you, Mr. Bai.


    After seeing Mr. Bai off, I threw the paper aside. There was no need to read it because the sender probably wanted me to help them with an otherworldly item. My happy life had just started; I didnt want to part from Yin Xinyue, nor did I want to ept dangerous tasks!


    A few dayster, Mr. Bai came to me. You havent called that number, have you?


    How did you know that? I was surprised.


    Mr. Bai sounded angry. Before leaving, that person also asked for my number. Theyve been calling me these days!


    Anyway, your behavior is deplorable. They are really in a pinch right now, and youpletely ignored them. Are you even an otherworldly merchant?


    I kept quiet. Mr. Bai couldnt understand my difficulties.


    I was exhausted, and I just wanted to spend a few days as an ordinary man.


    Anyway, Mr. Bai was a stubborn man. If I didnt make the call, he would keep bothering me, so I could only agree to call the client.


    However, Mr. Bai didnt feel at ease and forced me to make a call right in front of him.


    After the call went through, a hoarse voice came to my ear. Who are you looking for?


    Ive heard you came to my antique shop a few days ago.


    Ah, you are Mr. Zhang, the owner of the antique shop! The gloomy and hoarse voice of the person changed instantly. In an excited tone, the person said, Mr. Zhang, please help us. My daughter is about to die! I dont know what to do. Please,e over. Im going to send a car to pick you up!


    Wait a minute, I urged. Dont get too excited. Stay calm and tell me what happened. I need to know whats going before epting the task.


    The person on the line wanted me toe over immediately. Its reallyplicated. I cant tell you clearly through the phone.


    I was helpless. Since that person was so persistent, I couldnt refuse. All right, give me your address. Iming over to your ce.


    I wanted to call Li Mazi as I passed by his house, but seeing that he was happily cooking with Ru Xue, I decided not to disturb him.


    I drove alone to the address.


    It was an apartment in the school district area. Normally, apartments near the school were extremely expensive. If this family could buy an apartment here, they must be rich.


    I guessed I could earn some money this time.


    I stood in front of the building and called the person. Soon after, a middle-aged but beautiful woman came downstairs. Although she had some makeup on, it couldnt cover her tired face.


    When I told her who I was, she burst out crying. There is finally hope for my daughter! My daughter will be saved!


    I felt helpless and tried to clear things up. Maam, I dont even know what happened to your daughter. I cant promise you anything. If its beyond my capacity, I wont be able to do anything.


    The middle-aged woman nodded. Mr. Zhang, I know youll find a solution. Ive heard of you, and Im sure you can help me.


    She was trying to trick herself into believing that everything would be fine. I could tell that she must have been under a lot of pressure recently.


    I couldnt do anything else but wave my hand. I need to see the patient first. Well discusster. The middle-aged woman led me to an elevator to get to the fifth floor.


    Inside the elevator, the woman told me that herst name was Wu. Her daughter was about to take her university entrance exam when something strange happened.


    As her mother, the middle-aged woman was very worried. The university entrance exam was a big turning point and could greatly affect the teenagers life. If things didnt go well, it would be a lifelong regret.


    Along the way, the woman talked nonstop and almost caused my eardrums to ache. However, I understood that she was just a mother worried about her daughter, so I didnt interrupt her.


    After entering the apartment, she asked me to wait in the living room while she went to her daughters room to ask her to dress properly. It was quite a long timeter when she showed up again supporting a young girl.


    I had to admit that her daughter was really pretty. She was slim and tall, and she wore a floral blue dress. The young girl looked graceful and gentle.


    However, her small, dimpled face was pale, and her body was so weak that she couldnt walk alone. If her mother didnt support her, she would stumble and fall.


    After just two steps, she was gasping for her breath. However, she still greeted me with a smile, Good afternoon, Uncle.


    Child, dont force yourself. Theres no need to talk.


    I turned to ask her mother, Why didnt you take her to the hospital to get a checkup? She looks malnourished.


    Ms. Wu sighed. If doctors could treat her, I wouldnt need to invite you. Weve visited many hospitals, even the ones in Beijing, but they couldnt help her. Previously, we had tried a traditional treatment and it worked. However, her situation turned for the worse after some time. Now, she cant even walk properly


    As Ms. Wu exined, she cried again. Her daughter hurried to wipe her mothers tears.


    All right, answer my questions. Since when did your daughter start to have this disease? Also, did she touch anything strange or offend anybody?


    Ms. Wu exined the situation to me.


    Ms. Wu was divorced and raised her daughter alone. Although they had rough times, Ms. Wu was very happy seeing her daughter grow up healthy.


    As her daughter was about to take the university entrance exam, Ms. Wu nned everything with great care. She cared about every detail, from eating to sleeping, her lessons in ss, and even her extra sses. Shed perfectly fulfilled her duty as a mother.


    However, around two months ago, strange things started happening.


    One day, after returning home from school, her daughter said that she didnt feel well.


    Strangely enough, she couldnt tell which part of her body was hurting. She only knew that she felt powerless and that her head throbbed. She wasnt in the mood nor did she have the strength to study.


    Ms. Wu felt anxious and thought that her daughter had fallen ill. She took her to the hospital for a checkup, but the test showed that she was fine.


    Ms. Wu thought that her daughter was too tired and stressed from studying. They had a discussion, and she eventually cooked her some foods that could help her rx.


    After her daughter ate the foods and supplements, her condition improved. However, early the next morning, she found her body abnormally heavy. Her head buzzed, and she couldnt even walk.


    She told her mother that she felt as if there was a big rock pressing on her chest. She couldnt walk or breathe like normal.


    Ms. Wu was shocked. The university entrance exam was nearing, and if her daughter got sick and couldnt take the exam, it would be a disaster.


    Ms. Wu took her daughter to a bigger hospital where she had a full body checkup. However, there was nothing wrong with her body ording to the test result. Ms. Wu had searched for famous doctors everywhere, but it was useless.


    The woman was desperate. She had set all her hopes on her daughter, and if something were to happen to her, she didnt know how she could carry on with her life.


    However, that wasnt even the worst. The worst thing had happened just a few days ago...

 Chapter 255: Losing Ones Soul

    Chapter 255: Losing One''s Soul


    That day, Ms. Wus daughter woke up at midnight and screamed, I dont want to go! I dont want to go!


    Ms. Wu was frightened and hurried to her daughters room.


    What she saw next made her shiver even more.


    Her daughter stood on her toes in the middle of her room. In front of her was a hangingmp, and right above themp was a red scarf hung down like a rope.


    Her daughter walked forward and shook her head painfully. She screamed, I dont want to go!


    However, it seemed she couldnt control her body. Eventually, she reached the red scarf and was about to put her head through the loop.


    Ms. Wu screamed her heart out and stormed forward to hug her daughter.


    However, her daughter seemed to possess superhuman strength, and Ms. Wu couldnt stop her no matter how hard she tried. She could only watch as she put her neck through the red loop. The fabric then shrank and started strangling the young girl.


    The girl couldnt breathe. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head, and her throat produced some choking sounds.


    Ms. Wu was scared out of her wits. She hugged her daughter and tried to pull her off, but it didnt work. Out of frustration, she grabbed a pair of scissors and cut the red fabric. Her daughter fell off the loop. Fortunately, she was still alive.


    When the daughter woke up, she cried. Ms. Wu asked her, What happened? Why did you want to hang yourself?


    The daughter told her that while she was sleeping, she heard someone call her name. When she opened her eyes, she saw a big man standing in front of her. He was the one calling her.


    He kept calling her name and asked her to go with him. Ms. Wus daughter didnt know what was going on, but her body wasnt listening to her anymore. She felt as if someone else was controlling her body.


    She struggled, but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t break free.


    Her mind was a haze, but she heard more and more voices calling her. However, those voices came from outside the window. She turned around and found many of her peers hanging out of her window. They all wore a creepy smile and watched her.


    Some of them were actually her ssmates!


    Come y with us! If you use that red scarf to hang yourself, you cane to us Her friends kept encouraging her to hang herself.


    Of course, Ms. Wus daughter didnt want to do that. She struggled hard but to no avail.


    If Ms. Wu hadnt cut off the rope, her daughter would have died for real.


    When Ms. Wu heard the story, she knew that it wasnt a normal disease. She suspected that her daughter had provoked something evil or supernatural. As such, she did everything in her power to find me.


    I took a deep breath and became tense. ording to Ms. Wus description, it was possible that her daughters soul was lost. That would exin why her body became so feeble.


    If her soul was really lost, it was going to be very difficult to solve this issue.


    I asked Ms. Wu to find some candles. Then, I told her to soak them in castor oil and arrange ten of them around her daughter.


    A human had three ethereal souls and seven corporeal souls. These ten candles represented her ten souls. I wanted to know which ethereal souls or corporeal souls she had lost.


    After the candles were lit, I asked the girl to sit down and not to move. At the same time, I asked Ms. Wu to lock all the doors and windows and let down the curtains as I didnt want the wind to affect the result. Then, I started to observe the candle lights.


    The candles burned slowly, and their light gradually grew bigger. Although the lights had different intensities, they didnt vary too much.


    Soon after, I spotted a strange phenomenon. The candle at the Southeast of Ms. Wus daughter had its me pointed at the girl. At the same time, the color went from faint yellow to blood red; it was getting redder and redder as time passed by.


    I immediately rushed to check it out. When I confirmed that there was no wind in the room, I blew out all the candles. Ms. Wu, one of your daughters corporeal souls has left her body after experiencing a fearful event. Also, the human corporeal soul is the most important among the ten souls. If it leaves the body, the person can only live up to ten days. How long ago did your daughter be this feeble?


    Ms. Wu turned pale with fright and quickly counted on her fingers. She answered me with a frightened face. Its been around seven or eight days already. Grandmaster, please save my daughter! Im begging you!


    Her daughter was also startled. Iforted the family and tried to calm them down.


    It seems that we will need to find your daughters soul tonight. Well take action when it bes dark. We dont have much time left. Im going home to prepare the items I need. You guys stay here and wait for me!


    Ms. Wu was afraid that I would run away. Before I left, she got on her knees and said, Grandmaster, please do not abandon us. If something happens to my daughter, I wont be able to live on


    As long as you save my daughter, I will do anything. Even if you ask me to serve you for the rest of my life, I would do it.


    I could hear the ambiguous offer in her words, but I knew that she was saying it out of desperation.


    Ms. Wu, dont worry. Ive agreed to help you, so I will try my best to solve this.


    As soon as I got to my shop, I took the Soul Summoning Banner from the chest my grandfather had left me. Then, I went to a market nearby to buy a rooster with a big redb.


    When I returned to her apartment, Ms. Wu asked me respectfully, Did you find all the things you needed?


    I nodded then ced the Soul Summoning Banner and the rooster on the ground.


    Ms. Wu was puzzled and asked, How do you n to use these things?


    I checked the sky. Its still early, and it would be pointless to tell you now. Ill tell you when the sky bes dark. We''re going to need a lot of energy tonight; you better have a good rest.


    Ms. Wu nodded and told me I could rest in her room while she took care of her daughter.


    There were many rumors about widows looking for young men, but I knew that she just wanted to earn my favor to solve this problem. She didnt like me or anything.


    I smiled at her. Its okay. Ill just rest on the sofa.


    Ms. Wu looked at me with gratitude in her eyes. She forced a smile and took her daughter back to her room.


    I rolled on the sofa for a while but couldnt fall asleep.


    Anyway, Ms. Wus house had good geomancy, and I didnt find any imbnce between Yin and Yang energy. Also, almost all the stuff in her house was modern. There shouldnt be any otherworldly item.


    I was walking around the apartment when Ms. Wu came out of her bedroom. She gently closed the door and embarrassedly looked at me, saying that she couldnt fall asleep.


    I smiled and said, In that case, can we sit and talk? I have some questions I want to ask you.


    Ms. Wu nodded and sat across the table.


    Are there any old items in your house? Things that are older than one hundred years old.


    Ms. Wu contemted then shook her head. No, all the furniture in my house was just recently bought.


    In that case, where did the red scarfe from? The one your daughter used to hang herself.


    Ms. Wu thought for a bit and then panicked. Right, the red scarf! Where did ite from? We dont have any red scarves in our house. Also, my daughter hasnt gone out for a while. Where did she get it?


    I felt that there was a problem with that red scarf. Where is it now?


    Ms. Wu tried to search through her memory. I dont remember. I was just worried about my daughter at the time, so I wasnt in the right mind to check the red scarf. After I cut it, I just trashed it on the ground. I havent seen it since then...


    I urged, We have to find it. I suspect that your daughter lost her corporeal soul when she used that scarf to hung herself. Her lost soul is probably attached to that scarf.


    Ms. Wu nodded. She let me wait in the living room while she searched around.


    However, she couldnt find the item. She was so anxious that her face turned pale. Somethings wrong. Howe I cant find it? It was on the ground thest time I saw it!


    After looking at her panic-stricken figure, I pitied her. Its all right. I think someone might have taken it. One question, did that red scarf look ancient?


    Ms. Wu shook her head. No, that red scarf wasnt an antique. I remember seeing that type of scarf before. It was near our apartment building. A granny has a stall where she sells misceneous stuff.


    Oh? Except for her, does anybody else sell that sort of red fabric scarf?


    No, theres no one else. Ms. Wu didnt hesitate to answer. Nowadays, that sort of fabric scarf isnt really used.


    I contemted then nodded. I asked Ms. Wu to seize the time and take me to see that old woman. Perhaps we could discover something from her.


    Ms. Wu took me downstairs, and right at the entrance of the neighborhood, I met that granny.

 Chapter 256: The Old Woman Who Sells Red Silk Scarves

    Chapter 256: The Old Woman Who Sells Red Silk Scarves


    She was an old woman around eighty years old. She pedaled a cargo tricycle that was stacked with red silk scarves. Her tricycle was equipped with a speaker that shouted, Traditional handmade woven scarves. We have one hundred years of history


    I took a deep breath then went toward the old woman. I gave her a smile and asked, Granny, how much for one red scarf?


    The woman smiled. Boy, do you want one? You can get it for your girlfriend. Recently, many people have bought my scarves, and they were very satisfied.


    Then, the old woman handed me a scarf.


    I smiled and said, Granny, you just said that many people have bought your red scarves. Can you tell me what kind of people were they?


    The granny answered with pride, Oh, people of all kinds. Students, office workers, and even somepany bosses. One man even bought twenty-four red scarves at once.


    I frowned. This man who had bought twenty-four red silk scarves was definitely suspicious.


    I asked, Do you still remember the person who bought twenty-four scarves? Why did he buy so many scarves?


    The old woman shook her head. I dont know, but I guess he was going to gift them to other people.


    I thought for a while, then nodded. I handed the woman one hundred renminbi and said, Granny, if hees back and buys more red scarves from you, could you call me? Ill give you another one hundred renminbi if you do me this favor.


    The old woman was delighted. Why are you looking for him? Anyway, I dont use the phone much, and I only know how to pick up calls. I keep it around just in case my children need to call me.


    Oh, thats not a problem. I added my number to her contacts and set it as a quick dial. The granny just needed to press the number 2 to call me.


    After showing her how to call me, I left with Ms. Wu.


    Ms. Wu looked at me in puzzlement. Mr. Zhang, that man who bought twenty-four scarves... Is he the culprit? Why did he buy so many scarves? Also, does this mean that there are other victims aside from my daughter?


    I said, I cant say for sure, but its better to be prepared. Lets just wait for her call. When we find him, everything will be clear.


    Ms. Wu nodded and looked pensive.


    Ms. Wu, have you offended anybody recently? Or, your daughter has offended anybody?


    Ms. Wu shook her head like a rattle drum. I think I get along well with my neighbors and friends. They know Im a single mom, so they often help me. My daughters gentle and timid, and she wouldnt offend anybody.


    What about her father? Even if you guys divorced, your daughter is sick. Howe he isnt here?


    Ms. Wu sighed and sobbed. My ex-husband is a heartless bastard. After our divorce, he took all the assets and left me with this empty apartment. He has nevere back to check on our daughter. He doesnt care if she lives or dies!


    My heart was filled with rage. How could someone be so heartless? However, I was an outsider and didnt know the situation well, so it wasnt my ce to judge her husband.


    The night quickly fell. I read the sacred text of Daoism once over to clear my head. Ms. Wu, are you ready? Were going to summon your daughters corporeal soul.


    Ms. Wu nodded. Im ready.


    I found a red rope and soaked it into salty strong liquor. Then, I tied the rooster to the Soul Summoning Banner with the red rope.


    A lonely corporeal soul was far from being stable, and it had been a long time since it was out of the body. If I summoned it all the way home, I was afraid that it would scatter. That was why I had to buy a big rooster.


    The rooster was very important as it would keep Ms. Wus daughters soul intact.


    The rooster was an animal with affinity to the Yin element. Not only it wouldnt hurt the soul, but it would also nurture it.


    After preparing everything, I asked Ms. Wu to recall the ces her daughter used to visit. Later, she would have to hold the Soul Summoning Banner and search through these ces. As she walked, she had to call her daughters name without stopping.


    Ms. Wu agreed without the slightest hesitation.


    I followed closely behind her because I was afraid that she could make a mistake.


    We descended the staircase and started to walk around the neighborhood. Some security guys on night duty saw her strange appearance and were scared out of their wits; they ran far away. Ms. Wu didnt care about them and just walked around as I had asked her.


    At first, she went to the park in front of her apartment building. Her daughter often did a morning run before she went to school. This ce could be considered the ce she visited the most.


    Ms. Wu raised the Soul Summoning Banner and guided the big rooster as she walked around the park. However, nothing happened.


    There was no wind tonight, and the Soul Summoning Banner drooped as the rooster followed behind Ms. Wu.


    Then, she checked around the apartment building, but we still didnt see any strange phenomenon.


    I was disappointed and thought to myself, <em>It seems her daughters soul was really attached to that red silk scarf, which is now missing...</em>


    Ms. Wu began to sob after we had walked around the apartment without any luck. Iforted her. Dont cry, please think carefully. What other ces did your daughter use to visit?


    Ms. Wu contemted and remembered ake in the park behind the building. Her daughter often went there for fresh air.


    I asked her to go there and check.


    It was veryte, so nobody was there. A few stars were visible through the dark clouds, and a chilling wind swayed the trees, making rattling sounds. The cold moonlight crept through the dried tree branches, which created creepy shadows on the ground.


    Ms. Wu raised the white Soul Summoning Banner and the rooster tied to it. This scene was somewhat frightening.


    She had poured her heart into finding her daughter, so she didnt really care about the scary surroundings.


    We walked on a small path situated between the trees, and not many people would walk around here. I didnt know why Ms. Wu hade here.


    The small path was really long. We walked for quite a long time but it had yet to end. If Ms. Wu didnt lead the way, I would have thought that we had encountered a ghost wall. If that was the case, we would never be able to get out of it.


    After around ten minutes, I saw something strange!


    Not far from us, I heard a faint noise. It sounded like a womans feeble whine. However, it seemed hoarse and somewhat mechanical as it was devoid of human emotions.


    It sounded like someone was calling a name, but I couldnt tell which name. I frowned and focused my mind.


    It was veryte and in such a deserted area, it was definitely not normal to hear something so strange.


    I wanted to stop Ms. Wu, but it seemed that she hadnt heard the strange sound as she kept walking forward. I called her twice, but she didnt answer. I guessed she was so absorbed in finding her daughters soul that she didnt pay attention to anything else.


    After considering things, I decided not to disturb her. The voice I heard was strange and possibly dangerous. Nevertheless, the more dangerous it was, the higher the chance to find clues about Ms.Wus daughters lost soul.


    Even if it was dangerous, we had to take this risk. If something happened, we could just run.


    I had the Peach Soul Flower with me. By this time, the flower had gathered enough energy. It shouldnt be a problem to use it to save us during a perilous moment like this.


    The opposite party approached us. As we got closer to one another, I saw a lonentern that swung back and forth in the air. That lonentern emitted a weak halo, and I could see a dark shadow behind thentern.


    I immediately recalled the Lantern-Lighting Ghost.


    The Lantern-Lighting Ghost was a ghost that carried a Yang me and tried to bump into souls on the street. To put it simply, it wanted to find someone to die for it. If people, especially drunk ones, bumped into this ghost, they would die shortly after.


    After thinking about this, my head throbbed. How could we encounter such a creature in this ce?


    I couldnt just stand around and watch Ms. Wu fall into such a dangerous situation. I rushed forward and patted her shoulder. Do you see the white light over there? It wille and try to rub onto you. You must avoid it at all costs. Do you understand?


    Ms. Wu was frightened. She looked up and saw the faint white halo that was moving toward her.


    She looked scared. Whats that white halo?


    I took a deep breath and said, Remember my words. Do not bump into it no matter what happens. Now just move forward and do not offend that shadow.


    Although Ms. Wu was scared, she mustered her courage for her daughter''s sake. She nodded resolutely and walked forward.


    I hid in the trees and gazed at that thing.


    As soon as that thing made a move, I would jump out to protect Ms. Wu.


    Soon after, the white halo approached Ms. Wu. When that happened, I caught a glimpse of the shadow, and I felt shivers run down my spine.


    Ms. Wu dropped her jaw in shock. She even forgot that she had to walk forward; she stood in ce while holding the Soul Summoning Banner. If her daughters life wasnt on the line, she would have run away already!

 Chapter 257: Summoning the Soul at Midnight

    Chapter 257: Summoning the Soul at Midnight


    The person holding thentern was a man wearing a shroud.


    The man had a thickyer of white powder on his face, while his cheeks and his lips were painted red. He wore a Chinesendlord hat and held antern in his hand.


    <em>Whats up with his appearance? He looks like a paper doll from a funeral supplies shop!</em>


    His face was pale, and his movements stiff. He was no different from those zombies seen in horror movies.


    I gasped and felt my scalp going numb. Although I had guessed that it was some sort of Lantern-Lighting Ghost, I couldnt suppress my fear now that I was facing him.


    Since even I was scared, how could Ms. Wu not be!


    She looked at me, shaking in fear. She wanted to know my opinion. I gestured to her to maneuver around him without touching him.


    Ms. Wu nodded and anxiously advanced forward. I followed her through the trees along the path.


    The moment I brushed past the man, I saw that both of his hands were nailed by coffin nails into thentern he was holding. It didnt seem like he noticed us as he walked past Ms. Wu.


    Shortly after, we were a distance apart from one other. I exhaled in relief and wiped the sweat on my forehead. I signaled to Ms. Wu to move forward.


    However, before we could move, we heard hopping footsteps behind us.


    I quickly turned around and was shocked to see the man standing behind me; he was around one meter away from me.


    The corners of his mouth rose as if he was smiling. However, his eyes were still tightly closed. A strange wind blew over, which billowed his clothes.


    <em>Damn, why is he following me? I have to stay away from this guy.</em>


    The man was clearly dead, and watery blood was oozing from his nostrils and mouths, which left streaks on the powder on his face.


    Stand still! Unexpectedly, the dead man talked. His voice was cold and mechanical.


    I stared in shock. Who are you?


    Wait for me, he suddenly said. Wait for me.


    Just who the hell are you?! I gathered my courage and shouted at him.


    Wait for me. Wait for me. The strange sound kept escaping his throat. After listening to him, my scalp went numb. I didnt know if I should leave or stay.


    Ms. Wu whispered, Grandmaster, what should we do? Who is this man?


    I pondered then told her, You should find a safe ce and hide. Ill deal with him.


    Ms. Wu nodded and left. I took out the Peach Soul Flower and gazed at the man. Have you evere across a young girls soul? Her corporeal soul is missing, and I suspect it might be rted to you.


    The man didnt answer and kept repeating, Wait for me. Wait for me. I wondered whom or what he was waiting for.


    Eventually, I shouted, Bastard, who the heck are you? If you dont talk, dont me me for being rude!


    Then, I raised the flower and threatened him with it.


    However, the man didnt move and kept repeating the same words.


    I was baffled by his behavior and had no idea what was happening.


    Eventually, I ran out of patience. I felt that he was just stalling to prevent us from moving forward. He didnt want to let us know whaty ahead.


    I decided to ignore him and called Ms. Wu so that we could continue our trip.


    As soon as I prepared to leave, a girls voice came out from the dead mans mouth. Mommy!


    The voice was vague, as if from a girl calling for her mother in her sleep. However, I was sure that she had just said, mommy.


    Ms. Wu shivered when she heard the voice, and the Soul Summoning Banner in her hand dropped to the ground.


    She said as tears filled her eyes, Thats my daughter! Daughter, where are you? Where are you?!


    "What? I had a headache. I didnt expect that her daughters soul would be inside the dead man. Who had sealed her soul in his body?


    Ms. Wu got on her knees. Grandmaster, please save my daughter! Take her soul out of that corpse!


    I pulled her up. Dont panic. Let me think of a solution.


    Honestly, I was also bewildered. If the objective was to deal with the corpse, I could have just used the Peach Soul Flower. However, Ms. Wus daughters soul was sealed within it, so I couldnt attack it directly. Her soul wasnt stable, and even a little bit of Yang energy would be enough to destroy it.


    Left with no choice, I could only negotiate with the other party.


    Of course, negotiating with the corpse would be pointless as it was just a puppet. I had to find the one who was controlling it.


    I knew that when someone used the Corpse Control Technique, they couldnt be more than three hundred meters away from the corpse. I called out loudly and asked to talk with the corpses master.


    I called several times, but no one replied. While I was having a headache thinking about what to do next, my phone rang.


    I looked at the phone and discovered that Chuyi was calling me.


    Chuyi would always show up when I needed him the most.


    I was happy and hurried to pick up the phone.


    Stay there, Iming, said Chuyi.


    Where are you? I was startled. How could Chuyi know where I was?


    However, he already hung up the call. I tried to call him back, but his phone was off.


    Ms. Wu anxiously looked at me, hoping that I could find a solution.


    Since Chuyi had asked me to wait for him, it was better to do so. I took Ms. Wu and hid behind a big bush. We observed the corpse from there.


    The corpse stood still, his face turned toward us. Although his eyes were closed, I felt that he was watching us.


    My imagination started to run wild. <em>Chuyi asked me to wait for him here. The corpse also kept repeating the sentence, wait for me, wait for me...</em>


    <em>It almost seemed as if he was trying to convey Chuyis message. Does that mean that Chuyi is the one controlling the corpse puppet? However, why would he do something like this?</em>


    I panicked at the thought of Chuyi being the person behind all this.


    My mood was all over the ce.<em>What should I do if my theory turns out to be correct? Should I listen to Chuyi, or should I help Ms. Wu?</em>


    Everything had a cause, and Chuyi must have had his reasons to do what he was doing. I decided to wait and ask him when he arrived.


    Ms. Wu had started to get anxious. Whats going on?


    I took a deep breath and said, We shouldnt talk. Lets just wait.


    Not long after, a slender man quickly walked toward us. He seemed to be in a hurry. I narrowed my eyes and saw that it was Chuyi.


    After seeing him, I walked up to him.


    Are you summoning a soul? Chuyi asked as he picked up the Soul Summoning Banner on the ground.


    I nodded and called Ms. Wu.


    Chuyi asked, Is the soul youre looking for inside this puppet?


    I nodded. Are you controlling this corpse?


    Chuyi nodded and then snapped his fingers. The corpse puppet walked up to him like a robot, waiting for his nextmand.


    You should take away the soul and draw a Soul Stabilizing Talisman. Then, stick it to her body. Ill look for youter.


    From his anxious tone, I could feel that the situation was serious.


    I nodded.


    To my surprise, this corpse puppet contained not just one soul but ten. Chuyi asked us to find the soul we were looking for by listening to its voice. Then, he sealed the soul inside the Soul Summoning Banner and asked us to leave.


    Ms. Wu received the Soul Summoning Banner and kept calling her daughters name, Xiaoqing, as we walked back to her apartment.

 Chapter 258: Twenty-Four Red Silk Scarves

    Chapter 258: Twenty-Four Red Silk Scarves


    As soon as we got into the apartment, I asked Ms. Wu to help Xiaoqings body up. I then tied the red rope that was tied over the Soul Summoning Banner to her body. This sent the missing corporeal soul back to her body through the rooster. Afterward, I stuck a Soul Stabilizing Talisman onto her forehead.


    Soon after, Xiaoqing woke up. She looked at us with drowsy eyes. Mom... what happened? I I feel like I had a horrible nightmare.


    Xiaoqing finally recovered, and she looked much more awake than before. Eventually, she regained colors on her face. Ms. Wu burst out crying. She hugged her daughter andforted her.


    Xiaoqing told me she had a strange dream. She saw herself wandering around the neighborhood, unable to find her way home.


    She was anxious and ufortable. Moreover, her body felt very light, as if it could split and disappear at any moment.


    However, all of a sudden, a handsome big brother called her name and grabbed her hand. He told her that he would take her home.


    As soon as she touched him, she felt veryfortable. The feeling of being torn apart also disappeared at that instant. She was finally relieved and followed the handsome man home.


    On the way back, Xiaoqing drifted into sleep. When she woke up, she saw that she was in her room. Everything felt like a dream, and yet, it was so real.


    Ms. Wu hugged her daughter and sobbed. Its all right. Its all right. It was just a bad dream, sweetie.


    I looked through the window and waited for Chuyi.


    Around one hourter, Chuyi finally came. He was exhausted and spiritless; his expression was also tense. I came to open the door for him and guide him in.


    He looked battered, with wounds all over his body. His white hoodie was torn, and there were some blood stains on it.


    I poured him a cup of warm water and gave him some ointment. After a while, Chuyi regained hisposure.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Chuyi, what happened? Who hurt you? And, why did that puppete to the park?


    Chuyi first scanned the room. In the end, his eyes fell onto Xiaoqing. Xiaoqing looked scared when he looked at her. However, I could tell that she liked him a little.


    Since Chuyi had the appearance of an idol, and he was the type high school girls liked the most.


    Chuyi didnt answer me. He took out two talismans from his pocket and asked me to stick them onto the window and the door.


    I did as he asked.


    When I returned, he had already fallen asleep. It seemed he was worn out. I didnt disturb him and found a nket to keep him warm.


    Ms. Wu curiously studied Chuyi. Who is he? He looks skillful.


    I smiled. Hes much more skillful than me. Anyway, you two should rest as well. My friend is really tired, and its best if we do not disturb him.


    Ms. Wu took her daughter back to the bedroom while I sat on the nearby sofa and watched over Chuyi.


    Chuyi slept for two hours. He slowly opened his eyes and found me watching over him; he felt somewhat embarrassed.


    I went over to him. Chuyi, how are your wounds? Do you want to wrap them?


    He shook his head. No, this is a corpse toxin. Ordinary ointment and medicines wont be able to deal with it.


    I was startled. <em>A corpse toxin! If we dont treat it, Chuyi might be a zombie...</em>


    Heforted me. Theres no need to worry. Ive found someone that can help me.


    While I was thinking about who could help us under such a circumstance, my phone rang. I picked it up and saw that it was Senior Shu.


    As soon as the line connected, Senior Shus voice boomed, You little bastard, you finally picked up the phone! Ive been waiting down here for two hours! Why didnt you pick the phone up?!


    I now noticed that there were more than thirty missed calls on my phone. They were all from Senior Shu.


    I felt embarrassed. Senior Shu, Chuyi was sleeping so I set my phone to silent mode. I didnt want to disturb him.


    Senior Shu thundered again. You bastard! Come down here right now and pick me up. Im going to freeze to death!


    I forced a smile then hung up the call. I rushed downstairs to picked Senior Shu up.


    Senior Shu was crouching and shivering in the cold beside a dumpster. After seeing me, he rushed toward and snatched my jacket, putting it on himself. At the same time, he asked me topensate for his mental damage.


    I gave him a bitter smile. There is no time forpensation right now. We have to save Chuyi first.


    Senior Shu shot me a fierce look then followed me upstairs.


    After taking a look at Chuyi, Senior Shu dropped his jaw in shock. Holy crap! Whos strong enough to wound you to this extent?


    Then, he wasted no more time and found an empty bowl to prepare the antidote.


    First, he poured a turbid, yellow liquid into the bowl. Then, he added a ck substance he had crushed into powder beforehand. Next, he added a handful of salt and starch then stirred the mixture. At the same time, he asked me to cook some sticky rice.


    Ms. Wu walked out when she heard themotion. I asked her immediately, Do you have sticky rice in your house?


    When she confirmed that she had it, I asked her to cook some.


    Senior Shu carefully applied and smeared the dough he had stirred on Chuyis wounds.


    I looked carefully and saw a lot of small insects wiggling in the patches of dough. They were as big as ants but looked strange.


    As Senior Shu finished applying the dough, Ms. Wu finished cooking the sticky rice.


    Senior Shu then sprinkled the cooked rice onto the wounds to melt the dough a little bit. Afterward, he exhaled in relief and slumped on the couch. Okay, he just needs to rest for several hours, then hell be all right.


    Chuyi nodded and drifted back into sleep.


    I didnt disturb him but turned to talk to Senior Shu. Whats the substance you used to counter the corpse toxin?


    Senior Shu was still mad at me because I didnt pick up his calls. He threw me a fierce look and barked angrily, Dont know.


    I couldnt help but smile and apologize to him. I also promised him that after this matter was over, I would take him to a nightclub and find him a Russian girl. Senior Shu finally forgave me and decided to enlighten me.


    The turbid liquid he used was ordinary rat piss, while the ck substance was rat feces. The feces werent ordinary as it was the discharge from the rat whose fate was linked to Senior Shus. Also, that rat had eaten corpse flesh right before pooping.


    Everybody knew that rats often ate rotten meat and dead bodies. The rats that ate dead bodies would be infected by the corpse toxin. However, since they had a strong adaptive ability, they could create an immune response and produce immune cells.


    After those immune cells solved the corpse toxin, a part of them would stay in the body while the other part would be discharged through the feces. What Senior Shu had applied on Chuyi wounds was rat feces that contained those immune cells.


    To get those feces, Senior Shu had spent a lot of effort as he first had to find a corpse that had already produced the corpse toxin. He then fed the corpse to the rat and waited to collect the discharge


    After listening to him, I felt nauseous. I was afraid that only Senior Shu could do such disgusting things.


    I couldnt help butugh, though. This kind of stuff really left people speechless.


    After the break of dawn, color had returned to Chuyis face. I went to buy a set of famous-branded clothes for Chuyi to change into after he took a shower. When he put on the new clothes, his charm erupted like a volcano. No one could resist him.


    Not even those famous young idols couldpare to him I could tell that when I saw the mesmerizing looks on Ms. Wu and Xiaoqings faces.


    Senior Shu half-joked, Daoist Priest Chuyi can conquer both the young and the old. He reminds me of myself when I was younger.


    The old man made Ms. Wu and Xiaoqing blush.


    Chuyi seemed to have fully recovered. Even his aloof, cold countenance returned. He checked Xiaoqings condition and looked pensive.


    Chuyi, is Xiaoqing okay now? I asked.


    Chuyi shook his head. Although her soul has returned, theres still strong Yin energy in her body. This Yin energy is strange, and I feel like someone intentionally left it in her body. If we cant get rid of it, Im afraid she will lose her soul againter.


    Ms. Wu was frightened and begged Chuyi, Please, save my daughter!


    Chuyi sighed. Its not only Xiaoqing who has this problem. There are twenty-four virgin boys and girls who are in the same situation.


    I was startled and thought about that man who had bought twenty-four red silk scarves at once. I couldnt be just a coincidence, right?


    Chuyi, do you know the story behind this?


    I have a client who asked me to summon the soul of a student that was about to take the university entrance exam.


    That person was in the same situation as Xiaoqing, and the first thing Chuyi did was call their soul back.


    However, Chuyi used a very special method to call the soul back since he knew that it would be extremely weakened. Even if he used the Soul Summoning Banner and the rooster, which were very gentle to the soul, there was a chance the soul could be damaged.


    He eventually used a Corpse Puppet to summon the soul.


    The Corpse Puppet was the best vessel to store souls as it didnt have any side effects.


    However, while he was summoning the soul back, Chuyi was shocked to find out there was more than one soul wandering around the neighborhood.


    Chuyi decided to contact the Netherworld tomunicate with those wandering souls, and he learned that their stories werent different from his clients. He felt that there was more to this story; maybe it was all part of someones n.


    Of course, he couldnt just stand by and watch them die. He decided to store all the souls he had met on the way into his Corpse Puppet.


    After collecting a total of twenty-four souls into the Corpse Puppet, Chuyi was about to summon it back. However, he felt through puppet that there was a soul attempting to escape through its mouth. It seemed someone was summoning that soul...


    He then established a mental connection with the Corpse Puppet and sensed my aura, confirming that I was summoning a soul in the parkte at night. He knew something was off, so he called me through the Corpse Puppet, telling me not to move.


    After hearing the story, I nodded.


    There were twenty-four wandering souls, and only one of them had returned to its body. This meant that the other twenty-three souls were still in the Corpse Puppet. Would the Corpse Puppet be able to bear them?


    Imagine a wooden barrel with a weight capacity of twenty kilograms bearing a weight of a dozen times its capacity... Would the wooden barrel be able to handle it?

 Chapter 259: The Souls Hitting the Bell

    Chapter 259: The Souls Hitting the Bell


    Chuyiforted me. Dont worry. Ive strengthened the Corpse Puppet with more spells. Its okay.


    After receiving his confirmation, I could ease my mind.


    Chuyis phone rang. He nced at it and told us his client was calling him.


    His client was worried because Chuyi had gone missing for the whole night.


    Rx. Ive found the corporeal soul, so everything is all right. However, I unexpectedly found more than twenty souls with the same condition. I think they should be from around your neighborhood. Can you ask around and see if other kids from your neighborhood are in the same situation?


    His client didnt sound happy to hear this. Im paying you, so you should only worry about my son. You dont need to care about other people. If theyre in trouble, thats fine by me. My son wont have topete against them during the university entrance exam.


    Chuyis voice turned cold. Their parents are worried just like you. You shouldnt be this unkind.


    The client was stubborn. He said that if Chuyi meddled in other peoples business, he wouldnt pay him.


    Was Chuyi the sort of man that would bow for a little bit of money? Of course not! He directly hung up the call.


    His client called him many times after that, but Chuyi kept hanging up.


    The client finally cracked after the tenth call. Left with no choice, he could only agree to Chuyis condition. He sent his people to ask around.


    Not everybody had the power and money that Chuyis client had. Not everyone could invite Chuyi to work for him. Most people could only helplessly watch their children die without being able to do anything.


    Chuyi asked me to tell him about all the clues I had collected until now. I then told him everything in detail.


    I focused on the scarf and that man who had bought twenty-four red silk scarves. He was surely the culprit!


    Chuyi nodded. We must find the person who bought those twenty-four red scarves. And, perhaps the granny whos selling red scarves isnt a nice person, either.


    Since Chuyi suggested that we should see the granny, I agreed and took him to see her.


    We searched the neighborhood several times but couldn''t find her. I went to the security booth to ask, and they told me that they hadnt seen her since yesterday.


    Chuyi frowned. Do you know that woman? Does she live around here?


    The security man shook his head. No, I havent seen her before. A few days ago, she appeared here and sold some red silk scarves. Her business was going really well as she told her customers that the red silk scarves could help the students achieve ideal scores.


    Chuyi raised his brows and asked me, Have you ever touched those red scarves?


    Yes, it happened when I went there yesterday and talked to her. Whats wrong?


    Chuyi immediately lifted his head to study my eyes. I felt worried because I sensed that something was wrong.


    I looked at him. Hey Whats wrong?


    Chuyi stared at my eyes for a while and looked somewhat absent-minded. However, he eventually shook his head. No, its nothing. We should go back now. The first thing we need to do tonight is to return those wandering souls.


    Since Chuyi didnt want to tell me, I thought it wasnt anything big. I didnt pester him and followed him back to Ms. Wus apartment.


    After we got to the apartment, Chuyi started to walk around. It was as if he was searching for something.


    I thought he was searching for the otherworldly item, so I told him, I searched yesterday, and I also asked Ms. Wu. She told me she doesnt have any antiques in the house.


    Chuyi nodded, looking pensive. He didnt continue his search andid on the sofa to recover his strength.


    Xiaoqing walked out of her room. I saw her so I called, Xiaoqing, did you buy a red scarf downstairs?


    Xiaoqing answered, Yes, I did. Many of my ssmates bought one. They said that it could strengthen our focus and ensure that our university entrance exam scores will be high.


    I felt helpless. What was wrong with kids these days? How could they pin all their hopes on some red scarves?


    Xiaoqing, do you know where that red silk scarf is?


    Xiaoqing shook her head. No, I dont know what happened to it. My red scarf disappeared several days ago, and I dont know where it went. Is the red scarf rted to my incident?


    No, its nothing. You dont need to worry about this. Just focus on your uing exam.


    Xiaoqing nodded and stole a nce at Chuyi. It looked as if she wanted to say something but didnt have the courage. In the end, she didnt say anything.


    I knew that she likely wanted to ask for his phone number but was too shy to do so.


    Chuyis charm was truly boundless!


    It was a big loss that Chuyi didnt work in the entertainment industry now that young idols were very popr.


    The night quickly fell. I followed Chuyi and left the apartment.


    Senior Shu had left during the day. Chuyi gave him two medium-level Spirit Talisman for themission. The old man was overjoyed. Next time, if you have any problems, just give me a call!


    I followed Chuyi all the way to the sewer in front of the park.


    He made a hand seal above the sewer and threw a ck talisman into the manhole. Immediately after, we heard somemotion underneath.


    It sounded like someone was hitting against the manhole cover. Chuyi gritted his teeth and shouted, Open!


    The cover shot up into the sky, and a figure emerged immediately after. It was the corpse with thentern.


    The corpse was very dirty; his shroud was stained with rubbish and discharged water from the sewage. He now reeked of a horrible smell.


    His cheeks, which were covered in a white powder, had turned be dark purple. I knew it was a sign that its body was deteriorating. Although Chuyi had already enhanced it with spells, it still couldnt bear the load of that many souls.


    Chuyi took out a bell from his pocket. This corpse wont be able to handle all those souls. I have to take some of them out and seal them inside this bell. Then, well part from here and deliver these lost corporeal souls home.


    I nodded in agreement.


    Chuyi called his client and asked him to send the addresses of all the victims. I jotted down the names and addresses.


    Next, it was time to split the souls. Chuyi and I would half of the souls each.


    Every time he called a name, a shadow flew out of the Corpse Puppets mouth and hit the bell, making it jingle.


    After we had divided the souls, Chuyi and I parted ways. I went to the addresses his client had provided to deliver the souls home.


    All the souls Chuyi had shared with me were in good condition and strong enough. I just needed to show them the way, and they would return to their bodies by themselves.


    As for the weak souls, Chuyi needed to use his power to send them back to their bodies. My magic power was far weaker than his. That was why he needed to personally take care of those weaker souls.


    Most of these souls were of children from normal families. The ces I was heading to were all remote neighborhoods or ghettos.


    These areas were quite chaotic, and there were many wandering ghosts and lone souls. However, since I had the Peach Soul Flower, none of them dared to bother me. It didnt take me a lot of time to bring the souls back home.


    Afterward, I went to the address Chuyi had given me to meet with him.


    However, my phone rang midway. I took it out to check. It was a call from that granny who sold red silk scarves.


    <em>Why did she call me? Did she meet again that man who bought twenty-four red scarves from her?</em>


    I couldnt wait to pick up the phone.


    However, I still remembered Chuyis words, and the woman could be an aplice of that man. Chuyi stared me in the eyes for quite a long time when I told him that Id touched the red silk scarf. Therefore, I had to be careful and couldnt trust the granny blindly.


    I took a deep breath and forced myself to calm down before receiving her call.


    Hey boy! After hearing the old womans hoarse and innocent voice, my heart chilled. You asked me to keep an eye on the man who bought twenty-four scarves, right? I just saw him. Hes having supper across from my house.


    I blurted, Granny, please tell me your address. Ille over immediately.


    Good, Its No. 18 Huangpu Street. Remember to bring the money. You promised that you would pay me if I notified you about the man.


    All right. I agreed then hung up. Right after that, I called Chuyi to ask for his opinion.


    I didnt know what was happening on his end, but he didnt pick up the phone after I had called him three or four times.


    I closed my eyes and pondered. I didnt want to let this important clue slip away. If I lingered here, that man could leave before I arrived.


    I eventually decided to go there alone. I sent Chuyi a brief message to tell him to reach me at No. 18 Huangpu Street and call me as soon as he read the text.


    After sending the message, I impatiently headed toward No. 18 Huangpu Street!

 Chapter 260: Mount Tais Shigandang

    Chapter 260: Mount Tai''s Shigandang


    Huangpu Street was deserted. It was in the suburban area where vendors set up their stalls to do business.


    Since it was around midnight, there were no vendors within sight. Although professional janitors cleaned the ce every day and the streets looked clean, the smell of swill still lingered in the air.


    I walked along Huangpu street to find No. 18. Eventually, I found it at the corner of the street. I walked forward and knocked on the door.


    I knocked for three or four minutes, but no one opened the door.


    <em>Is that granny even home...?</em>My patience was running out, so I directly kicked the door open.


    The moment the door opened, I saw a shadow rush toward me. Then, a beam of light shed in front of me, vanishing right after that.


    <em>Whats happening?!</em> I was startled and backed off.


    However, the light shed in front of me again. Under the dim street light, I was freaked out to see that it was a machete!


    I gawked in shock. If that machete were to hit me, I would die for sure!


    I saw the machete aiming at my forehead, and as I couldnt avoid it in time, I instinctively raised my arms to shield my head, hoping this could save my life.


    Right after, I felt an ice-cold thing touch my arms.


    The machete came with a strong wind, and I was afraid it would directly chop both of my arms off.


    However, as I waited for the de to cut into my flesh, I heard an ear-piercing shrill.


    I was bewildered and lifted my head to see.


    A blue sword had blocked the bloody machete. The blood on its de made it look even scarier.


    The person holding the machete was unexpectedly that granny. Her eyes were bloodshot, and her mouth moved as if she was constantly chanting something.


    I looked to the other side and saw Chuyi holding a blue sword. Luckily, he showed up right on time. Otherwise, I would not have lived long enough to see another day.


    Chuyi snorted, Trying to steal another soul? Youre overestimating yourself!


    He yanked his hand with a lot of force and made the old woman stumble. Then, he moved forward and attacked her with his sword.


    The grannys face turned pale. She screamed and hastily brought the machete to shield herself; she was able to deflect Chuyis sword.


    The granny kept muttering something the entire time. Although I couldnt hear what she was chanting, her low voice seemed to resonate in my head. My head buzzed, just as if thousands of mosquitoes were flying inside it, and my consciousness started to blur.


    Damn it! Chuyis eyes shed with a cold light. He pressed forward with his offensive. This time, the old woman wasnt able to resist his attack. The machete slipped out of her hand andnded on the ground. The long sword was directly ced at the womans throat.


    Still, the granny didnt stop chanting.


    Chuyi was enraged. He directly pushed the sword into the womans mouth. However, he didnt go too deep and used the tip of his sword to open her teeth. That would stop her from incanting her spell.


    As soon as her voice stopped, my mind became clear, and the pain was gone. However, the blurry feeling was still there.


    Block her mouth! Chuyi ordered.


    I knew what was happening. That old woman was using her spells to confuse me. That was why my soul was shaken, and my head became dizzy. I didnt have any bit of strength to resist.


    If she continued to chant her spell, my soul would leave my body.


    I was infuriated. I didnt expect that a harmless-looking granny like her would have such a wicked heart.


    I didnt waste time and got a piece of cloth to block her mouth.


    However, the old woman was really stubborn. She red at me and shook her head harder in an attempt to get rid of the sword.


    Chuyi shouted, Dont move! If you keep wiggling, I will stab you to death!


    Die! The old woman screamed as she jerked her head.


    Chuyi couldnt react in time. He was unable to retract his sword, so the tip of his sword directly pierced through the womans throat, which jutted out of her nape.


    Blood bloomed like a red rose, covering her whole body.


    I gasped, and my hand holding the cloth shivered.


    <em>What did she choose to kill herself instead of telling us the truth?</em>


    Chuyi sighed. He retracted his sword, then wiped the de on the womans clothes. He turned to look at me. Are you okay?


    I nodded and looked at the woman. I still felt shocked. Why did she do that?


    Chuyi shook his head. I dont know.


    All of a sudden, my head buzzed in pain. My body swayed, and I couldnt stand on my feet.


    Chuyi was startled and immediately checked around.


    I quickly took out the Peach Soul Flower and held it in my hands.


    I knew that my soul was unstable, and I felt as if someone was trying to take it away. I didnt think much and activated the Peach Soul Flower. I wanted to use the strong Yang energy of the flower to protect my soul.


    The Peach Soul Flower was very powerful. The moment I activated the flower, I felt my soul be much more stable. However, the buzzing sound in my mind still made my head throb in pain.


    Soon after, Chuyi spotted the culprit and roared angrily, Stop!


    Then, he lifted his sword and dashed after that person.


    I tried to pull myself together to look. I saw a person hiding in the house opposite us. Under the dim light, I could only see a vague figure. Since Chuyi had spotted him, he no longer tried to lure my soul out. Instead, he turned and escaped into the darkness, disappearing from our sight.


    After a while, my soul stabilized. However, I still had a terrible headache. I sat by the grannys dead body and waited for Chuyi to return.


    Chuyi returned not long afterward. From his disappointed face, I knew that he couldnt catch the other party.


    I was still scared and looked at him. These people are really fierce. They can even take the corporeal soul out of a living person


    Chuyi shook his head. Actually, you were already affected by their Soul Seizing Spell. That spell eroded your souls resistance. They just needed to entice your soul a little and your soul would have left your body on its own.


    I was startled. Since when was I affected by that spell?


    Chuyi said, You touched those red scarves, didnt you? Those red scarves carried the spell. When you touched them, the Soul Seizing Spell affected you. I saw it in your eyes.


    I was startled. No wonder he had stared at my eyes back then. He had noticed that the Soul Seizing Spell was affecting my body.


    Chuyi told me, I didnt tell you because I wanted to trace the source and find the person who wanted to take your soul.


    <em>I see. Everything that happened tonight was part of his n...</em>


    We had parted ways to create a chance for the enemy. Then, he didnt pick up the phone on purpose when I called him so as to avoid alerting the other party.


    Chuyi had sneakily followed behind me the entire time, and when the granny showed up and threatened my life, he jumped in.


    It was lucky that I had kicked the door open. If I hadnt done that, the old woman would have had more time to chant the Soul Seizing Spell. If the spell was activated, my soul would have been taken away from my body. At that point, not even Chuyi would have been able to put my soul back into my body without strong side effects. Even if I didnt go crazy, I would have been disabled for life.


    This was no joking matter, and it had been extremely dangerous.


    My heart shivered in fright. At this moment, I really missed Yin Xinyue. I had almost parted from her forever. My heart ached when I imagined her crying every day and mourning my death.


    I regretted bing an otherworldly merchant. This wasnt the kind of life I wanted.


    However, there was no use in regretting things now. If I quit, the heavens would punish me, and that punishment wasnt something I could shoulder. It was also the reason many Daoist priests left society and went to live in the mountains even though they were full of dangers.


    Anyway, the main culprit had now run away. On top of that, we were in trouble with a murder crime


    Although there was a camera somewhere that could help testify that we had defended ourselves, we still killed a person. Even for a self-defense case, we would have to spend a few years in jail if it was deemed that we had used excessive force.


    I wanted to call Fengshen Nana to ask if she had any way to take care of the situation without letting anyone know, but Chuyi had already called a number from his phone.


    It seemed he was talking to a very powerful official. After exchanging several words, he hung up.


    I could hear the man on the other end continuously assure Chuyi that they wouldnt arrest him.


    I had underestimated Chuyi. His circle of connections was much bigger than mine.


    Lets go! Chuyi said as he looked at me.


    I tried to get on my feet and clutched onto my head. The pounding pain in my head made me panic in agony with every step I took.


    Chuyi gave me a pill and asked me to swallow it. I felt much better afterward. Later on, I learned that it was just amon tranquilizer that anyone could buy at any big hospital. It wasnt some sort of magical pill.


    On the way back, I asked Chuyi, What should we do now? Weve alerted the other party, and they will be even more discreet now. Itll be troublesome to find them again.


    Chuyi answered, We just need to wait for them to show themselves. I know what to do next.


    I was startled. Do you already have a solution?


    He halted and looked around. You recently visited this ce, right?


    I nodded. Yeah, I delivered one of the souls to a family nearby. Its that house over there.


    Chuyi nodded and took me to that ce.


    Eventually, we reached the south-west corner of the house, and Chuyi showed me a stone tablet on the wall.


    The stone tablet had a row of words that read, Mount Tais Shigandang. [1]


    Chuyi said, Do you see it? This is the problem.


    The words inscribed on the stone tablet werent anything special. It was some sort of custom in China.


    ording to the legends, Shigandang was a powerful mountain god that lived on Mount Tai. It hated evil spirits as if they were its archenemies.


    As such, people believed that if they put a stone tablet with the words Mount Tais Shigandang carved on it on their walls, their houses would be protected from evil spirits. Many viges had this sort of stone tablet at home, and the government had listed it as one of their important cultural heritages.


    However, I couldnt understand how a little stone tablet could create such a big mess...


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shigandang

 Chapter 261: The Beautiful Female Corpse

    Chapter 261: The Beautiful Female Corpse


    Chuyi said, While I was chasing after that person, I saw these words embroidered on their back. Also, Ive noticed that my clients house, Ms. Wus apartment, and even that grannys house all had a stone tablet with the words Mount Tais Shigandang engrave on it. I dont think this is just a coincidence.


    His analysis was logical. In this modern society, especially in the cities, those stone tablets were rare. Since he had noticed many of them in the same neighborhood, it was definitely abnormal.


    If I wasnt wrong, this sort of stone tablet would be present in the houses of the other victims as well.


    I had visited a few families in this neighborhood while delivering the missing souls, so I took Chuyi to those families to check. My guess turned out to be correct, and all of the families had a Shigandang stone tablet!


    I was puzzled. Mount Tais Shigandang was a mountain god that hated ghosts and monsters. Howe it became something so harmful to people?


    Chuyi didnt talk much and just asked me to take him to Ms. Wus apartment.


    When we got there, I asked Ms. Wu, Do you have a Shigandang stone tablet in your house?


    Ms. Wu nodded. Yes, we have one. When we bought this house, the stone tablet was already here. Many families in this neighborhood have the same tablet on the outer wall.


    Chuyi and I climbed out of the window to check. Indeed, not only did Ms.Wus house have it, but many apartments in this building also had the same stone tablet.


    <em>Thats strange... If so many households have this stone tablet, why did bad things only happen to Ms. Wus family?</em>


    Chuyi thought for a while and said, I see!


    I was sure that he had found the secret behind the stone tablet. I asked, What happened?


    He told me, Look at the upper right corner of this stone tablet.


    I studied it and found a small crack at the upper right corner of the stone tablet. It seemed as if the stone tablet was somehow split open.


    Chuyi used a pair of scissors and carefully pinched something. He then drew a piece of broken rock out of the crack.


    He asked me to find a magnifying ss to check this piece of rock. It turned out that it wasnt a rock but just a lump of dried mud that had been cooked until its color became the same as the stone tablets. Without a closer look, it would have been hard to tell the difference.


    Chuyi said, The stone tablet is supposed to repel ghosts and monsters. But if its not intact, it will be an ominous item. Moreover, different missing parts will bring people different misfortunes.


    For example, if its missing the upper right corner, it will bring misfortune to the children of the family. In particr, their careers wont be smooth. Xiaoqings going to take her university entrance exam soon, which is considered a step of her career. I think theres someone who doesn''t want those twenty-four senior high school students to ace their exam!


    I felt ufortable when I heard that. Who was the despicable person that wanted to destroy the future of twenty-four high school students? What kind of grudge did they have?


    Chuyi no longer spoke. He directly used the pair of scissors to pry the entire stone tablet out of the wall. He covered the hole with a cloth and carefully ced the stone tablet on the tea table, asking Ms. Wu to keep an eye on it. He instructed that no one touch it while he went out to prepare a few things.


    Ms. Wu was frightened. Whats the deal with this stone tablet? Most of the families in this neighborhood have simr tablets in their houses. Why did bad things only happen to my house?


    Chuyi didnt exin in detail. This stone tablet is missing a corner, so its power is reduced. The evil spirits dont dare to visit the other houses but yours is a different deal since the protection is weakened.


    Ms. Wu was even more sacred. She had started to doubt that all of the corners in her house were a possible hiding ce for evil things. She insisted that she didnt want to stay in the house alone.


    Chuyi tried to talk her out of it, but she didnt listen. She insisted on going with us to get the things we needed.


    Chuyi had to give her two talismans and asked her to stick them on her window and main door. He told her that his talismans were even stronger than the stone tablet, so evil things wouldnt dare to get into her house.


    Ms. Wu finally calmed down.


    When we left her apartment, the hazy sun was rising. I guessed it was around five or six oclock. What do we need to prepare? How about we wait until it gets lighter? After all, we arent going to use those items during daylight.


    He answered, Were going to get some corpse wax. Its only during this time of day that corpses can produce wax.


    Corpse wax? I couldnt help but shiver. Why do we need corpse wax?


    The so-called corpse wax was the fat found inside a dead body. Due to the heat, it would melt and seep out of the skin, creating ayer of wax-like substance on the corpses skin. Just hearing how it was produced could tell one that it was nothing good. The only function of this substance was to attract evil ghosts and spirits; it had no other uses. Why would Chuyi want to collect it?


    I felt curious and asked him about it. However, he just said that there was something he needed to use it for. I wasnt in the mood to pester him further, so I let it go.


    In the end, Chuyi brought me to a graveyard full of unmarked graves. We circled around the graveyard and found a grave that looked new. From the color of the dirt on the grave, we guessed it wasnt older than three days.


    Three days was the prime time for a corpse to produce corpse wax!


    Unearthing someones grave was a wicked act. To reduce our sins and sense of guilt, Chuyi burned some joss sticks and money paper tofort and please the deceased person. After the other party agreed, we started to dig up the grave.


    We soon reached the coffin, which looked old, shabby, and thin. I guessed it was one of the cheapest ones.


    Most of the people buried here didnt have enough money to buy a slot in a proper cemetery or hold a cremation. It wasnt strange that they were buried in cheap coffins.


    However, when I opened up the coffin and saw the person inside, I was baffled.


    Laying inside the coffin was a beautiful, flower-like youngdy with precious gold and silver essories. Although she had been dead for around three days, her appearance didnt change much. She looked pale but peaceful. If her belly wasnt swelling up because of gas, we would have thought that she was just sleeping.


    At first nce, I knew that she was from a wealthy family. How did she die at such a young age, and why was she buried in a ce like this?


    All of a sudden, I remembered a current missing case in my city. A cement factory owners daughter was kidnapped and had gone missing for days Was this youngdy the missing person?


    I pitied her. She was young and beautiful but was now gone forever. I saw her photos from when she was still alive. She was much more beautiful than many famous actresses.


    Hurry up! Chuyi urged, Help me lift her up. I need to scrape off the corpse wax.


    I sighed and apologized to the girl in my heart.


    I helped Chuyi lift her up. Then, he asked me to undress her upper body.


    I was depressed. spheming the dead was what I hated the most. I had never thought that I would have to do it one day.


    After I was told to do it, I quickly took off the garments on her upper body.


    Her skin didnt glow anymore, and it looked pale. However, her curves were still attractive.


    I secretly cursed myself. How could I be in the mood to admire a dead body?!


    Chuyi and I carefully used a dagger to scrape the corpse wax on her body, which we then stored in a small stic bag. Shortly after, we had collected enough to fill a pouch.


    Then, I dressed her up and put her back in her coffin. I closed the lid and buried her one more time.


    Although the sun was high in the sky, this ce was shrouded in a hazyyer of Yin energy. We couldnt see our surroundings clearly.


    As we left, I felt as if someone was quietly weeping behind me. When I turned my head to check, I was so scared that my scalp went numb.


    A young woman was on her knees by the grave we had just unearthed. She was wearing luxurious clothes and crying mournfully. Ayer of ck mist surrounded her.


    She was thedy in the coffin!


    I shivered in fear.


    Chuyi turned to me and exined, Ive released her soul. I had an agreement with her that I could collect the corpse wax on her body. In return, I had to release her soul so that she could take revenge on her murderer


    I knew someone was out of luck!

 Chapter 262: Mount Tais Spirit

    Chapter 262: Mount Tai''s Spirit


    When we returned, we saw Ms. Wu curled up on the couch. She was staring at the stone tablet without blinking.


    I asked her, Did anyonee?


    Just now, a man knocked on my door. I looked through the peephole and saw that he was a stranger.


    Since we had warned her earlier, she didnt open the door. However, the man didnt want to leave, and Ms. Wu had to call the apartments security to drive him away.


    Well done, Ms. Wu. If you had opened the door, we cant even imagine what might have happened.


    Ms. Wu went to the kitchen to get some food for us while Chuyi took out the corpse wax we had collected. He told me to find some sheets of thick paper. He then rolled them into tubes in the size of candles and started to stuff the corpse wax into the tubes with his bare hands.


    Soon after, he had created six candles made of corpse wax.


    At the same time, Ms. Wu brought us breakfast, which consisted of hot dogs and hamburgers.


    The hotdogs were the same shape and color as the corpse wax candles... I lost my appetite after looking at the food.


    Earlier, I went to the washroom to wash my hands, but the corpses smell still lingered. It made me feel nauseous.


    Anyway, we decided to wait until nighttime. Chuyis n was to wait for the other party toe to us.


    The culprit had made use of the stone tablets, and as long as we threatened the spirit inside the tablet, it would backfire on its user. Once the culprits life was in danger, they would have no choice but toe to us and beg for mercy.


    While we were waiting, we got news that a waste transfer station not far from the school district was burned down. The thick smoke rolled up and even expanded to our apartment building. The air was now filled with a burning smell.


    Later on, a building guard told us that the horrible fire had burned four or five staff members who worked in the waste transfer station.


    Coincidently, the police found some essories that belonged to the cement factory owners daughter, the girl who had gone missing several days ago, in that ce. The big fire had helped the police discover some clues rted to a kidnapping case. That was surely interesting!


    Only Chuyi and I knew that the mysterious me was ignited by the youngdys ghost. Those people wouldnte clean even after their deaths.


    I vaguely saw a girl hover inside the thick smoke. She smiled at me then disappeared into the rolls of smoke. Before she disappeared, she bowed to bid us farewell.


    Chuyi, do heaven and hell exist? That girl has killed some people, so will she go to heaven or be damned to hell?


    Chuyi sighed with emotion, Only God knows the answer.


    The night quickly came. Chuyi asked Ms. Wu and Xiaoqing to stay in the bedroom. They were instructed not to leave the room, no matter what happened.


    Chuyi put a big rock on the stone tablet and lit up four corpse wax candles around it. He then ced a wok above the rock and turned off the lights in the living room; only a small nightmp was left lit.


    The small nightmp released a weak light that allowed us to vaguely see the big ck wok.


    Chuyi stood by the wok. He reached out one of his hands and ced it on it. Then, he began muttering something.


    I held the Sirius Whip and waited next to him. As soon as the ck wok became too troublesome for Chuyi to manage, I would assist him.


    This time, our opponent was definitely strong. Otherwise, Chuyi wouldnt have been hurt earlier.


    The atmosphere in the room was tense. The closed space was now filled with the smell of corpse wax, and I felt very anxious.


    At first, only Chuyis mumbling filled the room. Soon after, strange things started happening. We heard a nging noise, which was created by the big wok. It was vibrating and hitting the ss tea tray.


    I stared at it with rapt attention.


    The big wok shook harder and harder. It felt as if someone had grabbed it and was shaking it like crazy. The light from the corpse wax candle pierced through the slit of the wok, which allowed me to see a shadow. The shadow walked back and forth in the ck pot.


    Chuyis hand shook as the wok vibrated, and cold sweat rolled down his forehead.


    Come help me. Since the wok was shaking harder and harder, Chuyi had to use all of his strength to keep it in ce. Green veins had appeared on his face. I knew he couldnt resist for a long time.


    I rushed toward him and ced both of my hands on the wok.


    The moment my hands touched the wok, I felt an intimidating forceing from it. The power from the wok was like a shock of one hundred thousand volts; it ran through my arms and numbed me.


    At the same time, I could feel my soul trying to escape my body again. I couldnt hold it in. My head buzzed, and I had a terrible headache.


    This wok didnt only bring physical harm, but it also attacked ones soul!


    I could only bite the tip of my tongue and spit blood onto my palms in an attempt to ease the attack. However, it didnt do much. I had to coil the Sirius Whip around my neck and hold the handle in my mouth to weaken the effects of the mental attack.


    Yet, I was still too weak. Although I was supported by the Sirius Whip and the tongue blood, my strength was quickly draining. I was afraid that I wouldnt be able to hold it for much longer.


    Chuyi looked pale and exhausted; he couldnt even open his eyes. It did not look like he could stand it for much longer.


    The moment I couldnt put up with it anymore, Chuyi roared, Break!


    Then, the ck wok broke as if it was a rice cracker.


    As soon as the wok broke, I saw a dark shadow flee from it, heading toward a corner.


    The corpse wax candles stopped burning, and the noisy room quickly quieted down. The only sounds remaining were the sounds of our heavy breathing.


    Despite having a head-splitting headache, I redirected my focus to the general direction of the shadow.


    The curled up shadow slowly stretched. Seeing the scene, I was somewhat startled.


    It had a humanoid form, but its size was several times bigger than a normal person. Its head touched the ceiling, and its feet stomped on the ground as it stared at us with its red eyes.


    I took a deep breath. <em>What the heck is that? How could this thing be so tall?</em>


    I held the Sirius Whip and knew that I couldnt dodge this battle. I raised the whip and prepared myself for a deadly fight.


    However, Chuyi stopped me. He sat down cross-legged and started mumbling something.


    The giant shadow also muttered something, which produced a series of strange sounds. I heard a hoarse and rough sound, like an animals roaring.


    After a long moment, Chuyi opened his eyes. He asked me to take down the talisman at the entrance and open the door.


    I was startled. <em>Chuyi wants to release this spirit?</em>


    Chuyi gestured at me and asked me to do as he said.


    Reluctantly, I ran to take off the talisman and opened the door.


    The shadow immediately stormed out. It left with a strong gust of cold wind, disappearing in the corridor shortly after that.


    Chuyi immediately took out apass and called out, Lets go after it!


    Then, he bolted out.


    I stormed into Ms. Wus room and yelled, Close your door carefully and stick the talisman back on. Do not get out of your house!


    Afterward, I dashed away and followed Chuyi.


    When I caught up to him, I asked, Chuyi, why did you release that spirit?


    Thats Mount Tais spirit. Without the suppression of the stone tablet, you and I arent its match. It was forcefully sealed inside that tablet, and now that its free, it will definitely retaliate against the person that sealed it. If we follow it, we will be able to find that person.


    I nodded and followed him out of the apartment building.


    Thepass guided us to a remote, small forest behind the building. Not long after we stepped into the forest, we saw a red halo. We then heard a bestial roar and a human scream.


    If I wasnt wrong, the culprit was there. My guess was that the spirit was attacking him.


    Chuyi put hispass away and took me toward the area. We stormed forward.


    When we came near, we saw a young man wrestle against a giant shadow. Although he tried his best, he was forced to retreat again and again. He couldnt put up with the attacks any longer.


    The spirit was very powerful, and there was no way an ordinary sorcerer like him could resist it. Shortly after, the young man was pressed on the ground.


    The spirit was like a ferocious tiger and used its body to crush the man. Even though the young man didnt have any visible wounds, his consciousness gradually weakened, and his body started twitching.


    I knew that the spirit was about to drag his soul out of his body.


    In the end, the young man couldnt endure it and raised his voice. He called out for help.


    Chuyi didnt say anything and jumped out of the woods.

 Chapter 263: A Heart That Chases After Dreams

    Chapter 263: A Heart That Chases After Dreams


    Throw the stone tablet here! When the young man saw Chuyi, he was both thrilled and scared.


    Chuyi picked up a stone tablet that had the words Mount Tais Shigandang engraved on it and used it to pound the shadow.


    The shadow became more hostile. It attacked harder and faster. Apparently, it was afraid of the stone tablet.


    I saw two more stone tablets on the ground. I picked them up and helped Chuyi attack the shadow.


    Shortly after, we had pounded the shadow until it dimmed out.


    However, it didnt stop attacking.


    Left with no choice, Chuyi bit his middle finger and used his blood to draw a ghost-sealing spell on the stone tablet he was holding. With a precise throw, he hit the shadow, sucking it into the stone tablet.


    He then hurried to take a red scarf from the young man andshed it around the stone.


    The young man powerlesslyy on the ground, gasping for breath.


    Just now, his soul had almost been drawn out by the spirit. Filled with rage, I grabbed him and pped him twice. You bastard! Do you know how many high school students youve impacted? You almost destroyed their futures!


    The young man was dumbstruck. He looked at me for a second then burst into tears.


    Speak. His crying annoyed me, so I pped him one more time. However, I wasnt satisfied yet.


    Chuyi walked up to us and asked coldly, Why did you do that?


    Because I hate them! the young man pitched his voice and shouted. Im the same as them, but howe I dont receive any special treatment? Why do people give them more consideration?


    The young man clutched his head and wept loudly, looking desperate. He was a depressed young man who hated society.


    I couldnt hold in myughter. He was like a thug who had learned powerful martial arts. This fellow had actually used a scary ghost to torment people for such a trivial reason...


    After the young man got a hold of himself and calmed down, he told us his story.


    He used to be a senior high school student, but he eventually failed his university entrance exam by just three points. He didnt get the chance to enter a university and had to work as a construction worker who moved bricks every day.


    Also, some of his peers who had lower scores had passed. When he checked the university exam results, he knew that their results in the graduation exam were much lower than his. However, since they were favored by some national policies, they had earned extra points that were added to their final results. That was why they had passed.


    The young man was angry. Why did they receive extra points? Because they were from some ethnic minority or their fathers had special jobs?


    Why could they enjoy their life in a university while he had to move bricks at the construction site? His efforts during his time in high school were now repaid with thisborious job!


    He couldnt let it go. He wanted to take revenge on them.


    The people he chose for his retaliating n were the senior high school students who would receive extra points for the university entrance exam. Of course, that wasnt the only reason. Another reason was that those people had some Mount Tais Shigandang in their homes.


    This ce had be a mass grave when the Japanese army invaded China. Afterward, when investors started to exploit this ce, they were worried that strange phenomena would follow. That was why they installed a lot of Mount Tais Shigandang in the apartments here.


    Those stone tablets coincidently aided with this young mans n.


    Since he knew some esoteric arts, he was aware that it was possible to anger the spirit within the stone tablets by removing a corner and using some special fabric scarves. He then made use of this wicked technique to curse the homes of those senior high school students.


    The spirit could swallow both ethereal souls and corporeal souls. When that happened, those students whose souls were missing wouldnt be able to focus on their studies, which would satisfy this young mans desire for revenge.


    However, he didnt expect that his wless n would be busted and that he would almost lose his soul.


    After talking to us, he cried and then clutched his head. Heined about social injustice.


    I kept silent.


    I didnt know how to assess this young mans deeds.


    I didnt know if the policy of giving extra points to some specific students during the university entrance exam was fair or not. Perhaps the person who established this policy wanted to make more room for the rich kids.


    However, the way this young man retaliated against society was too extreme.


    I know that my approach is selfish, but I couldnt swallow this grudge! There are a lot of students in this country that see entering university as a chance to change their lives. But because of this adding points policy, many of them failed the exam. In such an exam, having one extra point can change everything. Those young people will likely regret this failure for their whole lives.


    I looked at Chuyi. It seemed he was touched, but he didnt know what to say. He just watched the young man cry.


    All right, all right. I was so annoyed by hisining that thepassion I had for him was gone.


    You are a grown man, stopining. There are a lot of unfair things in this world, and its thanks to this injustice that there is so muchpetition. After all, arent we born topete?


    Withoutpetitions, there would be no advancement. Rather than crying like a baby, why dont you try harder and take the university entrance exam next year? As long as you study hard, Im sure you will seed.


    I know that, but I couldnt swallow this grudge! The young man still sounded mad.


    I didnt have the strength to talk nonsense with him, so I snapped at him, Do you think I wont dare to beat you up to death? My family has only done small business since three generations, but do you see me hating society? No, you dont! Youin nonstop, but you should take a good look at yourself first. Even if you can pass the entrance exam, how can youpete against the harsherpetitors youll meetter in life?


    I was surprised by my own words. <em>Did I just give a good pep talk?</em>


    After hearing my words, the young man was startled.


    I casually said, All right, tell me what you want to do next. If you insist on taking revenge on society, I have enough methods to put you in jail for the rest of your life. Keeping around a person with strong hostility toward society could lead to a disaster!


    He kept silent for quite a long time. Eventually, he sighed. All right, Im convinced. However, my poor mother She endured hardship for her whole life, but she died with heartache after I failed the exam. Is there even a reason for me to keep on living?


    Ill help her ascend, Chuyi said. You should join this year''s university entrance exam. Even if you dont seed at the first try, you should keep studying. People from different backgrounds have different difficulties. It will surely affect them in some way.


    Then, before leaving, Chuyi coldly said, You better behave yourself!


    When we returned to Ms. Wus apartment, Ms. Wu asked us, Is it over?


    Everythings okay now. There will be no more problems, I answered.


    Ms. Wu hurried to ask, Who harmed us? Were just a single mom and a poor daughter!


    I didnt tell her about the young man but asked her about her familys origin.


    Ms. Wu was of Miao ethnicity, and it hadnt been easy for her to study and settle in this big city from her remote vige. Since Ms. Wu was from a ethnic minority, Xiaoqing could receive some extra points on her entrance exam.


    Then, I asked Ms. Wu about her daughter. Her daughter was always a top student, and she wasnt worried about her entrance exams result at all. Ms. Wu didnt really care about the extra points. To her, it was more important than her daughter made an effort towards her learning. If Ms. Wu had counted on the extra points she could receive from the governments policy, she would have stayed in the Miao area and kept her face nted in the paddies. She would have never been able to stay in a high-end apartment in a neighborhood like this.


    I sighed with emotion after I listened to her story.


    Society was cruel, and every day, the bloody survival of the fittest yed out in every corner of the city.


    Knowledge alone wasnt enough, and one needed mental fortitude as well!


    For a man whoined about social injustices every day, even if he could enter university, what future could he build? He would only watch other people seed while silently crying himself to sleep!

 Chapter 264: The Bridge of Helplessness

    Chapter 264: The Bridge of Helplessness


    The next business case I encountered wasnt the scariest one but definitely the one that left the deepest impression on me.


    The reason was that the otherworldly item I had to confront this time was rted to my grandfather!


    It was around three months after thest case. I remembered that Li Meng had just started his summer vacation, and the weather was very hot. I didnt feel like going out, so I stayed in my air-conditioned shop all day.


    It was so hot outside that even the cement floor in my shop was burning hot.


    At around noon, when Yin Xinyue was about to go to work, she put an egg outside and asked me to check how long it would take for it to cook under the sun. Since I was so bored, I agreed.


    I had to hand it myself for being able to stare at an egg for around ten minutes... Anyway, it took around fifteen minutes for the egg to cook.


    I considered whether I should bring some pepper and spices along with me whenever I went out. If I ever felt like roasting a piece of meat on the road, I could have a Korean BBQ right on the spot


    Whenever Li Mazi was free, he would Li Meng to my shop to enjoy the air-conditioned room. I was a little bewildered, though. Li Mazi should have a good portion of savings by now, so why was he this stingy? Later on, I learned that he manly came to my shop to let his son use the Inte.


    Why didnt you install broadband in your house? I asked.


    Li Mazi answered with a grimace, Theyre afraid of the hot weather. They dont want toe as it would require them to climb on a burning hot electric pole.


    Anyway, it was boring to stay in the shop alone. Since Li Mazi was here, he could y cards or chat with me.


    On the third day of Li Mengs summer vacation, Li Mazi and Li Meng came to my shop as usual. I was ying cards with Li Mazi while Li Meng was ying League of Legends when someone banged on my shop door.


    I asked Li Mazi to open the door, and a sweaty uncle wearing a set of white mourning clothes appeared before us. As soon as the door opened, he screamed, Save me!


    I had a headache. I would burn to death if I went out to deal with an otherworldly item now. However, although I felt helpless, I couldnt reject him since he hade all the way to my door. I invited him inside.


    From the way he dressed, his tanned skin, and his rough palms, I guessed he was a farmer.


    He looked really anxious, and I wondered if it was the hot weather or if he was just scared.


    Grandmaster, pleasee with me! As soon as he stepped into the shop, he started begging Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi pointed at me. Im not the owner of this ce; I just run errands for him. He is the grandmaster youre looking for.


    The uncle smiled awkwardly then turned to me. Grandmaster, please help me!


    I opened a can of cold Sprite and gave it to him. What happened? Here, drink this and tell me slowly.


    The uncle said worriedly, You shoulde with me and see for yourself! My mother recently passed away, but we couldnt bury her no matter how hard weve tried. I think I might have an otherworldly item in my house!


    Hmm? I frowned and said, What do you mean when you say that you cant bury her?


    The uncle said helplessly, My mother had a long life but she was also a very difficult person. This time, she had a quarrel with a neighbor for trivial reasons and died of anger. I think she isnt willing to be buried like this. Weve tried everything, but we couldnt lower her coffin. Moreover, the strange thing is that


    The uncle suddenly stopped and didnt continue talking. His face was filled with fear. I guessed he had just recalled a terrifying event.


    Say it. Li Mazi urged, What happened?


    The uncle looked up at me and said, Grandmaster, pleasee with me. Theres something I cant say aloud. Please dont force me


    <em>Whats wrong with this man?</em> I gave a wry smile. If you dont exin things clearly, how am I supposed to help you?


    The uncle gritted his teeth, thought for a while, then said, All right, Ill tell you the truth. Our vige has a custom, and ording to this custom, only after crossing the Bridge of Helplessness and fulfilling the wishes of the deceased can we bury them.


    Wait a minute, the Bridge of Helplessness? Li Mazi interjected.


    The uncle exined, Its not the Bridge of Helplessness you are thinking about. Its a bridge in our vige, and every time we hold a funeral, we have to cross that bridge. Thats why we call it the Bridge of Helplessness.


    The uncle continued, During my mothers funeral, we carried the coffin across the Bridge of Helplessness. However, every time we reached the middle of the bridge, our legs felt like jelly. Some people even had cramps, so we werent able to cross the bridge.


    I forced myself to move forward, but I started hearing my mother crying under the bridge. She cried very pitifully and scolded me for being unfilial. She said that I had let someone take her mansion.


    My mother must have had her reasons for telling me that. As such, Im sure she wont be able to rest in peace if we bury her forcefully. Thats why Ivee to you. I need your help


    I contemted then looked at the uncle. Uncle, theres something you havent told us yet. You said there was something strange earlier. What was it?


    The uncle shivered. It seemed he didnt want to tell me the truth.


    I kept pushing him. Eventually, he gave up. He gulped down the Sprite then started to tell us.


    What happened on the bridge was very unusual and left him worried.


    He tried hard to understand what his mother meant when she told him that someone had taken her mansion.


    He was sure that the mansion she mentioned wasnt the house she had lived in when she was alive. It could be her house in the other world or her grave.


    The uncle put the funeral on hold and carried two brave young men with him as he went to check the grave they had prepared for his mother.


    When they arrived at the scene, the uncle gawked in shock.


    A coffin was under the plot ofnd theyd dug up!


    The coffin was old and tattered, and theyer of paint on it had peeled off in some spots. There was still fresh dirt on the coffin, and it felt as if it had just been dug up.


    The uncle was angry and immediately summoned the workers in charge of digging graves. When they saw the old coffin, they were all confused and argued that when they dug up the dirt, they didnt see any coffin there.


    The uncle knew this wasnt normal. His mother said that someone had upied her mansion. She was probably talking about that coffin!

 Chapter 265: Message in the Dream

    Chapter 265: Message in the Dream


    The uncle didnt think too much of it and ordered the workers to lift up the coffin and move it aside.


    Someone suggested, Uncle, we should open the coffin first and check whos inside. If its a zombie, wed better burn the whole thing.


    ording to a legend in their vige, zombies that were about to develop intelligence could move their coffins. They would move them to auspicious ces and absorb the luck there to elerate their growth.


    Moreover, if a zombie did manage to develop intelligence, it would absorb the luck of the descendants of whoever lived there. That family would never live in peace; they would be poor forever.


    The uncle had children, so he had to consider things carefully. After weighing the pros and cons, he decided to take risks and open the coffin.


    After they opened the coffin, the scene inside made the group of people gawk.


    A stunning womany inside the coffin. She was beautiful and had a thinyer of makeup on her face. She peacefullyy there, with her wless body naked. From her fair skin, she had to be a city girl. Also, she seemed to have died just recently


    If she wasnt in a coffin, the uncle would have thought that she was merely sleeping.


    Everybody was scared and concluded that the woman was a lustful zombie that was about to be sentient. They told the uncle that he should burn the corpse; they couldnt simply ignore it.


    The uncle also knew that he had to deal with this matter. He asked people to find dry wood. The goal was to burn the beautiful corpse to ashes.


    After seeing the mes engulf the corpse, the uncle exhaled in relief and thought that everything would be okay.


    However, his son suddenly rushed toward them from the vige. After seeing that they were burning the corpse, he panicked. He told his father to stop and jumped into the fire, carrying the corpse out of the sea of mes.


    However, that short moment was enough to set his hair on fire and burn his clothes. He hastily threw the corpse aside and rolled on the ground to put out the mes.


    The female corpse was still wless even though she had been in the fire for two whole minutes. Her skin was still snow-white, and not even a strand of hair was burned.


    The strange event scared the people there. They concluded that the zombie had be sentient since the mes couldnt burn it.


    The uncle was furious and stormed toward his son. Why are you here? Why did you take the body out?!


    The young man ignored his wounds and said, We cant burn it. Grandma said we cant burn it.


    What? The uncle had goosebumps on his skin. His sons grandma was none other than his mother.


    His mother was gone, so how could she tell his son not to burn the corpse?


    While I was watching the coffin, I heard a knocking sounde from within, the son said while panting. The rtives who were joining the wake with me were scared and ran away. However, I felt bad for grandma and thought that she had somest words that she wasnt able to say before she died. Thats why I opened the lid of the coffin. As soon as I moved the lid, grandma sat up. She was drooling from the corners of her mouth and her eyes didnt have pupils; she looked very scary. Then, she looked at me straight in the face and called my name.


    He continued, She almost screamed at my face. You shouldnt burn her! No matter what, you cant burn her! She wants to eat me! You filthy animals, youre not filial! After scolding, sheid back down. However, she looked like she was in pain.


    The son didnt know what his grandmother meant, but she must have had her reasons to say those words. The young man rushed out of the vige and saw that his father was burning something. He concluded that his grandmother was talking about that, so he hurried to take the corpse out of the fire.


    The uncle gawked in shock.<em>Did my mothers corpsee back to life?</em>


    When he returned with the men, he was frightened to see a crowd of people in his courtyard. They were pointing and talking. He squeezed through the crowd and saw his mother lying in the courtyard.


    It was very hot, and his mothers body had started to swell under the scorching sun. Some parts were dposing already; it was a horrible scene.


    Leaving ate persons remains under direct sunlight was an offensive act toward that person. The uncle felt a great heartache and almost fainted on the spot. He hurried to ask people to bring the corpse back to the coffin.


    Then, he angrily shouted, Who took my mother out of her coffin?!


    One of the rtives who had joined the wake answered, She crawled out of the coffin herself. Luckily for us, we were fast enough to escape. Otherwise, granny would have grabbed us and eaten us all. You see, she ate all the food that was offered on the altar.


    The uncle turned to look at the altar and saw that the food on the tray was eaten. There were also pieces of food in his mothers mouth.


    The uncle was stunned. He knew that this wasnt something he could deal with. The naked zombie and his mothers corpse were too much for him. The only thing he could do now was to invite an expert to help.


    Then, yesterday evening, his mother came to him in his dreams. In the dream, she told him to find me at my antique shop. ording to her words, I was in the business of otherworldly items trading and could solve this case. He was instructed to tell me that he had an otherworldly item wreaking havoc in his house.


    After the uncle woke up, he kept thinking about his dream. Although he thought it was just a dream, since he was desperate, he followed his mothers instructions and asked around about me.


    His mothers words turned out to be true as both my name and the address of my shop were correct!


    Anyway, it took him a whole night to rush to my shop, so he had no idea if anything had happened in his house during the night.


    I had goosebumps on my skin as I listened to him. I had never heard of a simr situation before. Why would a naked female corpse lie in someones grave?


    Even if someone wanted to steal the luck from another familysnd, they wouldnt do it so openly. This wasnt a simple case.


    Li Mazi was a little frightened. He looked at my puzzled face and knew that it might be too much for us. He said, Im sorry, but I dont think we can handle this. You should look for someone more qualified.


    However, the uncle got on his knees. Grandmaster, you cant just watch someone die and not help! Myte mother told me to find you; it means you can handle this. Its destiny, Grandmaster. Please save us!


    At that time, my head was filled with the content of that grandmas message. I thought of two possibilities.


    The first possibility was that this man was talking nonsense. I didnt know his mother, but his mother somehow knew me. Still Since she was dead, her soul wouldnt contain her full memories. How could she remember me so well?


    The second possibility was that someone, possibly my enemy, had controlled her soul and sent this uncle a message in his dreams. That person then asked him toe here to find me.


    The second possibility made more sense. If that was the case, the death of that grandma could be rted to my enemy, and this was a trap that they had set up beforehand. They were only waiting for me to fall into it.


    Chills ran down my spine. I didnt want to ept this case. However, no matter what we said, the uncle kept kneeling.


    I was a man with a soft heart, and the uncle in front of us was an elder. Since he was bowing to me, it would be disrespectful of me to reject him.


    The more I thought about it, the more helpless I became. Eventually, I gritted my teeth and said, All right, Ill go there and see. But Im not sure if I can solve this case!

 Chapter 266: Children Crying at Midnight

    Chapter 266: Children Crying at Midnight


    The uncle said hastily, Okay, okay, Ill listen to you.


    I nodded. All right, lets go to check.


    On one hand, I wanted to go there to see if we could help them solve this case. On the other hand, I wanted to see if the uncle was telling the truth about his mother sending him a message in his dream.


    I was really skeptical, though. How could a ghost tell someone the address of my antique shop through a dream?


    We rode on busses for the whole day and had to switch vehicles several times. When it was nighttime, we reached a town near the uncles vige.


    As soon as we arrived at the vige, the uncle called his family to send a tractor to pick us up. We then spent two or three hours on the bumpy path until we reached the uncles remote vige.


    It was 10 PM and the vige had a gloomy and quiet atmosphere. Cicadas sang from time to time, joined with the cries from frogs. I guessed ake was nearby because we heard the sounds of fish jumping and plopping. Although the wind blew through the mountain, it was still zing hot.


    Almost all the vigers were sleeping. Only one house had lights on, where a babys cries could be heard.


    The uncle said, Thats my house. Mr. Zhang, Mr. Li, pleasee in!


    As soon as we reached the house, a thick flow of Yin energy blew in my face. I couldnt help but take in a deep breath. This flow of Yin energy was too strong; it chilled me to the bone.


    The childs whines made us feel a mix of emotions. We also heard a woman crying and a man shouting.


    Needless to say, they were the uncles son and daughter-inw; they had a headache due to the childs crying.


    A simple canopy tent was put up in the courtyard, and the coffin was ced underneath it. It was positioned on the ground, and I didnt spot anything strange about it. However, I still could feel strong Yin energying from it.


    This grandma had died while filled with resentment. Otherwise, the Yin energy wouldnt be this strong.


    I approached the coffin and knocked on it with my finger. I wanted to see if there would be any movements. The uncle thought that his grandsons cries would disturb me, so he asked his son and daughter-inw to take the baby outside.


    I nced at the baby. He was crying so hard that he couldnt even breathe properly. If things became more serious, the baby would cry out all of his Yang energy, going into shock or even dying. Id have to shoulder a great sin if that happened.


    Even if I didnt kill him, he would have died because of me.


    I turned and walked to the young woman and asked her to let me see her baby.


    She hesitated for a while then shook her head. No, its okay. My sons having an upset tummy. Im going to take him to the clinic and feed him some medicinester


    I knew she didnt believe in my capabilities. Nowadays, not many young people believed in the supernatural. This young woman was dressed nicely and held a smartphone in her hand. Since she was a well-educated person, I understood why she didnt believe in me.


    I gave a wry smile but still kept my eyes on the little boy. The boy looked pale, and his whimpering seemed toe from his stomach. It was because a wisp of Yin energy was blocking his throat.


    If an adult had a wisp of Yin energy blocking their throat, they would feel veryfortable, let alone a baby.


    The uncle fumed, Let the grandmaster see him! Is this the time to be so concerned about science or non-science?


    Although the young woman looked angry, she didnt dare to go against her father-inws will. She held the kid and reluctantly walked towards me.


    I took out the Peach Soul Flower from my bag, tying a red thread to one end and the other around the babys neck. The Peach Soul Flower had strong Yang energy, so it could expel the Yin energy in his throat.


    As soon as I tied the thread around his neck, the boy burped and stopped crying. His bright eyes looked at me as he smiled.


    The young woman was overjoyed. She held the boy and got on her knees, crying, A miracle This is a miracle! Grandmaster, Ive been to many clinics before, but none of the doctors could help him. I was desperate and didnt know what to do


    I didnt know if I shouldugh or cry. Why were all the members of this family kneeling in front of me?


    I pulled her up. No need to thank me. Its my job to take care of those in need. This Peach Soul Flower can only protect you from the Yin energy for a while. In order to be safe, you should leave this ce. Go to your moms ce.


    The woman was grateful and repeatedly thanked me. Eventually, she left with the boy.


    The uncle was stunned. He didnt expect that I was this skilled. He continued to beg me to help him.


    I nodded. If I can help you, I will do it. You dont need to beg me.


    I walked around the coffin. Although the strong Yin energy in the courtyard came from the coffin, I didnt feel waves of energy exuding from it when I came close to it. It was very strange. I checked the coffin from top to bottom but couldnt find the cause.


    Feeling helpless, I could only ask the uncle to open the coffin for me.


    The uncle looked like he was struggling.


    Uncle, are you worried about something? If you dont open the lid, I wont be able to see the situation there.


    He exined, Its not that I dont want to open the coffin, but every time weve opened the coffin, something strange happened. I think we should invite all the strong men in the vige to increase the Yang energy here. I think it could help subdue the coffin.


    I shook my head and exined, Grandma died just a few days ago, and a lot of Yin energy is exuding from her body. Im afraid that her soul will vanish if it collides with strong Yang energy at this moment.


    The uncle still looked worried. But in case something goes wrong


    Li Mazi couldnt stand it anymore. Lets just open it. Why are you talking so much nonsense? Since we are here, we know how to protect ourselves.


    Then, Li Mazi went to lift the coffin lid.


    The uncle gave up. He stepped forward and helped Li Mazi lift up the lid of his mothers coffin.


    Strangely enough, the moment the coffin lid was lifted, the dog that the family had tied to the gate started to bark.


    Then, all the other dogs in the vige followed. They barked crazily.


    As soon as the dogs began to bark, the children in the neighborhood also cried and pitched their voices horribly


    I immediately stopped Li Mazi and the uncle. I told them not to open the coffin fully. That slit was enough.


    The uncle worriedly looked at me. Is Is there a problem?


    It was definitely strange how the dogs were barking and how the children were crying in the entire vige.


    I nodded and said, Yeah, the barks and cries at midnight are signs of a Ghost King melting a soul.


    A Ghost King! Although the old man didnt know what a Ghost King was, the name was enough to scare him. He anxiously asked, Whats a Ghost King? Is that the King of all ghosts?


    I shook my head. A Ghost King is just a powerful ghost. Its one level higher than ordinary resentful ghosts.


    But Ghost Kings rarely stay in our world. Most of the time, they have to perform their duties in Hell. Only when there are chaotic times would one or two Ghost Kingse to make things worse.


    I didnt expect that we would encounter a Ghost King here. I became worried.


    Li Mazis face turned pale. What should we do now?


    We must stop the Ghost King from melting the soul. Otherwise, the grandmothers soul will perish. The Ghost King will be even stronger and


    I didnt finish my words, so the uncle urged me to continue. However, I was afraid that if I revealed more, he would be even more terrified.


    If the Ghost King melted one soul, it wouldnt let off the rest of the family, either. I was afraid that there would be more victims.


    Uncle, please prepare a few things for me. Hurry!


    Then, I hurried to give him a list of things I needed.


    The blood of a rooster and a ck dog, a liter of ck ink, and an old chalk box.


    After the uncle left with the list, Li Mazi immediately asked me, Do you want to be involved in this?


    I nodded, I must take care of this.


    Why is that? Li Mazi was startled by how determined I was.


    Because this is possibly rted to my grandfather.

 Chapter 267: The Coffin of the Zhang Family

    Chapter 267: The Coffin of the Zhang Family


    What? Li Mazi was shocked and looked at me in puzzlement. How do you know that? Your grandfather lived until he was seventy years old and basically died of old age. How could this be rted to him?


    Ive never learned the reason for my grandpas death. However, I heard from other people that on the day of my grandpas death, something strange happened. Many people saw a person wearing a gold robe enter my house. That person was coveredpletely in a red me. Later on, I learned that it was a Ghost King! Ghost Kings donte to this mundane world regrly. But when my grandpa died, one appeared. I suspect that my grandpas soul was melted by that Ghost King and thats why he died.


    Its extremely rare to see a Ghost King in this world. Moreover, that uncle told me that his mother had told him in his dream toe and find me no matter what. That makes me suspect that a wisp of my grandpas soul remnant urged her to do so!


    When I came to this part of my exnation, I gritted my teeth. Anyway, what''s so great about a Ghost King? If I confirm that this is rted to my grandpas death, I will definitely send it to the eighteenthyer of Hell. It will never be able to reincarnate!


    Li Mazi grabbed my shoulders and said, Little Brother Zhang, listen to me. Things are serious this time. No matter what, your opponent is a powerful Ghost King. Promise me that you will keep your head clear. You cant act on your emotions, you know? Promise me.


    I nodded and said, Dont worry. I know what to do.


    Soon after, the uncle brought me the materials I had asked him to collect.


    I found a stainless steel basin and heated it up on a charcoal brazier. Then, I poured some clotted blood and ink into the basin. I asked Li Mazi to use a pair of chopsticks and stir it forty-nine times clockwise and then thirty-six times counterclockwise.


    Li Mazi didnt speak and just did as I asked him.


    At the same time, I stayed by the coffin and watched it. I wanted to set up a five-thunder thread around the coffin. As the five-thunder thread could prevent the corpse from exuding Yin energy, it would alert the Ghost King, causing it toe after us to take revenge.


    I also kept an eye on the things in the house. If the Ghost King wanted to stay in this world, it needed a very powerful otherworldly item to dwell in. Otherwise, its soul would vanish.


    However, even after I checked the uncles house for a while, I didnt find any antiques.


    <em>All right, Ill ask him about thister!</em>


    If his mother told him that there was some otherworldly item, there surely was one.


    Soon after, Li Mazi had finished stirring the bloody substance. The mixture of blood and ink looked like dark-red glue.


    I used a sheet of gauze to extract the fluid and poured it all into the chalk box. Then, with Li Mazi holding the other end, we started to mark the blood-like substance all over the coffin. Soon after, the thick lines created a big.


    I put three burning joss sticks into the slit of the coffin and made an offering to the grandmother so that she could be at ease for a while.


    If we did it this way, the Ghost King wouldnt be able to absorb the Yin energy from her soul.


    Next, I asked the uncle to take us to see the naked zombie.


    The uncle nced outside; the sky waspletely dark.


    He didnt know what to do. How about we go tomorrow? Its reallyte right now. Im afraid that the female zombie will do something very bad. As for my mother... No one dares to stay here and keep an eye on her...


    I said, Theres no need to worry. If we find the female corpse, she wont have time to harm your mother. Your mothers safe for now.


    The uncle still hesitated. It seemed the female corpse had scared him a lot.


    I kept urging him, and he finally nodded his head in agreement. He gritted his teeth then took us to see the female corpse.


    I was worried that the corpse woulde back to life, so I sealed her in the coffin and put her inside a cave, the uncle exined.


    That cave was in a remote ce away from the vige. On the way there, he kept asking me if I could handle it.


    For now, I was focused on investigating my grandpas death, and I wasnt afraid of the dangers. I assured him, Dont worry. Since Im here, Im sure there will be no problems.


    Soon after, the uncle led us to a mountain. After climbing it, we stopped at a cave in the middle of the mountain nk.


    The cave wasnt big, just enough to amodate a persons grave. With the aid from my shlight, I saw a shabby coffin inside.


    However, since the cave was covered with some vines, the interior wasnt clearly visible.


    I wanted to go there and check, but the uncle stopped me. Grandmaster, allow me to say that this female corpse is really scary. Just recently, when I went around to collect the items you asked, I heard from the people thatst night, they heard an old man screaming in pain around the mountain. You must be careful. If youre not confident, we shoulde here tomorrow morning. And, if its okay, I will ask two strong young men to guard you.


    I waved my hand. Theres no need. How could we leave now that weve already arrived?


    However, what the uncle said had nted doubt in me. Didnt he say that there was a beautiful woman in this coffin? Why did they hear an old man crying and screeching? What did the two have inmon?


    My strong curiosity made me feel hurried. I didnt mind what the uncle said and strode toward the cave. I pulled off the vines in front of the cave, which revealed the coffin.


    As soon as I nced at the coffin, I gawked in shock and almost tripped myself. It looked so familiar!


    The front of the coffin had two words carved on it, which were ''''  Bow and ''''  Long. Together, they formed the word ''''  Zhang, which was our familys surname.


    This kind of lettering was our Zhang familys unique method.


    The name Zhang was a kind of protective charm that the ancient deities had given to our Zhang family.


    Carving the family name onto coffins could help protect theter generations. The principle behind this was simr to writing talismans. They were both full of powerful natural energy.


    Moreover, this coffin looked a little tter and longer than a normal coffin. It was also the way our family had done things since my ancestors time. In other words, the person lying in this coffin could be one of my Zhang familys ancestors.


    From the shabby level of this coffin, I guessed it was around ten


    years old. During this period of time, only my grandpa could have used it.


    <em>Is that my grandpas coffin?</em>


    <em>Last night, the people here heard an old man crying and screeching. It could be my grandpa.</em>


    But what about the naked female corpse in the coffin? I couldnt understand that part. Although I was nervous, I reached my hands to lift up the coffin lid.


    Li Mazi was anxious and jumped toward me. We shouldnt open the coffin. I just saw something.


    My hands retracted, and my head turned much clearer.


    It seemed I had been bewitched and led to open the coffin, even though I wasnt well prepared.


    I asked Li Mazi, What did you see?


    Li Mazi took a deep breath and said, I saw a shadow sit on the coffin. However, it disappeared right after. Still, from the shape, I recognized that it was a naked woman.


    What? I immediately turned to take a look at the coffin, but there was nothing on the lid.


    Were you hallucinating? I asked.


    Li Mazi looked frightened and turned to the coffin. I dont know, but I think I saw a beautiful woman smile at you. I dont know what she meant by that.


    Open the coffin, I said.  We need to open it. I want to check whats inside.


    Then, I took out the Sirius Whip and sprinkled the soybeans I had prepared around the coffin. I also put a handful of soybeans in my mouth. While I chewed the beans, I tried to open the coffin.


    Li Mazi followed suit. After he had chewed and swallowed the beans, he started to help me open the coffin.


    We had opened the coffin a little, but everything was normal. There was no ck smoke or noise.


    However, this situation didnt seem normal at all. That was why I had just lifted a little and not the entire lid. I shone the shlight into the coffin and carefully looked inside.


    What I saw made me drop my jaw in shock.


    There was a female body inside the coffin. The body had wless skin, and her facial features were exquisite. Her hair reached her waist, and she calmlyy inside the coffin, just as if she was sleeping.


    <em>Is she a Ghost King? Still, why is she lying in my grandpas coffin? And, why isnt her body dposing?</em>


    Everything was so unbelievable. I took a deep breath to calm myself down.


    Grandmaster, youve seen the corpse. Should we go now? asked the uncle. We should hurry. I feel that something is wrong.


    Oh, whats wrong? I looked at him in puzzlement.


    The uncle kept silent for a long moment then said, Just recently... You and Mr. Li smiled strangely at the coffin.


    What? I was shocked and looked at Li Mazi. Li Mazi also looked at me with a dumbstruck face. He shook his head to me and said, No, I didnt smile.


    But its true, the uncle said. I can say you were forced to smile. The muscles on your face bulged and twisted, and your smile looked awkward. Im not lying to you. You were really smiling.


    I was startled. If we smiled and didnt notice anything, there could only be one exnation... We were bewitched by that beautiful corpse.


    Everything was too strange, so I decided to leave for now.


    I closed the coffin, nailed it, and turned around to leave.


    I asked the uncle to lead the way while Li Mazi and I followed him.


    The uncle basically ignored us quickly descended the mountain.


    I deliberately slowed down and pulled Li Mazis shoulder. Li Mazi, slow down. I need to tell you something.


    What is it? Li Mazi turned to ask me.


    Theres something wrong about that uncle. He purposely made us leave the mountain.


    Li Mazi was bewildered. How do you know that?


    I said, We didnt actually smile; he tried to deceive us. Moreover, did you notice that his shadow doesnt coordinate with his body? It sometimes separates from his body.


    Li Mazi was frightened and sweated. Little Brother Zhang, stop joking. Why would that uncle trick us? Dont tell me that the Ghost King is controlling his body...


    Wait and act on my signal. We cant alert him. I patted Li Mazis shoulder. Then, we both elerated to keep up with the uncle.

 Chapter 268: Theres Something Wrong With That Uncle

    Chapter 268: There''s Something Wrong With That Uncle


    The uncle turned back to look at us. When he saw us, he urged us to hurry up since there were venomous snakes and wild animals hiding in the mountains. If we slowed down, we could be attacked.


    I nodded and said, Okay.


    Then, we increased our speed and followed after him.


    The uncle brought us back to his house and sat in the funeral hall. This further set off his abnormal behavior. Under normal circumstances, the first thing he should do was check his mothers coffin to see if anything had happened.


    However, he didnt seem too interested in his mother right now.


    I didnt say much and just sat next to him. We should rest first. Tomorrow, we will go back to the mountain and check things out. We couldnt see things clearly today because it was too dark.


    The uncle nodded. Although he was sitting on the chair, he soon started snoring.


    I pretended to sleep andid right next to him.


    Li Mazi continuously winked at me. I knew he was wondering how I could sleep when I knew that the uncle could do something to harm us.


    I shot him a meaningful nce, hinting that I wasnt sleeping and was pretending in order to see what the uncle nned to do.


    Li Mazi also closed his eyes and pretended to sleep.


    I was tired, though. So when Iid down, I started to feel sleepy. However, I didnt dare to sleep. I quietly read the sacred text of Daoism to keep my mind clear.


    The uncle didnt move. It was as if he was really sleeping.


    No matter how effective the sacred text of Daoism was, I still began to feel anxious and restless. I felt sleepy again and almost couldnt bear it.


    After holding on for three or four hours, I was exhausted both mentally and physically. I felt that the uncle wouldnt do anything, and he had just wanted to rush home from the dangerous mountain. There shouldnt be any problems.


    With that thought, I decided to rest.


    I stopped reading the sacred text of Daoism and prepared to take a nap.


    However, as soon as I was about to drift into sleep, the uncle next to me started to move.


    He got up from the sofa and gently called, Mr. Zhang.


    Of course, I didnt answer.


    When he confirmed that I was sleeping, he exhaled in relief. Then, he went to check his mothers coffin. He just stood there and gazed at it.


    <em>What the heck is he doing there?</em>


    I thought that he would mess with the five-thunder thread to help the Ghost King suck his mothers Yin energy, but he didnt do that. He stood there for a while then headed towards the entrance.


    When the uncle got to the courtyard, Li Mazi got up and prepared to wake me up.


    I gave Li Mazi a wink and asked him not to act rashly. Perhaps the uncle was still prying on us.


    Li Maziid back and pretended to sleep again.


    Sure enough, the door was pushed open again soon after. The uncle staggered in, and after he confirmed that we didnt chase after him, he went out again.


    Once he left, I woke Li Mazi up and we both rushed after him.


    Li Mazi followed behind me and gasped for his breath. What the heck does he want to do? I knew he was sketchy!


    I shook my head and said, I dont know. Lets just follow him. We cant let him discover us.


    ARGHHHH! As soon as the two of us got to the mountain, we heard the scream of an old man.


    After hearing the voice, I almost shouted in shock.


    The voice was too familiar. It was my grandpas voice!


    Although it had been ten years since I had parted from him, his voice and face were deeply carved in my heart. I was sure it was him.


    <em>Its really my grandpa!</em>


    That female corpse had upied his coffin, and he had nowhere to stay. Did that mean he had to endure torment every day?<em></em>I had to save him!


    <em></em>I knew I was facing a Ghost King, but even if my opponent was the King of Hell himself, I wouldnt retreat!


    The uncle went all the way to the mountain. His somewhat hunchback body moved as agilely as a monkey. He quickly moved through the trees and the bumpy path and headed toward the cave that hid the coffin.


    Li Mazi and I struggled to climb up, and we almost lost sight of him a few times. But in the end, we managed to reach the cave.


    The uncle didnt go near the coffin. Instead, he went to a thick bush nearby. When he lifted the dried grass, I stopped breathing from shock.


    A man was quietly lying inside the bush...


    His clothing, his face... he looked exactly the same as that other uncle!


    <em>How can there be two of them? It seems that the uncle that took us down the mountain was fake...</em>


    I took in a deep breath.


    The fake uncle touched the real uncle''s forehead. As the real uncle woke up, the fake one prepared to sneak away.


    <em>That bastard has been deceiving us all this time!</em>


    My face turned purple in rage. I raised the Sirius Whip and dashed forward,shing at the fake uncles back.


    However, the Sirius Whip didnt affect him a bit. He was surprised but soon disappeared into the darkness. He angrily red at us before fleeing.


    <em>Damn, even my Sirius Whip couldnt hurt him. Who was that man?</em>


    The real uncle woke up and was panic-stricken. Help me! Help me!


    Since I was focused on the fake uncle, I didnt have time to care about him. I asked Li Mazi to stay and take care of him while I ran after the fake uncle.


    However, that fake uncle didnt have a tangible body. After he hid in the forest, I lost sight of him.


    Then, I heard my grandpas voice like a head-splitting siren from the peak of the mountain.


    <em>My grandpa is at the top of the mountain!</em>


    I didnt hesitate and climbed up to the mountain top. I had to find my grandpa and ask him about his death. Then, I would look for his murderer.


    While I was climbing up the mountain, I noticed that someone was watching my back.


    I immediately turned around to check.


    It turned out that the beautiful female corpse was chasing after me!<em></em>


    <em>When did she get out of the coffin? And, why is she chasing after me?</em>


    I halted and stared at her.


    The beautiful corpse was almost illusory, just as if it was some 3D projection.


    I grabbed a handful of soybeans and shouted angrily, Who the hell are you? Why are you stalking me?


    She didnt say anything but kept staring at my eyes.


    She had curves in the right ces, crystal clear eyes, and exquisite facial features. She was extremely beautiful. However, I wasnt in the mood to admire her. I just wanted to find my grandpa.


    I threw the soybeans to the ground and warned her, If you cross this line, dont me me for attacking you.


    After I threw the stunning corpse a fierce look, I turned and headed to the mountain.


    The corpse didnt want to give up. When I took a step forward, she also took a step forward.


    I was enraged. There was a high chance that she was a Ghost King, so I needed to see her real face.


    Forests were always filled with things with strong Yin energy. If I could find some items with strong Yin energy, I could open my Yin and Yang Eye to see her real face. I checked around and found a tuft of Myriad Root Grass.


    ording to legends, the Myriad Root Grass would grow after ghost tears fell to the ground. Since it had absorbed the tears of a ghost, it was full of Yin energy; it could help me open my Yin and Yang Eye.


    I was excited and quickly pulled out the Myriad Root Grass. I crushed it in my palms and applied the grass extract to my eyes.


    The female corpse didnt know what Im doing. She observed me with curiosity.


    After I smeared the fluid on my eyes, I felt a sharp pain, as if I had grains of sand in them.


    I tried to rub my eyes to adjust to the pain. Then, I turned to look at the female corpse.


    In the next moment, I was dumbstruck. The beautiful female corpse was gone, and the only thing left was a strange set of clothes that flew back and forth. It looked really weird.


    I didnt know what the clothing was made of, but it was shiny and somewhat resembled a set of armor. The upper body looked like a t-shirt and the lower body looked like a pair of long-legged boxers.


    Also, the upper garment seemed to have tes of gold connected to one other. It shined dazzlingly.


    <em>Is that the culprit or just the otherworldly item?</em>


    Why did you want to swallow those souls? Its something that goes against the will of the heavens. You will be punished for it! I shouted.


    The set of clothes didnt say anything and just floated in front of me.


    I wanted to chase after it and capture it. However, as soon as I came close, it quickly retreated. When I moved back, it followed me


    I cursed under my breath. I didnt want to waste time on this golden clothing. My current goal was to find my grandpa.


    I turned around and rushed toward the mountain top like crazy.


    It looked like no one had ever visited this ce. There was no path, and the nts here were lush. Centipedes, snakes, and rats were everywhere. If I was a little careless, I could step on a venomous snake and get poisoned. I regretted not bringing some realgar powder to keep the animals away.


    Eventually, I reached the mountain top. The set of garments still followed after me.


    The nts at the top of the mountain were even lusher. Although the moon over my head was round, the moonlight couldnt pierce through the branches. The entire ce was deadly silent except for the cicadas and crickets. My grandpas voice had also vanished into thin air.


    However, I had a strong premonition that his soul was nearby!

 Chapter 269: Grandpa Appears

    Chapter 269: Grandpa Appears


    It had been ten years since my grandpas death, and I didnt even have the chance to see him onest time. Now, I had finally found him. I couldnt suppress my excitement!


    I hated that we couldn''t be reunited immediately. I wanted to tell him how much I had missed him during these ten years.


    I forgot the time, the location, and the bizarre set of clothing that was following me. I even forgot about the wild animals and venomous snakes nearby. Only when my legs started feeling heavy did I notice that a snake had bitten me. I didnt bleed much, but the wound had turned ck, oozing mucus.


    I turned pale with fright as the snakes here were extremely dangerous. If I dyed the treatment, the consequences would be horrible. I could even lose my limb.


    I used a dagger to cut the wound open, trying to squeeze out the poisoned blood. It was very painful, but I gritted my teeth and endured.


    However, it didnt work. The toxin quickly spread in my body, and shortly after, my entire leg had turned purplish-ck.


    I knew I couldnt descend the mountain to seek help under such circumstances, so I took out my phone to make a call. However, there was no signal.


    <em>Will my life end like this? Will I die on this deserted mountain?</em>


    <em>I dont want to die just yet. I havent even seen my grandpa!</em>


    Just as I was feeling desperate, I heard someone rush through the bushes. I turned around and saw a shadow approaching me. The figure seemed to be looking around.


    I tightly grabbed my Sirius Whip. If I felt threatened, I would attack without hesitation.


    It was veryte at night, so it was unlikely that the other party had good intentions.


    However, as soon as the shadow came close, I recognized who he was. It was Li Mazi!


    Li Mazi looked at me as Iy paralyzed on the ground. His face grimaced. Little Brother Zhang, did a venomous snake bite you?


    I rxed a little after seeing Li Mazi. I smiled and gave him a nod.


    Although this fellow didnt have any special skill, whenever I was in a hopeless situation, he would appear by my side and help me.


    "You still feel like smiling? How can you smile in this situation! he took a sachet out of his pocket and nagged. I knew that you were an idiot and would rush to the mountain alone, so I had toe here to help you. If I hadnte, you would be dead already. Sigh, youre really good at making me worry


    I joked and said, Li Mazi, youre a real friend. You saved my life! If I were a girl, I would definitely marry you.


    Enough with this nonsense. Li Mazi couldnt help but shiver. Im not even sure if youll make it.


    Anyway, it turned out the uncle was really worried when he discovered that Id gone to the mountain alone. He told Li Mazi that there were a lot of venomous snakes in the forest, and not even the experienced local hunters dared toe here.


    Li Mazi thought that I would only focus on finding my grandfather and ignore the danger. He grabbed some antivenom and climbed up the mountain to find me. Eventually, his guess turned out to be correct.


    The antivenom was produced locally and was very effective. He then squeezed the poisonous blood out of my body and wrapped my wound. After everything was done, Li Mazi gasped for his breath. How is it going? Have you found him yet?


    I shook my head and forced a smile. I didnt find him and almost lost my life.


    Then, I turned to look at that set of clothes hovering not far from me. It almost seemed as if it was keeping an eye on me.


    Li Mazi followed my gaze and jumped in fright. Crap Its her Why the heck is she here?


    I knew that Li Mazi was seeing a stunning woman instead of that set of ancient garments.


    Ignore her, I told him.


    Li Mazi was scared and looked at me nervously. We should leave this mountain as soon as possible. This female corpse is too wicked. Moreover, were on a wild mountain, and its midnight! Were at a disadvantage here; we cant provoke her.


    I said, Theres no need to be scared. Its just a lifeless otherworldly item. Since it didnt attack us, it means we have something on our bodies that its scared of.


    Li Mazi said, What? An otherworldly item? What are you talking about? Thats a corpse!


    I said reluctantly, Its a long story, and Ill exinter. Come and hold me up. I need to find my grandpa.


    Li Mazi was enraged. How can you be this stubborn? If the venom spreads further in your body, you will die!


    I told him, If I can see my grandpa onest time, Im willing to sacrifice my life. Please, help me up.


    Seeming me so resolute, Li Mazi sighed and said, All right, all right!


    As he pulled me up, the ancient garments shook a few times. It buzzed and issued a metallic sound.


    At first, I thought that it was trying to bewitch me, so I immediately covered my ears. Li Mazi looked at me and did the same.


    However, the sound seemed to be very ordinary and didnt have any effect on me. Quite the contrary, it helped me clear my mind. I felt much more refreshed, and my hearing also became more sensitive.


    Right after that, I heard a rattling noiseing from the grass. It sounded like something was moving through the tall des.


    When a venomous snake showed up right in front of me, my nerves went tense immediately.


    <em>That thing was summoning snakes!</em> I was startled and asked Li Mazi to take me away.


    However, it was already toote. There were around seventy or eighty snakes wiggling and slithering around us. They created a big circle around us, making it impossible for us to escape.


    Li Mazi was shocked, and his trypophobia arose; he even forgot to support me. We both squatted on the ground and shivered. T-There are so many snakes! Why did they suddenly appear here? Little Brother Zhang, tell me, do you owe them money or something?


    I couldnt help butugh. It seemed the ancient set of garments had decided to take action.


    The venomous snakes had us surrounded. I could recognize banded kraits, sharp-nosed vipers, and even cobras. They held their heads in the air and tucked their tongues out.


    I sneered and provoked them, Come if you have the courage! Lets see if whos stronger  your venom or my Sirius Whip!


    I was ready to give my all and battle against the venomous snakes.


    Dont move. Li Mazi held me back and said nervously, Something is off. That female corpse doesnt seem to want our lives. She wants to hold us as hostages!


    What? I gawked and looked at Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi nodded and said, She wants to hold us as hostages to force your grandfather to show up.


    What? I red at the set of ancient garments. If you have the courage,e over! We will have a fair battle. Stop ying tricks!


    The other party ignored me. Perhaps, from its point of view, I wasnt qualified to be its opponent.


    While I was thinking, a small tornado swept over and wrapped around us. My vision was instantly clouded.


    Whats up with this strange wind? Li Ma Zi tensed up and struggled to get away from the small tornado.


    However, I felt a familiar feeling while inside the tornado, just as if a rough palm was rubbing my face


    I was certain this tornado was created by my grandfather.


    I was overjoyed. He knew that we were here!


    I hurried to stand up and called, Grandpa, where are you? Please,e out. Im your grandson. Im Zhang Jiulin. Im here to find you


    Only the howling wind answered me. I couldn''t see anyone else around me.


    Buzz!


    The set of ancient garments buzzed again.


    The noise it created seemed to have magical power. It stormed forward and swirled into a tornado that spun counterclockwise.


    The two tornados neutralized each other and disappeared. The venomous snakes swarmed toward me and tucked out their tongues threateningly. It looked as if they would attack me at any moment.


    Dont even dream about using me to threaten my grandfather! I gritted my teeth and wielded the Sirius Whip as I faced the advancing snakes.


    The whip did wonders and easily dispersed the Yin energy controlling the snakes. The snakes returned to their senses and scattered in fear.


    However, the ancient clothes buzzed one more time, and the pit of snakes that had just recovered was controlled again. They sizzled and crawled toward us.


    I didnt dare to stop and continuouslyshed my Sirius Whip.


    However, I knew the Sirius Whip wouldnt work for a long time. I asked Li Mazi to make a fire to expel the venomous snakes.


    I whipped the snakes seven times, but I could only shoo away a very small number of snakes. The rest continued to gaze at us.


    Li Mazi set up a ring of fire that circled around us, but it wasnt very effective. Since the snakes were being controlled, they werent afraid of death. Some lunged through the fire and burned themselves.


    As the venomous snakes were about to swarm us and bite us, a stern, powerful voice came from the dark. Stop immediately!


    It was my grandfathers voice! Tears fell from in my eyes as I turned around to look.


    In the distance, I saw an old man wearing a Chinese tunic suit.


    He nced at me with his hawk eyes, his expression stern but loving. Although his face was full of wrinkles and his hair white, I recognized him immediately.


    <em>Grandpa is finally here!</em>


    I felt overjoyed. Grandpa, youre here!


    My grandpa nodded and looked at the set of ancient clothes. Let them go. Ill go with you.


    No! I felt a heartache and tried to stop him. No, grandpa. Dont listen to it. Just run, please!


    My grandfather smiled at me. Grandson, Im a dead man. You dont need to waste your time on me. Go back, you dont need to bother with this matter.


    Then, he floated toward the shining ancient garments.


    His feet didnt touch the ground as he glided away. However, although he was in his soul form, he still had a righteous aura that deserved respect from others.


    Grandpa! I cried my lungs out. Dont go, dont listen to it! Please, run!


    Ive lived a long life but didnt leave anything valuable to you. During my career as an otherworldly merchant, I had umted a few items. If you dig for around three meters under my bed, you will find them. Go home and live well. When you have a baby with that girl,e at my grave. Thats how you will please your deceased grandfather.


    Then, he gave me a faint smile.


    I was short of breath. How could our reunion be so short? I had a lot of things I wanted to tell him. How could he disappear like that?


    I cried my heart out, but it was to no avail. My grandfather ignored me and went straight toward the set of ancient garments, disappearing into thin air.

 Chapter 270: Baleful Aura Soaring Towards the Sky

    Chapter 270: Baleful Aura Soaring Towards the Sky


    After the ancient set of garments got what it wanted, it descended the mountain.


    The venomous snakes finally returned to their senses. When they felt the scorching me in front of them, they all fled for their lives.


    I didnt want to stand and watch as my grandfather was abducted. I quickened my pace and tried to find them. However, it was toote.


    I was still in a daze as Li Mazi dragged me down the mountain. I couldnt understand why the ancient clothing targeted my grandfather or why it wanted to control that uncles mother.


    <em>Is there any rtion between my grandpa and that uncles mother?</em>


    <em>Also, my grandpa told me to visit his grave after that girl gave birth to a child. How did he know that I was engaged? Since he knows about Yin Xinyue, he probably never left the house and secretly watched over me all this time</em>


    My grandfather was dead but still worried about me. I, on the other hand, didnt burn a joss stick for him in ages. I felt that I had been very unfilial.


    I didnt know how much time had passed when we reached the foot of the mountain. We didn''t encounter danger because Li Mazi was well-prepared and poured realgar wine all over us. No snake dared toe close.


    The uncle was waiting at the mountain foothills with some men. After seeing me on Li Mazis back, he knew I was bitten by a venomous snake. He came over to support me.


    As we were out of danger, I finally rxed. Everything in front of me turned ck, and I lost consciousness.


    When I woke up, it was bright outside. The uncle and Li Mazi stayed beside me for the whole night and watched over me.


    Little Brother Zhang, youre finally awake! Li Mazi looked at me with warmth in his eyes. If you didnt wake up, I would have taken you to the general hospital in the province.


    I smiled and struggled to get up. My body was so feeble that I had to use every bit of my strength just to sit up.


    Li Mazi hurried to support me. Dont be impatient. We just got rid of the venom in your body. You should stay still in your bed.


    No, I cant. This matter was rted to my grandpas soul, and I didnt have the time to wait for my wounds to heal. I wanted to see the coffin in the cave.


    Seeing how stubborn I was, Li Mazi could onlyprise. We can go there, but you must listen to me. If there is danger, we have to run immediately. We cant fight the enemy head on.


    I nodded.


    The uncle found a stretcher and asked two young men to carry me to the mountain.


    I asked them to take me to the cave where the coffin was hidden. I wanted to see how the clothes had changed after absorbing my grandpas soul.


    ording to my experience, this ancient set of clothes would find afortable hiding ce during the day. There was no doubt that the coffin was the best ce for it to hide. If it returned to the coffin, my grandpas soul would be there as well.


    I had a general idea of how to extract souls, and I had to get my grandpas soul out of there at all costs.


    However, when we entered the cave that had the coffin, everybody was shocked.


    That coffin seemed to have vanished into thin air!


    I asked the group to check around, but we saw neither the coffin nor any trail.


    It was a material object and was pretty big. How could it disappear into thin air without leaving any trace behind?


    Did it fly away?


    The coffin was gone and my grandpas soul with it. I didnt want him to be tortured even after his death.


    I asked the folks to expand their search; I had to find that coffin.


    Our group scattered and searched around. However, we couldnt find anything. I went into the cave as well, but I found nothing useful.


    I was desperate. Even if the ancient clothes were powerful, how could they make such a big coffin disappear? A several-hundred-kilogram coffin had vanished into thin air.


    While I was baffled, the uncles phone rang. After he took the call, his face turned pale.


    He grimaced and said, Mr. Zhang, something happened at my house. We should go back to check things out!


    I nodded. It was meaningless to stay here since we couldnt find the coffin. I gave the vigers who had helped me some money as service fees.


    While descending the mountain, I asked the uncle, What happened in your house?


    The uncle sounded upset. We were careful but not enough. It seems my mothers soul was taken away.


    Eh? I was bewildered and asked, How do you know?


    The uncle said, In our vige, we have an old custom. Before we bury ourte family members, we have to burn three joss sticks. If the deceaseds soul is still in the coffin, wisps of smoke from the joss sticks will enter the coffin through the slit between the lid and the coffin body. We believe that the soul will take it as its meal. But just now, when my family burned joss sticks for my mother, all the smoke scattered outward. That means the wandering ghosts around were eating my mothers meal. In other words, her soul is no longer there


    Then, the uncle burst out crying. Mother, Im so sorry! I wasnt filial enough!


    I felt sad. My grandpas soul was taken away, and now the same thing happened to that granny


    I knew that souls could be forcibly taken away, but I was still suspicious. I didnt sense anything strangest night, so when did the ancient clothes take the old womans soul? Did it happen this morning after we left?


    The more I thought about it, the more suspicious I became. <em>Yang energy is the strongest in the morning. Is that set of ancient clothes not afraid of basking in Yang energy? Just how strong is it?</em>


    When we returned to his house, we saw his son nervously walk back and forth at the gate. He didnt dare to enter the house. After seeing us, he immediately rushed forward. Dad, whats going on? Did the grandmaster fail to deal with that foul thing?


    I said, We need to verify if the grandmas soul was taken.


    The uncles son said with a reluctant expression, Ive tried seven or eight times. Every time I offered her the joss sticks, the smoke flew outward. Her soul isnt there.


    I immediately replied, Thats just a rudimentary method; its not always reliable. Have you thought about other possibilities? Perhaps her soul was too weak and maybe there happened to be a bunch of hungry ghosts outside your door. Your grandma couldntpete against them, so she couldnt enjoy the smoke from the joss sticks.


    But she could still manage to get at least a wisp, right? The uncles son was still doubtful.


    I waved my hand and said, Let me check.


    I stuck an evil-expelling talisman to their door and scattered soybeans at the entrance. Then, I burned nine joss sticks on the nearby street.


    I used the evil-expelling talisman to prevent the wandering ghosts froming in and burned the joss sticks by the road to calm them. If there were really some wandering ghosts, they would no longerpete for the joss stick smoke inside the courtyard.


    After everything was settled, I nodded to the uncles son. Now, burn three joss sticks.


    The uncles son immediately burned three joss sticks and set them on the coffin lid.


    To my surprise, the wisps of smoke flew straight up into the air. They didnt meander or swirl but flew up towards the ceiling and disappeared.


    Not only had the soul disappeared, but there was also a baleful aura that had caused the smoke to fly upwards in a straight line


    The uncle looked at me and asked, Did you find anything?


    I didnt tell them about the baleful aura as I didnt want to scare them. Im afraid her soul was really taken away. However, we still can find her soul and bring it back. Dont worry.


    At the same time, I thought about the source of the baleful aura. Was the otherworldly item hiding in the uncles house? It must be a very item if it could release such a terrifying murderous aura.


    The uncle suddenly sighed. Mr. Zhang, since my mothers soul has been taken away, you dont need to waste your time here anymore. You can leave.


    I quickly answered, Uncle, I can still fix this.


    The uncle forced a smile. Its fine. Yesterday, my mother appeared in my dream. She said that I shouldnt waste any more time on this as she couldnt endure the torment any longer. Maybe its better if she be the servant of a Ghost King. At least, she wont have to suffer anymore.


    Eh? I looked at the uncle with skeptical eyes. Your mother talked to you in your dream? Did she really tell you that?


    The uncle nodded. Yes, she did.


    I nodded and looked pensive. All right. If you insist, I wont investigate this case any further. Lets go.


    Then, I nced at Li Mazi, who quickly followed me as he wanted to leave long ago.


    The uncle gave me arge sum of money, more than twenty thousand renminbi.


    When we got out of the vige, all of the folks that hade to see us off went back. I stopped and pulled Li Mazi into a corner and said, Li Mazi, did that uncle sleepst night?


    Li Mazi looked at me in puzzlement. Why do you ask? Even if there is something wrong, we dont need to care about this matter anymore. They asked us to leave.


    Did that uncle sleepst night? I repeated my question.


    Li Mazi shook his head. No. What about it?


    If he didnt sleep, how could his mother talk to him in his dream? That uncle is fishy.


    How so? Li Mazi was startled and said, Whats fishy about him?


    Ive always had a feeling that he had bad intentions. I contemted then said, All right, you should sneak back in the vige and keep an eye on him. Pay attention to what he does with the coffin. Im going back to the antique shop. Yesterday, my grandpa told me that he hid some things under his bed. I dont think its only money, there should be something else as well. Perhaps there is something that can help us deal with that otherworldly item. Ill see you tonight at the vige entrance!


    Li Mazi was puzzled but did as Id asked. He secretly returned to the vige.


    In the meantime, I hurried to return to my antique shop, my heart filled with doubts.

 Chapter 271: Millennial Icy Sword

    Chapter 271: Millennial Icy Sword


    Since the poor womans soul wasnt there, where did the baleful aura in the uncles housee from?


    The uncle said that his mother had talked to him in his dreams. That was why he asked me not to investigate the case any further.


    However, it made no sense. People in the countryside took filial piety very seriously. There was no way he would just watch his mothers soul endure this torment, giving up on the only chance to fix things.


    Everything told me that there was something wrong with him, so I couldnt just ignore him. After all, this matter was rted to my grandfather.


    I knew I couldnt handle this opponent alone, so I called Chuyi to ask him if he had time to help me with this case.


    Soon enough, the call went through. Before I could talk, Chuyi asked, Where are you?


    Im on my way back to the antique shop.


    As soon as I was about to ask him to help me, Chuyi said, Im in your shop. Come back as soon as possible. Theres something we need to solve.


    Then, he hung up the phone.


    I was puzzled. <em>Why would Chuyi be at my shop at this time? He said that we need to solve something... What was he talking about?</em>


    Chuyi was the sort of man that wouldnt show up unless things were serious.


    <em>Did hee to help me solve my grandpas issue?</em> I thought that it was possible.


    After I got off the bus, I took a taxi and headed back to the antique shop.


    After returning to the shop, I found not only Chuyi but also Zen Master Baimei. They were enjoying tea and chatting in my shop.


    I had given Chuyi the key to my shop in the past.


    Chuyi, Zen Master Baimei. I stepped forward to greet them. You both came at the right time!


    Merciful Buddha. Zen Master Baimei said, Old Zhang issued an order. How could I note?


    Old Zhang? Do you mean my grandfather? I was startled.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. Yes, your grandfather. Chuyi and I already know the story. You should do what you have to do. Chuyi and I will protect you.


    Did my grandfather talk to you in your dreams? I was overjoyed. Who am I fighting this time? Even my grandfather couldnt defeat it and had his coffin stolen.


    Zen Master Baimei smiled. Its just a Ghost King. Dont worry. Its not that intimidating. Evil will never defeat goodness. That thing cant rise against the tide.


    Although Zen Master Baimei said so, I knew that he just wanted tofort me. Otherwise, they wouldnt need toe here.


    However, there was no time to waste. I did as my grandpa had asked and took them to the room he used to stay in.


    I had turned his bedroom into a storage room where I kept the antiques. I cleaned the room and located the beds position. Then, I started to dig the ground.


    Since my house had a thick concrete floor, it wasnt easy to dig. I had to borrow an electric drill from my neighbor to break the concreteyer before I could dig the soil with a shovel.


    After digging for around three meters, I found something.


    It was a big, ck te. It was thick and had a rough surface. Many smaller pebbles were iid on it. The pebbles were arranged into the word, Subdue.


    It looked very odd.


    <em>Grandpa wanted me to unearth this ck te? What can it do?</em>


    I cleaned the te then gently knocked on it, discovering that there was a hollow space underneath it. I thought there might be a small chamber hidden under the te, so I decided to drill through the rock b.


    The drill had pierced through for around a dozen centimeters, but it did not reach the other end of the b.


    After I drilled it, the b abruptly broke into half. Since I was standing on it, I lost my foothold and almost fell down.


    I threw the electric drill aside to free my hands and support myself. Fortunately, I didnt fall.


    Soon after, my lower body felt cold, just as if I had stepped on an iceberg. It was so cold that my feet went numb


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei immediately pulled me up. I lowered my head and saw a deep cave, a dry well to be precise.


    It seemed the ck te was used to cover the dry well.


    Why did my antique shop have a dry well underneath? Also, why was it so chilly? I could even see white wisps of cold air surge out; it was like a refrigerator.


    I looked down but couldnt see the bottom of the well, only darkness. After a while, the cold air sent a chill to my heart, and I had to retract my head.


    I pointed at the deep well. My grandfather asked me to find something. I guess its in this dry well. However, it too deep and strangely cold. Its hard to get anything up from down there.


    Chuyi contemted then said, Huang Tong, go down there and check.


    Then, a strange wind brushed past me.


    I couldnt help but shudder. <em>Who was Chuyi</em><em>talking to? Was it that young Daoist boy hes raising? That little boys always been here, but I didnt even notice!</em>


    Shortly after, Chuyi received a reply.


    The Millennial Icy Sword is down there. Its so cold that it froze the entire underground stream of water. Moreover, the swords energy is really sharp. It almost hurt Huang Tong.


    The Millennial Icy Sword? I was startled. I had never thought that every corner of my tattered antique shop had hidden treasures Deep down the dry well was the Millennial Icy Sword.


    Still, how could we take it out? This was a big problem.


    I immediately thought about the firemen. Since we werent professionally trained, we might suffocate if we got down there. It was better to ask the firemen to help us fish up the sword.


    However, I couldnt tell them the truth as they might alert the police; all unearthed treasures belonged to the government.


    Left with no choice, I threw a golden ring into the well and made a call to their department. I lied and said that I needed help to retrieve my precious ring worth a million renminbi.


    The firemen came with professional equipment to collect items. They dropped down an underwater camera to see the situation in the well.


    Through the monitor, I immediately saw the Millennial Icy Sword.


    It was shining ck and covered in a thickyer of ice. It continuously exuded cold air that swirled in the well.


    The golden ringy next to the Millennial Icy Sword. It was already half-frozen.


    I said, No wonder Ive never found that sword! It was a piece of art that belonged to my grandfather. Turns out it fell into this deep well. Brothers, please help me bring it up too. Thanks in advance.


    Then, I gave the team leader two thousand renminbi. Brothers, sorry for troubling you. Please have some drinkster!


    The team leader smiled and received the money. Dont worry. Its just a sword, consider it done!


    Shortly after, they retrieved the Millennial Icy Sword. As soon as it was brought to the surface, the chilly air expanded and filled the room. The temperature dropped sharply, and the fireman who stood closest to the sword had ayer of frost on his gloves.


    Boss, you can save a huge sum of money this summer. This toy can rece the air conditioner in your house, said the fireman as he smiled.


    I smiled awkwardly and said, Haha, I think its the well. Its too cold.


    After sending the firemen off, I began to assess the icy sword.


    The sword had a simple design and a shiny ck body. The handle was decorated with a copper coin. It lookedmon, and the words written on it were unclear due to the rust.


    I touched the sword and felt an icy chill. It felt colder than an ice cube!


    It was a very intimidating otherworldly item as it was covered in strong Yin energy. It looked absolutely formidable!


    I thought that only a great general or an emperor was worthy of this icy sword.


    I asked Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei, Do you know the story of this ancient sword?


    Zen Master Baimei studied the sword then held it in his hand. He said, From the appearance of this sword, I guess its from the Han dynasty. But its not easy to guess its owner. Anyway, the cold and sharp energy from the sword is really strong. If we dont subdue it, it might cause a disaster. We should store it very carefully.


    I knew I didnt have the ability to subdue the Millennial Icy Sword. Zen Master Baimei, after were done with this matter, lets take it to your Dabei Temple. We can use the power of Buddha to subdue it.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded.


    Then, we all rushed toward the remote vige.


    From a distance, I saw ck clouds hover above the vige. The mist had started to appear as well. Although it wasnt thick, we could see human faces inside it, which made our hearts shiver in fear.


    Those were definitely the signs of a great disaster.


    When Chuyi lifted his head to look at the ck clouds, he sighed. Were a littlete!

 Chapter 272: Black Clouds Descending, Heavenly Punishment Incoming

    Chapter 272: ck Clouds Descending, Heavenly Punishment Iing


    Those ck clouds are a sign that the heavenly punishment ising! Zen Master Baimei said. Theres someone in this vige that has done something that goes against the heavens will. If that person survives this heavenly punishment, the consequences will be unimaginable.


    I was startled, but I didnt agree with Zen Master Baimeis view. I know the people here, and they are honest workers. Theyve been farming for generations and have earned their living. There are no witches or sorcerers in this vige, so how could someone here do something that goes against the heavens will? Also, even if they did, I dont think that person will be able to endure the heavenly punishment.


    Zen Master Baimei gave me a knowing smile. That person isnt stupid; they know they cant bear the heavenly punishment. Thats why they want to use the entire vige as a meat shield. If we dont find them, the people in this vige will all be doomed!


    The burden on my shoulders became heavier. Now, the lives of all the people in the vige were in my hands. The pressure made me feel breathless.


    We didnt go to the vige directly as we would alert the enemy. I called Li Mazi and asked him to reunite with us at the vige entrance.


    Soon after, Li Mazi came. After seeing Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi, he cheered up. Its great that you guys are here. I don''t think we could deal with this alone.


    Li Mazi, what did you discover? I asked.


    Li Mazi said, That uncle is indeed fishy. This morning, he took his mother''s corpse to town to cremate her. Then, he sprinkled her ashes into theke. After he dumped her ashes, a strong mist rose from theke and covered the entire vige


    What happened afterwards? I asked.


    Li Mazi said, Nothing. He didnt go out for the whole day. Oh right, I asked around and learned something. However, Im not sure if it will be helpful.


    That uncle isnt the grannys biological son. When her husband passed away, they didnt have any children, so the woman adopted him. They lived together and the uncle settled in her house.


    Also, this morning, his son left the vige with his wife and baby. They seemed to be in a hurry, and they have yet to return.


    Merciful Buddha, said Zen Master Baimei. If Im not wrong, this could be a n he has had for a couple of dozen years.


    I was startled. Zen Master Baimei, what do you mean?


    Zen Master Baimei answered, If that uncle was adopted, he does not have any blood rtions with the vigers. His only rtives are his son and his grandson. Now that they have left, he will use the folks here to block the heavenly punishment.


    Perhaps he had this n in mind ever since he was adopted. Now that the time hase, he will naturally take action.


    All these events made me believe in Zen Master Baimeis exnation.


    However, what was that uncles n, and how was it rted to my grandfather? Why did he invite me here just to shoo me away afterwards?


    I suspected that he lured me here so that he could use me as a hostage to force my grandpas soul toe out.


    After thinking about this, I couldnt control my anger. <em>Damn it! He used me to lure my grandpa... I wish I could dismember him right now!</em>


    Li Mazi, you just said that the uncle dumped his mothers ashes into theke and didnt bury her in that grave with good geomancy. So, was someone else buried in that grave?


    If the granny wasnt buried there, perhaps the stunning female corpse had taken her ce.


    That grave was filled, but I dont know if they buried anybody down there, Li Mazi answered.


    I had a strong premonition that the beautiful corpse was buried there. I suggested checking the grave.


    On the way there, we passed by ake. Li Mazi stopped and said, Thiske is where the uncle dumped his mothers ashes. Oh, the fog above theke seems to have be thicker...


    I nced at theke, and ayer of fog hovered above it. It rippled and surged towards the general direction of the vige.


    I went close to the water and examined it, and my scalp went numb at that instant.


    I felt as if there were hundreds of eyes watching me!


    Dumping a corpse into ake would affect thekes geomancy. It was like throwing a burning match into a dry meadow. It would burn the entire meadow.


    I wondered if the grandmas ashes would awaken the souls sleeping at the bottom of theke.


    Merciful Buddha, what a wicked person! Zen Master Baimei suddenly said. He turned his adoptive mother into a ghost corpse and used her ashes to awaken the souls sleeping under theke to shoulder the heavenly punishment for him. That guy is a monster.


    Whats a ghost corpse? I asked.


    In order to create a ghost corpse, you have to take the soul out of the body. Then, you have to dry up the body and grind it into a powder. This kind of corpse doesnt have a soul but only resentment. It has the power to awaken other ghosts.


    I sighed and said, Hespletely lost his morality.


    That grandma''s body wasnt burned to ashes. Instead, he dried it up and ground into powder. That uncle didnt have any bit of humanity left in him. Although she wasnt his biological mother, she had raised him. Wasnt he grateful for that?


    Zen Master Baimei read the Ksitigarbha Scripture to calm down the souls and prevent them from going crazy and harming the vigers. Then, we went to the grave.


    The grave had been filled, and when I moved forward to check it, I felt an unnatural feeling of coldness. It was so cold that the grass near the grave waspletely frozen.


    Li Mazi and I used iron shovels to dig up the grave.


    The Millennial Icy Sword on my back vibrated as if it had sensed something. It wanted to get out of the sheath as soon as possible!


    I handed it to Chuyi. He was a master in swordsmanship. In the case of a sudden event, he could take action in a timely manner.


    I continued to unearth the grave with Li Mazi.


    Shortly after, we found the coffin. The uncle had discreetly buried it here.


    I dug faster, and the entire coffin was soon revealed. The cold air that exuded from the coffin was really terrifying.


    I didnt waste time and pulled the nails off the coffin, moving the lid aside.


    The moment the coffin lid was lifted, a wave of ck mist gushed out, and a horrible stench came with it.


    I covered my nose and moved aside.


    The mist scattered and quickly disappeared. It seemed it was not poisonous.


    The Millennial Icy Sword started to vibrate harder, and even Chuyi was having trouble holding it in his hands.


    I looked inside the coffin, and after I saw what was inside, I screamed in shock.


    A man wearing ancient golden garmentsy inside the coffin. His eyes were closed, and his face calm. It looked as if he was sleeping.


    <em>Thats the uncle, right? Why is he inside this coffin?</em> My heart raced in fear. Instinctively, I wanted to wake him up.


    Zen Master Baimei advanced forward to stop me. No, dont wake him up! Its best to kill him silently.


    Chuyi came closer and drew the eight-faced Han sword on his back, aiming at the uncles heart and stabbing.


    However, his sword couldnt pierce through the golden clothes. It was like stabbing onto a thick sheet of steel; it created a sharp noise.


    Thats no use, Zen Master Baimei said. This is a gold-jade garment. You have to use the Millennial Icy Sword to pierce through it.


    Chuyi put away his sword and raised the Millennial Icy Sword. He was about to take action.


    But right at that moment, the uncle suddenly opened his eyes. He sneered and shouted, Die!


    Then, the uncle shot up like an undeading back to life and kicked the coffin lid away.


    I jerked back and gazed at him with fearful eyes.


    He didnt seem to have a hunched back anymore. He stood upright and looked imposing in those gold-jade garments. For some reason, each of his eyes now had two pupils, which were moving continuously.


    Twin souls Zen Master Baimei was startled. He actually has twin souls!


    Twin souls? I didnt understand and looked at Zen Master Baimei. Does he have two souls in his body?


    Thats right. Zen Master Baimei nodded and said, A man with twin souls no longer belongs to the three corpses and five ghosts system, and he wont be bound by the principle of death. In other words, no one in this world can kill him.


    Old fool, you do have some knowledge! The uncle sneered. Unfortunately, its toote. When I get through the heavenly punishment, I will draw your souls out and enve you!

 Chapter 273: The Zombie King

    Chapter 273: The Zombie King


    Merciful Buddha. Zen Master Baimei sighed. The sea of sorrow has no end; turn your head, and you shall see the shore. From ancient times until now, evil has never defeated virtue. Youll only harm yourself if you go against the heavens. To be actually willing to sacrifice so many innocent lives just to be immortal...


    You know nothing! screamed the uncle. Ive longed to kill them for a long time. If it werent for them, I wouldnt have be an orphan, and that filthy hag wouldnt have had the chance to raise me. Do you really think that Ive waited for so long just to be immortal? No, youre wrongpletely wrong! I wanted to trigger the heavenly punishment and shift it onto those ignorant fools. They should all taste the heavenly punishment. All of them must die!


    The uncle gnashed his teeth in anger. It was enough to show how much he hated those people.


    Why do you hate them so much? I asked. Although they are not your real family, that granny raised you. Arent you grateful that she took care of you?


    I should feel grateful? The uncleughed mockingly. No way! She raised me just to lessen her guilt. She was the cause of my parents deaths!


    The uncle became angrier as he talked. Eventually, he started screaming in rage.


    I could tell that there was more to this story.


    I took a deep breath. The world is fair. Virtue has its rewards, and evil has its retribution. If you feel this is not the case, its because judgement hasnt been passed down yet. If you continue on this path, youll fail and wont be able to take revenge.


    The uncle smiled coldly. Enough of this nonsense! Its been years, and those vigers have been living a happy life. Nothing happened; theres no justice in this world!


    Zen Master Baimei said, Benefactor, if you dont mind, please share your story with us. Perhaps we can help you clear your doubts. If we consider what youre doing to be fair, we wont stop you.


    The uncle said, Good. Youd better get out of here after Im done!


    His story went back to forty years ago.


    At that time, the uncle was just a ten-year-old kid whose parents were famous sorcerers. They wandered around the country and worked their way up to fame.


    The force backing up his parents was the Longquan Vi.


    One day, they brought him on their mission, which was to destroy a zombie in this vige to protect the folks here.


    Although they said that they would kill the zombie to protect the vigers, they actually wanted to capture it and refine its body to extract the zombie oil. This oil was valuable to the Longquan Vi.


    Of course, since they hade to save the situation, the two were weed in the vige.


    However, after they had trapped the zombie into a well-arranged formation, they discovered that the zombie was wearing some gold-jade garments. From the eight-wed golden dragon on the clothes, they knew that this zombie used to be a member of the royal family. He was either the Emperor or a prince.


    Even more unexpected was the fact that the zombie had almost condensed a corpse core. If it sucked more blood from those vigers, it could perhaps be an Immortal Zombie!


    The Immortal Zombie was the strongest type of zombie. If the Longquan Vi could get one, it would surely increase their power.


    The two then reported the news to the Longquan Vi and soon received a reply. No matter the price, they had to turn that corpse into an Immortal Zombie and then tame it.


    They asked the vigers to leave. A group of strong men remained with them because they were told they needed their Yang energies to subdue the zombie.


    In truth, they wanted to use the blood of those men to help the zombie be stronger.


    However, when they were about to seed in deceiving the young men to enter the magic formation and be a delicious meal for the zombie, a mysterious man showed up. He broke the formation and let the zombie escape. Then, he told the vigers the truth. The vigers were enraged and captured the uncles parents.


    Although his parents were sorcerers, they specialized in dealing with ghosts and monsters. They couldnt defend themselves when several hundred vigers surrounded and attacked them. In the end, they were beaten to death by that group of ignorant folks


    Since the zombie had been wounded during the process, the mysterious man got rid of it.


    The uncle watched his parents getting killed, and he vowed to take revenge. However, he hadnt received any training back then, so it wasnt easy for him to beat the vigers.


    Since he had followed his parents around, he knew a few things. He decided to learn and practice the soul-nurturing technique his parents had left him. Then, when the time was right, he would trigger the heavenly punishment and make it downpour on those vigers.


    Many of the vigers that had killed his parents back then were no longer alive, but that couldnt cool down the me of anger in the uncles heart. He eventually decided to turn his adoptive mothers corpse into a ghost corpse and summon the souls of the dead vigers to make them shoulder the heavenly punishment.


    When the heavenly punishment descended, not only would the living folks die, but the dead folks would also have their souls vanquished.


    He had two reasons for luring my grandpas soul here and swallowing him.


    The first reason was that my grandpa had been a top-tier otherworldly merchant when alive. He had a powerful soul, which made it suitable to cultivate twin souls.


    The second reason was that the mysterious man that killed the zombie and ruined their n back then was my grandpa. Hed indirectly caused the death of the uncles parents!


    I didnt expect that my grandpa was already at odds with the Longquan Vi. No wonder those people were keeping an eye on me.


    Now that I thought about it, the people from the Longquan Vi had a lot of chances to kill me. However, they let me off. It seemed they kept me alive so that I could lure my grandpa out.


    The Longquan Vi lost two experts, which enraged them quite a bit. They wanted to send someone to take revenge, but I stopped them. I pledged that I would do it with my abilities. I had to kill the enemy with my own hands! Thats why this vige wasnt erased back then. Ive been waiting for this day for so long. Haha, finally, the time hase


    The uncle shot a cold look at me. As for you, since youre that old mans grandson, you should have been killed too. But someone begged me to show you mercy, so Ill leave you alone this time.


    This man had his mind blinded by hatred, and he had been waiting for dozens of years for this day. I guessed that only Japanese samurais could have such mental fortitude.


    I took a deep breath to calm myself down. Could we defeat him? I was skeptical. After all, cultivating was also some sort of obsession. The stronger the obsession, the farthest one could go


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei also wore strange expressions. It seemed they had the same worries as I did. Quite the contrary, Li Mazi didnt look concerned at all. Perhaps he believed that no one could stop us if we joined hands together.


    Youd better surrender. Although Zen Master Baimei knew it was impossible, he still tried to talk the uncle out of it. This Millennial Icy Sword can break your gold-jade garments. You cant defeat us.


    The uncleughed crazily. Is that so? Come here and show me! I also want to see the power of that Millennial Icy Sword. That old bastard took it from the zombies body, and Im sure it could pierce through the garments in the past. However, Ive reinforced them with my twin souls. Lets see if your Millennial Icy Sword can break through them; I think it cannot!


    At the same time, a bolt of lightning shed across the sky, with thunder following shortly after. The sky darkened, and the cloud turned bigger and bigger. They covered the entire sky and looked as if they were about to fall on our heads.


    Heavenly punishment,e! Haha! The uncleughed crazily. He brought his palms together in front of his chest and made a hand seal with his ring fingers sticking out. He started chanting a spell.


    Rumble!


    The sound of thunder echoed, and dazzling lightning shed in the sky. Then, a bolt of lightning struck the vige.


    I turned to look at the viges general direction.


    The thunderbolt was like a bomb; it destroyed a house, and pieces of debris scattered everywhere. People started screaming in fear.


    A secondter, bean-sized raindrops started to fall from the sky. The droplets weaved into a big and caused my skin to ache as they hit me.


    Buddha is merciful, but he can be terrifying when hes enraged! Zen Master Baimei shouted. Today, I will not abstain from killing!


    Zen Master Baimei was enraged. He flicked his sleeve and used his prayer beads as a weapon while fighting with the uncle.


    Chuyi also wielded the Millennial Icy Sword and dashed forward.


    Li Mazi, hurry! Gather the vigers and bring them to an empty area. They must avoid the lightning strikes! I screamed before joining the fight.


    Li Mazi nodded and then rushed away.


    At this moment, a lightning strike hit theke. Immediately after, the sad shrills of ghosts arose; all our negative emotions were amplified.


    Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei were locked inbat with the uncle. Zen Masters prayer beads created a golden swastika that wrapped around the uncle. However, thetter didnt dodge and kept striking. His gold-jade garments were really powerful, and Zen Master Baimeis beads couldnt damage them.


    At the same time, the Millennial Icy Sword in Chuyis hand created an ice wall that pressed toward the uncle.


    Although the uncle was confident that his gold-jade garments wouldnt lose to the Millennial Icy Sword, he didnt dare to be careless. After all, even if the sword couldnt break through his armor, it could still injure him. He dodged the attack and tried to snatch the sword from Chuyis hand.


    I seized the opportunity to attack with my Sirius Whip. Rip him apart!


    My sudden appearance surprised the uncle and forced him to retreat. Chuyi seized the opportunity to thrust the Millennial Icy Sword towards his heart!

 Chapter 274: The Icy Sword Breaking Through the Golden Garments

    Chapter 274: The Icy Sword Breaking Through the Golden Garments


    ng!


    The ear-piercing sounds of metals shing together echoed.


    I checked the uncles chest. The Millennial Icy Sword had left a dent on his upper garment, but it didnt look serious.


    I took a deep breath. This gold-jade clothing was really formidable. Chuyis previous stab was strong enough to pierce through steel, but it couldnt damage this thin-looking gold-jade garment.


    Terrifying thunderbolts crashed without end. A big fire burned inside the vige, and even the rain was unable to put it out.


    People screamed and scattered around the vige. Cattle and poultries also shrilled in fright. Coupled with the cries of ghosts came from theke, the scene looked like hell on earth.


    However, it further stimted the uncle, who recovered and started to attack. All of you must die! I want to take revenge! Ill do it with my own hands. Haha! You all have to die!


    He hadpletely lost his mind, and there were only murderous thoughts on his mind. If he killed one person, hed feel rxed. If he killed two people, hed feel even better. Thats why he wanted to kill more and more


    It didnt look like Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi could handle him anymore, and I couldnt find an opportunity to join the battle, either. His movements were so fast that we couldnt lock him down. We could only dodge his attacks and hope to sneak on him.


    His twin souls were really formidable. Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi were forced to back off. In the end, they fell to the ground and spurted a mouthful of blood.


    The uncleughed evilly. Haha, youre too weak. I trained myself whenever I had free time, and Ive done that for dozens of years. Do you know how hard I trained during these years? Haha,e at me!


    The uncle suddenly faced the sky and screamed. He threw both of his hands into the air. A lightning strike fell down and hit his body.


    When the lightning struck him, electricity sparked and crawled all over his body. He screamed in pain and dropped on one knee. However, he got up shortly after.


    Zen Master Baimei sighed and said, He dares to use heavenly punishment to tame his twin souls. Just how strong is this man?


    Chuyi looked desperate. Hes too strong. Im afraid we cant stop him.


    I retorted, That might not be the case!


    What do you mean? Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi turned to look at me.


    I smiled and grabbed the Millennial Icy Sword. If the Millennial Icy Sword absorbs the energy from the lightning, will it be able to deal with him?


    While the monk and the Daoist priest exchanged looks, I grabbed the icy sword and raised it high in the sky to attract the lightning.


    Immediately after, a powerful lightning strike descended from the sky, aiming at the Millennial Icy Sword.


    I knew that my body couldnt resist the heavenly punishment. After I raised the sword to attract lightning, I quickly loosened my grip and rolled away from the attack range.


    The Millennial Icy Sword got hit and remained suspended in the air, discharging electricity from time to time.


    Thats a good method. Zen Master Baimei smiled and said, Did you already have this n in mind?


    I said with a smile, My grandpa just told me.


    When I said that, a shadow slowly detached from the Millennial Icy Sword. It hovered in the air while holding the Millennial Icy Sword. The murderous aura exuding from its body awed all the people present.


    Still insisting on walking on the wrong path, are we? said the shadow. His voice was ethereal, but it even suppressed the loud thunder.


    After hearing the hoarse voice, the uncle couldnt help but shiver. He worriedly looked at the shadow.


    Then, his face began to twist. Its been one thousand years, and youre still this stubborn! Good, we shall put an end to this matter today!


    With that, the uncle dashed toward the Millennial Icy Sword.


    The shadow holding the Millennial Icy Sword snorted. You overestimate yourself.


    Right after, it also sprinted forward. The duo was quickly entangled in a fight. Dust and sand swirled up alongside sparks of electricity and fire.


    I stared at the scene and dropped my jaw in shock. They were too incredible, much more intimidating than the characters in Kung Fu movies!


    Lightning strikes came one after another, and the vige soon turned into a sea of fire. I wondered if Li Mazi and the vigers had left already.<em></em>


    Anyway, there was a big gap between us and those two, and it was impossible for our group to interfere. Chuyi and Zen Master Baimei directly sat on their spots and chanted some spells to support the shadow.


    I opened my eyes wide and tried to understand how the fight was going.


    Eventually, after a horrible shrill, three shadows appeared before my eyes. They crashed onto the ground with a loud thud.


    One of them was the uncle, and he dug a big hole in the ground as hended.


    At this moment, his body was covered with wounds. The gold-jade garments on his body were also gone.


    When I turned to look at the battlefield, I saw that the Millennial Icy Sword had stabbed through the gold-jade garments, pinning them onto the ground and suppressing them with cold air.


    As for the other two shadows


    As I had expected, the other two shadows were the twin souls of the uncle, who had now left his body. One of them was my grandpa, and the other was the granny.


    The old woman looked really weak as her figure hovered in the air. She looked as though she could vanish at any time.


    My grandpa looked better. He stood firmly with his hands sped behind his back. His face beamed at me.


    Benefactor Zhang, we meet again. Zen Master Baimei smiled and greeted my grandfather. Why do you still linger in the mortal world instead of heading to the Netherworld?


    Haha. My grandpa said, This kiddo hasnt given me a great-grandson yet. How can I leave for the Netherworld just yet?


    I couldnt help butugh. My grandpa was dead, but he still wanted to see his great-grandson.


    I was so happy that I had tears in my eyes. I walked up to him, then got on my knees. Grandpa!


    Kid, get up. When he saw me, his voice softened. Youve finally be an otherworldly merchant. Youre doing well, and you didnt embarrass our Zhang family.


    I forced a smile. Grandpa, youve never left, right?


    Im now a messenger of the Netherworld, and I can freely move in the world of the living. Kid, do you remember what Ive told you?


    What is that, grandpa? I was somewhat confused.


    When that girl gives you a baby, dont forget to bring him to my grave. Anyway, Ive used a lot of my energy, and I need to find a good ce to rest. Chuyi, please take care of him. Grandpa waved his hand faintly.


    Chuyi nodded and said, Senior, dont worry.


    After talking to us, my grandfather left silently.


    I had a lot of things I hadnt told him yet, so I called his name and chased after him.


    However, Zen Master Baimei stopped me. Dont follow him. His soul is really feeble right now, and he cant stay with the heavenly punishment here.


    I was gloomy. Zen Master Baimei, will I meet my grandfather again?


    Zen Master Baimei nodded and said, Of course. I didnt expect that he had nned this far. I was really amazed.


    Whats a messenger of the Netherworld? I asked.


    As you might know, some people have the ability to peer into the world of the dead, said the monk. Your grandfather is the opposite, and he can peer into the world of the living. He cane to our world to deliver messages from the deceased to their families.


    I nodded and still felt pensive. Then, I turned to look at the uncle.


    The uncle absentmindedly looked at the gold-jade garments. He looked dejected and wanted to secretly pick up the garments. I rushed to stop him.


    I didnt try to be polite and kicked him away. You still havent epted your defeat?! You really are shameless!


    The uncle looked desperate. Why did ite to this? Ive cultivated for more than forty years, devoting my life to this cause. Is this what I get in exchange? Why are the heavens so blind?!


    Zen Master Baimei brought his palms together in front of his chest. Merciful Buddha, if you continue to walk on the path of evil, you will never ascend or achieve what you desire. If you had used this obsession to follow a good path, you would have gained great achievements already.


    You old bastard, its all your fault! fumed the uncle. If it werent for you, how could I fail?!


    Merciful Buddha, you still refuse toe to your senses. It seems Ill have to judge you in ce of the heavens. Zen Master Baimei picked up the Millennial Icy Sword and walked toward the uncle, Benefactor, you should end things by yourself!


    Then, he threw the sword in front of the uncle.

 Chapter 275: The Truth Is Revealed

    Chapter 275: The Truth Is Revealed


    The uncle sneered and said in a mocking tone, Bald bastard, Im not done yet! Come, fight me!


    Zen Master Baimei walked up to him while wearing a helpless expression. Then, he whipped the uncle with his prayer beads, making him shriek and fall to the ground.


    Merciful Buddha. Are you still not willing toe to your senses?


    Damn you!


    Zen Master Baimei whipped him again. Do you still want to resist?


    I was speechless. Zen Master Baimeis way of converting people was really special.


    The uncle was enraged; he grabbed the Millennial Icy Sword and struggled to get up. He still wanted to fight Zen Master Baimei.


    However, Zen Master Baimei attacked him before he could get up. It seems Ill have to work hard today. Ill hit you until youe to your senses!


    I almostughed. At this moment, Zen Master Baimei didnt look like a senior monk but a thug.


    The uncles attempt to defy the heavens had failed, so the heavenly punishment stopped. From a distance, I saw a group of vigers run toward us with Li Mazi in the front.


    When Li Mazi saw the uncles swollen and bruised face, he was delighted. Tch, you were so intimidating earlier. What happened to you now?


    Uncle, did you really want to harm us? asked a young man as he walked out of the group. That grandma raised you, and the other vigers helped you every time. Yet, you nned to kill us all! How could you be so heartless?


    It seemed Li Mazi had told the vigers the truth; they were here to demand justice.


    The uncle snorted. Haha, is that so? I should be grateful for the meals youve given me after you killed my parents?


    After hearing the uncles words, the vigers quieted down and exchanged guilty looks.


    You cant me this on us, said an old man from the crowd. If your parents hadnt nned to put innocent people to death, we wouldnt have punished them. Moreover, their deaths were an ident.


    The old man had joined the zombie hunt back then. He was one of the men the uncles parents had chosen to be the zombies meal.


    With my grandpas help, they eventually confined the zombie in a five-spirit coffin and evicted the uncles parents. They also forced the couple to make a pledge that they would never return to retaliate against the vigers.


    However, the couple didnt care about the vow and didnt want to lose the Immortal Zombie. Later on, they sneaked into the vige and discreetly went to the cemetery where they kept the five-spirit coffin. They wanted to release the zombie.


    Nevertheless, they carelessly alerted the people standing watch. Feeling enraged, the vigers locked up the couple.


    Although it was an era of unrest and the people werent really educated, the vigers understood that they would end up in jail if they killed the couple. As such, they didnt n to harm them and decided to hand them to the police the next morning.


    However, when they went to check on the prisoners the next day, they were surprised to find out they were dead. There were zombie bites on their bodies.


    The vigers were frightened and immediately buried the corpse.


    Then, they found that the zombies stomach had been cut open. Inside the stomach was a ck sword. The ck sword had carvings of dragon scales, and it released cold energy. Anybody who approached the sword would shiver.


    The folks knew it wasnt a normal sword, so they invited my grandfather back.


    When my grandfather discovered that the folks had killed the couple, he was furious. However, since he knew that they didnt do it on purpose, he let go of the matter and asked the folks to take care of the couples son. He took the ck sword with him and burned the zombie and the couples remainster that night.


    Although the couple had reaped what they sowed, the vigers still felt guilty; it had tortured them for years. What they could do to atone for their sins was to offer joss sticks to the dead couple and take care of their son.


    The uncle listened to the story and was heartbroken. Then, he red at the vigers. Ignorant fools, my parents just wanted the Millennial Icy Sword in the zombies body, but you killed them! Do you really think that this will be enough to atone for your sins? You didnt just kill two people. You destroyed a family and a kids future!


    The old man sighed. These past years, Ive felt very guilty because of that event. If you want to take revenge, pour it on me. I dont want these innocent folks to get involved. The young ones werent even born at that time.


    The group of people was dead silent. Their eyes fixated on the uncle.


    The uncle looked at the ground andughed mournfully. Forget it. Hate will only breed more hate, and there will be no end to it. We of the Longquan Vi arent that unreasonable. I just hope that my parents will forgive you.


    Then, he got up from the ground and limped away. Looking at his lonely back, I felt sorry for him.


    After he had disappeared into the dark, I asked the folks to go home. They needed to fix their burned houses.


    No one said a word. They just turned around and left.


    I picked up the gold-jade garments and the Millennial Icy Sword. More than half of the cold energy exuding from the sword was gone. In this scorching weather, a chill seeped under my skin when I held the sword in my hands. It felt cool andfortable.


    I handed the gold-jade garments and the Millennial Icy Sword to Zen Master Baimei. Do you know the background stories of these things?


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. He looked pensive as he gazed at the Liu character engraved on the garments.


    From that Liu, I could also guess the origin of this set of precious clothes.


    China had five thousand years of history, but there was only one story about a set of gold-jade garments. Its owner was Liu Sheng, Prince of Western Han. [1] The gold-jade clothes looked very ancient and had the character Liu on it; there could hardly be any mistake.


    ording to historical records, Liu Sheng was licentious and brutal. He slept with women every day, and he didnt care about the affairs of the imperial court. He ended up fathering more than one hundred and twenty kids during his life.


    Also, because he was very afraid of death, he ordered people to make him a set of gold-jade clothes. He wore it everywhere he went. It was the first gold-jade set of clothes ever made in history. Liu Sheng was the one who invented it.


    Liu Sheng had a half-brother, Liu Pengzu, who waspletely different from him. He cared about politics and the people; he dedicated his entire life to the country. He hated Liu Shengs conduct and quarreled with him many times, but it was of no use.


    Liu Sheng sank into his lust and started abducting women everywhere. Liu Pengzu watched his brother with worry. He knew that if his brother continued this way, the people would be discontented. If that happened, it would lead to a rebellious movement that would threaten the imperial court and the entire country!


    However, Liu Sheng had a hundred thousand elite soldiers and wore a set of gold-jade garments. He wasnt easy to deal with.


    Liu Pengzu found an excellent cksmith and used some cold iron found under an iceberg to forge a cold sword.


    He brought the icy sword with him and went to meet Liu Sheng. He used the excuse that the Western Region had gifted him a group of beauties.


    Liu Sheng was happy, of course. He held a feast to treat Liu Penzu.


    During the feast, when Liu Sheng was charmed by the beautiful women from the Western Region, Liu Pengzu seized the chance to drew his Millennial Icy Sword, stabbing through the gold-jade garment with all his strength. The sword pierced both the garments and Liu Shengs body.


    Liu Pengzu felt very guilty for killing his brother. Eventually, he couldnt bear the mental torment and decided tomit suicide with the same sword.


    However, he knew that Liu Sheng would be full of resentful energy since he had died unjustly; he was likely to turn into a zombieter.


    He didnt want his brother to be burned into ashes, nor did he want his brothers soul to vanish. He left a testament to Emperor Wu and asked him to dress Liu Shengs corpse in the gold-jade garments and seal the Millennial Icy Sword inside his body.


    Liu Sheng had made a lot of enemies while alive. That was why his brother had him wear those gold-jade garments. It was to protect his soul in the Netherworld.


    The Millennial Icy Sword was buried in his stomach so that people could use it in case his corpse transformed into a zombie.


    Eventually, Liu Pengzus premonition came true, and the Millennial Icy Sword served its purpose.


    As for how the gold-jade garments could bewitch people and make them see that beautiful woman, I guessed it was because many beauties had been buried together with Liu Sheng after his death.


    An ancient proverb said that water could raise the ship but also overturn it. The one who obtained peoples hearts could rule the entire world.


    But if you treated your subjects badly, no matter how tough the armor on your body, there would be another Millennial Icy Sword that would stab through your heart!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liu_Sheng,_Prince_of_Zhongshan

 Chapter 276: Longquan Villa from Jiangnan, Zhang Family from Jiangbei

    Chapter 276: Longquan Vi from Jiangnan, Zhang Family from Jiangbei


    I brought the Millennial Icy Sword and the gold-jade garments back with me. Both of them were top-tier otherworldly items, so I was worried that I wouldnt be able to suppress the evil energy within. Something terrible might happen if the items went out of control.


    I wrapped the sword and the clothes then handed them to Zen Master Baimei. I wanted him to take them to Dabei Temple, where he could cleanse the items of their resentful energy.


    Zen Master Baimei readily epted and asked, However, when the resentful energy permeating these otherworldly items is cleansed, they will be normal antiques; their values will decrease greatly. Wont you feel sorry about that?


    I gave a wry smile. How could I not feel sorry about that? However, we have to stay alive in order to use the money. If I be a zombie, everything would be over.


    After seeing off Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi, my life didnt go back to normal as I felt very anxious.


    In the past, I had offended the people from the Longquan Vi because of a jademp. Coupled with the fact that they hated my grandfather and I had ruined their ns for retaliation this time, there was no way they would let me go!


    The Longquan Vi had a lot of despicable people with no sense of shame. If they ambushed me in secret, I would be done for.


    I felt sick of living with so much anxiety every day. I told myself that I would prefer if the people from the Longquan Vi directly came to my door and had an upfront battle with me.


    In the end, it really happened. I was very surprised as it didnt seem to conform to their style!


    That night, while I was watching my shop, a man wearing sunsses and a nice suit drove a Mercedes-Benz to my ce.


    He greeted me with great manners. Mr. Zhang, good evening. Ive been sent by Uncle Duan from the Longquan Vi.


    After hearing the name Longquan Vi, my nerves instantly tensed. However, my face remained calm. The Longquan Vi? Ive been wanting to meet you guys for a long time. I wonder why you havee to my humble shop today?


    He faintly smiled, just as if he had seen through my fake calm demeanor. Mr. Zhang, theres no need to panic. We dont mean harm. We just want to cooperate with you.


    Cooperate with me? I was confused because I didnt know what this man nned to do. What kind of cooperation?


    Uncle Duan wants to meet with you tomorrow, Mr. Zhang. If you have time, pleasee and attend this banquet.


    Then, the man in the suit handed me an invitation card. I hope Mr. Zhang will give us face!


    I received the invitation card while still puzzled. Then, the man politely excused himself.


    I suspected that their n was to make me lower my guard and then catch me off guard. However, after Id checked all around me, I didnt find anything strange.


    The more normal everything was, the more anxious I felt. My hand that held the card was sweating. That did not even seem an invitation card, but a summon from hell instead! <em></em>


    I was afraid that they might hurt me at the banquet tomorrow. However, if I didnt go, I woulde across as disrespectful to the people of the Longquan Vi. It would give them another reason to kill me. If that happened, things would be even more serious.


    After thinking about the banquet, I couldnt sleep well. Early the next morning, I dragged my exhausted body to Li Mazis ce. Unexpectedly, Ru Xue came to open the door for me.


    Her hair was disheveled and she didnt wear makeup, but she still looked beautiful. I was surprised that Li Mazi and Ru Xue had already developed their rtionship up to this point.


    When Ru Xue saw me, she blushed. Brother-inw, w-why have youe here so early in the morning?


    Im here for an inspection, obviously. I half-joked.


    Ru Xue fumed and stomped her foot. Hmph, Im going to ignore you.


    Then, she went back inside to change her clothes.


    Li Mazi saw my face and knew that something was wrong. He quickly invited me inside. What happened?


    I told him about the banquet.


    After Li Mazi heard the story, he frowned and said, What are those bastards up to? I think you shouldnt go. Otherwise, I can just throw you in jail tomorrow. Lets see what they can do to you in there.


    Can''t you think of a decent n? I threw Li Mazi a sidelong nce. The people from the Longquan Vi are very powerful. Im sure they have enough money to buy both the cops and the gangsters. As soon as you put me there, they will find a way to kill me.


    Li Mazi scratched his head. So, are you really going to join the feast? Perhaps you ask Fengshen Nana to go with you. Shes a cop, after all. Even though those people arewless, they shouldnt dare to harm you in front of a cop, right?


    You dont understand. Our otherworldly-item circle isnt different from the underworld. If I involve the cops in this matter, there will be more trouble. You and I should go together. Even if they want to harm me, I can only brace myself and go.


    Li Mazi pondered for a while and nodded. Then, he equipped himself from heads to toe with all kinds of hidden weapons.


    After looking at the small weapons, I waspletely speechless. Li Mazi, where did you get these things?


    I bought them from Taobao.


    Those hidden weapons were just useless toys. If the people of the Longquan Vi found them, there would be even more trouble. I told Li Mazi to get rid of them before we left.


    The Longquan Vi was filthy rich, and they had several five-star hotels and restaurants in our city. We arrived at a hotel called Great Imperial Hotel, one of the most famous hotel chains in the country. We directly went to the best box and felt awed after looking at the luxurious interior.


    We felt very small inside thevish private room. The decorations were sumptuous, with wallpaper worth dozens of thousands of renminbi. There was also a goat fur carpet and a real leather sofa.


    An old man in a Tang suit sat on the sofa. He held a cane and wore a weird smile on his face; he gave us quite a bit of pressure. I had prepared some strong words, but I didnt have the guts to say them right now. I couldnt do anything else than give him a sheepish smile. Good morning, Uncle Duan.


    Sure enough, each new generation excels the previous one. Uncle Duan suddenly sighed. I guessed that he referred to me ruining their ns again and again.


    Uncle Duan, youre overpraising us, blurted Li Mazi. Were just fooling around to make ends meet. We dont have any real skills. We cant bepared to your good self.


    Uncle Duan guffawed. I already knew that the kid from the Zhang family had a servile assistant, but meeting someone in person is better than hearing rumors about them. Your words have really pleased me.


    Li Mazi gave an embarrassed smile. From Uncle Duans words, we could tell that he was an experienced man; he had us investigated and could easily see through our tricks.


    Even though I had encountered a formidable opponent, my heart was unexpectedly calm. Things were already set in stone, and no matter how hard I tried, I couldnt change the oue. It was better to calm down and ept the situation.


    After making up my mind, I sat opposite to Uncle Duan and ignored Li Mazis frightened look. Uncle Duan, why did you want to see me?


    Uncle Duan wasnt mad at me for asking such an impolite question. However, for some reason, his face turned serious and sorrowful. Kid, do you know the story between your Zhang family from Jiangbei and my Longquan Vi?


    I nodded and said, I know some of it.


    What you know is just the tip of the iceberg, said Uncle Duan. Since ancient times, the Zhang family from Jiangbei has been our Longquan Vis rival. Although the Zhang family has been in seclusion, their impact on our Longquan Vi has never ceased


    So Uncle Duan, you wanted to see me to settle this grudge? I just wanted to get straight to the matter. I didnt have the time for a history lesson.


    Uncle Duanughed. Settle this grudge? Haha, even if I wanted to do that, I wouldn''t settle it with you. Your family is just one of the various branches of the Zhang family. Moreover, your family inheritance seems to have been disrupted. You are not qualified to talk about grudges with our Longquan Vi.


    I was surprised. <em>In that case, what does he want?</em>


    Let me finish. Uncle Duan continued, Most of our Longquan Vis influence is concentrated in territories to the West of Mount Tai, and we have nothing in the East. Do you know why? Because the East side is where the Zhang family is located, in Jiangbei. Although the Zhang family has been an enemy of Longquan Vi, we have always kept our word and never intruded on each others territory. Although the Zhang family has gone into seclusion these years, our Longquan Vi has never sent anybody to the East side of Mount Tai.


    He continued, Im meeting you today to make a business deal with you. Go to the East side of Mount Tai and find me an otherworldly item. The region to the East of Mount Tai has always been forbiddennd to our Longquan Vi; we cant go there.


    I was startled. I had ever imagined that the Zhang family I came from was this powerful, to the point that they could even contend with the Longquan Vi. More importantly, they had an entire area under their control, Jiangbei in this case.


    I had never thought about this before.


    However, Uncle Duan was a cunning man who could easily mix truth with lies. He must have had a purpose for telling me this. I couldnt trust him blindly.


    I took a deep breath. Uncle Duan. To be honest, neither of us is really good at this. Im still a rookie, while my friend relies only on his glib tongue. Im afraid we cant help you.


    Young man, being humble is good but too humble isnt good. Uncle Duan continued, This is your opportunity to help yourself. After all, if the Longquan Vi decides to deal with you, youll die; theres no doubt about that. However, if you help me with this, I can erase the grudge between you and the Longquan Vi.


    I kept silent. Although Uncle Duan sounded sincere, the threat in his voice was clear. It made my heart shiver.


    The Longquan Vi was too big, and I couldnt fight them on my own. I knew that I had only two options.


    The first option was to do as Uncle Duan had requested me. Regardless of what otherworldly item it was or what dangers it brought, I would find it and give it to Uncle Duan. Then, I would be able to rx for the rest of my life. I would no longer need to be worried about the Longquan Vi.


    The second option was to reject his request. But if I did that, I was afraid that I wouldnt even be able to reach the hotel lobby.


    After considering things, I made up my mind and asked, Uncle Duan, what do you want me to find for you?

 Chapter 277: Corpse Scattered Essence

    Chapter 277: Corpse Scattered Essence


    Corpse Scattered Essence, said Uncle Duan. You know about it, right?


    I was startled. That thing actually exists?


    Uncle Duan smiled helplessly. You thought it didnt exist? Haha, did I get the wrong man here?


    No, no. You didnt, Sir, Li Mazi blurted as he was worried that Uncle Duan would lose his trust in us and directly end our lives here. Uncle Duan, if you have anything you want to advise, please do tell.


    Ive got the location. Its around one hundred and fifty kilometers to the East of Mount Tai. Theres a ce called Heavenly Dragon Lake. Go there and you will find the Corpse Scattered Essence. Uncle Duan urged, We cant dy this. You guys better go now!


    May I ask why you need to find the Corpse Scattered Essence? I asked.


    From what I knew, the only function of the Corpse Scattered Essence was to tempt malicious ghosts. It didnt have any positive functions. The Longquan Vi was very rich, and they didnt need toy their eyes on this low-level ything.


    To save a life, answered Uncle Duan.


    <em>To save someone, huh?</em>


    After looking at Uncle Duans expression, I knew he wouldnt disclose any more details. I was toozy to pry, so I left with Li Mazi.


    When we got out of the hotel, I hadnt gotten ahold of myself yet. I turned around and saw that no one was following us. Finally, I exhaled in relief.


    Li Mazi couldnt hold it anymore and asked, Little Brother Zhang, whats this Corpse Scattered Essence? Why havent I heard of it before?


    Get in the car. Well talkter. I told him, Its hard to exin in a few sentences.


    Li Mazi nodded and started the engine. When we returned to my shop, I quickly prepared some items and headed to the Heavenly Dragon Lake.


    I was still a little worried, though. <em>Since we are heading to the East of Mount Tai, wed enter the territory of the Zhang family in Jiangbei. Im a descendant from one of the Zhang familys lines... When I reach Jiangbei, would I anger the Zhang family? How would they treat me?</em>


    I felt a lot of pressure; this was a dangerous one. What we had to face wasnt just the otherworldly item, but also the Zhang family in Jiangbei.


    Thus, I decided to be very low-key this time.


    On the way there, Li Mazi asked me about the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    The reason I thought the Corpse Scattered Essence didnt exist was that its origin was very strange. The Wild Fox Folklores recorded that the Corpse Scattered Essence was the essence of ten thousand human souls materialized into a bead. They had gone from spirit form to physical form.


    If a lot of souls were tied and stacked together in one ce, the resources at their disposal would eventually run out. As such, these souls would slowly die.


    However, since they were souls, they wouldnt vanish. Instead, they turned into a granr matter. These beads were the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    I didnt believe that spiritual beings could materialize. Metaphysics was really mysterious, but it was also a science-based subject. A spirit being materializing didnt follow thew of conservation of energy. That was why I deemed that it was just a hoax.


    However, Uncle Duan didnt seem to be lying.


    After a night of driving, we followed the directions and found the Heavenly Dragon Lake at noon.


    It was the first time I had seen the Heavenly Dragon Lake, and I was charmed by its beautiful sights.


    The sky was clear, and the Heavenly Dragon Lake looked like a crystal mirror with lucid blue water. A breeze blew above theke, which swayed the nts that grew around it; it looked like a natural, green belt. An islet was situated in the middle of theke, and the scene looked like paradise on earth.


    Around three kilometers away was a vige. The vige was home to some children who often came to theke to y. When the adults finished their work, they also came here to catch some fish. At this moment, we saw some people fish from the islet. Everything looked ordinary andfortable. It was really hard to associate such a wonderful ce to a mass grave.


    Thiske was vast, and it would take one or two years to blindly search for the Corpse Scattered Essence here. Uncle Duan wouldnt agree to that, nor did I have so much time to waste around here.


    I needed to ask around for more information about this Heavenly Dragon Lake and analyze it.


    At this moment, the two fishermen on the islet reached thekeside. They looked cautious when they saw us. After all, we were two strangers. Before we could greet them, they approached us.


    Who are you? asked the older one. Why have youe here?


    Sir, good day! Were backpackers, said Li Mazi with a smile. He offered them cigarettes and said, Were traveling around.


    You want to find something here, dont you? The men took the cigarettes from Li Mazi. After that, their attitudes toward us lightened.


    His casual question raised concerns in my heart. <em>Does he know anything about the Corpse Scattered Essence? Did he know that we were here to find it?</em>


    Li Mazi looked puzzled and asked, Sir, what do you mean? I dont understand.


    The old man standing next to the beefy, younger man snorted. Dont pretend. Ive seen a lot of folks like you. Youre here to raid an ancient tomb, right? Well, that tomb has sunk and the items were taken long ago. Youre way toote.


    An ancient tomb?As soon as he said that, I knew there was a story behind it. I took out five-hundred renminbi and handed it to them. Although I didnt have a silver tongue, there wasnt anything money couldnt solve in this world.


    Sir, Ill be honest with you! Were from the Criminal Police Department. We already know that an ancient tomb was robbed here. We have to track down the criminals. If you can provide us with more clues, the five-hundred yuan will be your reward.


    Then, I shed them the police ID cards.


    We often carried these fake IDs with us because it always worked. We had used them five or six times already. It was more than enough to deceive people in rural viges.


    As soon as they heard that we were criminal police and that we were here to investigate the ancient tomb case, the two were scared. They shook their heads and said, We dont know much. That ancient tomb was discovered one or two years ago. You shouldnt investigate it


    Then, they turned around and left.


    From their panic-stricken faces, I thought of a possibility. Could it be that the ancient tomb was robbed by the locals?


    When we expressed that we wanted to investigate, they became scared.


    Li Mazi had to stop them and said, Sir, dont worry. If the ancient tomb is within your viges area, its a shared property of your vige. ording to thew, everything inside the ancient tomb will belong to your vige. Its not a crime that the folks here took the antiques from the tomb. Several days ago, we arrested a tomb raider. He said that he robbed a tomb here. Thats why wevee to investigate. If his stolen goods are from the tomb you mentioned, we would like to give them back to the vige.


    The two then exhaled in relief. The older one fumed, No wonder there werent many items inside. It turns out someone had robbed it before us. Officer, you must interrogate that little thief! You must force him to spit out all of the goods!


    I nodded to show him that I agreed. Then, I asked them to tell us the stories rted to the Heavenly Dragon Lake and the ancient tomb. I told them not to miss any details, even if they seemed small.


    We then learned that several years ago, this Heavenly Dragon Lake wasnt a bigke like the one before us. It was just an ordinary ditch.


    At that time, the vigers didnt find anything strange about the small ditch. However, after a fellow identally fished up two y pots from the ditch, a rumor spread throughout the vige. It was said that an ancient tomb was hidden in this ditch.


    For generations, the vigers had exploited the ce. They hunted in the forests and mountains and fished in the rivers. The folks had almost depleted every natural resource they had here. Years ago, they could still find some precious herbs to sell. But now, those herbs and even the wild animals were all gone. The only source of ie they could harvest from the mountains was from mushrooms, but it wasnt big money.


    Of course, they couldnt let this chance slip away. A mountain of gold seemed to have appeared in this normal-looking ditch!


    Groups of people immediately began to dig up the ditch and tried to unearth the ancient tomb.

 Chapter 278: Water Ghosts Tomb

    Chapter 278: Water Ghosts'' Tomb


    The old man said that the scene at the time was grandiose because the entire vige had taken action. Around one hundred people surrounded the ditch. Although there were so many of them, no one bothered catching a single fish!


    However, the soil in the ditch was really tough. The folks iron hoes and shovels werent able to dig it up. It was specialpacted soil used to build ancient tombs. Without a special technique that professional tomb raiders possessed, they wouldnt be able to do anything.


    However, the vigers weren''t satisfied. Some people came up with the idea of using dynamite. Since they used to use dynamite to catch fish, they still had some left over.


    However, the dynamite sticks werent strong enough. They exploded the tomb for a whole three days just to blow up the surface. After they made a hole in the ground, they finally found the entrance. It was a corridor made up of blue bricks. The entrance was positioned around thirty-degrees downward.


    Two brave young men followed the corridor and entered the tomb. Shortly after, they encountered a wall that blocked the corridor. Ordinary shovels and pliers couldnt open it.


    Feeling helpless, they eventually had to use the dynamite sticks again.


    What theyd encountered was probably a reinforced wall. These types of walls were at least half a meter thick. I guessed it would be really hard to blow up even with dynamite sticks.


    Then, the reinforced wall burst open with an earth-shaking explosion. At the same time, water started to gurgle inside the ancient tomb. The ground shook so hard that the vigers couldnt stand firmly.


    The tremorsted for quite a long time, and water kept oozing out of the ancient tomb. Then, the ancient tomb slowly began to sink.


    They concluded that an underground stream of water had flooded the grave, taking the treasures out was going to be very hard now.


    The only thing they could do was to stand on thend and watch helplessly.


    Since the ancient tomb was sinking, the ditch bottom was revealed. It was full of white bones. Many bones were buried deep into the soil, and some had yet toe up.


    The vigers were all scared as there could be a mass grave underneath the tomb. It was too perilous to raid this tomb; those bones had deeply scared them. Eventually, they all left the ancient tomb.


    After they left the tomb, theke that was just a little distance away from the ditch suddenly had arge swell of water; it crazily flooded the ce. Shortly after, it covered the entire tomb. Currently, the tomb was the islet in the middle of theke.


    The small ditch near theke no longer had a border with theke. Together, they became the Heaven Dragon Lake we saw before us today.


    Since the vigers sustained themselves with fishing, most of them knew how to dive. Some reckless men went into the tomb and stole the goods from the grave.


    However, the goods were just a few in number, while skeletons were scattered everywhere. If it werent for some chambers alongside the tomb that kept several gold-threaded wooden coffins, they would have thought that this a mass grave instead of an ancient tomb.


    But the greedy vigers didnt stop just because of the empty interior of the tomb; they removed everything of value. The gold-threaded cedar coffins, the few jars, the bronze tools, and even the gold-ted teeth from the skulls were taken away.


    After they got the items, most of them were satisfied, but there were still some bold and young men who wanted more. At midnight, they entered the tomb one more time.


    However, those young fellows didnt have good luck. When they got into the tomb, they felt dizzy and hazy. Everything became blurry. If they continued to dive further, they wouldnt have the strength to return. Left with no choice, they decided to flee.


    However, the moment they turned around, they heard an uproar. The waters from theke swirled while they kept hearing the noises of men and horses screaming and yelling. When they lowered their heads to check, the scattered skeletons on the ground all rose and stood upright on the ground. The hollow sockets of the skeletons gazed at them while their bony arms wielded weapons. It looked as if they were about to kill the intruders.


    The scene scared the crap out of those young men. They tried to swim up, but the skeletons had already grabbed their feet. Their grip strength was incredible, and the young vigers couldn''t break free.


    The young men opened their eyes wide in fear, thinking that would die there. The tomb was too dangerous!


    While they were feeling desperate, a dazzling column of light shot out from a chamber of the tomb, which illuminated the entire tomb. The men felt rxed and involuntary slumped onto the ground.


    When they got a hold of themselves and looked again, it didnt look like the skeletons had been revived. The remains were still scattered on the ground. Nothing else was strange, either.


    They didnt have the guts to stay, so they all hurried to flee far from the Heavenly Dragon Lake. Later on, they saw some mysterious ck handprints on their bodies.


    The purplish-ck handprints were all over their chests and backs. At first, they thought that it was some water ghosts poison, and they were scared out of their wits.


    But even after several days, nothing had happened to their bodies, so they gradually calmed down.


    I furrowed my brows. The old man said that those young men had the imprints of some water ghosts on their bodies but nothing happened to them... Wasnt that strange in its own way? I was afraid that they had taken the matter too lightly.


    I asked the old man, Are they really all right? Are you nothing has happened to them?


    The old man pointed at the vigorous young man standing next to him. Of course, this fellow is one of them.


    I took a quick nce at the beefy young man. His eyes were clear, and he didnt seem to be under a spell. However, the look in his eyes wasnt sharp. I guessed it was because of the stress he had experiencedtely.


    Just when I was about to tell him that I wanted to see the handprint on his body, the old mans cell phone rang. He took it out and received the call. After a simple greeting, he was startled and froze on the spot. He looked frightened.


    What happened, Sir? I asked him.


    The old man didnt have time to talk to me. When he got a hold of himself, he shrieked then dashed toward the small fishing vige.


    The vigorous young man was also surprised. Old Zhao, what happened?


    Then, he grabbed his and followed closely behind him.


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks, and we also ran after them. My intuition told me that something really bad had happened in the fishing vige. It was probably rted to the ancient tomb.


    Soon after, we entered the vige. Dogs and chickens wandered leisurely around, while some old people were chatting on the main road. Warm sunbeams pierced through canopies of trees, which created beautiful, coin-sized dots on the ground.


    This was a small but peaceful vige.


    However, there was a ce that wasnt quiet. People were crying at one end of the vige. More and more people walked in and out of that courtyard, and Old Zhao also ran to that house.


    When we approached their house, the cries became more pitiful.


    We wanted to enter the house but were stopped at the door.


    What are you doing here?


    I couldnt do anything else but tell them to ask Old Zhao toe out and invite us in.


    Old Zhaos expression turned serious but odd. You guys should leave. This is our viges business. We dont want you, outsiders, to put your noses in this.


    We often work with stuff rted to ancient tombs, and weve knowledge of curses and the likes. Perhaps we can help you with this matter.


    Old Zhao panicked. H-How did you know that we have unleash the curse of the tomb?


    How was I supposed to answer his question? Should I tell him about my family background? I was afraid he wouldnt believe me.


    Li Mazi immediately said, Hmph, you guys have destroyed the tomb of those water ghosts, so its normal that they want to kill you! Without our help, your entire vige wont be able to survive!


    Li Mazi was a quick-learner. Since we had just solved a case that involved a Ghost King, Li Mazi decided to use the story to intimidate the folks.


    I couldnt deny that the effect was really good. Li Mazis story had shocked Old Zhao. After considering things, the old man nodded. All right, you cane in and check. However, dont scream. I dont want you to scare the other folks.


    I nodded. I had experienced so many horrible and tragic events, as well as disgusting and nauseous ones. There was hardly anything that could surprise me at this point.

 Chapter 279: The Bloody Scene

    Chapter 279: The Bloody Scene


    As soon as I reached the door, I smelled the scent of blood. I was startled as such a thick smell could only appear in a murder scene.


    When I pushed the door open, my heart suddenly pounded. Blood was scattered everywhere on the ground. I felt it hard to breathe.


    <em>How many people died here? Is it one or two?</em>


    A mans upper torso was on the bed. His hands were raised, and his face was panic-stricken. Blood was all over his body. This man was cut off at his waist, and his internal organs had spilled on the bed. The cut was neat, just as if it was performed by an extremely sharp weapon.


    The rest of his body was thrown under the bed, and his broken bones stuck out, which looked quite appalling.


    I took two steps back and couldnt bear to look any further.


    Li Mazi pulled my hand and muttered, Little Brother Zhang, check his waist. Do you see that ck handprint?


    I turned to look, but I found nothing. There was no handprint.


    <em>Even if his body is covered in blood, the handprint should still be visible, right? Why did Li Mazi ask me that?</em>


    I clearly saw a ck handprint on his waist. Then, after just a blink of an eye, it disappeared, said Li Mazi. Im not lying.


    Immediately, I recognized the seriousness of the situation. I said to Old Zhao, Mr. Zhao, I have a question. Did this person have a ck handprint too?


    Old Zhao nodded. Yes, he did.


    Can you see if its still there?


    Old Zhao was perplexed but still ran to the corpse and checked. I really admired Old Zhaos courage at this moment. If a normal person saw such a horrible murder scene, they would faint on the spot. It seemed Old Zhao was a man with a story


    Old Zhao checked the corpse, and his expression changed. Thats strange. He used to have one. Where is it now?


    Can you show us the handprint on someone else? I asked. Its very important.


    Old Zhao thought for a bit then nodded resolutely. All right, follow me!


    Then, he led us out of the house.


    I assumed that Old Zhao would bring us to a family nearby. However, he took us to a shabby cottage and asked us to wait inside. He told us that the handprints were a secret. We couldnt see them explicitly.


    I trusted him, so Li Mazi and I sat there and waited.


    However, we had waited for half an hour, but Old Zhao hadnt returned yet. Li Mazi couldnt sit still. He wanted to go out for some fresh air as the stench in this room was really annoying.


    However, when he pushed the door, he noticed that the wooden door was locked from the outside. I turned tense instantly. <em>Damn, they used that same old trick again! Last time, Li Mazi and I were locked in the Temple of Earth, and now, this!</em>


    Li Mazi was enraged and forcefully kicked the wooden door. However, the door was really durable and seemed to have been reinforced. He couldnt kick it open.


    I was also restless and went to help him. However, the door was really tough, so the two of us werent able to kick it open.


    <em>What the hell are they doing? Those bastards have a disaster right above their heads but decided to lock us here?</em>


    Then, I noticed that some of the light that crept into the room through the slit at the door was blocked. I knew someone was watching us discreetly through the wooden door.


    I immediately ran there and called, Fellow, please open the door. I have something important to do.


    The man panicked and ran away. He didnt even turn around to look at us.


    Some vigers passed by our door, and they all seemed flustered. The two of us screamed for help loudly until our voices turned hoarse, but it was of no use. The vigers acted as if they didnt see us.


    They got us! Li Mazi restlessly walked around. This was a trap. Weve entered their trap, and we didnt even know it.


    Lets make a call! Seize the time and make a call, Li Mazi urged. Wheres your phone?


    Its useless, I answered. I already tried. Theres no signal.


    Feeling dispirited, Li Mazi sat next to me. He lowered his head. That Uncle Duan is an old evil man. I bet he was afraid of provoking the Zhang family in Jiangbei and decided to borrow these vigers to kill us. I suspect that those folks were part of his trap.


    However, what was the point of discussing this? We had seen a lot of crazy things and met so many people and experienced all kinds of ups and downs. And now, we were about to be murdered by a group of ignorant people...


    I pulled myself together and asked Li Mazi to stay calm. Rx, well get out of this. Unless they want us to starve to death, Im sure they will open the door. As soon as they open the door, well be saved.


    Although Li Mazi was angry, he couldnt do anything but give me a nod.


    The vigers looked busy. It seemed they were preparing for something.


    <em>Are they preparing for a sacrifice...?</em>


    We waited until sunset, but no one hade to bother us. I felt regret that I didnt eat more earlier. My stomach was gurgling.


    The night fell fast. The room was as dark as ck ink, and the dim moonlight could only enter the room a little; we couldnt see anything. I started to read the sacred text of Daoism to calm down.


    Li Mazi sat down and used a dagger to cut a wooden stick. The only weapon we had was this dagger. Thats why we needed to prepare more weapons. Even if we couldnt escape, we had to defend ourselves!


    The wind rattled the leaves outside our window, but I could still vaguely hear the sounds of the waves sshing from Heavenly Dragon Lake. It was strange, though. We were around two miles away from the Heavenly Dragon Lake. How could the waves be loud enough for us to hear?


    The sound of the wind was mixed with rustling sounds. I stuck my ear to the wooden door to listen to themotions outside.


    I could hear four peopleing from four different directions and leaning against the walls. But they didnt move after that.


    <em>What are they doing?</em>


    While I was thinking, a strange smell dispersed into the small room. It was pungent and made me sneeze several times. Then, I felt dizzy and sleepy


    <em>Damn, someone is trying to put us to sleep!</em> I was startled when I realized how serious the situation was. I rushed to the four corners of the room to check. If there were hoses entering the room, they were definitely sending drugs through those hoses


    Sure enough, we found four hoses sticking into the room; they went through the slits. However, it was toote to stop them. The drug had already affected us. My body felt like jelly, and my eyes blurred. I couldnt even stand straight


    Use... pee to detoxify Li Mazi said drowsily as he unzipped himself. However, as soon as he took his weapon out, he fell onto the ground andid unconscious


    I alsoid down, unable to move. I tried reading the sacred text of Daoism in my head and activated the Peach Soul Flower to keep my head clear. If we both cked out, who knew what they might do to us.


    I didnt know if these two things would work, but I had to try.


    In the end, I was more than happy to know that it worked. I wasnt sure if it was thanks to the Peach Soul Flower or the sacred text of Daoism, but I was able to stay conscious. I couldn''t move my body, but it was better than passing out. Moreover, perhaps my strength could somehow recover as time passed by...

 Chapter 280: Spectral Tomb

    Chapter 280: Spectral Tomb


    Shortly after I copsed, the door sprang open. However, no one entered the cottage; I knew they were checking on us. If we got up now, they would know we werent unconscious and would close the door immediately.


    Since we didnt move, people started to flood in. They talked to one another in low voices.


    Mr. Secretary, is this really all right?


    Of course it is. It was Old Zhaos voice. Otherwise, do you want to be the one to die? If we sacrifice the two of them, we can save the entire vige. Which option do you think is better?


    What if they are really capable? Perhaps they can deal with those damn crystals and no one will be killed.


    You fool, these two are nothing but kids. Do you really think they are some experts? Perhaps they will drag down our entire vige with them. I would rather make them die now.


    Then, they lifted us up and took us out of the cottage.


    Although my consciousness was blurry and I couldnt properly understand their conversation, I could pick out keywords and phrases like, crystals and save the entire vige.


    Those crystals were probably the Corpse Scattered Essence. As for the sentence saving the entire vige, it seemed they already knew that the ancient tomb wanted to kill them all.


    The more I thought about it, the colder my heart became. I was pretty sure that Uncle Duan wanted to use these people to kill us!


    I felt that they put me inside something narrow and made of wood. After theyid me down, I tried to open my eyes. I was shocked to see that it was actually a coffin.


    My vision was blurred, and I couldnt see the real shape of the coffin. However, I could smell the faint aroma that exuded from it.


    Since I took over the otherworldly merchant business from my grandfather, I had to deal with many real antiques. Old wooden items belonged to one of the categories in the antique trade. From the faint aroma I had just smelled, this wooden material could possibly be gold-threaded cedarwood!


    The bottom of the coffin wasnt even, and I felt like I was touching something very cold. I grabbed it and tried to take a look at it under the pale moonlight. They were granr crystals.


    <em>This must be the rumored Corpse Scattered Essence... This freaking coffin is filled with Corpse Scattered Essence!</em>


    <em>If Uncle Duan wanted the Corpse Scattered Essence, he could have just sent two guys here and gotten a lot of it! Why did he send us here to die?!</em>


    While I was fuming, a red figure appeared in my vision.


    I was startled. My eyes shot open, but the red figure was already gone.


    I was too focused on the Corpse Scattered Essence earlier, so I didnt really pay attention to my surroundings. However, I felt that the red figure should be a woman wearing a red dress.


    I knew that the woman in red would return, so I tried to keep my eyes open.


    I waited and watched my surroundings; soon after, the red figure returned and hovered above my head.


    It didnt seem like the vigers could see her. They held the coffin and continued to move forward.


    I carefully studied the figure. She was actually a beautiful woman wearing ancient clothes.


    She had white teeth and pink lips. Her long hair blew in the wind while her red silk clothes swirled, which gave her a delicate and exquisite appearance.


    She hovered and looked down at me, gazing at me with her crystal-clear eyes. A momentter, she smiled and started to press on me.


    <em>What is she doing? Is she a ghost or a fairy?</em>


    I had worked as an otherworldly merchant for many years, but Id never seen such a breath-taking female ghost. Whether it was her aura or beauty, they were out of this world.


    Anyway, no matter how beautiful she was, I knew we lived in different worlds. We shouldnt have direct contact with one another. I immediately grabbed the coffin and tried to get up.


    However, my strength hadnt recovered yet. The ghost pressed onto me and almost suffocated me. Moreover, I couldnt even scream for help. Only God knew what these folks would do to me if they knew I was wide awake.


    The female ghost gentlynded on me. She didnt move further and just reached her hand to pat my shoulder.


    I was startled. <em>What is she doing? Is sheforting me?</em>


    Right after that, she parted her sulent, red lips, and showed her tongue. Gently, her tongue brushed my lips. The tingling, cold sensation was reallyfortable. It was sofortable that I forgot to fight back.


    A tender tongue began to wreak havoc in my mouth. Her yful expression was intoxicating. I forgot everything else and sank into this passionate moment.


    Then, my throat felt frozen. But soon after, this cold sensation was shooed away by a warm flow. The soft tongue disappeared and was reced by some grains and a sharp twinge of pain.


    I immediately spat the thing in my mouth. When I saw the grains, I gawked in shock.


    It was the Corpse Scattered Essence! I was really embarrassed after thinking about how I was seduced. I knew that it was the Corpse Scattered Essences doing. That substance was truly mysterious.


    Through the corner of my eye, I examined my surroundings. I saw a red figure that hovered above the coffin next to mine. After floating in the air for a while, it slowly sank into Li Mazis coffin.


    My heart started to race. Li Mazi wouldnt be able to deal with that woman in the red dress. Even if he woke up, he would happily have a sensual time with her. If he swallowed the Corpse Scattered Essence, that lousy man would never wake up again!


    How could I save him?


    At this moment, that warm flow was still spreading in my body. I reached and found the source of the warmth. It was my Peach Soul Flower. <em></em>


    <em>Oh right, the Peach Soul Flower! How could I have forgotten about it?</em>


    I took the Peach Soul Flower out. At this moment, the flower produced a faint pink halo. That glow had helped me expel the female ghost.


    I cheered up and hastily threw the Peach Soul Flower into Li Mazis coffin.


    I hoped that the vigers wouldnt see it. If they spotted the flower and saw that we werent harmed by the red-dressed ghost, they would beat us up to death.


    Lucky for us, the vigers didnt notice the flower. They still carried the coffins and moved forward.


    Girl, dont go. Please dont go.


    While I was restlessly worried, I heard Li Mazis voicee from the coffin. I was startled. <em>This pervert will never change!</em>


    Anyway, we were in trouble now. This time, the folks would definitely notice that something was amiss.


    I didnt care anymore and shot up from the coffin. I called, Li Mazi, you got us into trouble this time!


    Li Mazi wore a perplexed face and looked around. Then, he looked at me and asked while trembling, Little Brother Zhang, you Can you tell me whats going on?


    What? I lowered my head to check. Immediately after, I gawked in shock.


    Behind our coffins was a delegation of more than one hundred people. It seemed all the vigers were here.


    All of them wore mourning clothes. The first row had two people, both of whom wore a red-and-white rose on their chests.


    In addition, all of them held their heads up high and had white crystals in their wide open mouths. Without a doubt, those granr crystals were the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    The vigers seemed to be in daze. After every three steps, they stopped, looked upward, and prayed. Then, they continued to move forward.


    They kept repeating these actions over and over again.


    They were bewitched by the Corpse Scattered Essence. I was sure they werent even aware of their behavior.


    Jump! Little Brother Zhang, quick! Li Mazi called, If we dont jump, we will die!


    I turned to look in the distance. We were headed to the Heavenly Dragon Lake. The people carrying our coffins were actually stepping into the water. The water level was now at their knees.


    Without waiting for me, Li Mazi jumped out of the coffin. Little Brother Zhang, what are you waiting for? Jump before they notice!


    I took a deep breath and said with a lump in my throat. But If we leave like that, these folks will be in danger, right?


    Who cares! Li Mazi screamed, Why are you still thinking about these people when they wanted your life?! They were ready to sacrifice you. You dont need to care about them!


    I took a deep breath and said, Li Mazi, go home and contact Chuyi. Ill stay here.


    Li Mazi looked at me in disbelief. He gritted his teeth and said, You You are really hopeless!

 Chapter 281: Scarlet Spirit Saintess

    Chapter 281: Scarlet Spirit Saintess


    I shook my head. Hurry up! If you dont go, this small fishing vige will be destroyed!


    Li Mazi stomped his feet in anger and threw a tantrum. However, there was nothing he could do to make me go with him, so he gritted his teeth and said, Im leaving! I wille to collect your dead bodyter! Why on earth did I befriend someone like you?!


    Then, he threw me the Peach Soul Flower. Catch it!


    I smiled and said, Thank you.


    Nobody was perfect, and my fatal weakness was that I was too kind at times.


    I shoved the Peach Soul Flower into my pocket and jumped into theke.


    The freezingke water immediately made me shiver.


    The icy-cold water of the Heavenly Dragon Lake reached my neck and made it hard for me to breathe; the coldness of the water wasnt normal. Moreover, we were approaching the ancient tomb, and we would drown if we kept moving forward.


    Since the vigers were dazed and couldnt control their bodies, they wouldnt survive without my help.


    I ran to one of the men carrying the coffins and took the Corpse Scattered Essence out of his mouth.


    As soon as the Corpse Scattered Essence was taken away, his body weakened. He slumped into theke and instinctively started to wiggle.


    I ignored him and hurried to the others. I took the Corpse Scattered Essence out of their mouths as well.


    After I had helped three or four people, some people finally woke up. After seeing me take out the Corpse Scattered Essence, one of the guys yelled, You bastard! Youve offended the Scarlet Spirit Saintess. You will be punished for it!


    I nced at him and said coldly, If you want to live, hurry and wake up the other folks.


    Youve ruined our sacrifice ritual. You must die! Then, he charged toward me and stretched both of his hands to strangle me.


    I didnt talk and directly kicked him away. Fool!


    At this moment, most of the folks I had helped recovered their sanity. After realizing what had happened, they were strangely enraged. All of them swarmed toward me and started to attack me.


    I directly dove and swam to thekeside.


    Cough! Cough!


    The people whom I didnt help were now coughing. They spat out the Corpse Scattered Essence, and some even coughed blood.


    As the ritual was now ruined, they had recovered their sanity. This was good because I didnt need to go and help the others.


    The vigers wiggled in the water. When they all awakened, they recognized that their nned sacrifice had failed. All of them looked upward and started to scream and cry. Then, they wanted to find me to take revenge.


    I turned around and ran for my life. <em>Whats wrong with those folks? Why did they want to offer their lives as sacrifices to that ancient tomb?</em>


    It was really absurd.<em></em> Since the vigers were affected by the Corpse Scattered Essence, their bodies were weak. I was able to ditch them not long after they had started to chase me.


    I gasped for my breath and sat by a big tree to rest. From a distance, I looked back to see them.


    The vigers stood on thekeside and looked at the water as the gold-threaded cedar coffins were sinking. The folks sighed and cried at the scene.


    In the end, Old Zhao stood up and cursed, Those two bastards! No matter what, we must capture them. Theyve offended the Scarlet Spirit Saintess. If we dont calm her wrath, well all die due to those crystals. Only when we sacrifice them to the Scarlet Spirit Saintess, will we be able to enjoy a happy life.


    Go get them! We must capture them! All the vigers looked frantic and started yelling. Theyve offended the Scarlet Spirit Saintess. Shes not going to spare us.


    Once one was brainwashed, it didnt matter how weak they were. The frenzy got the better of the vigers, and their energy levels were boosted. They scattered and searched around like crazy.


    I sighed. The Corpse Scattered Essence was really intimidating as it could turn so many vigers into soulless puppets.


    I swiftly turned around and hid behind the big tree. I contemted things for a while. <em>Why did that Scarlet Spirit Saintess brainwash those vigers? Why does she want them to sacrifice their lives as offerings to the ancient tomb?</em>


    I stayed hidden and didnt dare to fall asleep all night. At the break of dawn, I was both mentally and physically exhausted. However, I didnt dare to rest and directly sneaked back into the vige to check the situation.


    The vigers had said that the Scarlet Spirit Saintess wouldnt spare their lives.<em></em>


    Since they had failed to sacrifice me, she would punish them for sure.


    I felt that some evil cult had brainwashed those vigers. During the course of history, evil cults had always tried to deceive people and take advantage of them.


    The only difference was that the leader of this cult was a ghost.


    I discreetly intruded the vige and climbed up to a luxuriant locust tree to observe the situation below.


    Given the time, Li Mazi should be about to return. I felt more confident with that thought.


    It was just 6 AM in the morning. The exhausted vigers hadnt left their warm beds yet.


    Right at this moment, a horrible shriek arose, which broke the silence of the early morning. A woman ran out of her house. To my horror, her body was covered with blood and she looked shocked.


    Somebody help! Pleasee! My son, Zhuzi, is in trouble! The middle-aged woman was terrified. She couldnt even run to her gate and stumbled and rolled to the ground.


    Soon after, people went over to help. They asked her about the situation. More and more people gathered.


    A momentter, arge group of people had entered her house. Right after that, retching and gasping sounds arose. I could even hear someone kneeling and begging for mercy.


    I saw Old Zhao on his knees. Honored Scarlet Spirit Saintess, were going to capture those fugitives right now. Please, dont be angry! Dont be angry!


    Then, he stood up and got out of the house. The other folks followed after him.


    After they had all gotten, Old Zhao gathered everybody. His voice was resolute. The Scarlet Spirit Saintess said that if we cant find the escaped sacrifices, then theres no need to mention wealth, honor, gold, or silver. We shouldnt even dream about continuing our lives!


    All the vigers were scared and asked Old Zhao to report to the Scarlet Spirit Saintess that they were going to catch the fugitives immediately.


    Then, they grouped people together. Groups of three or five people were formed as they headed toward Heavenly Dragon Lake to search for me.


    After all the vigers were gone, I slid down the big tree and went to see how tragic Zhuzis death was.


    Before I entered the house, I was overwhelmed by a thick smell of blood. It was really nauseous.


    I took a deep breath and pinched my nose as I took each step forward.


    When I saw the situation in the room, I was horrified.


    A dried body was hung down from the ceiling. Blood dripped to the ground as the body swayed.


    The corpse didnt have a face. The victims face had been peeled off when the victim was still alive, which left bare, gory muscles. It was truly frightening.


    Also, the peeled face was stuck to the bedroom door! The hollow facial skin seemed to have a life of its own as it gazed at me. I felt my scalp going numb and shivered all over.


    Since I was frightened, I backed off and prepared to leave the ce. The scene made me too ufortable.


    However, a shadow suddenly shed in front of me. Then, something cold tightened around my throat.


    Someone was strangling me with a rope! I was shocked and subconsciously wanted to turn my head around to see.


    From the corner of my eye, I saw a person wearing ck clothes. I couldnt see his appearance, but I could feel his murderous aura.


    This man wasnt from this vige because his figure was unfamiliar.


    This person was strangely strong. I was afraid that he had graduated from some martial art school. I stretched my arms to resist, but the man suddenly pulled my neck and dragged me to the floor. I struggled hard, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldnt escape his stranglehold.


    The man sat on me and pressed onto my body. He wore a ck mask that concealed his face. However, his eyes were familiar. I was sure that I had seen him somewhere.


    However, I didnt have time to remember where I had seen him as I couldnt breathe.


    I struggled in desperation. Luckily, I managed to grab a chair and hit him hard. The chair broke, but the man was unfazed. He continued to strangle my neck, his eyes sparkling with morbid desire to murder me.


    One again, my life was being hung on a slim thread.


    My eyes blurred, and my brain was starting tock oxygen. My strength slowly drained.


    My life was literally over this time. However, I was unwilling to die as I didnt even know who my murderer was


    The moment I had almost given up, a small thing jumped off the ceiling beams. It chittered and attacked the mans face.


    The man was bewildered. He screamed and loosened the rope around my neck. Then, he rolled away from my body.


    I greedily took in the fresh air then turned to look at him.


    The man wearing ck clothes was rolling on the ground. Both of his hands were clutching his face. Grabbing his face was a red-haired rat, which looked almost like a red hedgehog. No matter how hard the man tried, he couldnt get the rat off his face.


    A series of footsteps came from the gate of the house. I was scared and looked at the source of the noise; I was afraid that the vigers came back.


    But when I saw Senior Shus small figure, I cheered up. Senior Shu was like a rat that had homes everywhere. I saw him almost everywhere I went.


    Senior Shu sniggered and revealed his two big front teeth. Kiddo, did you just get beaten up? Tell me, how are you going to repay me this time?


    I panted and waved my hand. You can have anything you want, but lets just capture that man first!


    All right. Senior Shu readily agreed. Then, he started chanting something inaudible.

 Chapter 282: The Six Branches of the Zhang Family

    Chapter 282: The Six Branches of the Zhang Family


    As Senior Shu started chanting, the red-haired rat bit the man like crazy.


    The man in ck was up against a little rat, but he didnt have the power to counterattack. He could only screech and hiss in pain.


    I did not waste any time and hurried to find a rope to tie him.


    However, the man in ck was really bold. At this critical moment, he didnt even care about his face Since he couldnt get rid of the red-haired rat, he directly cut off his face. He threw the piece of skin aside then jumped through the window.


    Senior Shu was also shocked. This man is not only cruel to others but also cruel to himself.


    Then, he prepared to run after the escapee.


    However, even though the man had lost his facial skin, it did not affect his gait. He quickly disappeared into the lush forest outside the vige.


    I took a deep breath and still felt fearful after thinking about what just happened. If Senior Shu hadnte, my life would have been over this time.


    I couldnt thank him enough and said to him with sincerity, Senior Shu, thank you for your help! You saved my life this time!


    Senior Shu gave me one of his wretched smiles. Are you going to thank me with words alone? Shouldnt you be a little more practical?


    I smiled and said, Senior, just tell me what you want!


    Senior Shu wasnt poor, and he had no interest in beautiful women. Only otherworldly items could arouse his interest.


    Senior Shu said, I have only one request. Go to that ancient tomb and get me one and a half kilograms of Corpse Scattered Essence after were done with this matter.


    I nodded and said, No problem. That ancient tomb is filled with nothing but Corpse Scattered Essence.


    Good, remember your words. Dont regret itter, kiddo! Anyway, lets reunite with Li Mazi.


    Senior Shus presence was unexpected to me. On the way, I asked him, Why have youe to the Heavenly Dragon Lake?


    It was not convenient for Chuyi to meddle, so he asked me to help you.


    Why was it inconvenient for him to help me?


    Senior Shu gave a mysterious smile. Because its our familys business, and hes just an outsider. If he pokes his nose into this, hell break the rules.


    Senior Shus words shocked me, and I couldnt fully process all the information. I looked at the old man with a questioning gaze.


    Senior Shu sped his hands behind his back. Kid, youe in contact with otherworldly items every day, but you dont even know your ancestors, do you?


    I shook my head. I really didnt know.


    Before the Qing dynasty, our Zhang family used to be the number one family in the world of otherworldly merchants; it was far stronger than the Longquan Vi. However, the familyter split into six branches and each family line developed their own style. Some branches gradually declined while others became stronger. But even those branches that were strengthened, they were nowhere near as strong as the old Zhang family


    He continued, Anyway, do not look down on the Zhang familys six branches. Normally, they ignore each other and are even willing to kill the other party over an otherworldly item. But if the Longquan Vi dares to go and destroy the Zhang family, the six branches will reunite and put their grudge aside to focus on dealing with the Longquan Vi. Thats why the Longquan Vi came up with this petty n. They decided to deal with the various branches starting from the weakest one. Your family branch was basically ruined by the time you inherited the business. Moreover, youre still a rookie, so its very easy to deal with you.


    As Senior Shu slowly exined the situation, I was shocked. <em>Whats going on?</em><em>Isnt this just a circle of otherworldly merchants? Why does this stuff look even moreplicated than the world of cultivators?!</em>


    I looked at Senior Shu with a puzzled and questioning face.


    Senior Shu waved his hand. We dont have time right now. We should reunite with Li Mazi! If the folks get him, it would be bad.


    I nodded. We were indeed short of time, so I hurried to follow Senior Shu to search for Li Mazi.


    As soon as we got out of the vige, we saw the horde of vigers return. They all looked excited and cheerful. I wondered why they were so happy.


    Senior Shu nudged me and said, See the shorty over there? Go and get him. We need to ask him what happened.


    I took a deep breath and smeared some mud on my face. Then, I mingled into the back of the group.


    That shorty seemed to be hurt as he had to limp the entire time. Eventually, he was ditched and fell behind the team.


    When the rest of the crowd wasnt paying attention to him, I quickly took the chance to gently pat his shoulder. The short man was confused and slowly turned his head to one side to look at me.


    I smiled at him. Then, before he could react, I choked him with my arm and pressed him onto the ground to prevent him from struggling.


    His fearful eyes turned furious. He looked as if I had slept with his wife. The extreme wrath boosted his strength, and he started to wiggle hard to escape my hold.


    I couldnt subdue him alone. If he got out of my stranglehold, all of the vigers would know.


    Senior Shu hurried to help me. However, when he wasnt using his tricks, he was just a weak old guy that didn''t have much strength.


    Left with no choice, Senior Shu chanted a spell to summon his life-bound rat. The rat jumped onto the shortys face. Immediately after, the shorty stopped resisting and fainted.


    I exhaled in relief. Since we couldnt linger there, I hurled the shorty over my shoulder and carried him away before the folks noticed his absence.


    However, not long after we had started running, I felt a cold sickle on my neck.


    My heart chilled as I thought that the vigers had set up an ambush.


    Senior Shu was startled and said, Li Mazi, what are you doing?!


    <em>Whats going on?</em>I felt that my brain was not working properly.


    <em>Li Mazi is the one whos threatening me?</em>I turned my head and really saw Li Mazi.


    He looked furious. His eyes were red and his jaw clenched.


    Senior Shu, dont let him fool you! Hes not our Brother Zhang, because Brother Zhang is dead already.


    What the heck are you talking about? I red at him. If Im not Zhang Jiulin, who am I?


    The real Brother Zhang is dead. I saw him die with my own eyes, Li Mazi spat coldly.


    I was baffled. <em>Whats gotten into Li Mazi?</em>


    We hurried to ask him what had happened.


    Li Mazi then told us the whole story.


    It turned out that while Li Mazi was hiding, he saw arge number of vigers pass by. They all looked very happy, just like a batch of triumphant soldiers.


    Li Mazi immediately thought that they had found me as that would exin why they looked so happy.


    He took a closer look and scanned the group of folks. Then, he really saw me among them.


    I looked absentminded. I took one step and then staggered the next three steps as if I was tipsy. I couldnt even walk in a straight line.


    The folks grabbed me and pulled me back to the vige.


    Li Mazi knew that acting recklessly would only harm me further, so he didnt jump out to save me at that time.


    However, to his surprise, as soon as the vigers left, I appeared before his eyes once more. It had only been a short time, so it was impossible for me to escape ande back here from the vige. That was why he thought I was impersonating myself.


    After Li Mazi finished his story, I was perplexed. How could there be another me?


    I didnt take a close look at that group of people, so I didnt know if Li Mazi was telling us the truth.


    While I was thinking, Senior Shu came to me and pinched my mouth open.


    I was startled. Did Senior Shu think that I was fake too? Right when I was about to talk, Senior Shu stopped me, Do not talk. Let me see


    Senior Shu carefully checked my mouth and tongue. A momentter, his face darkened. I could detect a hint of fear in his eyes.


    "What happened? I asked.


    Have you ever swallowed the Corpse Scattered Essence?


    I immediately remembered how the ghost in red had given me a French kiss, so I nodded.


    Senior Shu pped his thigh. Thats bad. Your fate was replicated and then bonded with someone else. It was dim earlier, so Li Mazi didnt see the person clearly. Thats why he mistook you for that man. Anyway, you guys have the same aura now, and only the expression in your eyes is different. If the vigers kill the other person, you''ll also be affected. We have to go to the vige now!


    I was bewildered and couldnt believe what Id just heard. <em>My fate was replicated? How could someone replicate another persons fate?</em><em>Furthermore, not even Li Mazi, who knows me well, could tell that the other party was a fake</em>


    Anyway, if the vigers killed that man, I would be in trouble as well!


    That was truly unfortunate. I had tried my best to be cautious, but they still got me. Senior Shu, is there any way to solve this?


    Senior Shu kept silent for a while. There is no solution. We have to forcibly bring that man here to break the rtion between your fate and his fate.


    I understood and gave him a nod.


    Li Mazi was still perplexed. He gingerly asked Senior Shu, Is this guy the real Brother Zhang?


    Senior Shu nodded and said, Of course.


    Li Mazi heaved a sigh of relief and almost crouched on the ground. Thank goodness you werent captured!


    Still, who is that? Li Mazi finally noticed the shorty I had abducted.


    I told him, Hes someone from the fishing vige. We can get more information from him!

 Chapter 283: Fates Bound Together

    Chapter 283: Fates Bound Together


    Li Mazi said, Theres something wrong about this fellow. Why is he looking at you like that?


    What? Curiously, I lowered my head to look at him. Sure enough, the shorty was staring at me with his eyes wide open.


    His threatening gaze made me shiver. I felt that he wasnt an ordinary viger.


    I also red at him. Who are you?


    The shorty smiled evilly. Honey, Ive been waiting for you.


    His voice was odd, and my heart chilled when I heard him. This guy was no longer a viger. A departed soul had imed his body.


    I backed off and cautiously looked at him. I didnt have a weapon to deal with evil spirits, so I had to be very careful.


    Senior Shu also recognized that this man wasnt normal. He started mumbling something.


    Honey, Ive been waiting for you. The shorty smiled again. I saw a small crack in his mouth that projected a white light visible to the naked eye.


    The crack was like a de. It swept across his face to cut his head in half.


    I knew I couldnt do anything to stop him. I could only stand aside helplessly.


    Li Mazi was surprised and yelled, Look, that man has a ck handprint on his neck!


    I turned to look. Sure enough, there was a ck handprint on the nape of his neck. The crack had started spreading from that ck handprint.


    Needless to say, this man had joined the tomb raiding operation. That was why he had the ck handprint.


    I didnt know what kind of creature had left the handprints on those young vigers, but I knew it was the cause of their deaths.


    The first victim was cut in half at his waist. The second victims facial skin was peeled off. This man was now about to be cut in half.


    Their deaths were all brutal. Just how great was the spirits resentful energy to cause such horrible deaths?


    The crack eventually reached the joint between his thighs, and arge puddle of blood had formed under his body. However, the shorty still kept his smile and gazed at me. An indistinct sound escaped his throat. Honey, Ive been waiting for you.


    This evil spirit was really brutal. Sadly, we didnt have the power to counterattack I felt powerless.


    In the end, the shortys body was split in half, and his internal organs spilled out. His head looked especially gruesome, as the brain had spurted to the far distance.


    Also, the ck handprint had transformed into a pile of white granr crystals that melted in the blood. They were probably Corpse Scattered Essence.


    I couldnt help but vomit.


    Senior Shu looked at the deceased remains andmented, That things too vicious!


    A selfish man like Senior Shu was also disgusted.


    The scene now reeked of the smell of blood. As for the wicked spirit, it had left the body and disappeared. Senior Shu led us toward the vige.


    Senior Shu, do you have any n to unbind my fate? I asked.


    Im afraid well have to improvise this time. If we cant find a solution, you will have to show yourself and step into their trap. The vigers will then release the fake one. I will see how I can separate your fates when that happens.


    <em>Step into their trap?</em> When he said that, I was scared out of my wits. It seemed that Senior Shu was also helpless as he had toe up with such a dangerous solution.


    Since we had no other choice, we could only go with this solution.


    From a distance, we heard people hitting gongs and drums in the vige. It sounded lively and bustling over there. From the entrance of the vige, we saw arge fire that reached the sky. We wondered what was going on.


    We quickly hid in a corner to observe the scene.


    On the viges main road, a massive fire burned. The vigers lined up in front of the bonfire and added more wood to it.


    Everyone was dressed nicely and smiled happily. They looked satisfied and proud as they watched the scene.


    Around ten folks stood near the bonfire. They yed gongs, sornas, and drums as if they were at a wedding.


    Then, a familiar figure walked out of one of the nearby houses.


    Although he seemed familiar to me, it wasnt because I knew him or due to his appearance. It was because our fates were bound together.


    I wanted to see his face, but the fire was high. Furthermore, the man wore a golden crown and veil. I couldnt see his face clearly. However, his eyes looked like mine.


    The man wore an ancient groom suit with a big, red fabric flower on his waist. He slowly stepped toward the bonfire.


    I was puzzled. <em>What is he doing?</em>


    A secondter, the vigers threw paper dolls, money, and even paper houses into the fire. The other me in the groom suit looked absentminded as he walked toward the bonfire.


    I was startled and asked Senior Shu, Is he going to set himself on fire?


    Senior Shu furrowed his brows. Its possible


    My heart began to race. What should we do? If he burns to death, will I be able to survive?


    Senior Shu said, You wont be able to survive that. Once he steps into the fire, you will also die. If that happens, your soul will marry the Scarlet Spirit Saintess, and you wont be able to escape her for eternity.


    In that case, what should I do? I panted. I couldnt just watch myself die and do nothing about it.


    Senior Shu gritted his teeth. We dont have a choice. You have to step into their trap! Try to buy time. After I cut the bond between your fates, Ille to save you.


    All right. I could only do as he said. Senior, you have to be careful this time! One mistake and Ill die!


    Senior Shu gave me a wretched smile. Dont you worry. You can be at ease since Im the one in charge.


    I remained silent. <em>Senior Shu, its precisely because youre the one in charge that Im worried!</em>


    I took a deep breath and walked out of our hideout.


    Since the vigers were focused on the bonfire, they didnt notice my appearance. I thundered, STOP!


    The folks ying the instruments stopped, and the people burning money papers also halted. The fake me wearing the ancient grooms clothing stopped around half a meter before the fire. He looked at me with deep eyes. Then, he took off the ck veil.


    After seeing the face behind the ck veil, I couldnt help but shiver.


    <em>Isnt that the man that ambushed me in the morning?</em>


    Since he had peeled off his facial skin, only a gory and nauseous skull was left.


    He also took off the crown. His hair was damaged and sticky with blood clots. He lookedpletely disgusting!


    It couldnt believe that he was still alive after getting reduced to this state.


    He had sessfully tricked me into showing myself! I clenched my teeth and looked at him indignantly.


    Youre finally here. Hahaha! Heughed boastfully. Without lips, his teeth were all bare, while his voice was hoarse and unclear.


    The vigers hurried to swarm me and encircled me.


    My head throbbed. I was afraid that things wouldnt go smoothly. This man was dead set on killing me, and there was no way he would let Senior Shu break the bond between our fates without putting up a fight.


    Unless we gave our all, it would be impossible to capture him to unbind our fates.


    Get him! he barked coldly.


    I didnt resist because I understood the situation better than anybody else. Even if I could run away, what would happen? The man would use the same method to force me to show myself again.


    I could only hope that the man would make a mistake and that Senior Shu and Li Mazi could use that mistake to capture him.


    The vigers came to me and tied me up.


    A group of people came out of another house; they carried a coffin. It was the gold-threaded cedarwood coffin where they ced me before. From my position, I could faintly see white crystals sparkle inside the coffin.


    The vigers didnt waste time and grabbed me, throwing me into the coffin. They lifted the coffin and headed toward the Heavenly Dragon Lake.


    The sorna team yed in the front of the coffin while the gong and drum teams followed behind. It seemed they had nned everything carefully.


    I wiggled around and sat upright in the coffin. I nced at our hideout, but I saw neither Li Mazi nor Senior Shu. I assumed they were trying to capture the man who had impersonated me.


    Most of the people in the vige now followed behind me. Only that man and some folks stayed behind. I hoped Senior Shu and Li Mazi could subdue them.


    The coffin quickly moved forward. I guessed they were all awake this time.


    I wanted to free myself, but the knots were very well made. I couldnt do anything as I didnt have any sharp tools to cut the rope.


    Left with no choice, I tried to bite the rope.


    But unless my teeth were made of iron, I couldnt bite off the thick rope. I continued until my mouth started bleeding. It was no use.


    It seemed the vigers had learned from their previous failure. They decided to bring me to the tomb while their minds were still sane and tied me up tightly. Even if I had three heads or six arms, I couldnt escape.


    I forced a smile as I didn''t know what to do.


    While my mind wandered, I heard the sounds of waves sshing. It seemed we were entering theke.


    Unless I could be a fish, my life would be over once I was submerged in water!

 Chapter 284: Fairyland

    Chapter 284: Fairnd


    I panicked and struggled in the coffin. However, my reaction just made the vigers walk faster. Shortly after, water seeped into the coffin through the slits at the bottom.


    I panted and watched the water under my body. Before the water reached my nose, I wanted to jump off. However, the folks were well-prepared this time. They cruelly hit my head with an iron shovel, making me fall back into the coffin.


    You bastards! I cursed.


    I had to find a way to escape. Otherwise, I would drown if the water went above my head.


    I didnt know how Li Mazi and Senior Shu were doing over there. If they hadnt gotten the man yet, then I didnt know what else to do.


    The higher the expectation, the greater the disappointment. I had waited for a long time and began to feel desperate as no one came to save me. At this moment, the water had almost swallowed me. I couldnt do anything but sit in the coffin.


    Luckily, all the vigers had entered theke. They swam toward the ancient tomb and ignored me.


    The entrance to the tomb in the middle of theke was wide. It was around three or four meters tall. The two people holding the coffin were able to easily enter the tomb.


    The interior of the tomb was pitch ck, and I couldnt see anything.


    I thought that if I didnt jump out of the coffin now, I would never be able to escape. I didnt utter a sound but flexed my body and prepared to jump.


    However, something clung to my legs right as I was about to jump.


    I was startled and quickly lowered my head to see. However, the water had filled the coffin. I couldnt see what was holding my feet.


    No matter how hard I tried, I couldnt shake that thing off my legs. I knew that it was probably the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    When those beads came in contact with water, they became like super glue. While I was trying to find a solution, the sticky thing acted like an arm and crawled up my left. Soon after, it reached my spine.


    <em>What the heck is this?</em> The small hand felt soft and smooth, just like a woman''s hand, and it could move peoples hearts. I turned to see, and a woman wearing red ancient clothes hovered in the dark. I didnt see her facial expression, but her seductive scent filled the air and reached my nostrils.


    There was definitely something wrong, though. I was already covered in water, so how could I smell this womans body fragrance? I tried to breathe, but it wasntfortable at all. I wanted to wiggle, but the woman clung onto me like a snake. She entangled me and didnt want to let me go.


    While cursing Li Mazi and Senior Shu, I thought about how to escape. But before I could do anything, I suddenly saw a dazzling light that aimed right in my direction!


    I was startled but still took the chance to follow the light.


    It reminded me of what Old Zhao had told us previously. He told us that after the young men saw the white light in the ancient tomb, the skeletons on the ground began to move.<em></em>Was this white light able to revive the skeletons?


    In that case, even if I didnt drown, I could guess how I would end up...


    The vigers who were carrying the coffin stopped and ced the coffin down. As the white light illuminated the ce, I saw the skeletons stand up one after another. They formed a group and blocked my vision. I couldnt see the situation inside the tomb.


    At this time, my first thought was to run away.


    However, the red-dressed woman kept hugging me, and I couldnt shake her off.


    I had previously contemted how I would leave this world, but I had never thought that I would die in such a humiliating way.


    Honey,e to me. The red-dressed woman softly whispered in my ear. The white light had be so strong that I couldnt open my eyes.


    Then, I discovered that I was able to move my hands and legs again. I hurried to run away.


    However, I soon discovered that I wasn''t in the water anymore. But before I could understand what was going on, someone whipped my back. I turned to look and was shocked to find myself in a strange ce.


    There was no water, and neither the coffin nor the woman in the red dress were around. It seemed I was inside an enormous stone mine. The zing sun was high in the sky, and the heat scorched the sweaty workers underneath.


    Those workers wore ancient clothes. Their ragged clothes couldnt cover the bruises on their bodies, and many had copsed due to their terrible conditions. However, the soldiers that watched them with whips in their hands didn''t give them a chance to rest. As soon as they stopped working, the workers would get whipped.


    Just as I turned around and attempted to run, one of the soldiersshed at me.


    I understood that I was brought to a fairnd created by the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    The Corpse Scattered Essence was the granr condensation of scattered souls and spirits. These crystals contained extremely strong resentful energy. Once they gathered, their energies couldbine and create powerful illusions.


    Anybody who got lost in thisnd would be trapped forever if they failed to leave in time.


    I was flustered. <em>In a ce like this, my low-level magic cant do anything. Moreover, what about Li Mazi and Senior Shu? Can they evene to this ancient tomb and save me?</em>


    While I was deep in thought, another whip came and hit my back. I felt a sharp pain, just as if someone had poured strong acid onto my body.


    I was enraged and turned around.


    Right after, I saw a soldier. The soldier red at me as he cursed, Get back to work! If you dont, Ill cut your head off!


    Then, he drew his saber out of its sheath to threaten me.


    That guy was really scary, so I turned around and hurried to carry the stones.


    At the same time, I heard loud screaming, which eventually became weaker and weaker. I curiously turned my head to look and saw a worn-out worker hiding behind a rock to rest. Then, a soldier found him and started whipping him with all his might.


    The worker begged for the soldier to stop. In the end, the soldier saw that the poor man couldnt resist the whips any longer, so he spared him and walked away.


    When that poor man turned around, I felt both happy and desperate as that worker was Senior Shu!


    I felt desperate because if Senior Shu was here, it meant that there was no one left out there to save me. I felt happy because I wasnt the only one getting a beating.


    When the soldier wasnt paying attention, I seized the chance and threw a rock at Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu froze for a moment then turned to look in my direction. When he saw me, he immediately had tears in his eyes. He looked as if he had seen his long lost father.


    We secretly approached each other and pretended to work. I whispered, Senior, why are you here? Wheres Li Mazi?


    Sigh, its a long story! It was a big trap, and we fell into it. And here I was thinking to live the rest of my life peacefully! As for Li Mazi, you should pray for him. Only God knows if that fake man has killed him or not!


    My heart sank. Damn, I have to save him.


    Senior Shu couldnt hold in hisughter, which earned him several whips.


    Kiddo, stop joking. You want to save Li Mazi? Think of a way to get out of here first!


    I felt really sad. We had messed up big time.


    I discussed an escape n with Senior Shu. However, the soldiers were everywhere, and we could see their base in the distance. There was a battalion big enough to encircle this quarry. It wasnt easy to run away.


    Senior Shu and I had been enved for the whole day. We were exhausted. Eventually, when the sun went down the mountain, all the workers rushed to the hills.


    Our dinner included cold steamed buns and old pickles; they didnt even give us water. How could people survive like this?


    After dinner, we were forced to go to a shack to sleep. The shack was horribly stinky and as hot as a steamer. I felt that a pig pen was much better than this. Senior Shu and I were desperate. Were we going to be trapped in this fairnd for the rest of our lives?


    As if that wasnt enough, everything felt so real. I could feel every bitter moment of it. My body was sore and exhausted. If modern people were thrown into thisnd, maybe only one out of ten would survive.


    In this dirty, scorching shack, we finally fell asleep. The strenuous work during the day had worn us out.

 Chapter 285: Peasant Revolting

    Chapter 285: Peasant Revolting


    I was half-asleep when I suddenly felt someone push my body.


    I hurried to open my eyes and saw that it was Senior Shu. At this moment, many workers had woken up and left their beds.


    While I was wondered what was happening, I heard a delicate but firm female voice.


    <em>Whats going on? How could a girl appear in this quarry?</em>


    Before I could react, Senior Shu had already walked out of the shack to observe the situation from afar.


    Ah, that looks like a gorgeous woman, announced Senior Shu. Is she going to strip-dance?


    I forced a smile. <em>We are in an ancient era. How can strippers exist?</em>


    Then, I saw several stern-looking burly men. Each of them held a banner with the word saint embroidered on it.


    Behind those muscr men was an open sedan chair where two beautiful women sat. They wore beautiful red dresses, and they both had wless skin. Both women had the aura of Goddesses.


    Even if they were ced in the modern world, their beauty would match that of a Goddess!


    The two women sat upright, and their eyes were enough to bewitch the entire area. They were the stars of todays event.


    The Scarlet Spirit Saintess has descended to this mundane world to redeem you. Why dont you hurry and kneel in front of her? A leading man bellowed.


    Then, he threw another man to the ground and beheaded him; it was one of the soldiers that had watched thebor workers during the day.


    This soldier had hit many workers earlier. After seeing him die, the workers were ecstatic and got on their knees.


    Im the Scarlet Spirit Saintess. Im here to save the poor peasants! You were predestined to be rich, but these viins trapped you in this quarry like filthy animals. Now,e with me and break this encirclement. You will be ordained officials and enjoy rich lives!


    The Scarlet Spirit Saintess was like an aloof goddess in their hearts. Now that she had given the workers their freedom, they didnt have much else to consider. They all bowed to her, hailed, and praised her.


    I will follow the Scarlet Spirit Saintesss order! All of a sudden, someone pitched his voice from the crowd.


    After the first person spoke, more and more people began to support the Scarlet Spirit Saintess.


    The Scarlet Spirit Saintess looked satisfied as she watched the peasants. She nodded and said, Good. Well kill all of these enemies!


    Then, the workers grabbed their hoes and sticks and prepared to follow the Scarlet Spirit Saintess to break this encirclement and kill more soldiers.


    Waves of people rose like a rising tide. Soon after, themotion in the area alerted the military base nearby. The soldiers immediately rushed to suppress the rebels.


    The quarry was now inplete chaos. Senior Shu, what should we do now? Should we follow the crowd to get out of here, or should we wait for a chance to flee?


    To hell with the crowd! The Corpse Scattered Essence beads in the tomb are probably these people. Im sure their rebellion failed, and that the soldiers killed them all.


    Then, we should flee, I said.


    Senior Shu shook his head again. We cant do that, either. Look around. How can we slip away under these circumstances?


    I looked around. The fire on the mountain burned high, while the group of workers was now encircled by the soldiers at the valley entrance. Fleeing was out of the question.


    What were we supposed to do? We couldnt join the rebellion, and we couldnt run away, either!


    After discussing things, we decided to pretend to be dead andid on the ground.


    I also smeared some blood on my face to better disguise myself.


    The fight had reached a critical moment. Peoples screams resounded unceasingly, and the scene was a chaotic mess.


    I hoped that pretending to be dead could help me get through this tribtion. Still, thosebor workers were really ignorant. They blindly believed the words of those cultists and rebelled against the imperial court. What did they think would happen?


    The result wasnt beyond our presumptions. The rebellion failed, and all the workers that survived were captured.


    Senior Shu and I were thrown into a mass grave. I saw the soldiers behead the survivors then stack their headless bodies. They were preparing to burn all of the corpses.


    I sweated and felt tense. <em>Its over this time. We dont have a way out. We are going to burn to death!</em>


    The fire in front of us was scorching hot, and I was already breathless.


    Was it going to end like this? I was really unwilling to die like this!


    However, there was nothing I could do about it.


    The moment I couldnt endure it anymore, the sharp pain of being burned alive disappeared alongside the weight of the bodies pressing on me.


    <em>Whats going on?</em> I opened my eyes to look around.


    The scorching sun hung above our heads, increasing the temperature of the whole quarry. Many workers wearing ancient clothes were running around, while the soldiers were still hitting people maliciously


    There was no pile of corpses, and the Scarlet Spirit Saintess was also nowhere to be seen. There were no thundering officers, either.


    I was puzzled. <em>Did we return to the previous day? Did the time reverse?</em>


    I couldnt ept this possibility. <em>What the heck is going on?</em> While I was contemting, a leather whip hit my back and gave me a painful jolt. I turned around, and it was that wicked-looking soldier again. What are you doing? Get back to work!


    Aaahhh! An old man screeched. I turned around and saw that the man was Senior Shu.


    <em>Damn, we are really in a time loop! If my guess is correct, well have to endure every day theborious work, the whips, the scorching sun, and the pain of getting burned alive!</em>


    I called Senior Shu and we grouped together.


    Senior Shu was also desperate. He cursed but couldnt do anything else.


    Our meal still consisted of cold steamed buns and old pickles. We still slept in the stinky shack. The Scarlet Spirit Saintess came again and tempted the poor peasants to rebel


    It kept repeating day after day. Senior Shu and I were tormented nonstop. Senior Shu had even suggested that we shouldmit suicide.


    Every day was a struggle; it was an experience that I wouldnt forget for the rest of my life.


    I didnt know how many times we had experienced this time loop, but one day, we finally saw hope!


    While Senior Shu and I were pretending to be dead to avoid the rebellion, I suddenly felt a sharp w prick my face.


    I was startled and opened my eyes. Right after, I saw a big rooster poking at my face with its leg.


    The big rooster had ab as red as a burning me. The roosters cold eyes nced around the ce and looked at the crowd with a despising expression.


    I was puzzled. How could a rooster appear in that ce? They ate even the rats in the quarry, so it was definitely strange to see a rooster.


    Senior Shu also noticed the rooster. Quick, open its beak and see if theres a piece of paper with your name and birthday on it!


    I immediately followed his instructions and opened the roosters beak. Sure enough, I found a piece of paper in the roosters beak that had my birthday on it.


    There was another birth date, and I guessed it was Senior Shus. I showed it to him. He was overjoyed and shed tears. Its the soul summoning rooster! Someones showing us the way out! Hurry, lets follow the rooster!


    Then, we both reached our hands out to grab the rooster.


    Immediately after, it dashed forward. Miraculously, the two of us were pulled by the rooster as if we had no weight. It was as if we were flying. In just a blink of an eye, we had crossed several hundred meters.


    Our fascinating escape method had startled a lot of people. The soldiers were surprised and looked at us. They even forgot to yell or hit us.


    The troop leader finally reacted. He screamed, Quick! Go get them!


    Then, the soldiers started to run after us, but they couldnt catch up with the rooster. We were like a supersonic rocket. We moved so quickly that I saw the space before us twist. Soon after, there were no more soldiers or workers in front of us. We were now in the ancient tomb.


    I guessed we were in our spirit forms. In this form, we didnt have any weight attached to us. That was why the principle of gravity didnt apply to us. Soon after, we flew to the vige and went into a small, narrow cottage.


    Zhang Jiulin,e back! Zhang Jiulin,e back! Hurry! Li Mazis voice came from the cottage. The rooster suddenly stomped its feet and disappeared; Senior Shu and I were left floating in the air. Then, my consciousness began to blur.


    Li Mazi kept talking, and my body uncontrobly glided into the room.


    I finally saw the situation inside the cottage. Senior Shu and I were ced on the bed, while two Soul Summoning Banners were stabbed at one end of the said bed. Li Mazi and another man sat next to us and called our names.


    I slowly drifted toward my body. I felt so sleepy that I couldnt even open my eyes. My soul lowered and lowered until Iy perfectly in my body.


    I didnt know how much time had passed until I felt a lump in my chest and a migraine.


    Li Mazi continued to call out without end. I opened my eyes and tried to sit up. However, my body was aching so much that I couldnt do anything.


    Li Mazi was surprised and asked, Little Brother Zhang, are you all right?


    I found it difficult to even smile. Im all right. Where Where are we?


    Dont worry, said Li Mazi. Its safe here.


    Feeling puzzled, I looked around. I saw that we were in the tattered cottage the vigers had imprisoned us in before.


    A middle-aged man with a beard sat behind Li Mazi. His eyes were so solemn that he could make people shiver in fear.


    His eyes were really scary, and his aura was intimidating.


    Cough! Cough!


    Senior Shu woke up and coughed a lot. The bearded man moved like lightning, patting Senior Shus back several times.


    After Senior Shu coughed up a blood clot, the bearded man stopped patting him.


    When Senior Shu raised his eyes and saw the man, he forced a smile. Second Brother, why are you here?

 Chapter 286: The Supreme Art of Bragging

    Chapter 286: The Supreme Art of Bragging


    Enough of your nonsense, said the bearded man. Then, he shouted in a rage, Do you guys even have a brain?! Why did you step into the trap of the Longquan Vi?


    <em>This man really is a jerk!</em> My first reaction was to beat this guy up. However, Senior Shu looked very scared of the bearded man. He looked at him with respect and ignored the insults.


    Will our Zhang family take action? asked Senior Shu.


    The bearded mans tone eased. You two are thest descendants of two branches of the Zhang family. If something bad happened to you, it would have affected the Zhang family as a whole. Thats why I had to save you.


    Then, the bearded man looked into the distance with icy cold eyes. The Longquan Vi provoked us first this time. They better not me me for being ruthless


    He then asked us to wait for him in the cottage and left.


    Li Mazi, what about the vigers? How is the situation?


    The vigers are under control. That bearded man brought a group of experts with him, and they look really fierce. Im afraid those vigers will be in trouble this time.


    Where is the man who impersonated me? What happened to him?


    The bearded man captured that one, too. Your fates arent bound anymore. Dont worry.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. I was worried about the bond between our fates the most.


    Since we had free time, Li Mazi told me what he had learned from the bearded man.


    This ce was actually a mass grave that dated back to the Qin dynasty!


    During the thirty years of the Qin dynasty, they applied high taxes on many things. They forced young men to join the army or work as coolies. People had no way to earn a decent living.


    This mass grave was created as they were building a Princes tomb during the Qin dynasty. That tomb stayed hidden for almost two thousand years, but it finally saw the light in our time.


    The skeletons in this grave belonged to the workers who died during the construction of that Princes tomb.


    At the time, there was an event that took ce in this quarry. An evil cult called Scarlet Spiritid its eyes on those poorbor workers and attempted to create a bigmotion. They snuck into the quarry and killed the guarding soldiers. Then, they used the Scarlet Spirit Saintess to trigger thebor workers to rebel against the soldiers that guarded outside.


    It wasnt hard to predict the result. The rebellion that took ce without proper preparations had ended dramatically. Almost all thebor workers were killed, and the Scarlet Spirit Saintess was captured alive. She was executedter, and the cult was destroyed altogether.


    The soldiers then buried her body right at this spot. They poured quicklime on her body and nted willow trees around the ce to prevent her from reincarnating. She would be trapped here forever, which they considered a proper punishment to the rebellious people!


    Gradually, those resentful souls turned into corpse crystals.


    Corpse crystals were different from the Corpse Scattered Essence. The granr crystals we saw these past days were actually corpse crystals. The Corpse Scattered Essence was the thing that controlled those corpse crystals, but it had yet to show up.


    In order to solve this case, we had to force the Corpse Scattered Essence toe out.


    The bearded man was preparing to deal with the Corpse Scattered Essence. That was why he went out to prepare the formation with the other experts from the Zhang family.


    <em>Whos that bearded man? Also, why does he want to help us?</em>


    Feeling curious, I looked at Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu had addressed the man as Second Brother, so they knew each other.


    Senior Shu gave me a faint smile. Remember when I told you that the Zhang family split up? Some of the branches became stronger while other weakened. That Second Brother of mine is one of the leaders of the strongest branch. Too bad that his skills arent on par with his arrogance. If I had his authority and could control that many people, let alone the Corpse Scattered Essence, I could even destroy the Longquan Vi.


    I just smiled and ignored thest part. I knew Senior Shu was just bragging.


    Since we didnt have anything to do, we decided to go to the Heavenly Dragon Lake to see what the bearded man and his team were doing.


    When we got there, we saw a bustling scene. Dozens of people were moving back and forth between theke and the forest. They were transporting many things.


    I nced at the scene and saw there were bags of cement, lime, sand, and even refined salt.


    I guessed that they were building a dam in the Heavenly Dragon Lake to iste the ancient tomb. Also, the workers who were doing the transporting were the local vigers. I didnt see people from the Zhang family.


    Senior Shu smiled. This is just the groundwork. The real experts have yet to show up.


    I nodded and looked pensive.


    I was perplexed, though. Since those folks had been brainwashed, how did they recover? They seem to recognize the reality of the situation now.


    Senior Shu smiled again and said, If they can be brainwashed, there is naturally a way to bring them back to their senses. The Zhang family isnt weak, and when those old folks join forces, they are very scary. Let alone waking up the vigers, they can even make the other party call them daddy.


    Since the experts from the Zhang family were now in charge of the situation, we didnt have anything to do. We decided to go back and rest. I had moved stones for days in the fairnd. My entire body was sore and worn out.


    I slept until the sky turned dark and then smelled a good aroma. I opened my drowsy eyes and saw Li Mazi squatting by the door. He was cooking something.


    I went over to him and saw that he was cooking chicken. My empty stomach immediately growled, and I started to dig in.


    Li Mazis cooking skills werent bad. Even in such poor conditions, he was able to cook a nice dish.


    But when Li Mazi told me that it was the rooster that had saved us from the fairnd, I felt guilty.


    I had just eaten my savior!


    After dinner, Senior Shu, Li Mazi, and I walked to the Heavenly Dragon Lake. The islet in the middle was now surrounded by sandbags. They had used sandbags to create a wall there.


    Many people gathered along thekeside. All of them were males in white uniforms. There were both young men and men with long beards. They stood and looked indifferently at theke. It was as if the Corpse Scattered Essence was just a joke to them. When they saw us, they gave us despising looks.


    Senior Shu looked somewhat embarrassed. He pulled my hand and said, Lets go! I didn''t know why Senior Shu wanted to leave, but after looking at their mean expressions, I didnt want to stay, either. I turned around and was about to leave.


    Oh, Senior Shu? Long time no see. A big-bellied man walked out of the crowd. He had gold-ted teeth, wore a thick golden chain on his neck, and had a Rolex on his wrist. In addition, a keychain with a BMW key shed at his belt. This man was your typical rich fatty.


    Compared to the man, Senior Shu and I looked as if we were unable to make ends meet. My first impression was that this gold-toothed man really liked to boast.


    Since someone had called him, Senior Shu couldnt just leave. He turned around and awkwardly looked at the gold-toothed man. Grandson, you look so big now. When you were a little boy, I used to hold you.


    The gold-toothed man guffawed. Senior Shu, it seems you arent doing too well recently. Howe you dont even have good clothes?


    Senior Shu smiled embarrassedly and said, Its not easy to do business.


    At this moment, the gold-toothed mans cell phone rang. He took it out and answered the call. After that, he shook his phone in front of Senior Shus face. I could tell it was an iPhone 6S, the gold-ted version. Senior Shu, do you know how much this phone is? Its five hundred thousand renminbi. Can you earn five hundred thousand renminbi in a year?


    Senior Shu didnt answer. He casually stretched his back. Its so hot today.


    Then, he took his jacket off. As he did that, a mobile phone slipped from his pocket. I was surprised to see a diamond-studded version of the iPhone 6S. It was even more expensive than the gold-ted one. It was one of the limited five hundred phones produced in the world. Senior Shu lowered his head and nced at the phone. Then he said with a hint of annoyance, Im getting and forgetful. I left my Dior phone at home and brought this trashy phone with me. Then, he kicked the diamond-studded iPhone 6S into the water. I wont repeat this mistake again! Since he had taken his coat off, I saw several famous-brand watches on his arm. There were five or six watches, all limited editions from Patek Philippe and Rolex.


    You The gold-toothed man gawked and dropped his jaw.


    Senior Shu said, Time is money, so I need to be punctual to the second. Its better to wear several watches.


    Senior Shu stretched his sore back and shed his shining golden belt.


    <em>Holy moly, how did this fellow suddenly turn from a wretched old man to a filthy rich man loaded with diamonds?!</em>


    Senior Shu stretched his back again. We should take a rest. Im tired. Then, he took me and left.


    I hadnt gotten ahold of myself yet. After we had walked for a long distance, far enough from the others, I asked him, Senior Shu, what happened? Why do you wear so many world-famous brands on your body? Is your belt made of real gold?


    Senior Shu said, You know nothing, kiddo. This is just for show, you know? When I arrived, I already knew that the gold-toothed man would show off to me. I was prepared.


    Are these real?


    Senior Shu smiled awkwardly. They are all stainless steel. Why dont you tell me if they are authentic?


    I was amazed. When it came to bragging, I was still far behind Senior Shu!

 Chapter 287: Experts Gathering

    Chapter 287: Experts Gathering


    We found a bush near theke to rest. The vigers hid not far from us and looked at us with fearful eyes. I guessed they were afraid that we would take revenge. I simply ignored them.


    Senior Shu and I were quite bored when an explosion suddenly echoed from theke, causing the water to sh seven or eight meters into the air. It seemed someone was denoting some dynamite underwater.


    The water surged and bubbled. Steam rose.


    Senior Shu and I advanced forward.


    People from the Zhang family had already arranged into a formation. They scattered and circled around the ancient tomb.


    After watching for a moment, the bearded man ordered, Pour the lime!


    The vigers immediately walked toward thekeside and threw bags of lime into theke.


    When the lime met the water, it boiled and bubbled. The steam that burst out was as powerful as an atomic bomb. It rose high in the air and produced a pungent smell that permeated the whole area. When people inhaled, they got headaches.


    The men in the formation were ready to meet the enemy. All of them had their eyes fixed on theke surface.


    Gurgling bubbles appeared on the surface of theke. Then, bones slowly emerged. Most of the skeletons were broken into pieces, while just a few of them were intact. They rose along with the boiling water.


    A high wave rolled forward, and the corpse crystals in theke gathered together, condensing into a column of white crystals. As time ticked by, the column became bigger and taller. In the end, it began to grow a head and limbs.


    Nobody had thought that there would be so many corpse crystals under theke. Perhaps the rebellious workers werent the only ones killed back then. I guessed there were more corpses buried in this ce.


    I took a deep breath. If the corpse crystals could evolve into Corpse Scattered Essence, it would be very difficult to deal with.


    The bearded man walked out of the crowd and thundered, Pour sand!


    The vigers dashed forward. They held dustpans and in wooden boards that contained fine sand. After the bearded mans order, they threw all the sand into theke.


    Unexpectedly, the sand grains didnt sink but swirled together with the crystals and became part of the white column.


    However, they didnt stick to the column like the corpse crystals. Instead, the grains gradually fell starting from the top. As the sand peeled off, more and more of the corpse crystals fell altogether. Shortly after, the white column was only half of its original height.


    "These kids are smart, said Senior Shu. They know how to use sand to get rid of the corpse crystals. If the corpse crystals are allowed to take human form, we wont be able to defeat them.


    I looked pensive. Theres still half of them left. Why didnt they peel off like the others?


    Senior Shu looked at the column and sighed. Im afraid that the chunk of the remaining corpse crystals is where the Corpse Scattered Essence is. Its not easy to deal with the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    I turned and looked at the bearded man. He looked excited. It didnt look like he was worried about the remaining corpse crystals.


    The battle had just begun, and the bearded man was already tasting victory. I had an unlucky premonition<em>.</em>What if he failed?


    Even though only half of the corpse crystals remained, they still wanted to take human form. However, there were too many sand grains mixed within. The corpse crystals couldnt condense and kept falling apart.


    The bearded man and the members of the Zhang family watched the scene with despising looks. They thought that the corpse crystals were done for and that things would be over soon.


    But I didnt dare to be reckless. Although the corpse crystals were copsing, it could just be a farce. Perhaps they would detonate in the next moment and kill us all.


    Sure enough, the corpse crystals seemed to have a mind of their own. When they noticed that they couldnt condense, they stopped. Theke quieted down shortly as the remaining corpse crystals sank back into the water.


    Evil thing, were you trying to show off in front of me? The bearded man sneered. Then, he turned to me with an indifferent expression. All right, its over; you guys can leave. Ill deal with the Longquan Vi someday in the future. If you have a conscience,e and help us, although I know you cant do much.


    <em>You bastard, you arent even trying to hide the fact that youre looking down on us!</em> I threw the bearded man a fierce nce then prepared to leave.


    However, as soon as I turned around, explosions echoed from the bottom of the Heavenly Dragon Lake. The water shot up for dozens of meters. The shining corpse crystals bloomed in midair then slowly fell.


    The white corpse crystals were like snowkes, just heavier. They had the power to harm people''s souls. When I saw them, I suddenly felt dizzy.


    The bearded man red at me then took off his vest and put it on my head. Its just some corpse crystal, how can it hurt your soul? Get lost. Youre just shaming our Zhang family by staying here! Open your eyes and see how your uncles will finish this!


    I wasnt the sort of man that showed off a lot. Although I was angry, I immediately walked aside.


    Senior Shu knew how to take advantage of the situation. He looked at the scene and lurked away. Im old, and I cant help you. Ill step aside and giving you room. Good luck!


    Then, he fled.


    Li Mazi now ran out of the horde of vigers and pulled us to them. He squatted down and said, Just be patient. Those pricks are going to suffer sooner orter.


    Birds of a feather flock together. The three of us were all afraid of dying and eventually ended up together.


    Anyway, I saw a white statue emerge from the bottom of theke.


    After the waves subsided, I carefully observed the white statue. I couldnt tell what it was made of, but it was translucent. It looked like a piece of smooth, high-quality jade.


    The jade was carved into a woman. Her face was calm, and she sat cross-legged, wearing an elegant smile. Although she didnt have a pair of eyes, she looked full of spirit as she looked at the crowd.


    Thats the Corpse Scattered Essence! Senior Shu was so stirred up that his body shivered. God, I finally saw the real Corpse Scattered Essence!


    The bearded man and the others were also excited. They gazed at the jade statue, and their bodies shivered as they said, The real Corpse Scattered Essence! Its really different from ordinary spirits. Brothers, its time to attack! If we can bring the Corpse Scattered Essence back, the Elders will treat us well!


    The Zhang family members were all excited and took out leather whips from their clothes. They began to walk into the water, aiming at the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    I felt somewhat depressed. The leather whips in their hands looked exactly the same as my Sirius Whip.


    <em>Do the descendants of the Zhang family all have a Sirius Whip? My precious Sirius Whip is actually amon tool?!</em> My pride had just received 10,000 points of damage.


    Senior Shu couldnt sit still and whispered, Thats not good.


    Then, he jolted up and tried to stop the group. Dont go in the water! Theke is the Corpse Scattered Essences home ground. If you go there, your formation will be destroyed!


    However, those people didnt listen to Senior Shu. Before leaving, the gold-toothed man turned and shouted at him, Get lost! Its just some Corpse Scattered Essence. I cant believe youre this scared of it. Youre really bringing shame on our family. Later, dont ever say that youre a member of the Zhang family


    While we were talking, those guys had already approached and encircled the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    Senior Shu jumped on thekeside and cursed, Those ignorant fools are going to die! Second Brother, you have to look at the bigger picture. Do not be blinded by instant gratification!


    The bearded man answered coldly, I am prepared. Go, hit it!


    After the bearded man issued his order, the members of the Zhang family wielded their whips andshed at the Corpse Scattered Essence. At the same time, they used their free hand to make hand seals to strengthen the power of their attacks.


    I ran forward and said, Senior Shu, will it work?


    Senior Shu was perplexed and turned to me. From what I can see It should work. Maybe I am too old, and Im worrying for nothing. Ive seen the power of this Demon ying Palm before. Although these young men havent mastered the technique yet, they can fill in the gaps with their numbers.


    I exhaled in relief. If Senior Shu said it could work, then it was almost certain that it would work.


    As they attacked, bloody whip marks appeared on the hovering Corpse Scattered Essence. The smirk on its face also slowly faded.


    It seemed things would be over soon.


    Senior Shu also heaved a sigh of relief. The Corpse Scattered Essence is a fleshly body created by resentful energy, and the Zhang familys Demon ying Palm has the ability to use resentful energy as fuel. It''s basically its nemesis!

 Chapter 288: Blood Splashing in the Heavenly Dragon Lake

    Chapter 288: Blood Sshing in the Heavenly Dragon Lake


    I exhaled in relief. Thats good.


    Li Mazi asked the vigers to head back as it wasnt safe to stay by theke. Of course, I knew what he was up to. He was worried that the vigers wouldpete with him and steal the valuable corpse crystals. If that happened, we would suffer a big loss.


    Although we couldnt take the Corpse Scattered Essence, we could still collect some corpse crystals.


    The situation seemed to have calmed down. The Corpse Scattered Essence had whip marks all over its body, and it slowly sank back into the water. The bearded man wore a proud face and threw a mocking look at Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu smiled awkwardly. He wanted to say goodbye and leave.


    However, I wasnt satisfied. Senior Shu, arent we going to collect some corpse crystals?


    Senior Shu rolled his eyes at me. Its good enough that we could keep our lives. Dont think about gaining anything here.


    Although I felt reluctant, I could only follow him to the vige; we had to pick up our belongings.


    As we were about to leave, Senior Shu looked at the general direction of the Heavenly Dragon Lake, keeping silent for quite a long time.


    I urged, Senior Shu, lets get in the car. If we bump into those people from the Zhang family, theyll make fun of us again.


    Senior Shu shook his head and motioned at me to not talk. He closed his eyes and entered a meditating state.


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. Li Mazi was puzzled and asked, What is he doing? Does he want to imprint the scenic sights here into his head?


    That stuff only happens in dramas. Lets wait and see what he is doing.


    What a strong wave of Yin energy Senior Shu muttered as if he was sleep-talking.


    I was confused and looked at him. Did something wrong happen?


    Lets go. Senior Shu ran towards the Heavenly Dragon Lake without any exnation.


    I was startled and hurried to follow behind him. Senior Shu, whats going on?


    Senior Shu ignored me. He kept looking at the sky over the Heavenly Dragon Lake and started to run faster.


    When we reached the Heavenly Dragon Lake, what we saw frightened us. Li Mazi screamed andnded on his butt.


    I pulled him up and looked at the scene in a daze.


    The experts from the Zhang family were nowhere to be seen while the Corpse Scattered Essence still calmly hovered above the water. The water in theke was now blood red.


    The bearded man stood by himself on thekeside. The muscles on his body bulged, and his veins looked like green worms. He angrily looked at the Corpse Scattered Essence. Clenching his jaw, he faced the sky and roared like a wild animal.


    I sensed that his body was swelling up. He looked taller, and there was a strange rune made of blood on his forehead.


    Senior Shu was startled. He rushed forward and shouted, Thats the Superior Mao Technique! Second Brother, dont you want to live anymore?!


    All my men are dead! the bearded man howled painfully. Ill use my life to kill this thing!


    No, we''ll think of a solution! Senior Shu stopped the bearded man. Wait for me, well take action together!


    Move aside! The bearded man pushed Senior Shu aside. This is my branchs business. No need for you to get involved!


    Then, he jumped into theke and stretched his hands, grabbing onto the Corpse Scattered Essence!


    Die! The bearded man thundered in his wrath and tightened his grip. As Senior Shu had said earlier, the Corpse Scattered Essence was a flesh body created by resentful energy. As such, the bearded man was able to smash it with his fingers.


    However, the damaged part recovered at a very fast pace.


    Senior Shu cursed something under his breath. Then, he took out a small tool that looked like an iron wok and smashed it on the Corpse Scattered Essences head.


    I couldnt stay idle even though I knew it was very dangerous. The bearded mans Superior Mao Technique was our only shot at winning. If he was defeated, we wouldnt be able to shoulder the Corpse Scattered Essences attack.


    However, after just a few steps, I felt two hands pulling at my legs. I didnt say a word and squatted to pull the hands out of theke.


    Then, I saw that it was a member of the Zhang family. At this moment, his appearance had changed beyond recognition. His entire face was covered with blisters, and each blister had a floating corpse crystal inside.


    My trypophobia kicked in. I screamed and kicked him away.


    I ignored the corpses beneath my feet and ran crazily toward the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    Before I could approach it, I heard the bearded man screech. His body was knocked back to thekeside, and he created a hole afternding on the shore.


    His face was also full of blisters, and he looked utterly disgusting. Needless to say, corpse crystals floated inside the blisters. He looked much worse than the other members of the family.


    I knew I couldnt beat the Corpse Scattered Essence, so I immediately turned around and retreated.


    Senior Shu ran behind me and scolded, You damn kid, why are you running away?!


    I retorted, You are also running away


    Before I could finish, he had already surpassed me. Senior Shu had erupted all of his potential at this critical moment.


    As soon as I decided to increase my speed, a soft hand grabbed my arm and hair covered my shoulders.


    I turned my head to look and saw a stunning beauty. She looked as though she had just walked out of a bathtub. Her hair was wet, and her jade-like skin was pale and soft.


    Just a frown or a smile of hers could make people intoxicated. It was already a pleasure to see her. Moreover, she was so close to me that I could smell the aroma from her breath.


    He Hello, I stammered.


    The woman was graceful and polite. She said softly, Darling,e with me.


    Then, she pulled my hand. I immediately felt something sticky crawl on my body.


    I knew that the sticky substance was corpse crystal. I was aware that the Corpse Scattered Essence wanted to trap me. Just like the other fellows of the Zhang family, I would end up with blisters all over my body. Then, I would wholeheartedly serve this thing.


    My heart throbbed as my fate would be decided next. I couldnt just stand with my hands tied and wait for death. I drew the Sirius Whip andshed at the Corpse Scattered Essence.


    As it had absorbed a lot of blood essence from the Zhang family members, the Corpse Scattered Essence had be formidable. On the surface, it didnt appear to be that different from an ordinary person. When the Sirius Whip hit her, it felt like hitting a real person. However, she just felt some pain and wasnt injured gravely.


    She was enraged and roared indignantly. The corpse crystals moved faster and covered me entirely.


    My body felt hot and itchy. The corpse crystals crawled and wiggled like worms, trying to dig into my skin; the itch was unbearable. Since I couldnt harm the Corpse Scattered Essence, I had to deal with the crystals on my body first.


    I didnt hesitate to whip myself with the Sirius Whip in an attempt to get rid of the corpse crystals. However, those crystals didnt have minds of their own as they werepletely controlled by the Corpse Scattered Essence. As soon as I managed to whip a part of them away, others took their ce!


    I felt as though I was going to suffocate, and things were likely over for me. The Corpse Scattered Essence was so strong that even the bearded mans Superior Mao Technique didnt work. While using the technique, he had traded part of his life force to obtain the attacking power of a deity for a short time. Since it didnt work, it meant that the Corpse Scattered Essences power had already surpassed that of most supernatural beings!

 Chapter 289: Big Dipper Sirius Spell

    Chapter 289: Big Dipper Sirius Spell


    I didnt have the power to attack anymore. My whole body felt spongy, and my consciousness blurred. I vaguely heard Li Mazi and Senior Shu scream It sounded like they were trying to help me, but they soon ended up in the same situation.


    The world quieted down, and my mind went nk. I heard buzzing sounds echo in my ears, just as if there was a big machine operating inside my brain.


    I wanted to turn my head around to look, but I couldnt. Water filled my nostrils, mouth, and ears. I gradually lost my ability to breathe.


    I knew I was about to die because my soul was on the verge of leaving my body


    As I felt like giving up, I heard a faint voice in my ears. Do you want to live?


    That voice was very overbearing, but it sounded familiar.


    <em>Its my grandpas voice! Is he here?</em>


    I was so happy and screamed, Grandpa, I want to live!


    Good! said my grandpa. You need to use the matching chant to bring out the full potential of the Sirius Whip. I didnt teach it to you because I was afraid it would be too much for you to handle. But now, Ive realized that I was a fool. Ever since youve joined this Circle, the things and people youve encountered were all beyond my expectation. Repeat after me.


    The heavenly fortune is not truly clear, and the earthly dragon shows its true body Grandpa began to chant.


    The whole scene felt illusory, and I wasnt sure if it was real. However, I didnt want to give up on my only hope. I focused and read after my grandfather.


    Big Dipper Sirius Spell, break! After Id shouted thest part of the spell, a formidable force burst forth.


    My mind became more stable, and power filled my body like a surging river.


    Thanks to that, I managed to shake off most of the corpse crystals on my body, which made me feel much lighter.


    I swiftly stood up, causing the whole water in theke to surge.


    My breathing stabilized, and so did my eyesight.


    The Corpse Scattered Essence looked at me in fear. The bearded man and Senior Shu were also shocked. Impossible... How could this be?


    The Corpse Scattered Essence attempted to sink back into the water, but how could I let this chance slip? I strode forward, and the leather whip in my hand brutallyshed at it again.


    I vaguely saw a dark glow on my Sirius Whip. When it crossed the air, it created a sonic boom!


    The Corpse Scattered Essence was frightened and tried to submerge faster. Still, there was no way it could be faster than my Sirius Whip! After the whip hit its flesh, a crack appeared; its jade-like body became dim and gray.


    This time, the statue screeched in pain.


    Awesome! Senior Shu screamed excitedly. Quick, kill that girl!


    The Sirius Whip attacked continuously. Everysh was full of power, and I could feel the air around me heat up.


    The Corpse Scattered Essence had changed beyond recognition. The beautiful woman was now ck and riddled with cracks. The spell my grandfather taught me was really intimidating!<em></em> I was now an unstoppable machine. I continuously wielded my whip until the Corpse Scattered Essence sank into the water without any energy left.


    The power of the spell also disappeared. I was drained all of my energy and couldnt even stand upright. Eventually, I fell and sank into the water.


    I vaguely felt someone lift me up from the water and carry me to an ambnce. I had no recollection of what happened afterwards.


    I didnt know how long I had been sleeping, but when I opened my eyes, I found myself in a white room.


    The room was very clean, and I could smell the disinfectant in the air. The temperature was a little low.


    I recognized that I was in a hospital, which made me heave a sigh of relief.


    Cough, youre finally awake.


    I heard Senior Shus voice. I opened my eyes and gave him a smile. Senior Shu, are you okay?


    Senior Shu was a little stirred up when he showed me his bandaged body. Does it look like Im okay?


    I shook my head and smiled. Im sorry, I didnt notice.


    Senior Shu rolled his eyes at me, but his tone changed. He smiled and said, Kid, youre really incredible. Since when did you learn the Big Dipper Sirius Spell? Ive never seen you use it before.


    I smiled embarrassedly and said, Senior Shu, if I were to tell you that my grandpa imparted it to me when we were at theke, would you believe me?


    Senior Shu nodded. I would. That old man wasnt simple. Its good that he became a messenger of the Netherworld. Otherwise, the Big Dipper Sirius Spell would have gone down with him and disappeared forever.


    While we were talking, the door was pushed open, and the bearded man walked in.


    Although he didnt have bandages all over his body like Senior Shu, his situation wasnt much better. As he had overdrawn his energy, he was now limping and had to use a walking stick. When he came to my bed, he unexpectedly got on his knees.


    At first, I thought that he was too weak and couldnt keep his bnce, but when he bowed to me three times, I was really shocked.


    I quickly went to him and lifted him up. Senior, what are you doing?


    Senior Shu was also astonished. Second Brother, what are you doing?


    Im here to apologize and thank you on behalf of my brothers, the bearded man said resolutely. If it werent for you, my brothers and I would have Sigh, we were too arrogant and overestimated ourselves.


    I told him, Senior, please dont say that. We defeated the Corpse Scattered Essence together. If you hadnt worn it out first, I wouldnt have been able to destroy it.


    I supported him and guided him to sit on my bed. He said feebly, Its your merit. You dont need to be humble. Guys,e in!


    The gold-toothed man came in with the Corpse Scattered Essence. It was now much smaller and full of cracks. It looked like a withered tree stump, and I could barely tell that it had a human shape.


    The gold-toothed man cracked a smile and said, Senior Shu, please forgive me. I hope you wont mind my words from before.


    Senior Shu smiled and said, Its all right. Im an old man, and I wont go as far as to quibble with youngsters like you.


    Then, he walked up to him and took the Corpse Scattered Essence. He hugged it as if he was hugging his wife.


    This Corpse Scattered Essence is for you guys, said the bearded man. Since the Longquan Vi has provoked our Zhang family, we must give them a lesson. Otherwise, theyll keep bullying us in the future.


    I nodded and fell deep in thought. I didnt talk much and just listened to the n, to which I readily agreed.


    I couldnt swallow this insult, either. In addition, the bearded man told me that my grandfathers death was possibly rted to the Longquan Vi.


    I held the Corpse Scattered Essence and sank into my thoughts. I had learned a lot after this event. It was important to have self-knowledge and act humbly. Otherwise, one was bound to be miserableter.


    The destruction of the Scarlet Spirit Saintess and the heavy losses of the Zhang family proved this point!

 Chapter 290: The Murder Case of Wordless Heavenly Book

    Chapter 290: The Murder Case of Wordless Heavenly Book


    When I got back, I handed the Corpse Scattered Essence to Uncle Duan.


    When he saw me with the Corpse Scattered Essence, his facial expression was something else. I guessed he didnt expect to see mee back alive with what he had asked.


    However, he still acted as if he was really excited and asked me to have dinner with him, which I politely refused.


    I handed him the Corpse Scattered Essence and didnt even ask for amission. Everything was for the sake of buying time. Since the members of the Zhang family had experienced a bloody lesson during their encounter with the Corpse Scattered Essence, they were no longer arrogant. If they werent well-prepared, they wouldnt take action.


    Right now, I wanted to give Uncle Duan the impression that the Zhang family was scared and didnt dare to take action. It was to make him lower his guard.


    From his appearance, he seemed to believe me. At least, in the near future, the Longquan Vi wouldnt attack the Zhang family.


    When I returned to my antique shop, I saw an acquaintance, the gold-toothed man.


    He was squatting in front of my shop and looked sleepy. When he saw me, he walked up to me and bowed. Young Master Zhang, youre back!


    This man knew how to take advantage of the situation. Since he knew that my status in the Zhang family was now different, his attitude toward me had changed. He even called me Young Master.


    <em>Still, why is he here?</em> I knew that he wouldnte here for nothing.


    It was impolite to turn down someone who was being so courteous, so I invited him to my shop for some tea.


    When the gold-toothed man entered my antique shop, he was startled. Young Master, youre so powerful, so why do you live in this tiny house? Come to our family. Im sure you can enjoy wealth for the rest of your life.


    I waved my hands. No need. Whats so special about living in avish house? Im not really interested.


    The gold-toothed man smiled reluctantly. All right, I wont force you.


    He then scanned the ce and lowered his voice. Young Master, the Zhang family sent me here to discuss an important matter with you.


    What is it? I asked immediately.


    It had been two days since Ist saw the bearded man. Had they alreadye up with a n to deal with the Longquan Vi? That seemed too quick!


    However, by the looks of the gold-toothed man, I knew that he was serious. This wasnt a trivial matter, and it could possibly rte to the well-being of the entire Zhang family. I walked around to make sure that no one was eavesdropping on us before returning to my shop.


    The gold-toothed man was fiddling with an electronic device that I had never seen before.


    I asked, What is that?


    We should be careful. This is an anti-eavesdropping radiofrequency blocker, he told me.


    The man was actually equipped with such a high-end device!


    Then, he sat down and exined the situation to me The Zhang family had six branches in total, which were divided based on the categories of otherworldly items they specialized in. These included pottery, jade, and bronze tools.


    Since the Zhang family was declining, in order to deal with the Longquan Vi, the various branches stopped specializing in a single field. They had blended in and studied everything they could.


    Senior Shu and I were from two out of the six branches. Our lines only had one living descendant.


    Since the bearded man was the leader of two branches, he was the current pir of the Zhang family.


    As for the two remaining branches, they had lost contact with the Zhang family. We didnt even know if these two branches still had members who were alive.


    Just recently, the gold-toothed man had contacted one of the two missing branches. The situation of that branch wasnt really optimistic. It had only one descendant left, but that person wasnt an otherworldly merchant. She was a policewoman.


    The Longquan Vi had their eyes on her. She was now pestered by an otherworldly item and was in a critical situation. If we didnt help her, she wouldnt be able to survive this ordeal. If that happened, the already declining Zhang family would receive another blow.


    After considering things, the gold-toothed mans family decided to contact me and Senior Shu, hoping that we would help that policewoman. In the meantime, the gold-toothed mans family would concentrate on finding the other missing branch.


    Then, the gold-toothed man gave me a file. This contains the information that weve gathered until now. If you two agree to help me, you better go as soon as possible. One hundred years ago, we were a family. We should support each other.


    He had a point. I nodded my head without much hesitation.


    After obtaining a positive answer, the gold-toothed man exhaled in relief, asking me to depart soon. If we didnt hurry, that branch would disappear.


    He then turned around and left. I took Senior Shu to my car, and we departed as well.


    Before leaving, I gave Li Mazi a call. Despite the fact that Li Mazi wasnt a real otherworldly merchant, he was pretty smart and could run errands for us. He could even save our lives if there was a need to. In short, he was an excellent assistant.


    When we arrived at Li Mazis house, we saw Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue there. It turned out they were about to ask me to eat with them.


    When Yin Xinyue found out that I had to leave again, she shed tears. Youve only been home for two days. Why do you want to leave again? How about your bodys condition?


    I couldnt help it when I saw a woman cry. I gently pulled her to my chest andforted her. Its okay, honey. Im like a cockroach who never dies. You dont have to worry.


    Ru Xue and Li Mazi were also reluctant to part. I felt sorry for Li Mazi. He had nothing to do with this issue, and yet I had wanted to pull him into this mess.


    Li Mazi, you dont need to go, really. Senior Shu and I can handle this.


    Li Mazi smiled and said, Nah, if I dont earn money, how will I feed my family?


    In the end, Li Mazi went with us.


    As Li Mazi drove, I studied the document the gold-toothed man had given me.


    The otherworldly item we had to deal with this time seemed to be a book. However, they didnt have detailed information about the book. They just knew that it was a Wordless Heavenly Book that came from ancient times. The age of this book couldnt be verified, either.


    The person that we needed to help this time was a police trainee called Zhang Ai. She was in charge of the Wordless Heavenly Book murder case.


    She lived in Qingjiang City, which was our neighboring city. The living standard and pace in Qingjiang City was quite fast, and its economy was stronger than our citys. Being able to work as a government officer in this city was no different from holding a golden bowl in your hands; it was a secure and lucrative job.


    When we arrived, I called Zhang Ai. It sounded like she was somewhat annoyed when she answered. She asked me where we were before picking us up.

 Chapter 291: Bloody Calamity

    Chapter 291: Bloody Cmity


    I was really puzzled. We were here to help Zhang Ai, but why did she sound so annoyed when she answered us?


    Soon after, a girl dressed in casual clothes and flip flops descended the building. She looked really cute and had a slender build. Her feet were especially eye-catching.


    The girl rolled her eyes at me and asked, Did that group of weirdos send you?


    <em>What weirdos?</em>


    I was surprised, but I reacted quickly. She was probably talking about the people from the Zhang family.


    I nodded.


    The girl helplessly waved her hand and said, Come in! Sigh, why do they have to send so many people? They are really exaggerating.


    I could tell that this girl didnt believe in the supernatural. The fact that the Zhang family was sending more people to help her investigate the otherworldly item case was simply excessive to her.


    Even Li Mazi got the same impression. Hey Miss, it seems you dont believe in the supernatural, right? On the way up here, I saw two bloody little ghosts sitting on your balcony. If you dont believe in evil spirits, I can open your Yin and Yang eye tonight and let you see what a ghost look like.


    You really like to talk big, dont you? Zhang Ai rolled her eyes at Li Mazi. Why dont you try to guess which apartment is mine?


    "Number 314. Li Mazi continued, I can tell from the aura on your body. That was too easy.


    Zhang Ai was startled. You... How did you know that? I didnt tell them my address. Did you investigate me beforeing here?


    Of course not. I cooperated with Li Mazi and said, The document we got didnt even have your home address.


    Then, I showed Zhang Ai the document the gold-toothed man had given me.


    Zhang Ai nced at the document and seemed to be convinced. However, she was still skeptical. I know that youre deliberately trying to be mysterious. However, how is it possible for ghosts to exist? If a person bes a ghost after they die, why do so many murders survive? This world would have already be a quiet ce if ghosts could take revenge!


    I couldnt help but smile. It was pointless to tell her the reason as she wouldnt believe us until she saw things first-hand.


    I nced at Li Mazi, who understood what I meant. Oh hey, please excuse me. I need to get some food.


    As for Zhang Ais words It was usually not possible for resentful ghosts to take the lives of their murderers. Firstly, ones life and death were already determined. Secondly, when criminals killed people, they would umte evil energy. This energy could intimidate ordinary ghosts, so it was hard for the ghosts of the victims to take revenge.


    Zhang Ai brought us to the third floor and then into her apartment. Her apartment was cozily decorated in a pink color. She had dolls, teddy bear clocks for disy. Every corner of this apartment had the cuteness of a girls room.


    A girl that appeared to be a stern officer had arranged her room in such a cute manner. I was somewhat speechless


    She red at me as if she knew what I was thinking about. She snarled, What? Is it your first time seeing such a beautiful apartment? Im warning you, dont casually touch my things. You can stay in the room next to mine. After I solve this case, Ill finally be promoted. Youll soon witness the female version of Conan.


    Then, she turned around to leave.


    I couldnt hold in myughter and wondered where she got her confidence. I thought she was like a newborn calf that wasnt afraid of tigers.


    Do not let her go out alone, said Senior Shu. This little girls be has turned dark, and her eyesck focus. Moreover, I can sense strong death energy on her nape! If she goes out, something bad will happen to her. If she gets involved in a car ident, it would be very troublesome.


    I hurried to stop Zhang Ai. Hey, stop! You cant go out.


    Why? Zhang Ai snapped back and red at me.


    She was already displeased earlier. Now, she was truly enraged.


    I opened my mouth and said, You have a dark


    You fool, I have dark circle under my eyes because I stayed uptest night! Im going out now. Ill get mad if you try to stop me! Then, she pushed the door open and prepared to leave.


    Left with no choice, I used my body to block the entrance. Miss, why dont you calm down a little? What if something happens to you? How are we supposed to exin it to the Zhang family?


    Zhang Ai stamped her feet and threatened to call the police.


    I could only take a step back. If you really want to go out, Ill have to go with you.


    Left with no choice, Zhang Ai finally agreed.


    Senior Shu, do you want toe with us? I asked.


    No. Moreover, you guys will being back very soon.


    Sure enough, Senior Shu was right. We couldnt even leave the building that we were forced toe back. Zhang Ais luck was terrible, and she had an ident along the way.


    While descending the stairs, her heel broke. She tripped and rolled down the stairs; she hit her head and started bleeding. As if that wasnt enough, the buttons on her chest also opened, which exposed her bra.


    When I saw her bouncing bunnies, I was amused and felt likeughing. This girl was petite, but her bosom was huge.


    Senior Shu gave Zhang Ai a smile. See? You didnt listen to the old man and suffered a loss.


    Zhang Ai red at Senior Shu. Shut up! It happened because you kept saying inauspicious things!


    Senior Shu shrugged. Little girl, you sure have a temper. If you want to keep suffering losses, please do.


    Zhang Ai red at Senior Shu again. She was so angry that her face turned red and her eyes watery. It looked as if she was about to cry.


    I felt that we had gone too far. I wanted tofort Zhang Ai, but she stomped her feet and charged into her room. She didnt want to talk to us any longer.


    After Zhang Ai returned to her bedroom, someone knocked on the door. Li Mazi was back.


    I smiled at him. How did the preparations go?


    Li Mazi nodded. Dont worry, everything is fresh.


    I nodded and brought Li Mazi and Senior Shu to the other room to rest.


    From time to time, I knocked on Zhang Ais door as I wanted to ask about the Wordless Heavenly Book. However, she didnt answer.


    I couldnt do anything but sigh.<em>Im sorry. We didnt want to scare you, but we can only use this method to save you!</em>


    When I returned to the room next door, I asked Li Mazi, How did you know that Zhang Ai lived in this apartment?


    Its simple. There was a police uniform hung at the balcony of No. 314. Even an idiot could spot it.


    I smiled. When it came to power of observation, I was far behind Li Mazi. Using Buddhist terms, he had an all-seeing mind. It was believed that such people were very suitable to be Buddhists.


    If Li Mazi practiced Buddhism, he would definitely achieve something. However, if he was asked to fast and stay away from meat, wine, and women, he would rather kill himself.


    As the time approached, I asked Li Mazi to open his bag. There were two willow twigs, two bottles of sorghum liquor, some ox hairs, and broken spider webs.


    I poured the liquor into two sses and stirred them with a willow twig before cing them in front of Zhang Ais bedroom. The ox hairs were mixed with the spider webs and ced from her room to the balcony.


    To enhance the effect, Senior Shu even put a blood jade on the balcony, which had the power to attract evil creatures. It could greatly amplify the effects of our Ghost Summoning Formation.


    Soon after, the Ghost Summoning Formation worked. The wind howled crazily outside, and the windows nged. However, the mix of ox hairs and spider webs didnt move a bit.


    <em>Somethingsing!</em> I looked through the peephole.


    The strange wind outside reached the balcony and vanished shortly after. Then, two shadows silently headed towards us!

 Chapter 292: Ghost Summoning Formation

    Chapter 292: Ghost Summoning Formation


    Li Mazi stood next to me and spoke with a trace of guilt in his voice. Arent we being a little too mean here? Three grown up men ying tricks in the middle of the night to scare a girl...


    After hearing him, I also felt a little guilty. He was right.


    After considering things carefully, I decided to give her a small lesson. That should be enough.


    The two shadows followed the streak of ox hairs and spider webs, floating toward Zhang Ais bedroom.


    I pretended to go to the toilet and walked out of my room, checking on the two shadows through the corner of my eye.


    When the two shadows saw mee out, they stopped. I could feel they were looking at me with strange eyes.


    While I was walking toward the toilet, I saw that the two shadows were still heading to Zhang Ais room.


    I was startled as the two departed souls seemed to possess very strong resentful energy. Not even an otherworldly merchant such as myself could scare them off.


    I couldnt go to the toilet anymore. Otherwise, Zhang Ai would be scared to death if she saw the two ghosts enter her room.


    I stopped walking and faked a cough. The two shadows also halted.


    I went to Zhang Ais room and loudly knocked on her door. Zhang Ai, open up. Theres no more toilet paper!


    Zhang Ais dreamy voice came out of the room. Its reallyte at night. Why are you knocking on my door? I want to sleep.


    Theres no paper! Hurry, I cant hold it in anymore I tried to sound rushed.


    I was surprised to notice that the two souls didnt seem to be scared of me. Their tongues were still stuck out as they followed the streak of ox hairs and spider webs, slowly approaching me.


    <em>Holy crap, how did I end up summoning two evil ghosts with such strong resentment?</em><em>I cant even force them away as it would ruin my n. It seems I can only keep knocking on Zhang Ais door</em>


    Eventually, Zhang Ai couldnt ignore me anymore. She said angrily, Why do you keep knocking on my door? Where did your shame go? Did you use it to wipe your ass?!


    She then opened the door, shrieking right after, W-Whats that?


    I felt satisfied. <em>Stinky girl, are you scared now? Do you finally believe in the supernatural?</em>


    I chuckled. Dont worry, they won''t hurt you. They are only good for scaring people.


    Zhang Ai paid no heed to my words. She screamed and prepared to close the door; I had to use my foot to keep it open. Eventually, she jumped onto her bed and pulled over the nket, covering her head and shrieking, Theres a ghost outside!


    I smiled. Look at how scared you are. Didnt I just say that they wont harm you? To be honest, I was the one who summoned


    While I was talking, I heard someone reading poems in the room next door. It was Senior Shu and Li Mazi.


    Their deep voices were full of emotion, and they sounded especially deafening in the quiet of the night.


    The lonely wind howls, while the cold water freezes ones heart. There goes the hero, nevering home until the oath is fulfilled!


    While reading the ancient poem, they walked up to me.


    They stood next to me, one person on each side. Then, they grabbed my arms and guided me toward the balcony.


    Hey, what the hell are you doing? I asked in puzzlement. Let me


    Senior Shu lowered his voice and muttered into my ear, Did you open that girls Yin and Yang Eye?


    My heart sank all of a sudden.


    Id gone through all that trouble just to forget something so simple. Id summoned the ghosts without opening Zhang Ais Yin and Yang Eye!


    As a result, Zhang Ai should have been unable to see those two resentful ghosts... And yet, she did see something!<em></em>


    It meant that she didnt see the resentful ghosts I had invited but something else.


    Moreover, that thing had so much resentful energy that Zhang Ai could see it with the naked eye.


    Li Mazi and Senior Shu had opened their Yin and Yang Eye, so they could see it for sure. When I thought about their strange behavior, I couldnt help but shiver.


    I knew that some evil creature was standing behind me. Moreover, the two buddies I had invited had left already. I guessed that thing scared them off.


    I suddenly remembered a famous sentence online, If you dont seek death, you wont die. I had messed up this time!


    Zhang Ai,e out! You have a visitor! Senior Shu gave a pat to Zhang Ai, who was still hiding under the quilt.


    This time, Zhang Ai listened to us without hesitation. She lowered the nket and subconsciously nced at my neck.


    I immediately felt cold air blow on my nape.


    Senior Shu stretched out his hand and turned Zhang Ais head toward the window. Tonight is a beautiful night. Isnt that right, girl?


    Zhang Ai nodded and said in a trembling voice, Y-Yeah, its nice.


    Do you have some baiju in your house? Bring me a bottle. Li Mazi,e and take the willow twigs. Our guest wants to drink and enjoy the beautiful moonlight! Senior Shu said mysteriously.


    Zhang Ai was frozen in ce. Li Mazi could only grab her arm and lead her out of the bedroom.


    I thought about turning my head to look at what was on my neck, but I didnt dare to do so as the Yang mes on my shoulders were suppressed. That visitor could blow out the two Yang mes on my shoulders at any time. I got the feeling that my Yang mes would be extinguished if I turned my head.


    I could only hold back my fear and curiosity as I walked towards the window with Senior Shu.


    Nephew, look at this magnificent moonlight. Dont you feel likeposing a poem? Senior Shu suddenly suggested.

 Chapter 293: The Bizarre Pair of Leather Shoes

    Chapter 293: The Bizarre Pair of Leather Shoes


    Compose a poem? I was baffled because I didnt know what Senior Shu had on his mind. However, he must have had his reasons to say that.


    I quickly searched in my head for a ssic poem.


    Um Er Green reed and frosty white dew. After racking my brain for a while, I remember these verses from the Book of Songs.


    I continued, There she is, by the water.


    Upstream I go, like an islet in the water! I didnt recite thisst part; the creature behind me did. The voice reading the poem was resounding and full of passion, both masculine and maic.


    I knew it was the ghost behind me talking.


    I anxiously looked at Senior Shu. What was I supposed to do now?


    I was nning to copy the verses from the Book of Songs, but the ghost saw through my trick. I didnt know if my actions had enraged him or not.


    However, after looking at Senior Shus slightly eased face, I knew the ghost seemed to be satisfied with my poem.


    What a pity, what a pity! I was an old and loyal official, but the imperial court didnt want to put me in an important position; I was demoted instead. They confiscated my possessions, and my family was exterminated. It was truly a shame, sad andmentable! The ghost seemed to be absorbed in his thoughts, his voice full of resentment.


    I felt a burst of bone-chilling coldness that spread from my neck to my entire body.


    While I was wondering what to do next, Li Mazis voice came from outside. Senior Shu, liquor and women areing!


    Zhang Ai held a tumbler of sorghum liquor and shakily ced it on the windowsill.


    Senior Shu said, Distinguished guest, I hope youll forgive us if the reception is not good enough. Little Ai, fill our guests ss!


    Then, Senior Shu handed Zhang Ai a willow twig, asking her to stir the tumbler with it.


    Although Zhang Ai was scared out of her wits, she was still a policewoman, and her mental fortitude was better than the average person. She used the twig to stir the liquid in the ss and gently held it up.


    Right after that, I saw something sh in front of me, slowly floating toward the ss of alcohol.


    I tried to take a good look, but all I could see was a ck figure suspended in midair. The figure bent and prepared to sip the liquor from the tumbler.


    His other hand pervertedly grabbed Zhang Ais hand. Zhang Ai shrieked in fright and opened her eyes wide. She looked at Senior Shu in hopes that the old man would save her.


    Senior Shu lifted his foot and took off his shoe. He then kept rubbing the sole of his foot. I didnt know what he was doing, and neither did Zhang Ai or Li Mazi.


    Soon after, the entire room was filled with a horrible foot odor. It was utterly disgusting.


    Zhang Ais small face turned pale, and she started sobbing. Then, as the figure was focused on enjoying the tumbler of good liquor, Senior Shu kicked him.


    Senior Shus kicknded right on the ck figures butt. The kick sent it flying outside the window.


    Senior Shu didnt waste time and quickly closed the window.


    The ghost was furious. He shrieked and tried to charge into the room one more time, but Senior Shu had already picked up the ss of sorghum and sshed it on the window pane.


    The liquid from the tumbler was like high-voltage electricity; it repelled the ghost and caused it to shriek and struggle like a wild animal.


    Hurry, ssh more alcohol! Mix the alcohol with salt and ssh the mix on the window ss! Senior Shu ordered. At the same time, he bit his finger and used the blood to draw a strange rune on the window.


    I didnt hesitate and did as Senior Shu had instructed. I added salt into the liquor, stirred it a little bit, then sshed the mixture on the window ss.


    I turned to check on Zhang Ai. I saw her curled up in the corner, crying.


    The ck ghost charged in one more time. His eyes were full of madness as he tried to get into the room one more time.


    However, when he came close to the window, he felt the intimidating energy exuding from the window ss. The ghost could only stop in his tracks and re at us from a distance.


    His red eyes were like two mes, scary enough to make peoples scalps go numb. I held the Peach Soul Flower close to my chest. I stood still on my spot and didnt dare to move an inch.


    We could not let the ghoste in at any cost. Although I didnt know who he was or how strong he was, I could tell from Senior Shus attitude that he was no joke.


    The ghost paced back and forth in front of the balcony, trying to find a slit to get into the room. However, the liquor and salt we had prepared were enough to deal with it. The ghost couldnt find any way to achieve its purpose.


    We continued to tug back and forth against the ghost until the break of dawn. In the end, the ghost saw that he had no chance and slowly dimmed away, disappearing from our sight.


    I heaved a sigh of relief and asked Senior Shu, Is that thing finally gone?


    Senior Shu answered, sounding anxious, It shouldnt be that simple as that ghost is full of resentful energy. I guess its an evil spirit that lives in an antique. In daylight, it will take shelter and sleep in that antique, showing up only at night. I think were safe... <em>for</em><em>now</em>.


    I exhaled in relief and staggered toward Zhang Ai.


    Without saying anything, Zhang Ai raised her hand and prepared to p me. Fortunately, I was quick enough to catch her wrist.


    Enraged, I red at her. What do you think youre doing?


    Zhang Ai felt both wronged and scared. You W-What did you do to me? What was that thing? And, why did it appear at my house?


    Li Maziughed and said, Officer, you didnt believe in ghosts, right? We just invited a ghost to show you.


    Y-You bastards! Zhang Ai crouched on the ground and clutched her knees; she began to whimper loudly.


    Li Mazi could only shrug. Are police officers so weak-willed nowadays?


    What did you just say? If youre not convinced, lets have a fight! I hold a ck belt in Taekwondo! It seemed Li Mazi had touched Zhang Ais nerve. She was pissed and rolled up her sleeves, preparing to have a showdown with Li Mazi.


    I had to jump in and stop them. Thats enough, stop fighting. Zhang Ai, believe me, we didnt summon that ghost. It has always been in your house. Think carefully. Do you have any old item here? Something thats really, really old.


    Zhang Ai rolled her eyes at Li Mazi and paid him no more heed. She started to think about what Id asked her.


    After quite a long time, she shook her head. No, I just moved in around one month ago. What if this ce is a haunted house? That wickedndlord must have fooled me!


    I hurried to calm her down. No, Im sure it has nothing to do with this apartment.


    I then went to check the balcony, but I didnt find anything strange. In the meantime, Senior Shu opened the door to the living room and went in to check.


    That thing came out of the living room, Senior Shu said. The otherworldly item should also be in the living room!


    I immediately asked, Senior Shu, was that thing pressing down on my back earlier?


    Senior Shu nodded. Thats right.


    So, why do I still feel like something is on my back? It feels like I am giving someone a piggyback.


    Zhang Ai looked at me and froze. She opened her eyes wide and covered her mouth. W-Whats that thing on your back?


    Zhang Ais words frightened me.


    <em>Whats on my back? Did that thinge back?</em>I immediately tried to use both of my hands to reach my back. However, I couldnt feel anything there.


    Senior Shu ran to me and yelled, Dont move!


    Then, he lifted the back of my shirt. Even Li Mazi couldnt stand it and shrieked, H-How did you get such a big scar on your back?


    <em>Scar...? What scar?</em>


    After hearing his words, perhaps due to the psychological effect, I instantly felt a sharp pain transmit from my back. I hurried to move to the vanity and checked my exposed back in the mirror.


    At this time, someones lower body had appeared on my back. It looked as if someone with a burning lower body was pressed against my back, leaving behind some burn marks.


    The burn marks were all ck. Although my skin wasnt burnt or swelling with bubbles, it looked like I had soaked myself in ck ink.


    What is going on? I felt scared. I tried to touch the burn mark, but it seemed the skin at the burned area had lost feeling. I pinched my skin, but I didnt feel pain at all.


    Senior Shu walked toward me. After observing the skin on my back, he pondered for quite a long time before saying, Its a ghost mark. That thing hasid his eyes on you! He wants to use you as a scapegoat. Either you die, or he vanishes.


    That ghost was truly filled with resentful energy. It didnt want to rest until I was dead.


    Li Mazi got angry. Hmph, are we supposed to just stand and watch as that thing kills Little Brother Zhang? Lets look around and find where that thing is hiding!


    Then, he started searching around the apartment.


    Zhang Ai didnt stop us and helped us with the search.


    However, the living room only had clothes and household electronic appliances. There was nothing that looked like an old antique or otherworldly item.


    Zhang Ai, think again, said Senior Shu. Did you buy anything strangetely?


    Zhang Ai tried to think harder. Eventually, her eyes turned to a pair of shoes on the shoe rack. Several days ago, I got that pair of stylish leather shoes.


    That''s just a pair of leather shoes, Li Mazi said. Its not what we are looking for, unless its a pair of embroidered leather shoes that was passed on for many generations...


    As we didnt have any other clues, I asked Zhang Ai to show us the shoes even if I knew that they werent an otherworldly item.


    Another trainee gave me these leather shoes. Now that I think about it, its really weird. After he gave me the shoes, he immediately resigned Zhang Ai took the pair of shoes and ced them in front of us.


    It was just an ordinary pair of women''s leather shoes. It was red, smooth, and shiny, with fine workmanship. The quality was also nice. Except for those features, I didnt see anything else that was special.


    Senior Shu held the pair of leather shoes and carefully weighed them in his hand. Eventually, his expression turned a little strange. It doesnt feel right. These shoes are heavier than expected.


    I know, right? Thats why I almost never wore them since I got them, Zhang Ai answered.


    I also held one of the leather shoes to feel its weight. Sure enough, the shoe felt heavier than normal ones.


    I then picked up the other shoe, and I found that there was no problem with its weight. It felt lighter.


    Given the exquisite workmanship, this should not happen. These shoes didnt look like they were some counterfeit products, so it was hard to exin such a ring mistake.


    Coupled with that trainee quitting right after giving Zhang Ai the shoes, it was likely that there was something wrong with them. Perhaps that man was afraid that his deed would be exposed, so he seized the opportunity to escape.


    I found a knife and didnt hesitate to cut open the leather part of the shoe.


    Zhang Ai was startled. What are you doing? These are my shoes!


    I shot her a sidelong nce. Do you want to keep your life or this pair of leather shoes?


    Zhang Ai thought for a short moment before releasing my wrist.


    I continued to cut the shoe.


    After Id cut the shoe into pieces, I really found something between the leatheryers...

 Chapter 294: The Riddle of the Spontaneous Human Combustion

    Chapter 294: The Riddle of the Spontaneous Human Combustion


    Between theyers of leather was a yellowish piece of paper as thin as cicada wings!


    Although it was dry, it was much softer and flexible than normal paper. Yet, the thin-looking paper felt as heavy as a te of iron in my hand.


    I was puzzled. I didnt know any type of material that could create this sort of paper.


    I handed the piece of paper to Senior Shu. He also looked confused and turned the paper in his hand. Eventually, he shook his head. I dont know this thing.


    Zhang Ai was curious. How could this thing be inside my shoe? Is that some kind of new shoe material?


    I suspected that this girl had only muscles inside her head. Until this moment, she hadnt noticed that someone had cursed her. I felt the need to remind her, but she didnt believe me. She thought that I was envious and wanted to vilify that trainee.


    I was toozy to quarrel with Zhang Ai, so I carefully wrapped the piece of paper.


    Ah! I just remembered something. Zhang Ai suddenly patted her own forehead and said, I think Ive seen this thing before.


    Where? I asked instinctively.


    Its rted to the case Im investigating. Zhang Ai said.


    Tell us the details. Until now, we still dont know what kind of case youre working on.


    Ever since Zhang Ai saw the ghost, she had started to trust us. She immediately told us every detail of the case.


    Everything started one week ago.


    Zhang Ai had just started working at the police station as a trainee, but all the cases she received were trivial cases like neighbors quarreling or thugs fighting. Since she had always desired to be an evil-ying heroine, she wasnt happy with these cases. She felt she deserved more.


    Not long afterward, Zhang Ai received her first murder case. She was very happy and pledged to catch the murderer at all costs.


    The person who reported the case said that they saw their neighbors house burn in the middle of the night. The fire was very high, and they heard lots of screams. The scene was absolutely terrifying.


    The neighbor was an unemployed young man that lived alone. Since the door to his house was locked, the reporter decided to call the firefighters.


    However, when the firefighters arrived, the fire was gone. They didnt even see a spark. The smoke had also dispersed and disappeared. If it werent the thick smell of coal burning that escaped the slit underneath the door, they would have thought that someone had reported a false case to tease them.


    When the firefighters broke the door to get in, they all gasped in shock.


    A man sat at his study desk, his entire body charred ck. Not a single piece of his skin was left intact. There was a hole in his stomach, and his burned internal organs were also visible. His blood had dried, and it seemed that if people gently poked the corpse with a finger, the entire body would scatter into ashes.


    When they checked the other areas of the room, there was no burned spot. Whether it was the chair the deceased was sitting on, or the desk or even the book he was holding, all of these were perfectly intact.


    This situation looked really strange. The firefighters suspected that someone had murdered him somewhere else and then moved him here. They thought that this ce was the second crime scene.


    However, this assumption was proven wrong since the neighbors had seen the high me in the room and heard someone screaming.


    Anyway, the firefighters didnt want to cause more trouble for themselves. They decided to call the police and handed thisplicated situation to the Criminal Police Department.


    When Zhang Ai brought her people to the scene, they were also shocked. They couldnt find any logical exnation for the case. How was the body charred ck while everything else was intact? The wordless book in the victims hand was especially strange.


    Zhang Ai had a headache. Still, she had to work ording to protocol. They took pictures of the scene and started to collect evidence.


    The victim was so badly burned that their body size was now simr to that of a three-year-old childs. The wordless book the charred corpse was holding seemed a crucial piece of evidence, so Zhang Ai collected it.


    However, when they picked up the Wordless Heavenly Book, the book felt like a heavy stone. It was like glued to the table and was even heavier than a TV.


    After Zhang Ai collected the evidence, she put all of her efforts into this case and prepared to make full use of what she had learned. She started from the clues she got to track down the murderer.


    However, weird things started happening one after another.


    At first, it was the autopsy. Although the corpse was burned entirely, there was a part that stayed perfectly intact. All of the victims fingernails were perfectly preserved. They were just like those of a living person.


    The forensic doctor was puzzled but eventually concluded that it was a rare case of spontaneous humanbustion.


    Afterwards, those in charge of watching the evidence room started hearing strange movements inside the roomte at night, including the voices of thousands of people crying. They eventually discovered that the voices came from the Wordless Heavenly Book.


    The old guard that watched the morgue was also terrified and asked to have another guard on duty with him. Ever since the charred body was kept in this morgue, every day after midnight, he would hear peopleposing poems and reading them.


    These strange events were all rted to the case Zhang Ai was working on. Zhang Ai was afraid people would be scared if word got out, so she tried her best to suppress the rumors.


    However, the rumors still reached the ear of one of her distant rtives.


    That rtive and Zhang Ais family hadnt been in contact for dozens of years. Zhang Ai remembered that he was an old man around her fathers age. When she was a little girl, that uncle had a fight with her father. After that, they had never contacted each other again. But when her father passed away, the old man dide to visit Zhang Ai and helped her. It was thanks to him that she got this police job.


    When the uncle heard about the events Zhang Ai had encountered, he had sent us here to help her solve the case. He also warned Zhang Ai that this case was possibly rted to the supernatural, so she should never be careless.


    It was also the reason Zhang Ai was hostile toward us. She didnt believe in the supernatural and thought that we were just some swindlers like those fortune tellers on the streets.


    She had never thought that our timely arrival would save her life. I strongly believed that even if we didnt summon that charred-ck ghost, he would havee out sooner orter and harmed Zhang Ai.


    After we had listened to Zhang Ais story, we sank into our own thoughts.


    If she had told us earlier, we wouldn''t have needed to prepare any of this. That Wordless Heavenly Book was surely an otherworldly item. Could it be that the young man who was burned to death was the ck ghost?


    I shared my thoughts with Senior Shu. Senior Shu shook his head. No, I dont think so. The departed soul we encountered this evening was a bookworm from ancient times that only like topose poems. Theres no such kind of people in modern-day.


    I thought about it and found his words reasonable.


    However, we all agreed that the piece of yellowish paper was torn from the Wordless Heavenly Book. I thought that we had to see that book.


    Senior Shu was still deep in thought. Since he was contemting, I didnt disturb him.


    After a while, Senior Shu lifted his head and looked at me. What time is it?


    I checked the clock. 5:40 AM.


    Go get me some leeches. Senior Shu said, I need leeches that have sucked ck dog blood. We must take care of this before 6:30 AM.


    What is it with the leeches? I asked him.


    Senior Shu was irritated. Stop asking questions, and just do as I say.


    I shrugged and ran off outside.


    Zhang Ai went with me as she knew where to get the leeches. There was a seafood shop in this area that sold living leeches.


    I was puzzled, Zhang Ai, do they really sell living leeches? Dont tell me that people want to eat them?


    Zhang Ai looked at me in disbelief. If they arent for eating, what else are they for? Curing women when they menstruate? Youre really weird, you know?


    I suddenly felt nauseous. I had seen people eat worms, insects, and snakes, but they didnt even let off leeches nowadays. It was a whole new level of disgust for me.


    Zhang Ai asked for three pounds of live leeches. They packed them in a small box. The wiggling noises they created made my scalp numb.


    We bought a ck dog in the same shop. After the dog was killed, we let those leeches suck the dogs blood.


    As soon as we returned with the fed leeches, Senior Shu spread the yellow piece of paper on the table. He carefully chose twenty leeches and ced them on the cicada-wing-like paper.


    At first, the leeches crawled freely on the paper, and nothing strange happened. However, no matter where the leeches headed, they didnt leave the piece of paper.


    Pop!


    Everything was quiet for a while. Then, all of a sudden, one of the leeches burst open. Blood sshed onto the paper.


    Senior Shu was startled by the sudden pop. He shuddered, and his eyes cautiously looked at the paper.

 Chapter 295: Human Skin Paper

    Chapter 295: Human Skin Paper


    Pop! Pop!


    Leeches burst one after another, and the piece of paper was now dyed red.


    Shortly after, the paper started to act as if it was a dry sponge; it began to absorb the blood. The sheet that was as thin as a cicada wing swelled up, with the rough surface starting to smoothen. Now, it looked like a piece of skin.


    Senior Shu carefully picked up the remains of the dead leeches. As the seconds ticked by, the piece of paper looked more and more like skin human skin, to be precise.


    We all grimaced as we could vaguely guess the mystery behind this piece of paper. We assumed that it was human skin.


    Senior Shu knew this kind of paper and the threat it brought. He didnt wait for the paper to suck enough blood to fully recover. He took out a talisman and threw it toward the sheet of paper.


    A me ignited and started to burn. Soon after, it enveloped the paper.


    I looked at Senior Shus pained expression. I knew he couldnt bear to see his talisman go.


    Li Mazi went to Senior Shu and asked in a fearful voice, Senior Shu, this piece of paper, is it made of...


    Senior Shu threw him a nce then gave a slight nod. Li Mazi shivered.


    Someone had used human skin to make a book. It would be strange if nothing abnormal happened.


    As the me burned, the human skin began to release the smell of burnt tissue. It slowly curled up and made more crackling sounds.


    While we were watching and thinking about the situation, a smaller me detached from the big fire and flew toward me. The me filled my whole field of vision, and hot air blew in my face.


    When it arrived in front of me, the me turned into a human figure covered in fire. He shrieked in pain and charged toward me.


    His shrills were the same as the monsters from the Hollywood movie Alien. Before I could react, the man jumped onto me and pressed me to the ground. He hugged me tightly, just as though he wanted to die with me.


    Instinctively, I drew my Sirius Whip and gave it ash. The Sirius Whip hit the man, but it couldnt harm him much.


    At this critical moment, I thought about the Big Dipper Sirius Spell. If I used this spell, all of my physical strength would be drained, and I would be in a weakened state for several days. However, I didnt have the time to consider that much. My life was more important.


    As I started chanting the spell, I suddenly heard a rooster crowing. The burning figure seemed to have received a strong attack. It left my body and flew out of the window.


    After the figure left through the window, it drifted away with the wind and disappeared. The piece of human skin gradually turned into ashes. Amidst the ashes, I vaguely saw a Chinese character that was written with a brush. It was the character for grievance.


    I exhaled in relief. <em>That thing is finally gone.</em>


    I quickly got up from the ground and checked my chest.


    I had a burn on my chest, and the ck color had seeped into my skin. Although it didnt hurt or feel itchy, the spot felt a little numb. Perhaps it was a psychological effect.


    Zhang Ai walked toward me, looking at me with an odd expression. ...Are you okay? Why did that thing attack you? Are you a jinx or something?


    Enough of your nonsense! I panted in rage and red at Zhang Ai.


    I then turned to Senior Shu and asked, Senior Shu, that thing managed to escape, right? Without the otherworldly item gone, the ghost will have to find another ce to hide in. The best ce for it to hide would be an uninhabited area. Im sure it will attack people again.


    Senior Shu nodded. Sigh, this freaking item is really hard to deal with. Zhang Ai, you better take us to see that Wordless Heavenly Book. Right, how many pages did that book have?


    Zhang Ai shook her head and said, I didnt really pay attention.


    I understood the meaning of Senior Shus words.


    When he asked about the number of pages in the Wordless Heavenly Book, I guessed he had assumed that each page of the book had a resentful soul.


    Earlier, Zhang Ai told us that the people in charge of the evidence room had heard many criesing from the room, which kind of proved this possibility.


    A single soul was enough to threaten our lives, and we had no idea how many were hiding in that book!


    We couldnt dy this matter, so we rushed with Zhang Ai to the Police Department. We needed to see that Wordless Heavenly Book.


    On the way there, Senior Shu was worried about my burn marks. He asked, Is there anything unusual about your burns?


    I touched the burn marks. Besides the numb feeling, there wasnt anything abnormal about them.


    Senior Shus expression turned even more serious. He warned me, Now that you have ghost marks on your body, evil creatures will prioritize you when attacking. You must be cautious at all times.


    I gave him a wry smile. There were so many people at the scene, and the Longquan Vi was trying to deal with Zhang Ai. As such, why did I be the target? Did the Longquan Vi change their mind? Or, did that evil ghost attacked the first person it saw?


    When we got to the police station, we first went to the morgue to check the corpse. It was charred ck, and there was a big hole in its belly, which exposed the victim''s internal organs. Since it was kept in a freezing cab, there were pieces of ice all over the organs.


    I looked at the corpses fingers. Sure enough, his ten fingers were very well-preserved. They still had color and were flexible enough.


    At first nce, this seemed a case of spontaneous humanbustion. When spontaneous humanbustion happened, the fire would start inside the body and burn outward until nothing was left.


    Thus, it was strange that his fingers werent burned.


    Li Mazi seemed to notice something. He asked in surprise, Whats this?


    Li Mazi was squatting and studying something. The morgue only had a dim, incandescent light. I had to squat next to Li Mazi to see what was there.


    There was a small altar underneath the bed in the morgue. It included a tray of fruit offerings and a small incense burner. There were freshly burned ashes in the burner.


    Since we were too far earlier, I didnt smell the joss sticks. But as soon as I squatted down, I could smell the aroma clearly. These joss sticks hadnt been burning for long.


    As we were watching, a gruff and rude voice came from behind us. I was startled and shivered.


    It was an old man with three joss sticks in his hand, who looked very pale under the dim light. He limped toward us with a cold smile on his face.


    Who are you? I subconsciously asked.


    The old man didnt reply. When he came closer, I noticed that he had wrinkles all over his face and a goatee.


    The old man looked at Zhang Ai with a discontented face. Officer Zhang, youve finally shown up. Ive been looking for you for days.


    Zhang Ai wore a bitter smile. Uncle Liu, why did you want to see me?


    You already know the reason, said Uncle Liu. Ive told you many times that you should either cremate this body or get me apanion. You ignore me because you think Im a petnt old man, right?


    Zhang Ai was embarrassed. Uncle Liu, please dont say that. Ive been working very hard on this case. Dont worry, Ill fulfill your request very soon.


    Dont try to deceive me, Uncle Liu said. If you dont deal with this corpse today, Ill quit.


    Zhang Ai hurried to exin, but Uncle Liu ignored her. He held the joss sticks in his hands and respectfully walked toward the bed. Then, he nted the sticks into the incense burner and muttered, Please, make yourself at home and forgive the offenders.


    Senior Shu observed Uncle Liu then asked, Uncle, who told you to ce the incense burner here?


    Uncle Liu nced at Senior Shu and asked, What? Is it illegal?


    No, its not that. Senior Shu exined, Its just that youre doing it wrong. You wont be able to calm the resentful soul this way. Quite the contrary, youre enraging it, which might lead it to harm people. Look at the smoke. There are no wisps rising up, right? Its because the God of Death is eating all the wisps of smoke, while the victim can only watch helplessly. If you were in its shoes, wouldnt you be angry as well?


    Uncle Liu had believed Senior Shus exnation. He prepared to extinguish the joss sticks.


    Senior Shu awkwardly stopped Uncle Liu. Dont do it. The God of Death is enjoying its meal. If you take the offerings away, youll make it angry, which would cause more trouble.


    Uncle Liu was shocked. What should I do?


    Uncle Liu was a superstitious man. That was why Senior Shu could easily persuade him. No wonder he was so afraid of that corpse; the psychological factor also yed a role.


    Senior Shu smiled. You can just leave this mess to us. Before they take the corpse away, well stay here and help you watch the morgue.


    Uncle Liu was overjoyed. Yes, please do. Thank you for your help!

 Chapter 296: Burning the Joss Sticks and Praying in the Morgue

    Chapter 296: Burning the Joss Sticks and Praying in the Morgue


    Zhang Ai didnt sound happy. Uncle, this is not okay. This is your job. How can you leave it to an outsider?


    Uncle Liu fumed, Officer Zhang, its easy for you to talk. Why dont you stay here for a few days and see for yourself?


    If one of the corpses is stolen, it will be your responsibility. You dont want to get charged, do you?


    When Zhang Ai said that, Senior Shu was amused. Little girl, Ive been alive for quite a long time, and I have never heard of anybody stealing a corpse.


    He then nced at Zhang Ai, signaling at her to shut up.


    Although Zhang Ai felt reluctant, she had no choice. She could only agree.


    Uncle Liu left in high spirits. Before leaving, he repeatedly told us that if we heard someonepose poems in the morgue at midnight, we should never go inside and watch as curiosity would kill us. He was also curious, so he went inside for a peak. What he saw was


    Uncle Liu noticed that hed said too much. He gave a sheepish smile and turned around to leave.


    Senior Shu stopped him and gave him a talisman. You shouldnt go out these days. Your be has turned dark, and your vitality is really weak. Your luck will be terrible, and if you have an ident, the consequences might be very serious for you.


    Uncle Liu nodded and kept thanking us. He received the talisman then left in a hurry.


    We waited until Uncle Liu was finally gone to check on the three joss sticks he had lit.


    What we saw was unexpected. It had been just a few seconds, but more than half of the joss sticks body was gone. It almost felt as if someone was blowing on them as the me kept getting brighter or dimmer. Shortly after, they were all burned down.


    Burning joss sticks and praying in the morgue Thats no different than seeking death, said Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi was right. Burning joss sticks in a morgue was no different than courting death as such ces were full of evil spirits. It was like throwing fresh, blood-dripping meat into a tiger den while a tiger was sleeping. The beast would wake up and devour whoever was there.


    Senior Shu said, The evil energy in this morgue is really strong. Moreover, that thing dares to snatch the food of the God of Death. I have to admit that its really bold.


    Zhang Ai asked, Does the God of Death really exist?


    Senior Shu nodded. After all, where do souls go after death? I dont really believe in the existence of Hell, but Ive heard people say that theres a ce called Spirit Realm where souls gather after death. The one who manages the Spirit Realm is called God of Death. All the morgues in this world are under his control. All the joss sticks burned in the morgues are supposed to be offerings to the God of Death. However, the God of Death would not bring you good luck; it would instead take bits of your Yang energy and bring you misfortune. Disastrous events will happen to you, but it wont take your life directly.


    I just gave Uncle Liu a protective talisman. Its a type of charm that can drive away evil spirits and protect him from disasters. I bought it for dozens of thousands of renminbi, and I just gave it away for free


    I smiled and said to him, Youre really rich. Why are you upset about this little amount of money?


    Senior Shu scolded me. You know nothing. I dont care about the money, but I do care about the talisman. Its really hard to buy something that good. Where will I be able to get a nice one like that again?


    I was a little surprised as I didnt expect Senior Shu to be this kind.


    Zhang Ai eyed Senior Shu oddly. Her face read, <em>You really like bragging, dont you?</em>


    We moved the offerings and the incense burner out of the morgue. Senior Shu asked us to lock the ce. We woulde back tonight to keep an eye on the morgue.


    Next, Zhang Ai took us to see the Wordless Heavenly Book.


    The staff member in charge of the evidence room was a young man. When we visited the department, he was ying League of Legends. As soon as he saw us, he turned off hisputer andined to Zhang Ai. Ive been very anxious these days. I couldnt find any good way to rx


    Zhang Ai told him, Its okay. I wont report that you have been ying video games during working hours.


    The staff member sounded anxious. Sister Zhang, dont brush off my words like that. When will you take that Wordless Heavenly Book away? Ive been on the edge these days, and I havent even been able to sleep. Do you want to kill me?


    Zhang Ai was enraged, so she decided to lecture the poor man. Were people who believe in materialism and members of the Communist Party. How could you say something like that? It seems you didnt learn much in school. Do you miss the life in the police academy already?


    The young man also got angry. Sister Zhang, its easy for you to talk! You dont know how hard it was for me to survive these past days. How about I give you my wage and you stay here to help me for a few days? I hear those damn cries and screams every night If not for the respect I have for you, I would have quit already.


    Zhang Ai frowned; she believed what the young man had said. Take us to see that Wordless Heavenly Book first.


    The young man nodded and nced at us. Sister Zhang, we cant continue like this. Tell me, are you three exorcists? If yes, you have to do your best! If you can solve this case, I will ask my father to give you all an honorary residence certificate.


    I just smiled and said nothing as if tacitly agreeing.


    The young man took us to the evidence room whileining without end. You guys have no idea how strange it was. Dozens of people were screaming and whining, and their voices were loud enough to blow off the roof. However, when I asked the staff member in the next room, he said he didnt hear anything. Isnt that super weird? Sigh, I even entered the evidence room to check, but the noise was gone; there wasnt anything strange. I feel like Im going mad


    Since the souls in the Wordless Heavenly Book were awakened, why didnt they harm the young man? This point was worth considering.


    We saw the Wordless Heavenly Book disyed in a ss cab in the evidence room.


    The book was ced there carefully and neatly. The cover was brownish, and the pages inside were really thin and crumbled up. It looked as though a little force could break the book.


    Senior Shu carefully lifted the book, holding it in his hands. The young man immediately warned him, Sir, please hold it gently. This piece of evidence is really fragile. If we are careless, it will break.


    Senior Shu nodded. He ced the book on the table then gently flipped the cover.


    The first page had been ripped. Needless to say, the missing page had ended up in Zhang Ais leather shoe.


    We skimmed through the book. Every page looked almost the same. The pages had a brownish color and were incredibly thin. My heart skipped a beat when I thought about how these pages were made of human skin.


    Every page was clean, and there was nothing written on them. While I was thinking that we should use the leeches to check if we could lure the souls out of the pages, Senior Shu shuddered. His face looked surprised. Whats the meaning of this?


    Senior Shus voice cut my train of thought. Senior Shu, what happened?


    Senior Shu pointed at thest page of the book; half of it was missing. The cut was neat and smooth, just as if it was made by a pair of scissors.


    The young man looked a little irritated when he saw Senior Shu making a fuss over something so trivial. His admiration toward Senior Shu was gone. His voice grew impatient. Why are you so anxious? People from theboratory took that part to do some tests. Its not a big deal.


    Senior Shu didnt look rxed. He took a deep breath and said, When did they take it?


    This morning.


    Senior Shu sighed. You should call the person in charge of theboratory. I think theyre in trouble.


    The young man was amused. Uncle, how can you be so sure? The people from the Laboratory Department are like immortal cockroaches. How could they


    Zhang Ai was annoyed. Stop talking nonsense. Just make this call.


    The young man felt a little reluctant but still nodded and took out his phone to call the man.


    However, the call didnt go through.


    The young man went from unconcerned to puzzled and then to frightened. Uncle, no one picked up the call. Maybe Old Huang is sleeping... That would exin why he didnt pick up. Everybody knows that when he sleeps, hes no different from a dead man.


    Old Huang was the policeman in charge of theboratory.


    Senior Shu snorted. Keep lying to yourself.


    Zhang Ai snatched his phone when the young man was about to call Old Huang one more time. Theres no need to call him again. A mans life is at stake. We should go to his ce to check up on him!


    Then, Zhang Ai led us out of the department. The young man also wanted to go, but Zhang Ai stopped him as he had to stay for his shift.


    The young man almost cried. Sister, I dont dare to stay here alone. How about you stay here and I take them to see Old Huang?


    Zhang Ai didnt agree no matter how hard the young man tried. Eventually, she blushed and said, Im also scared.


    Left with no choice, Senior Shu made several hand seals above the Wordless Heavenly Book. Then, he told the young man that he had sealed the book and that there would be no problems for the next twenty-four hours. The young man finally agreed to stay behind.


    After we left, Zhang Ai asked Senior Shu, Can your hand seals really suppress the book for twenty-four hours? What if the souls inside manage to break the seal?


    Senior Shu said, Theres no need to worry about that, because the hand seals were fake. I did that just to deceive the boy.


    Zhang Ai was dumbstruck and looked at Senior Shu in disbelief. She hadnt gotten used to Senior Shus working style yet.


    We soon arrived at Old Huangs house. He was staying in one of the buildings of the Public Security Bureau.


    On the way there, Zhang Ai told us a bit about Old Huang. Old Huang was an old policeman that had been working in this department for more than ten years. Several years ago, he divorced his wife, and his son went to live with his wife. Old Huang now lived alone in the police dormitory.


    Senior Shu and I became even more worried. If someone was living with him, perhaps that person would notice his strange behavior and save him. But since Old Huang lived alone, things didnt look too good!

 Chapter 297: Old Huang Was Murdered

    Chapter 297: Old Huang Was Murdered


    We knocked on Old Huangs door with a heavy heart, but there was no reply. Zhang Ai anxiously kicked the door open and stormed into the house.


    As soon as the door opened, a thick burning smell came to our nostrils, which made our scalps tingle.


    I nced at Senior Shu, who then looked at Zhang Ai and shook his head. I knew that he wanted me to stop Zhang Ai because the scene inside might be a horrible mess. He didnt want Zhang Ai to go in rashly.


    I hurried to stop the worried Zhang Ai and made her stay put.


    Senior Shu approached the bedroom and ced his ear to the door, trying to listen to themotion inside. Then, he knocked on the door five times. Three knocks were long, and two were short.


    However, there was only deadly silence; not a single sound was heard.


    Senior Shu exhaled in relief and opened the bedroom door.


    The moment the door was opened, a thicker burning smell exuded.


    Although Zhang Ai had carefully covered her nose and mouth, she couldnt help but throw up.


    A persony quietly on the bed; it was Old Huang. He was naked, with a quilt covering the left side of his body, and he looked fine. There was nothing strange about his body. There were no burn marks, either.


    I couldnt rx as everything looked <em>too</em> normal. If the dead body wasnt burned, where did the smelle from?


    Senior Shu suspiciously scanned the room. There werent any burned or charred spots. We didnt even see a wisp of smoke.


    Finally, Senior Shu gritted his teeth and walked forward, resolutely lifting the quilt.


    What we saw under the quilt frightened us.


    The part of Old Huangs body that the quilt had covered was hollow, and his bones were charcoal-like. His flesh had turned into ashes and was now stuck to the bones. At first nce, he looked like a pile of coke.


    The right side of his body had intact flesh, while his left side was burned into ashes. This extreme contrast was too much to bear. My stomach twitched and churned. I turned around and puked.


    Li Mazi had it even worse. Hended on his butt and shrieked, Holy moly!


    Zhang Ais reaction was better than mine. Perhaps she had already prepared herself and only looked a little pale. She silently gazed at the burned body, and teardrops started falling from her eyes. In the next second, she burst out crying in front of us.


    Senior Shu said helplessly, All right, dont cry. Since half of the body was burned, half of the soul would be damaged as well. This kind of ghost will go crazy and attack everybody. If we dont deal with this matter right now, things could get bad real quick.


    Li Mazi and Iforted Zhang Ai. We asked her to report the case to her superior. A policeman was murdered. This wasnt a small case anymore.


    Zhang Ai was very worried. What if they ask me why we were at Old Huangs ce thiste at night? They wont believe that a ghost killed him.


    We also had a headache because of this. In the end, I decided to bet everything on the Zhang family. If they could arrange Zhang Ai to work in the police station, I was sure they had someone in the higher-ups. I called our contact.


    The gold-toothed man picked up the call. I briefed him on the situation, and although he was surprised, he reassured us, Dont worry and do what you need to do. I will talk to the leaders of the police station. Just wait there.


    Soon after, two leaders from the police station arrived. Zhang Ai called one of them Bureau Chief. It seemed the Zhang family had great influence over this local police station.


    The Chief was very polite and greeted us warmly, apologizing for noting earlier. I told myself that this Chief was probably involved in some shady business. One of his policemen was murdered, and he was still in the mood to fawn over us.


    I didnt point this out as he was being polite. After a quick greeting, we urged him to deal with Old Huangs case.


    The Chief nodded and bravely walked into Old Huangs room. However, as soon as he saw the tragic scene, he shrieked in horror. If we werent here, I guessed he would have vomited his insides out.


    The Chief tried to refrain himself from vomiting. It took him a long time to adjust his mood and get himself together. His face gradually regained color.


    Senior Shu said, Old Huangs soul has fallen into a frenzied state and is full of resentment. After twenty-four hours, he will adapt to his new condition and start harming people. I suggest we cremate his body as soon as possible. Although it will kill his soul, its the only way to prevent him from harming others.


    The Chief kept silent. Eventually, he said with a reluctant face, Sir, I totally agree with your idea. However, Old Huang was a policeman at our department for quite a long time, and he had a very strange death. Our superiors will request us to investigate this case thoroughly. If we cremate his body now, it would look really suspicious. Thats fine by me as I would only lose my position, but the others might not be this lucky.


    His righteous words werent enough to deceive us. The truth was that he didnt want to get involved in this mess. It definitely wasnt for other peoples well-being.


    At the same time, his words were somewhat reasonable. The victim was an old-timer. If we burned his corpse right after his death without a thorough exnation, we would receive a lot of criticism.


    After contemting for a while, Senior Shupromised. In that case, clean the scene and move the deceased to the morgue. Tonight, I will find a way to make Old Huangs soul ascend.


    I knew that Senior Shu just wanted tofort the Chief as there was no way to pacify Old Huangs soul. Since his soul was iplete, we could only destroy it.


    The Chief nodded and said that he would call a special investigation team to deal with the scene once we had left.


    At this time, it was almost 4 AM, and the sky was getting brighter. We were exhausted, but Senior Shu didnt bring us back to Zhang Ais apartment to rest. Instead, we went to the morgue. On the way there, we grabbed the Wordless Heavenly Book and brought it to the morgue as well.


    There were several souls in the morgue that had been murdered by the Wordless Heavenly Book, so the book had the power to subdue them to a certain extent. We didnt need to worry about these souls causing trouble.


    We rested in the lobby beside the morgue. Before the sky brightened, the Chief called and asked us to open the morgue. They took photos of Old Huangs remains, and everything has been dealt with. As promised, were sending him to the morgue now.


    I nced at Old Huangs corpse. The undamaged half of his body was stiff and had turned purple-brown. The remaining half of his face had also twisted, with his eye rolling backward and gazing at the ceiling.


    It was a sign that he was about to be a zombie, which kept me worried.


    Having dealt with Old Huangs body, the Chief invited us for lunch to celebrate.


    However, we werent in the mood for a party right now. Thank you, but well have to refuse. We have to watch the morgue for twenty-four hours. We dont want anything unexpected to happen.


    The Chief didnt want us to stay in that cramped, filthy ce filled with corpses. He cleared a room in which we could have a view of the morgue through the window.


    After the Chief left, I asked Senior Shu, Why was only half of Old Huangs body burned?


    Senior Shu sighed. Otherworldly items hate to be cut in half the most. Old Huang had used a pair of scissors to cut the paper into two pieces, which had also cut the soul that lived in the page into two pieces. Although only half of the soul was left, it didnt affect its power. Quite the contrary, it made it crazier and more resentful. Thats why it murdered Old Huang. Also, since the soul was halved vertically, it could only attach half of its body to Old Huangs. Thats why he died in such a strange way.


    Something suddenly popped up in my mind. Senior Shu, it seems we havent found the evil soul that murdered Old Huang yet. Will it go around and kill more people? We cant let it run wild.


    Senior Shu exined, Thats why we need to go back to Old Huangs ce to find that piece of paper. Earlier, I was worried that we would provoke the soul, so I didnt ask you guys to search for it. But now, its broad daylight, and the soul must be sleeping. Its time to look for it.


    Zhang Ai led us back to Old Huangs house, and we started searching for the page.


    Eventually, Li Mazi found the piece of human skin paper inside Old Huangs working files.


    Senior Shu carefully wrapped the piece of paper in a cloth. We then hurried back to reattach the piece to the Wordless Heavenly Book.


    Next was a long wait for the night to fall. Only at that time would ghosts show up, and only at that time we could deal with them.


    Our main mission was to lure out Old Huangs soul and destroy it to prevent it from harming more people.


    It had been a very busy day. I rolled around in bed and couldnt fall asleep. The Wordless Heavenly Book kept appearing in my head.


    Since so many strange things had happened, Zhang Ai was traumatized. She didnt dare to go home and decided to stay with us in that small office.


    Around noon, when I started to feel sleepy, the Chief called us, asking us to join him for lunch.


    Senior Shu and I hated these kinds of socializing meals, so we didnt want to go. However, the Chief kept begging us, and since Li Mazi also wanted to go, we had to agree.


    The leaders of the Public Security Bureau also joined the lunch. It was enough to show how much importance the Chief attached to this matter. At the same time, I was curious about the power of the Zhang family. How strong were they, after all? How could they make the Chief pay so much attention to this case?


    I tried to pry and learned that the Chief didnt actually know the Zhang family; perhaps hecked the qualifications. He had received the order directly from the Provincial Public Security Department.


    It was startled. I had never thought that the Zhang family could influence even the Provincial Public Security Department.


    Still, even with such power, the Zhang family couldnt openly deal with the Longquan Vi. It seemed that the Longquan Vi was even stronger and far-reaching. If possible, I didnt want to provoke either of them.


    Then, I remembered the trainee that had gifted Zhang Ai the shoes. That person must havee from the Longquan Vi. I asked the Chief if he knew about the trainee.


    The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward. The Chief forced a smile. Actually, that trainee was an impostor. We noticed only after they resigned.


    An impostor? I was startled. Sir, what happened?

 Chapter 298: Five Ghosts Moving the Coffin

    Chapter 298: Five Ghosts Moving the Coffin


    It turned out that their police department had received an order from above, which notified them about a traineeing to the department. The trainee arrived soon after the order was issued. The Chief didnt carefully check his profile because he thought that no one would dare to impersonate a police trainee.


    However, a few dayster, the trainee submitted his resignation letter.


    He resigned in the morning. In the afternoon, the Chief was notified by his superiors that the trainee had gone missing, so no one would being to the department in the near future.


    The Chief finally recognized that someone had impersonated the trainee. However, since that man hadnt done any harm to the department, he didnt disclose the matter. He kept it hidden to avoid punishment.


    After I listened to his story, I had a headache. There were two victims already, three if the missing trainee was also counted, and I felt that the number was bound to increase.


    I advised the Chief, You must hurry to find the missing trainee. Otherwise, he might not survive.


    The Chief nodded repeatedly, but I knew he was just pretending to care. The trainee went missing before reporting to the department, so he wanted to avoid the case at all costs. There was no way he would take the initiative to get his hands dirty.


    Li Mazi was the most suitable to talk to these old officials. We had dealt with many officials in the past, and no matter how high their position was, we had managed to win them over with some ttering.


    However, we had strong backing this time, and it was the officials that wanted to tter us. Still, this didnt make me happy. If possible, I would rather be the one pretending to be servile. The more power you had, the bigger the target on your back. Anyway, even if I was worried, I couldnt act rashly. It was better to suffer a bit now and keep my head attached to my body.


    While I was feeling sentimental, the Chiefs phone rang. After he received the call, he lowered his head and frowned.


    He hung up and walked towards Senior Shu. Senior, something has happened at the police department.


    We were all anxious. What happened?


    The Chief took a deep breath and said, There was amotion in the morgue in broad daylight. Its a long story, and I cant exin it in just a few sentences


    Lets not waste time then. I made a quick decision and said, Hurry, we need to go there and see.


    When we arrived at the police station, we saw a lot of people surrounding the morgue. Most of them were policemen, and some were the peopleing to report stuff. They were discussing boisterously.


    When the Chief saw the crowd, he was enraged; he stormed forward to shoo those people away. At the same time, he warned them not to disclose what happened today. Otherwise, they would be arrested for disrupting the public order.


    After he had dismissed the crowd, the Chief looked for the manager of the morgue and asked for more details.


    Uncle Liu, the morgue manager, also happened to be there. When he saw us, he fumed, I trusted you and let you to take care of the morgue. Is this how you took care of it?!


    When the Chief saw that Uncle Liu wanted to trouble us, he was furious. He rushed forward and started scolding Uncle Liu. Uncle Liu was speechless because he couldnt figure out why the Chief wanted to protect outsiders like us.


    I stopped the Chief and said, Its not the time to throw the me around. We need to know what happened.


    Since I had just helped Uncle Liu, he appreciated that. He changed his tone and told us what happened.


    Around half an hour ago, five people raided the police station.


    They were all old men around seventy or even eighty years old. They had wrinkled faces and wore shrouds.


    They moved very quickly, held a ck umbre, and carried a ckcquered coffin. There was also an old man ying funeral music. They stormed so quickly into the police station that the guards didnt even have the time to stop them.


    At first, everybody thought that they were the family of a deceased victim and that they wanted to trouble the police station. However, the group rushed directly to the morgue and kicked the door open.


    After they went in, they threw the coffin onto the ground and mumbled something before leaving. Everything happened in less than three minutes. Before the policemen could even react, the five old men had already disappeared.


    Old Liu felt embarrassed that such a strange event had happened under his watch. He locked the door again and tried to disperse the crowd around the morgue. However, the curious onlookers refused to leave. Feeling helpless, he called the Chief.


    My heart skipped a beat. Those guys had actually taken the initiative to look for us. If I wasnt mistaken, those guys wearing shrouds and holding umbres werent human.


    I didnt know their intentions, so I looked at Senior Shu, who had a face filled with worry. From his countenance, I could tell that the situation was really serious.


    Senior Shu asked Uncle Liu to open the morgue. We all went in.


    Before I could step into the room, I felt a wave of heat blow in my face. I was flustered. This ce was a morgue, so where did the heate from?


    I knew it wasnt normal and that it was rted to what Senior Shu had told me earlier. He had warned that the ghost mark on my body would turn me into an easy target for ghosts. I got a hold of myself and gripped the Peach Soul Flower tighter.


    The wave of heat disappeared in just an instant, getting reced by bitter cold that chilled me to the bone. I had experienced this chill in Zhang Ais apartment before.


    As soon as the lights were turned on, I gasped in shock.


    A ckcquered coffin calmlyy in the middle of the morgue. The lid was thrown aside, and two corpses were squeezed in the coffin. Those were the bodies of the two victims of the Wordless Heavenly Book.


    The corpses were still charred, and since they had been forcefully moved, they were broken in many ces. The frost and ice on their bodies also melted, starting to drip down in the form of water.


    Five ghosts moved the coffin and captured their souls. Senior Shu sighed. It seems we dont need to do anything. The Longquan Vi has already taken the two victims souls away.


    Why did they take their souls? I was startled and looked at Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu answered, Im not sure, but I think they will use them to deal with us. Perhaps the two souls knew the weakness of the Wordless Heavenly Book, and the Longquan Vi was worried that we would interrogate them and learn something useful. That might be the reason they decided to take the souls beforehand.


    I nodded and thought aloud, People from the Longquan Vi really are bold. They dare to send ghosts to the police station in broad daylight...


    Zhang Ai gaped and worriedly looked at me. You mean Those five were actually ghosts?


    I noticed that I had talked too much. I hurried to correct myself. Im not sure. It was just a guess. Dont mind my words.


    Zhang Ai didnt buy it. She turned to exchange looks with the Chief. They both looked terrified.


    Senior Shu suddenly thought of something and hurried to check the freezer cabs where he had stored the Wordless Heavenly Book. He was worried that the five ghosts had taken the Wordless Heavenly Book away.


    It was good that the book was still in the fridge. However, in such a cold environment, it had shrunk a lot.


    Senior Shu picked up the Wordless Heavenly Book and gently flipped through the pages, finding a ck feather.


    The feather waspletely ck and as thick as a finger. It exuded an ice-cold, ck glow and didnt look like the feather of an ordinary bird.


    I looked at Senior Shu in hopes that he could give us an exnation.


    Senior Shu held the feather in his hand and carefully checked it. He brought it to his ear and gently flicked it. The feather produced a rustling sound, just as if the wind had just blown through it.


    He listened for a while, and his face suddenly turned ugly.


    After he put the feather down, I asked, Senior Shu, what did you discover?


    Senior Shu sighed. Its the Five Spirits Written War Challenge. Those bastards came to give us this written war challenge. We cant afford to lose this battle as our souls would vanish. But if we win, this case rted to the Wordlels Heavenly Book will be over. It seems that the people from the Longquan Vi couldnt wait anymore


    I was very worried. Senior Shu, is it okay if we dont ept this challenge? We just got here, and we dont know the enemys capacity yet.


    Senior Shu shook his head and fell deep in thought. The Five Spirits Written War Challenge isnt like other challenges. The person who receives the challenge has only two options. First option, reject the challenge. In that case, theyll bebeled as a coward, and it would be the same as if theyd lost. Second option, ept the challenge and use their abilities to overpower the enemy.


    Li Mazi was mad. Damn, who created these stupid rules? It means we cant even reject the challenge. How is this a fairpetition?! Chief, you should arrest those people!


    The Chief gave an awkward smile and said nothing.


    Since we were at a dead end, hiding wouldnt help us. I turned and asked Senior Shu, What are our chances to win?


    Senior Shu pondered for a while. If Im on my own, I would probably lose. However, if the two of us join hands, perhaps we have a chance.


    All right, I said. The Longquan Vi has already backed us into a corner already. If we dont counterattack, they will keep bullying us. I cant let them have their way!


    We should get ready, Senior Shu said. We still have some time.


    Then, he turned to talk to the Chief. Chief, do you have the authority to carry out death sentences here?


    The Chief was puzzled, unsure what Senior Shu meant. However, he still nodded.


    Senior Shu continued, Where do you bury those criminals whose bodies are not imed?


    The Chief thought then answered, In a public cemetery not far from here.

 Chapter 299: Night Parade of One Hundred Ghosts

    Chapter 299: Night Parade of One Hundred Ghosts


    Thats good, Senior Shu said. I will need to use the remains of those criminals, unearth twenty of them. Remember, the more evil the criminals were, the better. You should go now. Everything must be ready before 8 PM.


    The Chief was startled and looked at Senior Shu with fearful eyes. Senior Shu, what will you do with those corpses? Im a government official, so its not convenient for me to do these things.


    I was enraged. Dont do it then. Well no longer take care of this matter. You can just wait for the Five Ghosts toe to your police station again. Since they have dared to intrude the ce in broad daylight, their evil and resentful energies have far surpassed that of ordinary evil spirits. In case you dont know, they can kill people very easily


    My threat worked, and the Chief repeatedly apologized to us. Please dont get angry. Im going to get it done right now.


    I nodded and asked him to hurry.


    Senior Shu asked Zhang Ai to take us to a traditional Chinese hospital. We wanted to buy herb grinding mills and some human blood.


    Zhang Ai was puzzled. Senior Shu, why do you want these strange things?


    Youll know when the timees.


    Of course, I knew what Senior Shu wanted to do with these things. He was going to grind the skeletons of the criminals into powder. However, I didnt tell Zhang Ai so as to avoid scaring her.


    After we had prepared everything, we returned to the police station to rest. We called the Chief, and he told us that he was still preparing the things we needed; it would take him one more hour.


    Weter discovered that the Chief had contacted a local gangster to get the job done.


    Around one hourter, a group of people brought twenty bags into the morgue. They threw the bags there and left in a hurry. I guessed they all thought it would bring them bad luck to stay here any further.


    The Chief was very thoughtful. Not only did he move the corpses directly to the morgue, but he also put a tag on each bag that listed the deceased persons basic information like their name, age, and the crime they hadmitted.


    He told us to be careful as we had to return the corpses after we were done with them.


    Senior Shu readily agreed with him.


    Tonight, therell be a big fight in this ce. Im afraid itll be very tough and dangerous. You should limit the number of people who will stay in the police station. Also, no one should be on duty tonight, Senior Shu told the Chief.


    The Chief agreed.


    After the Chief was gone, I read some of the tags on the bags. These people hadmitted horrible crimes. They raped, killed, burned down homes, and received bribes. There was even one person who hadmitted treason.


    I asked Senior Shu, Were these people considered very sinful?


    Senior Shu answered with a smirk, Of course.


    I couldnt help but worry as the chances of these wicked souls reincarnating werent big. If we moved their remains like this, we could anger them, which could put us in danger.


    Senior Shu smiled. Its okay. When the timees, Im sure theyll be so scared that they wont even recognize their own corpses!


    Li Mazi chimed in, Of course they wont. You are going to crush them into powder, arent you? It would be strange if they could recognize their bodies at that time.


    Zhang Ai looked at us with a strange expression. I guessed she didnt believe that we would grind these skeletons into powder.


    Senior Shu said that there was no time to waste, so he started taking action. At first, he found a big basin to break the bones. After breaking the bones, we used the herb grinding mills we had bought to grind the bones into powder.


    I wasnt surprised by the process. However, Zhang Ai couldnt stand it, and her expression changed again and again. She had tried very hard to put up with it for around five minutes. Then, she left the room.


    The three of us took turns crushing the bones, putting the powder back into the bags after we were done. We had ground up all twenty skeletons in less than one hour.


    As everything was done, it was now time to wait patiently. Senior Shu wanted us to take action after all the staff in the police station had clocked off.


    However, Zhang Ai thought that it would be dark by the time the staff clocked off. Fiddling with these skeletons at such ate time was really scary to her, so she directly called the Chief and asked him to let the staff leave earlier.


    After all the staff had left, I went to lock the door to the police station. We then took a walk around the office. With the morgue as the center, we marked twenty areas. Senior Shu asked us to dig a small hole in these marked areas and put the bags of skeleton powder in there. After everything was done, we had to drip some blood drops onto the bags.


    I was curious as to why Senior Shu did that, but I didnt ask. We had to seize the time and do the job.


    It was really unnerving to bury the bone powder thiste.


    After wepleted the tasks, the sky was already dark. We then gathered in the morgue and asked Senior Shu what to do next.


    Senior Shus eyes shifted from Li Mazi to Zhang Ai. You two shouldnt stay in the police station tonight. Im not sure if I can protect the two of you.


    Li Mazi wasnt pleased. Ive experienced all kinds of hardships. Would I be afraid of some ghosts?


    Zhang Ai didnt say anything. However, I could tell that she didnt want to leave. After all, we were taking risks to protect her. Since she was the cause of this, if she left, she would feel guilty.


    Senior Shu answered, Its okay if you dont want to leave, but youll have to stay inside the morgue tonight. You shouldnt step outside out it as staying in the morgue would be safer.


    Li Mazi was surprised. Why would it be safer to stay in the morgue?


    Sometimes, the most dangerous ce is also the safest.


    Li Mazi smacked his tongue and kept quiet.


    Senior Shu looked at me and said, Come, lets have a walk.


    I knew that Senior Shu wanted to tell me something in private. I followed him.


    Senior Shu took me all the way to the office and looked at me with a heavy countenance. Are you scared? You still have time to back off. You can take your woman with you and go somewhere far away. As long as the Longquan Vi people dont spot you, you can still live the life of a normal man.


    I chuckled. Senior Shu, whats the point of saying all of this now? Do you think I still have a way back?


    Senior Shu sighed. Its because you dont know the seriousness of what will happen tonight. If we make a mistake, let alone losing your life, you wont even have a chance to reincarnate.


    I gasped. What Senior Shu had just told me was beyond my expectation. Originally, I was confident in Senior Shus skills, but now, it seemed that not even Senior Shu had faith in himself. I wondered what kind of situation we were encountering this time.


    Senior Shu kept silent for a while then asked, Have you ever heard of the Night Parade of One Hundred Ghosts?


    I knew about the Night Parade of One Hundred Ghosts. This legend had originated during the shogunate period in Japan. It was a parade of many ghosts and monsters. Wherever they went, corpsesid everywhere and people lived in misery. However, I didnt know how this was rted to this case.


    The ck feather they sent us is actually the feather of a catcrow. Catcrows are a sort of half yin and half yang animals. In folktales, they are messengers of the Netherworld that live in the world of the living. They specialize in waking up sleeping monsters and ghosts. The Longquan Vi put a catcrow feather between the pages of the Wordless Heavenly Book to awaken the souls imprisoned in the book. I counted the number of pages. There are one hundred pages, which means that the book is the home of one hundred souls.


    He continued, Im afraid those one hundred souls have been awakened already. Tonight is the time they are free to do whatever they want, and theyll give birth to a magnificent Night Parade of One Hundred Ghosts. If we are careless, we wont be able to control the situation. The formation I have set up is called Fiery Thunderbolt Formation, but Im not sure if it can subdue one hundred evil souls. Sigh, if the situation goes out of our control, the consequences will be terrible for me as I set up the formation.


    I rarely saw Senior Shu look as distressed as he did today. Since he wasnt confident about the battle that was going to happen tonight, I knew things could get very dangerous.


    We had lost the physiological battle before even starting. I immediatelyforted him. Senior Shu, I dont think well lost if we work together. Moreover, if we cant handle it, we still can call the Zhang family for help.


    Senior Shu forced a smile. Its useless. I guess the Zhang family is also in trouble. The Longquan Vis schemes run deep. In order to deal with a little girl like Zhang Ai, theyve used such a tremendous otherworldly item. To deal with the Zhang family, theyll use something even stronger. It would be good enough if the Zhang family can preserve some of its elite force.


    I was startled. It was just the beginning of the battle, and Senior Shu believed that the Zhang family already had the lower hand in the situation. If this continued, it wouldnt be long before the Longquan Vi eradicated the Zhang family.


    I took a deep breath and didnt dare to think about it further. Senior Shu, is there any other solution?

 Chapter 300: Fiery Thunderbolt Formation

    Chapter 300: Fiery Thunderbolt Formation


    Senior Shu thought for a while then said, Thats why I wanted to talk to you. I want you to take control of the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation and attract most of the enemys firepower. As for me, Ill stay in the rear and ambush them. Well gradually wear them out and kill them. If we cooperate well, perhaps we can win this.


    I nodded. Sounds good. Lets do that.


    Senior Shu sighed again. Dont you want to think about yourself for a moment?


    I gave a bitter smile. Our Zhang family might be destroyed soon. If that happens, Im likely to die as well. I would rather try my best here. As long as you dont leave me, Im not afraid of death.


    Senior Shu said, You dont even know what youre going to face. I want you to be the eye of the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation, and you will have to bear arge part of the formations power. Moreover, you will have to bear the resistance from those twenty wicked souls. Im worried that your body wont be able to endure it.


    He continued, If you fail, the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation will backfire on you. If that happens, not only you, but all of us will be in grave danger. The more Senior Shu talked, the less confident he sounded. What Im afraid of the most is that your body wont be able to handle the formations power


    I forced a smile and said, But we dont have a better option, do we? We can only give it a try. Ill do my best.


    Good. Senior Shu nodded and said, Im going to tell you the incantation to control the formation. You have to remember it. Using the incantation will maximize the power of the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation. Here, take this spirit boosting pellet. When you find that you cant stand it anymore, swallow it. It will help you put up with it for a while.


    I carefully stored the pellet away and started to learn the Fiery Thunderbolt Incantation.


    When I memorized the incantation, it was around 10 PM. We didnt have any more time to waste. We had to get ready for the battle.


    I was worried about Li Mazi and Zhang Ai. Senior Shu, will Li Mazi and Zhang Ai be safe in the morgue? If not, we should force them to leave.


    Senior Shu answered, Dont worry. As long as they stay in the morgue and do not step out, theyll be safer than wandering outside the police station. After all, Zhang Ai is on the Longquan Vis list of people they want to kill.


    I nodded and told him that I understood.


    Senior Shu took me to the front of the morgue and asked me to draw a circle. You should never leave this circle. Its the eye of the formation, and you have to stay within the circle to maximize the power of the formation. When the timees, use your spiritual power to activate the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation. No matter what happens, you have to hold on.


    Then, Senior Shu left to find a hideout. He nned to break the enemy formation with a sneak attack.


    Li Mazi and Zhang Ai came by and asked if they could give us a hand. Staying in the morgue made them restless and fearful. They thought I was better off as I was standing outside.


    I scolded them. Youre so lucky, and you dont even appreciate it. I would rather stay in the morgue and feel fearful than stand here and wait for the danger toe. You have no idea how scary it is! When the timees, you shouldnt leave the morgue. I wont have the time to protect the two of you. It would ruin our n.


    Li Mazi lowered his head in distress. Are you sure about this? I can tell from Senior Shus face that things dont look good.


    Enough, nothing bad will happen to you two.


    While talking, I felt a strange wind blow in the morgue. Right after that, I heard the rattling noise of the pages being flipped.


    I was startled. Li Mazi, Zhang Ai, get back in the morgue and stay there. No matter what happens, do note out.


    Li Mazi immediately grabbed Zhang Ais hand and rushed into the morgue while I watched the entrance.


    The wind became stronger. Sand grains and stones rolled in, and I couldnt keep my eyes open. The pages of the Wordless Heavenly Book flipped and rattled.


    <em>They areing!</em> I carefully watched the entrance. I was prepared to read the incantation to activate the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation at any time.


    While I was contemting, a ck mist burst from the morgue. I turned to see and shivered in fear.


    The ck mist separated at speed visible to the naked eye. Soon after, they became human shapes that lunged toward me.


    Without hesitation, I started to read the incantation, which activated the formation.


    The moment the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation was activated, I felt cold air hit my body from every direction. In just a blink of an eye, it all entered my body.


    I felt the cold fill my body and freeze my organs. I couldnt breathe, and my whole body felt numb. I thought that I had lost my sense of touch.


    In just a few seconds, the souls had approached the border of the formation. It seemed they were ready to break through it.


    I didnt mind the pain and the cold that numbed my body; I continued to read the incantation.


    The cold became stronger and stronger. In the end, my lips stiffened as if they were frozen, and the sound I produced was hoarse.


    Whoosh~


    Eventually, I saw green mes appear and sh unceasingly at the border of the formation. The Fiery Thunderbolt Formation was sessfully activated.


    The souls that were attempting to escape the formation were sent backward by the shing mes. They crouched on the ground and couldnt contain their rage.


    Since I had somewhat adapted to this annoying pain, I found the strength to look at the souls.


    The souls wore rough ancient clothes, and their faces looked malicious. They neatly stood in groups, and ominous light sparked in their eyes as they gazed at me.


    The one who led the group looked especially gruesome. His facial features shrank together, and he bared his sharp teeth at me. It felt as though he wanted to swallow me whole.


    I didnt waste time and read the incantation harder. Soon after, the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation stabilized and produced more mes.


    The ghosts didnt dare to approach me. As such, the leader snorted and charged toward the border of the formation one more time.


    I cursed under my breath. It seemed they wanted to forcefully break through the formation. I couldnt let that happen, so I kept chanting the incantation.


    After the leader charged toward the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation, he was sent backward. However, the souls behind him seemed fearless. They kept pushing to break the formation.


    The strange thing was that whenever they hit the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation, my body felt pain, just as if someone was hammering my insides.


    They kept attacking the formation, and the agony I had to endure became more intense. At this time, I felt as if those twenty mes were burning in my body. However, they brought no heat, only endless cold.


    The souls continuously hit the formation, which was no different than hitting my body, so I kept vomiting blood.


    They seemed to know that they could damage me this way. Although they couldnt break or escape the formation, they still forcefully hit the border.


    If they continued this way, I knew that I couldnt endure it any longer. My head buzzed, and my eyes blurred. I knew that I would lose consciousness soon.


    I took a deep breath to force myself to stay sane. Then, I swallowed the spirit pellet Senior Shu had given me.


    The cold in my stomach eased. However, it wasnt enough. Soon after, I, once again, felt a pain that put me on the edge of death. My head went nk, and I couldnt even remember the incantation.


    Right at this moment, a soul sessfully broke through the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation and ran out.


    I felt as if someone had made a hole in my stomach. My spirit energy quickly drained, and I could no longer move. Iy on the ground, convulsing as if I had received an electric shock.


    <em>Its over!</em>I thought to myself.

 Chapter 301: Chuyi Coming to the Rescue

    Chapter 301: Chuyi Coming to the Rescue


    A light shed from a hidden corner, swiftly striking the soul that had just escaped with great precision. The soul screamed, turning into a mass of dark mist as it perished.


    I tried to focus and saw that it was Senior Shu. He was hiding in the dark andunching his attacks. I rxed as Senior Shus n to kill those souls one by one was working.


    I hoped I could hold until the end.


    More and more souls ran outside the circr formation. However, as soon as they got out, Senior Shu would attack them.


    Although these souls had long lost their sanity, they were still smart enough. They began to hesitate after seeing their friends perish in the blink of an eye, and avoided jumping blindly outside the circle.


    Yet, those souls really wore me out when they attacked the formation earlier. Even the simple act of moving my fingers had be a challenge. I had to use almost all of my strength to mobilize the spirit power in my body and support the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation.


    While I was pondering, the horde of souls swarmed the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation once more time. Sparks and mes began to sh, and the green mes reached the sky, bombarding those souls just like real thunderbolts striking down from the sky.


    Of course, my body also had to endure excruciating pain.


    Eventually, there was arge explosion, and the formation cracked. If it werent for my strong self-control, Im afraid I would have gone into shock already.


    The formation was left in shambles, and the green mes were gone. The ghosts started swarming in Senior Shus direction.


    <em>Not good!</em>


    I was desperate. The Fiery Thunderbolt Formation couldnt even kill half of the ghosts before it was destroyed. The remaining ghosts were still too powerful for us. We were doomed!


    I looked at Senior Shu, and his face was aghast as he stared at those souls. Eventually, he gritted his teeth and stormed forward to stop the wave of evil ghosts. He held a spirit talisman in one hand while his other hand was making hand seals unceasingly.


    Although Senior Shus attacks were very effective earlier, which allowed him to kill the ghosts with one attack each, things were different now. The number of ghosts was too high, and the way they attacked was also special. They directly passed through Senior Shus body, and every time they did so, they hurt him. Soon, his movement began to stiffen


    He quickly swallowed a spirit pellet to boost his drained body. However, it was useless as the ghosts outnumbered him to a worrying degree. Senior Shu was like a walking corpse; his face was pale and devoid of expression, while his body was attacking almost by instinct.


    His attacks became weaker and weaker, until they were useless. Eventually, Senior Shu copsed to the ground.


    My eyes couldnt hide the despair I felt. Senior Shu had used spirit pellets to forcefully keep his body running. Even if the ghosts didnt kill him, it would be hard for him to survive


    The origin essence of a person was limited. If it was used up all at once, there wouldnt be a chance for revival


    Regardless, Senior Shu still looked at me, and his mouth moved as if he were telling me, Quick, run!


    <em>Run?</em> I had a bitter smile. With my current condition, standing up was already a problem, let alone running away.


    Senior Shu and I looked at each other. I was stunned when I saw his fearless expression.


    At this moment, someone gently patted my shoulder. I immediately turned around and saw that it was Li Mazi and Zhang Ai.


    I cursed in my head, <em>Damn, why did these twoe out?</em>


    Dont talk. Li Mazi sobbed as he said, Im going to take you out of here.


    Then, he turned around and put me on his back, rushing toward the morgue.


    I was freaking out. Why didn''t Li Mazi listen to me? Those ghosts were looking for prey, and this guy kindly delivered himself. Since his Yang energy wasnt concealed, those souls would surely spot him!


    Sure enough, the souls stopped wreaking havoc when they saw Li Mazi. All of them turned to look at him. Then, just like a gust of wind, they swarmed toward Li Mazi and Zhang Ai.


    I was startled. Even though I felt powerless, I tried to speak, Run Run, hurry!


    However, it was toote. The evil wind wrapped around us and turned into a small tornado. Sand and stones were flying everywhere, clouding my vision. Right after, Li Mazis body shivered, and we both fell to the ground.


    I was already very weak, and when Li Mazi made me fall, I almost died.


    Disregarding the pain, I tried to look at Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi and Zhang Ai had their eyes half closed; their faces grimaced while standing on tiptoe. A horde of souls had surrounded me already. Although they were covered in mes, I could still see their malicious faces.


    Why did you burn us! Li Mazi and Zhang Ai screamed in unison, their voices as loud as thunder. The strong sound waves made my eardrums ache.


    I didnt even have the strength to talk. I could only lie on the ground and watch as Li Mazi and Zhang Ai approached.


    Why did you burn us The two kept repeating while walking toward me. The other souls also tightened their circle around me. The me on their bodies exuded coldness that could chill to the bone. My consciousness slowly drifted away, taking me one step closer to going into shock.


    At this critical moment, a profound voice came from afar.


    In the dark North, there is fire thates from the sky. Gold light shines, reaching far and wide. Thunderbolts, go and subdue the ghosts!


    This voice, tone, and even the words he had just recited were quite familiar.


    <em>Its Chuyis voice! He also knows the Fiery Thunderbolt Incantation!</em>


    I was overjoyed. My blurry consciousness became clearer, and I tried to lift my head to find the source of the sound.


    A young man with long bangs over his forehead stood at the police stations gate. He was wearing a yellow Daoist priest robe and had a long sword on his back. He slowly walked toward us.


    His voice seemed to have the power to calm ones heart. The fear and despair in my heart were gone, and I felt hope toward life again.


    All the souls were frightened. They stopped attacking me and turned around, trying to flee.


    However, it was toote. A lightning strike fell from the sky andnded on the formation before they managed to escape. The Fiery Thunderbolt Formation was activated one more time, and its mes reached the sky. The sound of thunder resounded unceasingly, and the evil souls screamed in panic.


    Chuyi stopped reciting the incantation, allowing the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation to operate on its own. He moved closer to me, then squatted to wipe my face. Are you all right?


    I felt touched and nodded in response.


    Li Mazi coughed and urged him, Brother, kill those bastards.


    Chuyi slightly shook his head. They are also miserable. There is no need to eradicate them.


    Then, he stood with pride outside the Fiery Thunderbolt Formation, his cold eyes looking at the souls that were running away. You are not qualified to negotiate with me. You have two choices You can either die or reincarnate!

 Chapter 302: Burning Books and Burying the Confucian Scholars

    Chapter 302: Burning Books and Burying the Confucian Schrs


    Please spare us! Please spare us! the sorrowful souls screamed and cried, begging for mercy.


    Chuyi snorted. He knew that those souls had already been tormented half to death by the formation. As long as he gave them a way out, they would dly take it. He immediately threw a talisman while reciting some incantation. Go!


    A lightning strike descended from the sky and tore a fissure in the air. The cold wind came in waves, carrying the souls into the space fissure; all of them disappeared in the blink of an eye. The scene quieted down as if nothing had ever happened.


    I could finally rx.


    However, my vision blurred as soon as I rxed. Everything became ck, and I lost consciousness shortly after.


    When I woke up, I found myself in a hospital room with IV tubes stuck to my body. I didnt have the least bit of strength, and my mouth felt dry and bitter. I tried to open my eyes, calling for water. Zhang Ai clumsily poured me some.


    I felt somewhat better after taking a sip of water. I looked around and found Chuyi, Li Mazi, Zhang Ai, and the gold-toothed man in my hospital room.


    I exhaled in relief and really felt like an undying cockroach. I was surprised I could survive the whole ordeal.


    I gave Li Mazi a wry smile. Are you all right?


    Li Mazi sighed. You should worry about yourself first. Can you believe that youve been unconscious for a whole week? I was afraid you wouldnt be able to recover this time.


    I was surprised to discover that I had been hospitalized for a whole week.


    I wiggled while trying to sit up, but Li Mazi asked me to lie back as he adjusted my bed.


    The ce seemed to be a VIP hospital room since everything lookedvish. I looked around and couldnt find Senior Shu. Li Mazi, wheres Senior Shu?


    Li Mazis face changed. His reaction made my heart sink. Did he


    No, thats not it. Li Mazi exined, He hasnt woken up yet. The doctor said that its up to his willpower whether he can wake up or not. But theres the chance that hell remain in a vegetative state.


    My heart throbbed with deep difort.


    The gold-toothed manforted us, Please dont worry. The Zhang family will do its utmost to help. We will supply all kinds of elixirs to cure Senior Shu. Even if he dies, we will bring him ba


    At this moment, Chuyis face turned cold, with wrath shing in his eyes. He grabbed the gold-toothed mans cor. If something happens to them, I will bury the whole Zhang family alongside them!


    The gold-toothed man was scared out of his wits, and cold sweat started to trickle down his forehead. Daoist Priest Chuyi, dont worry. Im sure my Zhang family will do its best to save them. Well spare no effort!


    That would be better. Chuyi snorted and said, You should seize the time and call the head of the Zhang family before I change my mind.


    The gold-toothed man nodded, leaving the room with a gloomy face.


    I was surprised. I recalled having been in more dangerous situations, but Chuyi had never been this angry. What happened to him today?


    I knew there was something else to it. Chuyi, did the gold-toothed man hide something from us?


    Chuyi answered in a cold tone, The Zhang family used you.


    They used us? I looked at Chuyi in puzzlement. Is there some kind of misunderstanding? I know the Zhang familys situation. They cant afford to have any internal strife.


    They used you as bait so I would get involved, Chuyi said. They knew you werentpetent enough, and yet they asked you toe and deal with the Wordless Heavenly Book. They hoped that I would show up when you were about to be killed. It would force me to stand against the Longquan Vi.


    What?! After I heard that, I spat out a mouthful of blood. Damn, those bastards


    I was really mad and hated the fact that I couldnt tear apart the Zhang family right at this instant. Using us to drag Chuyi into this mess was really despicable.


    I felt a little guilty once my rage started to cool down. Chuyi waspletely unrted to this matter, but now he was involved because of me.


    Li Mazi and Zhang Ai were also furious. Li Mazi wanted to look for the gold-toothed man to beat him up. However, Chuyi stopped him.


    Even if they didnt trick you, Id have gotten involved sooner orter. I cant just stand there and watch as you and Senior Shu get killed.


    I sighed as I looked at Chuyi. My heart felt warm after his response.


    Chuyi had always helped me, but I had yet to return a single favor. And now, he was involved in the fight between two forces because of me. I felt guilty toward him.


    However, there was something I couldnt understand. Why did Chuyi always help me while getting nothing in return?


    I asked him, but he didnt answer, so I could only give up.


    Li Mazi asked Chuyi, Do you know anything about the Wordless Heavenly Book? That books quite odd. Its made of human skin.


    Chuyi nodded. I used to have that book. I sold it to the Longquan Vi.


    The Wordless Heavenly Book was a relic from the Qin dynasty. All of the pages were made ofpressed and air-dried human skin. Before the book was bound, the skin was treated with the best anti-corrosive technique at the time.


    The one who had made that book was the Qin dynastys Chancellor Li Si, who hade up with the policy of burning the books and burying the schrs.


    Everybody knew that Qin Shihuang embraced tyrannical policies and bore an extreme grudge against the schrs who stood against him and nagged about morals. Together with his Chancellor Li Si, they had orchestrated the most tragic case of ughter in history. They had killed millions of Confucian students and schrs, burning them together with the books they loved.


    To earn points and be in Qin Shihuangs good graces, Li Si found some executioners and skinned one hundred Confucian schrs to create the Wordless Heavenly Book. Then, he burned them alive.


    Those Confucian schrs had endured inhuman torture before they were killed, so their resentful energy was really strong. After they died, their souls were bound to the Wordless Heavenly Book and survived for the next thousands of years.


    Qin Shihuang had burned books and buried talented people to strengthen his rule and allow his descendants to sit on the throne.


    However, he didnt expect that his policy of burning books and burying Confucian schrs would be unable to seal peoples mouths. Quite the contrary, it had boosted their hatred against the Qin dynasty. Dozens of yearster, the Qin dynasty overturned by the enraged citizens and copsed.


    Whether the ruler was good or bad, or how his country grew, history would tell. Using force to stop people from talking was the most stupid method.


    This was a principle that had remained unchanged from ancient times until now, and it applied even to this day.

 Chapter 303: Collecting Goods

    Chapter 303: Collecting Goods


    I passed the next few days in the hospital so that I could recover. After taking countless elixirs, Senior Shu also woke up, which made me feel relieved. Now, he just needed to rest well to get better.


    However, I felt a lump in my chest ever since discovering that the Zhang family had used us. Even though they gave me some good stuff and tried to shorten the distance between us, the damage was done.


    Since Chuyi had joined our side, the Longquan Vi refrained from taking action; there were no new attacks.


    Chuyi told me, The Longquan Vi is still mourning over the loss of the Wordless Heavenly Book, so they wont bother you for the time being. Open your shop and do some business. It might help you improve your skills.


    If I were stronger, I could defend myself in case the Longquan Vi attacked.


    I nodded and left with Li Mazi. Senior Shu had mostly recovered, and there was no need to worry about him now. However, he also spat out a mouthful of blood when he discovered that the Zhang family had used him.


    If he were strong enough to stand up, he would have dashed right away to settle this grudge with the Zhang family.


    My antique shop was located within the Longquan Vis territory, but they didnt try to harm me since they were wary of the Zhang family.


    Business wasnt going welltely, and no one came to my shop. I knew it was the Longquan Vi stealthily affecting my business, but I was toozy to care. It was good that I didnt have any work to do as I could rest and spend more time with Yin Xinyue.


    I didnt have a single case for two whole months. As the weather was neither warm nor too hot, I would often take Yin Xinyue out for dinner or travel with her. Yin Xinyueughed and told me that she could feed me for the rest of my life and that I didnt need to take risks anymore.


    Still, I couldnt live off a woman like that. I was a man with strong self-esteem!


    As I didnt have a steady flow of ie anymore, I finally realized how expensive things were. The savings I had were draining fast, and my antique shop had no customers. I had to ask Li Mazi to inquire around if we could find any case rted to otherworldly items.


    Li Mazi was even more restless as he needed to provide for his son as well. He tried to look around, but he found nothing in the end.


    I was a little distressed, thinking that if I couldnt make it there, I might as well move to the area managed by the Zhang family to make ends meet!


    While I was getting anxious about my future livelihood, an antique shop owner, who also happened to be my neighbor, suddenly came and asked me to help him appraise an antique.


    Of course, it was a free appraisal. I didnt say much and just helped him check the item.


    It was a square-shaped ink b with a ruined corner. The item didnt look too bad overall and exuded a strong smell of ink. At first nce, I knew it was around a thousand years old.


    I took out a magnifying ss to study the item. In the end, I concluded that it was from the Tang dynasty. Mr. Qi, how much did you pay for this?


    Mr. Qi gave me a mysterious smile as if he had made a killing this time. One thousand renminbi.


    It seemed Mr. Qi had collected a very good item from some ignorant farmer.


    Mr. Qi was a savvy businessman, and he was best at collecting goods from people who werent in this business. No matter if it was a filthy rich man or a penniless farmer, as long as they had something good, he would use his silver tongue to collect the item.


    That was why Mr. Qi had the most thriving business in this antique street.


    It was quite amusing that Mr. Qis monthly ie  someone who hadnt graduated from high school and was practically half-illiterate  was higher than a medium-sizedpanys manager.


    Mr. Qi often said that if he had gone to college, perhaps he would have ended up bing a small official, living in a small town and struggling through life to pay back his loan and the mortgage for his car and house. He might have also been unable to get married. Hence, his mantra was knowledge can change ones destiny!


    Anyway, I didnt see him for the next several days, which was rather strange.


    Since Mr. Qi was a man who liked to brag around, he often walked on this antique street when he had free time, carrying a walnut in his left hand and a teapot in his right one. He loved boasting and flirting with women.


    One day, around evening, I sat on my reclining chair as usual and chatted with the owners of the neighboring shops.


    I havent seen Mr. Qi in a while. Thats very strange, said Baiyu Xishi.


    Little Xishi, do you miss him? Just openly chase after him if you do. Lurking in the dark is not fun.


    Old Ma, are you crazy? Does it look like Im into that ugly ghost? Anyway, I was serious. Dont you guys find it strange? Mr. Qi closed his shop and hasnt gone out for days.


    Yeah, its strange, though. Could it be that he died at home alone? People began to discuss boisterously.


    Well, since he likes collecting strange things, some evil item might be pestering him.


    Its not easy to find such an item. Chances are that some enemy of his dropped by. That bastard tricked a lot of people, so he must have a lot of enemies.


    The conversation became weirder and weirder. In the end, they all agreed to send me to Mr. Qis to check on him.


    I gave a wry smile and couldnt help but blurt, Dont you guys have anything better to do? You should take care of your own shops instead of worrying about others. Mr. Qi has earned big this time, and I think hes gone somewhere to enjoy life.


    Everyoneughed and joked for a while, and we decided to let this matter go.


    However, I couldnt forget about the matter. At night, I rolled in my bed, unable to fall asleep. I remembered thest time I met Mr. Qi, when he came to my shop with that ink b. Even if the seller was clueless, he or she wouldnt have sold the item for just one thousand renminbi.


    Was that ink b an otherworldly item? Was someone trying to harm Mr. Qi?<em></em>


    The more I thought about it, the more restless and anxious I became. I decided to go and check on him.


    Yin Xinyue drowsily asked me, Where are you going?


    Im going out for a while.


    Yin Xinyue fell back asleep, and I gently nted a kiss on her forehead before going.


    The bright moon hung high in the sky, and the air was refreshing. It was rare for this world to have such a quiet moment. The sound of cicadas seemed to be the only melody in the world; it helped people settle their worried minds.


    As I walked toward Mr. Qis house, a womans crying and scolding broke the silence. I frowned and followed the sound.


    It came from Mr. Qis house. Under the pale moonlight, I could make out two people fighting in the small courtyard of Mr.Qis house.


    <em>Are that Mr. Qi and his wife? What are they doing in the middle of the night?</em>


    I was startled and hurried to knock on their door. The two finally stopped fighting, which made me exhale in relief.


    I couldnt hold myughter the moment I saw them.


    Mr. Qi and Mrs. Qi looked quite disheveled as their clothes were all torn. Mr. Qi was a fat man, and his fat rolls werepletely exposed. It was quite the ugly sight.


    Meanwhile, Mrs. Qi was a different case altogether. She would constantly care about her looks, and although she was in her thirties, she looked really charming. Her current messy appearance made her look even sexier. I felt somewhat attracted.


    <em>This woman is really an enchantress!</em> I shook my head and did my best to stay sane.


    As soon as Mrs. Qi saw me, she cried, Little Brother Zhang, you must help me! This man has a mistress outside! How could he?!


    I couldnt help butugh. <em>I didnt think Mr. Qi had it in him. To fish around when he has such a beautiful wife at home...</em>


    I turned to Mr. Qi. Mr. Qi, you


    Mr. Qi sighed and interrupted me. Since ancient times, it is known that women and enemies are the hardest to manage. You shrew, we shall part ways from now on. Then, he turned around and entered his room.


    I felt that Mr. Qi was acting a little strange today. <em>Wasnt he illiterate? Why did he sound so elegant and well-educated just now...?</em>

 Chapter 304: Mr. Qi Is Acting Weird

    Chapter 304: Mr. Qi Is Acting Weird


    Mrs. Qi was enraged and chased after him. What did you say?! I dare you to say that again!


    However, Mr. Qi seemed to have made up his mind, and he mmed the door shut.


    Mrs. Qi had almost lost herself in rage. She cursed and cried by the door, but it was to no avail. Mr. Qi didnt show the faintest reaction.


    My furrowed my brows and had a bad premonition. Mr. Qi looked too strange. Everybody knew that although Mr. Qi was a cunning businessman, he wholeheartedly loved his wife. It was rare that he would get angry at her. As such, I wondered what had gotten into him tonight. How could he treat his wife so badly?


    Mrs. Qi cried her heart out. Little Brother Zhang, why am I so unlucky?! Its thiste, and I have nowhere to stay. Even my purse is still inside the house...


    I stood bewildered for a while. Then, I got a hold of myself and replied, Im going to talk to Mr. Qi.


    Mrs. Qi grabbed my arm. Little Brother Zhang, please dont go. I lost my hope in him. I dont want to live with him anymore.


    I was reluctant, but I still did my best to cheer her up. Unfortunately, Mrs. Qi was too disappointed in her husband, so I couldnt talk her out of it. I was eventually at a loss for what to do.


    Little Brother Zhang, can I stay at your shop tonight? Mrs. Qi said, Please, help me this time.


    My heart sank. <em>Is this a joke? She wants to sleep at my shop tonight?</em>


    I knew what she had in mind by looking at her seductive eyes. This woman was a real vixen. I waved my hand continuously. No, Maam. Xinyues sleeping in my shop. It wouldn''t be convenient.


    Mrs. Qi smiled even more charmingly. Then we should go to a hotel.


    Okay. I nodded. The hotel facing your house isnt bad. You should go there. Its reallyte now, and I have to go home.


    B-But I dont have any money or IDs. Little Brother Zhang, can you help me and rent a room for me? Mrs. Qi gripped my arm and begged. She didnt want to let go of me.


    My hands were tied now. She was a hot sweet potato that I couldnt shake off. Left with no choice, I could only nod. All right, Ill get a room for you.


    Mrs. Qi smiled happily and pulled me toward the inn.


    I had goosebumps all over. It was improper to mess around with my friends wife. Moreover, I wasnt even interested in her. I hurried to free myself from Mrs. Qis grip.


    She didnt get angry. Instead, she turned and smiled at me instead. You dont have experience with women, do you?


    I was speechless. I didnt know how to deal with this ambiguous situation.


    Eventually, I had to take Mrs. Qi to the inn and use my ID to rent a room for her.


    I wanted to leave right after, but Mrs. Qi grabbed my arm again. Little Brother Zhang, can you stay and talk with me for a while? I feel very sad. Please, Im begging you.


    Mrs. Qi cried nonstop, and the nearby hotel clerk gave me an odd look. I was embarrassed, so I had to agree with her.


    I followed Mrs. Qi, and the atmosphere immediately turned awkward as we both entered the room.


    I wanted to know more about her husbands situation. From his behavior, I suspected that he was being haunted by something.


    However, before I could ask, Mrs. Qi beganining.


    Sigh... Little Brother Zhang, you tell me, why is it so hard to live as a woman? The reason I married Old Qi was that I appreciated his character, and Ive always done my best to fulfill my obligations as a wife. But what about him? Hes not a decent man at all!


    I sneered inwardly. <em>His character? I think you appreciate his money more!</em>


    She continued, sobbing, Its okay if hygiene is not his forte, or if he likes bragging all the time. My only gripe is that he cant evenst thirty seconds in bed. He usually finishes before I can feel anything. You dont know how hard its been for me to carry on all these years


    Im a woman, and I want to know what it really feels to be one. Am I wrong to wish for this? I cant stand him. He has never satisfied me, not even once.


    Mrs. Qi had sobbed for a while. I could see her tears and even her nose running as she was telling me about her sorrows.


    However, I wasnt fooled by her actions. She wanted to put up a struggling front while actually tempting me. That was her real purpose.


    I said helplessly, Maam, both of you two have a big age gap. You should have considered his health and body condition when you married him. Anyway, if youve made up your mind, you can just divorce him and marry someone else! I cant help you with this.


    Mrs. Qi looked at me as if she couldnt believe what she had heard. I guessed she was surprised that I didnt bite her tempting hook.


    However, she didnt give up. Shey in bed and shed her pink panties, making me speechless.


    Then, Mrs. Qi directly got to the point. Little Brother Zhang, we should make things clear. I need a man, and youre a nice looking fellow... so lets do it! I promise I will never disclose this. We can go our separate ways after tonight.


    It seemed she no longer cared about face or dignity. As such, I stood up and looked at Mrs. Qi with a serious expression on my face. Maam, I hope youll behave yourself. You know that your husband and I are neighbors, right? I cant do this.


    Then, I turned around and prepared to leave.


    Mrs. Qi stormed forward and hugged me. Little Brother Zhang, how can you be so heartless? You know how lonely and scared I am at this time. Old Qi has treated me badly, and now youre doing the same. Men are so heartless!


    I forced a smile. Maam, all right. As long as you behave, I can sit here with you and talk about Mr. Qi. Do you feel that hes been acting strangetely?


    Mrs. Qi was somewhat confused, and her voice shook as she replied, Little Brother Zhang, you are you saying that Old Qi is possessed?


    I nodded and said, Its possible. Old Qi has changed a lot.


    After a while, Mrs. Qi began to feel worried. Actually, I still love my husband... I wouldnt be able to go on if something bad happened to him.


    I knew that Mr. Qi was like a money printing machine in her eyes. She was worried about the money, not his well-being. I sat down and asked her to tell me what had happened to them in recent days.


    Mrs. Qi began to sob again as she told me their story.


    Recently, she had taken her husband to her hometown. Mrs. Qi was from Hunan, which was pretty far away from here. Since she was pregnant, Mr. Qi didnt feel okay about her traveling alone, so he decided to drive her there.


    My heart felt a chill right then, thinking I was lucky for having kept a clear mind and not falling prey to her advances. It would have been a horrible mistake if we had done something that could cause the loss of Mr. Qis child.


    I couldnt believe how daring she was.


    Mr. Qi couldnt sit still after staying for a while in his wifes hometown. Whenever he had time, he would run around to collect antiques. When he eyed something nice, he would pester the owner and use any and all means to get it.


    That ink b was also something he bought in Mrs. Qis hometown.


    That ink b he bought for one thousand renminbi was actually worth around one hundred thousand renminbi in the market. Mr. Qi decided to go home first after he struck the deal since he was afraid that the seller would change his mind.


    Mrs. Qi began to feel bored after staying close to a week with her parents, so she decided to go back home shortly after.


    It was said that a little time apart brought more passion than the first wedding night. Mrs. Qi was in her prime, and her heart itched since she had been lonely for several days. She was looking forward to having a good time with her husband once she got back home. Although their rounds onlysted for thirty seconds or so, this could ease her thirst somewhat.


    However, Mrs. Qi saw that her house was a mess when she got back home. Sheets of Xuan paper were scattered everywhere, with drawings of beautiful women or calligraphy. The ink from some drawings had yet to dry; she guessed they had been just painted.


    Mr. Qi was so absorbed in his drawings that he didnt notice that his wife had returned. He kept drawing the beautiful ancient woman. This scene looked too strange!


    Mrs. Qi was startled. She knew her husbands academic level. He hadnt even graduated from high school, and his handwriting was absolutely terrible; drawing was out of the question. He didnt have any artistic sense, so how could he create these masterful drawings?


    Mrs. Qi was stunned. Old Qi, whats going on?


    But her husband ignored her and kept on drawing.


    Mrs. Qi tried to ask him more, but he just gave her some vague answer. Mrs. Qi didnt bother to ask again as she thought that her husband had just joined some drawing sses.


    Eager for a passionate night, she went to prepare nice food and red wine for a romantic dinner with candlelight. It would be excellent to boost the mood.


    Mr. Qi seemed interested in the delicious wine. While drinking, heposed a poem on the spot, which gave him the look of a poet from ancient times. Mrs. Qi was enthralled and aroused by his schrly aura.


    However, she discovered that things werent that simple when they went to bed. Mrs. Qi had used everything in her arsenal to seduce her husband, but Mr. Qi didnt understand her romantic approach and scolded her for being of easy virtue. Then, he ran outside to continue drawing.


    Mrs. Qi was furious, and they began quarreling.


    I got there right when they were fighting, and I already knew the rest of the story.


    I nodded and fell in deep thought after listening to Mrs. Qis story. There was no doubt about it... Based on Mrs. Qis retelling, it was quite possible that Mr. Qi was under someones influence!

 Chapter 305: Heart Blood

    Chapter 305: Heart Blood


    Mrs. Qi asked me, Can you tell me what is happening?


    I told Mrs. Qi what my thoughts were on the matter. I was absolutely certain that the cause of everything was the ink b her husband had bought at a low price.


    Mrs. Qi, do you know the origin of that ink b? Where did he get it? Was there something odd about the previous owner?


    Mrs. Qi shook her head. I know the previous owner as hes a neighbor of mine back in my hometown. He looks pretty ordinary, and it was his son who used this ink b. Although it was a family heirloom, itsmon for people in my hometown to possess such items.


    I was pensive while I nodded. It seems like Ill have to visit your house at night time. I saw dark circles under Mr. Qis eyes, and his face was yellowish. I guess he wont be able to endure for long.


    Mrs. Qi hurried to say, You must save my husband!


    Then she gave me the key to her house.


    I didnt know whether to cry orugh. It seemed Mrs. Qi had indeed tried to trick me as she didnt show me the key at first. I asked her to stay at the inn while I went to Mr. Qis.


    On the way there, I received Li Mazis call. Why arent you at your shop?


    Im on my way to Mr. Qis house.


    Li Mazi was startled. Did something really happen to him?


    I sighed and replied, From the clues Ive gathered, it seems that Mr. Qi has encountered some evil spirit, but Im not one hundred percent sure yet.


    I asked Li Mazi to join me at Mr. Qis; he readily agreed.


    The reason I dared to go to Mr. Qis house without making any preparations was that the soul dwelling in the ink b was that of a schr. A soul of such nature was unlikely to attack people.


    I could guess this much from Mr. Qis behavior. In all my previous encounters with otherworldly items, evil spirits would kill people without qualms. This time, the otherworldly item possessed someone just to draw beautiful pictures. Mr. Qi had just lost some weight for now; something that could really pose a threat to his life had yet to happen.


    I thought it would be best not to use force. Instead, it would be better if we could solve this matter by talking things over.


    Li Mazi was squatting next to Mr. Qis front door when I arrived. He got up and ran to meet me the moment he saw me. Why didn''t you bring any equipment?


    I told Li Mazi, We shouldnt use force. We have to persuade him with words. If he gets angry, well just leave. I dont think hell attack us.


    Li Mazi was still worried. Still, shouldnt we prepare something?


    Im here. What are you afraid of? I said helplessly.


    We knocked on his door, but Mr. Qi didnt open. I guessed he was simply ignoring us. Having no other choice, I had to use the key to open the door.


    Li Mazi was surprised when he saw the key. Arent you afraid that Yin Xinyue will be jealous?


    I couldnt help butugh. I have nothing to do with Mrs. Qi. You shouldnt let your mind wander.


    Li Mazi shrugged. All right, I trust you.


    All the house lights were off, and only some beams of light crept out of the bedroom. However, they looked really weak. I guessed the source wasnt electric; it might have been some sort of candlelight.


    <em>Is it a power shortage?</em> I looked at the power meter, and it was still on. Sure enough, it was Mr. Qi who was acting weird.


    We carefully walked through the living room and peeped through the slit. Mr. Qi was sitting at his desk, frowning. A white candle was lit up in front of him.


    His bright eyes were scrutinizing something, and he didnt even dare to blink. He stood still and sighed from time to time.


    Li Mazi wanted to call Mr. Qi, but I stopped him. Old Qi was very likely under the influence of some spirit. It could be dangerous if we disturbed him.


    While I was pondering whether Mr. Qi was possessed or not, I saw him lift his head and peer straight back at us. The expression in his eyes was proud, elegant, and full of disdain. It seemed he was offended by our presence.


    My heart skipped a bit. <em>Damn, he saw us!</em>


    His look was strange, totally different from Mr. Qis usual vulgar look. I knew it was the evil spirit that was watching.


    Since we had been discovered, there was no need to hide anymore. My intuition told me that he wouldnt hurt us.


    I took a deep breath and greeted him, Good morning, sir.


    Commoners whose head is filled with greed, youre not qualified to talk to me, he spat coldly then stood up, making his way toward us.


    My heart raced frantically. <em>Was he annoyed by our presence? Is he going to teach us a lesson? Im starting to regret not bringing any weapons!</em>


    Li Mazi was a little flustered. What should we do now? Do we beat him ck and blue?


    I waved my hand, gesturing him not to panic. I wanted to do what he was going to do.


    Mr. Qis gait was very elegant. He sped his hands behind his back, strolling leisurely as if he were a king walking around his pce.


    I forced myself to keep calm as I looked at Mr. Qi approaching us.


    When Mr. Qi reached us, he simply threw us a despising look. But he ignored us after that and walked out of the room.


    I exhaled in relief. It was good that he didnt attack us.


    He went straight to the bathroom after our brief encounter. He didnt even bother to close the door or take his clothes off; he directly sat inside the bathtub and closed his eyes, apparently enjoying the sensation.


    I was baffled. <em>What kind of evil spirit is this? Hes just enjoying life! He possessed someone to enjoy a good bath?!</em>


    What do we do? Do we just watch him take a nice and bubbly bath? asked Li Mazi.


    I scratched my head as I didnt know what to do. This fellow didnt act like the average evil spirit, so I didnt know how to deal with him.


    However, I decided to put up with him since we were already there and it would be a waste to leave without any clues.


    After taking a nice bath, Mr. Qi took off his clothes then went back to his desk, staring absentmindedly at the candlelight.


    A short moment after that, he did something that made our eyes pop out.


    He clenched his left fist and forcefully pounded his own chest.


    The blow was very strong, and I couldnt help but imagine how much it must have hurt.


    <em>Is he trying to harm himself?</em>


    It was prettymon for evil spirits to harm the possessed body.


    Li Mazi took a deep breath. Little Brother Zhang, how should we deal with him? Mr. Qi will die if this continues.


    I signaled Li Mazi to stay quiet and observe.


    I was anxiously trying toe up with a solution as I looked at Mr. Qi hit his own chest.


    Before I could find a solution, Mr. Qi whimpered. Then, he spurted out a mouthful of blood.


    <em>Thats heart blood!</em> I was shocked.


    The heart blood was the purest type of blood in a persons body; the Yang energy within was even stronger than the one found in fingertip blood. That was why Daoist priests used fingertip blood when arranging magic formations or drawing evil-expelling talismans. Only when they encountered something too hard to deal with would they use their heart blood.


    <em>All departed souls are afraid of heart blood, so why would this evil spirit make Mr. Qi spit it out?</em>


    Anyway, this exined why Mr. Qi looked pale and yellowish. It was because he often took baths and had his heart blood extracted.


    A persons heart blood was limited, and it was the foundation on which their body was built. After losing too much of it, the body would be weaker and prone to get sick.

 Chapter 306: The Drawing of a Bathing Beauty

    Chapter 306: The Drawing of a Bathing Beauty


    All of the heart blood was spat onto the ink b.


    I noticed that it was the same ink b that Mr. Qi had asked me to appraise several days before.


    The ink and the heart blood mixed together, but part of the blood was still floating up. As such, Mr. Qi started to stir them to achieve a nice mixture. The resulting ink had a strange color that I couldnt quite ce, but it was rather pleasing to the eye.


    Mr. Qi was very focused while doing this, and he didnt even look at us.


    He stirred the ink for a while then picked up his brush, starting to draw some calligraphy art. His strokes were strong and elegant, and his drawing skills were much better than famous calligraphy masters. It was hard to imagine that such profound writings hade from a half-illiterate person like Mr. Qi!


    He had written a bunch of tiny words that had only imed a very small area of the sheet of paper. There was still a lot of nk space. However, Mr. Qi didnt continue. He ced his brush back on the table and picked up the paper, reading aloud:


    <em>Last year, when we parted,</em>


    <em>Over at the southern garden, butterflies lingered by the flowers.</em>


    <em>This year, remembering the moment of our parting, I miss you;</em>


    <em>Auspicious clouds hover above the snow-capped southern mounts.</em>


    <em>Its three thousand miles from here to the Jade pass where you stay.</em>


    <em>I want to send you a letter; I wonder if you can receive it.</em>


    Mr. Qis voice was maic and clear, just like that of an announcer. As he read the ancient poem, he was able to mesmerize people.


    Li Mazi was bewildered. What is that guy doing? Was he a great poet when he was still alive?


    I shook my head as I didnt know how to answer.


    Then, Mr. Qi ced down the sheet of paper and grabbed his brush again, resuming his drawing.


    The mixture of ink and blood now had a strange, dark crimson color. The ancient poem he had written feltden with sorrow, and the way he was drawing made people feel a sense of sadness.


    After the drawing was done, I saw it was the picture of a beautiful woman taking a bath.


    Her long, ck hair lingered on her curvy body. Her skin was smooth as porcin, and her eyes deep like a quietke in autumn. Her private parts were also depicted in detail, which made people feel restless at a nce.


    The woman in the picture was elegant, and she looked almost real.


    Mr. Qi picked up his drawing, openly admiring; his eyes expressed his adoration for the woman.


    Li Mazi saw the picture and couldnt help but scoff, What a perv!


    I burst outughing, Youre probably the only pervert in the world who cant stand watching the painting of a beautiful woman.


    Li Mazi smiled embarrassedly. That womans too beautiful. Youre a man of virtue, Little Brother Zhang, so its okay for you to watch. However, that Old Qi doesn''t have such qualifications!


    I signaled Li Mazi not to talk nonsense and just watch. I wanted to know what Mr. Qi wanted to do.


    Mr. Qi sighed in disappointment. Then, he tore the drawing and crumpled the remains. His face was contorted due to the sorrow. I cant draw your beauty. I cant capture your character. I cant describe your charm or your smile


    Old Qi was so angry that he grabbed his hair and started pounding his chest like crazy. He looked like a real lunatic at this moment.


    Li Mazi was anxious. Should we stop him? It seems like he wants to harm himself.


    I shook my head. We could provoke him further if we try to stop his tantrum. If he really goes crazy, things will be troublesome for us.


    After hitting his chest for a while, Mr. Qi returned to writing poems and drawing pictures.


    He kept drawing all night, without stopping for even a moment. The beauty in his drawings was taking a bath, picking flowers, watching the moon, or even drinking Every single one of those drawings was marvelous.


    The woman in the pictures was very charming, and she could easily make others infatuated.


    Mr. Qi was never satisfied when he finished a painting. He would reprimand himself for not being able to capture the beauty of the woman, and also because his brush couldnt properly draw her stunning features. From his actions, we could tell that he waspletely obsessed with her.


    The room that Mrs. Qi had taken time to clean was now a mess again. Balls of crumpled paper were everywhere, and ink had sshed across the whole room.


    Just as I was wondering when Mr. Qi would quiet down, he suddenly rolled his eyes and copsed onto the ground. His body was feeble as ity paralyzed.


    I immediately rushed to check him. Luckily, he was fine and had only fallen unconscious.


    It was a sign that the spirit had left Mr. Qis body.


    I had to go back to my shop to prepare, but Mr. Qi needed someone to take care of him. After giving it some thought, I decided to call Mrs. Qi, requesting her to take care of her husband.


    I wasnt sure if she would return after what happenedst night. Luckily, Mrs. Qi had calmed down and agreed toe back.


    She was incensed the moment she saw the messy room, so I could only say something good about her husband. Mr. Qi didnt do it on purpose. Please dont me him.


    Mrs. Qi answered with a smile, Its all right. Since we are husband and wife, we must share both good times and bad times. I will be by his side, and well get through this together.


    I said with a smile, Excellent.


    Then, Mrs. Qi suddenly pulled me into her bedroom and asked Li Mazi to wait outside. I was startled, thinking that she wanted to do something ambiguous with me again.<em></em>


    As I was about to reject her with my righteous words, Mrs. Qi blushed and offered me an apology. Im sorry. I was a little drunkst night, and I wasnt in my right mind. Please dont take what happened to heart. You wont tell anyone about it, right?


    I smiled. Dont worry. I understand why you acted that way.


    Mrs. Qi exhaled in relief, then said with emotion, I just wanted to be with a real man for once. At the very least, it could ease the sadness in my heart a bit. Old Qi is a rough man, and he doesnt understand anything about romance. Its been a long time since I had a chance to enjoy romance or passionate nights with him. I think I need to ept who he is. Given his character, hell never be a romantic man.


    When I walked out of the room, Li Mazi kept asking me what we had talked about in the bedroom. Is it some shameful matter that you dont want others to know about?


    I really wanted to give him a beating as he was projecting his dirty thoughts on me. In his imagination, when a lone man and a lone woman were in the same room, there was only one thing they would or could do.


    At first, I wanted Li Mazi to stay with Mrs. Qi to watch over her husband. But since he was a bit unrestrained in that respect, I felt reluctant. Although he had experienced true love, his old habits had not changed. If he had a fling with Mrs. Qi, Ru Xue would be greatly disappointed.


    Weighing the pros and cons, I decided to bring him with me.

 Chapter 307: Smart Yin Xinyue

    Chapter 307: Smart Yin Xinyue


    I told Li Mazi to go home to notify Ru Xue and Li Meng. While he was at it, he should rest and then meet me around noon.


    I returned to the antique shop and found Yin Xinyue cooking breakfast in the kitchen.


    Seeing her improved my mood quite a bit. I moved closer and hugged her from behind.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. Dont make trouble. Wait at the table.


    Soon, she served a simple breakfast; some side dishes, two poached eggs, and two churros. I was starving after a busy night, so I readily dug in.


    While eating, I felt that something was wrong. Yin Xinyue didn''t eat anything, and she gazed at me with strange eyes. I lifted my head and looked at her.


    I was a little perplexed. Why arent you eating? Is something the matter?


    She gave me a faint smile. You went out very early this morning, and I thought that you wouldnt return on time for breakfast, so I prepared only one portion.


    I said, Oh, it was nothing. I just didnt want to disturb you.


    Then, I kept silent.


    I was considering telling her aboutst nights events, but when I thought that Id rented a room for Mrs. Qi, I started to get worried. Even if I was innocent, Yin Xinyue might not believe me and get angry.


    Since I was deep in thought, considering whether to fabricate a white lie or not, I lost my appetite. I absentmindedly finished my meal then looked at Yin Xinyue as she cleaned the table.


    Eventually, I felt that I wasplicating the situation for nothing. Telling a white lie was a stupid idea. I hadnt done anything wrong, so why did I have to hide things from Yin Xinyue? If she discovered itter, shed be hurt.


    I gathered my courage and took the bowl in her hand, ced it in the sink. Yin Xinyue, listen to me. Actually, I went out yesterday night and not this morning.


    Yin Xinyue looked surprised. Yesterday night? Why did you go out?


    I was worried about Mr. Qi, so I went to his house to take a look. I exined. Then Do you know his pretty wife. Mrs. Qi? She


    I was too embarrassed to tell her the whole story in detail, so I told Yin Xinyue that I took Mrs. Qi to an inn and rented a room for her.


    Yin Xinyue burst outughing. I never thought that youd be this honest. Arent you worried that I wouldnt trust you? After all, no one would believe that you went with her to an inn and did nothing!


    I wore a wry smile. If you dont believe me, there is nothing I can do. Dont you know how much I like you? I would never do something to hurt you.


    Yin Xinyue smiled and hugged me. Idiot, no need to say more. I already knew what happened yesterday.


    What? I broke out in a cold sweat. How did you know? Did you stalk me?


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. Im not that bored. Only stupid women would use such a method to capture a mans heart.


    Then, she told me what happened.


    Yesterday night, Li Mazi and Ru Xue couldnt sleep and went out for some fresh air. Then, they saw me and Mrs. Qi going to an inn. Ru Xue knew something was off, so she called Yin Xinyue and told her about it.


    Yin Xinyue believed that I had my reasons and knew that I wouldnt do anything that would let her down. At the same time, she was worried about me, fearing that something bad might happen. She asked Li Mazi to call me and offer help.


    Also, she asked Li Mazi not to tell me that she knew the whole story. If I didnt do anything wrong, I would exin it to herter.


    I was sweating bullets as I listened to her exnation. Luckily, I had told her the truth. Otherwise, I would have hurt Yin Xinyue this time.


    I started to exin things again as I was afraid that she would have a knot in her heart. However, Yin Xinyue just smiled at me. No need to exin more. I trust you.


    I exhaled in relief.


    Yin Xinyue asked, Anyway, what happened to Mr. Qi?


    I then told her about Mr. Qis story and the events rted to his affliction. After listening to me, she furrowed her brow. So, the ghost pestering Mr. Qi is an ancient schr. Im quite curious, and Id like to see this poet. Ill go with you tonight!


    I immediately rejected her. Although that ghost appears to be gentle, its still a soul without its former humanity. If it attacks you, I wouldnt be able to forgive myself.


    In the past, she had already experienced a lot of risks because of me, so I wouldnt let her bear any harm or pain this time.


    However, Yin Xinyue was a stubborn woman. After she kept pestering me, I could only agree to bring her with me.


    I went to my room to prepare the things we needed to use tonight, including somemon talismans, the Sirius Whip, the Yin and Yang Umbre, and the Peach Soul Flower.


    As I was ready to set out, Yin Xinyue stopped me. Are you going to fight the other party head on?


    Well, I cant simply talk him out of it, right?


    Yin Xinyue smiled. If hes a real schr, he should understand morals and manners. Although you may exorcise him by force, you may also hurt yourself in the process. I dont think it would be fair to yourself or the other party.


    I frowned, as I didnt know what Yin Xinyue meant. Did she have a better method?


    Yin Xinyue continued, Were modern people, and we cant just use force to subdue people. We can also use our morals and dignity to convince them.


    I couldnt hold myughter. You know that evil souls are all wicked, right? If you give them an inch, theyll take your whole arm. You think that you can solve this problem with words alone? No chance!


    Yin Xinyue said, Dont worry, and leave it to me. We know that his wish hasnt been fulfilled, so we just need to satisfy him to make him leave, right?


    I nodded, Thats true. However, hes a very stubborn man, and even if you beat him with a stick, he wont care. Dont think that you can just talk him with words alone.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. In that case, Ill show you my power tonight.


    I scratched my head, feeling a throbbing headache. Yin Xinyue was a nice girl, but she had one big w; she was really stubborn. When she decided something, nobody could persuade her.


    Left with no choice, I ask her, Do you already have a n?

 Chapter 308: A Group of Irresistible Beauties

    Chapter 308: A Group of Irresistible Beauties


    Yin Xinyue smiled. Well, its easy. Im going to fulfill his wish.


    I tried talking her out of it. Do you think hell just tell you about his unfulfilled wishes if you ask him? If you act rashly, you might even offend him.


    Yin Xinyue answered, I know that. If we ask him explicitly, he will surely be pissed. But if we use some workaround, things could go better, and we might be able to dig out the information we need.


    I looked at Yin Xinyues confident face and couldnt help but feel puzzled. I wondered where her confidence came from.


    Yin Xinyue continued, If he used to be a poet, I can dress as a beautiful woman from that era. Heroes cant ovee the allure of beauties. From what youve told me about this soul, it seems hes missing a femalepanion. As long as I be that femalepanion, I can pry more information out from him, right?


    I couldnt help butugh; this was simply too absurd. Her n sounded simple, but it was actually very difficult to implement. The first reason was that we were people from the modern era, so it wasnt going to be easy to be an ancient mans intimatepanion.


    As for the second reason, I didnt want Yin Xinyue to take risks. As such, I rejected her n.


    Yin Xinyue helplessly looked at me. Dont worry. I promise you that there wont be any problems. Did you forget what my job is? I have extensively studied the lives of ancient people. Just wait and see my performance tonight.


    I was puzzled and didnt know what she meant.


    Yin Xinyue smiled again. I work in the movie industry, and Im a movie producer who has worked in several dramas set in ancient times. With every movie project, I would always strive to be a woman living in ancient times, aiming to perfectly blend in with the character.


    Once Id listened to her exnation, my interest was piqued.


    What movie are you talking about? I want to take a look.


    Yin Xinyue was a little shy when she showed me a video clip. She had taken the role of a supporting character in a drama called The Heart in the Locked Pce. She didnt have much room to perform, but I had to admit that she looked gorgeous while wearing ancient clothes.


    I had a sudden urge to see her in an ancient dress.


    These costumes are kept in thepanys storage. Ill go there to borrow some, Yin Xinyue told me.


    I realized that although I had been with Yin Xinyue for quite a long time, I had not visited herpany yet. I then asked, Can I tag along?


    Yin Xinyue nodded and took me to her film and television branch.


    They specialized in managing actresses and models. As such, I saw many beautiful girls there, and almost felt as if I had entered the Kingdom of Women.


    Each of them was overwhelmingly beautiful, to the point that they would leave the onlookers mesmerized if they were walking on the streets.


    As it was thepanys off-season, they just needed to stop by thepany to check-in. Since they didnt need to go out for shooting movies or video advertisements, they mainly stayed in their private lounges, surfing the inte or simply chatting in the office.


    Looking at those porcin-like legs moving back and forth, my heart started racing. This wasnt a ce where men could stay. I started to feel a little dizzy because of those legs.


    Many beautifuldies had approached Yin Xinyue to greet her and ask her who I was. I looked full of mystery to them since they didnt know my identity.


    Before reaching thepany, Yin Xinyue had especially advised me that I had to act cool in front of the people in herpany. She didnt want my profound, aloof image of a master to be affected.


    I couldnt help butugh since I was no real master. One year prior, I was still a loser.


    However, to keep Yin Xinyues face and reputation, I still acted cool. When people greeted me, I just wore a faint smile and replied to their hellos with a gentle nod.


    Many models kept asking me questions about paranormal activities in their houses, how to increase their luck, or how to be famous. Somedies even discreetly gave me their business cards, asking me to call themter at night.


    I almost lost my mind. That ce was heaven for scumbags but hell for upright men!


    Yin Xinyue seemed to really enjoy watching me in that embarrassing situation. She didnt help me get rid of the other girls, which made me angry.


    Getting to Yin Xinyues lounge was a task in itself. I thought that I had finally found a safe shelter, but to my surprise, she shared the ce with four other stunningdies. At this moment, they were either lying or sitting on the sofa in the middle of the room. All of them wore short skirts and tight blouses. There was a youngdy that was only wearing a bikini set, as if it were really too hot for her to wear more decent clothes. She casually walked back and forth in the room.


    Once they saw me, their eyes brightened, and they swarmed toward me like a rising tide. They pelted me with questions about my supernatural powers.


    I felt itchy as the beautiful women surrounded me. Not knowing what to do, I shot Yin Xinyue a nce, asking for help. At the same time, I wondered if she had bragged about me with her friends. Otherwise, why would they ask about my supernatural powers?


    Yin Xinyue sniggered and didnt look like she was going to help me. She left to meet her CEO as she had to ask for leave. As such, I was left in the room together with four mischievous and overly inquisitivedies.


    I felt very awkward as thedies were eyeing me as if I was some deity. I started stuttering and blushed. I wasnt good atmunicating with women.


    Among the four youngdies, the short-haired one left the deepest impression on me. She had exquisite facial features and creamy, wless skin. Her eyes were watery and bright. She didnt speak much and studied me with an inquisitive look on her face.


    Standing next to her was a red-haired girl, who was the most sensual one. She joked, Dan Dan admires you a lot. Look at the way shes looking at you, full of admiration. You cant neglect herter, all right?


    Dan Dan blushed immediately; she stormed forward and started arguing with the red-haireddy.


    The other two didnt look that outstanding, but there was nothing toin about their bodies. They had amazing chests and rear ends. Their S-shaped bodies formed a sharp contrast with their long legs. I was a man that had only experienced love once, so it was hard for me to resist their charm.


    I couldnt bear it anymore. I came up with an excuse and left to go to the restroom.


    However, once I locked myself in one of the booths, I realized that it was a female-only lounge, so of course it only had restrooms for women.


    My face became even redder. My only thought was to get out there as soon as possible.


    While I was in such an awkward situation, the door to the lobby was pushed open, and I heard Yin Xinyues voice. Why are you all standing in front of the toilet?


    I almost choked on my own saliva. <em>They are all standing in front of the toilet?! This is too embarrassing!</em>


    The red-haired girl said, Yin Xinyue, you really need to teach your man some manners. I can tell hes an evil mind but doesnt have the courage to follow through. He didnt dare to touch us, so he escaped into the restroom to do the deed


    I couldnt bear it anymore. I pushed the door open and walked out. D-Dont talk nonsense! I wasnt thinking any of that.


    Yin Xinyue smiled at me. Theyve made you suffer quite a bit, eh? Come, lets leave.


    Wait! The red-haired girl stopped Yin Xinyue. Yin Xinyue, arent we best friends? You two are going out to have some fun, right? Carry us along! Its really boring here.


    Yin Xinyue became all mysterious. Were not going to have fun. Were going to catch a ghost.


    Catch a ghost?! The four youngdies gasped. They looked really stirred up and excited, as if they had just found the winning ticket of a million renminbi lottery.


    Sister! Tell us more about it, dont leave us in the dark! The girls began to mor and implore noisily. What kind of ghost are you going to capture? It would be toome for a person to never see a ghost!


    I couldnt help butugh. What kind of logic was that?


    Things were getting more and moreplicated.


    I could tell from their faces that they really wanted to join in the fun. If they discovered that we were going to catch a ghost for real, they would definitely pester us to tag along.


    I pulled Yin Xinyues arm and prepared to leave, but the red-haired youngdy clutched my arm and kept rubbing it against her chest. Have mercy, brother. Please, grant this wish of ours.


    I was at a loss and didn''t know how to reject them. I looked at Yin Xinyue, begging her for help.


    Yin Xinyue smiled, then turned to the girls. All right. Since you poor things have never seen a ghost before, Ill tell you a few things.


    She then told them what happenedst night, with some extra details. She had even made herself the main character of the story. In her retelling, she was a seasoned expert who wasnt scared of anything. Eventually, she was able to pacify the departed soul and would deal with it tonight.


    Her thrilling ghost story immediately captured their hearts. The girls were all in awe, and when Xinyue retold the scary details, they shrieked and trembled. I felt both amused and baffled as I saw their reactions.


    I didnt expect that Yin Xinyue, who was usually gentle and quiet, would boast like this in front of her peers.


    However, I couldnt expose her now that she was acting cool. I could only cooperate with her by nodding my head continuously. I even told them that she was my apprentice and that she was extremely skilled. She was almost an expert herself.


    The girls were quite convinced, and they admired Yin Xinyue even more.


    However, a new problem popped up. Now, they all wanted to go and see the ghost.


    I felt my head explode the moment they presented the request. I wasnt even sure if I could keep Yin Xinyue safe. Now, I would have more burdens added.


    As such, I directly rejected their request.


    My rejection made the four girls unhappy. They began to pester me to let them go with us. They wouldnt even allow me to leave the lounge.


    Yin Xinyue also had a headache at this time.


    I angrily looked at her. <em>See? This is what happens when you boast too much!</em>


    Eventually, I couldnt bear it anymore and had topromise. All right, all right. You cane with us. However, you have to promise me that youll follow my orders at all times. Otherwise, I cant guarantee your safety.


    After hearing my words, the girls were overjoyed. They nodded nonstop and asked me if they needed to prepare something.


    I told them to go and choose some ancient clothes and essories; they had to wear them in the evening. The girls were quite happy as they rushed to the storage room to borrow the costumes.


    Yin Xinyue was a little embarrassed when she looked at me. Im sorry. I didnt expect that they would be this bold and insist on going with us.


    I shook my head. It was toote to regret things now. Since we had agreed, we had to take them with us.

 Chapter 309: Rootless Water and Human Bone Powder

    Chapter 309: Rootless Water and Human Bone Powder


    Soon, the girls returned to the lounge, each carrying a bag, and joined us in the final preparations. Then, I drove them away.


    After having a simple dinner, I went straight to Li Mazis house. Li Mazi was dumbstruck when he saw me with a bunch of beauties in tow. Are you going to open a nightclub? Why would you recruit so many little sisters from some KTV?


    I threw Li Mazi a nce. Stop spouting nonsense. They are professional actresses. Tonight, were going to show Mr. Qi a good performance.


    Li Mazi smiled. Even if I receive nothing for this mission, it would be well worth it. His words made the youngdies giggle.


    Since my car was already packed, I asked Li Mazi to drive his own car.


    Li Mazi waved his hands, resolutely rejecting my proposal. Why waste gasoline? We should protect the environment. I have no problem squeezing into your car!


    Then, he opened the door and tried to slip into the car. I angrily kicked him out and said, Do you have no shame? Even if you want to reap some benefits, you shouldnt be that explicit.


    Li Mazi blushed and gave me an awkward smile. He then silently grabbed his car and followed me.


    Mrs. Qi was cleaning the living room when we arrived at her house. She was bewildered at the sight of so many beauties and looked at me in puzzlement.


    I could only exin the situation. Tonight, we will need the cooperation of these beautifuldies. Thats how we will save Mr. Qi.


    Although Mrs. Qi was wearing a questioning face, she still nodded.


    Then, she sent me a text message. What kind of man are you? You showed no interest in me the other day, so I thought that you were a righteous man. However, it seemed you simply didnt like me. You could have just told me, you know?


    Mrs. Qi thought that I was showing off my charm by bringing all those beauties with me.


    I felt awkward and didn''t know how to exin the situation. I sent her a short text message to brief her about the situation, but Mrs. Qis discontent expression clearly showed that she didnt believe me.


    It seemed I couldnte clean even if I jumped into the Yellow River. I decided to move on, as it was a pointless discussion. If I continued toe up with exnations, she would think that I was trying to cover things up.


    Maam, wheres Old Qi? I asked.


    Mrs. Qi nced toward a room. Hes sleeping in that room. He hasnt woken up sincest night.


    I went to the room to check on Mr. Qi, who was sleeping like a dead pig. His body was curled into a ball, while his breath was a little quicker than usual. The dark circles underneath his eyes were quite terrifying. It was a clear symptom of kidney failure.


    This departed soul had greatly damaged Mr. Qis body.


    After checking on him, I prepared to leave the room and close the door. However, when I turned around, I happened to see something on Mr. Qis neck. My heart immediately started racing.


    There were some small, dark gray dots on his neck. I trembled in fright when I saw them clearly. Those small dots were indicators of livor mortis!


    Since livor mortis had manifested on his body, I was afraid his death was drawing near. If we didnt do anything, Mr. Qi would not survive to see another day.


    Mrs. Qi was really an awful wife, and it didnt seem like she cared if her husband lived or died.


    I asked Li Mazi to enter the bedroom immediately.


    To my surprise, Li Mazi wasnt the first one entering the room. The girls got in first and asked me, Did you find anything strange?


    I didnt know if I should cry orugh. Nothing, its just some livor mortis.


    What? How could a living person have livor mortis?


    I used to read about livor mortis in detective novels, but I had never seen the real thing before. Finally, I got a chance today. Quick, show me whats going on here!


    The girls squeezed into the room and circled Mr. Qi, not minding the bad odor exuding from his body. They watched and pointed their fingers.


    I was eventually nudged out of the room. I looked at Li Mazi, and we both felt helpless.


    Left with no choice, I cleared my throat and said, Girls, you better move away. Livor mortis is highly infectious. You could also get it if youre careless.


    Once they heard me, the girls finally recognized the danger. They gasped and retreated.


    By then, Mrs. Qi had also seen the livor mortis on her husbands body. She was really scared. Mr. Zhang, whats going on?


    I took a deep breath. This is proof that his Yin energy is overwhelming his Yang energy. If we dont fix this soon, the consequences will be severe.


    Mrs. Qi was frightened. Please, save him! If he dies, Ill be a widow for the rest of my life!


    Li Mazi chuckled.


    Why are youughing? asked Mrs. Qi.


    I guess Mr. Qi hasnt written a will yet, and youre not legally married. Did I hit the mark? Li Mazi snapped back.


    It seemed Mrs. Qi didnt want Old Qi to die just yet because he hadnt written a will. And, since they werent officially husband and wife, she wouldnt get a dime if he died.


    Mrs. Qi was incensed. She began to quarrel with Li Mazi, but he just sniggered and remained silent. He disdained this kind of woman the most, who was willing to sell her body for wealth.


    I had to jump in. You two, stop fighting. If we dy any further, Mr. Qi will really die.


    Mrs. Qi became worried. Please, save him.


    I pondered for a while and remembered a method Senior Shu had taught me. It was a technique to create a dough of rootless water and human bone powder that could be smeared on the victims neck. It was like fighting poison with poison, and it could somewhat absorb the livor mortis.


    However, where was I supposed to get human bone powder?


    Bone powder and bone ashes were different. Bone ashes would form after a deceased persons remains were burned at really high temperaturesat least several thousand degrees. Not a bit of evil energy would be left, and it would certainlyck any poisonous elements. We couldnt use it to counter the other poison.


    And, human bone powder was made of naturally dposed human remains that had been ground into powder. In most cases, the remains belonged to people who had died a tragic death and were filled with resentful energy. When their bones were ground, the resentful energy would seep into the powder. That was the poison I needed!


    As we were in an urgent situation and I couldnt create the bone powder on the spot, I had to ask Mrs. Qi. Maam, do you know if theres anybody who could provide us with human bone powder?


    Mrs. Qi shook her head. Why would anyone have that thing? Still, if it can save Old Qi, you have to get it, no matter the cost!


    I pondered for a while, then replied, Its not about money. Anyway, get me some sea salt, bone ashes, and a bottle of white rice wine. This mixture could somewhat work.


    Mrs. Qi was still worried. Could work? Please be serious.


    I exined to her, Its not like bone ashes dont have any bit of resentful energy... Its just that its too trivial to be noticed. The mixture of salt and rice wine may extract enough resentful energy out of the ashes.


    Mrs. Qi was finally convinced. She rushed away to prepare the items. Shortly after, she returned with an urn.


    I felt a little awkward. Where did you get this urn, maam?


    I bought it from a friend. That fellow used to be a tomb raider, but as business isnt flourishing these days and the government has be stricter, he hasnt been able to find a lot of ancient tombs. He eventually resorted to stealing urns. This sort of urns can be washed and re-sold for one or two thousand renminbi.


    I cursed that thief in my head for throwing his conscience to the gutter. Then, I took out the ashes and ced them in a stainless steel bottle. After carefully mixing all the ingredients, I smeared the dough on Mr. Qis neck.


    Mr. Qi didnt even wiggle or react in the slightest. He seemed to bepletely numbed. After a while, he woke up and shot a nce at me, closing his eyes right after.


    I was surprised<em>. That ghost is still possessing Mr. Qis body? Why hasn''t he left yet? Its broad daylight...</em>


    I took a deep breath and observed the bedroom.


    The bedroom was ill-lit, and the curtains were down. The only source of light was the open door. However, the girls were blocking the passage at the moment. As things stood, it wasnt a hard task for that thing to possess Mr. Qis body.


    I shot the girls a nce, motioning them to clear the doorway, and I asked Mrs. Qi to pull the curtains open. We first had to use the light to expel the ghost. Otherwise, Mr. Qis body would only get worse.


    The people near the door moved away. When sunlight filled the room, Mr. Qis body shivered. He then exhaled a breath of foul air, and color returned to his face.


    I heaved a sigh of relief, seeing that it was working. The girls were startled and asked me in unison, How did you do that?


    This room was closed, which prevented Yang energy from entering. As the room was already filled with Yin energy, it was hard to detect the one generated by the departed soul. This ce is no different from a coffin. If a possessed person is ced in such an environment, they would die for sure.


    Things were finally clear, and Mrs. Qis face turned pale. Im so lucky that I got you toe here. Otherwise, Old Qi would have died already!


    The girls admired me even more. They looked at me as if I were their new idol.

 Chapter 310: A Yin Meal

    Chapter 310: A Yin Meal


    After observing for a full hour and confirming that Mr. Qi was all right, I heaved a sigh of relief. It was almost lunch time, so Mrs. Qi ordered some food for everyone.


    While eating, the red-haired girl asked me, Doesnt Mr. Qi need to eat something too?


    Thanks to her reminder, I realized I hadnt paid attention to Old Qis meals. I turned to Mrs. Qi and asked, Has your husband eaten anything?


    Mrs. Qi shook her head. No, he hasnt. Hes been unconscious ever since I came home. Let alone eating, he hasnt even taken a sip of water.


    I couldnt help butugh. Why didn''t you tell me this earlier? Its okay for a man to go without eating for a day, but its not okay if he doesnt drink any water. Arent you worried that he might die of dehydration?


    Mrs. Qi patted her head. My bad. Why didnt I think about it earlier? Im going to give him food and water.


    It wont work, I said. Hes unconscious now, and even if you wake him up, he wont have the mood to eat.


    Mrs. Qi was flustered. What should I do then?


    It seems that the departed soul doesnt want Mr. Qi to eat. In that case, well prevent the soul from eating as well. Prepare a bowl of congee and smoke it with three joss sticks. Ill handle the rest.


    Mrs. Qi nodded and rushed to prepare the ingredients.


    I quickly finished my lunch and buried the ink b in the sea salt. Departed souls also needed energy to work, and the way they collected energy was different from human beings. People collected energy through food, while departed souls fed off Yin energy.


    When a soul attached itself to an otherworldly item to survive, it would no longer be able to gather Yin energy on its own; it could only do so through the otherworldly item.


    Since I had buried the otherworldly item in the salt, I had cut off the souls source of Yin energy. Without meals, the soul would be hungry.


    When that happened, I would use food rich of Yin energy to lure it out. The soul would have to eat the food I had prepared if it wanted to collect Yin energy. It was also the way we could help Mr. Qi get some nourishment.


    Soon, I had prepared everything and kept the ink b buried in sea salt.


    Then, I heard the girls screaming. Oh my God, he woke up! Brother Zhang,e and see!


    I hurried back to the bedroom, and Mr. Qi was now sitting up straight in his bed. His red eyes were rolled to the back of his head, and half of his tongue was sticking out. He looked quite frightening as he sweated and red at me in anger; he was no different from someone who was about to choke to death.


    I gasped and suddenly recalled something. The otherworldly item wasnt just the spirits source of energy, it was also what helped it survive. It was simr to oxygen to humans.


    When I cut off his source of Yin energy, I also cut off his source of oxygen. It would be strange if he wasnt enraged.


    My heart skipped a beat when I saw Mr. Qi get up and rush toward me with the intent to strangle me. I ran and screamed, All of you, get out of the room! Mrs. Qi, is the congee ready?


    Yes! Mrs. Qi answered.


    All right, bring it in! I screamed.


    Soon, Mrs. Qi brought a bowl of congee into the room. There were some wisps of smoke hovering over the bowl. I knew it was due to the incense used to smoke it.


    Mrs. Qi gasped in fright as she saw her husband trying to strangle me. I threw her a quick nce. Put the bowl down and get out!


    Mrs. Qi ced the bowl down and strode out of the room.


    Mr. Qi noticed the strong Yin energy as soon he caught sight of the bowl. He let me off and rushed to the bowl, finishing it a single breath. I heaved a sigh of relief. Everything should be fine for now.


    Mr. Qi ate the bowl of congee and turned to me, shooting me an angry look.


    I quickly ran to take the ink b out of the sea salt. As soon as the ink b was exposed in the air, the man was able to resume his intake of Yin energy and stopped his mad chase after me. In the end, it was still broad daylight, and it wasnt convenient for him to take action.


    I exhaled in relief and called the girls to help me take Mr. Qi back to bed.


    The youngdies were excited after the short but terrifying encounter. They encircled me and asked, Did that ghost get angry? Did he go on a rampage because of that?


    What are you talking about? Its pretty obvious that Mr. Qi was possessed.


    The girls were even more excited once they heard that Mr. Qi had been possessed by a ghost. Wow, thats awesome! This is much more exciting than visiting the haunted house attraction!


    I was speechless.


    After dinner, I asked them to prepare, and all the girls changed into the ancient costumes they had borrowed.


    However, the clothes they had chosen were really flimsy, and they put great emphasis on their bodies. Their beautiful skin was visible through the silk gauze.


    These girls were already beautiful and had stunning figures. Wearing ancient costumes made them look even more magnificent. Li Mazi and I felt were mesmerized, and even Mrs. Qi clicked her tongue in admiration.


    Seeing beauties in real life waspletely different than seeing them on TV.


    I didnt expect that they had even prepared a costume for me. It looked like a long schrly robe.


    Of course, I didnt put it on as I understood what it meant. If I wore it, I would have to participate in the y, and they would tease me to death.


    The girls were very lively. Li Mazi and I found some wine and shared it while sitting by the window and watching them.


    Even a charming woman like Mrs. Qi felt inferior in front of this group of beauties; she kept on sighing.


    Why are you sighing?


    Mrs. Qi shook her head with a wry smile. If I hadnt married Old Qi, I would have been like them now, enjoying my precious youth! Sigh, if the heavens gave me another chance, I would never choose Old Qi.


    I smiled andforted Mrs. Qi. Its not as easy as it seems. They have to fight for their livelihood every day, and its not guaranteed that theyll get to star in a movie. They have to constantly face the unwritten rules in the film industry, and if theyre careless, they might even lose their job. In short, they have their difficulties as well.


    Mrs. Qi sighed again. I wondered if she even listened to what I had just said.


    Thedies were having fun in the courtyard under the pale moonlight. On this hazy night, they looked even prettier. Their gait was gentle, and theirughter beautiful. It was a wholesome scene that one didnt feel like disturbing.


    I suddenly remembered a verse from an ancient poem.


    <em>The silver candle illuminates the chilly panel, Her silk fan delicately swats away the fireflies. As the sky takes on the color of night, it bes as cold as water, She sits and gazes at the stars of the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid.</em>


    The scene in front of us was really simr to this ancient poem, right?


    While we were silently enjoying the beautiful y, some noises arose from Mr. Qis bedroom. I immediately turned around to check and saw that Mr. Qi was up.


    His eyes had sunk deep into his sockets, his hair disheveled. He tiptoed, walking out of the room and heading directly to the bathroom.


    The girls who were ying in the yard noticed Mr. Qi. They quieted down as they just watched Mr. Qis bizarre actions.


    Mr. Qi acted as if he didnt see us. He went to the bathroom and began to wash himself without taking off his clothes, just like he did the day before.


    My eyes happened to look at the ancient long robe the girls had prepared for me. Something shed in my head. I picked it up and threw it over to the bathroom.


    Who knew, perhaps that departed soul liked to wear ancient clothes?<em></em>


    Sure enough, Mr. Qi looked excited when he saw the robe. He hurried to pick it up and gently stroke it. Then, he put the robe on, carefully checking himself in front of the mirror. In the end, he smiled happily.


    I chuckled quietly, thinking that this fellow was really narcissistic.


    I called thedies and asked them to stand close to me. I hoped that one of them could stir the souls heart and make him talk about his old stories.


    All the girls had creamy skin and exquisite appearances. If they had lived in ancient times, they would have been more charming than royal princesses!


    However, Mr. Qi just shot them a nce and went back to his room. He didnt even give them a second look as he continued with his drawings.


    Just like the previous day, Mr. Qi pounded his chest and spurted out some heart blood. Tonight, the blood looked a little lighter. I guessed it was because of Mr. Qis feeble body.


    Then, he ground the ink and made some poems and drew more pictures. After his work was done, he silently enjoyed the pictures. But then, he felt unsatisfied about the girl and tore the picture, starting the drawing anew.


    The girls started to lose their interest. Theyined to me, Brother Zhang, this is not scary at all.


    Shes right, Brother Zhang. You should one of your spell already and defeat the ghost! Show us something cool.


    What kind ofzy ghost is that? Hes bringing shame to all ghosts!


    I was speechless. <em>Do</em><em>you guys really think that its like the stuff youve seen on TV, where they throw some talismans or wield a shining sword to expel the evil spirit?!</em>


    I sighed with emotion. These girls were too young and naive.


    As I didnt take action, they pressed forward. Dont tell us that you dont know how to subdue that ghost?


    I carefully exined my n. I wanted one of them to strike a conversation with the ghost so that we could understand his story.


    The red-haired girl said, You should have told us earlier! You just need us to seduce that ghost, right? Thats simple!


    I looked at her in puzzlement. Arent you afraid of him?


    What there is to be afraid? Isnt that ghost a male? As long as hes male, he cant escape my temptation.


    Then, the red-haired girl started to walk toward Mr. Qi.


    Her actions startled me. Sure enough, a newborn calf did not fear tigers!


    Although Mr. Qi appeared to be harmless now, I was sure he would get angry if the red-haired girl harassed him. At that time, things wouldn''t end well for her.


    I hurried to stop her, warning her not to approach him carelessly.


    The red-haired girl was displeased. How can I seduce him if I cant get close to him?

 Chapter 311: The Most Sentimental Lover in the World

    Chapter 311: The Most Sentimental Lover in the World


    You guys cant proactively go near him. We dont want to provoke him. We just want him to notice you. Then, if he likes some of you, he might talk to you and tell you his story.


    The red-haired girl said helplessly, What do we do then? If you want me to strip and tempt him, youll have to pay me.


    Her words startled me, and I hurried to say, You girls should go by the window. Sing or y some games. Just try to be lively and eye-catching. We need to create some noise.


    Yin Xinyue wore a wry smile. Its really hard to please this ghost. Ladies, listen to him.


    Then, Yin Xinyue led the group out of the house. The otherdiesined but still followed behind her.


    At first, the girls yed the game, The Eagle Catches the Chickens. When they got tired, they began to sing. However, Mr. Qi looked indifferent the entire time and didnt bat an eye. In the end, he was annoyed and snapped.


    He stormed towards the window and scolded the girls. Your singing is terrible! You are vixens who will harm this country!


    I started to wonder if the soul possessing Mr. Qi was gay.<em></em>These girls could charm any man, but this soul was unmoved and even annoyed by their presence.


    I was worried that the girls would anger him further. As such, I had to ask them to stop.


    The red-haired girl was mad. Mr. Zhang, whats wrong with that guy? Is he gay or something? Hes too hateful. I dont want to do this anymore!


    Then, the red-haired girl wanted to change back into her normal clothes.


    The other girls alsoined and wanted to give up. We are tired. What kind of ghost is that? Its not fun at all.


    I felt helpless. If this approach didnt work, wed have to y hard.


    Li Mazi said, Why dont you let me give it a try?


    I looked at Li Mazi in puzzlement. What do you want to do?


    Li Mazi said, What if he really liked men? Let me try. Perhaps I can convince him.


    I burst outughing until my stomach ached. How did Li Mazie up with such a stupid idea?


    I dont think he likes men. Dont you see that he keeps on drawing a woman? I guess hes just a sentimental lover who is too faithful to the woman in his drawings. He has no interest in other women.


    As soon as I said that, Mr. Qi lifted the picture he had just drawn. It was again a bathing beauty. He seemed to be satisfied with this drawing.


    He wore a faint smile and said, Ordinary water cant impress me as I''ve seen the vast sea;having seen the majestic Mount Wu, ordinary clouds no longer please me.


    The girls were bewildered. What does he mean by that?


    Yin Xinyue said, What else could he mean? He means that were uglier than the girl in his drawings. As hes seen that woman, no other woman can tempt him.


    Hes crazy! fumed the red-haired girl.


    Yin Xinyue was also irritated. Hmph, hes still a man in the end. Let me show him my power.


    Then, she walked towards Mr. Qi.


    I reached out my hand to stop her, but she had already run off.


    Her sudden action scared the heck out of me. Instinctively, I stormed forward in an attempt to protect Yin Xinyue. In the worst-case scenario, we could just fight the ghost directly.


    However, Li Mazi stopped me. You should know Yin Xinyue by now. She wouldnt act if she didnt have a n. Just wait and see. Actually, Im curious to see what she wants to do.


    But I was still worried. How could I just stand and watch as she put herself in danger? Li Mazi hooked his arm to mine and pulled me back. I couldnt get rid of him, so I could only worriedly watch Yin Xinyue.


    Good evening, sir. Could you please show me your new drawing? When Yin Xinyue faced the ghost, she didnt sound scared. Her voice was gentle, just as if she was chatting with a friend.


    Mr. Qi shot her a disdainful nce. Youre just an entertainer. How could you understand painting and calligraphy?


    That might not be the case! Yin Xinyue sounded angry when the man looked down on her skills. She snatched the drawing to look at it.


    Hmph! Mr. Qi was enraged and pped the table. Put it down. Dont stain my drawing!


    Then, he reached out his hand to snatch the drawing back.


    I was scared and started sweating. <em>What is she doing? Does she not want to live anymore?!</em>


    I pushed Li Mazis arm aside and stormed forward.


    Its a good painting, with smooth curves. It looks realistic, but her face shows no expression. What a shame. Yin Xinyue sighed.


    Mr. Qi was bewildered and looked at Yin Xinyue. You know how to paint?


    A little bit. Yin Xinyue smiled then picked up the weasel fur brush. She spread a sheet of paper on the table and started to draw.


    Yin Xinyue seemed to have mastered Chinese drawing techniques. Her brush moved like a snake that left streaks on the Xuan paper. Although it looked like a mess, when everything was connected, the result was wonderful.


    Soon after, an ancient beauty appeared on her paper.


    Atst, she carefully painted the girls eyes. Immediately, the spiritless woman looked as if she hade to life. Her eyes were now full of emotions. She looked sad and lonely


    I gawked in shock. I never knew that Yin Xinyue had such talents. I had underestimated her.


    Mr. Qi was also stunned as he gazed at the beauty in the drawing. He carefully lifted the drawing and admired it.


    After a while, he appraised it and smacked his tongue. I cannot believe theres a talented woman like you in this world. Its really rare.


    Yin Xinyue wore a faint smile but refused to express her opinion.


    Mr. Qi was lost in the drawing. His finger gently caressed the womans face. He looked very sentimental.


    Then, he brought the drawing to his chest and hugged it, starting to cry. Unfortunately, Im dead already. I hate the heavens for not allowing us to be together!


    I gently exhaled. Mr. Qi was finally willing to open up his heart and talk.


    I winked at Yin Xinyue. Feeling content, she gestured an OK at me. Then, she swayed her head to one side and said to Mr. Qi, Sir, would you tell me the sorrow youve been bearing for so long?


    Mr. Qi looked up at Yin Xinyue. All right. Its rare to meet such a talented girl like you.


    Then, Yin Xinyue shut the door of the study room.


    I gawked and raised my brows, feeling jealous.


    I wanted to go there and have a group chat, but Li Mazi stopped me. Cant you see whats happening? Hes a righteous man. He wont do anything to Yin Xinyue. Dont worry.


    Although I knew that, I still felt a little jealous as if I was being cheated on.


    At the same time, I knew it wasnt a bright decision to storm in there. Begrudgingly, I had to wait outside.


    I had waited nervously at the door for the whole night, but Yin Xinyue hadnte out yet. If Yin Xinyue hadnt sent me text messages from time to time to show that she was safe, I would have kicked the door open already.


    Li Mazi and the others couldnt stand feeling bored. They all found a ce to rest or sleep.


    I was the only one who waited like that until the break of dawn. Then, I heard something fall from the room, just as if someone had tripped. My nerves went tense, and I quickly got up.


    Before I could reach the door, it was pushed open from inside. Yin Xinyue walked out. She had dark circles under her eyes, but she looked excited and lively. She smiled at me. Ive suddenly realized that youre somewhat shallow, vulgar, and ignorant


    I couldnt help but smile. I poked my head into the room and asked, Wheres Mr. Qi?


    Hes sleeping, Yin Xinyue answered. Hes sleeping under the table.


    I heaved a sigh of relief then grabbed Yin Xinyues hand. I checked her from head to toe. Xinyue, did he hurt you?


    Dont worry, said Yin Xinyue. Hes a real gentleman. He wouldnt do that.


    Did you get to know his story?


    Yin Xinyues bright expression dimmed. Yeah, I did. Hes the most sentimental lover in this world! Hes been waiting for the love of his life for thousands of years

 Chapter 312: Immortal Poet Li Bai

    Chapter 312: Immortal Poet Li Bai


    Li Mazi and the others had also woken up by now. They began to tease me. Oh, do you know that our Little Brother Zhang was jealous for the whole night? I think he finished all the vinegar [1] in Wuhan in one night.


    Yin Xinyue smiled at me strangely. You guys know nothing. We were just making things even. Isnt that right, dear?


    Then, she jealousy nced at Mrs. Qi, who blushed and lowered her head.


    I couldnt help butugh. All right, all right. Now tell us about the soul that has been pestering Mr. Qi. Who was it when alive?


    Yin Xinyue sat down and sighed. Even if I tell you, Im afraid you wont believe me. That soul Actually, hes Li Bai.


    Li Bai Everybody present was shocked by the name.


    Li Bai was really famous. I was afraid there was no one in China that didnt know his name. Li Bai had spent his whole lifeposing poems, drinking, and traveling. He had left touching poems wherever he visited. He wasnt only the number one poet in the Tang dynasty, but the number one poet from ancient to modern days, to the point that everybody referred to him as the Immortal Poet.


    The red-haired girl seemed not to buy it. Xinyue, are you kidding? Li Bai was a great poet. Why would he linger in this world for several thousand years and not reincarnate?


    Yin Xinyue pouted her lips. I dont know. Youll have to ask our expert.


    Then, people shifted their looks to me.


    I smiled again. Xinyue, are you sure hes the real Li Bai?


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Of course, why would I deceive you? That guys Li Bai. I can tell from the Tang dynasty poems he has written. Oh right, Im sure you cant guess who is the beauty in his drawings.


    I was interested. Yeah, who is she?


    The woman that Li Bai could never forget was certainly someone noble. Perhaps she was a deity from the heavens.


    Yin Xinyue said, Im a little skeptical as well, but that woman seems to be Yang Guifei.


    We exchanged looks, and we saw the doubt in each others eyes. None of us believed Yin Xinyue.


    Yin Xinyue was a little annoyed. What, you don''t believe me?


    Li Mazi said, How could Yang Guifei have any rtionship with Li Bai? One was the wanton and unrestrained Immortal Poet, while the other was the emperors favorite concubine. They had nothing inmon. Why would Li Bai like Yang Guifei?


    Yin Xinyue told us the story of Li Bai and Yang Guifei.


    Back then, Yang Guifeis beauty could cause nations to fall. As such, Emperor Xuanzong decided to make her his concubine. It was also around that time that he summoned Li Bai.


    Li Bai was really famous, and even the emperor liked his poems.


    Li Bai ended up created some poems where he praised Emperor Xuanzong for being the most outstanding emperor in history, and the emperor obviously very pleased. He gave Li Bai a post at Hanlin Academy, which served to provide schrly expertise and poetry for the emperor.


    The next day, Emperor Xuanzong brought Yang Guifei to a smallke near the pce to enjoy the flowers. After seeing the blooming flowers, they asked theposer, Li Guinian, to sing a cheerful song.


    However, Emperor Xuanzong stopped Li Guinian after hearing just two words of an old song. Ive brought my beauty here to enjoy the flowers. Why would I want to listen to an old song of yours? Call Li Bai here, and tell him to write me a new song.


    Li Guinian sweated in fright. He went and found Li Bai.


    Unfortunately, at the time, Li Bai was drinking with his friends at an inn. He was so drunk that he was lying on the table.


    Li Guinians face paled. How could he write a song in this state? If he couldnt write anything new, both of their heads would be removed.


    Feeling helpless, Li Guinian had to pull a drunk and almost-cked-out Li Bai to theke near the pce.


    Emperor Xuanzong was already impatient. After seeing the drunk Li Bai, his face turned purple in rage. He ordered his guard to wake up Li Bai.


    Li Bai, can you create some new poems? asked the emperor.


    Li Bai agreed and quickly created a poem.


    <em>Clouds, one thinks of her clothes; flowers, one thinks of her countenance;</em>


    <em>the spring wind sweeps dew from her balustrade, splendid and dense.</em>


    <em>If not seen at the peak of the Jade Mountain,</em>


    <em>then she will be encountered under the moon on the gemstone terrace.</em>


    Li Bais drunk appearance was aloof and somewhat stylish. At that time, many maids and servants started to admire him. Even Yang Guifeis eyes gleamed at him.


    One was the most beautiful woman of the Tang dynasty, while the other was the Tang dynastys best poet. Since they hade together, it was hard to not have any sparks.


    Tang Xuanzong was excited and asked Li Bai to write more. However, Li Bai rejected him and excused himself. Im too tired. I dont even have the strength to grind the ink! Moreover, when I write poems, I have a bad habit of taking my shoes off. Otherwise, I wont be in the mood.


    Emperor Xuanzongughed. Thats okay. As long as you can write a poem, just do whatever you want.


    Li Bai nodded and asked Yang Guozhong to grind more ink for him and asked Gao Lishi to take his shoes off.


    Yang Guozhong was Yang Guifeis brother, and Gao Lishi was Emperor Xuanzongs favorite eunuch. Most of the important officials and nobles had to bow to them when they saw them, but a little schr like Li Bai instructed them to make him some ink and take his shoes off for him!


    Although Yang Guozhong and Gao Lishi gritted their teeth and served Li Bai, they hated his guts from the bottom of their hearts. They wished to give him a lesson someday.


    Since Li Bai feltfortable and was in high spirits, he wrote ten poems at once. Each of them was beautiful and remained famous in the capital for quite a long time. Emperor Xuanzong was also surprised. It was as if he was watching a deity. How could Li Bai, in his intoxicated state, write such perfect poems? If he wasnt a deity, what else could he be?


    Yang Guifei started to admire Li Bai more when she realized that all of his poems praised her beauty. She knew that Li Bai was interested in her.


    Good wine and a beautifulpanion while watching the bright moon... A man could not ask for more.


    However, since his lover was in the emperors embrace, Li Bai felt distressed.


    Then, their ambiguous rtionship began


    They were in love but not predestined to be together. It was really hard for them to meet, too.


    However, Yang Guifei often encouraged Emperor Xuanzong to bring her to see Li Bai. Every time, Li Bai created more poems to praise Yang Guifeis beauty.


    Yang Guifei would also discreetly send Li Bai some gifts. For instance, she sent a handkerchief that she had embroidered herself. She also sent an ink b. She would quietly make more ink for Li Bai and secretly read his poems.


    Yang Guifei often gave Li Baipliments before Emperor Xuanzong. To please the beauty, Emperor Xuanzong also started to appreciate Li Bai more.


    However, Yang Guozhong and Gao Lishi still hated Li Bai as they had been forced to make ink for him and take his shoes off that day. They had lost too much face, and they tried everything they could to worsen the rtionship between Emperor Xuanzong and Li Bai.


    Due to the two treacherous officials, Li Bai slowly lost his favor. Emperor Xuanzong rarely summoned him, and to avoid alerting the emperor, Yang Guifei didnt dare to see Li Bai anymore.


    Li Bai was an outstanding and talented man, while Yang Guifei was a stunning, peerless beauty. Both of them had to endure the lovesickness.


    In the end, Li Bai couldnt endure life in the pce anymore. He was a man with wishes and desires, and now he was just an entertainer for the emperor. He decided to resign and begin his life in seclusion.


    Although Li Bai had resigned and left the pce, his love for Yang Guifei never ended.


    Not long after that, the An-Shi Rebellion erupted. Under the pressure of his officials, Emperor Xuanzong sentenced Yang Guifei to death at Mawei Pass.


    After Yang Guifeis death, Li Bai was no longer the same aloof and unrestrained poet. He ignored his meals and kept drinking wine. His body decayed, and he kept gazing at the ink b Yang Guifei had gifted him.


    To prove his love for Yang Guifei, Li Bai vowed not to write more poems. After having hisst tumbler of wine, he jumped into theke and ended his life as the Immortal Poet.


    When he died, Li Bai still held the ink b that Yang Guifei had gifted him. His spirit wasnt pleased with his death, and his love and yearning for Yang Guifei didnt vanish. As such, his soul attached itself to the ink b.


    When his time came, Li Bais ghost escaped the ink b and possessed Mr. Qis body. He tried to continue the love of his previous life.


    However, Yang Guifeis soul had already vanished in the river of history. He could no longer see the woman he had been yearning for.


    After listening to the sad love story, all those present were shaken. The youngdies were especially moved and cried.


    1. Drinking vinegar is synonym of being jealous in Chinese.

 Chapter 313: Modern Yang Guifei

    Chapter 313: Modern Yang Guifei


    This sort of sentimental man is really rare, said the red-haired girl. Although he knew they wouldnt be together, he still kept loving her


    Indeed, a man like him is rare nowadays


    If I were Yang Guifei, I would have run away with Li Bai.


    That Emperor Xuanzong was nothingpared to Li Bai. In the end, he even sentenced Yang Guifei to death! What a filthy animal he was!


    The girls sighed with emotion andined over this injustice. Li Mazi also stated that he was way more manly than Emperor Xuanzong.


    I kept silent and tried to find a solution.


    There were two ways to send Li Bai off. The first way was to vanquish his soul, while the second to solve his grudge.


    I opted for the second way.


    To solve Li Bais grudge, we had to fulfill hisst wish by letting him see his beloved one.


    However, it wasnt a practical option to summon Yang Guifei. In the end, I decided to dress someone like Yang Guifei with the help of makeup.


    I went to the study room and took Li Bais drawing of the woman. I held it in my hands and studied it carefully.


    Li Mazi approached me. What are you doing?


    Tonight, we need to perform another y.


    A y? Li Mazi smiled. Well, we dontck actresses here.


    I sighed, But the performance tonight wont be the same. Its important and there could be some bed-y


    Bed-y? Li Mazi opened his eyes wide and staggered behind me like a duck. Not bad. Im looking forward to it.


    I shot him a nce. Stop causing trouble.


    Then, I went over to thedies, who were still chatting amongst themselves.


    Mrs. Qi immediately asked me, Do you have a solution to make the resentful Li Bai leave my husband alone?


    Li Bai doesnt want to leave because he has a knot in his heart that hasnt been untied yet. As soon as his wish is fulfilled, he will leave.


    Mrs. Qi rubbed her forehead. He wants to see Yang Guifei, but how can we find her?


    We dont actually need to find the real one. As long as that woman looks simr to her and has some talent, we can fool him. Hes not Li Bai in his full form. Hes just a wisp of Li Bais resentful soul without a clear conscience. We just need to make that woman look simr to Yang Guifei.


    "All right, said Mrs. Qi. Yin Xinyue performed really wellst night. We just need to dress her like Yang Guifei tonight. It will work, I suppose.


    I waved my hands. We cant do that. I suspect that Li Bai wants to have an intimate rtionship with Yang Guifei. What to do if Mr. Qi really makes a move?


    When I said that, people looked at each other.


    The red-haired girl said, That shouldnt be the case, right? I can tell Li Bai was a righteous man. I dont think he would do that kind of pervy act.


    I gave her a bitter smile. I guess you dont have much contact with men. Appetite and lust are only natural for us. Although he acts righteous in front of the woman he loves, he must have some lust.


    The girl with long hair nodded. Yeah, thats right. I totally agree.


    How about I do it instead? said Mrs. Qi. We''re a married couple, so I dont mind.


    I nodded. Thats exactly what I meant.


    But I have never learned how to act. What if I blow it? Will he kill me?


    Although you havent learned acting, we have a bunch of professional actresses here. Let them teach you.


    The youngdies nodded in agreement.


    Yin Xinyue said, If you dont want to make any mistakes, we have to start from your clothing and etiquette. Still, there were many rules in the pce during the Tang dynasty, and Im afraid we cant get it done in one day.


    I said, We are left with no other choice. Mrs. Qi, you have to try your best


    Mrs. Qi nodded. Dont worry. Ill do my best.


    Yin Xinyue was professionally trained, and she could be deemed an expert in this field. She exined how, while walking, one had to stroll with small steps. While talking, they had to choose nice and elegant words with a soft tone. While eating, they had to be careful not to show their teeth or nk their chopsticks.


    Just practicing how to walk properly had worn out Mrs. Qi. However, when she looked at her husbands weakened appearance, she gritted her teeth and continued.


    She also seized the time to learn some ancient poems, especially the ones Li Bai had written to Yang Guifei.


    Although she hadnt picked up a book in years, Mrs. Qi used to be a university student. After a little review, she remembered most of the poems.


    They had a simple meal and didnt even take a lunch break. They just focused on their training.


    The other girls didnt stay idle, either. They went back to theirpany to prepare the costumes and cosmetics. After noontime, they arrived with a big box of makeup tools.


    How long will it take to apply the makeup? I asked.


    I need at least two hours, answered the red-haireddy.


    I thought that Mrs. Qi had practiced enough, so I asked her to stop and let the red-haired girl apply the makeup and do her hair.


    One of the youngdies was a professional makeup artist, so she was in charge of most of Mrs. Qis makeup.


    Mrs. Qi had an oval face, while Yang Guifei had a round face. Also, their facial features werent really simr. I wondered if they could really make it work.


    But after they were finished, I waspletely convinced by their techniques.


    The old Mrs. Qi was gone, and the woman standing in front of us was the noble, graceful, andvish Yang Guifei.


    Her oval face looked rounder, which made me wondered what kind of technique they had used to achieve this.


    She wore a pair of contact lenses. Her nose looked higher, and her red, sulent lips outlined her white teeth. Her hair was put up into an elegant bun, and she wore an imperial robe that was popr in the Tang dynasty.


    She was nowpletely different from the previous vulgar-looking Mrs. Qi.


    I was shocked. Had modern makeup techniques reached such an awesome level already?


    I turned to check Li Mazi. The man had dropped his jaw and was drooling. If I didnt remind him, I guessed he would have a nosebleed.


    Mrs. Qi looked at me and said in a soft voice, Your Majesty, your servant cant do that!


    Her petite body, with her shy appearance, was a delightful torment to a mans desire.


    Yin Xinyue pinched me hard. I returned to my senses and smiled. You guys are awesome. Youve aced it!


    The red-haired girl wore a proud face. Thats a given. If you want, we can turn you into Empress Zhao Feiyan.


    Li Mazi couldnt help butugh. Have makeup techniques be so powerful that they can even change someones gender now?


    I was satisfied with their work, and I felt that everything would go well tonight.


    It was around twilight, so we used the same method as yesterday to feed Mr. Qi. After eating, Mr. Qi fell asleep again.


    I also checked the livor mortis on Mr. Qis neck. Most of it was gone and Mr. Qi looked better.


    I concluded that Mr. Qis conditions looked bad the previous days because he hadnt eaten anything for quite a long time.


    Next was a long wait.


    Mrs. Qi, now dressed as Yang Guifei, sat in a dignified manner and recited from an ancient book of poems in a soft voice. She had the right style and right look at this moment. Even I was charmed by her elegance and mistook her for the real Yang Guifei.


    We then hid in the kitchen and quietly watched.


    Around midnight, Mr. Qi stood up from his bed. At first, he absentmindedly looked around. Then, he headed to the bathroom.


    But when he passed by Mrs. Qi, he looked at her in astonishment.


    However, he was stunned for just a while. He didnt linger and walked to the bathroom to take a bath and change himself.


    Mrs. Qi threw me a questioning nce. I knew she was asking for help. That guy actually failed to recognize Yang Guifei!

 Chapter 314: Li Bais Long Wait

    Chapter 314: Li Bai''s Long Wait


    I sent Mrs. Qi a short text message. He does not have a clear mind right now. Wait until he starts to draw a picture. I think he will recover and recognize you. Just wait


    Mrs. Qi could only wait. However, by looking at her face, I knew she was a little restless.


    After taking a bath, Mr. Qi went to his study room, vomiting another mouthful of heart blood onto the Xuan paper.


    His heart blood looked really light tonight, to the point that it didnt even look like blood.


    Mr. Qi started to grind his ink with water and began drawing.


    He had drawn four or five pictures of the beauty, but he hadnt recognized Mrs. Qi yet. I was a little worried and wondered if Mrs. Qi looked different from the beauty in his picture.


    Left with no choice, I had to ask Mrs. Qi to enter the trap herself.


    I raised two fingers and signaled at Mrs. Qi to proceed with the second n.


    Mrs. Qi nodded. She stood up and elegantly strolled toward the study room. At the same time, she began to read the poem, The quiet, peaceful melody.


    <em>Cloudsrecallherrobes, blossomsherface, Springwindscaresstherail, dewdenpetalsgrowlush. Ifyoudonotseeher atopJade-ClusterMountain, Thensurelyyoushallmeether atJasperTerracebeneaththemoon.</em>


    <em>Onaboughofbrilliantred, dew''sthickeningfragrance, ThecloudsandrainuponMountWu recklesslybreakmen''shearts. Shouldyouask, intheHanPce, whocapare? FetchingFlying-Swallow, atherease,adornsherselfanew.</em>


    <em>The"AcimedFlower" andthe"RuinationofKingdoms" takepleasureineachother,</em>


    <em>Solovelythattheprince watcheswithasmile.</em>


    It was the poem Li Bai had written to Yang Guifei when they first met.


    Mrs. Qi now moved nobly and recited the poem in a sweet and tender voice. She really had the aura of an imperial concubine, which made people gape at her.


    After hearing someone read his own poem, Mr. Qi was perplexed for a while. Skeptically, he lifted his head to look at Mrs. Qi.


    Mrs. Qi smiled at him. Sir, do you remember me?


    Mr. Qi dropped his jaw, and his entire body shivered in excitement. The brush in his hand fell to the ground, and his passionate eyes gazed at Mrs. Qi as tears rolled down his cheeks.


    However, he quickly got a hold of himself. He checked and adjusted his robe and gently read, Beauty folds the bead curtain, her exquisite brows furrow. Though one sees wet tears stain, he doesnt know whom shements in her heart Guifei, is that you?


    Mrs. Qi nodded. Yes, its me.


    Li Bai was so excited that he rushed toward her. I cant believe that I can see you again in this life. Now, I can die without regrets.


    Just call me Yuhuan. Mrs. Qi smiled.


    Mr. Qi nodded. Yuhuan, do you know how much I have missed you? Ive missed you a lot. Even if I cut all the bamboos in the southern mountains to make books, they wouldnt be enough for me to write how much Ive missed you.


    I understand, said Mrs. Qi. How could I not feel the same? After you suddenly left, I yearned for you and missed you dearly. I thought I would almost turn crazy


    Li Baiforted Mrs. Qi. Then, they began to share their stories and exchanged passionate words. They cried as if they were two lovers that had been forced apart.


    It was understandable as the time they were apart was much longer than other couples. They couldnt meet for several thousand years.


    I watched, and seeing that things were proceeding well, I exhaled in relief. Mrs. Qi seemed to be well immersed in her role; I felt that everything would be fine.


    I then asked Li Mazi to keep an eye on them as I drifted into sleep.


    I didnt know how long it had been when Li Mazis shout woke me up. Dreamily, I heard Li Mazi gasp and say that they had started doing it.


    I didnt pay attention to Li Mazis habit of peeping and drifted into sleep again.


    After some time, I was awoken by someone screaming. I opened my eyes and saw the bewildered Mr. Qi standing in the kitchen. His eyes angrily gazed at us as he shouted and cursed.


    Mr. Qi had returned to his senses, but it seemed he had no recollection of what had happened.


    I smiled and said, Mr. Qi, wee back.


    Mr. Qi looked around cautiously. You, why are you in my home this early in the morning? Do you want to steal my antiques?


    The sleeping girls behind me had also woken up. They looked at Mr. Qi with drowsy eyes and fumed, Do you have no shame? We saved your life, and youre treating us like this?!


    Mr. Qi was startled since he didnt understand.


    When Mr. Qi saw the girls, his eyes sparkled with desire. He hated that he couldnt just swallow them. However, he managed to control himself. Mr. Zhang, who are they? Why havent I seen them before? Youd better tell me the truth. Otherwise, dont me me for calling the police.


    Call the police for what? Mrs. Qi yawned and walked out of the bedroom. She had changed into a short nightgown, but her makeup was still on.


    She looked beautiful at this moment. The makeup had touches of ancient and modern styles.


    Mr. Qi quickly went over to his wife. Sweetheart, youre up. Is your belly okay?


    Mrs. Qi was stunned at first. She then sighed and hugged her husband, sobbing. Youre back! In the end, I still prefer the current you.


    The current me? What do you mean? Mr. Qi was baffled, which made his silly face look fun to watch.


    Mrs. Qi then told him about the whole possession thing. Mr. Qi didnt believe her and insisted that the ink b wasnt a problem.


    He carefully hugged the ink b as he was afraid that Mrs. Qi would throw it away.


    In the end, Mrs. Qi forced Mr. Qi to hand me the ink b. Otherwise, she would divorce him.


    Mr. Qi was very reluctant but still gave me the ink b.


    However, as he was a savvy businessman, he didnt want to bear any losses and asked me to pay the money he had used to buy the ink b.


    Mr. Qis life returned to normality. Through this experience, the rtionship with his wife was strengthened.


    Mrs. Qi was touched since the first thing that Mr. Qi had asked when he woke up was her well-being. Mr. Qi had almost died, but he still worried about his wife. Any woman in this situation would be touched, right?


    And, after a passionate night with Li Bai, Mrs. Qi found that she preferred her husband. Mr. Qi was a capable man and was filled with concern for her. On the other hand, Li Bai only cared about revenge and the country.


    Under the wheel of history, a person''s love was very fragile. It couldnt endure even one hit.


    However, Li Bai had waited for Yang Guifei for thousands of years.


    You could say that he was silly, or even obsessed.


    But he was Li Bai, the one and only Li Bai.

 Chapter 315: A Guest From the Zhang Family

    Chapter 315: A Guest From the Zhang Family


    I decided not to sell the ink b for the time being as I had to make sure that the soul living inside waspletely gone. It was not only for the safety of my customers, but also to keep my reputation.


    But when I returned to my antique shop, I saw a familiar figure squatting in front of my ce.


    It was the gold-toothed man from the Zhang family.


    <em>Why did hee here? Is he trying to lure me into another trap?</em>


    I was still angry at the Zhang family for using me. I couldnt believe that this bastard was squatting in front of my door!


    Li Mazi couldnt contain his anger, either. He clenched his teeth and stormed forward. He grabbed the gold-toothed mans cor and red at him. You little bastard, how you daree here!


    The gold-toothed man closed his eyes and said differently, If hitting me can help vent your anger, please do it


    Before he could finish, Li Mazi had already punched him. Did you really think that I wouldnt hit you?


    The gold-toothed man screamed and covered his swollen face. Crap, you really hit me! My jaw!


    I gave Li Mazi a thumbs up. Nice hit!


    The gold-toothed man forced a smile. Young Master, I thought you would see the big picture and not concern yourself over these small details. We had to do what we did in order to protect our remaining branches. It was the only way to stop the Longquan Vi from destroying our Zhang family.


    I shot him a nce. Im not a three-year-old.


    Then, I ignored him and walked into my antique shop.


    The gold-toothed man hurried to catch up to me and entered the shop.


    Actually, I understood why the Zhang family had to do that. After putting myself in their shoes, if I were the head of the Zhang family, I wouldnt hesitate to do the same.


    It was akin to making a small sacrifice to maximize the profits.


    Since Chuyi had joined our side, we could somewhat suppress the Longquan Vis momentum. Otherwise, given our bad rtionship, a horrible fight would break out.


    If that happened, even if the Zhang family wasnt eradicated, several branches would be destroyed, and our thousand-year-long legacy would be gone. Let alone the Zhang family, I would also feel sad. Moreover, the grudge between the Longquan Vi and I ran deep. I was very likely on their hit list.


    The Zhang familys n not only harmed the Longquan Vi, but it also dragged Chuyi into this battle, which made me feel happy and relieved.


    However, I couldnt bear the fact that I was used. I had to vent out this anger.


    Although the gold-toothed man tried his best to exin, I still wore a cold face. As I was ignoring him, the gold-toothed man kept ranting.


    All right, all right. Stop talking. I was really annoyed, so I had to stop him. Tell me, why have youe here?


    The gold-toothed man said, Our Zhang family isnt that despicable. Since we know that we offended youst time, Im here to apologize.


    Tch, tch. Li Mazi smirked and said in a mocking tone, Are you going to apologize with words alone?


    Of course not, answered the gold-toothed man. Ive brought along a generous gift.


    Li Mazi and I assessed the gold-toothed man from head to toe. We didnt see anything on his person that could be a generous gift.


    What is it?


    The gold-toothed man exined, Dont misunderstand. We know that you two are men with virtues. Even if we were to give you money, you wouldn''t want it. Also, you could just earn that much by yourselves.


    How do you know that we wouldnt want it? I sneered. Well dly ept your money. If you havent brought money with you, get the heck out of here.


    The gold-toothed man gave a wry smile. I guessed he didnt expect that I had learned to be thick-skinned like Li Mazi.


    Anyway, we want to buy that ink b, and we can buy it for five times the market price. Besides, Im going to offer you a business deal. Not only will you receive the payment from the client, but we will also give you a big bonus. This is a big act of generosity.


    I nced at the gold-toothed man. Are you really that kind? No, Im not going to ept it. Who knows if its a trap again.


    The gold-toothed man looked reluctant. Young Master, this time, we have no ulterior motives! We feel ashamed of our previous actions, so please receive this generous gift.


    I looked at Li Mazi to see his opinion. Actually, I was a little moved as I hadnt had a case in a few months. I did need the money.


    Li Mazis situation wasnt better than mine. After considering things, he proposed a neutral solution. All right, show us your goodwill first. Buy the ink b to show us your good intentions. Then, we will consider whether we should ept the case.


    The gold-toothed man hesitated then nodded. Okay. Young Master, name a price.


    You told me youll buy it five times the market price. The market price is around five hundred thousand, so it should be two million and five hundred thousand renminbi. However, Ill give you some face and take two million only.


    Although this price was a rip-off, the gold-toothed man didnt bargain. He gave us a nod, then called his family. One minuteter, we received the payment.


    You received the money, right? When will you depart?


    I chuckled. Did I agree to go? I just finished a case, so Im going to have a vacation.


    The gold-toothed man was so anxious that he almost cried. Young Master, please. If you dont ept this mission, I will be punished when I get home. Ive sent you the money already


    I said Im tired. You should leave. I closed my shop and prepared to get a good sleep.


    The gold-toothed man hurried to block my door. Young Master, are you trying to push me into a pit of fire?


    Dont try to act clever in front of me. I can ept the case, but you have to tell me all the details. I want to know what could happen at the worst and what traps lie ahead. My eyes sparkled as I spoke.


    But theres no trap this time. How can I tell you about it if it doesnt even exist?


    Then, you better create one, because Im not going to ept the case otherwise, I told him coldly. Im giving you three seconds. After three seconds, Ill pay you no more attention.


    I started to count down. Three Two


    All right, dont count, dont count! Sigh, I have a headache now. Let me think about it Okay, Im going to tell you. You two really got me. The gold-toothed man began to sweat and eventually lost his bnce,nding on his butt.


    I opened the door with a smile. Thats more like it. Now, spit it out.


    Actually, its not a big deal. However, its rted to your grandfather, and our Zhang family finds it inconvenient to get involved.


    What? I was startled. My grandfather? How could it be rted to my grandfather? Tell me the details.


    The gold-toothed man nodded.


    The client this time was one of the Zhang familys old clients. When my grandfather was still working under the Zhang family in Jiangbei, he had been in charge of this client.


    However, when my grandfather had a fight with the Zhang family, they had snatched this client from him.


    When they snatched his client, my grandfather warned the Zhang family about the danger of that otherworldly item. He couldnt subdue it, only seal it. Around fifteen yearster, that otherworldly item would break the seal. And, except for him, no one could seal it again. He hoped that the Zhang family would consider this matter.


    However, the Zhang family was blinded by the benefits. They didnt believe him and thought that he was trying to deceive them.


    Unexpectedly, fifteen yearster, that otherworldly item really broke the seal and wounded four experts of the Zhang family!


    The Zhang family was ready to let go of the case, but the clients family was really powerful. If they chose to ignore the case, they would be in big trouble.


    Left with no choice, they came to me. They thought that my grandpa had taught me how to seal the otherworldly item and wanted to see if I could help them!

 Chapter 316: A Non-disclosure Agreement

    Chapter 316: A Non-disclosure Agreement


    After listening to him, I was furious. If it werent for the money he had sent me, I would have beaten him to death.


    Was this the generous gift they were talking about? It was like ying minesweeper. If I could clear the mines, everybody would be happy. If I couldnt, I would be blown up into pieces!


    I gritted my teeth and red at the gold-toothed man, who said weakly, Dont get mad, listen to me. This time, we will send people from the Zhang family to protect you in secret. We wont let anything bad happen to you. More importantly, we thought that if we send you there, your grandfather wont stay idle and watch. If he takes action, the otherworldly item can be solved easily...


    I felt so angry that I couldnt breathe. I red at him one more time.


    The gold-toothed man hurried to exin, Young master, I really meant it when I said that youll be alright this time. There wont be any problems, I promise. Anyway, we shouldnt dy this further; we should set out. If we dy even a second, an innocent life could be lost.


    Were not going, said Li Mazi resolutely. Were not going to rush there just to get ourselves killed.


    The gold-toothed man looked like he was going to cry. Please, brothers. If you dont go, how am I going to exin things to the head of the family?


    I looked at the gold-toothed man with a serious face. May I ask you one thing? If I go, can I see my grandfather?


    The gold-toothed man nodded immediately. While Im not one hundred percent sure, Im around eighty percent certain. Although your grandpa has departed to the other world, hes now a messenger of the Netherworld. You know better than me how powerful such messengers can be.


    I grabbed his cor and fiercely red at him. Im warning you. If I find out that youve been deceived me, I will use a dozen otherworldly items to torture you to death. Im not kidding.


    The gold-toothed man nodded. Yes, yes. I understand.


    I then agreed. Ill ept this task.


    Li Mazi sighed. Little Brother Zhang, why would you go this far for someone that has died already? Why are you willing to take serious risks just for the chance of meeting him one more time? Its not worth it.


    I patted Li Mazis shoulder and said nothing.


    He couldnt understand what I had on my mind. I missed my grandpa a lot, and there were so many things that I wanted to ask him. For example, who had killed him? If I didnt take revenge, I would never be able to feel at peace.


    The gold-toothed man then told me about the client.


    This time, our client was the biggest shareholder of a familypany. His properties were worth more than one billion renminbi. Moreover, he was a member of the National People''s Congress. That was why the Zhang family didnt dare to offend him.


    Since he was really powerful, people kept an eye on his every move. We had to solve this case quickly, and we had to do it discreetly without creating anymotion.


    Moreover, the gold-toothed man couldnt disclose any more information before we met the client in person. We tried to push him, but he begged us to stop as he was just a subordinate.


    Although the conditions were strict and I didnt want to get involved, I couldnt change how the world worked. I reluctantly agreed.


    Since we couldnt dy any longer, we drove directly to the destination. The gold-toothed man didnt even give us an address but sat with us in the car and guided us.


    On the way there, I couldnt ease my heart as I kept thinking about my grandpa. I wondered how he was doing.


    Around two dayster, we finally arrived at our destination: Wu River, Anhui.


    I knew the Wu River. This ce was where Xiang Yu, Hegemon King of Western Chu, drew his sword and killed himself.


    However, the ce was very different now. Half of the big river had dried up, and the pollution was really serious. It no longer resembled a historic ce. Only the stinky smell from the river remained, which made people hate it.


    The gold-toothed man had already contacted the client. The client told us to wait at a coffee shop named Yipin Store.


    I was a little disappointed. Ancient people said it was a joy to have visitors, but this family didnt seem to be of the same opinion. It seemed they looked down on us.


    The gold-toothed man sounded a little embarrassed. Thats how the rich are. Dont lower yourself to their level.


    As I had been through a lot and met many types of people, I didnt mind these small details. I didnt talk and decided to follow his lead. After all, my purpose was to see my grandfather.


    In my heart, I wondered if he would even show up. <em></em>


    When we drove to Yipin Store, we had to book a private room by ourselves, which further enraged Li Mazi. He almost broke his ss and asked to leave.


    The gold-toothed man was scared. Li Mazi, please dont cause unnecessary trouble! They are really powerful, so just put up with it. Anyway, its not like were going to bear any losses. When the time of the paymentes, we should skin them!


    Li Mazi had to shift his attention to the money, but he still cursed, That bastard better not show up. Otherwise, Ill really rip him off for good!


    Around ten minutester, the clients representative arrived at the coffee shop. He was a bespectacled middle-aged man that wore leather shoes and a famous-branded suit. With the leather briefcase he carried, he looked like a sessful businessman.


    His skeptical eyes scanned us, and he frowned right after. I guessed he wasnt convinced as we looked too young.


    However, he had experience, and he greeted us with a smile. Sorry, Ive let you wait for quite a long time. I was very busy, and Ive already run three meetings this morning.


    The gold-toothed man tried to leave a good impression. Its okay, its okay. Mr. Qin, we know you have to manage a lot of things and that your time is precious. Youre not free like we are. It wouldn''t be a problem for us to wait for you for ten days, let alone a few minutes.


    Li Mazi was so enraged that his mouth twitched. He couldnt believe that the gold-toothed man had so little integrity.


    Mr. Qin gave him a slight nod then sat down at the table.


    The gold-toothed man became so enthusiastic. Let me introduce them to you, Mr. Qin. This young man is one of the outstanding juniors of our Zhang family. Hes really skilled, and hes even better than some of the seniors! The otherworldly items that he has dealt with were all subdued. His sess rate is around one hundred percent!


    Mr. Qin said, It seems I had underestimated you.


    Of course, this was just to keep up appearances. I could tell that Mr. Qin was still skeptical about me.


    The gold-toothed man pointed at Li Mazi. This is Mr. Li, Mr. Zhangs assistant.


    Mr. Qin nodded and gave Li Mazi a faint smile.


    Li Mazi was about to go crazy. He discreetly kicked the gold-toothed mans shin as he wasnt pleased with his introduction. He was against beingbeled as a simple assistant.


    Mr. Qin saw everything, but he still wore a faint smile and said nothing.


    He then took a sip of coffee and started to talk. This friend must have told you about our situation, I suppose. My older brother has a very special position, so we have to keep everything low-key. If people catch wind of this, it will negatively affect my brother. It could even influence our familys business.


    The gold-toothed man entered tter mode again. Mr. Qin, please dont worry. They are excellent at their jobs. Im sure they wont say a word about this.


    Thats good then. Mr. Qin smiled and took ten stacks of money from his briefcase and ced them on the table. Then, he fished out three documents and ced them in front of myself, Li Mazi, and the gold-toothed man respectively. You can consider this one hundred thousand renminbi as hush money. Also, please sign this nondisclosure agreement.


    The gold-toothed man nodded immediately. No problem.


    Then, he took out a pen and quickly jotted his name.


    Li Mazi was moved when he saw the stacks of money. He took a moment to consider then was about to sign his name.


    However, I snatched the pen from him before he could write a word. All those present looked at me with odd eyes. The gold-toothed man was scared, and the corners of his mouth were twitching.


    Mr. Zhang, what do you mean by this? Mr. Qin looked at me with a confused expression.


    I smiled. What if I dont sign?

 Chapter 317: The Demonic Sword

    Chapter 317: The Demonic Sword


    Mr. Qin said reluctantly, If you dont sign it, Im afraid you wont be able to leave this coffee shop before the situation is solved.


    I smiled casually. This fellow wanted to scare us into signing. If we signed this non-disclosure agreement, it wasnt different from giving in to him. If we yielded this time, wed have to do the same in the future. Moreover, if we identally leaked these matters, wouldnt we be his servants?


    That was why I had to stand up to him this time. I wouldnt give in.


    My actions scared the gold-toothed man. He shivered and looked at me and then at Mr. Qin. Mr. Qin, dont lower yourself to his level. Hes young and hot-tempered, and can be a little childish. I will talk to him and brief him on the situation.


    Then, the gold-toothed man turned to implore me.


    I was irritated after seeing his servile face. I shot him a fierce nce to get him to stop his nonsense.


    The gold-toothed mans face looked pale. He was terrified.


    But then, Mr. Qin suddenlyughed. I like men like you, Mr. Zhang. You decide fast and are very resolute. Its okay if you dont want to sign it.


    He picked up the documents and tore them apart. I have a little knowledge of fortune-telling by observing people''s faces. I now know that Mr. Zhang is a man of his word. I was worried for nothing, so lets just skip this troublesome procedure.


    I exhaled in relief. I feared that Mr. Qin was the sort of fellow that would act without regarding the consequences. If he was enraged and restrained us here, we would be helpless.


    I felt that he was someone capable of killing us to make us shut up forever.


    Since he had changed his mind, I no longer needed to continue with this farce. So, could you tell me the details of this situation now?


    Mr. Qin nodded and nced at the gold-toothed man.


    The gold-toothed man nodded with a smile. He then rushed to the door and stood on guard.


    The matter seemed to be so serious and discreet that even the gold-toothed man wasnt allowed to know.


    No wonder he hadnt told us any details at first. It turned out he didnt know anything.


    Mr. Qin started to tell the details. It has worn our entire family out. If we cant solve it, my brother wont be able to endure it for long. Everything started ten days ago


    Mr. Qins brother, Qin Minghao, was the head of the family. Qin Minghao was a kind-hearted man, rich andpassionate. He managed a charity fund and was a famous phnthropist and also a Buddhist. He treated people very well and had many good friends.


    However, ten days ago, Qin Minghao started to act weird.


    At first, his character changed greatly.


    A maid had identally knocked a teacup, which made the tea spill onto hisp while she was serving his meal. If it had happened before, Qin Minghao wouldnt be enraged. At most, he would reprimand the maid a little and ask her to be more careful.


    However, this time, Qin Minghaos face turned purple in rage. He mmed the table and started to shout curses at the young maid. His actions shocked everybody in the house. They couldnt believe that a kind-hearted man like Qin Minghao could use such filthy words to curse at someone.


    Qin Minghao persistently used the young maid of deliberately scalding him. He even threatened to call the police and have her arrested. The young maid was petrified and cried. If Mr. Qin here hadnt helped her, the young maid would have been in jail as Qin Minghao did have that sort of power.


    At first, Qin Minghaos family thought that he was stressed at work and that he had just vented it out on the young maid. They didnt take it seriously.


    But then, Qin Minghaos character became even worse. He started to trouble all the guards and workers in the house. Whenever they made a mistake, he would im that they wanted to harm him. He insulted them, and sometimes, he went as far as assaulting them.


    For example, one time, azy guard hid in the bathroom to smoke. Qin Minghao busted him and used the man of attempting to burn his house down. He fired him on the spot and asked him for a bigpensation.


    The amount he asked for was so high that even if the guard used all his savings, it wouldn''t be enough topensate him.


    The security staff was so desperate that he wanted tomit suicide. If Mr. Qin hadnt secretly given him the money, that man would have already killed himself.


    Since the leader of the family had be so strange, the board of directors and elders in the family couldnt sit still. They carefully considered things and decided to let Qin Minghao rest for a while. They found him a psychiatrist to talk to him.


    However, the psychiatrist couldnt help at all, and Qin Minghaos situation was getting worse. Qin Minghao hit the psychiatrist and said that he wanted to kill him. The psychiatrist no longer dared to see him and suspected that Qin Minghao was suffering from paranoia. He suggested that the family seek consultation from foreign experts.


    Feeling helpless, Mr. Qin had to find a foreign expert.


    During this time, Qin Minghao randomly got his sanity back. Since they had some important events they needed Qin Minghao to present and lead, as soon as Qin Minghao regained a clear mind, they arranged some meetings for him.


    But then, during an important meeting with their top business partner, his sickness resurfaced. Right when they were about to sign a contract, Qin Minghao changed. He pointed at their business partner and screamed that he wasnt pleased about the several business deals they had done. He imed that the partner had cheated him many times and that the otherpany had plotted against hispany and earned a lot from these deals. Heined that the contract this time had some ws that would harm hispany to thest penny. He used the otherpany of conspiring against him and attempting to make him lose his wealth and his family.


    The otherpany was one of their top 3 business partners. Since Qin Minghao had insulted the representative, they couldnt keep this customer, and the Qin Group suffered a great loss. The elders of the Qins were all enraged. They had even thought of a new recement for his post. If Mr. Qi hadnt begged the elders, the Qin Group would be in the hands of an outsider already!


    After the event, Qin Minghao locked himself in his room and no longer came out. Every activity of his was done in his self-confining room. Eventually, the ce started to reek of his own waste, but he still didnt allow anybody toe in and clean his room. Qin Minghao suspected everybody and thought that they all wanted to murder him.


    Then, after two days, Qin Minghao walked out all of a sudden and changed into clean clothes. Although his face was still pale, he looked better than before.


    People were surprised and thought that his sickness had gotten better as he acted like a normal person. The only strange thing was that he didnt speak much and held a sword in his hand.


    The sword was strange and had ayer of patina on the surface. It looked really old. The sword was blunt and heavy, but the weak-looking Qin Minghao held it effortlessly.


    Mr. Qin didnt recognize that sword, so it wasnt something that was originally in their house. He didnt know where Qin Minghao found it.


    Qin Minghao said nothing and went out of the house. Mr. Qi was worried that Qin Minghao would encounter danger. Brother, where are you going?


    Qin Minghao turned his head and nced at his brother. It was also when Mr. Qi saw his brothers calm but scary red eyes.


    After a while, Qin Minghao answered, Ill be going out for a while.


    Mr. Qin couldnt ease his mind and wanted to follow his brother, but Qin Minghao went crazy again. He tried to use his long sword to kill him. While wielding his sword, he cursed loudly, You wanna kill me, right? I know you wanna kill me! Donte close to me. I wont show mercy!


    Left with no choice, Mr. Qin could only watch Qin Minghao leave.


    Since he was very worried, he brought two security guards with him and followed his brother.


    They followed Qin Minghao all the way to the Wu River.


    The Wu River was heavily polluted, with industrial waste floating everywhere, and the stinky water had turned red. The wind blew over, which brought an even thicker smell. Since Mr. Qin was a rich man and wasnt used to these conditions, he almost puked.


    Meanwhile, Qin Minghao acted as if he didnt smell anything. He lifted his head and stood on the bank of Wu River as the wind ruffled his hair. He kept silent, and his figure looked very lonely.


    Heavens, you dont have eyes! Qin Minghao suddenly thundered as if his wrath had rocketed up to the sky. Even you are jealous of my strength and want to destroy me! Hahaha, even if Im a ghost, Im still a hero. I have to find you and ask for justice!


    Then, Qin Minghao raised his sword and prepared to cut his throat.


    Everyone was scared as Qin Minghao wanted to kill himself. Mr. Qi gawked in shock, but he quickly got a hold of himself and sprinted forward with the two guards.


    However, they were too far away from Qin Minghao. Qin Minghao acted fast, and Mr. Qin clearly saw the sword glide across his brothers neck. Blood spurted everywhere.


    One of the guards was a former member of the special forces. He was the first one to approach Qin Minghao, and before the man could cut his throat one more time, he subdued him.


    Mr. Qin saw a deep cut on his brothers throat. However, it seemed the cut hadnt reached his artery, so he wouldnt bleed to death.


    He had used a blunt sword to make such a big cut. Mr. Qin shuddered after thinking about the amount of force his brother had used to cut himself!


    They then brought Qin Minghao to a hospital nearby. Qin Minghao didnt cooperate and cursed the entire time about how the heavens wanted to destroy him. He struggled, kicked, and didnt cooperate with the doctor.


    Eventually, the doctor had to inject him with a sedative. Even so, Qin Minghao still kept mumbling those words. The scene scared all those present.


    He was out of danger for now, but what were they supposed to do next?


    A good man had turned into this. Would Qi Minghao have to live in an asylum for the rest of his life? This fate was even worse than death!

 Chapter 318: Hegemon King of Western Chu

    Chapter 318: Hegemon King of Western Chu


    After Qin Minghaos wound was treated, the Qin family took him home. To prevent him from hurting himself again, they had to put him in a straitjacket. Moreover, there was always someone watching him to prevent him from running away.


    Qin Minghao was so enraged that he tried to bite his tongue off to kill himself, which led his family to keep his mouth stuffed with a medical sponge.


    As a result, Qin Minghao began to stop eating. Mr. Qin tried to talk him out of it, but he didnt listen. In the end, they reached an agreement. If Mr. Qin freed him of his restraints, he would eat again.


    Mr. Qin was helpless, so he had to do as Qin Minghao had requested. His brother actually kept his words and started to eat again. However, every night, hed run to the river and yell at the sky for treating him unfairly. Then, hed attempt to kill himself.


    The guards had to stop him every time.


    It wasnt realistic to let him continue acting like that.


    Mr. Qin eventually remembered the Zhang family in Jiangbei. Given his brothers condition, he was either pestered by some evil spirit or was suffering from a mental illness.


    However, they were pretty sure that it wasnt a mental problem, which left them with only one conclusion. He had encountered an evil spirit! That was why he decided to seek help from the Zhang family. Although he wasnt willing to let outsiders know about this private matter, he didnt have a choice.


    The Zhang family attached great importance to this matter as the Qin family was a big client of theirs. They immediately sent several experts to help. Of course, they had to sign the non-disclosure agreement.


    After asking for some details, the four experts understood the situation and prepared to subdue the soul in the sword at night time.


    However, the resentful energy in the sword was really massive. It was beyond what they had imagined.


    In the end, the formation the four experts had set up backfired on them. They grabbed the sword and tried to cut their own throats.


    The strangest thing was that after the sword absorbed human blood, the originally blunt edge had be much sharper. It could now easily cut a small tree.


    After that, the Zhang family sent more powerful members to deal with the otherworldly item, but the oue was the same. They couldnt finish the item and almost lost their lives.


    As such, the Zhang family no longer dared to act recklessly. They called for a meeting toe up with a solution.


    Eventually, an old man who was my grandfather''s assistant in the past remembered my grandfathers words from back then.


    They realized that the seal on the otherworldly item had expired.


    My grandpa was a capable man and could only seal that thing; he wasnt able to subdue it. This proved that the soul in the item was very intimidating. The higher-ups of the Zhang family all agreed that they had to find the one who tied the knot in order to untie it.


    They guessed that my grandpa had used some secret technique of his branch to seal the soul and concluded that I might know it as well. That was why they had sent the gold-toothed man to invite me to join this case.


    After listening to him, I fell deep in thought.


    I had a lot of doubts, but the biggest one was the origin of the blood-drinking sword. Just where had ite from? An otherworldly item was a physical entity and couldnt appear out of thin air.


    Mr. Qin, do you know anything about that sword?


    Mr. Qin said, When it first appeared, I thought it looked familiar. I felt like I had seen it before. But I couldnt remember when and where After we took my brother to the hospital, a servant called from home. The servant said that they found an open passage in my brothers room that led to a cave. There was a fine agarwood box in the cave, but the box was now empty. When the servant told me that, I finally remembered that fifteen years ago, a strange old man hade to my house to deal with some paranormal activities. Eventually, he buried something in my brothers room. At the time, I was just a teenager, and I wasnt allowed to ask about these kinds of things, so I dont really know much. However, I suspect that the old man was the one who buried the sword in my house fifteen years ago.


    There was no doubt that the strange old man was my grandfather.


    Thanks to the information I got from the Zhang family and Mr. Qin, I could conclude that my grandpa had buried that sword there. Qin Minghao was eventually bewitched by the departed soul, and he had unearthed it.


    Mr. Qin saw me sink in my thoughts. Do you have a solution yet?


    I looked pensive and said, The Zhang family has various methods at its disposal. Did they figure out the origin of the sword yet?


    Qin Minghao was a little surprised. Im really busy, so I dont think they would report such things to me. Gold-toothed,e here.


    The gold-toothed man rushed over. Mr. Qin, do you need anything?


    "Do you know anything about that sword?


    The gold-toothed man nodded. I do.


    Good. Please tell Mr. Zhang what you know, said Mr. Qin.


    I had something on my mind, so I wanted to confirm my theory and see if I could find any additional clues.


    However, I was a little disappointed that their assumption wasnt different from mine.


    From what Mr. Qin told us, I had a rough idea of where that otherworldly item hade from.


    There was a famous story about a suicide that took ce at the Wu River.


    Back then, Xiang Yu, the powerful Hegemon King of Western Chu, had managed to overthrow the tyrannical Qin dynasty.


    However, heter fell into Liu Bangs treacherous trap. His great army was besieged at the Wu River, and only twenty-eight of his men survived.


    Xiang Yus subordinates talked him into crossing the Wu River to return to Jiangdong and gather his army one more time, but Xiang Yu answered, Weve lost our momentum! Its not that I, Xiang Yu, am not capable. It''s the heavens that want me dead!


    He then led the twenty-eight surviving horsemen and rushed towards the enemy army. Wherever he went, blood streamed like a river. Xiang Yu had killed several enemy generals.


    His horsemen cried while looking at him. They all believed that it was the heavens will to destroy Xiang Yu; he could never lose otherwise.


    Since it was the heavens will, even if he was the invincible Hegemon King of Western Chu, how could he fight back?


    Xiang Yu took his Thunder Sword, pointed it at the sky, and shouted. He cursed the heavens for being blind. Then, he killed himself with that sword. The twenty-eight horsemen followed him andmitted suicide as well.


    The Wu River surged and gobbled up the invincible Hegemon King of Western Chu, making him disappear into the river of history.


    No one had ever thought that Xiang Yus soul would wake up again after several thousand years.


    Everything seemed to match. When Qin Minghao was controlled by the soul, he cursed and shouted at the sky, saying, The heavens wants to destroy me! Even if Im a ghost, Im still a hero. Im going to find you and ask for justice!


    I sighed. When the Hegemon King of Western Chu was alive, he was considered invincible. Now, his resentful energy was massive, and he didnt even fear the heavens.


    Could an otherworldly merchant even deal with him?


    As I thought about this, I admired my grandpa even more. He was able to seal Xiang Yu all by himself, which proved how skilled he was.


    Mr. Qin saw me contemting for quite a long time. He said, somewhat dejected, I didnt expect that item to be so scary. If you turn down this case, I wont me you. Just consider that one hundred thousand renminbi as your traveling fee.


    Then, without waiting for my answer, Mr. Qin turned and left.


    The gold-toothed man and Li Mazi winked at me and asked me to ept the money and leave. After looking at Mr. Qin, I knew he didnt really count on the Zhang family and didnt want to embarrass them further.


    However, I wasnt ready to give up. I had a feeling that if I followed the Thunder Sword, I would be able to see my grandfather one more time.


    In the end, I pped the table and jolted up. Mr. Qin, I ept this mission.


    The gold-toothed man closed his eyes in despair.


    Li Mazi was likewise bewildered.


    Mr. Qin was also surprised. He turned and asked, Do you know how to deal with this situation?


    No, I said. But, how can I know if I dont give it a try?


    Haha. Mr. Qin suddenlyughed oddly. Its good for the youth to be bold, but you shouldnt act rashly


    Im not being rash, I directly interrupted Mr. Qin.


    Mr. Qin shrugged. Mr. Zhang, if something unexpected happens, Im afraid we won''t be able to protect you.


    Im not afraid of death, I answered coldly.


    I was rather tame usually, but when I had to abide by my principles, I was more stubborn than anybody else.


    Since this was rted to my grandfather, I had to see it through to the end. Moreover, I had a very important clue now. Something was wrong with Mr. Qin. He acted as if he did not want this matter to be solved.


    The gold-toothed man was so worried that he began sweating. While wiping his sweat, he apologized to Mr. Qin. Mr. Qin, forgive me, but I need to talk to him.


    No need, I sneered. Im epting this task in the capacity of an otherworldly merchant. It has nothing to do with the Zhang family.


    The gold-toothed man reluctantly sat back on his stool.


    Mr. Qin also had no choice but to sit. He restored his elegant bearing, and his odd expression was nowhere to be seen. All right, youll have to sign this life contract then. I know a bit about your profession, and no matter what happens to you, we wont be responsible.


    Li Mazi was scared. He gently pulled the hem of my shirt and signaled at me not to sign. However, I didnt hesitate to receive the contract and signed it, handing it back to Mr. Qin right after.


    Mr. Qin was surprised. I guessed he didnt expect me to be this direct as I didnt agree to sign the non-disclosure agreement earlier.


    However, he didnt say anything. He checked the document and stored it away. He then stood up and motioned at us. All right, follow me.


    Mr. Qin walked in front while Li Mazi was behind me. The gold-toothed man gave me a wry smile, but he didnt go with us.


    I turned around and looked at him. Why are you lingering? Lets go.


    The gold-toothed man waved his hand. Im afraid I wont be able to apany you, Young Master

 Chapter 319: The Beautiful Sisters of the Qin Family

    Chapter 319: The Beautiful Sisters of the Qin Family


    You must go, I ordered. Although this business has nothing to do with the Zhang family, it does with you.


    The gold-toothed man was frightened. C-Can I not go?


    I shook my head. No, you must.


    The gold-toothed man looked as if he would cry in the next second. Young Master, please stop kidding. I dont have time, and I have a family. I have to take care of my old parents and children


    Li Mazi said nothing and grabbed the gold-toothed man, dragging him forward. Behave. If you dont, we will cook you with fried meat and bamboo shoots.


    The gold-toothed man was mad, but he couldnt do anything else. When we got in the car, he kept his head turned to one side and didnt look at us. Li Mazi was puzzled and asked me, Why do we need to drag Gold-toothed with us?


    I have a n. When the timees, he might save us. I smiled.


    Li Mazi was more bewildered. He scanned the gold-toothed man from head to toe.


    This dude is such a coward, and he doesnt lookpetent at all. How could he save us? Oh, is the n to let him die in our stead?


    When the gold-toothed man heard this, his face turned tense. He gazed at me.


    I shook my head. Of course not. You guys have to be smart when the timees. I think theres a problem with Mr. Qin.


    The other two were perplexed. What kind of problem?


    I just smiled mysteriously. Theres no need to ask. Youll know shortly.


    They looked pensive but gave me a nod.


    Soon after, we arrived at the Qin familys house. It was a massive European-style manor with gardens, swimming pools, gyms, and other facilities. It was hard not to notice the western-style building in the middle. I could only imagine howvish this familys living standard was!


    The gold-toothed mans servile sickness resurfaced. He began to praise how luxurious and high-end this ce was and that only the people like Mr. Qin could live in this ce.


    Although Mr. Qin ignored the gold-toothed man, it didnt affect the number of tteringments he made. I felt somewhat ashamed.


    After we entered the manor, an old man wearing a ck tuxedo approached us. Mr. Qin referred to him as his housekeeper.


    The first thing the housekeeper did was report Qin Minghaos situation to Mr. Qin. Qin Minghao had woken up only once today. He ate something, then returned to sleep.


    Mr. Qin asked indifferently, Did Qin Minghao hurt himself again?


    The housekeeper answered, No, he did not. We have him tied tightly.


    Mr. Qin nodded. Thats good, then.


    The housekeeper was surprised when he saw Li Mazi and I. Sir, who are they?


    The gold-toothed man came closer and said, Uncle Lin, let me introduce them to you. They are two formidable otherworldly merchants. They are top experts, even for the Zhang familys standard.


    The housekeeper gave us a sheepish smile. Apparently, he didnt buy it. He didnt even greet us.


    The old man clearly disdained us!


    At the same time, I disliked the gold-toothed man even more. This time, he didnt introduce us as members of the Zhang family. He just made aparison and put some distance between the Zhang family and us.


    The gold-toothed man was really cunning. It seemed we had to be very careful when we worked with himter.


    Housekeeper Lin didnt look at the gold-toothed man. He continued his report. Today, the Oldest Young Lady and the Second Young Lady were taking care of him. The Second Lady is really filial. She cried a lot and I couldntfort her.


    I understand, said Mr. Qin. Illfort her.


    We then reached the house. The bright and sparkling decorations in the corridor almost blinded me. Although I had seen some rich peoples houses on TV, when we finally stepped into one, I felt shocked by howvish the ce was.


    Inside the luxurious building were two gorgeously dressed girls, who added depth to thevish interior. The girls looked like they were in their twenties. They let their hair down and looked as beautiful as flowers. Their auras were noble, and they looked like typicaldies from a rich, noble family.


    One of them gave me a deeper impression. She wore a pair of ck-rimmed sses. Her face was small but round, and her eyes were big. When we entered the living room, we saw her crying. I guessed she was the Second Young Lady.


    The other girl was very different from her. She looked mature with hints of being a bad girl and had an ample bosom. Her head was lowered, and she yed with her phone the entire time. She didnt look at us when we entered the room.


    Mr. Qin faked a cough. The Oldest Young Lady reacted. She lifted her head to look at us. Then, she took her sister and came toward us.


    She walked directly to Mr. Qin and acted as if she didnt see us.


    Second Uncle, youre finally home. Ive been waiting here all day. It was so boring.


    Mr. Qin frowned. Given her position and what she had just said, Mr. Qin felt embarrassed. No matter what, the person they were taking care of was their father.


    But Mr. Qin didntment on it. He nodded silently then turned to me. Let me introduce you. These are my brothers daughters. Shes the eldest, Qin Tiantian. This is his second daughter, Qin Sisi.


    Qin Tiantian looked at us and gave us a short Hello as a greeting.


    Qin Sisi looked at us and pleaded, You two are otherworldly merchants, right? Please save my father. Hes not doing well!


    Qin Tiantian, on the other hand, sounded arrogant. They dont look much older than me. Have you ever dealt with any otherworldly item before?


    Li Mazi was enraged. I thought that if there were no guards in this room, he would have pped the girl already.


    The girl mocked us for being young and not having experience in dealing with otherworldly items, which made me furious as well. I decided to ignore her.


    It was the most frustrated I had felt during my career as an otherworldly merchant!


    But the Second Lady, Qin Sisi, did not give me a bad impression. That was why I decided to make Qin Tiantian jealous.


    I smiled at Qin Sisi and said, Dont worry. Ill do my best.


    Qin Sisi nodded.


    Li Mazi understood what I meant. His silver-tongue entered into action. I had heard that the Second Young Lady of the Qin family was beautiful and that shes really, really kind-hearted. Shes the most nobledy in Anhui. Now that we have finally met, I can say that its most definitely true.


    Li Mazi praised Qin Sisi nonstop, which made the girl feel embarrassed.


    Qin Tiantian was so angry that she started fuming. As we had praised only Qin Sisi, she became jealous. She gritted her teeth and eventually fumed at Li Mazi, Are you here to work or to flirt? Im telling you, dont even think about picking up my younger sister! Were a rich, noble family. If we didnt need your help, you guys would have never had the chance to set your foot into such avish vi! You better have some self-knowledge.


    Li Mazi immediately sniggered. Oh, Im sorry! Please forgive me. Its just that when I saw the Second Young Ladys beauty, my heart started racing, and I couldnt refrain myself from giving her nicepliments.


    He had sessfully angered Qin Tiantian, making her jump in rage.


    This war ended with us being victorious.


    I thought to myself,<em>Poor little girl, youre just a little goblin while Li Mazi is a great demon. You have no chance against him!</em>


    Mr. Qin seemed to sense the tense atmosphere. Thats enough. Mr. Zhang, Im taking you to see my brother.


    Qin Sisi blurted, Right, right. We should see my father first. Thats more important.


    Then, she walked in front of us to show us the way to the room.


    Qin Tiantian shot us a hostile look. She ignored us and continued ying with her phone.


    I also ignored her and followed the others to the room.


    Several security guards stood in front of the room. They all wore sunsses and held walkie-talkies. One of them opened the door for us and said that Qin Minghao was sleeping. Then, he reported Qin Minghaos situation to Mr. Qin.


    Mr. Qin nodded to him, then took us into the room.


    The room was quite clean. However, there was a big hole in the middle with a lot of mud and dirt around it. It didnt match the otherwisevishly decorated room. A filthy, unshaved man sat on a leather couch. He was tied with several ropes.


    I frowned. Qin Minghao isnt dangerous now. Why did you tie him?


    Mr. Qin exined, We dont know when my brothers sickness will resurface again. If we tie him, at least, he wont be able to hurt others or himself.


    Qin Sisi agreed. Its true, greatmaster. When my father gets sick, hes super strong. Four or five strong men cant hold him down.


    I looked pensive and gave a nod. Mr. Qin, is this the pit where he got the long sword?


    Mr. Qin nodded.


    I immediately jumped into the pit and looked around. The edges of the pit werent even, and I could see bloodstains on the cement.


    I walked to Qin Minghao and lifted his hands to observe them. I couldnt help but take in a deep breath. He dug this pit with his bare hands?

 Chapter 320: Catching the Culprit

    Chapter 320: Catching the Culprit


    Mr. Qin sighed. Im afraid so. My brother used a pair of scissors to break the cement floor.


    Qin Sisi began to sob. My poor father. His body has not always been good. Why did he have to go through all this


    Eventually, she pulled Qin Minghaos hands and cupped them around her face.


    Mr. Qin strode forward and pulled her aside. Dont stand close to your father. Hes sick!


    Wheres the sword? I asked. I want to see the so-called Thunder Sword.


    Mr. Qin walked to the East wall and opened a built-in wardrobe. The Thunder Sword was in there.


    I walked over and observed it.


    The Thunder Sword looked ordinary. It was just amon sword from ancient times, just a little broader.


    It was covered in mottled patina, but the de was sharp. There were stains of bright red blood, which looked rather frightening.


    Although it was rusted, I could still see some patterns carved on it. They lookedplex and worn out, but I could recognize a lightning strike.


    <em>Thunder Sword... That must be why the sword got this name, right?</em>


    I gently rubbed the sword. My hand was then stained with the smell of blood. I couldnt get rid of it.


    Mr. Qin, how many people has this sword hurt since it appeared?


    Around seven people, answered Mr. Qin.


    I was startled. How did it manage to hurt so many people?


    When the security guards saved my brother, they didnt dare to counterattack. The de cut some of them. Also, there were those four people from the Zhang family that killed themselves. So, thats seven in total.


    I looked pensive but nodded. I see. Anyway, I want to wait here with Qin Minghao alone. Is it okay?


    Mr. Qin denied my request immediately. No, if we look at the time, my brother will soon wake up. If you wait here alone, it will be dangerous.


    I smiled. I want to perform a secret technique to strengthen Qin Minghaos soul and protect it from harm.


    Thats good, then. Mr. Qin exhaled in relief. But its not safe for you to stay here alone. Qinghu, stay here and assist Mr. Zhang. Everyone else, please wait outside.


    I alone am enough. I rejected Mr. Qins good intentions. This technique is special and cannot be used in front of outsiders. Otherwise, the effect wont be as good. I hope you will understand.


    Its too dangerous, Mr. Qin kept on insisting. I cant just let you risk your life. We have to ensure your safety.


    <em>Sure, my safety! You just want to keep an eye on me!</em>


    Feeling helpless, I shook my head. In that case, Second Young Lady, why dont you stay here and give me a hand?


    Qin Sisi was a little surprised. B-But I dont know what to do.


    Its okay. I smiled at her. Just do what I say.


    Mr. Qin said, dark in face, Sisi, please stay and help Mr. Zhang. If you encounter any danger, just call us. Well be right outside.


    Qin Sisi nodded. Okay. As long as my father can be cured, I dont mind putting myself in danger.


    After they left, I stood in front of Qin Minghao and took a good look at him.


    Qin Minghao exuded a sour smell, and his clothes were stained with dirty dabs and even grains of rice. If someone were to see him like this, the Qin familys image would copse.


    Qin Sisi became curious when she saw me standing still. Is something the matter?


    I turned and said to her, Miss Qin, can you help me with something?


    Qin Sisi nodded. As long as it can help my father, Ill do anything.


    I smiled. Very good. Later on, just help me tell some lies. Itll help us find the culprit.


    Qin Sisi gawked at me in disbelief. Mr. Zhang, what do you mean?


    I answered vaguely, Dont worry. You just have to do as I tell you. Your Second Uncle will ask you what I have done in this room. Youll tell him that I have drawn a strange pattern on your fathers body, that you saw your father open his eyes, and that he said something to me. However, you werent able to hear clearly what he told me.


    Qin Sisi looked at me with a strange expression. I was a little worried as I didnt know what she was thinking.


    She looked at me like that for half a minute. Then she asked, Do you suspect my Second Uncle?


    I was startled. Although this little girl looked naive, she wasnt stupid. On the contrary, she was rather smart.


    I had just said something vague, but she still managed to catch the hidden meaning in my words.


    Still, I could only deny it. Girl, youre overthinking it.


    Qin Sisi kept silent. After a while, she sighed and said, You dont need to deceive me. Im taking Psychology sses at school, and I can see what youre thinking. You think that Im a crybaby, dont you?


    I almost choked on my saliva. At first, this youngdy indeed gave me the feeling of being a crybaby, but I didnt expect her to be this smart.


    Since I couldnt hide it anymore, I simply said, Youre right. I did have such thoughts before. Anyway, are you willing to help me?


    Qin Sisi nodded. Yeah, I am.


    Thats good. I gave a wry smile. If I had known that she was a smart girl, I wouldnt have asked her to stay.


    Mr. Qin, who was waiting outside, lost his patient and knocked at the door. How are you doing?


    Almost done! I answered then smiled at Qin Sisi. Its up to you to catch the culprit.


    Qin Sisi nodded.


    After I opened the door, Mr. Qin restlessly came in. He exhaled in relief when he saw Qin Minghao sleeping. Its lucky that my brother hasnt awakened yet. Otherwise, you would be in trouble


    Then, he asked me, Are you sure you can deal with this?


    I should be fine, I answered.


    Mr. Qin patted my shoulder. I could tell that he was a little nervous.


    Mr. Zhang, Ive asked my people to prepare a room for you. You should stay here tonight. If you dont feelfortable, Ill book rooms in a hotel for you.


    I could see that Mr. Qin was testing me. If I chose to stay in a hotel, it was because I knew who the person behind all this was.


    Thus, I chuckled and said, I have never seen such a luxurious manor in my life. I want to stay here.


    Mr. Qin said, Thats good, then. If you need anything, just ask the servants and maids in the house.


    Then, he excused himself and said that he had a lot of work to do.


    Qin Sisi brought us to the third floor and showed us to our guest rooms. She was very gentle. If you need any help, just call me.


    No problem. I smiled.


    After Qin Sisi left, Li Mazi and the gold-toothed man couldnt wait anymore and circled around me. What did you see in there? Are you really sure you can deal with it?


    Iughed. I was just deceiving them. I didnt discover anything.


    The gold-toothed man and Li Mazi gawked and began to sweat. Little Brother Zhang, youre joking, right? Is this really the time to boast? Arent you afraid of losing your life?


    I red at them. You two are really cowards. Dont worry. Im one hundred percent confident that I can solve this.


    The two exchanged looks, then smiled bitterly. You just said that you didn''t discover anything. Now, youre suddenly one hundred percent sure you can solve this? Who are you trying to fool?

 Chapter 321: Threatening the Gold-Toothed Man

    Chapter 321: Threatening the Gold-Toothed Man


    I red at them again. Who am I trying to fool? For starters, were going to fool a ghost tonight.


    They couldnt help but shiver and looked at me oddly. I ignored them and stretched my sore back. I thenid on the couch and said, Rest. Well be very busy tonight.


    Young Master, youre really something. The gold-toothed man sighed and slumped on the sofa. All right, well die together then.


    I drifted into sleep, and when the gold-toothed man woke me up, it was dark outside.


    I rubbed my drowsy eyes and walked to the window to look at the dim moonlight. I sneered, Its dark outside. The moonlight is dim and theres a strong wind. The perfect night to kill someone.


    The gold-toothed man asked, What do you mean? Are you going to kill someone?


    I turned to look at him. Ask Qin Sisi to bring us some food. Im starving.


    Cant we just call the maid? the gold-toothed man asked.


    I shook my head and said, No, it must be delivered by Qin Sisi. Theres something I need her to do for me.


    The gold-toothed man was reluctant, but he still went to find Qin Sisi. He returned shortly after, but without Qin Sisi.


    Wheres Qin Sisi? I hurried to ask him.


    Every night, Qin Sisi goes to a nearby five-star hotel to have dinner. You want her to bring you food? Dream on. Were lucky if we can get something to eat at all, said the gold-toothed man reluctantly.


    He had a point. For a rich family like this, almost all of their meals were cooked by chefs from famous restaurants.


    We didnt have a choice. We had to wait until Qin Sisi came home as I needed to ask her to do something.


    Qin Sisi returned shortly after. Moreover, the security guard behind her had a thermal box in his hands; she had brought us dinner.


    I liked Qin Sisi even more now. Although she was a nobledy from a wealthy family, she didnt look down on us.


    Qin Sisi greeted us and asked her guard to ce the delicacies on the table.


    Qin Sisi had paid special attention to our dinner. There were main courses, side dishes, and even sweet dessert and fruits.


    Please forgive us for not being well prepared for your stay, said Qin Sisi.


    Oh, no, no, youre very well-prepared, the gold-toothed man said. Miss, you were very attentive.


    Then, he began to wolf down the food.


    Qin Sisi smiled gently. If you need anything, directly see the housekeeper. Make yourself at home. Then, she prepared to leave.


    I strode forward to stop her. Second Young Lady, please wait. Can you help us with one thing?


    Qin Sisi turned to me, her expression odd. What do you need help with?


    I waved my hand. Its nothing big. You just need to stay here with us to prove that weve always been in our room.


    This time, Qin Sisi looked even more puzzled than before. Arent you going to stay in my house?


    I smiled. Of course, were going to stay in your house. Otherwise, how could we catch the ghost? Were just not going to stay in this room.


    Qin Sisi thought then nodded. All right, Ill help you.


    With her intelligence, I knew that she could guess my intentions.


    Did your uncle ask you what I did in your fathers room?


    Qin Sisi nodded. He did. I answered him as you told me.


    I smiled. Thats good, then.


    Im going to see the housekeeper for the keys, Qin Sisi said. Which room do you want to stay in?


    I immediately stopped Qin Sisi. You cant see the housekeeper.


    Qin Sisi was confused and looked at me. If we dont see the housekeeper, how could we open the room?


    Dont worry. I have a n.


    I suspected that Mr. Qin had bribed the housekeeper. They were probably watching our every move. If we alerted them, they could be even more cautious, which would be disadvantageous to us.


    The gold-toothed man and Li Mazi were surprised. With questioning faces, they said, What are you talking about? We dont understand whats going on.


    I lowered my voice. I think that Mr. Qin is the one who has plotted against his brother. Actually, its not that hard to tell. At first, he didnt even want us to join this case. Ever since I decided to ept the mission, he started to look tense. He doesnt look like a brother that cares about his older brother.


    Impossible. The gold-toothed man was scared. If so, we cant keep digging into this...


    I looked at him oddly. Why not?


    Are you stupid? The gold-toothed man jumped in rage. If you bust Mr. Qin, even if he falls off his horse, he can still easily destroy us! He could just find some assassins to get rid of us. Youre ying with fire here. Not only youre going to put yourself in danger, but well also end up in trouble!


    The gold-toothed man quickly collected his stuff and prepared to leave.


    But how could I let him go? I jumped forward and stood in his way. He wanted to force his way out, but I grabbed his shoulder and pinned him to the wall. If you leave, Ill tell Mr. Qin that you suspect him and that you want to go to the police station to report this case.


    Y-You Youre despicable! The gold-toothed man almost cried. Young Master, can you just ignore me? Let me go, please. I dont want to die just yet.


    I smiled. I still need you. I dont want you to leave just yet.


    Li Mazi sighed and walked forward. Gold-toothed, youre not sincere enough. Were all in the same boat. If you ditch us, well not end well, either.


    The gold-toothed man slumped on the ground. Sigh! Im sure I owed you money in my previous life.


    Iughed and let go of him. It seemed I had himpletely under my control this time. All right, Gold-toothed, follow us. Were going to buy something.


    The gold-toothed man lifted his head to look at me. What do you want to buy?


    Youll find out soon. I turned and smiled at Qin Sisi. Miss Qin, you shoulde with us, too. Just think of it as keeping an eye on us. Im sure Mr. Qin will ask you about uster.


    Qin Sisi nodded. All right.


    We left the manor. We went to the bustlingmercial street and asked Qin Sisi to take us to a nice coffee shop.


    Actually, I had noticed that someone was stalking us. If I wasnt wrong, it was one of Mr. Qins men. It was the right decision to bring Qin Sisi with us.


    If we hadnt taken Qin Sisi with us, the other person would have kept a close watch on us, which would have troubled me and made it harder to y tricks.


    Qin Sisi brought us to the coffee shop, which happened to be the one where we had met Mr. Qin. It was called, Yipin Store.


    After ordering three cups of coffee, I asked, Gold-toothed, go to the hospital now to buy something for me.


    Ah, what is it? The gold-toothed man was curious enough.


    Liquid ether, I said. Secretly sneak out of here. Do not let that outsider see you


    Outsider? The gold-toothed man looked at me strangely. Obviously, he didnt know what I meant by outsider.


    I helplessly shook my head. Are you even a member of the Zhang family? Someone has been following us, and you havent noticed?


    The gold-toothed man was startled and turned to Qin Sisi. Why would your security guards keep an eye on us?


    Qin Sisi reluctantly sipped her coffee. Do you need to ask? Of course, it was my Second Uncles doing. He wants to know what youre going to do.


    The gold-toothed man burst outughing. Second Lady, you also doubt your Second Uncle?


    Qin Sisi put her cup down. I doubt everybody, including you.


    I was surprised. I couldnt believe that the elegant and naive-looking Qin Sisi was this thoughtful.


    This woman wasnt simple. It seemed I shouldnt tell her anything the next time. I had to keep my eyes wide open around her.


    At the same time, that narrow-minded, quick-tongued Qin Tiantian wasnt someone we had to worry about.


    The gold-toothed man said, Okay, you guys wait for me here. Im going to get it now.


    The gold-toothed man scanned the room. Then, his eyes fixed onto the air vent. He quickly climbed inside and crawled his way out.


    I turned to Li Mazi. How are your lock-picking skills?


    Li Mazi smiled. Still good. I need to count on them when my antique trading career no longer feeds me.


    Do you need to prepare any tools? I asked.


    Li Mazi said, I need to take a look at the door first.


    Then, our eyes turned to Qin Sisi.


    Well, my houses locks arent easy to pick, Qin Sisi said. We use digital smart locks. Moreover, they connect to a cell phone. You need a password to open it. My phone can solve the password thing. However, you have to get through the sensor chip of the lock.


    Li Mazi looked pensive. All right, Im going to prepare some tools.


    I nodded. Li Mazi also crawled out of the room through the air vent.


    Now, only Qin Sisi and I were left in the room. The atmosphere turned a little awkward. I rarelymunicated with beautiful women. Moreover, she was a rich woman from a wealthy family.


    She and I didnt have anymon topics to talk about, so we just sipped our coffees in silence.


    Shortly after, I had already finished my cup of coffee.


    My gaze shifted from my empty cup to Qin Sisis cup; it was still half full.


    She elegantly stirred her cup, and since I was somewhat embarrassed, I picked up Li Mazis cup of coffee and stirred it as well.


    Haha. Qin Sisi looked amused and gave a sweet smile.


    I was puzzled. Why are youughing? Do you think that I look disgraceful while I drink coffee?


    Qin Sisi waved her hand. No, its not that. Actually, I admire you because you can live your life freely.

 Chapter 322: Two-Faced Little Young Lady

    Chapter 322: Two-Faced Little Young Lady


    I chuckled. What do I have that you admire? Youre just trying tofort me, arent you?


    Qin Sisi shook her head. Do you really think we live such a happy life?


    Isnt that the case? Your father left you so much money that even if you dont work, you can live a pretty good life.


    Youre wrong, Qin Sisi said in an annoyed tone. Completely wrong.


    Oh, really? I asked, How am I wrong? Do you want to tell me?


    Its not as simple as you think, Qin Sisi said. Youve only seen our pretty side; you dont know about the internalpetition within our family. The richer you are, the more people desire your wealth. To defeat thepetitors, our rtives are willing to do everything! I dont feel a bit of warmth in this family. Our siblings and cousins dont even want to recognize their family members. Ive tasted more hardships during these days than the four years Ive spent in university.


    Really? I smiled. Do you want me tofort you or tell you the truth?


    Qin Sisi lifted her head to look at me. The truth, of course.


    I think you have a lot of free time to ponder since your stomach is full. Take a look at the low-ss people in this society. Every day, in order to fill their stomachs, they have to work hard. They even have to put away their dignity and pride just to make ends meet. Do you think they dont feel pressure? They have pressure from their families, from life, and other stuff. What exactly is your pressure, losing some money to your family members? If you can get over it, you wont feel that much pressure.


    I didnt expect you to be this philosophical. Were more alike than I thought. Qin Sisi smiled.


    At this moment, she looked really mature and calm,pletely different from the naive girl from before. It seemed she was just pretending earlier. This girl was really intimidating!


    It was to be expected, though. She had to learn how to deceive others to survive in this type of family.


    In front of them, I try my best to be low-key. I have neverpeted against them for benefits. Thus, in their eyes, Im just a naive girl that isnt worth their time. Qin Sisi sighed. I have never thought ofpeting against them on anything, and I dont like it when my elders hand over the properties for me to manage. I just work hard on the one-third acre ofnd I have. Do you think that I dont have a bright future? Im just a young girl, though. No matter how hard I try, I cant umte as much wealth as my seniors.


    I shook my head. No, you did well. Sometimes, you just cant force things and have topromise. This is how life works.


    She smiled. You still dont understand, right? Im a young girl whos not suited to manage apany. I need an agent. So


    She lifted her head, and her watery eyes met mine. You seem capable enough.


    I choked on my coffee.She wants me to be her agent?


    I didnt like this kind ofpetitive way of living. That was why I decided to open an antique shop, which was not considered a career with a bright future, either.


    I rejected Qin Sisis request without a bit of hesitation. Second Lady, what are you talking about? Im just a small merchant with nopetence. Im sorry. Im afraid Im going to disappoint you.


    Qin Sisi seemed impatient. Actually, I think you should think about it carefully. As my agent, of course, your position and identity will be different. Perhaps one day, Ill fall in love with you! And then, if youre interested in the Qins wealth, you and I can join hands. Perhaps we can win some fortune.


    I was speechless. The good impression I had of Qin Sisi had vanished. I could tell it wasnt that she didnt want power. She was just subtle and knew the art of hiding and preying. Her ambition was bigger than anybody.


    But it wasnt her fault. Living in such conditions, it would be weird if she could maintain her pure, kind heart.


    I gave Qin Sisi a sheepish smile. Im sorry, but Im not interested in this.


    All right. Qin Sisi forced a smile. Different backgrounds will lead to different thoughts. Theres no one right or wrong in this world. I just hope that your impression of me wont be affected by what I had just said.


    I said, No, I totally understand you, Miss.


    I know that you dont understand me. You called me Sisi earlier and now youve changed back to Miss. Do you find me that scary?


    Qin Sisi made me speechless. The atmosphere turned awkward, and I felt that I had no power to retort in front of this girl.


    While thinking, I heard noises from the air vent, which cheered me up. Those two had arrived just on time.


    The gold-toothed man fell off the dirty vent, his face ashen. Which bastard designed this vent? Only a puppy can go through it!


    Iughed. Did you get the ether?


    He produced a small ss bottle from his chest. Is this enough? This is a drug thats prohibited on the market. I had to use my connections and paid twenty thousand renminbi for it. Youll have to reimburse me.


    Qin Sisi waved her hand. Dont worry. Ill pay you back.


    Ah, thank you very much, Second Lady.


    A bottle of ether of that size would cost three hundred renminbi at most. The gold-toothed man wanted to use this opportunity to rip off Qin Sisi.


    I wondered,Is there another man whos more cunning and fraudulent than Gold-toothed?


    Shortly after, a man who was more cunning and fraudulent than him really arrived. Li Mazi came with an old and strange machine. I guessed it was an unlocking machine that somepany had discarded.


    Li Mazi bragged about the tool and said that it was a professional device used by CIA experts. He had bought it from the ck market and had to make use of a lot of his connections to get it. More importantly, he had paid one hundred thousand renminbi for this shabby tool.


    They both thought that Qin Sisi was a naive girl, someone easy to fool. At this time, I admired Qin Sisi even more for her ability to pretend. These two old foxes werent able to see through her.


    I asked them to clean up, and after confirming that we left no traces, we rushed back to the Qins house.


    After returning, Iid on the bed and rested to regain myposure and strength. I asked Li Mazi to stand guard.


    Qin Sisi excused herself. She said she had to call her Second Uncle.


    Suddenly, my heart throbbed. Qin Sisi was much more cunning than I had thought. What if she was a spy that Mr. Qin had sent to watch us? What should I do then?


    Qin Sisi read my mind and smiled. Dont worry. Im loyal to my father in this matter. If I wanted to report everything to my uncle, I wouldnt have shown you my real face. Youre the first man that has ever seen my true colors.


    I forced a smile. All right.


    But I was still worried. From her tone, it seemed Qin Sisi was interested in me.


    After she was gone, I couldnt rest my mind. I always felt that the three of us were like three pawns that yed in her hand.


    After half an hour, she returned to the room and said, My Second Uncle asked me what we talked about in the coffee shop. I told him that we were discussing how to expel the evil spirit that lives in my fathers body. He told me to keep an eye on you guys. He doesnt want you guys to do anything strange to my father. My Second Uncle has investigated your background, but he couldnt get much information.


    I smiled. Thats good then. So your Second Uncle can rest his mind now?


    Qin Sisi said, Wed better be careful. My uncle is a cunning, savvy man. What if he has doubted me?


    Yeah, shes right. This is really troublesome.I made up my mind and decided to never mingle with this sort of big familys internalpetition again. This time was an exception because of my grandfather.

 Chapter 323: The Homicidal Maniac Ghost

    Chapter 323: The Homicidal Maniac Ghost


    That night, Qin Sisi stayed with us. I told her to report to her Second Uncle that Qin Minghaos sickness would resurface at around 3:00 AM in the morning. And that, before that time, we would be resting to regain our strength andposure. He was not to send anybody to disturb us during this time.


    It was like a sedative to Mr. Qin. It allowed him to calm down and be at ease.


    Weid on the bed and listened to the time tick by as we waited for the night toe!


    Soon, it was around 11:00 PM. I listened to see if there was anymotion in the corridor. Everything was clear.


    I then woke Li Mazi up and asked Qin Sisi to keep the watch while Li Mazi opened the door of the opposite room.


    Li Mazi gave me a nod and discreetly tiptoed away. It didnt even take him five minutes to unlock the room. We quietly made our way out of our room and followed him.


    Before I left, I closed all the windows of the room and opened the bottle of liquid ether.


    Liquid ether would evaporate at room temperature, so I was sure that the assassin would fall into our trap. After everything was ready, we held our breaths and hid in the opposite room.


    To avoid being discovered, we didnt even turn the lights on. The entire room was engulfed in darkness, and the world around us was dead silent.


    I adjusted my breath as I carefully listened to themotion outside.


    Everything was quiet, too quiet.


    For some reason, thisplete silence gave me a sh of premonition. I felt like something very unfortunate was going to happen.


    It was around midnight, and people were fast asleep at this time. If Mr. Qin wanted to send someone to murder us, that person should have arrived already.


    But what if Mr. Qin knew that we were prepared and decided to change his ns?


    I started to panic.


    Even Qin Sisi noticed the abnormality. She mumbled to me, Is something wrong?


    Dont talk. Just wait for a while, I advised.


    After waiting for around ten more minutes, we began to hear faint sounds from the corridor. It sounded like someone was walking very slowly.


    The assassins here. Li Mazi became restless.


    I furrowed my brows. Things were that simple. Since Mr. Qin knew that we were a problem, I was sure hed sent an elite assassin, and a professional assassin wouldnt create such loud footsteps.


    However, it was also possible that the assassin was experienced and was deliberately making such noises to deceive us. Perhaps he wanted us to think that it was a maid or servant walking in the corridor.


    Guessing from the footsteps, that person didnt stop at our room but continued to move back and forth.


    Its almost midnight. Who would run around like this?


    There were only two possibilities. The first possibility was that the person wasnt an assassin. He was just a senior servant in the manor.


    The second possibility was that the cunning assassin wanted us to lower our guards.


    The footsteps echoed in the corridor as the person wandered back and forth twice. Eventually, they stopped at the door. I could even hear the tiny click the door made when they carefully turned the knob and pushed the door open.


    Damn, it was really an assassin!


    I pricked up my ears to catch anymotion.


    To our surprise, after the door was pushed open, we didnt hear any more sounds. This cheered me up as the other party seemed to have stepped into my trap. The liquid ether had worked.


    We had waited like that for more than ten minutes, which made me believe that the other person had been anesthetized. Without further ado, I opened the door and took a good look at the room opposite us.


    The door to the room was open, but no lights were switched on. It was still a mass of pitch-ck darkness. But then, I saw a dark figure squatting on the bed. The figure was motionless.


    It seemed the other person hadnt had time to turn on the lights when they were anesthetized by the ether. I was ted and quickly switched the lights on.


    But as soon as I rushed in, the shadow abruptly jolted up. Ive finally got you. Ill avenge my eight thousand brothers!


    After the shadow said that, I felt a cold wind rush toward my neck.


    I was frightened and instinctively jerked backward. Whats going on?!


    Although I had retracted my neck, I still felt something reeking of blood pass above my scalp. It cut several hairs off my scalp, leaving a wound on my head.


    Run! Hurry! Qin Sisi hissed and grabbed my arm. We rushed outside the room.


    I knew my n had failed as that person was well-prepared and didnt faint. I didnt say anything and immediately dashed out of the room.


    As soon as I reached the door, the assassin started chasing after me. His hand wielded a long sword that danced in the air. I could even hear the sounds of friction created by the de as it crossed through the air.


    Still running for my life, I turned my head around to check.


    At first nce, I shivered in fright. It was no assassin! It was Qin Minghao!


    Since Qin Minghaos body was controlled by the departed soul, it exined why the ether didnt work on him.


    Damn it!I cursed under my breath.


    Qin Minghao held the Thunder Sword and approached me. Both of his eyes had turned sparklingly red, and his long hair flew even though there was no wind. The murderous aura that exuded from him was absolutely shocking. He looked really terrifying.


    Who locked the corridor door?! Qin Sisi screamed in shock.


    I immediately turned to the door at the end of the corridor. Sure enough, it was really locked. In other words, we could only move around in the corridor on the second floor.


    All of a sudden, I realized that Li Mazi and Gold-toothed werent following us. My heart sank one more time.Did something bad happen to them?


    When this thought popped in my head, my scalp went numb. I didnt hesitate to scream, Li Mazi, Gold-toothed, where are you?!


    At this moment, the door of the opposite room opened. Gold-toothed and Li Mazi craned their heads and looked around. I was speechless; I had been worried for nothing.


    Li Mazi saw me screaming, so he hurried to ask, You two, why did you run so far away?


    I watched Qin Minghao, who was approaching us, and cursed, What else can we do besides running away? Hurry, seize the time and think of a solution!


    Li Mazi said, You guys, get in! Its safer to stay in this room!


    Then, Li Mazi retracted his neck.


    Qin Sisi was scared and kept holding onto my arms. Her voice shivered, What should we do now?


    We didnt have the time to think. We could only fight Minghao head-on as all my magical tools were in the room opposite us.


    I thought I was dealing with a human assassin tonight. The fact that a departed soul could appear before us was out of my expectations.


    Left with no choice, I could only pick a mop nearby. I had to stall Qin Minghao and find the opportunity to get past him and enter the room. We would be safe then.


    A cold, mechanical voice escaped from Qin Minghaos throat. You forced Yu Ji to kill herself. You plotted against my brothers. Haha, I want to take revenge. I want to take revenge for them!


    Then, he raised his sword and aimed at the crown of my head, forcefully hacking down.


    I was shocked. A blood-red glow emitted from the des sharp edge. I was sure that my mop couldnt fight against it. It would be easily cut off.


    Damn it, what do I do?


    Qin Sisi was scared out of her wits. She could only beg Qin Minghao to let us go.


    My eyes then fell to the door that locked the corridor. It was a sliding door with exquisite hollow carvings. I hoped that it could block the Thunder Sword.


    Immediately after I got the idea, I pulled Qin Sisi. We backed off until we reached the hollow, sliding door.


    The Thunder Sword in Qin Minghaos hand violently shed and hit the sliding door. Immediately after, the sliding door created a sharp noise of metal rubbing on metal. It also increased the time the sword took to sh down.


    I seized this chance to pull Qin Sisi. We slid under Qin Minghaos arms to get away from him.


    The moment we slidaway. I heard the sound of the sword hitting the ground. The sound was deafening and made my scalp go numb. I turned to check, and I saw that the rigid granite floor now had a neat crack. It was terrifying.


    I gasped.Just how strong is he? He was able to sh that deeply into the ground! If he hit a human being, he would cut them into two...


    Luckily, we had escaped his attack. I didnt dare to join the fight again or counterattack him. Actually, I didnt even have time to think about it. I pulled along the petrified Qin Sisi and headed toward the room where Li Mazi was taking shelter.


    While running, I screamed so that Li Mazi would hear me and open the door.


    Soon after, the door was opened. Li Mazi craned his neck out of the room. He even held two kettles in his hands. It looked like he was about to go out to rescue us.


    After seeing that we had managed to flee from the enemy, he was ted. He encouraged us to quicken our pace.


    However, as soon as Li Mazi finished speaking, he suddenly noticed something. He cried out, Oh no! Not good!


    Right after that, he mmed the door shut with a loud thud.


    You bastard! What have you done?!


    My heart raced frantically. I knew something unexpected had just taken ce.


    The moment his door was about to close, a small bottle flew out of the opposite room and hit the door. The ss bottle shattered, and wisps of white mist rolled up, swirled, and emitted from the bottle.


    I lowered my head to see what had happened. Then, I fell into despair.


    It was the ss bottle of ether we had prepared.


    The ether in the bottle hadnt vtilized all. I guessed that only half of it had evaporated. When the bottle broke, the ether began to change. It turned into a white mist that started to permeate the ce.


    I took a deep breath. My head had a throbbing pain which almost made me copse on the ground.


    We had been yed big this time. If we inhaled the wisps of ether in the air, we would pass out, which would allow Qin Minghao to kill us with ease.


    I was too worried to advance any further. I could only stop.


    At the same time, I turned my head around to check. Qin Minghao had just started to chase after us. He was dragging his Thunder Sword on the ground. He looked like a brutal and intimidating evil god.


    I roared and threw the mop toward Qin Minghao. There is no time to think. Hurry, get in that room!


    The closer we got to the room, the stronger the smell of ether. I wasnt sure if I could stop myself from inhaling it. I gradually started to have problems breathing, and my head turned cloudy.


    This was the only chance we had. I tried my best to knock on the door. Li Mazi, open the door. Quickly, open the door!


    I could still hear Li Mazi and Gold-toothed quarreling inside. It seemed they were fighting over the matter of whether they should open the door for us.


    I cursed then banged on the door harder. Qin Minghao was running toward us. There was no time.


    The door hadnt opened yet, but Minghao had already raised his Thunder Sword high in the air!


    My body leaned against the door as I couldnt stand up anymore. I slumped and slid along the board of the door. My consciousness blurred, and I eventually lost my senses.


    Before Ipletely fainted, my only thought was Would I be dismembered into pieces?


    While half-conscious, I heard Li Mazis voice, Little Brother Zhang, wake up. You have to wake up! We dont have time!


    I battled to open my drowsy eyes. At this time, I felt a head-splitting pain.


    I tried to suppress my agony and sat up. Wheres Qin Sisi? Are you guys all right?


    Li Mazi answered, Were okay. You two are okay, too. If we werete by just a few seconds, your leg would have been gone.


    I felt a sharp pain at my leg. I tried to take a look at it, and I was frightened.


    There was a very deep cut on my thigh; blood was everywhere. Although my wound was wrapped, the pain didnt ease at all.


    How long was I out? I asked.


    Justy back, said Li Mazi. I guess its been around three minutes or so.


    Were still in danger, I told him. Im sure Qin Minghao will sh and hack on this door!


    As soon as I said that, a low thud came from thevishly carved wooden door. Needless to say, it was Qin Minghao trying to break the door.


    Li Mazi was enraged. He red at me. Stop jinxing it!


    Then, he ignored me and hurried to push a couch toward the door to block it.

 Chapter 324: Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation

    Chapter 324: Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation


    I scanned the room and saw that Gold-toothed and Qin Sisi were lying on the ground, still unconscious.


    When I saw him, I remembered that Gold-toothed had almost killed us just now. If I didnt have this wound on my thigh, I would have rushed toward him and strangled him.


    Help me! Li Mazi screamed for help. I turned my head and saw that thevishly carved wooden door was cracked. The swords de had followed the crack and was looming above Li Mazis head. If it werent for the couch that stopped the de, Li Mazis head would have been cut in half.


    The smell of piss exuded from Li Mazi. Our fellow had wet himself due to the fright.


    The door wasnt going to block him for long. Soon after, we smelled the ether. The smell got into the room through the cracks in the door.


    I called Li Mazi, Li Mazi, watch out! The ethers getting into the room!


    Li Mazi was frightened. What should we do? This fellow will break the door soon. Damn, Im starting to feel dizzy.


    Urine can detoxify it. I had read this theory on the inte, but I didnt know if it would work. However, at this moment, we had no other option. We could only use the dead horse as a living one.


    Urine I just pissed myself. Let me borrow some of yours! Li Mazi cried.


    Qin Minghaos Thunder Sword hacked the door again. The door now had a cross-shaped crack in it. One of his arms had also reached into the room. Li Mazi helplessly had to carry the vanity that was next to him over his head to fend off the attack.


    I didnt have anything to lose, so I pulled and crumpled the bedsheet, peeing on it. After I was done, I threw it to Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi wasnt afraid of hygiene and directly shoved the fabric into his mouth. The scene was so disgusting that I almost vomited.


    However, it wouldnt work for long; we had to escape. I nced at the window. We could only jump from there.


    I crawled toward Gold-toothed and Qin Sisi then pped their faces to wake them up.


    Although Gold-toothed had almost gotten us killed, I couldnt just watch him die. No matter what, I was the one who had dragged him into this mess.


    When Gold-toothed was awakened, he was dumbstruck and looked around in a daze. Eventually, he hissed, Oh shoot, whats going on? Who chopped the door?


    I was enraged and kicked him. Stop pretending to be dumb! Why didnt you open the door for me?


    The door? What door? Gold-toothed looked dumbstruck. Young Master, you cant me me. Ive always done what you have told me to do.


    Li Mazi still had the piss-stained bedsheet in his mouth but managed to talk. It seemed like Gold-toothed was possessed at the time. He suddenly jumped on me. Little Brother Zhang, I think you suffer from excessive internal heat these days. Your piss smells terrible.


    Since I saw that Li Mazi couldnt endure it anymore, I went over to help him and pushed the sofa. Listen to me. You guys should seize the time and jump through the window! If he gets in here, nobody can escape!


    Gold-toothed didnt think much. He jerked up, grabbed Qin Sisi, and ran toward the window to jump down.


    However, as soon as he came to the window, he was stunned. He gazed at something below and stayed still.


    Qin Minghaos Thunders Sword shed the door one more time. This time, the door had almost copsed. The mans intimidating face poked through and watched the panicked people in the room.


    We didnt have time to linger; we had to go!


    I screamed, Gold-toothed, why are you still here? If you want to die, just die by yourself!


    Gold-toothed quickly returned. He grabbed a stool and pounded it at Qin Minghaos head. Then he yelled, Young Master, y-youd better go and see for yourself.


    I knew that Gold-toothed had a reason for saying that, so I cautiously went to the window. I needed to see the situation down there.


    When my eyes saw the things underneath, I was dumbstruck.


    There was a horde of people that stood outside the window. There were around thirty of them. It was horrifyingly strange that they were all headless. There was nothing above their necks. They all wore armor and were drenched, with water dripping from their bodies. They were scurrying over the grass as if they were searching for something.


    We were caught between a rock and a hard ce.


    I cursed under my breath, realizing that I had been too careless while dealing with Mr. Qin. I didnt expect that he would borrow a knife to kill us.


    Mr. Qin was a scary person.


    I turned to see if Qin Sisi was scared out of her wits, but her appearance made me doubt my worldview.


    She looked really calm, and I didnt see any trace of fear across her face. Her bright eyes watched the bunch of ghosts below. It seemed like she was contemting something.


    I was bewildered for a while. Then, I panicked. Qin Sisis bravery was not normal. Was she possessed too?


    This thought of mine scared me. Subconsciously, I moved away from Qin Sisi to take a better view of her.


    Her bright eyes gazed down. Except for her somewhat stunned face, she didnt look strange. There were no signs of possession.


    Strange, what happened to her?


    Li Mazi and Gold-toothed couldnt hold it anymore. They screamed and asked why I was standing dumbstruck instead of finding a solution.


    Right after, I heard Gold-toothed shriek. I turned and saw a horrible cut on his arm, and blood was gushing out.


    Also, half of Qin Minghaos body had gotten through the broken door. He was wiggling around and trying to get into the room. If the other two didnt use a big table to push him out, Qin Minghao could have jumped in and killed all of us already.


    I didnt have time to consider if Qin Sisi was possessed or not. I walked forward and shook her shoulders. Hey, wake up! Is this the time to be daydreaming?!


    Unexpectedly, it worked. Qin Sisi lowered her head and asked, What are you doing?


    What can I even do? Take the chance and save yourself. Dont you see that your fathers going to mince us and make dumplings out of our meat?


    Qin Sisi nced at the door. She finally returned to her senses. Im sorry. I just dozed off.


    Dozed off? I almost choked on my saliva. I had to cough in order to clear my throat. I really cant tell if youre smart or stupid.


    Li Mazi eximed, This young miss is really something!


    Qin Sisi asked, Why dont you ask me what I just saw in my dream?


    Miss, we dont have the time. If I asked you about your dream, I guess we would all be doomed. Quickly, take the chance and escape through the window!


    No, I think you must listen to me. Ill tell you what I saw in the dream. Qin Sisi looked at me, her eyes stern. I saw a strange old man.


    A strange old man... I couldnt help but shudder. I turned to look at Qin Sisi. You mean The strange old man who came here and helped your family solve the paranormal activities fifteen years ago?


    Yeah. Qin Sisi nodded and said, That old man said that he was your grandfather.


    I was so excited that my body shivered. What did he tell you? That wasnt a dream. My grandfather wasmunicating with you through his spirit


    Li Mazi and Gold-toothed couldnt resist it anymore. They cried unceasingly. Brother, you can talkter! We cant put up with him any longer.


    I bellowed, Dont give up! Well be done right away!


    Then, I turned to Qin Sisi. What did my grandpa tell you?


    Your grandfather asked me to tell you that fifteen years ago, he set up the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation. It still can work, but someone has messed it up. As long as you can repair the formation, it can subdue Xiang Yus soul, Qin Sisi said.


    The Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation The familiar terms lingered in my head. Subconsciously, some images began to resurface in my brain.


    After the rain, a rainbow appeared on the horizon. A bored teenager sat at the door. In front of him was a big puddle of rainwater. His bright, yearning eyes looked into a far distance.


    He was waiting for his grandfather, the only family he had, toe home and give him a little surprise.


    He lived with his grandpa. Every day, his grandpa would go to the mountain to find herbs. It was their familys livelihood. When he came back, he would bring home a wild animal. Enjoying his grandpas wild treat was the teenagers happiest moment of the day.


    Eventually, he heard footsteps at the gate. The boy smiled with happiness. He threw the pencil he was ying with and hurried to wee his grandfather.


    The bony old man gave the boy the wild animal he had trapped. It could be a pheasant, a rabbit, and when he was lucky, he could even trap a deer. That was why the teenager was fed healthily even though they lived in a rural, remote vige.


    While the old man was cooking, he would lovingly watch his grandson. This grandson of his was the only hope he had in his life.


    Hey grandson, do you want to eat deer meat?


    Of course I do, the teenager answered.


    Good, then. Ill teach you an incantation. If you can learn it, Ill let you eat this roasted deer meat.


    Grandpa, why are you so stingy? Why do I have to learn an incantation to eat roasted meat? Its not like Im going to take an exam!


    You have to learn at school to ensure that you make a decent living. As for these incantations, you have to learn them to ensure your life. The old man smiled and said, Come, read after me High power in the stars. Adapt to nonstop changes. Expel the evil, bind the demon. Save a life and protect the body!


    Although the teenager didnt know why his grandfather was trying to teach him the incantation, in order to eat the roast meat, he earnestly repeated after the old man.


    Almost every day, the teenager had to read and learn those obscure incantations until they were carved deeply in his head. Then, his grandpa would teach him new ones. The teenager was taught roughly one thousand incantations, and he remembered every single one of them. He wouldnt forget them for the rest of his life. However, until now, he didnt know how they worked or how to use them.


    The boy didnt understand why his grandfather had done this, but today, he finally did...


    That teenager was me, and the old man was my grandfather!

 Chapter 325: The Plan From Fifteen Years Ago

    Chapter 325: The n From Fifteen Years Ago


    I took a deep breath and searched through my memory for the incantation to activate the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation.


    High power in the stars, adapt to nonstop changes. Expel the evil, bind the demon. Save a life and protect the body!


    Before I could finish reading the incantation, I heard a loud thud. Then, the door broke. The sofa, the chair, the vanity, and all the stuff we had used to block the door were pushed aside. Li Mazi and Gold-toothed stumbled and rolled back to me. Little Brother Zhang, its over! We should just jump through the window to escape!


    I didnt move and continued reading the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Incantation.


    Gold-toothed and Li Mazi anxiously shouted my name. They thought that I was so scared that I couldnt move.


    However, I didnt stop. Even though the Thunder Sword was about to hack on my head, I wasnt scared. My eyes were calm and cold as I continued to chant.


    Gold-toothed and Li Mazi stared at me in disbelief. They immediately grabbed a stool and a table to fend off the sword. At the same time, they screamed and asked Qin Sisi to wake me up.


    Qin Sisi stood still and looked at me worriedly, unsure as to how to proceed.


    The room was a mess, and the nging noise resounded unceasingly. Eventually, Gold-toothed could no longer hold back Qin Minghao, and the sword cut his butt cheek. He slumped on the ground and cursed, Youre killing me!


    At the same time, I finally finished reading my incantation. I got on my knee and ced my right hand on the ground. I thundered, Seven Fiends return, the messenger of the Netherworld will pick you up!


    After the spell wasplete, I could feel the temperature in the room drop sharply. A strong wind blew from underneath. It billowed Qin Sisis skirt.


    Crack!


    A burst of noise came from downstairs, growing louder and louder.


    The Thunder Sword stopped in midair as Qin Minghaos body suddenly froze. Then, we all watched Qin Minghao act as if he had lost his mind. He clutched his head and rolled on the ground in agony. Dont, please dont!


    I exhaled and wiped the trickle of blood from the corner of my mouth. I tried to get up from the ground, but my body was too feeble. I almost stumbled.


    Qin Sisi grabbed me and supported me. Are you all right?


    I smiled at her. You should worry about your father.


    Then, the two of us turned to look at Qin Minghao.


    At this moment, Qin Minghao was emitting a cold light, which then formed into a human shape that struggled angrily.


    Needless to say, it was Xiang Yus departed soul. He was trying to escape from Qin Minghaos body.


    But no matter how hard he tried to wiggle, he couldnt get out of Qin Minghaos body. It was as if there was a formidable power that had tied him down and prevented him from leaving the body.


    More and more screams of agony came from outside the window. I rushed over to check. The headless ghosts were running around madly. Simrly, there was a strong force that had grabbed them; they couldnt escape. Eventually, all of them were sucked into the ground and disappeared.


    After a few minutes, Qin Minghao stopped wiggling. Heid still on the ground, without moving an inch.


    Qin Sisi used the sponge from the broken sofa to fill the cracks in the door. She did that to prevent the ether from permeating the room.


    After everything was done, we finally slumped onto the ground.


    While wrapping his wounds, Gold-tooth screamed, What the heck just happened? Which bastard promised to keep me safe and sound? My butt hurts like hell. I need an exnation.


    Its good that you survived. I shot Gold-toothed a fierce nce. Gold-toothed covered his butt andid on his stomach, asking Li Mazi to bandage him.


    I turned and saw Qin Sisi absorbed in her thoughts. In principle, my grandfather should have talked to me. Why did hemunicate with Qin Sisi instead of me?


    There were two exnations for this. The first was that it wasnt convenient for him to contact me, and I didnt know the particr reason for it.


    The second was that Qin Sisis physique allowed her tomunicate with my deceased grandfather. That was why he had done that.


    I then turned to look at Qin Sisi and asked, Qin Sisi, do you wear anything that facilitatesmunication with the other world?


    Qin Sisi thought for a while then grabbed a small pendant from the chain on her neck.


    The pendant wasnt made of gold or silver. It looked like it was made out of stic. I asked Qin Sisi to hand me that thing. She didnt hesitate and handed it to me.


    After giving it a first nce, I immediately understood. It was a small pendant made of rhino horn. It was square and rough, and had the word Lin carved on it.


    I guessed it was one of the Nine Daoist Sybles, which included the words, Lin, Bing, Dou, Zhe, Jie, Zhen, Lie, Qian, and Xing. The rhino horn itself was powerful enough to connect to the Netherworld. Since it was carved with one of the formidable Nine Daoist Sybles, it made it easier for my grandfather to contact her.


    Qin Sisi was curious. It was because of this pendant?


    I gave her a slight nod.


    However, I was a little puzzled. She was the daughter of a wealthy family worth billions of renminbi. Why would she wear such a cheap essory? It didnt match her status.


    I asked Qin Sisi, Why do you wear this cheap gadget?


    Qin Sisi exined, The day after that strange old man left, my father gifted me this pendant and asked me to keep wearing it. He told me that I shouldnt take it off even when I bathe. I know my father. When he believes in something, he is right. Otherwise, he wouldnt have achieved what he has today. Thats why I always wear this pendant, said Qin Sisi.


    I gave her a smile and felt the pendant in my palm. I understood the situation. Fifteen years ago, my grandpa had already predicted the events that wouldhappentoday! He knew that I would join this case.


    In order to protect me, he had arranged everything, including the formation and this cheap pendant.


    What else did my grandfather tell you? I asked.


    Qin Sisi waved her hand. I dont think its convenient to talk about it right now.


    Why is that? I didnt understand.


    Because theres a traitor among us, muttered Qin Sisi.


    A traitor? I was startled. I had never considered this possibility.


    I was really curious. Qin Sisi, what makes you say that?


    Qin Sisi said, Our n was tight-knit, and my Second Uncle couldnt have had the time to prepare a counterattack. But now, it turns out that he knew our n very well and was thoroughly prepared. The sliding door at the corridor was locked and all the people were gone. There were no guards on duty, either. It seems my Second Uncle was sure he could kill us tonight. Thats why he acted explicitly.


    Qin Sisis analysis made me feel restless. She had a point as there were a lot of suspicious things about tonight. Aside from a traitor, there wasnt a second exnation.


    The sliding door at the corridor shouldnt have been locked, but it was locked tonight.


    The security guards had to follow Qin Minghao twenty-four hours a day, but none of them were on duty tonight.


    Everything was done for a sole purpose  to kill us.


    I took a deep breath and looked at Qin Sisi, Who do you think the traitor is?


    Qin Sisi was a smart youngdy, and I believed in her intuition. Her assumption would be more urate than mine.


    Qin Sisis eyes scanned us. Eventually, her eyes stopped on Gold-toothed.


    The person Qin Sisi suspected matched with the person I had in mind. I also thought that Gold-toothed was the one most likely to sell us out.


    I knew Li Mazi well, and even if he was beaten to death, he wouldnt betray me. There was no need to discuss Qin Sisis intentions, either. No matter what, we were trying to save her father. She had no reason to harm him as Qin Minghao was her only backer.


    As such, Gold-toothed was most likely the traitor!

 Chapter 326: Who Is the Traitor?

    Chapter 326: Who Is the Traitor?


    When Gold-toothed saw that we were looking at him, he became flustered. He tried to crawl up from the ground and said, What do you mean? Youre doubting me? You guys really have no conscience! If it werent for me, you would have died already!


    Li Mazi stormed forward and pinned Gold-toothed to the ground, pping him in the face. You bastard! I already knew you were a weirdo, but I didnt think your heart was this ck.


    Gold-toothed cried like a kid. No, it wasnt me! Yet, I know you wont believe me, so just get over with it and kill me!


    I frowned. Gold-toothed didnt look like he was pretending.


    If it wasnt him, was the traitor Li Mazi?


    My skeptical eyes scanned Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi didnt know if he should cry orugh. Little Brother Zhang, are you doubting me?


    I shook my head. Perhaps one of the ghosts was watching us?


    Qin Sisi suddenly remembered something. She scurried toward Li Mazi and pushed him to the ground. It seemed she wanted to strip him.


    Li Mazi was startled. Hey, what are you doing? Stop!


    Qin Sisi said, Dont move. Im afraid you may have some eavesdropping equipment on you.


    Then, she unbuttoned his shirt and ripped off the button at the top. Guys, look at what Ive got.


    I held the button in my palm and studied it.


    It looked really ordinary. It wasnt much different from other buttons. However, it felt a little heavier than normal ones.


    I suddenly thought of something. I immediately dropped the button and stomped on it. The button cracked open, and I saw a chip inside it.


    It was a mini eavesdropping device.


    When Li Mazi saw it, he gawked. Whats going on? I didnt know about this.


    Gold-toothed had turned from a loser to a winner. While Li Mazi was still baffled, he pushed him to the ground. You little bastard! You were a thief using other people of being thieves!


    Then, he didnt waste time and pped Li Mazi twice. Kiddo, you were really sly. Not even I noticed that you were a traitor!


    Li Mazi cursed and struggled. However, Gold-toothed was a burly man with a big belly, and a bony man like Li Mazi couldnt throw him off that easily. In the end, Li Mazi used his finger to poke at the wound on Gold-tootheds butt cheek, causing him to shriek in pain.


    Youre really a monster! Gold-toothed covered his butt and cursed. The scene looked really funny.


    Li Mazi turned to me. Little Brother Zhang, you dont think that Im the traitor, right?


    I said, Of course not. I just think that someone installed that equipment on you and you didnt even know it.


    Qin Sisi nodded in agreement. This button is not really eye-catching. Normally, you wouldnt even button up to that button. Thats why you didnt notice anything.


    Li Mazi patted his head. I think Ive got it. I know who installed this monitoring equipment.


    The three of us turned to Li Mazi and asked in unison, Who?


    Its that damn oldest daughter! No wonder she was trying to strike a conversation with me; she was up to no good. After all, she doesnt seem like that kind of easy woman.


    My sister? Qin Sisi was shocked. No, thats impossible.


    Li Mazi said, Do I have any reason to deceive you?


    Qi Sisi sighed reluctantly. Although my sister is arrogant and likes to boast, I cant believe she went as far as to harm our father. Im very disappointed.


    I have to find her and settle this ount, Li Mazi said. She almost killed us and tried to divide us. How devious of her!


    Then, he prepared to leave the room.


    I hurried to stop him. Dont act rashly. Even if you go to them, they wont admit anything. Instead, theyll stop pretending and aim at us directly.


    Li Mazi wore an annoyed face. What should we do then? Swallow this insult?


    I said, We can only swallow this insult for now. Qin Sisi, please tell me what my grandfather told you.


    Qin Sisi nodded. That old man told me that the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation is about to expire. It wont be able to resist it for long. As such, we shouldnt count on it too much. Tonight, you should go to the Wu River to meet him. He has something he wants to tell you.


    I couldnt help but feel excited. I was going to see my grandfather tonight! It was my chance to clear up all of my doubts.


    Qin Sisi squatted and checked Qin Minghao, sighing. Im not sure if my father can endure it to the end.


    Iforted her. Dont worry. My grandfather had already foreseen the events that took ce today. Hes a meticulous man, and he wouldnt make mistakes while arranging things.


    Qin Sisi nodded. I hope so.


    I guessed that Qin Sisi had an aching heart at this moment. Her closest family members had plotted against her and tried to kill her.


    Although she was strong-minded and looked capable, she was still young. She definitely felt aggrieved right now, and she needed someone tofort her. If someone seized this chance, they could capture her heart.


    Qin Sisi supported Qin Minghao to the bed and checked on him, her expression sad.


    You should call Mr. Qin and report what happened Although, I think he already knows.


    Qin Sisi nodded and took out her phone to call Mr. Qin.


    Li Mazi and Gold-toothed were still furious, so I had to tell them that they shouldnt disclose that we discovered the monitoring equipment. We couldnt afford to have a fallout with Mr. Qin yet.


    Although they were angry, their minds were still sane. They gave me a confirming nod.


    After pondering for a while, I said, My grandfather said that someone messed with the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation. The formation lost its power, and the souls it was subduing managed to escape.


    Li Mazi looked at me and thought. You mean that someone thats talented enough to break the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation is working for Mr. Qin?


    I nodded. Yes, but we dont know how strong the person standing behind Mr. Qin is. Do you think its rted to the Longquan Vi?


    When I said that, Gold-tootheds face turned purple in rage. Damn, Im sure its those bastards! I knew they wouldnt give up. Since they cant attack us openly, they used this underhanded method! I must find them and ask them for an exnation!


    What exnation? I couldnt help but chime in. Do you have any evidence that the Longquan Vi is behind this? Without evidence, dont talk nonsense!


    Gold-toothed was dispirited and sighed. Damn it, this is reallyplicated. Young Master, if you catch the culprit alive, I dont think theyll be able to deny their crimes.


    I nodded. How can it be so easy to catch the culprit? Theres Mr. Qin standing in-between. Mr. Qin himself is a giant wall. We cant deal with this matter alone.


    While we were discussing, Qin Sisi stopped us and said that Mr. Qin wasing.


    We shut our mouths immediately. Right after, we heard the sliding door at the end of the corridor rattle hard. Guards, open the door!


    Qin Sisi and I rushed out. We saw Mr. Qin and Qin Tiantian anxiously shaking the sliding door.


    Qin Sisi asked, Uncle, you dont have the key?


    Mr. Qin answered, Who told you to lock the door? Its dangerous. Wheres my brother?


    Didnt you ask the guards to lock the door? There are no guards on duty here, Qin Sisi answered.


    What? Mr. Qin sounded fearful. No guards on duty? Sisi, are you all right?


    Then, he carefully checked Qin Sisi from head to toe.


    Qin Sisi answered, Im all right. Mr. Zhangs really powerful. He expelled the soul that was attached to my father. To him, it was as easy as flipping his hand.


    Mr. Qin heaved a sigh of relief. Thats good, then. But we cant forgive those guards. Housekeeper, where are you?


    Iming, the housekeepers voice came from downstairs. Shortly after, he appeared. In a panting voice, he said, Sir, did you call for me?


    Uncle Lin, where are the guards? Mr. Qin asked.


    Ah, they said that they were afraid that they would bother the experts while they were doing their work, so they decided to wait outside. They said to inform them if something were to happen. Theyll immediately run to help the experts


    Then, Uncle Lin looked around and said with a smile, However, I dont think their help was needed. These two experts are really powerful.


    I cursed him in my head.This bastard is really good at acting. Hes telling lies, and hes not even blushing or blinking. He looks reallyfortable, as if things really happened as he said.


    I said, All right, we dont need to talk about this anymore. Although those guards messed up, they didnt do it on purpose. Its fine as long as they pay more attention in the future.


    Mr. Qin insisted that we should punish those guards to vent out our anger.


    I just smiled as I didnt really care about his empty words.


    After Mr. Qin asked Uncle Lin to open the sliding door, he smelled ether in the air.


    He knew what it was but still asked, Whats this smell?


    Oh, thats ether, I said. We wanted to use the ether to subdue Qin Minghao, but it didnt really work.


    Qin Tiantian, who always had her face in front of her phone, suddenly snorted, Yeah, right!


    Li Mazi intervened, Miss, what do you mean?


    Do you think I dont know why you used the This brainless youngdy wanted to expose the events, but Mr. Qin stopped her from babbling.


    After seeing the mayhem inside the room, he pretended to look worried and even called a doctor to check on our bodies. If I didnt know in advance that Mr. Qin had a ck heart, I would have thought he was really worried about us.


    After learning about the whole situation, Mr. Qin wore a concerned face. What should we do tonight?

 Chapter 327: Ghosts Crying at the River Bank

    Chapter 327: Ghosts Crying at the River Bank


    Tonight, I will arrange the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation. Im sure I can seal the Hegemon King of Western Chu one more time.


    Mr. Qin exhaled in relief. Thats good, then.


    However, I could catch a gleam of his restlessness. He didnt want me to arrange the formation.


    He was unaware of the fact that I couldn''t arrange the formation even if I wanted to; I only knew the incantation, after all. However, I wasnt too worried since I would meet my grandfather tonight. I was certain he had a method to deal with the Hegemon King of Western Chu.


    At the same time, I felt that something dangerous wasing. Mr. Qin would try to disrupt our ns, so we had to be cautious. He would not attack us directly, but he was definitely capable of borrowing a knife to kill us.


    If he could use Qin Minghao to kill us, it would be perfect for him.


    After Mr. Qin understood the situation, he excused himself and said that he had a lot of work rted to the familys business.


    I knew he was going to find the person behind the curtain to discuss their countermeasure. They wouldnt let us work efficiently tonight.


    If we gathered info about the real culprit, we could prepare in advance and increase our sess rate. As such, I asked Gold-toothed to discreetly follow Mr. Qin to see if we could discover who that person was.


    Gold-toothed clutched his butt. Do you think I can still move with my wounded butt?


    He had a point as he had wounds on his butt and arm. It wouldnt be convenient for him to do the stealthy work.


    Qin Sisi said, I know some private detectives. I can ask them to help us.


    I was surprised.How does Qin Sisi know private detectives? What did she use them for?


    I guessed it rted to the secrets of their business.


    Qin Sisi ignored my odd expression and made a call, sealing the deal in a few sentences.


    When the ambnce arrived, I asked Li Mazi and Gold-toothed to get their wounds wrapped. Qin Sisi and I werent hurt, so we nned to tie up Qin Minghao.


    However, when the two descended the stairs, I heard Gold-toothed call my name. He asked me to check something down there.


    I was flustered and wondered if we had made a mistake.


    I immediately rushed downstairs.


    What happened? I asked Gold-toothed.


    Gold-toothed and Li Mazi looked fearful as they gazed at a corner outside the building. I immediately went over there to check. There was a pile of ck things. It looked really bizarre.


    I took a deep breath and went closer, jerking back right after.


    The dark pile of things was actually a horde of dead mice. They were in different stages of rotting. Some were dried, while others were shriveled.


    The doctor and nurses from the ambnce also came over to see. When they saw the dead mice, they started to discuss boisterously.


    It was strange, though. How could a big manor like this have so many dead mice?


    Soon after, a group of guards came. They were Qin Minghaos bodyguards. They dismissed us and cleaned up the pile of dead mice.


    Li Mazi asked me, What happened to those dead mice?


    I sighed. I activated the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formationst night, and it required soul energy. Theres no doubt that those mices souls became fuel for the formation. However, the energy from those mice cantst long. Im afraid the formation will lose its power tonight.


    For the whole day, we stayed in thevish building and did nothing.


    I patiently waited until night fell. I couldnt suppress my excitement and thought about how I could finally see my grandfather.


    Qin Sisi spent the day taking care of Qin Minghao, who was no longer possessed. During the day, he woke up once. However, his body was feeble and his mind wasnt sane. He ate some liquid food then slumbered again.


    The guards wanted to stay to protect Qin Minghao, but Qin Sisi asked them to leave. Without a doubt, those guards were Mr. Qins people. As such, she was worried that they would kill Qin Minghao.


    Qin Tiantian didnt bat an eye at her unconscious father. She didnt even stay in the manor. Gold-toothed told me that he saw a man driving a Ferrari pick her up.


    I guessed this family was nothing to her. Only money mattered to her.


    After I had lunch, I asked Qin Sisi to call the detective she hired to check if he had discovered who the culprit was.


    However, we soon discovered that something bad had happened. The detectives phone was off. All of us guessed that Mr. Qin had detected him.


    It could be a good thing that the detective hadnt found anything. If he did find something, Mr. Qin would definitely kill him to shut his mouth.


    Qin Sisi was worried and didnt know what to do. I could onlyfort her and ask her not to worry. After seeing my grandfather, Ill learn of Mr. Qins evil n. Then, we would be able to save the detective.


    Qin Sisi was still very worried. It appeared that she didn''t believe in me; she just kept silent.


    When night fell, I asked Qin Sisi and Gold-toothed to stay and take care of Qin Minghao. Since I was worried that Mr. Qin would send his assassins to kill them, I asked Qin Sisi to get two trustful guards to stay with them.


    I then brought Li Mazi with me to the Wu River.


    The Wu River still emitted a pungent smell, and there was a lot of trash floating in the water. A cold wind blew over, which chilled us to the bone.


    We stood on the river bank and looked around, waiting for my grandfather to show up.


    However, after a whole hour of standing there, we still hadnt seen my grandpa. I was worried as I knew that the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation wouldntst for a long time. If Qin Minghao went crazy again, Qin Sisi and Gold-toothed would be in grave trouble.


    Although they had two guards with them, those guards couldnt help much.


    I waited restlessly. I felt Id go crazy if my grandpa didnt appear.


    Hey, Little Brother Zhang, look over there. Whats that? While I was deep in thought, Li Mazi suddenly spoke.


    I was startled and followed his line of sight. Then, I saw many ck things floating and bobbing on the Wu River. There was nothing there just a moment ago.


    What are those? I took a better look and discovered that those things had a round shape.


    Theyre human heads! Li Mazi shrieked. Damn it, why are there so many human heads here?


    When I heard him, my heart skipped a beat. The heads formed a mass of darkness in the river. The scene was rather shocking.


    Although it wasnt bright, we could still make out their faces under the hazy moonlight. They all looked gloomy and lifeless, but their eyes were filled with resentment and hate.


    I recalled the headless ghosts we saw yesterday in the yard. If I wasnt wrong, these heads belonged to those headless ghosts.


    It seemed the formation had lost its power. The resentful souls were now back.


    This is not good. We have to go back! Qin Sisi cant fight against Qin Minghao.


    I called Li Mazi and prepared to head back.


    However, when I reached out to pull him, I discovered that something was wrong. No matter how hard I tried to pull him, he didnt budge an inch.


    I checked his face, and his expression gave me a scare.


    Li Mazis mouth was wide open, and his eyes had rolled to the back of his head; he stood on the tip of his toes with a faint smile on his face. From time to time, he would also rub the corners of his mouth.


    I knew he was possessed. I was startled, but I quickly got myself together. I had to expel the evil from Li Mazis body.


    But before I could take action, I heard something twittering. I tried to have a closer look at Li Mazi.


    To my surprise, there was a rat lying on Li Mazis head. That rat was ck with bright eyes. It raised and wiggled a small paw as if it was showing me the way.


    I recognized it instantly. It was Senior Shus life-bound rat! Why was it here?


    The life rat looked healthy, which proved that Senior Shu was also fine. He had recovered well.


    Also, Senior Shu couldnt be more than five kilometers away from his life-bound rat. So, he had to be nearby. If the small rat was motioning us the way, it could mean only one thing  Senior Shu was nearby. He was waiting for us!


    It turned out Li Mazi was controlled by the life-bound rat.


    I was ted and said to the rat, Little rat, did Senior Shu send you to us?


    The rat nodded happily. Then, an unclear voice came from Li Mazis throat. Follow me.


    Very good. Take me to Senior Shu.


    Li Mazi took the lead while I followed behind him.


    Not long after we departed, ghost cries arose from the Wu River. My heart shivered after hearing the cries, but I didnt think much and just followed after Li Mazi.

 Chapter 328: Battle of Wits

    Chapter 328: Battle of Wits


    I felt restless and worried that Qin Minghao would hurt Qin Sisi once the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation expired. At the same time, I wondered,What does Senior Shu want to do? Why didn''t hee to see me personally? Also, why did he use a rat to lead us here?


    Not long after we had walked along the riverbank, I heard a cold voice. Kiddo, youre really bold. You even dared to ept this kind of business. Arent you afraid of losing your head?


    I was ted. Senior Shu, where are you?


    A shadow appeared from a big tree by the Wu River. The figurended right in front of us. It was Senior Shu.


    I hurried to say, Senior Shu, why did you have to hide like this? I almost didnt find you.


    Senior Shu said, Sigh, why did I have to meet someone like you?


    I wasnt in the mood to chat with him as I was really worried about Qin Sisi.


    I hurried to ask him, Senior, how did you know that I was working on this case?


    Senior Shu fumed, Its all your grandfathers fault. If it werent for him, I would not have bothered to care about you.


    After he mentioned my grandfather, I suddenly remembered the reason why I hade here. I asked, Senior Shu, wheres my grandpa? Did you meet him? He asked me toe here.


    Then, I looked around. My face was full of yearning and longing.


    Theres no need to look for him, Senior Shu said. Your grandfather cante here.


    What? I was shocked. He came to us yesterday.


    Nah, that was me pretending to be your grandfather, answered Senior Shu.


    It was you?! My eyes widened. Why did you impersonate my grandfather?


    Enough with your stupid questions, Senior Shu said. If I didnt pretend to be your grandfather, how could I scare that Qin guy?


    I couldnt understand his point. Why did you need to scare Mr. Qin?


    Senior Shu said, In order to disrupt his n! When he is flustered, we will strike and destroy him.


    Oh? I was still perplexed and studied Senior Shu. Senior Shu, from your tone of voice, you seem very sure that we can deal with Mr. Qin.


    Senior Shu said, Im not really that sure, but its the only way. We can only do our best.


    I looked at him and said, Can you tell me about your n?


    Senior Shu said, When you go back there, you should arrange the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation to lure the expert behind Mr. Qin. That person wille out to deal with the formation


    But... I blushed to my ears and looked at Senior Shu. I dont know how to arrange the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation. I just know the incantation to activate it.


    Senior Shu said, Of course, Im not asking you to arrange the real formation. You just need to pretend a little bit. Then, when the other person shows up to mess with the formation, theyll die.


    I was bewildered and looked at Senior Shu. Without the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation, I cant deal with the other party. How am I supposed to kill them?


    Senior Shu said proudly, Theres something you dont know. The Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation consists of seven extraordinary souls. Their enormous resentful energies are much stronger than that of the Hegemon King of Western Chu! That was why your grandfather used them to seal the Thunder Sword. After the formation is broken, the seven fiends that were sealed will be released. Since they were restrained for a long time, their resentful energies must be even stronger now. If your grandfather appears here, they will tear him into pieces. So, how could he dare toe?


    I was speechless.


    Thats why your grandfather asked me to tell you this. You just need to pretend that youre going to set up the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation one more time. Of course, you have to be credible if you want to fool Mr. Qin. Thats how we can lure the expert behind him. That person will show up to deal with the formation.


    At that time, the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation would have ceased to exist, and that person will actually deal with the fiends. The seven fiends are already full of resentment. And, if someonees to deal with them, Im sure theyll get even crazier.


    I finally understood and gave Senior Shu a thumbs up. Senior Shu, youre really good at calcting things!


    Senior Shu waved his hand. Theres no need to tter me. Im not that good. Your grandfather is the one who came up with all of this.


    I said, Since the formation is no longer working, will the fiends attack Qin Sisi and the others?


    Senior Shu waved his hand again. Of course not. The seven fiends are now asleep. They havent awakened yet. And even if they do awaken, they will need some time to adjust. Only after confirming that the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation is thoroughly broken will theye out. We have to wait until tomorrow, I guess. Tomorrow, you must make Mr. Qin believe that you will arrange a new formation. However, you have to be careful. If the other person learns of our n, Mr. Qin will send his men to trigger the seven fiends to deal with you. If that happens, then even I wont be able to save you


    I nodded. Senior Shu, rx. Oh right, since the formation is no longer working, the Thunder Swords resentful energy will affect Qin Minghao again. How should I deal with him?


    Senior Shu reluctantly took out a talisman from his chest. It looked as if his heart was aching when he handed me the talisman. This is a Soul Subduing Talisman, a high-quality talisman. Chuyi gave it to me. Ive treasured it for several decades and didnt dare to use it. Sigh, now itll benefit you.


    I couldnt help butugh because I found the w in his words. Senior Shu, stop joking. You said youve treasured this talisman for a few decades and that Chuyi gave you this, but it makes no sense. Chuyi doesnt look older than twenty-five. Dont tell me that he knew how to draw talismans since he was born.


    Senior Shu gave me an awkward smile. Kiddo, you know nothing. Do you know about the so-called reverse growth? Chuyi was born old and is getting younger.


    I didnt pay too much attention to his words as he was just talking nonsense. In the meantime, I remembered that Li Mazi was still controlled by Senior Shus life-bound rat, so I asked him to restore Li Mazis sanity.


    Senior Shu smiled. Dont let Li Mazi see me. The less people know about this, the better. No matter what, your life is at stake here.


    I nodded. Senior Shu, dont worry. I wont tell anybody else about


    this.


    Senior Shu exhaled in relief. He turned around and left.


    After Senior Shu left, the life-bound rat on Li Mazis head jumped down and disappeared into the grass by the road.


    Li Mazi almost coughed his lungs out.


    Li Mazi, wake up! Wake up! I waved my hand in front of Li Mazi. Eventually, Li Mazi got a hold of himself.


    Holy crap. As soon as Li Mazi woke up, he yelled, I feel like I fell asleep just now.


    Really? I ridiculed him.


    Li Mazi looked baffled and gave me a nod. Yes. Moreover, I had a strange dream.


    I just smiled. What dream?


    I dreamt that I became a rat. Li Mazi pondered then said, Its really strange. I even wanted to steal something.


    I couldnt help butugh out loud. We should go back. It was just a dream.


    Li Mazi pulled me back. Go back to where? Didnt wee here to meet your grandfather? If we cant find him, we will be doomed when we go back there!


    I met my grandpa, I said. He told me how to set up the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation.


    Eh? Li Mazi was surprised. Howe I didnt know that?


    You just had a nice nap, didnt you? I asked.


    There is something wrong here. Li Mazi grabbed me and didnt want to let me go. No wonder I had that strange dream... Your grandfather bewitched me! Why didnt hee to meet us face to face and had to bewitch me? I really wanted to see a Netherworld messenger!


    I just made up an excuse. The Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation is our familys special technique, and we cant let outsiders know about it.


    Li Maziined. You guys are so narrow-minded! Anyway, did you learn it?


    Of course I did, I said. I had learned it before, so it was just a review for me.


    Li Mazi was excited and didnt doubt my words. We both returned to the manor.


    When we returned to the manor, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Gold-toothed and Qin Sisi were watching over the sleeping Qin Minghao.


    As soon as he saw us, Gold-toothed rushed over to us. How did it go?


    Everything went smoothly. I saw my grandfather, and he told me everything about the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation. Tomorrow, I will set up the formation one more time, sealing the Thunder Sword again.


    Gold-toothed was ted. At that time, well be free to go.


    I asked Qin Sisi, Did your father wake up?


    He woke up once, but his body was too weak and his mind was not clear. He ate something then fell back to sleep.


    Thats good, then. I nodded.


    Li Mazi asked, Will we be safe tonight?


    I shook my head. Im not sure. The Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation is still broken, and the resentful energy in the sword is still there. It might hurt Qin Minghao again, so we should be careful.


    Then, I took out the talisman Senior Shu had given me and stuck it to Qin Minghaos forehead, hoping for the best.


    To avoid any unexpected situations, I asked Li Mazi to get some ck dog blood and soya beans. In case the talisman didnt work, we had to fight Minghao.


    While we waited, Qin Minghao went crazy again. He roared and thundered indignantly. His body struggled so hard that two burly security guards couldnt suppress him.


    Luckily, the talisman worked. The moment Qin Minghao was about to break free, the talisman shed. Qin Minghao screeched and fell back to his bed, no longer moving.


    I exhaled in relief, but I somehow regretted using that talisman. Although Senior Shu liked boasting, he was right about this high-quality talisman How could it be normal if it could subdue the ghost of the Hegemon King of Western Chu?


    Qin Sisi saw my painful look and understood what was going on in my mind. She asked with a smile, How much was that talisman worth?


    I smacked my tongue. That talisman was priceless. It''s not something you can buy with money.


    Qin Sisi smiled at me and raised a brow. I understand.


    I was stunned.You understand? Does she think that Im asking her for a sky-high price...?


    If she wanted to give me money, I would dly ept, so I just kept quiet.


    We waited until the break of dawn, but nothing strange happened. That talisman didnt only have the power to expel spirits, but it could also calm ones mind. I could tell this by watching Qin Minghaos face. He looked much better now, just as if he was a normal, sleeping person.


    Qin Sisi was amazed after seeing the change.

 Chapter 329: The Seven Fiends

    Chapter 329: The Seven Fiends


    It was the break of dawn when Mr. Qin came. His eyes scanned the tidy room. My brother didnt turn crazyst night?


    Qin Sisi smiled. Second Uncle, Mr. Zhang is very talented. Yesterday, he just used a little trick to subdue that soul. Look at my father. I think he will recover soon.


    Mr. Qin ran to see Qin Minghao. After seeing that his brother was all right, he was ted and burst into tears. He held Qin Minghaos hand, and his voice turned hoarse. Brother, youre getting better! This is wonderful. Mr. Zhang, I cant thank you enough. I did doubt your skills earlier, so I hope youll forgive me.


    I just smiled. Dont worry.


    At the same time, I cursed him in my head. His acting skills were top-notch, and his tears could roll whenever he wanted. He didnt look guilty at all!


    If I was him, I wouldnt have been able to do it.


    However, Qin Tiantians acting wasnt as good. She couldnt suppress her emotions, and I could see her worry.


    She was worried that when Qin Minghao woke up, her collusion with Mr. Qin would be revealed. And once it was exposed, she wouldnt be able to keep her position as the oldest daughter of a powerful, wealthy family.


    After Mr. Qin showed off his performance skills, he excused himself and left. Qin Tiantian followed him.


    I went to the window to look. Mr. Qin was quarreling with Qin Tiantian in the yard; he looked very angry. All of a sudden, he pushed Qin Tiantian away and left.


    Although Qin Tiantian was furious, she still followed after him.


    After seeing the two leave, Qin Sisi sighed. She then turned and looked at her father in a daze.


    Anyone in this situation would feel heartbroken and disappointed. No matter what, that was her blood sister. Yet, she was working with an outsider to harm her own sister and father. She didnt care about her family members at all.


    I didnt know how tofort Qin Sisi, so I just asked her to stay and take care of Qin Minghao. I promised her that I would save Qin Minghao at all costs.


    Then, I took Li Mazi and Gold-toothed with me and left.


    Li Mazi went to buy some materials required to set up the formation. Of course, I didnt really need those materials as I wasnt going to arrange any formation; it was just for show.


    Gold-toothed checked around the building and found a spot to hide in to observe themotions around. He had to report anything suspicious to me. I wanted to see if the expert behind Mr. Qin was staying around this ce and if he was preparing something to counter the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation.


    Meanwhile, I held apass and wandered around the building. I said that I would check the geomancy of the ce in order to find the best spots to set up my formation. In truth, I was just walking around and doing nothing.


    Around noon, Li Mazi came back with all the items I had asked him to find. Gold-toothed called me and said that he had spotted a shorty who was busying around the manor. That person was drawing something on the ground. He asked if I wanted to capture that guy.


    Dont act rashly. You should seize the time while hes arranging the formation to run away. Dont let him see you.


    Gold-toothed agreed and returned to me shortly after.


    Next, we had to arrange the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation. I had asked Li Mazi to collect seven skeletons. The first thing we did was find some good ces to bury the skeletons. For each pit, we sprayed around ck dog blood and a handful of salt.


    Then, we encircled the building with a ring of soya beans. I used a red thread to string many coins and ced them around the building. I had prepared more than forty strings, and each of their ends was tied to Qin Minghao.


    None of this was going to work, but if I wanted to deceive the other person, we had to make it look mysterious and extravagant.


    Since he didnt know what I was doing, he would think that I was really arranging the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation.


    Now, we just needed to wait for the night toe.


    While we were setting up the fake formation, I saw some security guards peeping at us, who then made some calls. I knew they were reporting what they saw to Mr. Qin.


    At night, the bright moon hung high in the sky while surrounded by twinkling stars. The manor looked peaceful and beautiful.


    To help with the activation of the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation, I had asked Mr. Qin to turn off all the lights outside the house. I lied and said that it would help boost the power of the formation.


    Mr. Qin did as I asked.


    Mr. Qin didnt leave at night and said that he could help me in case of an emergency. I knew that he wanted to stay over to observe and see if I could actually activate the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation.


    To avoid creating any doubt, I didnt refuse his request and let him stay with us.


    Qin Tiantian didnte. I guessed Mr. Qin was worried that she would expose everything. That was why he didnt let her stay with us.


    Soon after, night fell. It was around 11:00 PM when I began preparing the altar. I then proceeded with the body purification, astral step, and chant of the incantation. I did everything perfectly as if I was a real priest; I didnt dare to miss any details.


    After doing that for around twenty minutes, I finally saw strange things outside the building.


    A gust of wind sent all the dust and garbage up into the sky, making them float around the building for a while.


    Right after that, I heard ear-splitting ghost criesing from underneath the building. The temperature in the vi dropped sharply. It was so cold that I had goosebumps.


    Damn, here theye! Li Mazi suddenly screamed in fear.


    I immediately went to the window to see. I saw several shadows that slowly rose higher and higher.


    Mr. Qin was flustered and shivered. Apparently, he believed that this was the effect of the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation I had arranged.


    Heughed and said, I need to go to the bathroom.


    Then, he left in a hurry.


    I knew that he was going to see that expert to report to him and ask him to activate his own formation to deal with the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation.


    I sneered and signaled at Gold-toothed to follow him. We needed to know what he wanted to do.


    Gold-toothed followed Mr. Qin sneakily. However, he came back shortly after. Sigh, that man ran away too fast.


    I smiled. It seemed our n was going well.


    I stopped what I was doing and went to the window to look outside.


    Those seven shadows were slowly floating up. Eventually, they reached the same height as us.


    We couldnt see their faces, but we could make out their shapes. None of the seven had intact bodies. Most of them had lost their arms or legs, and two of them were headless. It was terrifying.


    Then, they began to fly around the building, screaming and screeching. Revenge! We must take revenge!


    Did you see who sealed us? After flying around for a while, the seven shadows stopped to ask.


    No No I clearly heard a trembling voice that belonged to a freaked-out person. I tried to see who it was but didnt see anyone.


    Hmph! The seven fiends snorted then continued to swirl around the building.


    After the seven fiends left, I saw another shadow hovering at the spot where the seven had been.


    As it was in the far distance, we couldnt see his face clearly. We could only see a vague shadow crawling away.


    Also, when the shadow crawled away, his lower body stayed behind.


    That fellow was cut off at the waist.


    I was scared as I watched him. The shadow also saw me. Immediately, he crept toward me, crying unceasingly. Help me. Help me...


    From his voice, I guessed he wasnt a human but a wandering soul.


    The seven wicked souls had cut this soul into two halves. It was enough to prove how scary they were.


    I couldnt help but gasp.


    The seven fiends soon moved to the back of the building. I immediately ran to the opposite room and watched them through the window.


    They encountered a few ghosts. Every time, they forced the other party to answer their question: Do you know who sealed us here?


    After receiving a negative answer, they would depart, leaving behind the dismembered wandering souls.


    I gasped again.


    As they wandered around, more and more souls were executed. After less than ten minutes, the area surrounding the building was full of crippled souls.


    Although those wandering souls were torn apart, they could still move. Their cut off limbs wiggled unceasingly, and their howls made my hair stand on end.


    I was terrified as the seven fiends had shifted their attention to us.


    My heart throbbed.Damn, they saw us!


    I hurried to pull the others out and closed the curtains.


    We cant let them see us!I was scared out of my wits.


    However, the situation was getting out of control. The seven fiends approached us. The sneers on their faces and their intimidating auras made me tremble.


    Shoot, they found us!


    This aura is familiar. I think Ive sensed it somewhere.


    Youre right. Is he the one that sealed us here?


    Just take him and ask him.


    Hmph, catch him then interrogate him!


    The seven hovered outside the window as they gazed at me.

 Chapter 330: The Villain Showing Up

    Chapter 330: The Viin Showing Up


    Seeing the scene, I hurried to retreat.


    However, the seven fiends had already seen us. Their iplete bodies looked very scary, and their wounds reeked of the smell of blood.


    When I turned to check on the others, I saw that they were also petrified.


    Sure enough, this aura is really familiar, sniggered one of the fiends.


    Do you guys think so too?


    I remember! Hes the one that sealed us!


    Even if its not him, its his rtive!


    Haha, its time to take revenge. Its been dozens of years, and weve all been waiting for this day, havent we?


    Lets kill him! We must make him suffer everything weve suffered a thousand times more!


    My heart shivered as I didnt expect that things would turn out like this. We were in big trouble this time. If even my grandfather was afraid of them, how could I possibly fight them?


    You guys should go first, I muttered. They are targeting me. They wont trouble the rest of you.


    Li Mazi said with a heavy tone, We will advance and retreat together. Im not leaving. Gold-toothed, take Miss Qin with you and run!


    Gold-toothed said, Miss Qin,e with me. You must believe in him. He can solve this.


    However, Qin Sisi gritted her teeth and said, No, hes in this situation because of my family. I cant just run away. The more people there are, the more hands that can help.


    I was a little touched as I didnt expect Qin Sisi to be this righteous. My impression of her had changed again.


    However, right now wasnt the time to y the hero. We were nothing but cannon fodder, so it didnt matter how many of us there were.


    Miss Qin, you should go. I dont want you to make a meaningless sacrifice.


    Qin Sisi was very stubborn. No matter how hard I tried to talk her out of it, she didnt want to leave.


    Gold-toothed also tried to change Qin Sisis mind, but it was useless.


    In the end, he cursed, Screw it. Im not going, either. Although I want to keep my life, I still have my principles. If I leave now, people will curse me for being an ungrateful little bastard.


    Gold-tootheds performance went beyond my expectations. I smiled at him. Gold-toothed, youre nobler than I thought.


    Gold-toothed shrugged and looked at me. Its not like I have a choice.


    Iughed and said to the group, Stay here and try to buy time. Ill find a solution to deal with the seven fiends.


    Then, I hurried to the window while the three of them proactively formed a wall behind me.


    The moment I turned around, I saw the seven fiends plunge toward us. The three behind me didnt hesitate and immediately threw the soybeans they had prepared toward the seven fiends.


    I heard popping noises and saw a sh. With the howling and roaring of the ghosts, the luxurious building had turned into a haunted house.


    I opened the window, craned my neck outside, and roared, Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation, ACTIVATE!


    After my roar, I saw a small tornado rising from the ce where that expert was drawing in the morning. A discernible blue light also shed. It encircled around the tornado.


    I was really happy as my theory was proven correct. That expert hadnt activated his own formation because he was still unsure if I was setting up the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation.


    However, after hearing my roar and seeing the paranormal activities in the house, he was convinced. I guessed he didnt know what would happen once the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation was activated, which made him think that the seven fiends wreaking havoc were part of the activation process!


    After the other person activated his formation, the tornado with blue shes turned into hundreds of waves of air that rushed toward the manor, hitting the seven fiends.


    The waves of air were fast, and they were so strong that they smashed all the windows. It seemed the waves of air didnt only affect the souls but tangible bodies as well.


    I realized that the expert didnt only want to break my Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation. He wanted to kill us all.


    I jerked back and shielded Qin Sisi under my body. Then I thundered, Guys, get down!


    Having worked together in numerous cases, Li Mazi and I understood each other very well. As soon as I screamed, he knew what I meant. As for Gold-toothed, this fellow valued his life more than anything. As soon as I shouted, heid on his stomach even faster than Li Mazi.


    The moment weid down, I felt a strong st of air above my head, which made my scalp go numb.


    The seven fiends were swallowed up by the waves of air, and they tried their best not to be dragged away. Their already mutted bodies were damaged even further in the process.


    In the end, they couldnt endure it anymore. The formidable air current dragged them away, making them fall to the ground.


    Before they could catch their breaths, another wave of energy from the magic formations swept over, aiming at the seven fiends again. The seven fiends were sent flying further away.


    I took a deep breath. This formation was really powerful. It had struck the seven fiends and gave them no time to counterattack. Just how strong was our opponent?! To him, killing us would be as easy as flipping his hand.


    After the attack, the seven fiends became a little translucent, just as if they would evaporate in the next second.


    I heard one of the seven fiends roar angrily, Who did that?


    Who cares. Kill him first.


    The seven fiends were enraged. After just a moment, they turned and lunged toward the magic formation.


    I exhaled in relief. Our n was finally going on the right track. The seven fiends were now going to fight the expert behind all of this. We just had to wait.


    I strongly believed that my opponent and the seven fiends would strike each other furiously and that both sides would suffer. When that time came, we would just need to deliver the final blow and defeat them.


    A voice arose from the formation. H-How is this possible? The Seven Find Soul Locking Formation... Shoot, we fell into a trap!


    Right after that, I saw a group of security guys running wildly outside the manor. It seemed the helpers were trying to run away. However, the seven fiends were enraged, and they quickly entered a security guards body.


    The running guard halted instantly. He turned his stiff neck and gazed evilly at a short man sitting outside the fence of the manor.


    This man was wearing a ck Daoist priest robe with an embroidered tiger on it. He stood arrogantly as he faced the enemy.


    Hmph, you ghosts dare to wreak havoc in front of me?! He snorted. Do you think I cant shred your soul to pieces?


    The guard that the seven fiends possessed replied through gritted teeth, With your little skills? Come and taste our power!


    Then, he stormed toward Shorty.


    Shorty wasnt afraid. He used a set of footwork and started chanting. He controlled the formation to deal with the seven fiends.


    I observed quietly. It seems we have to go there and help them


    Gold-toothed cussed, What?! That shorty wanted to kill us. He deserves to die.


    I shook my head. I mean we have to help the seven fiends.


    Then, I ran downstairs.


    Shorty had arranged a very powerful formation, and I was afraid that the seven fiends wouldnt be able to bear the attacks from his formation. If that happened, our efforts would go in vain.


    I could see that Shorty was an expert when it came to formations. If we destroyed his formation, he and the seven fiends would be even, and they would both suffer.


    When I approached the yard, the possessed guard was fighting against the short man. The short man retreated and activated his formation.


    I nced over and immediately saw through his n. He wanted to lure the seven fiends into the eye of his formation!


    Do you think Ill let you do that? I wont just watch you kill the seven fiends and thene to deal with us!


    I had to destroy that formation before the seven fiends entered it.


    However, breaking a magic formation was no easy task. I had to find the magic tools used to set up the formation.


    I called the seven fiends, You seven fools, listen up! That shorty wants to lure you into the formations eye, where he can kill you easily. Dont let him trick you! You should keep him upied while I destroy his formation. Afterward, we can settle the grudge between us, okay?


    Hmph, young man, youd better hurry, snorted the seven fiends. We dont have time to waste here.


    Okay! I smiled and agreed. It seemed the seven fiends had agreed to cooperate with me.


    The agreement immediately enraged Shorty. You bastards


    I didnt mind him and asked Gold-toothed, Gold-toothed, when he sneakily set up his formation, you were here. You should know where he set it up, right?


    Gold-toothed nodded then brought me to a flower bed. He pointed at it and said, I saw him pluck some grass over there.


    I observed and found some des of grass that smelled strange. I took a closer look and recognized they were Corpse Scent Grass. Corpse Scent Grass could connect the two worlds, so it was often used to arrange formations to summon ghosts.


    No wonder there were so many ghosts in the manor and the surrounding area tonight. It was because of this formation.


    I didnt hesitate and was prepared to pluck all of the Corpse Scent Grass. If I did that, the formation would lose its power.


    Stop! Shorty screamed in fright.


    Youve harmed me over and over again, I scoffed. Do you think that I am so easy to bully?


    Then, I moved toward the flower bed.


    Stop! This time, it was another voice. It was Mr. Qins voice, to be exact.


    I straightened myself and was surprised to see Mr. Qin holding Qin Tiantian hostage, his wicked, red eyes gazing at me. It seemed he had lost his calm.


    Help me! Qin Tiantians face paled in fear as she screamed for help.


    My cold eyes gazed at Mr. Qin. Mr. Qin, what do you mean by this?

 Chapter 331: Family Clean Up

    Chapter 331: Family Clean Up


    Mr. Qinughed like a madman. Kid, Ive experienced all kinds of things, and the number of enemies that have fallen in my hands is too high to count! Yet, I cant believe that I was defeated by someone like you today! I cant ept this!


    As it hade to this, I didnt need to fabricate any more lies. I just sighed. You rich people are really something. You have so much money, but its still not enough for you. You still want more.


    Stop talking nonsense! Mr. Qin thundered furiously. His face twisted, and he looked like an enraged panther. Leave the manor, and dont put your nose in this matter! Otherwise, Ill kill Qin Tiantian.


    Qin Tiantian was both scared and regretful. She didnt mind her image and started crying. At this moment, she didnt even look like the noble daughter of a wealthy family.


    Qin Sisi asked helplessly, Uncle, why do you have to do this?


    Mr. Qin nced at Qin Sisi and clenched his jaw in anger. Sisi, I thought that you were an honest girl incapable of scheming, but I was wrong. Now, youve joined hands with outsiders to deal with me. How could I be this blind?!


    Uncle, you still have time to turn back. Im not going to tell my father the truth. In the future, youll still be my Second Uncle, okay?


    There is no turning back, snorted Mr. Qin. Ill give you five seconds. If you dont leave after five seconds, dont me me for not showing mercy.


    Mr. Qin showed no remorse. If we made a wrong move, he would really kill Qin Tiantian.


    Okay, well leave, answered Qin Sisi.


    Although Qin Tiantian had betrayed her, they were still sisters. Qin Sisi couldnt just watch her die.


    I wasnt pleased, but I couldnt do anything.


    While retreating, Qin Sisi said, Uncle, I know that you want the Qin Group, but there was no need for you to murder my father.


    I didnt want to murder him, said Mr. Qin. He sounded much calmer now. I guessed he thought his n was going to work. I just wanted him to be insane so that he couldnt lead the family anymore. But now, it seems my brother cannot continue to live.


    Second Uncle, thats not necessary. My father told me that he was both mentally and physically tired. He was nning to hand over the Qin familys business to you... Qin Sisi sighed.


    Mr. Qin was bewildered. Then, he smiled coldly. Did you think that I would buy that?


    Im telling the truth, said Qi Sisi. I swear on my fathers shares.


    What''s the point of saying that now? Mr. Qin sneered coldly. Its your fathers fault for being too meticulous and not allowing others to gain extra benefits. Im not the only one who had opinions about his work.


    Qin Sisi wanted to say something, but I stopped her. Theres no need to continue. There is no hope for him. He wont be able to escape his crimes.


    Qin Sisi said helplessly, Uncle, youve disappointed me a lot.


    Mr. Qin was somewhat bewildered. What do you mean?


    Soon after, a man appeared behind Mr. Qin, shing at his arm with a long sword.


    The strike was very powerful, and it easily chopped off Mr. Qins arm. Blood gushed like a stream of water.


    Mr. Qin couldnt even react to what was happening. He trembled and looked at us in horror.


    I immediately strode forward and pulled Qin Tiantian away from him.


    Mr. Qin finally reacted. He screeched, then hugged his cut limb. He turned to see the person who had shed him.


    When he saw Qin Minghao standing behind him, he screamed in fright. Brother, you you


    Qin Minghao shook his head in disappointment. Brother, youve disappointed me. I cant believe that you plotted against your rtives just to obtain the position of family head.


    Impossible! Impossible! Mr. Qin was desperate. The Thunder Sword was controlling you. How could you be sane?!


    You thought that you were the only one who had the help of an expert? Qin Minghao sounded disappointed. You rush things, youre immature, and you underestimate your opponent. Thats the reason I didnt give you the Qin Group.


    Mr. Qin was desperate. He faced the sky and howled, Its heavens will to kill me!


    Then, he fainted due to blood loss.


    When Shorty saw that his chances of winning were gone, he turned around in an attempt to escape.


    I reacted timely and jumped toward the flower bed, plucking the Corpse Scent Grass. Why are you still standing idle? Kill that man! Do you want to wait for him toe back and retaliate?


    The seven fiends clenched their teeth and stormed forward.


    The short man was startled. He quickly wielded his magic sword to resist them. The two parties began fighting at high speed.


    Qin Sisi immediately ran to Qin Minghao. Father... Are you all right?


    Qin Minghao shook his head. He looked like he was in pain, and tears lingered in the corner of his eye. No matter what, hes your uncle. Take him to the hospital.


    Qin Sisi nodded and called the ambnce.


    Qin Minghao looked at me. Mr. Zhang, Ill have to trouble you again. I cant put up with it any longer. The soul in the Thunder Sword is trying to im my mind. Hurry, tie me up!


    We couldnt make any mistakes at this moment. The seven fiends were dangerous, but so was the soul in the Thunder Sword.


    Gold-toothed, Li Mazi, and I hurried to tie up Qin Minghao with several ropes. At the same time, I used some simple techniques to stabilize Qin Minghao and prevent the departed soul from attacking his mind.


    However, there was something I didnt understand. At this moment, Qin Minghao was quite sober, which proved that hewasnt pestered by the departed soul all day long. He still had minutes of sanity.


    I see He was just pretending to be insane in front of Mr. Qin!


    I couldnt help but admire Qin Minghao for his willpower. However, it was to be expected. Without such willpower, he wouldn''t have been able to operate something as big as the Qin Group.


    Then, a horrible screech came to my ears.


    I turned to look and saw that the seven fiends had pinned Shorty to the ground. They held his head and pulled his four limbs. I could hear the cracking noises resounding from his joints.


    Fear filled my heart. The fiends were eventually fiends. They had no humanity and wouldnt hesitate to tear a person to pieces!


    I wanted to stop them, but it was toote. The short man was torn apart, and pieces of his flesh and blood flew everywhere.


    I saw his soul trying to flee, but the seven fiends didnt spare him. They stormed toward him and swallowed his soul.


    I was really worried. Although the seven fiends were also wounded, they were still more powerful than us. They could definitely kill us.


    While watching the seven fiends, dread filled my body.


    I couldnt wait any longer and asked everyone to run back into the building.


    However, the fiends blocked our way.


    They had already discarded the guard they had possessed and were floating in front of me in their soul forms. They said coldly, Now, its your turn!


    Then, they swarmed toward me.


    I cursed and threw a handful of soybeans at them.


    Since they had been injured by the formation and then weakened by the fight against the short man, they werent as strong as before. When the soybeans hit them, they shrieked and retreated.


    I was overjoyed. It seemed I could use soybeans to deal with them.


    I shouted and asked Li Mazi and Gold-toothed to attack them all at once.


    However, the seven fiends were smart. Since they knew the soybeans could affect them, they quickly moved to where the beans couldnt reach them.


    They then tried to catch me off guard. Since they were attacking my soul, I felt dizzy shortly after and almost ended up dead.


    While I was deep in thought, a deep voice came from afar. You stinky brats cant even deal with some wounded spirits. It seems this old man will have to join the fight.


    I was ted. It was Senior Shu!

 Chapter 332: Blood-Sucking Icy Soul Sword

    Chapter 332: Blood-Sucking Icy Soul Sword


    I followed the voice and turned around to see. Senior Shu was dashing toward us. Although he was old, he was still very fast. He reached Qin Minghao in just an instant. He grabbed the Thunder Sword and cut his finger with it, then moved toward the seven fiends.


    I went from feeling desperate to overjoyed the moment Senior Shu arrived. My fighting spirit was boosted, and I threw more soybeans at the fiends.


    At this moment, Senior Shus looked very intimidating, totally different from his usual self. He looked like a warrior that would kill anyone who stood in his way. The seven fiends were stunned by his aura, and they gasped in shock.


    Senior Shu sneered. Youre just a bunch of evil spirits, yet you dare to show off in front of me?! Tonight, I will show you how formidable the Blood-Sucking Icy Soul Sword is!


    Then, he aimed the Thunder Sword at the fiends.


    The sword moved strangely fast, leaving afterimages in the air. The fiends hurried to dodge, but one of them couldnt make it in time. The Thunder Sword shed it.


    The fiend was cut into two, screeching in agony.


    Senior Shu seized the chance and attacked again, shing at it several times. Eventually, the fiend turned into a sh of dark light that disappeared into thin air.


    Senior Shu had scared the other fiends, who no longer dared to press forward.


    Since Gold-toothed had suffered in their hands earlier, he screamed excitedly, Senior Shu, beat them to death! Earlier, they thought that we were weaklings!


    Senior Shu sneered. Why let them off so easily? How about I subdue them and make them endure the pain of a thousand-year-long confinement?


    Then, Senior Shu advanced with his sword. The fiends freaked out and ran for their lives, disappearing shortly after.


    Senior Shu moved two steps forward then stopped. Gold-toothed wasnt pleased and asked him to chase after the fiends.


    However, Senior Shu spurted a mouthful of blood and slumped on the ground. He didnt even have the strength to hold the sword and put it aside.


    I was scared and rushed toward him. Senior Shu, are you okay?


    Senior Shu smiled. I used my essence power, and I have no strength left. At least, I was able to scare off the fiends.


    Gold-toothed looked at Senior Shu in puzzlement. Senior Shu, you should have tried to hold on for a bit longer. You would have defeated them.


    Senior Shu red at Gold-toothed. Shut up. Do you think Im that strong? If I hadnt used my essence power, Im afraid all of us would have be food for the fiends. Were lucky that they left right away...


    I was stunned as I didnt expect the wounded fiends to be this powerful. I wondered how intimidating they were when they were at their peak.


    It also set off my grandfathers power. Since he could seal the seven fiends at their peak, he was unimaginably strong.


    Help me. I need rest, said Senior Shu. Ginseng, young deer antler, birds nest, shark fin Give me anything to recover my strength. I need to recover quickly. Otherwise, you guys will be the fiends side dishes!


    Qin Sisi nodded and called a restaurant to deliver the delicacies as soon as possible.


    Then, she went over to Qin Tiantian and sighed in disappointment.


    Qin Tiantian was still petrified and stared at the ground nkly.


    Qin Sisi squatted next to her. Sis, are you all right?


    Qin Tiantian observed Qin Sisi with skeptical eyes. She looked shocked for a while, then hugged her sister and cried. Its all my fault! How could I do something so absurd like that?! Sister, you have to help me!


    Qin Sisi nodded. Youre my sister, my closest family member. I will forgive you, no matter what you did. Dont worry. I wont tell dad about this.


    Qin Tiantian blurted, Sis, I will treat you better in the future. I wont take your things again


    Then, she burst out crying again. She looked really miserable when she sobbed.


    If I didnt know about Qin Tiantians personality, I would have believed that she regretted her actions and wanted to change herself.


    Stop crying! Gold-toothed couldnt stand it. Youre freaking annoying. Everything has been solved, hasnt it? If you want to redeem yourself, start by giving us our money.


    Gold-toothed roared valiantly. Perhaps he hated Qin Tiantians hypocrisy, but hepletely ignored her sobbing.


    Qin Tiantian was used to people being servile to her, and Gold-toothed had been pretty good at that. Now that his attitude changed, she was enraged.


    She wanted to explode but suddenly sensed that there was something wrong about this situation. She could only shoot Gold-toothed a fierce nce and swallow this grudge, asking him how much he wanted.


    Before Gold-toothed could open his mouth, Senior Shu said coldly, What solved? We have dealt with the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation, but we arent done with this Thunder Sword yet. Without the suppression from the seven fiends, this sword is going to be more dangerous.


    After Senior Shu said that, Qin Minghao, who was calm the whole time, suddenly screamed. Then, his entire body convulsed as if he received an electric shock.


    If he wasnt tied up, he would have jumped up to attack people.


    I was startled, worried that Qin Minghao would wiggle out of his restraints. I went to him and pressed him on the ground.


    However, this wasnt a good solution. I could feel Qin Minghaos huge raw strength. I couldnt stop him for long.


    I had a headache and looked at Senior Shu.


    Senior Shu said, Feed him Corpse Scent Grass! The Corpse Scent Grass can subdue evil spirits after being affected by the formation.


    I immediately ran to grab a big tuft of Corpse Scent Grass. As Senior Shu had directed, I put all of it into Qin Minghaos mouth.


    The grass tormented Qin Minghao, which caused him to struggle harder. He sent me flying backward.


    Inded on my poor butt and saw the stars.


    Li Mazi rushed to pull me up. I gave a wry smile. Dont worry about me. Stop Qin Minghao first.


    Unexpectedly, before we could approach him again, Qin Minghao quieted down. After a while, he no longer wiggled. It looked as if he was sleeping.


    I exhaled in relief and found that I couldnt put up with it anymore. I was so tired that I directlyid on the ground.


    The guards came over and brought me into the luxurious building.


    After they cleaned up the mess, the security guards went to Qin Sisi and said they wanted to resign.


    Mr. Qins crimes were exposed, and they had aided him. If they didnt make things right at this moment, the Qin family would crush themter.


    Qin Sisi forgave them and said that she wouldnt trouble them in the future. She even gave them an extra one-month sry.


    I was a little confused and asked Qin Sisi about it, Why are you so generous to these guards? They betrayed the Qins. If you show mercy to these traitors, it will be hard on the managers of thepany.


    Qin Sisi shook her head reluctantly. They say its better to mess with the Yama King than with little devils. If we offend them, Im afraid they wont act rational or think about the pros and cons before doing something extreme. I dont want to feel regretfulter.


    I forced a smile and had to admit that Qin Sisi was much better than me when it came to understanding people. She knew the way the world worked.


    Senior Shu was exhausted, but he wasnt hurt. After eating some nutritious food, he regained the colors on his face.


    I had a lot of doubts, so I went over to ask him.


    Senior Shu, Qin Minghao said that he also has an expert behind him and that he knew everything. Was he talking about my grandfather?


    Senior Shu gave a slight nod. If that person could calcte things fifteen years ahead of time... Im afraid it could only be your grandfather. Sigh, how could he be so formidable? How could he be so sure when he made his assessment?


    I was surprised. Senior Shu, you mean My grandfather predicted the events that happened today fifteen years ago? I thought that he just recently got wind of this stuff.


    Senior Shu sighed. Fifteen years ago, the Longquan Vi discreetly sold this Thunder Sword to the Qins. At that time, your grandfather had sensed that something was wrong, and he suspected Qin Minghaos brother, Qin Minghan. Hes the person that contacted you. Your grandfather could only ensure that the Seven Fiend Soul Locking Formation would work for fifteen years. After fifteen years, Mr. Qin would attack Qin Minghao one more time. Back then, your grandfather had already warned Qin Minghao about this possibility!


    He continued the story. Until today, Qin Minghao kept this matter buried in his heart; he never told anybody about it. Your grandfather knew that Qin Minghao was skeptical because the other party was his blood brother. He didnt have the heart to go hard on him. But now, after everything that happened, Qin Minghao could only believe your grandfathers words. He did as your grandfather had arranged that year. Your grandfather had taken care of every detail, including how the Zhang family woulde looking for you, and how the two of us would meet, which would lead me to get involved as well. In hindsight, it seems easy but nning all of this fifteen years ago was no joke. Your grandfather was really too smart. Im afraid I will never be able to reach that height in this lifetime


    Senior Shu sounded a little regretful.


    We all gaped in awe. How could someone arrange such a detailed n fifteen years ago? Was he even human?


    I forced a smile. My grandpa was really something Only a deity could n something of the sort!

 Chapter 333: White Bones

    Chapter 333: White Bones


    I asked Senior Shu, What should we do next? Even my grandfather could only seal the Thunder Sword. How can we subdue this thing?


    Senior Shu smiled. Dont worry. When the timees, your grandfather will make time out of his busy schedule toe here.


    I was ted. <em>My grandpa is finally willing to show himself?</em>


    After thinking that I could see my grandfather again, I couldnt contain my excitement.


    However, I was still worried. Those fiends werent dead yet. If they returned and encountered my grandpa, they would recognize that he was the one that had sealed them. They would definitely fight him to the death if that happened!


    Senior Shu patted my shoulder. What a filial grandson! But you dont need to worry. I scared those seven fiends for good. Even if they were bolder, they wouldnt dare toe back.


    I exhaled in relief. Thats good, then.


    It was after midnight, but we didnt dare to sleep as we were afraid that the soul in Qin Minghaos body would resurface. We were also worried that Mr. Qin would send assassins to take revenge.


    But nothing happened. The night quietly passed.


    Early the next morning, Senior Shu gathered us together and asked us to dig the floor of the mansion.


    After Qin Tiantian heard that, she wasnt pleased. The tiles in my house were imported from Belgium. They are worth millions of renminbi. Who willpensate us after you break the floor?


    I was enraged. If you dont want to dig up the floor in your house, youll have to dig your own grave very soon.


    After I snarled at her, Qin Tiantian didnt dare to make any morements. She pouted her lips as if she was showing herst resistance.


    Qin Sisi said, How could we let you dig the floor by yourself? I will get somebor workers to do that.


    Senior Shu shook his head. Its okay. We cant keep the secret if many people know about it. It wont be good for your familys reputation if this gets out. Also, if they do something wrong, itll create a lot of trouble.


    Qin Sisi was reluctant but nodded. She called the housekeeper and asked him to prepare some tools.


    I asked Senior Shu, Why do we have to dig up the floor?


    Senior Shu exined, Im sure there were twenty-eight horsemen who followed Xiang Yu. We need to unearth them and deal with their souls first. We dont want them to support Xiang Yuter. Its already a headache to deal with Xiang Yu; if we have to deal with the horsemen as well, Im afraid we wont make it. Our butts would be exposed while we are busy covering our heads.


    Li Maziughed and said, Haha, that was a good one. I agree with Senior Shu.


    Soon after, the housekeeper brought us some farming tools. We used iron shovels, hammers, and electric drills to dig a big hole in the luxurious Belgian floor. Qin Tiantian seemed pained.


    The Belgian floor was of high-quality, and it took us quite some time to dig a big hole and expand the cave underneath. I felt exhausted and regretted that we didnt find some construction workers.


    Senior Shu puffed his cigarettes as he watched us work our butts off. He looked very pleased.


    After a whole morning of digging, we were sweating and panting. Everybody was dead-tired. We had dug around two meters deep, but we still hadnt seen the skeletons.


    I started to wonder,<em>Are we even going to find skeletons down there? What if there is nothing? Wouldnt we have toiled for nothing?</em>


    I looked at Senior Shu. He smiled and said, Have you ever heard the proverb that if you dig three meters down, youll find a corpse?


    Li Mazi said, What if the skeletons we dig up arent the horsemens? Dont you know that deliberately digging up someones grave will bring you bad luck and ack of descendants?


    Senior Shuughed cheerily. Havent you heard that when you lift your head, Gods watching you from above? Since a deity is watching you, what are you afraid of? Also, I heard of someone digging up an urn of ashes, but theyre doing just fine.


    Li Mazi blushed andughed awkwardly. He shut his mouth and began to dig faster.


    Senior Shu was talking about Li Mazi just now.


    Qin Sisis interest was piqued. You know someone that specializes in unearthing urns? Can they sell them for money? This person has a business mind. If I have a chance, I would like to meet them.


    I burst outughing. <em>Well, that man is right in front of you!</em>


    Qin Sisi was curious. Why are youughing?


    I turned to look at Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi screamed, He has a mental problem. Theres no need to mind him.


    Qin Sisi was smart, and she could guess that we were talking about Li Mazi. She looked at me with questioning eyes. I knew she wanted me to confirm if it was Li Mazi.


    I gave her a nod. Qin Sisi was happy and looked at Li Mazi with admiring eyes.


    Soon, my shovel hit something hard. I immediately squatted to pick up the metal piece. Unexpectedly, it was a bronze spearhead.


    I knew it had to be the horseman''s weapon. I was ted and began to dig faster. Shortly after, I saw a lot of white bones.


    I was surprised to see that the armor on the skeletons had not rotted. These things were worth a small fortune.


    As they were worth money, we wanted to carefully extract them from the skeletons. Senior Shu urged, We dont have time for that! If we sell these things, they will bring disasters to many people. Who knows if some souls are attached to these sets of armor?


    I was reluctant, but we didnt have a choice. We could only tear open those sets of armor.


    There were twenty-eight skeletons in total.


    Senior Shu asked us to gather the skeletons and burn them.


    The me that was burning the skeletons was really strange. There was no wind, but it was raging. Moreover, we could hear crackling explosionse from the mes.


    I knew that the souls living in these bones were trying to escape. However, they couldnt.


    Then, Senior Shu asked us to fill the big hole.


    I was puzzled and asked Senior Shu, Is Xiang Yus body also in this pit?


    Senior Shu shook his head and said, If we could find Xiang Yus skeleton, it would be easy to deal with this matter.


    Your grandfather had the same idea. He also wanted to find Xiang Yus corpse. However, Xiang Yus skeleton isnt here.


    How is that possible? said Li Mazi. Xiang Yus skeleton should also be in his tomb, right?


    Senior Shu shook his head. No, this is just an empty grave. If Xiang Yu was buried properly, he wouldnt be this resentful! Moreover, the people that buried Xiang Yu were afraid that Liu Bang would dig his remains up to insult him further. Thats why they didnt tell anyone where they buried him.


    We understood and nodded.


    After filling the hole, we waited for the night toe.


    After thinking about my grandfather, I couldnt suppress my excitement. I showered and dressed well. I didnt want him to worry about me after seeing my unkempt appearance.


    Meanwhile, Qin Sisi went to the hospital to check on her uncle. When she came back, she told us that her uncle seemed to have turned crazy. He kept screaming and crying. Then, hey still on the bed and refused to eat. They had to feed him through a tube.


    I sighed and wondered if Mr. Qin had regretted his actions or if he couldnt ept the situation. However, it was no longer important. I wasnt bothered enough to care about their familys business.


    The night came.


    I quietly sat at the door, and Qin Minghaoy still near me.


    He was unconscious, and he wasnt pretending this time. Ever since the fiends were expelled, the resentful energy in the Thunder Sword was no longer restrained. Qin Minghao couldnt bear it, so he couldnt wake up during the day.


    Qin Sisi and Qin Tiantian stayed next to him. Qin Sisi cared about her father while Qin Tiantian looked restless all the time. She wanted to y with her phone, but I red at her. Eventually, she had to put it away.


    At around 10:00 PM, a strange, chilling wind blew over. I shuddered and felt my skin crawl.


    Senior Shu muttered, Be careful. Its either your grandfather or the seven fiends.


    I held the Sirius Whip and watched for anymotion around me.


    Soon after, I noticed that Qin Sisi seemed to be in a daze. She sprang up and stood on the tips of her toes as her puzzled eyes scanned the room.


    I was excited as it was my grandfather possessing Qin Sisis body. I gazed at her. Grandpa, is that you?


    Qin Tiantian burst outughing as she didnt know what was going on.


    Qin Sisi nodded. My dear grandson, you werent filial.


    Sure enough, it was my grandfathers voice.


    Qin Tiantain gawked and dropped her jaw in shock as she looked at her sister.

 Chapter 334: Bai Qi, the God of Slaughter

    Chapter 334: Bai Qi, the God of ughter


    Qin Tiantian hid behind me and shivered. She didnt even dare to lift her head.


    This woman was really interesting. She didnt look scared when she worked with Mr. Qin to harm her father, but she was scared out of her wits after seeing a ghost possessing her sister.


    Grandpa, I Why did you say that I wasnt filial? I asked.


    Do you remember what I told youst time? Wheres my great-grandson? Qin Sisi fumed, her round eyes gazing at me.


    An old mans hoarse voice wasing out of the mouth of a beautiful girl; it was really creepy.


    Anyway, I was at a loss for words. I never expected that he would ask about his great-grandson as soon as he saw me.


    It hasnt been that long since thest time we met. Even if I wanted to, I couldnt give you a great-grandson.


    Grandpa shot me a fierce look. I dont care how long it will take you. If I cant see my great-grandson, then I wont be able to rest in peace.


    Senior Shuughed. Old Brother Zhang, Im sure there will be many opportunities in the future. Theres no need to force him. Anyway, were facing an emergency here, and we need to hurry and deal with that Thunder Sword. If that sword kills your grandson, you will never be able to see or hug your great-grandson!


    Grandpa was enraged but was helpless. He coldly swung his arms. Old Shu, youll be my witness! Within one year, if this kid doesnt give me a great-grandson, you will be my great-grandson!


    Senior Shu wore a dark face and changed the topic. Okay, we should talk about the Thunder Sword first!


    Grandpa said, Dealing with that sword is both easy and difficult. As long as we use the right method, itll be as easy as flipping ones hand to subdue the Thunder Sword.


    Senior Shu looked worried. Why do we have to subdue the Thunder Sword? Cant we deal with it directly?


    Grandpa sighed. Throughout my whole life, the Thunder Sword is the strongest otherworldly item Ive ever encountered. Its not easy to deal with it. Back then, its resentful energy was already very high. Since it was confined for years, Im afraid it must be even higher now.


    I was a little scared as I looked at my grandpa. In that case, can we even deal with it?


    Grandpa said, Im afraid well have to improvise.


    I had a headache. If even my grandpa wasnt so sure about this case, we were in an extremely difficult situation.


    I can help you with the n, but I cant intervene directly, said Grandpa. Im now a Netherworld Messenger, so I cant interfere too much with the world of the living.


    What? Senior Shu was stunned. No matter what, this is some unfinished business you left behind. Why do we have to clean up your mess?


    Grandpa red at him. I also want to help, but the consequences might be too troublesome.


    After pausing for a while, he continued, Actually, you can use poison to fight poison, and deal with the Thunder Sword this way. If we cannot use manpower to deal with the Thunder Sword, you must borrow power from other sources.


    What other sources? asked Senior Shu. The Zhang family? They wish they never epted this case in the first ce.


    I think I got it, I said. Grandpa, you mean that we should find an otherworldly item thats simr to the Thunder Sword or a departed soul whose power is equal to the Hegemon King of Western Chu, and have them deal with the sword, right?


    My grandfather said, Yeah, thats what I meant.


    Okay, lets go with this n! Senior Shu, since you are knowledgeable, you must know some departed souls that are as powerful as the Hegemon King of Western Chu, right?


    Senior Shu furrowed his brows. I can indeed find these such souls, but what worries me the most is that we dont know a method to make use of their power! If the soul doesnt cooperate with us, it will be another pain in the ass. Then, we wouldnt be able to solve the Thunder Sword and we would have another fiend to deal with!


    Grandpa said, You guys should discuss this carefullyter.


    After pondering for a while, he turned to me. Jiulin, I guess you still remember all the incantations I taught you when you were young, right?


    I nodded immediately. I can even read them backward.


    Im sure some of them wille in handy.


    A strange wind blew before I could ask him anything. Then, Qin Sisis body copsed on the ground.


    I immediately reached out to support her and asked Qin Tiantian to take her to her room to rest.


    Qin Tiantian was so scared that she didnt even dare to touch her sister. I eventually had to ask Li Mazi to carry Qin Sisi to her room.


    Qin Minghao suddenly shrieked. I turned around and saw that he was struggling harder and harder. The rope that tied him was stretched, and it could break at any second. The man had green veins all over his face, which made him look frightening.


    I ran toward him to suppress him, but the man opened his mouth and tried to bite me.


    I shoved a pillow in his mouth and asked Senior Shu, Senior Shu, its important to save his life. If you have any special item, please use it now.


    Senior Shu grimaced. Eventually, he took out a talisman. This is myst spirit talisman...


    Li Mazi snatched the talisman from Senior Shus hands and forcefully pped it on Qin Minghaos body.


    Qin Minghaos struggles eased, but he didnt stoppletely. Moreover, as the power of the talisman gradually lost its effect, he started to wiggle again. I could only try my best to hold him down.


    Senior Shu, help me! I screamed. Its not the time to be stingy!


    Eventually, out of reluctance, Senior Shu took out another spirit talisman from his pocket. His eyes brimmed with tears. This is myst one. This time, for real...


    With the two talismans working at the same time, Qin Minghaos struggles subsided. Eventually, he stopped andid still on the sofa as if he was slumbering.


    I hurried to tighten the rope around him. After I secured the knots, I also slumped on the sofa and looked at Senior Shu. Senior Shu, you said that you can find a soul thats as intimidating as the Hegemon King of Western Chu. Can you tell us who that is?


    Senior Shu answered, Zen Master Baimei has confined a one-thousand-year Ghost King in his Dabei Temple. That Ghost King was a famous general in the Qin dynasty, Bai Qi. In the Battle of Changping, Bai Qi lured and ughtered four hundred thousand soldiers of the Zhao army. He earned his reputation from this feat. Back then, people called him the God of ughter! Afterward, King Qin Zhaoxiang started to suspect him and asked him to kill himself. Before hemitted suicide, Bai Qi screamed at the sky and asked what crime he hadmitted to bear such a fate. After he died, his soul couldn''t rest in peace, and he became a Ghost King. Zen Master Baimei subdued him and kept him in Dabei Temple. If we can use Bai Qi to deal with the Hegemon King of Western Chu, it will be a battle between a God of ughter and a God of War! He is the best match we can find. It just happens that the pagoda thats keeping Bai Qi is about to lose its power. Zen Master Baimei is also old and weak now, and Im afraid he wont be able to seal Bai Qi one more time. If we can use Bai Qi, itll be like killing two birds with one stone! Still, we will need to work hard to make use of Bai Qi.


    Senior Shu eyed me oddly. Kid, I cant do much here. You should try to think of a solution.


    I felt my head swelling. If youre also helpless, how am I supposed to deal with this matter?


    Senior Shu said, Your grandfather said that he taught you many incantations when you were young. Im sure he said that for a reason. It was a reminder to you. Those incantations maye in handy!


    I looked pensive and nodded. Give me a moment to think about it.


    I tried to search through my memory. Shortly after, I remembered an incantation that could work!

 Chapter 335: Redemption

    Chapter 335: Redemption


    It was the incantation of a technique called, Soul Gathering Spell. Although my grandpa never told me what the Soul Gathering Spell did, I could guess it from the name.


    It was a high-level ghost-controlling technique.


    The n was to release Bai Qi and use a special method to trick him into signing a contract with us. With that, even if he managed to get a hold of himself, he wouldnt be able to break free.


    However, using the Soul Gathering Spell was dangerous. We had to find something to attract Bai Qi first. And, if we failed to control him, there would be a lot of trouble; all of us could die.


    I had a headache and looked at Senior Shu. Senior Shu, I have an idea, but we must find something to attract and lure Bai Qi with. What could we use?


    When Senior Shu heard me, he clutched his head. Do we have to go down this route? Dont we have another option?


    I sank into my thoughts again, but I couldnt think of any other solution. The Soul Gathering Spell is dangerous as well. If Im careless, the Ghost King will counterattack and kill me.


    While contemting, Senior Shu said, Bai Qi likes human hearts. Back then, Zen Master Baimei had used a human heart to lure him. Thats how he was able to imprison him in the pagoda. However, its not easy to find a human heart.


    Qin Tiantian said, Actually, its easy to find. I can get it for you.


    She had a point. As long as one had money, buying human organs wasnt a problem. Even if she couldnt buy one, there were many homeless people and beggars. They were easy targets.


    Senior Shu red at Qin Tiantian. You think money can solve anything? Tell me, can money buy love? Can money buy a family? Can money buy friendships?


    Qin Tiantian couldnt help but cast Senior Shu a sidelong nce. Cut it out, you old loser.


    Her words left Senior Shu stunned. Eventually, he grunted, It must be a heart from someone willing to give it away. Thats the kind of fresh heart that can lure Bai Qi.


    Qin Tiantian said, Would it work if I give them more money?


    Li Mazi was mad. If money could solve everything, why did you have to find us?


    We had to pay to bring you here, didn''t we? If I gave you ten million renminbi, wouldnt you be willing to risk your life for me? Qin Tiantian sounded confident.


    She made us speechless, and I was somewhat embarrassed as she was right. After all, we came for the money.


    At this moment, someone knocked on the door.


    Qin Tiantian couldnt help but ask, Whos there?


    Unexpectedly, Mr. Qins voice came from outside. Its me!


    I cursed under my breath. We hadnt solved Qin Minghaos case yet and now Mr. Qin was here!


    I was sure he was back to cause more troubles.


    Qin Tiantian turned to us worriedly.


    Go get the door, I said. If he dares to cause trouble, I will use the Thunder Sword to kill him.


    Qin Tiantian restlessly ran to open the door.


    Outside the door stood Mr. Qin. He looked weak, and his whole body was bandaged. He limped toward us and didnt look that threatening as he was alone.


    I gently exhaled and rxed my hands that held the Thunder Sword. Mr. Qin, why didnt you stay at the hospital to treat your wounds? Why are you back?


    Mr. Qin looked at me, his expressionplicated. We couldnt read what he was thinking. Im here to redeem myself!


    Redeem yourself? I felt doubtful as I looked at him, trying to read his mind.


    Mr. Qin went directly to the bed and got on his knees in front of Qin Minghao. Brother!


    Unexpectedly, Qin Minghao was conscious. I could see the corner of his mouth move a little. It looked like he wanted to say something.


    However, he couldnt get up. He could only lie on the bed.


    Brother, I deserved to lose this arm. Mr. Qins voice was low. I couldnt help but feel at a loss.


    Do you know what I remembered? When we were little, our family was poor, and we had to endure hunger. I remember one birthday of mine when we didnt even have eggs to eat. I convinced you to steal the neighbors eggs, but we were discovered. The neighbor said he would break our arms, and we were so scared that we started crying. In the end, you asked him to break your arm instead. You said it so he wouldnt break mine. We were naive back then, and we really thought that stealing some eggs could cost us an arm. Yet, you were brave enough to stand up for me and bore all the punishment. How strong and brave you were to protect me, your little brother at that time! But now, youve seen what Ive done. Then, Mr. Qin started to sob again. Ive done horrible things to you, brother. I must redeem myself.


    Mr. Qin was crying and looked heartbroken. I didnt know if he was just acting again, but his cries seemed real this time. I kinda believe him.


    All right, all right. Senior Shu couldnt bear it anymore. If you want to redeem yourself, you should do something useful instead of just crying!


    Mr. Qin stopped crying and turned to Senior Shu. Tell me! As long as I can save my brother, Im willing to give my life. Ive done filthy things that even animals dont do. Im afraid that even the heavens will disdain me and use lightning to strike me dead. I will eventually die, but I would rather use my death to redeem my sins. Even if I could only help my brother a little bit, that would ease my conscience.


    Mr. Qin lit a cigarette and sat on the sofa, slowly closing his eyes. He looked very weak.


    He puffed the cigarette as he faced the ceiling.


    Uncle, youre willing to save my father? Qin Tiantian was ted. Now, theres a good chance for you to redeem yourself. Do you want to do that?


    I looked at Qin Tiantian and was at a loss for words.


    That man was her Second Uncle! Although he did terrible things, she shouldnt just tell him to go die.


    Moreover, several hours ago, Qin Tiantian and her uncle were on the same side!


    Sure enough, birds of the same feather flock together. Mr. Qin was willing to keep Qin Tiantian hostage to achieve his n, and Qin Tiantian didnt have any remorse about sacrificing Mr. Qin to protect her position in the Qin family.


    Mr. Qins facial expression lookedplicated. I guessed he felt desperate at this time.


    Eventually, heughed. Tiantian, Ill help you guys even if it costs my life. Its my atonement to your father and you as well. After you followed me, your worldview was twisted. Its my fault. However, youre still young. After this matter is over, I will give you all of my savings to help you with your education.


    All right, I agree. Qin Tiantian agreed readily. As long as you risk your life for my father, I dont have a problem attending university.


    <em>University?</em> I sneered. I knew that the education Mr. Qin was talking about wasn''t that simple. For a girl like Qin Tiantian, if they didnt keep her on the right track, she would be a horrible person in the future.


    Mr. Qins education was bound to make her suffer a bit. For example, she would have to work at theirpany and start from the lowest position, which would kill her pride and arrogance. It would enable her to taste the bittersweet struggles of life.


    We were surprised, though. It didnt look like Mr. Qin was ying around. He seemed prepared to use his life to atone for his sin.


    Senior Shu looked at Mr. Qin, Are you sure?


    Mr. Qin nodded. I am.


    Once the arrow leaves the bow, it cannot return. Once youre involved in our n, you might even die


    Qin Tiantian sounded impatient. What are you still wasting time? My uncle agreed with this n. Just do what you have to do. Hurry up!


    Mr. Qin sighed deeply.


    Since Mr. Qin had agreed, we were saved from a headache. We couldnt dy things any longer. We had to prepare the next step.


    Senior Shu immediately left for Dabei Temple to borrow the pagoda that imprisoned Bai Qi. Hed also bring Zen Master Baimei here to protect us.


    As for me, I had to prepare the Soul Gathering Spell.


    The Soul Gathering Spell would work by reading the incantation and using a set of footwork. There was no requirement to draw a formation. Thats why I didnt need to prepare anything.


    The only thing was to make sure that Mr. Qins body was healthy. Tomorrow night, the Soul Gathering Spell would be performed directly on his body. If Mr. Qin couldnt put up with it, I was afraid that I wouldnt be able to perform the spell smoothly.


    Since Mr. Qin had lost a lot of blood, his heart might not be delicious enough to lure Bai Qi. As such, we had to feed him so that he could recover from his blood loss.


    For the whole day, Mr. Qin had to eat pig liver and donkey-hide gtin. He ate the food until he almost puked.


    Before the night came, I reviewed the Soul Gathering Spell to ensure that everything would go smoothly.


    When the night came, Senior Shu returned with Zen Master Baimei, who held a small pagoda made of brass in his hand. It had speckles of rust and patina, and it looked really old.


    I was ted. Senior Shu, Zen Master Baimei, youre here!

 Chapter 336: The Gate of Wealth and Fame

    Chapter 336: The Gate of Wealth and Fame


    Zen Master Baimei nodded. Merciful Buddha, I had heard about the Zhang familys Soul Gathering Spell, but I thought it was lost already. Young Benefactor, it seems youre bing more and morepetent as time passes by


    I smiled. Zen Master Baimei, youre giving me too much praise. Im just lucky that I received my grandfathers inheritance. Everything in this world is predestined, said Zen Master Baimei. It was your destiny to receive your grandfathers inheritance. You dont need to be humble about it.


    Since we couldnt dy things any further, Zen Master Baimei asked, How are your preparations?


    I gave him a confirming nod. Were ready to start. Zen Master Baimei looked reluctant as he gave me the pagoda that had sealed Bai Qi. Just be bold. If you fail, Ill back you up! I gave Zen Master Baimei a resolute nod. Zen Master Baimei, thanks for your help. Zen Master Baimei brought his palms together in front of his chest and smiled.


    I asked everybody to hide outside the building; only Mr. Qin, Qin Minghao, and I remained in the room. I took a deep breath and looked at Mr. Qin. Are you ready? Mr. Qin nodded and stood up, his empty sleeve billowing in the wind. I helped him take off his shirt, then used a mix of corpse oil and human ashes to draw the Soul Summoning Formation on his chest. The Soul Summoning Formation was needed to maximize the effects of the Soul Gathering Spell. I had learned this formation from Senior Shu, and I finally had a chance to use it. After everything was done, I asked Mr. Qin to lie next to Qin Minghao. Then I ced the Thunder Sword across their chests.


    I looked through the window and felt the death energying. The temperature dropped sharply. I soon felt cold. I took a deep breath because I knew that the best time to perform the Soul Gathering Spell had arrived. I took another deep breath and picked up the Thunder Sword. Then, I proceeded toward the window.


    There was a small sacrificial altar by the window where the pagoda was ced. To prevent Bai Qi from sneaking out of the pagoda, several eggs were ced around the structure.


    These were eggs that were almost about to hatch. As the chickens were forming, their Yang energies were at the pinnacle. Zen Master Baimei told me that this pagoda couldnt restrain Bai Qi for much longer, which is why they had been using this traditional method for one month already to subdue Bai Qi. Zen Master Baimei had eaten only eggs these days, and he was pretty sick of it.


    However, his words made me feel uneasy. It meant that even he couldnt seal Bai Qi again. If he went out of control, Zen Master Baimei could only use his life force to suppress him.


    In other words, if I failed, not only would Mr. Qin and Qin Minghao die, but my life and Zen Master Baimeis life would also end! I carefully took away the eggs. A momentter, I felt rippling waves outside the windows. Darkness crept in like a hostile, swarming tide. Soon, it covered the pagoda entirely. I took a deep breath. Bai Qi was taking in the death energy. He was awake, and he would soon break the seal. I stood next to Qin Minghao and observed the pagoda. Shortly after, the pagoda began to vibrate. As it shook, a wisp of ck smoke slowly rose from underneath it. I took a deep breath and retreated several steps, still keeping my eyes on the pagoda. More and more death energy exuded from the pagoda. The more wisps of energy emerged, the bigger the cracks. Eventually, the flood of energy seemed to have broken the dam. The energy furiously flew out, and all the wisps congregated at the window, which created a monstrous figure.


    When I saw the figure, I couldnt help but shudder.


    The monster was at least two meters tall, had muscr limbs, hideous facial features, and red eyes as bright as lights.


    Was the monster before me what Bai Qi had turned into after his death? I couldnt help but feel shocked.


    The closer the Ghost King was to me, the higher the pressure I felt. His formidable aura was enough to make my scalp go numb.


    The Ghost King spotted me and slowly walked toward me. He smiled coldly. Little rats, you must die.


    As I looked at the giant Ghost King, I backed off until I reached Mr. Qin. I immediately started to perform the Soul Gathering Spell. I chanted, The disciple looks at the blue sky, while Netherworld''s souls gather! I shout, Ghost King,e! I whisper, earth army,e! Come and enjoy the human heart we offer. You just have to listen to mymand The Ghost King was bewildered and nced at me then at Mr. Qin.


    I looked at the Ghost King in fear. It was the moment of sess or failure.<em></em>


    If Mr. Qins heart couldnt entice the Ghost King, our n would fail, and things would turn for the worse.


    The Ghost King shifted his gaze between Mr. Qin and me. It looked like he was considering the matter, wondering if Mr. Qins heart was good enough.


    Luckily, after pondering for a while, the Ghost King settled on Mr. Qin. In an instant, his body shrank, and he entered Mr. Qins body through his nostrils.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Ghost King, today, I offer you a red, fresh heart. If you work for me, you will receive many benefits. Mr. Qins body suddenly convulsed. Then, he sat up, his bright red eyes gazing at me.


    My heart was racing. <em>Did he agree or not? Why is he just staring at me?!</em>


    All of a sudden, Mr. Qinughed, which caused his pale face to twist. I want his heart.


    No problem, I said. However, you must help me first.


    Speak! The Ghost King was impatient. Subdue the soul in that sword, I said. The Ghost King sneered. Thats pretty easy.


    Then, the Ghost King picked up the Thunder Sword and observed it. Hmph, this is an intimidating character! Wait here. Im going to devour the soul in this sword. Then, I will swallow your heart.


    Then, Mr. Qin slumped on the ground. The Ghost King escaped his body and entered the Thunder Sword.


    Instantly, the fierce battle between two famous warriors in history, the God of ughter and the God of War, had begun.


    I was ted and seized the opportunity. I immediately chanted the incantation of the Soul Gathering Spell. Thousand souls, perish! Along with my footwork, the dark atmosphere dissipated. A beam of cold moonlight pierced through the dark, gloomy death energy as it entered the room and directly covered the Thunder Sword. The Thunder Sword hovered in the air and released a mist of dark air to resist the moonlight. At the same time, I saw two shadows struggling inside the sword. They were trying to escape.


    Bai Qi and the Hegemon King of Western Chu had sensed that something was wrong. They were trying to run for their lives.


    However, they couldnt break through theyer of moonlight. No matter how hard the two souls struggled, they could only chip at the moonlight a little bit. Neither of them could escape. I kept chanting the Soul Gathering Spell and confined the two souls. When Zen Master Baimei and Senior Shu heard the noise in the room, they rushed in. When they saw the situation, they were startled. Senior Shu immediately read some spells while Zen Master Baimei held his prayer beads. Together, we tried to suppress the Thunder Sword. The Thunder Sword became frantic. It vibrated, struggled, and tried to get rid of the moonlight confinement. However, it eventually failed.


    ROOOAR! Atst, I heard an angry bestial roar echo from the sword. Then, the de furiously thrust into Mr. Qins chest.


    I couldnt move fast enough to stop it. The sword had pierced through his heart.


    Blood spell! Get sealed! I took a deep breath and went over to him. I dipped my index and middle fingers into his blood and drew a formation on the Thunder Sword.


    The sword gradually quieted down and stopped moving. However, the surface looked as if it was burned; it had turned ck.


    I exhaled in relief. <em>Is it over?</em>


    However, the pitiful Mr. Qi couldnt be more dead.


    The door to the room was pushed open. Qin Sisi and Qin Tiantian rushed in.


    Qin Tiantian asked, How did it go?


    Qin Sisi was more concerned. How are my father and my uncle?


    From their questions, we could assess their different personalities.


    Anyway, the Thunder Sword was sealed once again.


    After several days, Qin Minghao recovered. As for Mr. Qin, although he still had a small chance to live, he deliberately unplugged his oxygen tube and let himself die.


    Afterward, Qin Minghao sent Qin Tiantian to the bottom of society for her re-education.


    Since we had helped the Qins solve a fatal cmity, the payment we received was pretty big.


    However, I didnt feel happy. Wealthy families like this one looked amazing on the outside, but they were actually pretty vicious on the inside.


    Rather than paradise, it was more like living in hell.


    Once you entered this gate of wealth, youd lose your love, friendships, family, and eventually yourself. Youd have to struggle for your life amidst the mountain of gold and get past oceans of blood.


    Was it really worth it?

 Chapter 337: The Bank Robbery

    Chapter 337: The Bank Robbery


    Although we could temporarily seal the Hegemon King of Western Chu, the Thunder Sword was still an otherworldly item with great murderous energy. If we sold it, we would indirectly kill people. Being an otherworldly merchant, I had my conscience and code of ethics.


    In the end, I agreed with Zen Master Baimeis suggestion to store the Thunder Sword and the pagoda in the same ce so that the two bloody Gods could keep fighting each other without harming innocent people.


    Only Zen Master Baimei and I knew the location of the items.


    Xiang Yu used to be a powerful warrior when he was alive, and he became an intimidating ghost in death. This end seemed to fit his identity well.


    One month went by.


    My antique shop didnt get any new business. Every day, I would read books or surf the Inte as I waited for Yin Xinyue to clock off. We went on walks and had dinner together; I had spent my time leisurely. After one month, Yin Xinyue told me that she had gained three kilograms, which made her too ashamed to meet people. She insisted that we had to buy a treadmill so that she could lose weight.


    No one could reason why women adored their beauty so much. I couldnt do anything else but follow her to the nearby bank to withdraw some money to buy a treadmill.


    Since it was near the end of the month, many people were waiting to withdraw their sry. We took the order number and sat at the front to wait. All of a sudden, we heard a gunshot, and several masked thugs walked in.


    No one move! All of you, squat and keep your hands on your head! I will shoot dead whoever gives the rm! shouted the leader of the robbers.


    I was puzzled.<em>Is this real? What bad luck!</em>


    I always used an ATM to withdraw money. For the whole year, I never stepped into a bank. Now, I was in the middle of a bank robbery.


    The robbers pointed their guns at us. We had to squat with our hands on our heads. Soon, all the people in the bank were crouching down.


    The robbers asked the manager to take them to the vault. At the same time, they shot all the cameras. The gunshot noises made people whimper and shriek.


    I turned to Yin Xinyue. She was scared, her face pale.


    Dont be scared. Im here.


    Although I wasforting Yin Xinyue, I was also worried. I had no problem dealing with otherworldly items. However, it was a big problem to deal with a gang of armed robbers.


    From what we had seen on TV, there was a secret button under the bank counter that would alert the police. After the button was pressed, the police woulde within three minutes.


    From where I was crouching, I couldnt see the situation behind the counter, and I didnt know if there was a button. I just hoped that Yin Xinyue and I could endure these several minutes and remain safe and sound.


    Brother Zhang, look at their shadows. Yin Xinyue suddenly saw something.


    What about their shadows? I nced curiously. Those robbers shadows were very light. The two robbers that were watching us stood under the fluorescent lights, but their shadows were too faint. They were almost indiscernible.


    ording to numerology, people with strong fate had a darker shadow; on the other hand, the weaker the fate was, the dimmer the shadow. If there were just one or two members with faint shadows, it could be that they were just unlucky people. However, the entire gang of six or seven robbers all had faint shadows. This couldn''t be a coincidence!


    I observed their eyes; theycked focus, and there was something ck in the scleras. Furthermore, a robber even had a fly that greedily sucked on his eyeball. He wasnt even bothered by it.


    I suddenly understood the situation. These robbers werent living beings. They were walking corpses controlled by someone.


    I couldnt believe that someone was controlling corpses for the sake of robbing a bank... The times had changed!


    Dont worry. I have a solution! I gently patted Yin Xinyues hand and coaxed her.


    While the robbers were trying to open the safe, I seized the chance and picked up two pieces of paper on the ground. I tore them into the shape of two human figures. Then, I asked Yin Xinyue to bite her middle finger. I needed a drop of her blood on one of the figures. After winding a strand of her hair around that human figure, I proceeded to do the same.


    After I finished preparing the paper figures, Iid them on the ground and grabbed Yin Xinyues hand. We rushed out. At first, she was a little scared, but when she saw that the gangsters did not seem to realize that we were escaping, she became bolder. She even stopped and waved her hand in front of one of them.


    Brother Zhang, youre incredible! Yin Xinyue screamed happily.


    The people in the bank saw us move freely. They gaped in shock but since the robbers had firearms, no one dared to talk.


    Everything alive in this world had a spirit, but corpses did not. They were controlled by spells or forbidden magic. That was why the walking corpses in the bank were easily deceived by two pieces of paper.


    Guys, dont be scared. Im going to call the police now.


    I pushed the banks door open by a little bit and wormed out. As soon as we got out, Yin Xinyue immediately took out her phone to call the police.


    Hello, is this 110? Im calling to report a bank robbery. Yeah, theyre still inside. Oh, the address is


    While Yin Xinyue was calling the police, I saw an ordinary-looking van. It was parked by the street and was probably waiting for the robbers. I immediately walked toward it.


    A robber was in the driver seat, motionless. Since I had my substitute paper doll in the bank, he didnt see me. I turned to ask Yin Xinyue, Did you bring any sharp items? A knife or a screwdriver is okay.


    Why would a youngdy bring these types of things with her when she goes out? After she searched her bag, she took out a small pair of scissors. Are these okay?


    I stretched my arm to receive the tool.


    What do you want to do? Yin Xinyue sounded restless and anxious.


    Cut off this robbers head.


    What?! You want to do that right on the street?


    Im kidding. Im going to sh his tires. Its a little service to the police. Perhaps they will give us an award or certificateter.


    Youre really bad, you know? Yin Xinyue smiled as she pounded her soft fist on me.


    The tires of this van were full of air. If I randomly stabbed it, it would explode and hit me. I held the pair of scissors upside down in my hands and slowly stabbed the tires. After a quick puff, the air vented out. One tire was deted.


    Right when I was about to stab the second tire, the car door opened. The robber got out of the car and quietly sat in front of us.


    Yin Xinyue was scared and let out a shriek.


    Dont be scared. He cant see us.


    Brother, whose side are you on? asked the robber. I was startled and guessed he was a high-quality walking corpse.


    He didnt wear a mask. His face was pale, and his eyes looked empty. Moreover, there was a purple bruise on his right eye, and his chin was covered with stubbles.


    This stubbled man looked a little older than twenty years old, but his voice was that of a forty or fifty years old middle-aged man.


    I realized that the voice belonged to the man who was performing the corpse controlling technique. He had to be nearby and was watching me. Right when I was about to search around, he spoke again. Everybody is from the same circle. Im just trying to make ends meet. Dont force me.


    Who the hell is in your circle!


    Haha, I gave you face, but you didnt want it. Dont me me then!


    The stubbled man thrust his hand into his pocket.


    <em>Damn, it seems he has a gun.</em>


    Since the situation was turning for the worse, I grabbed his wrist and mmed it against the car. A handmade gun fell to the ground and fired. Yin Xinyue screamed. People walking on the street also noticed themotion and gathered around.


    Run! Im going to deal with him! I told Yin Xinyue.


    All of a sudden, ck, worm-like things wiggled under the skin of the stubbled man. They looked disgusting and quickly covered his arm. In just a blink of an eye, his arm had bulged and be as stiff as iron. He swung it with great force, sending me backward.


    I flew three meters away and heavilynded on the ground.


    The stubbled man smiled and turned around to pick up the gun. Yin Xinyue shivered in horror, unable to move.


    I took out the Sirius Whip andshed at him. The Sirius Whip tore through the air and coiled around the stubbled mans arm. I pulled the whip backward, making the gun fly out of his hand.


    The stubbled man roared and charged at me like a wild animal. I wielded my Sirius Whip again to threaten him. However, his soulless body wasnt afraid of the magic power of the whip!


    Both of his hands acted like a pair of iron pliers, grabbing my throat. He wrinkled his nose and bared his teeth, with his stinky saliva dripping onto my face. The stench was horrid, and I felt like I could lose my consciousness at any moment.


    Right after, a gunshot fired.


    The stubbled man trembled as if he was hit. His grip loosened a bit, which allowed me to suck in more air.


    Yin Xinyue was holding the gun with both hands, shivering and on the verge of crying.


    The stubbled man sneered then started to walk toward her. Yin Xinyue fired more shots. The bullets pierced through his body, but no drops of blood came out.


    Run! I screamed as I strangled the stubbled man from behind. However, he just shook his shoulder to shake me off.


    A walking corpse, especially one that was controlled, would not have any weaknesses in a one-on-one battle!


    My eyes turned to the pair of scissors I had dropped by the van. I took the time to run and picked it up. Then I used it to scratch my be until it bled.


    I dipped my index finger into my blood and grabbed the stubbled mans neck from behind one more time. While he was struggling to get rid of me, I thrust my finger into his mouth and tried to reach deep into his throat.


    The stubbled man acted as if he had a fishbone in this throat. His body began to shake hard, and the ck thing in the scleras shed and became unstable.


    Eventually, he fell on the ground, his body convulsing.


    I exhaled in relief. Then, a frightening explosion resounded from the general direction of the bank. A thick column of smoke rose into the sky!

 Chapter 338: Walking Corpses

    Chapter 338: Walking Corpses


    An earth-shaking explosion resounded when the robbers blew the vault off. The shockwave shattered all the nearby ss panels. At the same time, the door to the bank was pushed open. I called Yin Xinyue and asked her to hide.


    We ran and hid behind a flower bed. I checked on her; she was rubbing her red wrist. The redness could be from the coiling force of the gun. You shouldnt act rashly. I dont want to grow old alone.


    She put on a fake long face. Grow old alone? You wont get the chance.


    I felt touched and rubbed her wrist. You can shoot?


    I learned how to shoot when I acted in a movie. It was about a spy during wartime. Brother Zhang, what did you do to subdue that walking corpse?


    A persons be is where his soul rests. I just took a bit of my soul blood and fed it to that walking corpse. I wanted to use my soul energy to mess up with the magic technique the culprit was using to control that corpse. It uses the same principle as radio frequencies. I used another frequency to disturb his own, I exined.


    However, it was somewhat dangerous. If the culprit had strong soul power and I was careless, I would be his walking corpse. Fortunately, since he was controlling six or seven corpses at the same time, he couldnt use his full strength to deal with me.


    At this moment, the robbers rushed out of the bank while carrying bags full of money on their backs. While dashing away, they identally dropped several stacks of banknotes. Police sirens came from the end of the street, and police cars stopped in front of the bank one after another. Policemen jumped out of their cars and used their cars to shield themselves. They aimed their guns and shouted, Freeze!


    The robbers didnt want to stop, nor did they raise their hands above their heads. They drew their guns and fired at the police. The two parties then had a furious battle. For the first time in my life, I had finally witnessed a gun battle. It was really exciting!


    The robbers soon ran out bullets. All of a sudden, they scattered in all directions. The police force also split up and chased after them.


    Some policemen stayed at the scene and went inside the bank to check the losses and to see if anyone was hurt.


    After seeing that the situation was under control, I prepared to leave with Yin Xinyue. I didnt want to stay and talk to the police. This time, it wasnt just a simple robbery, and it could lead to something more troublesome.


    As I was about to leave, someone called me. Mr. Zhang, why are you here?


    It was Fengshen Nana.


    My be was still bleeding, so Fengsheng Nana burst outughing. Mr. Zhang, look at you. Why did you dress like Nezha? [1] Hey, do you have anything to do with the bank robbery? Dont tell me that you do.


    I was just passing by. How could it rte to me? Although I said that, I admired her senses as a policewoman.


    And this is Her eyes turned to Yin Xinyue.


    My wife.


    Ah, maam, you look really beautiful. You look like a star, said Fengsheng Nana. Although Yin Xinyue enjoyedpliments, she stayed humble.


    Then, a policeman around thirty years old came to us. He had a clean face with two thick, sword-like eyebrows. He spoke in a stern tone, Sir, maam, please follow us to the police station.


    Why? I asked.


    You know why. The policeman shot a look at something behind me.


    I followed his line of sight. The forensic team was checking the stubbled man while some policemen were asking pedestrians for oral confessions. Some of the pedestrians looked at me. It was hard to deny what happened as they all witnessed my fight with the stubbled man.


    Did you kill him? asked the cop. His serious eyes studied me.


    I didnt kill him. He was already dead when he came here. Moreover, I just defended myself. You can ask the people around if you dont believe me, I hurried to exin.


    You dont need to be tense. As long as you cooperate with us, we wont hurt you. I just want to make something clear. The people in the bank said that you and thisdy escaped under the watch of the robbers. How were you able to do that? Also, you said this man was already dead before you killed him. Do you think I would buy it? Youd bettere with me to the police station. We need to take your oral confession, said the policeman.


    From the policemans tone, I knew he suspected that I knew this gang or that I was even a member of this gang. Although it was their responsibility to suspect people, I didnt feelfortable with him suspecting me.


    As I worried about how to answer him, the forensic doctor called him. Captain Liang,e look at this!


    The cop left, but he didnt forget to advise Fengshen Nana. Nana, you stay here and ask this mister for his ID card. We need the exact information.


    I sneered inwardly. He just wanted her to stay and watch me. He didnt want me to run away.


    Fengshen Nana gave me an embarrassed smile. Our Captain is always like that. Dont me him.


    Its okay. We have to follow the procedure, I answered.


    Fengshen Nana gave me a salute. Please show your ID cards. Also, thank you for your cooperation.


    What? You really want to check my ID card?


    I reluctantly took out my ID card and driving license and showed them to her.


    Fengshen Nana, can you take us to the corpse? I want to take a look at it.


    Okay, said Fengshen Nana.


    The police had taped a line around the body. At this moment, two forensic doctors wearing stic gloves pressed on the corpses abdomen. It was as if something living was in his stomach.


    Yin Xinyue covered her mouth and retched. She was disgusted.


    Captain Liang was worried that the stubbled man was hiding a time bomb in his abdomen. He called the explosive expert. At the same time, he evacuated people at the scene. Unauthorized people werent allowed to enter.


    At first nce, I knew what the culprit had used to control this corpse.


    While they were discussing whether or not to dissect the body at the scene, two policemen returned. One of them had a bleeding calf.


    Hey Little Wang, are you okay? Did your leg get hurt? asked Captain Liang.


    Its not a big deal. A bullet grazed me.


    The two policemen then exined that the robber they were chasing after was crazy. While crossing the overpass, he jumped off a bridge. A truck crushed him at that instant. The resulting scene was horrible.


    However, the robber didnt look like a living person. The massive truck crushed him into meat dough, but he didnt shed any blood.


    The other cops also returned. Five robbers had killed themselves. One had blended into the crowd at the train station and disappeared.


    In short, they couldnt arrest any of them alive.


    The robbers dead bodies were all over the ce, and banknotes were also scattered everywhere. The scene was aplete mess. The Criminal Police had to ask security patrolling teams, the traffic police, and even volunteers toe and maintain order. They said that this was the biggest mess they had seen in the past three years.


    After Captain Liang listened to their report, he cussed, Those freaking bastards!


    He shot me a nce and muttered something to Fengshen Nana. Eventually, he walked up to me, and his attitude had changedpletely. Mr. Zhang, it turns out youre a grandmaster. Please forgive me for not noticing it earlier. Could you pleasee with us and tell us what happened at the time of the crime?


    You overpraise me. I smiled and said, I can tell you about the situation, but Im afraid you wont believe it.


    Dont worry. I trust you! Captain Liang nodded.


    Okay.


    I then told him what had happened during the bank robbery, including the inside information I knew. After listening to me, Captain Liang pondered for a while. Are you saying that the ringleader behind all this is someone else?


    Yeah. If Im not wrong, every one of those robbers has a mouse in their abdomen. Its a special mouse. All of its orifices are sewed, I said.


    After we return to the office, I will ask the forensic doctor to perform the autopsy immediately. Could you pleasee with us? Captain Liang asked politely.


    I knew that the trip was unavoidable, so I had to agree with him.


    I had a vague feeling that there was an intimidating otherworldly item behind this event. If it could control seven walking corpses at the same time, it would be an item with a famous background.


    I didnt want to step into this mess, but since I was already involved, I had to see it through.


    Cops were also officials, so it was the best if Li Mazi coulde and deal with them. Although I had Yin Xinyue here, she was just a young woman with no experience; it was better if Li Mazi took care of the matter. I called him and asked him to meet me at Nanas police station. I tricked him by saying that we had a big case this time. Li Mazi was excited and said that he would be here in thirty minutes.


    Half an hourter, Li Mazi appeared at the police station right as Yin Xinyue and I got out of the police car. I introduced him to Captain Liang and said that he was my assistant. When I said the word assistant, Fengshen Nana sneered, which angered Li Mazi. If I wasnt there to calm them down, Li Mazi would have started to fight with her.


    You guys already knew each other? asked Captain Liang.


    Weve only met a few times, said Fengshen Nana.


    I had helped her solve a big case, yet she said that we had just met a few times. I guessed she didnt want her superior to view her as a superstitious officer.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nezha

 Chapter 339: Shamanism

    Chapter 339: Shamanism


    Captain Liang brought us to his office then poured each of us a cup of tea. Allow me to introduce myself again. My names Liang Xiaoyue. Im the captain of the citys Criminal Police Force.


    Li Mazi immediately beamed at him to earn his favor. I really admire you, Officer Liang. Youre this young and already a captain. You are a talented man. My family names Li. Here is my business card. Please take care of meter.


    Then, Li Mazi took out a card and gave it to him with both hands.


    I nced at the card. It read, Geomancy Advisor, Ghost & Monster Hunter, Master of Antiques. There were many titles. I even saw Researcher of Urban Legends written on the card. Li Mazi had polished himself nicely!


    Officer Liang didnt put on airs. He received the business card, took a look at it, then smiled. So youre into this kind of business.


    Dontugh at us. Its just the way we make ends meet. Li Maziughed and patted my shoulder. Anyway, my brothers ancestors all worked as otherworldly merchants. Dont assess him from his young age; hes very skilled. When someone wants him to solve a paranormal case, the result will turn out better than praying to a deity or Buddha.


    Li Mazi was ttering me so much that it made me nauseous.


    Captain Liang smiled. Ive been working as a cop for years, and Ive indeed encountered things that cant be exined by science, so Im not as conservative as you think I am. If we need your help in this case, I do hope that you guys will give us a hand.


    No problem. However, you must follow the principle of our business. The item will belong to us, I said.


    What item? Captain Liang was bewildered.


    I gave him a brief exnation about otherworldly items. After listening to me, Captain Liang nodded. As long as it follows legal procedures, its not a problem to give it to you. All right, we should go now. Lets check the corpses.


    I asked Yin Xinyue to stay and chat with Fengshen Nana, but she wasnt pleased. Its been a long time since Ist encountered something exciting.


    As we walked, Li Mazi whispered to me, What does he mean by legal procedures?


    I shook my head. Lets not talk here. Its not the first time weve got involved with the police. Also, Im not sure if an otherworldly item is behind this.


    We went to the morgue and saw several beds. The corpses of the robbers were covered with sheets of white fabric. The fluorescent lights in the room were on, which were apanied by a gloomy atmosphere all around. Two forensic doctors were chatting andughing. They pulled themselves together when they saw Captain Liang.


    Hows the autopsy going? asked Liang.


    Were still waiting for the test result from theb, but we have the preliminary result One of the doctors handed him a piece of paper. Captain Liang read it then handed it to me.


    The autopsy result reported that all the corpses had been dead for more than forty-eight hours. Livor mortis had appeared on their bodies. Their livers and pancreas had necrosis. The basic conclusion was that they had consumed poison.


    Then, the doctor lifted the white fabric to reveal one of the corpses. The body had been opened at the chest and abdomen.


    We found something in the corpses abdomen, said the forensic doctor.


    He grimaced and kept silent for a long moment before cing a te in front of us.


    Lying dead on the te was a mucus-covered, gray mouse. Its eyes and ears were stitched closed, exactly as I had guessed.


    Mr. Zhang, youre incredible. Captain Liang gave me a thumbs-up. But how did you know that the corpse had a mouse in its stomach?


    Because in this world, only the shamanic Soul Jar Technique can do that, I answered.


    Whats that? asked Captain Liang.


    It dates back to the history of Shamanism.


    The oldest religion in China was Daoism. However, it was just within the Han ethnicity. Strictly speaking, Shamanism was the true oldest religion.


    Shamanism believed that there was a spirit vein underground that had been there for thousands of years. When ones life reached the end, their soul would gather in this spirit vein. The shamans had to absorb energy from this underground spirit vein to perform their magic techniques.


    To perform the Soul Jar Technique, a small-sized animal would be put into the victims body. Snakes or mice would be the best since they had their nest underground, meaning that they had a close rtionship with the earth.


    Once those small animals entered the victims stomach, they would turn the body into a Soul Jar that could absorb the energy from the spirit vein to revive itself. The caster could control the body through the animals.


    I had read this from a book my grandpa left me


    After listening to me, Captain Liang was convinced. Ive always thought that these things were just used to deceive old people. I cant believe theres so much knowledge behind this. Today, my view of the world has truly widened!


    Then, he said, Mr. Zhang, can you trace the ringleader through these corpses?


    It won''t be easy. The culprit is a cautious one and left no clues on the corpses. Officer Liang, could you help me figure out these peoples identities first? I requested. These people must have contacted the murderer when they were alive. If he could trick them into drinking poison, they must have had a close rtionship with the culprit. Moreover, you should investigate children under five years that have gone missing during thest few years.


    Captain Liang believed in my skills now. He nodded and said, Ill send my people to work on it right away.


    Then, well part from here.


    I gave him my contact information and asked him to notify me when he got a lead.


    We left the police station, and Li Mazi drove us home. On the way back, Yin Xinyue told me quietly, Nana seems to like Captain Liang.


    Why didn''t I see that? I didnt expect Yin Xinyue to like gossip this much.


    Its my intuition as a woman. The way she looks at Captain Liang is different from the way she looks at the others, said Yin Xinyue.


    I didnt have a bad first impression of Captain Liang, either. He was capable and efficient, and became captain despite being very young. He was an outstanding young man in the Criminal Police Force.


    Li Mazi was more interested in the otherworldly item. Is this the work of an otherworldly item? How much could it be worth?


    I dont know. But ever since Ive worked in this business, Ive experienced a lot of different cases. My intuition has never been wrong.


    When we returned to the shop, Li Mazi bought two bottles of wine, and Yin Xinyue cooked some dishes.


    After dinner, Li Mazi went home. Yin Xinyue started to watch a Korean drama on myptop, while I carefully took the book my grandpa had left me, which had a chapter about Shamanism. Unexpectedly, I found a Corpse Subduing Talisman inside the book.


    I was excited. Following the instructions that my grandpa had noted down at the corner of the page, I mixed rooster blood, lead powder, and water ink. I then cut a piece of yellow paper that was three inches long and one inch wide, starting to draw on it.


    A spirit talisman was different from a calligraphy drawing. It would work if the one who drew it had some cultivation. If someone with no cultivation drew a talisman, it didnt matter how beautiful the drawing was. It was just an ordinary piece of paper.


    It was also simple to test if the talisman could work or not. I just needed to quietly read the incantation and ce the talisman between my index and middle fingers. If the spirit talisman suddenly turned rigid like a knife, it worked. If not, it was just a piece of ordinary paper.


    I used a few bundles of yellow paper to create around ten Corpse Subduing Talismans. It wasnt a bad result.


    I kept drawing until my shoulders were stiff. When I checked the time, it was 11:00 PM.


    Yin Xinyue was yawning, so I asked her if she wanted to go home. She stretched her arms and wrapped them around my neck. In a seductive voice, she said, No, I wont go home. I want to stay with you tonight.


    I only have a steel spring bed here. You should go home and sleep on your big Simmons bed.


    I want to sleep on your small, steel bed!


    Then, Yin Xinyue buried her head in my chest. I felt a little restless. Honey, this shop is my grandpas inheritance. If we act rashly, we will provoke my grandpa.


    Yin Xinyues voice grew softer. Then, why are you still hugging me?


    Since I had always been busy, I didnt spend quality time with Yin Xinyue as ofte. <em>All right, no matter what, my grandpa has been yearning for a great-grandson. Hes a big man with a big heart. Im sure he wont me us!</em>


    Right when the atmosphere was right, my phone rang.


    I picked up the call, and Captain Liangs hurried voice came from the other end of the line. Mr. Zhang, things are not good. The robbers corpses came back to life!

 Chapter 340: The Strange Drumbeat

    Chapter 340: The Strange Drumbeat


    I told Captain Liang that I woulde immediately. I changed my clothes and grabbed the Corpse Subduing Talismans I had just drawn. When we walked out of the house, I called Li Mazi.


    The three of us gathered at the police station. While getting out of his car, Li Maziined, Little Brother Zhang, why do you always call me when Im having a nice moment? Its really annoying.


    Why are you so mad? Were you doing something with Ru Xue? I sniggered.


    Since Yin Xinyue was here, Li Mazi immediately denied it. No, its not that. We were cleaning the house. I was cleaning the ss window panels and then you called me


    Oh, you guys were cleaning the house during thiste hour? What a hard-working couple!


    The police station was bustling with officers rushing back and forth. They were busy making calls and writing reports. I pulled Fengshen Nana, who was passing by. What happened?


    Youre also here? Fengshen Nana was surprised. Something very bad just happened. While the officers on night duty were chatting, they heard ss shattering. They immediately checked around to see if someone had deliberately done that. In the end, they found that the morgues window was broken, and the robbers corpses were gone. At first, they thought that the culprit hade to destroy the corpses and the evidence, so they called the criminal force. When the enforcement team came, they started to search around.


    Fengshen Nana continued, What they discovered was shocking. Three corpses were hanging from a tree in a park nearby. One was found in the toilet, with its head clogging the toilet bowl. Also, you know how one of the robbers had been crushed by a truck? That one crawled to the Evidence Department. Another corpse hid under the stairs. He used a steel wire to prick his ears. It was a horrible mess.


    Did they do that on their own? Did you check the CCTV cameras? I asked.


    I checked them. Before 10:30 PM, everything was normal. From 10:30 to 10:35 PM, snowkes appeared in front of every camera, and I couldnt see things clearly! Fengshen Nana said.


    Fengshen Nana had worked with us when we dealt with two otherworldly items, so she asked, Mr. Zhang, what do you think? Are they still alive or did the ringleader do something again?


    I thought about it then said, I think they are resisting


    Resisting? Resisting what? Fengshen Nana was skeptical.


    Take me to see Captain Liang first, I said.


    All right, follow me. Fengshen Nana led the way.


    Captain Liang was in the morgue. He rubbed his face and looked absentminded as he observed the corpses that they had just rescued. When he saw me, he briefed me about the situation. I pulled the white sheet that was covering a corpse, and the scene was indeed messy.


    Could you please check these bodies ears? I said to a forensic doctor.


    The forensic doctor asked Captain Liang for permission before using a shlight to show me the corpses ears. It was as I had guessed. All the bodies had their eardrums forcefully broken. From the traces that were left, it was determined that they had self-inflicted the injuries.


    Fengshen Nana gasped when she heard it.


    Captain Liang looked at me, his eyes solemn. Mr. Zhang, do you know what this might mean? Could you tell me why the six dead bodies pierced their eardrums?


    These people died a tragic death and were then controlled. This must have generated arge amount of resentful energy. They wanted to break their eardrums to get rid of something, probably a sound that controlled them, I exined.


    Fengshen Nana suddenly remembered something. Old Xu in the duty room told me that he heard someone beating a drum outside at around 10:30 PM. He thought that some people were holding a funeral service, but it was strange as it was night time. He looked through the window but didnt see anything outside.


    The beat of the drum controlled the dead bodies, I said.


    Captain Liang shook hands with me. Mr. Zhang, thank you so much for your help. I know what to do now.


    He asked Fengshen Nana to check the nearby traffic surveince cameras to find the person beating the drum. However, I felt that the chance of finding the culprit was slim. That guy was too cunning.


    Since he had thought about destroying the corpses, it meant he couldntpletely control the otherworldly item in his possession. It could be that the otherworldly item was too strong, or perhaps he wasnt that good.


    I said to Li Mazi, We should hit the iron while its still hot. We should also look for the murderer. Go and get me refined salt, eels, a bucket, sand, and thin iron wire.


    Shoot, its reallyte. Where can I get those? Li Maziined.


    Captain Liang smiled and said, Weve got a lot of random stuff in the storage in the Evidence Department. Ill take you there. Ive also got a friend in the Social Security Force. Ill call him to get us some eels.


    Remember, they should be big and fat eels! I advised.


    Unfortunately, the traffic cameras didnt record anyone ying the drum. At around 1:00 AM, Captain Liang brought us the items we had requested. He asked the other officers to clock off and go home.


    Li Mazi sighed with emotion. Its not easy for you guys to work as cops. When an unexpected situation happens, you have to stay up the whole night.


    Sudden situations are normal to us. Captain Liang smiled and checked his Type 54 pistol. Ill be staying with you tonight.


    I will, too. Fengshen Nana volunteered.


    However, Captain Liang asked her to go home.


    I chimed in, Nana has worked with us before. Shes experienced this sort of situation and can help.


    Captain Liang looked at Fengshen Nana and half-believed it. Since Fengshen Nana secretly admired her superior, she appreciated my help and shot a grateful nce at me.


    Yin Xinyue whispered, You always look dumb, but now youre giving a hand to fulfill someones wish! By the way, are we going to stay in the morgue tonight?


    Are you scared? If youre scared, Ill ask Li Mazi to take you home, I said.


    No, Im not scared! Yin Xinyue said. Then, she hugged my arm.


    It was very cold in the morgue. Captain Liang was worried that we would freeze, so he went to the office and fetched us some quilts.


    After everything was ready, I told them the n.


    My grandpa had taught me a set of skills that I could use to interrogate corpses. However, I never had the chance to use them. Tonight was the chance to apply my knowledge.


    The principle behind it was simple. A person who often rides a bicycle automatically pedals without thinking about it. This is because of a concept called muscle memory. The dead also retained their muscle memory. As long as we could use a secret technique, we could force the dead bodies to disclose information about the situation they had experienced before their death!


    I took out the eels and the thin steel wire from the bag. Then I gave them to Li Mazi along with some small bells I had prepared. I asked him to arrange these things outside the office. He had to tie the steel wire around the small park near the police office. Before doing that, the bells had to be attached to the eel-blood smeared wire. All the bells and wire had to be secured.


    Li Mazi forced a smile. Little Brother Zhang, you always give me trashy jobs. Its after midnight, and you want me to tie a wire outside the police station. If someone sees me, they would think that Im about to bomb the ce


    How about we let Yin Xinyue do it instead? I said that on purpose.


    No, thats not good. My sister-inw is fragile. Just leave this heavy job to me. Li Mazi waved his hand.


    After Li Mazi went outside, I repeatedly rubbed refined salt over a corpse. After washing the corpse, I found a pen and put it into his hand. Then, I put the hand into the bucket full of sand.


    Afterward, I used a knife to cut an eel and used its blood to drawplicated symbols. Actually, I could draw anything as I just needed to smear the eel blood all over the corpses chest. At first, I wanted to draw a picture of Hello Kitty to make Yin Xinyue happy. But as Officer Liang was here, I had to pretend to be an aloof master. With an earnest face, I drew two formations on the bodys chest. I didnt even realize what kind of formations they were.


    After preparing everything, we wrapped ourselves in the quilts and waited in the morgue.


    Yin Xinyue and Fengshen Nana were both gossipy and quickly became friends. Yin Xinyue bragged about the events she had experienced, which made Fengshen Nana gasp in awe.


    Sister Xinyue, Im going to tell you an interesting story, Fengshen Nana said. Do you know what this plot ofnd was before it became a police station?


    No, I dont. Yin Xinyue shook her head.


    They say that this piece ofnd used to be a small vige where an old woman lived. Her son traveled to do business, and every month, he sent her money. Her neighbors admired her for having such a filial son. But one day, the authorities came and knocked on her door. They gave the old woman her sons head. It turned out that her son wasnt a businessman. He was a gangster in Jiangyang and was beheaded. The old woman cried her heart out and fainted. That very night, she hung herself andmitted suicide. Her neighbors pitied her, so they buried her. After that incident, the people that lived in the area often said that at night, a headless man would kneel in the graveyard and sweep an old womans grave. Everybody said that he was the womans headless, filial son! Fengshen Nana said mysteriously.

 Chapter 341: The Odd Story of the Beheaded Man

    Chapter 341: The Odd Story of the Beheaded Man


    Fengshen Nana continued, Since then, the ce was no longer peaceful. This police station was built after the reform period. Then, one night, a young officer was on his duty when he suddenly heard someone walking in the corridor.


    The officer immediately drew his pistol and went there to check.


    The footsteps seemed to be going toward the storage room. The policeman was startled because the storage room was the ce where all the firearms and bullets were kept. If someone had the guts to steal from the police station, he had to act soon and stop that person at all costs.


    He pushed the hefty door of the storage room open and saw a headless person kneeling on the ground, digging up the cement floor with his bare hands.


    The officer sweated in fear and shot his gun at the sky. The headless man heard the sudden boom. He quickly jerked up and ran for cover behind some shelves, disappearing into thin air.


    The same things happened many times over the years. The headless man kept on digging the storage rooms ground. He scared many policemen in the span of a dozen years or so, and some even had heart attacks


    Later on, the police learned about the story of the filial, headless son. They decided to dig up the foundation of the storage room, and as expected, they found an old coffin that held the remains of an old woman. It was more than a hundred years old.


    The police properly buried the old womans remains on a foggy morning. A headless man stood in the fog and bowed three times to the policemen. Then, no more odd sightings were registered at this police station.


    While I listened to her, I concluded that the police stations geomancy was pretty bad.


    Police officers were a sort of imperial force. In ancient times, they were known as bukuai and were a bunch of murderous people. As such, even if they were bolder, ghosts wouldnt have dared to enter this ce under normal circumstances.


    When I entered the station, I did notice that the building was in a bad location. It faced the intersection on both sides. In geomancy, this setting was called Heart-Piercing Overflowing Yin. People couldnt live in a structure like this. If this ce werent a police station but a school or a hospital, paranormal activities would have been registered barely a month after its construction, and people would have died on a daily basis.


    While telling the story, Fengshen Nana took a look at Captain Liang, who was sitting in a corner. She found his expression odd. Captain Liang, are you sleepy?


    No. Captain Liang gave a dry cough. Nana, stop talking about ghost stories. Dont you think this ce is scary enough?


    Fengshen Nana blushed and said, Sorry.


    Her eyes turned to me; I guessed she wanted to tell me something.


    I looked down and checked my watch.<em>What... Half an hour has passed already. Why hasnt Li Mazi returned yet?</em>


    Im going out to look for Li Mazi.


    Yin Xinyue wanted to go with me.


    This police station was in the suburban area of Wuhan, and everything was pitch-ck at night time. To add more green in this area, they had nted a lot of locust trees. The original geomancy of this building wasnt good, and now the ce was surrounded by Yin-type trees. I wondered if those police officers were too bold or simply ignorant.


    I had to turn on my phones shlight. Yin Xinyue held my hand and followed me.


    I found that Li Mazi had tied the wire already. The bells on the wire would jingle as soon as they sensed waves of Yin energy. However, all of them were still right now.


    I felt my scalp go numb and rushed to check them out. All the ppers had been taken out, and there was some sticky liquid on the bells, which looked like pus.


    Not good. The murderer is right here! I screamed in fright.


    Brother Zhang, look over there! Yin Xinyue hissed. A dark shadow was making its way toward us through the forest of locust trees. I knew he was Li Mazi from his appearance and clothing. However, he didnt say a word no matter how loud I called him.


    My palms grew mmy, and I grabbed the Sirius Whip. I took out a stack of Corpse Subduing Talismans and put half of them in my pocket, giving Yin Xinyue the other half. When you see someone strange, just stick a talisman on their forehead.


    Yin Xinyue was puzzled. This paper doesnt have any glue. How would it stick on someones head?


    Dont worry. The paper pulp was mixed with glutinous rice water. As soon as it meets an undead, the rice water will melt and be sticky, I exined.


    Yin Xinyue nodded.


    When Li Mazi was around a dozen meters away from me, he suddenly raised his hands and jumped toward me. I arched my brows.<em>Hes possessed!</em>


    I immediatelyshed at him with the Sirius Whip. However, Li Mazi ran away.


    Stop! I screamed as I chased after him.


    Li Mazi ran really fast amidst the dark forest. I borrowed the lights of a passing truck to improve my aim. After reciting the Big Dipper Sirius Spell, Ished at Li Mazis back with the whip.


    The whip coiled around Li Mazis ankle, and hended on the ground with a loud thud when I pulled.


    I stormed forward and put the whip around his neck despite his struggles. I checked his breathing; it was normal. I then checked his eyelids; it was good that the white of his eyes was also normal.


    Are you okay? I asked.


    Li Mazi desperately motioned at his ear and mouth. I finally understood that he couldnt hear nor talk.


    Curious, I pried his mouth open. His tongue was stiff and as hard as a rock. It seemed someone had used magic to control it. I immediately picked up a twig on the ground and pricked it thrice. Li Mazi spat some ck blood then screamed in pain.


    I almost choked! That bastard, if I find him, I will skin him alive! Li Mazi fumed loudly.


    I asked Yin Xinyue for a mineral water bottle. I burned a talisman and ced the ashes in the water. I then used the water to wash Li Mazis ears. Eventually, his hearing was recovered.


    What happened?


    Once I had tied all the bells, I was about to go back to the police station. Suddenly, someone called me from behind, and I instinctively answered. When I turned around, I saw a man wearing a ck sweater. He seemed to be holding something in his hand.


    It was apparently a small drum. When the man hit the drum, Li Mazi suddenly lost all hearing. Li Mazi felt that the opponent was too strong, so he ran for his life.


    While rushing through the forest, he suddenly saw Yin Xinyue and me. He was very excited. However, I used my Sirius Whip to attack him as soon as I saw him. He had to turn around and escape because of this.


    I furrowed my brow. <em>What kind of drum is that? He just hits the drum and people lose their hearing and speaking abilities?</em>


    Where did you meet that man? I asked Li Mazi.


    On the way back to the police station. Li Mazis expression changed. Is he going to the police station?


    Damn! Captain Liang and Nana are still there. Hurry, we have to get to them! I ordered.


    I also advised Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue not to answer if someone called them. Otherwise, we would not be able to bear the consequences.


    Fengshen Nana and Captain Liang were gone when we returned to the morgue. Their quilts still were on the chairs, and the robbers corpse was also there.


    Ill try to call them! I hurried to take my phone out.


    However, Li Mazi suddenlynded on his butt, his face frightened. A strong gust of cold wind shook the morgues windows, and the white sheet covering the corpse on the bed suddenly moved, just as if the body would stand up in the next second.


    Then, I suddenly found that the corpses hand that held the pen was vibrating. It began to move in the sand bucket, eventually writing one character.


    It was the character for injustice!

 Chapter 342: Fighting Zombies Under the Moonlight

    Chapter 342: Fighting Zombies Under the Moonlight


    My method had worked, but we didnt have time to interrogate the corpse as two people from our group were missing.


    I dialed Captain Liangs number. However, the call had a strong interference; it seemed as if a strong maic field had affected his phone. I couldnt hear what he was saying.


    The only thing we could confirm was that he and Fengsheng Nana were all right.


    Li Mazi patted my back. Little Brother Zhang, look here. This bastard is writing something!


    I lifted my head to see a group of words in traditional form written on the sand. Kangxi murdered my whole family!


    After writing this, the corpse suddenly sat up, and his pair of white eyes looked straight at me. The whole thing was so scary that I began to sweat.


    <em>Did a soul possess this corpse?</em>


    That otherworldly item was close by, and it was filled with resentful energy. That was why it could borrow the corpses mouth to tell its story.


    The corpse began to shake hard, writing the word injustice on the sand again. However, he was shaking too much and eventually fell from the bed. Lying on the ground, his hand continued writing the same word.


    Lets go. We should find Captain Liang and Nana. I raised the shlight and left the morgue. We searched on several floors. When we reached the corridor of the third floor, someone suddenly shouted at us, Freeze!


    I raised my hands as a pure reflex. Captain Liang walked out of the darkness, firmly holding the pistol in his hands. He lowered the gun when he recognized us.


    Why did you leave the morgue without telling us?


    Fengshen Nana heard some footsteps outside, so we decided to go and check. But then she disappeared while we were checking around.


    Where did she disappear? I asked.


    Right on this third floor. Shes not answering her phone, so I could only look for her, Captain Liang answered.


    While he was talking, Yin Xinyue pulled my shirt, shivering. It seemed she was trying to show me something.


    Standing in front of me was Captain Liang, but there was nothing wrong with him. Yet, Yin Xinyue still looked anxious.


    Look up there! Theres something up there!


    I lifted my head and was a mans corpse attached to the ceiling. His neck was stretched, and his eyes stared at us without blinking. A drop of sticky liquid lingered at his open mouth, just about to drip.


    Officer Liang immediately opened fire, but the corpse moved as swiftly as a lizard on the ceiling and the walls around us. Some lights were smashed, and a piece of hot ss fell right on my neck; I screamed as I felt the heat.


    While I was trying hard to get rid of the broken ss inside my shirt, Li Mazi screamed, Watch out!


    Then, a heavy body fell on me. That walking corpse had just jumped on me, trying to bite my throat; his ttering teeth were right next to my ear. I had to use both hands to push his face away.


    His entrails were spilled all over me since the forensic doctor had already cut open his abdomen. No need to tell how nauseous this scene was!


    Hurry, use the Corpse Subduing Talisman! I said to Yin Xinyue.


    However, a hand grabbed Yin Xinyues arm just as she was taking the talismans out of her pocket. Another walking corpse had popped up right behind her. Yin Xinyue shrieked the moment she saw his scary face, and the talismans were scattered on the ground.


    The walking corpse swiftly pinned Yin Xinyue down and opened his mouth to bite her. Captain Liang blew his jaw off with a shot and his teeth were scattered all over. The walking corpse didnt have a mouth to bite anymore, so it grabbed Yin Xinyues arm and pulled her away along the corridor. Yin Xinyue struggled and screamed for help.


    Li Mazi! Hurry up!


    I screamed for help while mustering all my power to resist the walking corpse. Li Mazi shakily picked up a talisman. He then licked it several times to make sure it would stick on the corpse. Unfortunately, the yellow paper was very thin, and it tore apart as he licked it.


    Li Mazi looked at me with innocent eyes.


    I was so angry that I wanted to curse him loudly. I couldnt believe that my own teammate was trying to bring me down!


    Captain Liang held his pistol, sweating while he aimed at the walking corpses head. But all of a sudden, a pair of hands broke the window ss nearby and started to strangle him. Captain Liang dropped the pistol, and his eyes bulged as he tried to break free.


    The image of Yin Xinyue being dragged away triggered something in me. I somehow managed to kick the corpse away and tried to pick up a talisman. But the corpse jumped on me once again and sank his teeth into my flesh. The pain was unbearable.


    The walking corpse was stuck to my back like a leech. Still, I gathered all of my strength and crawled on the ground. Eventually, I got my hands on a talisman. I turned and pped it on the corpses forehead.


    The walking corpse stopped moving, but it still twitched from time to time.


    I picked up the other Corpse Subduing Talismans on the ground and stuck one on the corpse pulling Xinyue away. The corpse fell on the ground like a heavy rock.


    Then, I pulled Yin Xinyue up. She was so scared that she jumped up and hugged me tightly.


    Li Mazi was trying to help Captain Liang; they were struggling against the corpse outside the window. That corpse was really strong since he could overpower the both of them and pull them towards the window, which caused the window frame to shake hard. I stuck two talismans on his arms, and the corpse directly fell from the third floor, leaving a lot of disgusting corpse wax on me.


    While wiping his forehead, the panting Li Mazi said, Little Brother Zhang, where did you get these talismans? They work like a charm! Give me some of them!


    And you still have the face to ask me! I kicked Li Mazi, who hurried to dodge. The talisman form my grandpa had left me was really powerful, but I was running out of talismans fast. I only had four left, so I had to use them wisely.


    Captain Liang adjusted his clothes and said, This is truly dangerous. Its the first time Ive ever encountered something like this.


    This is just the beginning. We have yet to face the real danger! I told him.


    As soon as I said that, a series of drumbeats sounded in the corridor, reaching everyones ears. Li Mazi cursed, This fellow is really bold. He dares to y some drums in the police station. He doesnt respect our peoples officers!


    Whos there? Show yourself! Officer Liang called sternly. He lifted his foot and was about to go there and check.


    No, dont go there! I hurried to stop him.


    Then, a gust of wind blew over. The two walking corpses on the ground shivered, and the Corpse Subduing Talismans stuck on their bodies pulsated as if they were resonating with the heartbeats. They moved up and down repeatedly.


    All of a sudden, the talismans turned into powder, and the walking corpses slowly got up. Li Mazi was quite agitated. Your talismans dont hold up for long! Do you have something else thatsts longer?


    Dont talk nonsense. Run!


    We hurried down the stairs. Once we descended to the next floor, Captain Liang suddenly turned back. Then I heard a rumbling sound.


    The police station had installed sliding steel gates for emergency cases, and Captain Liang had just locked one gate. When the two walking corpses arrived, they could only hold and shake the gate; fortunately, the steel barrier was sturdy enough and didnt break.


    I took out a talisman and attached it to the lock of the gate. The walking corpses were forced back. They tried to jump forward again, but the talisman acted once more. After three times, the Corpse Subduing Talisman started cracking.


    My grandfather had told me that all methods to forcefully subdue evil spirits had a limit. The best way to deal with them was to either ferry their souls or to use evil to fight evil.


    I suddenly had an idea, so I told the others, Get to the morgue!


    Are you crazy? asked Officer Liang.


    Theres a corpse in the morgue. We can use him to deal with these walking corpses, I said confidently.

 Chapter 343: The Number One Warrior of the Qing Dynasty

    Chapter 343: The Number One Warrior of the Qing Dynasty


    I immediately took everyone back to the first floor. When we passed by the duty office, Captain Liangmented, Weird.


    Why is that? I asked.


    Captain Liang replied, The police station always has people on night duty. Why is no one here tonight?


    Our enemy this time is too cunning. Since he dares toe here, he can easily take care of those officers on duty. We should be on high alert.


    We rushed to the morgue without sparing a second. Officer Liang led the way; Li Mazi was in the middle, while Yin Xinyue and I were right behind them. I kept the Corpse Subduing Talisman at hand in case something unexpected happened.


    While walking, I felt as if someone was behind me. I quickly looked down to check the ground; sure enough, there was an extra shadow.


    I immediately turned around... and sighed with relief when I saw it was Fengshen Nana. Nana, when did you find us? Why the silence?


    Brother Zhang, she she doesnt look right! Yin Xinyue sounded fearful.


    I soon noticed Fengsheng Nanas strange appearance thanks to Yin Xinyues reminder. Her face was covered in tears, her eyescked focus, and both of her hands were firmly holding her pistol.


    Slowly, she raised the weapon and aimed at us. It seemed her mind was clear, but she had no control over her body.


    Nana, put the gun down! Captain Liang shouted and took out his pistol.


    Dont shoot! Shes being controlled I hurried to pull Officer Liang back to prevent him from acting rashly.


    Fengshen Nana tried to shake her head. It seemed she was trying her best to resist the force that was controlling her, but she was helpless.


    Then, an ear-splitting gunshot resounded, and I instinctively closed my eyes. When I opened them, I found Fengshen Nana gasping for breath as she slumped to the ground. Blood was streaming from a hole in her shirt.


    The sudden gunshot had stunned all of us.


    I looked askance at Captain Liang,pletely baffled. Smoke was stilling out of his gun.


    This woman was pointing her gun at us. I had to do that to prevent any unexpected things from happening, Officer Liang said. I spotted the trace of a sneer on his face. It became clear that he was just posing as a righteous and nice man. This was his real face.


    He was still young and had already climbed up the ranks to his current position. I guessed that hed taken down many rivals along the way. This sort of man could sacrifice anybody for his own benefit.


    I hated being unable to punch him right then. All things considered, he was still a police officer, so I could only suppress my anger.


    I went to check Fengshen Nanas wound. The bullet had pierced through her belly, and blood had soaked her clothes. She curled up on the ground while her body convulsed. Her mouth whispered, Cold Its cold...


    What are you waiting for? Call the ambnce! I shouted at Li Mazi while taking off my jacket to cover her up.


    Li Mazi returned to his senses. He hurried to take out his phone and call for help.


    I scooped Fengshen Nana up and took her to the morgue. The corpses inside the morgue were all gone, and only the corpse that I had interrogated remained. He was still writing on the sand; Officer Liang had almost shot him when he noticed him.


    Although the atmosphere was gloomy, it was still the safest ce at the moment. We covered Fengshen Nana with the quilts. Although her life was not in danger, she was really weak, which would make it easy for the murderer to control her once again! I crumpled two Soul Subduing Talismans and used them to stuff her ears.


    There was only one talisman left. I bit my lip and discreetly handed it to Yin Xinyue so that she could protect herself.


    Mr. Zhang, theres someone outside! You should figure out a way to deal with those walking corpses! Captain Liang said as he guarded the door. Not once did he ask about Fengshen Nanas wound since we entered the morgue; I pretty much hated the man at this point.


    Li Mazi,e give me a hand, I said. Then, I untied the corpse and cut open an eel to pour its blood into the corpses throat.


    After a few seconds, the corpse stopped writing and started to shake hard. I asked Li Mazi to hold the corpse down, then I told Yin Xinyue to get me a pair of scissors. I pricked eight small holes on the corpses neck.


    Shamanism believed that the human soul was like a tree that took root in ones chest and used blood as nourishment. The tree would grow and emerge through your head. That was why men considered their queues their life during the Qing dynasty. Cutting their queues off was no different from having their souls severed.


    Right now, I was trying to release the soul inside the corpse. Since it wasnt being controlled by the drumbeat, it seemed that a departed soul from the Qing dynasty had taken possession of it.


    This was a really dangerous method as the soul could attack us if it was evil. If that happened, we wouldnt have to worry about our next meal anymore. Still, I had to give it a try since it was our only ray of hope.


    The corpse suddenly opened his eyes. They werent white and opaque anymore; it was a pair of bright and high-spirited eyes. He gazed at me and asked, Who are you? Why am I here? Wheres that dog emperor? I want to kill him!


    I suddenly had a sh of inspiration when I heard this. Are you Ao Bai, the Number One Warrior of the Qing Dynasty?


    You dare call my name? Are you tired of living? the corpse said with a snarl, baring his teeth.


    It seemed I wasnt wrong. He had been one of the greatest contributors to the Qing dynasty. However, he had be too arrogant after achieving several merits... that was why Emperor Kangxi had plotted to kill him! He was the great chancellor Ao Bai!


    The reason why I could pinpoint this easily was because of the intimidating vibe of the soul attached to this corpse. Such an aura was just a bit less intimidating whenpared to Xiang Yu, the Hegemon King of Western Chu. Moreover, people living in the Qing dynasty had been indoctrinated with the idea of beingpletely loyal to the monarch. Since he was really formidable and dared to curse at the Qing emperor, it could only be Ao Bai.


    I coaxed him while he was trying to get up, telling him that the dog emperor had sent a team of his elite imperial guards to ambush him outside; he would have to defeat them if he wanted to leave.


    Ao Baiughed crazily once he heard that. Haha, they are just some guards from his imperial pce. I can easily tear them apart. Im the Number One Warrior of the Qing Dynasty!


    But then, Ao Bai suddenly sobbed, catching all of us off guard. <em>Hes crying andughing at the same time. Is he all right?</em>


    I gently called him, Mr. Ao?


    Ao Bai sighed. Kid, you dont need to deceive me. I know I died. Just tell me honestly, does this nation still belong to the Aisin Gioro family? [1]


    No, not anymore. Five hundred years have already passed, I told him after some thought.


    The world has changed so much in the blink of an eye! Ao Bai looked at the sky, sighing. Could you please tell me how people in recent generations think about me?


    Oh, the recent generations talk about you as


    Li Mazi feared that I would tell him the truth. He jumped in and said with a ttering tone, Our generations praise you for being the greatest and most loyal official! You were even more loyal than Yue Fei! Still, it was unfortunate that corrupted people brought harm to you. Several years ago, a book about your life called the Duke of Mount Deer was published. It presented you as unparalleled, strong, and loyal. You were a righteous official of the imperial court. Its a touching and moving book, indeed.


    Li Mazi shot me a nce. I waspletely convinced and overwhelmed by this ttering skill of his, able to persuade both the dead and the living.


    Ao Bai said with emotion, Turns out this old man is now in a book. History preserved my name. Good, very good. It seems that people imed the justice I was owedter on. My one regret is having served under that despicable Kangxi. He betrayed my loyal heart.


    Then, all of us heard someone banging on the door. Officer Liangs face turned pale. Damn, those walking corpses are here!


    You bold evil scum! Ao Bai suddenly shouted and jumped up from the bed he was sitting on. He kicked the door open; the morgues door couldnt bear his kick and copsed on top of one of the corpses. Ao Bai stormed forward like a tiger. We then heard the sound of bones breaking. A corpse had been torn in two!


    His strength was formidable.


    There were records of Ao Bais exploits when hemanded the army. Some alleged that on one asion, he killed the enemys soldiers with his bare hands when his saber gave out.


    He had killed more than fifty and torn more than a hundred. All of his soldiers and peers were stunned. Thats why Emperor Hong Taiji had ordained him as the Number One Warrior of the Qing Dynasty.


    As the other two walking corpses saw this, they bared their teeth and stormed toward Ao Bai with arms extended. Ao Bai was like a small mountain, standing firm as he fought against them!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aisin_Gioro

 Chapter 344: The Culprit Showing Up

    Chapter 344: The Culprit Showing Up


    The remaining two walking corpses didnt dare to fight Ao Bai head-on. They stuck to the wall and moved back and forth. Ao Bai was enraged; he grabbed one of them and forcefully pressed the corpses head in its thoracic cavity.


    With a puff, the walking corpses head was sunk deep into his chest. The scene made sweat stream down my face. Fortunately, Commander Ao was our ally.


    The other walking corpse howled like a wild animal and stormed forward. Ao Bai rose to the challenge with a louder roar. He directly punched the walking corpse away. The punch was so strong that the corpses blood sshed everywhere as it hit the wall. The scene looked extremely scary.


    Ao Bai still had anger to spare. He sat on top of that corpse and punched it, creating noises like those heard when a butcher chopped off a massive chunk of frozen pork. Our scalps were numb with fear.


    One punch, two punches In the end, the walking corpse had be a mess of crushed meat. It convulsed and then stopped moving.


    Ao Bai turned to look at us, his eyes as ferocious as those of a blood-thirsty beast. Wheres the rat that imprisoned me inside that drum?


    Right in this building. Ill help you find him! I answered while shivering. Then, I asked Yin Xinyue to stay and keep an eye on Fengshen Nana before leaving with Ao Bai and Li Mazi. We were going upstairs.


    We searched the second floor and the third floor, but we had yet to see the murderers shadow. On the way, Ao Bai finished off the walking corpse that had been torn into two halves as he was still crawling on the ground. I wondered what the officers would say the next day when they entered the station and saw this mess in the corridors. I really wanted to see the faces they would make.


    You lowly creature, show yourself!


    Ao Bai stood in the main buildings office. His raging scream made us cover our ears, and his resentful energy summoned a powerful gust of wind, just like one seen when a Ghost King appeared.


    Li Mazi lowered his voice to ask me, Little Brother Zhang, how could Ao Bai get out of that otherworldly item? I dont think weve ever encountered this situation before.


    I smiled, telling Li Mazi that he still had to learn a few more things. Actually, otherworldly items could be categorized into two kinds.


    The first kind was the otherworldly item that had been with its owner for quite a long time. After the owner died, one wisp of their soul would remain attached to the item they loved the most. For example, the pair of embroidered shoes, the ancient mirror from the Tang dynasty, and even the Thunder Sword of the Hegemon King of Western Chu, to name some.


    The second kind was also the most malicious one. To create this kind of otherworldly item, the user had to catch and restrain a departed soul in some tool and refine that tool into an otherworldly item. For example, the legendary Chi Yous bone carriage. This sort of otherworldly item had the strongest resentful energy, which also made it the hardest to deal with.


    In historical records, after Kangxi had caught Ao Bai, Ao Bai was so angry he had vomited blood and died in prison. It seemed he didnt rest in peace after he died. Apparently, someone had used his corpse to make a small drum. That was why his resentful energy had umted and had yet to disperse. Automatically, he considered the owner of the otherworldly item his archenemy.


    While we were searching on the fourth floor, Ao Bai suddenly cried, Demon!


    What?


    Ao Bai pointed at the celebrity posted on the wall. It was Maxim Gorkys portrait and his quote, Books are the stepping stones to human progress.


    Ao Bai sternly asked me why we had a picture of a demon there and whether he was a wanted criminal.


    We couldnt help butugh. Then, Ao Bai suddenly roared angrily, his eyes bulging. I was sobered up by fear right away, thinking we had offended him somehow. Right after, we heard drumbeatsing from somewhere.


    Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump!


    The mysterious drum beats were clearly discernible, just as if someone were ying a drum in our ears. Ao Bai clutched his head with both hands, grunting in pain. It seemed as if he had a head-splitting headache.


    I will kill you! He suddenly dashed away. A scar-faced man wearing a ck sweater emerged from a dark corner. He continuously banged an old drum he was holding.


    Although Ao Bai was full of resentful and murderous energy, he didnt have the power to resist this drum. Before he could touch the man in a ck sweater, we all heard the cracking noise as his arms were twisted into strange angles.


    Then, his legs also broke. Ao Bai knelt in front of that man, gasping for breath and grunting in pain. However, he couldnt control his body; he started to bang his head on the ground as the drum became louder.


    It seemed he didnt sense any pain as he eventually split his head open. His brain was scattered on the ground, but he kept pounding his head. I was appalled by the power of this wicked otherworldly item, but it wasnt the time to be a coward.


    I drew the Sirius Whip andshed at the man in ck. He sneered as his hand kept on hitting the drum. After a serious rattling and thumping noise, Ao Bai spurted a big puddle of small, ck insects. Together, they filled and swarmed the corridor like a rising ck tide. Li Mazi was scared silly by this and quickly hid behind me.


    Little Brother Zhang, what the heck are those?! Li Mazi cried.


    Dont be scared. Its just some corpse worms, I said.


    Corpse worms were born while the corpse was refined. They were simr to maggots as they were also a kind of parasites living off the dead bodies.


    I wielded andshed my Sirius Whip, trying to kill the worms on the ground. However, there were too many of them; they were like slugs that continued to approach us and crawl up to our shoes. Li Mazi and I stomped to smash them. The popping sounds and the sticky, mucus-like substance they left behind were really disgusting.


    That mysterious man had disappeared while we tried hard to finish off those corpse worms.


    I spotted an open window, so I went over to check. The man was riding on a corpse that crawled and slithered like a lizard. They soon disappeared into the woods nearby.


    Damn! I punched the wall.


    A few minutester, the ambnce arrived. They gave Fengshen Nana a quick check and took her to the hospital.


    It was 4:00 AM already.


    Officer Liang took us out of the police station. All of us were exhausted. I just wanted to go home, take a warm bath, and have a nice sleep.


    Mr. Zhang, I still have a question. Even if that man wanted to destroy the corpses to erase the evidence, he didnt need toe to the police station alone, right? Captain Liang was puzzled.


    Could it be because the money he robbed is being kept in the police station? I asked.


    Its a lot of money, and its not safe to keep it here. I will ask my people to count and return the money to the bank this afternoon, said Captain Liang.


    I furrowed my brow. That mans goal was still a mystery to us.


    We could only see how things evolved and act ordingly.


    I suddenly remembered something while waiting for a taxi. I turned to Captain Liang. Please, pay attention to this. In the next two days, you might find the dead body of a five to seven years old child found in Wuhan.

 Chapter 345: Courtier Drum

    Chapter 345: Courtier Drum


    Captain Liang didnt believe it. Mr. Zhang, youre saying that the murderer killed a kid as well? Why would he do that? Is the murderer some sort of maniac killer?


    Yin Xinyue would never tolerate such things. She pouted her lips and chimed in, If this is true, hes really a raving lunatic.


    I shook my head. No, theres a reason behind the childs death.


    Under normal circumstances, the one using a powerful otherworldly item would receive a serious bacsh if the item was used excessively. If the user wasnt careful, his vitality would be damaged; in the worst cases, he would lose his life! To protect himself, it was possible to keep and raise a child like his own. This would form a parent-child rtionship between them, and the boy or the girl would receive that deadly bacsh from the otherworldly item in the users stead.


    A childs resistance was clearly inferior to an adults. Since he had used his drum without any restraint tonight, the bacsh would definitely be deadly. That was why I guessed the kid he was keeping would receive the bacsh and die. Although it was a cruel thing, it was an important clue to find the murderer.


    Officer Liang nodded after listening to my exnation. Its indeed an important clue. Ill pay attention. Oh right, Mr. Zhang, do you know what that otherworldly item is?


    I shook my head.


    After we got in the car and left the police station, I told Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue, Actually, I do know the origin of that otherworldly item


    That thing was the Courtier Drum.


    Rumor said that after Emperor Kangxi captured Ao Bai, he had listed thirty crimes Ao Bai hadmitted to justify the search of his house and confiscate his possessions. Shortly after, thirteen famous generals under Ao Baismand decided to rebel. They gathered their military forces at the Shanhai Pass and prepared themselves to overthrow the emperor.


    Ao Bais subordinates were tough generals with ample battle experience, and the Eight Banners armies were no match for them. After several battles, Kangxis army was still unable to destroy the rebellious force, and two of his uncles were killed.


    Seeing the rebellious force was about to strike the imperial city, Emperor Kangxi was as anxious as an ant on a hot pan. A shaman in his pce suggested using Ao Bais and his oldest sons skulls to make a Courtier Drum with a secret shamanic technique. They could use that drum to subdue the rebels.


    The Qing dynasty had originated from the Jurchen people, whose main religion was Shamanism.


    Kangxi listened to the shamans suggestion. They made the Courtier Drum and discreetly ordered a eunuch to take it to the frontline. A few dayster, horrible things happened to the thirteen rebellious generals. Six of them died unexpectedly, four killed themselves, and the remaining three fled to Korea.


    As one could guess, the Courtier Drum had the power to subdue and control people. However, the people under its control would generate strong resentful energy, and the energy would harm the one using the drum.


    Although Emperor Kangxi had defeated the great rebellious force, not long after, the eunuch who had used the drum died tragically; his entire body swelled up with horrible pustules.


    With such an unexpected side effect, Emperor Kangxi decided to seal that drum deep in Mount Changbai, pledging never to use it again. Since it was an ambiguous and odd story, it wasnt included in the official historical records, but the unofficial records did register this fact. And now, there was finally real proof that the Courtier Drum existed.


    After listening to me, Yin Xinyue asked, Why did you feign ignorance when Captain Liang asked you? Dont you believe in him?


    We all saw what he did tonight, so I dont think hes trustworthy. We should better be on guard when dealing with him from now on! I said sternly.


    Li Mazi said, I agree. I have never seen anyone as cold-blooded as he is. Well solve this ourselves. We dont want him to stay behind and stab our backs when were not paying attention. Little Brother Zhang, how much could this Courtier Drum go for?


    I ignored him as I was worried about whether I would be able to handle that drum with my strength. It would be much better if Zen Master Baimei or Chuyi were here. However, as those twos whereabouts were always unknown, we couldnt always contact them.


    After we arrived at the shop, I asked Yin Xinyue to cook some glutinous rice so that I could extract the corpse toxins from my back. It took 250 grams of glutinous rice to extract all the toxins in my body. Yin Xinyue wrapped my wound after disinfecting it; that would be enough to keep me safe.


    A few days passed by. There was no information from the police station, and I kept on reading the books my grandpa left in the shop during those days to find a solution.


    One day, Fengshen Nana suddenly called me. Even though she had my number, she had never called me before. She was still in the hospital, and I wondered if it was something serious.


    Fengshen Nana asked me to meet her at the hospital, telling me that she wanted to discuss something important.


    I couldnt say no, given the stern tone of her voice. I drove to the hospital and was preparing to see her bedridden with many tubes injected into her body. Contrary to my expectations, she could already leave her bed and walk. However, she needed to stay there for a few more days for the doctor to observe her wound.


    It was a bullet wound, so the hospital had to report this to the police. The Criminal Police force had investigated and ended filing this as firearm identally gone off. Well, we now knew the way Captain Liang worked.


    Fengshen Nana invited me to sit down once I entered her hospital room. She poured me some warm water and offered me a Fuji apple. I gently declined.


    She looked less tough and cuter when she wasnt wearing a uniform. Her long, ck hair was held in a ponytail behind her back, giving her the look of your typical girl next.


    Why the sudden need to see me? Did something happen? I asked.


    Fengshen Nana scanned the surroundings. It was midday, and there was only one patient sleeping in the corner. She lowered her voice and said, Mr. Zhang, do you remember the story of the filial headless man?


    I do. What about it? I was puzzled.


    Captain Liang was among those who got to see that filial headless man. He was also the one who asked people to unearth the mothers coffin in the storage. Still, he didnt react at all when I told you guys that story. Its really strange. Fengshen Nana looked at me in the eyes.


    I suddenly understood. You mean that the Officer Liang we saw is an impostor?


    I thought about it all night, and the more I think about it, the more I feel that somethings off. Did you ever notice that Officer Liang didnt sweat at all? asked Fengshen Nana.


    I recalled this fact the moment she mentioned it. That night, we had to run up and down and gasp for breath. Indeed, Captain Liang didnt even sweat a drop.


    Was it really a disguise?


    Impersonating another person was a serious crime, and we could end in jail if we were wrong and Officer Liang pressed charges for false usations.


    Fengshen Nana, are you sure about it?


    I know Captain Liang, and he would never shoot his own people! Fengshen Nana was emotional.


    I gave her a slight nod. Dont tell anyone else about this. You should be careful. Focus on recovering to leave the hospital fast, okay?


    Captain Liang called me as soon as I walked out of the hospital. They found two dead bodies this morning, a little girl and a little boy in the suburban area of Wuhan. We also found an important clue for this case. Well probably catch the murderer tonight. You muste to the police station this evening.


    I agreed and got in my car. I then sent Li Mazi a short message, asking him to prepare something for me.


    I wanted to call Yin Xinyue, but then I thought that it would be really dangerous. Moreover, she was really busy these days since herpany had just invested in a new drama. I decided not to tell her.


    When I reached the police station, Officer Liang had been waiting for me for quite a long time. He took me to the morgue as soon as I arrived.


    The two kidsy on the bed, and their bodies were covered in pustules of various sizes. One of them had a rotten pustule on their throat that was now a hole so big we could see the trachea inside. One nce was enough for me to feel nauseous; I didnt feel like having dinner anymore.


    The forensic doctor reported that the deceased were covered with poisonous wounds; they had apparently died of renal failure.


    Being the shield of that drum user, I knew that the two kids had been tormented a lot while still alive.


    If his shields had been left in that state, I could imagine how the user would look like at the moment. His body was probably full of lumps and pustules.


    Captain Liang was quite angry and cursed, What a filthy bastard! I will make him pay for this!

 Chapter 346: The Cheng Brothers

    Chapter 346: The Cheng Brothers


    Once we left the morgue, I asked Officer Liang, You told me over the phone that you found something important. What is it? Could you tell me?


    Follow me, Officer Liang waved his hand, taking me to his office where he handed me a yellow file.


    The file had the photos and profiles of the six bank robbers. Captain Liang told me that the policemen of the Criminal Police force had investigated and figured out that these six men were migrant workers that were hired at a construction site.


    The foreman of said construction site told them that the six robbers had sworn to be brothers when they introduced themselves, and their friendship was apparently really good. However, honesty was not their strong suit; they were fired after they were caught stealing steel materials at the construction site at night time. They ended up bing a bunch of thugs that roamed around, robbing and stealing. They got used to being arrested on a regr basis. All in all, they were just a group of unemployed vagrants.


    Captain Liang pointed at one of the photos. This was the leader of the gang, Cheng Xiaohu. He had an older brother called Cheng Dalong, and the two didnt get along well. Thats why Cheng Xiaohu rarely went home.


    Cheng Dalong lives in a small vige not far from here. Several years ago, he got very sick, but his family didnt have the means to cover his medical fees. Then, all of a sudden, he made a fortune and his sickness was cured. People in the vige said that one year ago, there was a strange man with two kids who visited him. They also stayed for quite a long time. Thats why I suspect Cheng Dalong.


    I handed back the file to Captain Liang, asking, Then, how will you justify the arrest?


    Ive requested a search warrant based on suspicion of murder. I think he murdered those six gangsters, replied Captain Liang.


    But he still has that otherworldly item. If you are this direct, he will risk his life to fight you. If worsees to worst, everyone will die, I said anxiously.


    Thats right. This is why I want you toe with me. Captain Liang smiled. We shouldnt waste any time. Lets leave tonight!


    All right. I nodded, suddenly recalling something. Captain Liang, is there any grudge between Cheng Dalong and you?


    Why are you asking this? Captain Liang squinted, looking more vignt. Although it only was a brief change on his face, I was quick enough to notice.


    He then chuckled. I understand. Are you suspecting that this person sneaked into the police station at midnight to harm me? Well, I am the Captain of the Criminal Police force, and Ive surely offended a lot of people. Its not strange that someones holding a grudge against me.


    I felt that he wasnt telling me the truth. However, it wasnt the right time to ask more. I would need to consider the situation as we progressed.


    Right at this moment, we heard some noise outside, so we went to the corridor to check. Two policemen had stopped Li Mazi, preventing him from entering the building. Li Mazi was holding two intable dolls under his arms, a snakeskin bag with his left hand, while his right hand was pulling a big rooster. The officers didnt allow him in since he looked really suspicious.


    Yin Xinyue was also with him.


    Captain Liang hurried to rescue Li Mazi.


    Yin Xinyue, why are you here? I asked her.


    Yin Xinyue pouted her lips. I went to the shop as soon as I clocked off and saw that it was closed, so I called Li Mazi. It turned out that you were at the police station... Do you think Im a burden to you?


    Yin Xinyue stuck her tongue out, her fingers pinching the skin on my arm.


    I didnt want you to be in danger, I exined.


    Im not a kid. I can protect myself. Yin Xinyue smiled.


    Li Mazi dropped the things he was carrying and wiped his forehead. Little Brother Zhang, next time, you should buy these things yourself! Even a traffic cop stopped me on my way here. He thought I was a deviant the moment he saw me with this stuff, so he lectured me for a long time before he let me go!


    We have to use these things tonight? asked Captain Liang.


    I nodded and opened the bag to check. Two sets of official uniformsQing dynasty stylehemp rope, bone powder, and eels. He had managed to gather everything, so I quicklyplimented Li Mazi for it.


    Whats this for? Yin Xinyue pointed at the intable dolls, trying to hold herughter.


    Youll know soon, I said mysteriously.


    Do you want some policemen toe with us?


    No, the chances of being discovered would only increase with more people. It would be more dangerous that way; the four of us are enough.


    The three of us got in a car while Captain Liang drove his own. After half an hour, we arrived at Cheng Dalongs vige.


    The sun had yet to set. Several idlers were sitting at the vige entrance, smoking and chatting; they became curious when they saw two cars arrive. Captain Liang approached them, casually attempting to find some information about Cheng Dalongs whereabouts. He was wearing civilian clothing at this time.


    What do you want to see Dalong for? said one of the men, his greedy eyes staring at Yin Xinyue. To move easier, Yin Xinyue had chosen to wear a pair of shorts and a loose, pink T-shirt, which entuated her hot figure.


    She didnt feel ufortable since she had gotten used to peoples stares. But I wasnt pleased with this.


    I am Captain Liang didnt know what he should say. Li Mazi quickly offered them some cigarettes, smiling brightly. Im from a real estatepany. They are my clients. Mr. Cheng said that he had a house he wanted to sell. Were here to take a look at his house.


    Oh, that damn Chen Dalong! I wonder where he made such a fortune. Now, hes about to move to the city, and who knows if hell give something to his neighbors, the idler said as he spat on the ground. He pointed in a direction. See that house? Cheng Dalongs house is the most conspicuous house in this vige.


    He then added more information, Cheng Dalong used to breed pigs in his house and earned money with them around the vige. However, he doesnt do anythingtely; he only stays at home doing who knows what. Whatever it is, he earns a lot of money.


    We thanked that man and drove to the area near Cheng Dalongs house. This vige was quite poor. We saw shabby brick houses along the way and paddy fields full of weeds. Only Cheng Dalongs house was bright with light. We even heard disco musicing from the inside.


    Li Mazi said, This fellow sure has an easy life. I wonder if hes using the otherworldly item to make a fortune.


    Captain Liang rolled his window down and asked, Should we go inside?


    Just park nearby. We have to prepare something first.


    After that, we packed our cars in a piece ofnd rife with tall grass. After checking around and confirming that no one else was there, Li Mazi and I took the stuff out of the car.


    I inted the two dolls and tied them to a tree branch so that they stood firmly in the field. I then used eel blood to write Ao Bai and his sons names on the dolls. Afterward, I dressed them in the Qing dynastys official clothes.


    In the end, I pricked the roostersb and soaked several cotton balls with the blood. I gave the cotton to the others and told them to use it to plug their ears.


    Rooster blood had the strongest Yang energy amongst all animals. It would be able to fend off the Courtier Drums effect. I asked them not to answer if someone called their namester.


    Yin Xinyue couldnt set her mind at ease. Are we going to meet some ghosts tonight?


    No, we are not. Then, I gave her the hemp rope, which also had rooster blood on it. You should stay here. Just wait until the intable dolls are possessed. You have to tie them with this hemp rope. The tighter the better.


    And you said we wouldnt see ghosts tonight! Yin Xinyue was scared.


    They are two good ghosts, I promise! I smiled.


    First, we needed to extract Ao Bai and his son from the Courtier Drum, which would reduce the power of the drum. Then, we would enter the house to capture Cheng Dalong. After that, we would have to improvise.


    Suddenly, Li Mazi said, Little Brother Zhang, that fellow turned off the lights. Im sure he noticed us


    Hurry! I urged.


    Captain Liang suddenly became vignt when we ran to the western-style house. Somethings wrong.


    Right after, several people got out of the house. They were the idlers who gave us directions at the entrance of the vige. Li Mazi hurried to ask, Hey guys, are you taking a stroll? Have you had dinner yet?


    Not good, their eyes look strange! I shouted.


    Those people grabbed wooden sticks and machetes, then rushed toward us. Li Mazi shrieked in fright, running away immediately.


    Captain Liang was about to fire a warning shot, but I grabbed his arm. It wouldnt work, and it would expose his identity as a cop.


    People living in a small vige like this were often conservative. They would keep to themselves and cover for their own. If the police showed up, all the vigers would round up to stop them. We would be unable to fix the problem if it came to that.


    The fleeing Li Mazi came back, looking even more horrified. Theres a group of people behind us. They all have machetes!


    We were basically about to be sandwiched.


    Helpless, I nced at Cheng Dalongs house. We should go in there!

 Chapter 347: Pig Dung Can Expel All Kinds of Evil

    Chapter 347: Pig Dung Can Expel All Kinds of Evil


    The moment he heard my words, Captain Liang ran toward the wall and climbed it. It was good that he still had some conscience. Once he made it safely to the top of the wall, he stood up and reached down. Quick, give me your hands. Ill pull you up!


    He pulled me up first, then both of us helped Li Mazi. At this moment, two groups of vigers had gathered outside the house. They were like an army, shooting us hostile looks. All of them had weapons.


    We had just pulled Li Mazi halfway when he screamed. Damn, they cut me! They cut me!


    We hurried to pull him up. Li Mazi was pale and visibly panicked. A machete had been stuck deep in the sole of his sports shoe. He cussed as he plucked the de off.


    Not good, theyre trying to climb the wall, said Captain Liang.


    I craned my neck and saw several men climbing their way up. That two-meter wall would not deter them for long. I handed the bag of bone powder to Li Mazi; I asked him to sprinkle some on the face of anyone who got close. Then, I took out some Corpse Subduing Talismans and stuck them on the wall. Several pairs of hands touching the wall jerked away. It seemed they were being controlled by some otherworldly item.


    Save us! Please save us! Someone was shrieking like a pig being killed outside the wall. Li Mazi and I exchanged nces. We seized the chance to take a look. The scene outside the wall was incredibly chaotic.


    Two groups of vigers were killing each other. One man used a brick to pound at anothers forehead. That poor fellow was bleeding a lot. Another viger chopped off his opponents fingers with a machete. The rest of the vigers without a weapon simply pounced over other people to bite them. I got to see a man biting off another mans ear.


    As odd as it was, they screamed for help while killing themselves. They apparently couldnt control their bodies.


    Rolling with the night wind, I heard the sounds of the Courtier Drum echoing from inside the house. I turned and saw Captain Liang already rushing into the western-style house.


    Is that the way our police work? Li Mazi scolded, then turned to me to ask, Little Brother Zhang, should we save them or not?


    I gritted my teeth. I couldnt just stand and watch them die, could I? I could ignore otherworldly items, but I had to save people.


    I said through gritted teeth, Lets save them!


    How? asked Li Mazi.


    I looked around and found an empty pigpen. There was a pile of dung that seemed to have been there for quite a long time and also a white iron bucket on the ground. Since it was an emergency situation, I told Li Mazi to quickly fill the bucket with dung.


    What should we use to scoop the dung? asked Li Mazi.


    Our hands! I answered.


    This is really disgusting. I cant do that! Li Mazi felt like retching.


    Damn, Ill do it then! I rolled my sleeves and scooped the dung to fill the bucket. I asked Li Mazi to spray bone powder into the dung before I stirred it with my bare hand. The stench was unbearable, and I almost puked.


    I asked Li Mazi to look around to see if he could find any garlic or onion. Soon, Li Mazi came back with a few dried green onions. I could only frown and say, Crush them and squeeze the juice into this bucket!


    Filthy substances could be used to expel evil. However, I wondered if the pig dung could create an effect simr to the one produced by human feces. However, as it had onion and bone powder, it could work somehow.


    Next, I asked Li Mazi to open the gate. We stood there and sshed the dung on anybody who rushed in. At one point, the vigers killing each other had be a group of dung-covered humans. Li Mazi couldnt hold it anymore. He ran to the side and retched.


    However, my n worked, and the vigers finally stopped fighting. As many of them were wounded, I asked Li Mazi to call an ambnce.


    I shook the bucket. There wasnt much dung left; I had to be careful with the sshes.


    Right when I thought I could exhale in relief, a cold light shed in front of me; I stepped aside out of reflex.


    I had missed one of the vigers. He was the idler that had talked to us at the vige entrance. He was holding a long knife and had red eyes. His jaw was clenched so hard that I could hear his teeth grinding.


    I felt a hot twinge in my shoulder, so I turned to check. There was a bloody gash roughly ten centimeters long on my shoulder. Blood dyed my entire arm red.


    As both of my hands were covered in dung, neither the Sirius Whip nor the Corpse Subduing Talisman would work. I could only call Li Mazi for help.


    Li Mazi had picked up a rake from somewhere; he screamed and rushed forward. Since the rake had better reach, the other man couldnt approach us for the time being.


    Little Brother Zhang, look at my three-meter rake! Dont I look awesome with it? Li Mazi bragged. Then, we all heard a crack, and the rake in his hand was cut into two halves.


    Li Mazi was panic-stricken. He threw the rake away and ran around the courtyard.


    I cursed at him loudly. He wasnt serious at all!


    Anyway, that man was too scary. I could only follow Li Mazi and run away.


    We got into the house and mmed the anti-theft door shut, but the sharp machete pierced through the door slit and scared us to death. The machete was swept back and forth through the slit for quite a long time before it was retracted. I asked Li Mazi to peep out through the door, but he shook his head hard, not daring to approach the door to check. Then, we heard a loud boom, and the anti-theft door shook once more. The idler was kicking the door from the outside.


    A crack appeared in the anti-theft door after it was kicked three times. That mans strength was really shocking.


    The proverb said that a single man could hold the pass against ten thousand enemies.


    Peoples potential was much greater than what we could imagine. I used to watch a TV program where a master hypnotized a man then ced him on two chairs with his body suspended in the middle. Then, the master asked three people to sit on him. The hypnotized man was as still as an iron sheet and didnt waver in the slightest, even with three people sitting on him.


    The Courtier Drum was the same. It could control peoples bodies and bring out all of their potential!


    Just as the anti-theft door was about to give in, we heard a gunshoting from the house. The drumbeat gradually stopped. I gathered my courage and peeped through the door slit. The idler was clutching his head in pain.


    I took the chance and opened the door, pressing the man on the ground. Li Mazi kicked his knife away.


    The drumbeat sounded inside the house again. The man wiggled so hard that the two of us werent enough to suppress him. I asked Li Mazi to take out the Corpse Subduing Talisman in my clothes. He thrust his hand into my shirt and took out a handful of talismans. Just then, as the man was struggling hard, Li Mazis hand shook, and all the talismans flew into the pile of pig dung.


    At this time, I really wanted to stab him to death!


    The idler struggled hard, and I felt as if I was subduing a wild horse. When we couldnt hold him any longer, a Corpse Subduing Talisman was pped onto his forehead. The man immediately stopped moving as if he was paralyzed.


    I lifted my head and saw that it was Yin Xinyue. I was both happy and worried.


    How are you going to thank me? Do you still think that Im useless? Yin Xinyue felt quite proud of herself.


    I asked, Why are you here? How about those two intable dolls?


    Not long after you guys left, the two dolls began to move. It was scary, but when I asked them if they were Ao Bai and Young Master Ao, they nodded to me.


    She then did as I had ordered. She used the hemp rope to tie up the two intable dolls. The two spirits werent willing to let her tie them and struggled quite a bit. However, she stillpleted her task.


    Once she was done, she heard the loud noiseing from the house, so she rushed to see. She arrived right when Li Mazi and I were pressing that viger on the ground. Not giving it much thought, she stuck the Corpse Subduing Talisman I had given her before on the mans forehead.


    I couldnt imagine the consequences if she hadnt shown up. My anger rose again when I thought about Li Mazis ipetence.


    I deliberately said, Li Mazi, theres something behind you!


    Oh? What is it? Li Mazi hurried to turn around.


    I took this chance to squarely kick his butt, which helped me vent my anger a little bit.

 Chapter 348: Entering the Tigers Den

    Chapter 348: Entering the Tiger''s Den


    It was pure mayhem, but none of the vigers had fatal wounds. I used the tap in the yard of the house to wash my hands while Yin Xinyue cleaned the wound on my shoulder, sprinkling some Yunnan powder over it before wrapping it. I moved my arm, and although It was a bit painful, it didnt hinder my movement.


    I said, The ambnce will arrive soon. We should seize the moment to get in there and find Cheng Dalong!


    Officer Liang had kicked the door open, so we directly entered the living room of the western-style house and groped around to turn on the lights. However, there was no power; perhaps someone had turned off the main power switch.


    In the end, the three of us had to use mobile phones to light the way and search around.


    The house was one big mess. It was moldy, with cans and packages of frozen food scattered on the floor. Li Mazi checked the fridge, which was full of frozen meat and vegetables. This Cheng Dalong is a homebody that doesnt go beyond his door.


    I think he just doesnt want the folks here to see his face, I said with a snort.


    The Courtier Drum produced a powerful bacsh, and he had overused it to satisfy his needs. At this time, he had likely turned into some kind of monstrosity. I could imagine him with a face covered in pustules.


    <em>Why did he have to do this?</em> I asked myself.


    There was no one in the living room, the kitchen, or the bedroom, so we went to the bathroom. The bathtub had been filled with some sparkling green water that exuded a strange smell simr to oriental medicine. Perhaps he had used it to cure the pustules on his body. Li Mazi lifted his head to look at the crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling.


    Tch tch, these parvenus. Once they get a hold of some dirty money, they hate that they cant openly show their wealth to the world. What kind of rubbish taste is this? Why hang a crystal chandelier in the bathroom?


    While Li Mazi was speaking, a female hand jutted out of the green water in the tub; water sshed on Li Mazis body.


    Yin Xinyue and I were stunned.


    Yin Xinyue covered her mouth, pointing at the space behind Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi didnt notice anything. Huh? Do I have something on my body? Little Brother Zhang, did you get pig dung on me when you were throwing it around? Ru Xue bought me this shirt. Its worth several thousand Aaah!


    Li Mazi saw the hand as soon as he turned to check. He shrieked in fright and grabbed a stainless steel pipe that was part of the towel holder. I stopped him when he was about to hit the woman.


    She seems to be alive, I said.


    Soon, a naked woman emerged from the greenish water. She was hugging her knees while she sat in the tub. Her long, wet hair covered her face, which didnt allow us to see her features clearly. However, I noticed the painful pustules on her arms and legs. She didnt have a square inch of healthy skin.


    Are you here to catch him? The woman sighed deeply. He can no longer live after the crimes hesmitted. He only regrets it when hes at a dead end. Its toote. Toote!


    Maam, how are you rted to Cheng Dalong? I asked.


    The woman didnt answer, but her hands were protecting her belly. Yin Xinyue waved at me, whispering to my ears, Shes pregnant.


    I took a closer look, and she was right. We could tell from her exposed body that she was roughly seven-months pregnant.


    Stupid man, losing everything for a fight. The woman rubbed her belly. This is the fourth already


    Then, she stood up from the bathtub. Yin Xinyue reached for the bathrobe nearby and covered her. Li Mazi and I turned around to avoid seeing her. Li Mazi quietly pointed at his head, as if telling me that the woman had some mental problem.


    The woman moved quickly, like a creepy ghost. I soon heard crackling noises from the staircase. Suddenly, thedy began to sob, which was rather frightening in this eerily silent house.


    Hurry, lets go and check on her!


    We rushed to the stairs, and there was a blood streak on the floor near the stairs, leaving a trail that led to a room. We entered the room and saw the woman on the floor in a puddle of blood. A pair of scissors had been stabbed into her belly. A man covered in pustulesy next to her. He had a bullet hole on his forehead, but there wasnt much blood. It seemed he had died moments before.


    Call for help! I freaked out.


    Yin Xinyue knelt next to the woman to check. Shes not in danger yet. But the scissors stabbed deep into her abdomen, and the amniotic fluid has started leaking. Im afraid she wont be able to keep her baby.


    I checked around. There were three ss jars on a wooden cab where three malformed, dead babies were being kept in some liquid. We finally understood what she meant by the fourth already. Even if this baby came into this world, it wouldnt survive for long.


    Actions led to consequences. It seemed that Cheng Dalong had done too many misdeeds, and not even the heavens wanted him to have descendants!


    Li Mazi found a pistol on the ground, but I stopped him when he was about to pick it up.


    Then, it dawned on me that we had stepped into a wicked trap.


    Officer Liang had killed Cheng Dalong while we were fending off the vigers. He took the Courtier Drum with him and escaped through the back door, leaving his pistol here.


    He wanted us to shoulder his crime!


    I was sure that the police would flood this house soon. We would never be able to prove our innocence if they found our fingerprints on that gun. Although Cheng Dalongs wife was there, she wasnt in her right mind. She couldnt testify in our favor.


    If it was before, I would have dumbly stepped into this trap. However, I had been exposed to many cunning and wicked conspiracies since then; I could be considered a real expert at the moment.


    I told Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue about this strange situation. We shouldnt touch anything. We have to leave this ce immediately.


    We hurried to get downstairs. Li Mazi asked behind me, Little Brother Zhang, dont you feel that theres someone else in this house?


    Dont think too much, just hurry up


    I turned around to check out of habit, and I was so scared by what I saw that my eyes almost fell off. While Li Mazi was looking around, a man in police uniform was standing quietly behind him. When Li Mazi turned to the left, that man moved to his right. When Li Mazi turned to the right, that man moved to his left, always keeping himself in Li Mazis blind corner. He was like a ghost clinging onto Li Mazis back.


    Its strange. I still feel that someones here. While Li Mazi was mumbling, the person behind him quietly opened his mouth, aiming at Li Mazis neck.


    Dodge! I kicked Li Mazi to one side.


    Li Mazinded on his butt,ining loudly, How many times have you kicked me today? Brother Zhang, if you have something you want to tell me, just talk! Dont just hit me all the time, okay?


    While talking, Li Mazi suddenly stared at the space behind me.


    Brother Zhang, move! Yin Xinyue screamed.


    I heard someone inhaling behind me, and I immediately rolled forward.


    Right after, a loud bang echoed. That man had just tried to bash my head with a wooden red tea table. I was lucky to have reacted fast, or else my head would have been smashed.


    As soon as I turned around, I saw the one who had just ambushed me. His face was burned, his skin rotten, and his gums exposed. He was wearing a tattered police uniform, but we could clearly recognize Captain Liangs figure.


    However, his current appearance was that of a zombie that had been dead for years!


    I hurried to check my chest and remembered that all the Corpse Subduing Talismans had been ruined. I cursed eighteen generations of Li Mazis family once again.


    The zombie opened his bloody mouth and stormed toward me one more time, but Yin Xinyue struck him in the head with a big flower vase. The zombie was enraged; he turned and jumped toward her. Yin Xinyue screamed and ran fast to escape.


    I jumped and held the zombies neck from behind, but this fellow was super strong despite being very thin. He raised his hands and hurled me to the ground. It was such a strong fall that I thought my rear had broken.


    I groped on the ground and fortunately caught a piece of electric wire. I tried my best to pull it and coil it around the zombies neck.


    I saw the wire under the wall being pulled and coiling around the zombies neck. No matter how hard he tried to break free, he couldnt get rid of it and chase after Yin Xinyue. I couldnt help but praise the bronze-core electric wire for its good quality!


    But then, the zombie slowly turned around, baring his white teeth and growling at me. His eyes were like two rednterns, shing a dangerous light in this dark room.

 Chapter 349: Officer Liangs Secret

    Chapter 349: Officer Liang''s Secret


    My back was soaked with sweat as the pair of strange eyes gazed at me. I hurried to grab the broom and give his face a drubbing.


    The zombie stretched out his arms in the air to catch my broom. Just then, I noticed how his fingernails were long and curved like sharp hooks. It was often said that even after death, hair and fingernails still continued to grow; it looks like it was true.


    We were still lucky that the corpse had turned into a zombie only recently, a few years ago at most. If it were hundreds of years old or a thousand years old, Im afraid we would all be doomed.


    I called Li Mazi while I moved around the room, asking him to help me lure the zombie to the bedroom. We could lock him there.


    How can I lure it?


    Find a knife and cut your finger. Drip the blood and make a trail with it all the way to the bedroom. Zombies always have a big desire for blood.


    However, as soon as I said that, the zombie swept my broom away and fiercely jumped on me. I quickly leaned against the sofa and used both of my legs to push him back. The zombie screamed and howled.


    Li Mazi, quick! Come help me! I screamed.


    Li Mazi grabbed the electric wire hanging on the zombies back and pulled back hard. However, the zombie just happened to move in the same direction, which caused Li Mazi to fall backward.


    Afterward, the zombie dragged Li Mazi around the room as he was still holding onto the electric wire. Save me!


    I picked up the broom again and tried to attract the zombie. However, it was moving too fast. I couldnt do anything for a while. Suddenly, the wire hooked onto something and made the zombie stop. I raised the broom and smacked the zombies head, breaking the aluminum alloy broomstick in the process.


    The zombie was mad and tried to strangle me.


    Little Brother Zhang, Iming!


    Li Mazi struggled to get up, then pulled the electric wire. The zombie was forced back and roared, both of his arms swinging in the air.


    It looked like a scene from Lin Zhangyings movies, where the main characters always had to wrestle with zombies. I always felt excited whenever I watched this part of the movie, but I now understood how strenuous it was.


    Little Brother Zhang, I cant hold it anymore. If you have any magic tools, please use them now! Li Mazi whined.


    You still have the guts toin! Put up with it for a while. Im going to the kitchen to get some weapons.


    As soon as I turned around, I saw the ck muzzle of a pistol aimed at me. I subconsciously reached for the sky with both my arms.


    That woman actually came downstairs. She was holding the pistol with both hands, and although her body was still bleeding, her eyes were full of murderous intent.


    You killed him? Did you kill Dalong?


    No, it wasnt me! I answered shakily.


    The woman shifted her pistol to Li Mazi. Before she could ask, Li Mazi blurted, No, it wasnt me! It was him! He did it!


    While talking, Li Mazi pointed at the zombie.


    Im going to kill you! The woman gritted her teeth and pulled the trigger. She fired several times; the shots were so loud that my eardrums hurt. The bullets opened a few big holes in the zombies body.


    The creature growled in pain and fought back. He tore the electric wiring, jumped onto the wall, and pounced on the woman. The woman struggled with all her might, while her cries and screeches echoed in the room.


    Brother Zhang!


    Yin Xinyue rushed in, holding a Corpse Subduing Talisman she had picked up outside. I received the talisman and quickly pped it on the zombies back. The zombie stopped moving.


    Once we pushed the zombie aside, we saw that the womans throat had been bitten. There were tworge holes in it, and her eyes had rolled to the back of her head; she was dead.


    I felt a deep regret as I looked at this tragic scene.


    Hurry, we have to leave this ce. We wont be able to exin the situation if the police get here.


    As soon as I said that, we heard the vrooming noise of a car engine. There was a fire outside the window, lighting up the dark night.


    <em>Crap! Did that fake officer burn our car?!</em>


    We saw Captain Liang driving away when we rushed to where our car was parked. The intable dolls with Ao Bai and his sons souls were set on fire.


    When I started my car, I found that the tires had been stabbed.


    Bastard! I cursed.


    Didnt Officer Liang turn into a zombie? Who was driving that car? asked Yin Xinyue.


    The real Captain Liang was turned into a zombie long ago, and the one who was with us was an impostor all along. Hes using some transfiguration skill, I guess. He took advantage of us to get the Courtier Drum, I said, feeling irritated since we had been duped.


    Right at this moment, a boys voice came from afar, Follow me.


    We followed the source of the voice and found a little Daoist boy with a braided ponytail waving at us. This sight made me happy; it was Chuyis little assistant. Since he was there, Chuyi had to be near.


    At this moment, the polices ear-splitting siren was hearding from the vige entrance. We hurried to escape with the Daoist boy.


    We followed closely as the little man scurried away with quick steps. There was not one bit of light as we went further in the woods, and we could only see the little boy running ahead of us. He was so fast that we were gasping for breath as we did our best to keep up with him.


    Li Mazi couldnt take it anymore. He panted as he said, Little guy, where are you taking us?


    Hurry, my brother is waiting for you guys.


    The Daoist boy stopped for a moment and pointed to a direction where we saw a sh of light. Then, he continued running as he guided us through the darkness.


    It was difficult for us to run on this bumpy path through the forest. Our clothes were being torn by the tree branches, and Yin Xinyue had almost tripped once.


    Finally, we crossed the forest. In front of us was a small slope, but the little Daoist boy moved as if it were t ground. I knew he was a ghost that Chuyi kept with him, thus it was understandable that nothing physical would impede his way.


    We reached a deserted road after descending the mountain slope, and a white sports car was parked there. The light in the car was on, allowing us to see Chuyi sitting in the drivers seat. I knew he was rich, but he had always kept an aloof lifestyle. That was the first time I had ever seen him in a luxurious car.


    However, he looked no different even while he sat in that car. If Li Mazi or I were driving around in this luxurious sports car, people would think that we were parvenus that had made a fortune mining coal.


    Chuyi pushed the car door open and asked us to get in.


    He threw me a fabric bag once we got inside; it was glutinous rice. Yin Xinyue told me earlier that I had gotten hurt, and when I touched my neck, my fingers were covered in ck blood. The zombie had managed to scratch me.


    I quickly used the glutinous rice to extract the corpse toxin.


    Li Mazi sat in the front passenger seat, touching here and there. How much did you pay for this car? Can you find a maintenance service for it in the Maind?


    Chuyi didnt answer, but he adjusted the rearview mirror so that we could see his eyes in the back.


    Wheres the little Daoist boy? Why didn''t he get into the car? Yin Xinyue asked.


    I dismissed him, Chuyi answered indifferently.


    Dismissed him? Yin Xinyue looked at me in surprise.


    I muttered to her, Ill tell you when we get home.


    Chuyi, why are you here? I then asked.


    I also wanted to ask you the same thing. I got a new client, and Im after the Courtier Drum. I didnt expect to see you here, answered Chuyi.


    Why didnt you show up earlier? That zombie almost killed us,ined Li Mazi.


    He was always with you, and I was afraid I would alert him. Thats why I didnt show up. Now, the time was right, answered Chuyi.


    Are you talking about the guy impersonating Officer Liang? I asked.


    Chuyi nodded. His name is Cheng Xiaohu. Hes Cheng Dalongs younger brother!

 Chapter 350: The Suicide Forest

    Chapter 350: The Suicide Forest


    Chuyi took this opportunity to exin the real story. The Cheng brothers had lost their parents when they were very young. They had gone through all kinds of hardships to fill their stomachs. Gradually, they chose to walk on the path of evil. They started their criminal lives pickpocketing and continued with murders and arson. The longer they walked on this path, the higher the severity of their crimes became.


    They hadmitted many crimes, but they had yet to be caught. One day, a criminal policeman stopped their car, which was carrying a corpse at the time. As a defensive measure, the brothers decided to kill him. That officer was the real Liang Xiaoyue.


    The younger brother was smart. He peeled Liang Xiaoyues facial skin and used some special potion to fix it on his own face. Since he had learned the transfiguration skill, he was also able to properly imitate the officers behavior. Then, he fully impersonated Liang Xiaoyue and mingled with the Criminal Police force. It was like the real-life version of Infernal Affairs.


    From that day onwards, the police would always be a step behind every time the older brothermitted a crime in the area that Officer Liang was in charge of. The Cheng brothers became quite rich with their sudden change of fortune. But one day, the older brother caught his younger brother and his wife having an affair. The two had a big fight and parted ways.


    The younger brother had been in love with his sister-inw for quite a long time. He nned to use his police identity to eliminate his brother.


    He eventually plotted against his brother and even shot him several times. His brother had to jump into the sewage system to escape. Their grudge could no longer be solved.


    The older brother knew he couldnt deal with his younger brother with his current strength, so he decided to dig up the Courtier Drum from their ancestors tomb. However, the younger brother had more tricks and still managed to kill him in the end.


    After listening to Chuyi, I realized that Officer Liang had shown us a fabricated document. He had tricked us into dealing with Dalong. His bestial mind was really disgusting.


    Yin Xinyue pointed out her doubt, Still, this doesnt make sense. Brother Zhang said that Emperor Kangxi had deemed the Courtier Drum too dangerous, so he asked his men to bury the Courtier Drum in Mount Changbai. Wasnt it so?


    Chuyi exined, The ancestor of the Cheng family was an imperial bodyguard who had been appointed to deal with the Courtier Drum. However, his greed got the best of him. He killed all the other guards apanying him to im the Courtier Drum. He then made a ssh and became famous, using the power of the Courtier Drum to enjoy his short but wealthy life. However, fun feasts always end sooner. The bacsh from the Courtier Drum was really strong. He was tormented so much that he wanted to die. With one foot in the grave, he asked his son to bury him together with the Courtier Drum. The drum had to be left forever buried.


    Thats retribution for you. Still, thats a very harmful otherworldly item Li Mazi patted his thigh,menting, But how valuable could it be?


    I shot him a disdainful look.


    I can help you find the Courtier Drum, but I have one condition, said Chuyi.


    Im fine with it. All I want now is to catch the rascal that impersonated Officer Liang. I need to beat him up to vent my anger, I said.


    After everything is over, you must sell the Courtier Drum to a certain person, Chuyi said coldly.


    Your client? I asked.


    He gave me a slight nod.


    Who is your client?


    He said indifferently, He has a deep rtionship with the Courtier Drum.


    All right, we should hurry then. I guess Cheng Xiaohu hasnt gone far! I said.


    Chuyi sat still behind the wheel.


    Why arent we moving?


    I dont know how to drive.


    I almost vomited blood. How did he reach this remote ce if he couldnt drive?


    Li Mazi rubbed his hands and volunteered to try. They exchanged seats.


    After starting the engine, a vroom came from underneath. Li Mazi smacked his tongue in admiration. Thats a high-end car for you! The engine sounds so nice!


    He then took a pair of sunsses out of nowhere and wore them.


    I immediately scolded him, Stop showing off. Its nighttime, and we are in a rural area. We dont want to die in a car ident!


    Li Mazi reluctantly took his sunsses off and focused on driving.


    When we got on the highway, Li Mazi no longer knew where to go. Chuyi gave him directions; perhaps he had installed something to keep track of Cheng Xiaohu. I wasnt really surprised by his tricks anymore.


    Half an hourter, while Yin Xinyue slept on my chest, we finally caught up with Cheng Xiaohus car.


    What is he nning? Is he going to return to the police station? asked Li Mazi.


    Thats impossible. Captain Liangs body is still in that house. The police will immediately see the body when they get there. Going back to the police station is no different from getting caught. He has to make a run for it, I said.


    The two cars maintained a twenty-meter distance between them. Then, Cheng Xiaohu made a sharp turn. Perhaps he had spotted us.


    Li Mazi followed him and decided to pass him around ten minutester, but a traffic police motorbike suddenly came from behind.


    Not good, this fellow called the traffic police!


    Li Mazi asked Chuyi, Do you have any methods to force the traffic police to leave?


    Chuyi shook his head. Although Chuyi was powerful and resourceful, none of his tricks was good to deal with living people.


    It wasnt a movie, and we couldnt start a race with the traffic police on the road. We eventually had to pull over. The traffic officer checked Li Mazis driving license and ID, asking where we were going.


    Were going to attend a ssmates wedding, answered Li Mazi.


    The officer didnt believe us. He looked into the car and asked if we were in the same ss.


    Yeah, were all ssmates. But I dropped out for a few years, thats why I look older than them. You can ask them if you dont believe me. Li Mazi smiled brightly.


    The traffic police let us go after some questions, but we lost Cheng Xiaohus traces after this dy.


    Its okay. We can catch him even if he runs to the edge of the world, said Chuyi.


    I wasnt worried about going to the edge of the world. I was worried that Cheng Xiaohu would go tothatce


    The surroundings were pitch-ck and dead silent; there was only our car on the road.


    Yin Xinyue woke up. She rubbed her eyes and looked out the window. The atmospheres really strange in this forest.


    Its the suicide forest! I replied.


    What?! Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue were startled.


    Long before, I had heard about the existence of a strange forest, right at the border dividing Wuhan and Huanggang. No one knew when the trend had started, but people with a broken heart often went there to end their lives. Gradually, more and more odd stories started to spread.


    Shortly after, ChengXiaohuscar appeared ahead of us. He was going to the suicide forest.


    Li Mazi stopped the car and asked me with a shaky voice, Little Brother Zhang, do we have to go to this forest? Come to think of it, this drum would be sold for around two hundred thousand renminbi at most. I dont have the guts topete for it. I dont want that money.


    This is my first time seeing you thissensible. I smiled.


    We shouldnt waste our time on trivial matters. We should know when to give up. Right, Chuyi?


    When Li Mazi turned to look his way, Chuyi had already gotten out of the car; Yin Xinyue and I had also walked out.


    Li Mazi said that he wanted to stay to watch the car. No matter what, it was a luxurious car worth more than one million renminbi. It wasnt good to leave it unattended; for that reason, he was unwilling to leave it.


    Chuyi pinched some soil and smelled it. The Yin energy in this forest is really strong.


    The tree branches in this dead silent forest were deeply interwoven; they didnt even allow a single beam of light through. It felt as if we were standing on the edge of the abyss, looking down at the bottom. From time to time, I spotted strange movements in the forest, which scared me to death.


    To be honest, I was reluctant to enter such a ce, especially in the middle of the night. Yin Xinyue clutched my arm tight. She looked scared, but I also caught a glimpse of excitement on her face. ording to her, she would be safe as long as I was there.


    Should we go there right now? I asked Chuyi.


    Yeah, the faster the better. He still cant control the Courtier Drum as well as his brother. We wont stand a chance once he understands how to use it


    Then, Chuyi stepped on the dried leaves on the ground, heading deep into the forest.

 Chapter 351: The Transfiguration Technique

    Chapter 351: The Transfiguration Technique


    Not long after we had entered the forest, Li Mazi rushed after us.


    Didnt you just say that you didnt want toe with us? I asked.


    Li Mazi answered embarrassedly, I couldnt just leave you guys alone, right?


    I forced him to give me a truthful answer, and he finally gave in.


    Not long after you departed, a woman knocked on the car window. I looked out and saw a horrible, ghostly face smiling at me. I was so scared that I immediately rushed after you guys.


    The woods were deadly silent, to the point that we didnt even hear an owl hoot. We only heard our footsteps over the dried leaves.


    I had read some news articles about this suicide forest. Every year, dozens of people came here to end their lives, and rotten bodies were often found around the forest. Of course, there were also people that came here for the thrill.


    The forest seemed to have some strange power, and people often went missing here. For example, there was a group of young people that hade here to explore and went missing. In the end, the rescue team only found one girl. Her sanity was gone, and no one knew what had happened to the group.


    As we walked, Yin Xinyue suddenly grabbed my arm tightly and muttered, Brother Zhang, dont you feel that the temperature has dropped?


    A white mist abruptly came from every direction, and we could no longer see beyond ten meters. All of a sudden, a hand patted my right shoulder. Li Mazi''s voice came from behind, Little brother, could you let me borrow a lighter?


    Li Mazi, you quit smoking, didnt you?


    I was about to turn my head around to look at him when Chuyi shouted, Dont look back!


    When I got a hold of myself, I saw Li Mazi walking next to me. He was looking at me in puzzlement. Did I just talk to you?


    Then, that hand patted my left shoulder. This time, it was the strange voice of a woman. Please help me. I cant find my kid


    I broke out in a cold sweat and had the urge to chant the sacred text of Daoism.


    That voice kept pestering me. It begged and cried, Please, help me find my kid.


    I looked at Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue; they were pale and sweating. I guessed they had also heard strange voices. This mist was some sort of evil miasma that could disturb peoples senses.


    "Theres a corpse!


    Yin Xinyue cried and pointed at a big locust tree. A man wearing sports clothes was suspended from a big tree branch. It looked as though he had been dead for about a month. Both of his feet were as ck as ink.


    Chuyi squatted and dug up a pair of yellow sports shoes from underneath ayer of dried leaves.


    He ced the pair of shoes neatly on the ground and took out a stack of yellow talismans, which he then fanned in his hand. With a puff, a blue me danced on the yellow sheets. This scene was mesmerizing!


    The yellow talismans in Chuyis hand burned quickly. He put them into the sports shoes and mumbled something. A swirling wind rolled and sent the ashes from the shoes to the top of the tree. I lifted my head to look at the wind until it disappeared from my sight.


    Did a man just pass by this ce? asked Chuyi.


    Everything was silent for a while. Then, the seam on one of the shoes suddenly tore open. It moved several times as if it was nodding at Chuyi.


    The three of us were deeply amused by this scene.


    Did he have a thick murderous aura? Chuyi asked again.


    The shoe nodded again.


    Can you take us to him?


    This time, the shoe shook as if a person was shaking his head.


    Dont be scared. We will protect you. We will burn paper money for you, said Chuyi.


    The shoe didnt answer as it was hesitant. Then, the pair of shoes suddenly began to move, just as if an invisible person had put them on. It began to head deep into the forest.


    How did you do that? Li Mazi was surprised.


    I didnt do anything. This pair of shoes is an otherworldly item, exined Chuyi. Then, he turned around and followed the shoes.


    An otherworldly item? Modern items can be otherworldly items too? Li Mazi looked astonished.


    I understood what Chuyi meant. An otherworldly item was just the home to a departed spirit. It didnt matter if it was a thousand years old or if it had just formed, it was still an otherworldly item.


    Since the pair of shoes was a low-level item, Chuyi didnt need to work hard to stimte it to work for him.


    Follow the shoes! called Chuyi. We followed that pair of sports shoes and gradually reached an area covered by a strange mist.


    We didnt know how much time had passed before the pair of sports shoes stopped by a big tree. I heard voices that belonged to a woman and a man from the other side of the tree.


    Little Mei, forgive me for being useless. Ill definitely marry you in our next life.


    Dont say that. Little Xu, I love you.


    I love you, too.


    Then, I heard something fall.


    Damn, someonesmitting suicide!I hurried over to see.


    A young couple was hung from the tree, their bodies swinging like wind chimes. I called Li Mazi to help me get them down.


    The girl wasnt happy with our efforts. After we rescued her, she screamed and scratched us. Who asked you to put your noses in my business?! Who?! Im killing myself. Why does it matter to you?


    Haha, what an ungrateful brat. I dont understand you guys. You are still young. Why cant you just think it through? Even if the sky falls, there will be a tall building to stop it. Why do you have to kill yourself? asked Li Mazi.


    Who asked for your concern? You ugly uncle! snapped the young girl. Her attire was unconventional. Moreover, one side of her hair was pretty long while the other side was shaved. She wore a leather jacket and a pair of gloves.


    The boy lookednky and wore a pair of sses as thick as the bottom of a wine bottle. He also carried a backpack.


    Yin Xinyue asked, Little girl, are you in trouble? Could you tell me about it? Maybe I can help you.


    The girl snarled, It has nothing to do with you, auntie!


    Then, she asked Li Mazi if he had a cigarette. When she received a negative answer, she took out some chewing gum.


    I then noticed that the boy had very strong Yin energy, and although they were bothmitting suicides for their love, the girl didnt have any bit of Yin energy.


    I inadvertently nced at Chuyi and saw that he was looking at me. He shook his head as if he was warning me about something.


    Are you ssmates? Which school do you go to? asked Yin Xinyue.


    The boy answered, Auntie, we go to High School No.13 in a neighborhood nearby. We love each other, but her father doesnt allow us to be together, so we ran away. We couldnt put up with it. Thats why we decided toe here and end our lives


    Yin Xinyue asked, Do you have somewhere to go?


    No, but if we go back home now, they will beat us to death. We havent eaten anything for three days. Oh, thats right. Auntie, I want to show you something, said the boy as he searched for something in his backpack.


    I suddenly noticed that the color of his facial skin and the color of his arms and body didnt match.


    Move away from him! I screamed and strode forward. I kicked the bag away from him.


    A small rattle drum rolled out of the bag. It was made of two skulls hooked onto each other. The drum skin looked like human skin.


    The Courtier Drum! Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue screamed in unison.


    Crap! The boys face changed, his voice deeper. He took out a dagger and ced it on the girls throat. Donte closer. Im going to kill her!


    It turned out Cheng Xiaohu knew that he had no ce to go, so he had used his transfiguration skill. He took the clothes from a poor boy and disguised as a high schooler.


    He had mastered the skill of imitation, and his acting was on par with professional actors.


    The girl didnt look like she was controlled by the Courtier Drum. Perhaps Cheng Xiaohu had threatened her.


    Cheng Xiaohu, you must die for your sins. Its time for you to receive retribution! I said.


    Haha! Cheng Xiaohu faced the sky andughed. I dont believe in any retribution. Why havent those corrupted officials received retribution yet? I''ve be like this due to this society!


    Li Mazi said, Like hell! When I was small, my family was so poor that I didnt have a pair of good socks. All of them were patched up. Yet, I didnt steal or rob anybody! You were evil from the beginning, stop ming society for your bad behavior!


    Cheng Xiaohu sneered. You really like to talk, dont you? Donte closer. Otherwise, Ill cut her throat!


    He retreated continuously and unexpectedly pushed the girl toward us. He picked up the Courtier Drum, then dashed into the dark forest.


    I wanted to chase after him, but Chuyi pulled me back. He said calmly, He wont be able to run far.

 Chapter 352: Fighting Against a Horde of Decaying Walking Corpses

    Chapter 352: Fighting Against a Horde of Decaying Walking Corpses


    After Cheng Xiaohu fled, Chuyi took out a paper crane and threw it in the air.


    The paper crane pped its wings and surfed in the night wind; it quickly left. I guessed he was borrowing the power of the spirits in this ce.


    The girl was stunned. Who are you guys?


    Instead of answering her question, Yin Xinyue asked, Little girl, why are you here thiste at night? Did that man threaten you?


    The girl bit her lower lip. I dont need you to care about me.


    She prepared to escape, but Li Mazi grabbed her cor from behind.


    The girl kicked and wiggled in resistance. Li Mazi had to struggle hard tokeep her in check.


    Since he wasnt listening, I had to y hard. I went to her and made a grumpy face. Little girl, youd better tell us the truth. This is a remote forest, and no one will help you if we do something to you.


    Are you threatening me, uncle? The girl didnt look worried and said as she patted her bag, Im here to kill myself, and Ive even prepared sleeping pills. What do you think you can do to me?


    I noticed that her clothes and essories didnt match. It seemed as though she had just put on anything she could find. All of her belongings exuded heavy corpse energy.


    I guessed this little girl wasnt here tomit suicide. She roamed this ce and took the corpses items to use or sell for money. She was pretty bold.


    I pried, Are youreallyhere to kill yourself? Your clothes, gloves, and even your bags... you took them from the dead, isnt that right?


    The girl lowered her head and said nothing.


    Youre really brave. If I had to spend one night here, I would lose my mind. Do you want me to introduce you to a job at the funeral home? You can put on makeup for the deceased. Im sure youll like it.


    Uncle, you dont need to care about me! Im having a good time here!


    She kept calling me uncle, which irritated me a lot. I wasnt that old right?


    Do you know that man? I asked.


    I do. The girl pressed her lips. I met him several minutes ago. He told me that if I helped him deal with you guys, he would let me borrow his drum to kill my step-dad.


    We were surprised. We had finally obtained a clue.


    Your step-dad doesnt treat you well? I asked.


    Have you ever been abused, hit, and locked in a dark room? And the one that did those things to you acts like he is a good father in front of others? Whenever I see him, I want to vomit. But my stupid mother protects him. She mes everything on me. I wish that they would both die in a car ident. The girls eyes brimmed with tears.


    We all remained silent.


    Why dont you talk now, uncle?! said the girl.


    That man fooled you. He wont give you the Courtier Drum, said Chuyi.


    He said he would help me as long as I helped him get rid of you guys. He made an oath, said the girl.


    Chuyi shook his head. Hes a nasty criminal. Even if he had seeded, he would have killed you right after to prevent you from revealing his identity. Anyway, as for what he has promised you, we can help you with that


    Are you telling the truth? The girl was thrilled.


    Chuyi nodded. I turned to nce at him, and I wondered if he was serious or if he was just fooling this girl.


    The girl didnt behave nicely to anybody except Chuyi. I guessed it was because he was too handsome. Even Song Joong-ki with makeup was not Chuyis match.


    At this moment, a paper crane returned from the forest; Chuyi let it perch on his finger. The paper crane nodded as if it was talking to him.


    This way! Chuyi pointed his finger.


    We followed him into the forest, and the Yin energy grew stronger as we advanced.


    I was worried that something unexpected would happen, so I asked Li Mazi, Yin Xinyue, and the girl to walk in the middle. Chuyi led the way with his sword in hand while I walked at the end of the line. I held the Sirius Whip while reciting the sacred text of Daoism.


    The girl twittered and asked many questions along the way. Although she was a little annoying, the atmosphere was less heavy with her talking.


    Thump! Thump!


    The drumbeats came from the forest. I immediately tensed up.


    The dried leaves underneath our feet suddenly rattled. Then, a group of rotten corpses suddenly got up and slowly walked toward us. Most of them had decayed and some were headless.


    The corpses limped toward us while howling, their stiff bodies wiggling and twisting.


    I wielded the Sirius Whip and coiled it around the rotten corpse nearest to me. I pulled slightly, making it copse into pieces.


    Chuyi dashed right between them. The long sword was drawn out of its sheath, and blue light shed as he quickly finished off two corpses.


    So handsome! shouted the girl as she pped her hands.


    Those dposed bodies were much easier to deal with than the walking corpses Cheng Dalong had refined. However, there were a lot of them.


    Chuyi and I gradually cleared a path, urging the others to move while we stayed to back them up.


    Chuyi suddenly screamed, Dodge!


    I felt something fall above my head and instantly took a step back. A decayed corpse had tried to attack me from above but missed. Chuyi stomped on his back, and his sword pierced through the corpses throat.


    The tree canopies above rattled. I noticed that the horde of corpses had switched to a midair attack. They moved agilely between the tree branches and encircled us.


    Of course, these rotten corpses didnt have flexible bodies. When they jumped, some of them copsed. However, they still besieged us with theirrge numbers. It was a little tough this time. Chuyi, do you have any tricks?


    Use your grandfathers South Dipper Sirius Spell, said Chuyi.


    What? Not the Big Dipper Sirius Spell? I was surprised.


    The Sirius Whip Spell includes the Big Dipper and the South Dipper. The South Dipper is used to deal with zombies, while the Big Dipper deals with monsters. Read after me. Dragon storms out of the nineyered heaven, using ten thousand roars! Chuyi read fast.


    My left hand made a hand seal as I read after Chuyi to apply the South Dipper Sirius Spell to my whip. Immediately, I felt the whip vibrate; it then moved like a slithering snake.


    I followed the feeling and wielded my whip. The whip made some crackling noises as it created a swirling torrent of energy and smashed the corpses.


    Pieces of bones and dposed flesh showered down.


    I was satisfied to finish off the horde of corpses in just an instant. I retrieved the Sirius Whip.


    The girl screamed in awe again.


    Little girl, who do you think is fiercer? I asked.


    She pointed at Chuyi.


    I asked, Why is that?


    Because its always like this in manga. The stronger person doesn''t talk much! You talk too much, uncle!


    Her childish behavior amused Chuyi. However, the corners of his mouth were only slightly raised before going down again. Still, seeing him smile was very rare.


    After we adjusted our breathing, we heard the sound of the Courtier Drum again. This time, it was near.


    Lets put an end to this and finish Cheng Xiaohu! I suggested.


    Yeah! Chuyi nodded.


    Chuyi and I moved ahead to clear the path. The drumbeats sounded faster. When I parted a bush to make way, I saw Cheng Xiaohu beating the drum hard. The decayed corpses in this area had been all mobilized. He was now so restless that he was sweating nonstop.


    Stop! I screamed.


    Cheng Xiaohu gritted his teeth and entered the forest. He kept hitting the drum as he ran. The drumbeats echoed unceasingly.


    This rascal wants to run all night. Would we have to chase after him all night long?!


    While I was still thinking, the drumbeat stopped, and a scary, heart-rending screech came from the other side of the forest. Chuyi and I exchanged looks and rushed toward that area.


    When we arrived at the scene, we saw the rotten corpses congregating together. They were crazily tearing and biting Cheng Xiaohu. The pungent smell of blood permeated the air, and the mans limbs convulsed for a while before stopping.


    It seemed he couldnt control the Courtier Drum properly as Ao Bais soul was attached to it. He had overused the drums power and was punished for it.


    Chuyi read a spell then threw his sword into the air. The sword stabbed into the ground and released a cold, blue light in front of Cheng Xiaohu. The horde of rotten corpses that was nibbling and tearing his body was scared. They halted then silently crawled back into the dark forest...

 Chapter 353: Price

    Chapter 353: Price


    Chuyi picked up the Courtier Drum from the ground. He observed the item then handed it to me.


    I studied the drum carefully. It was made of two skulls hooked together and felt heavier than I had imagined. There was ayer of mercury that covered the skulls. The bottoms of the skulls were polished and covered with two pieces of human skin as thin as cicada wings.


    One side of the drum had a drawing of a wolf while the other side had a deer. Both animals belonged to the Manchurian totem.


    If we ignored its creepy vibe, this drum was a masterpiece. ording to rumors, when the Manchurian warriors engaged in battles, they also captured excellent craftsmen and kept them in the imperial pce to serve the royal family. They were called inner-court consecrators.


    This drum was definitely crafted by those guys.


    At this moment, Yin Xinyue, Li Mazi, and the girl got out of the forest and joined us. They were startled when they saw Cheng Xiaohu lying on the ground. Then, they saw the Courtier Drum in my hand and wanted to see it. I had to remind them not to beat it.


    When the girl held it, she curiously hit the drum once. I was so scared that my heart almost stopped beating.


    Do you want to die? Weve had enough trouble already. Li Mazi snatched the drum from her hand.


    Its just a drum. How dangerous could it be? The girl didnt sound worried.


    Chuyi suddenly drew his long sword and aimed at her throat. Of course, he was just bluffing. However, the girl was scared, and her face turned pale. Big brother, what are you doing?!


    If its just a sword, why is it so scary to you? Chuyi said with an indifferent face. His humor was pretty cold.


    However, I noticed that the girl addressed him as Brother while she called me Uncle.What kind of discrimination was this?!


    After toiling for the whole night, I felt my body falling apart. We should go home and rest.


    However, Chuyi asked us to bury Cheng Xiaohu first.


    Theyer of dried leaves in this suicide forest was very thick, and it was almost impossible to dig up a hole here. Moreover, we didnt have any tools.


    We could only use the leaves to cover Cheng Xiaohus body. Chuyi burned some paper money and chanted the rebirth mantra. I have to do this to prevent Cheng Xiaohu from bing an evil spirit and harming more people.


    The girl was curious. Who are you guys?


    I said mysteriously, Were Immortals.


    After we left the forest, we returned to the car.


    Chuyi, whos your client? I asked.


    Except for Kangxi and the Cheng family, who else has a rtionship with this drum? asked Chuyi.


    Ao Baister generations? A sh of wit came to my head.


    Chuyi nodded. His client was Ao Bais descendant. Although Emperor Kangxi had beheaded his entire family, some rtives managed to escape to Nanyang. They changed their names and lived there.


    Their ancestors remains had been turned into an otherworldly item, which was even crueler than killing them and putting their bodies on disy. As such, they tried everything in their power to locate the Courtier Drum and asked Chuyi to bring it back.


    When it was around dawn, we reached the city. Yin Xinyue gave the little girl all the money she had. It would be enough for the girl to survive for a while.


    The girl got out of the car but lingered and didnt want to leave. Then, she whimpered, You fooled me!


    What?


    You told me that you would help me kill my stepfather! Adults are not to be trusted! scolded the girl.


    Little girl, you know you have to go to jail if you murder someone, right? Also, you cant just kill all the people you dont like, said Li Mazi.


    You fraud! You big cheaters! The girl cried and turned away, but Chuyi suddenly stopped her.


    He took a jade doll out of his pocket. It was around the length of a finger. He gave it to the girl and said, Feed this doll blood from your fingertip for seven days. Then, ce it under your stepfathers bed. On the second day, he will bleed to death through his seven orifices.


    Chuyi rarely fooled people, so I was a little shocked at this moment. Are you going to help her murder her stepfather?


    Evil people should die. Moreover, killing people to take revenge is the main function of an otherworldly item.


    Although he was a Daoist priest, Chuyi had his own view about good and evil.


    Thank you, big brother! The girl was ted. She hugged Chuyi and nted a kiss on his cheek.


    Before she left, Chuyi called her again.


    What? asked the girl.


    Why didnt you ask me about the price of using this item? Chuyi asked mysteriously.


    I dont care about the price!


    After you kill him, you will lose twenty years of your life, said Chuyi.


    The girl gawked as if she couldnt believe it. But in the end, she nodded. I understand. Thank you!


    There was nothing in this world that you could take for free. There was always a price. The moment you obtained something, you had to give something in return.


    The Cheng brothers wanted too much, and when they exhausted their tricks, they were done for.


    I watched the girl disappear into the night. I just hoped that she could think about it more carefully.


    Once you stepped into the darkness, there was a chance that youd never be able to return!

 Chapter 354: The Ancient Bronze Sword

    Chapter 354: The Ancient Bronze Sword


    The Courtier Drum case ended here. We kept our promise and sold the Courtier Drum to Ao Bais descendants, who lived in Mysia. They couldnt thank us enough and generously gave me a cheque. Then, they buried their ancestors remains and let them rest in peace.


    I checked my new bank ount bnce, which made my eyes bulge. Three million renminbi! That Mysian businessman was really rich.


    The next period of my life was a little monotonous. Every day, I would sit in my antique shop and watch people walk past my door. I appraised antiques and beautiful calligraphy drawings from time to time, but none of them could arouse my interest.


    Although trading ordinary antiques could help me earn some dimes to make ends meet, it was nowhere as thrilling.


    Otherworldly items were like drugs. Once you tried the business, you would get addicted. There was no cure for it.


    Yin Xinyue also said that I was doing nothing besides eating and sleeping these days.


    I could only nod to confirm herment.


    Honey, I dont know if I should let you run your antique shop any longer. Yin Xinyue sighed.


    I knew she was concerned about me. If I didnt ept any deals or otherworldly item trades, I would act like a zombie. But if I epted such deals, my life would be in danger...


    Under these difficult circumstances, I had to admit that it wasnt easy for her to be together with me.


    One day, I was dozing off in my shop while watching a trashy TV series. These shows were either about people tearing monsters apart with their bare hands or snipers shooting monsters from hundreds of miles away.


    While I was drowsy and dozed off, I heard a series of footsteps.


    When people normally entered an antique shop, they wouldn''t run like that. Since my antique shop was full of ancient bottles and jars, if someone identally knocked any of them and broke them, the person would have to pay me.


    If someone was rushing to my shop, it had to be about something very urgent.


    A sh appeared in my head. I immediately opened my eyes to see what it was. A young girl with an elegant appearance stood before me.


    This girl looked around sixteen or seventeen. Puberty didnt hit her well, and she was kind of t. However, her body was still nice, with creamy skin and slender legs.


    She wore an immactely white dress, which made her look mild and gentle.


    She held a red fabric bag that contained something rectangr. Her arm shivered as she tightly held onto it. The thing inside that red bag seemed important to her.


    The girl hade out of nowhere, and the item she had brought along had to be from a big background.


    I was excited. I took a swig of tea and asked the girl, Miss, do you want to sell something?


    You should take a look at it yourself! As she finished talking, she ced the red fabric bag in front of me.


    After I had carefully unwrapped the red fabric and ayer of bubble wrap, I saw the item.


    It was a bronze sword approximately one meter in length. The bronze sword had ayer of patina, and the surface was carved with patterns. I also saw a gleam of blood.


    I instantly recognized that this wasnt just a priceless ancient sword. It could be an otherworldly item.


    Bronze swords were the preferred weapons of youngsters from rich families during the Spring and Autumn seasons and the Warring State Periods. For example, in 1965, they had unearthed the Sword of Goujian, which was an outstanding item and represented very well the items from that period.


    The Sword of Goujian was made of various kinds of alloys like bronze, tin, lead, and iron. It was forged in a way that it would not rust after thousands of years.


    However, antique merchants like us didnt dare to buy three-thousand-year bronze weapons like this.


    Generally speaking, these items were national treasures. In our business, we used the term, U-turn price.


    It meant that even if someone could sell the item at a high price, they wouldnt be able to enjoy a good life.


    The crime of trading a national treasure wasnt different from treason. It was somewhat okay to sell it to some people around, but if it was sold to a foreigner, that merchant would be exposed asmitting treason. He would never be able to mingle in this business again.


    As soon as I saw this sword, I knew that it was unearthed by some tomb robber.


    When my grandfather was still alive, he had a good friendship with a tomb robber whose family name was Hu. He had earned quite a bit of money thanks to that person.


    Afterward, that person changed his job and started to write memoirs. They never contacted each other after that.


    Most of the time, I didnt buy items unearthed by tomb robbers.


    There was a big risk that the government could track them. Moreover, they brought along great danger. Many of them had been buried for more than one thousand years, umting a lot of resentful energy. And now, they were suddenly disturbed. It would be surprising if they did not cause trouble.


    I took a look at the sword then carefully wrapped it with the red fabric. I turned and said to the girl in a serious tone, Im sorry, but I cant buy this item. You should ask the other shops on this street.


    The white-dressed girl bit her lip. She didnt talk and picked up the red fabric bag, leaving.


    I watched her beautiful figure disappear from my shop and exhaled in relief.


    I had thought about buying the item, but I remembered that I had promised Yin Xinyue that I wouldnt do any deals that could threaten my life.


    I was a man who kept his word.


    After the girl left, I suddenly felt anxious. I had a premonition that this wasnt the end of it


    Since I had nothing to do, I continued to watch a drama on myputer. It was a boring soap drama, so I dozed off after a few minutes.


    Usually, I would only wake up after Yin Xinyue clocked off and went home.


    However, ten minutester, I was surprised to hear someone knock on the door of my antique shop.


    This time, it wasnt one person, but two people.


    I opened the door to check. It was the girl in white again. With him was no one other than Li Mazi. He had brought her back to my door.


    As soon as they came into the shop, Li Mazi started to say ttering words. Haha, little miss, allow me to introduce you to this person. This is a renowned otherworldly merchant in our circle. Hes an antique expert and a history professor at Tsinghua University. When the new semester begins, he will teach at various schools and universities. He is Zhang Jiulin!


    I didnt know which nerve in Li Mazis head had just broken. Why was he trying to tter me like that?


    Since there was another person, I couldnt curse at him and pretended to be a real expert. If you have anything you want to say, just tell me. Dont talk nonsense.


    Mr. Zhang, if Im not wrong, this little miss hase across a very rare otherworldly item


    Li Mazi looked at the girl in white and continued, This otherworldly item is very dangerous. If Mr. Zhang doesn''t help us, Im afraid no one can subdue it! Speaking of which, she went to a shop earlier. That shopkeeper was rather ipetent and pussied out as soon as he saw this sword. He told her that he couldnt buy the item no matter what.


    The girl in white shot me a glum look and pulled Li Mazis arm. Mr. Li, hes the one I just met.


    My face was rather unsightly at the moment. I faked a cough and said to Li Mazi, Li Mazi, stop causing trouble. You really like to gossip, dont you?


    When Li Mazi discovered that I didnt dare to receive this item, he knew that he had messed up. His face changed. Little miss, why didn''t you tell me that you had already met Mr. Zhang? Things suddenly became veryplicated...


    He pretended to be troubled and said, This sword must be hiding a thousand-year old evil spirit. If Mr. Zhang doesnt dare to ept this task, Im afraid no one will.


    I knew Li Mazi was exaggerating to increase the price, but I had made up my mind that I wouldnt ept this case. I wasnt going to ept, not even if Li Mazi could overthrow the sky with his words.


    I stood up and said to the two of them, Can you please leave? I want to close my shop.


    Li Mazi was bewildered. Little Brother Zhang, whats going on?


    I said, Li Mazi, I dont dare to ept this deal. My advice to you is that you shouldnt, either. This sword has umted a huge amount of resentful energy. If we enter this mess, even my grandpa wont be able to save us.


    Li Mazi was scared and hurried to shove the red fabric bag into the girls hands.


    I locked the door in front of them and turned around, leaving as fast as I could.

 Chapter 355: Visiting Changping Village

    Chapter 355: Visiting Changping Vige


    I thought that it was over, but a few dayster, the girl wearing the white dress came again. This time, she brought a better backup, Chuyi.


    Chuyi and I had been through a lot, so I couldnt just reject him if he needed help.


    Still, when I saw the two of them together, I felt my scalp tingle


    Did you read the news? asked Chuyi.


    What news? I was bewildered.


    Chuyi showed me the iPhone Li Mazi had gifted him, then yed a video clip.


    A picture appeared in the video. Three years ago, an archeological team unearthed an ancient bronze sword in Chengping Vige in Shanxi Province. The ancient bronze sword was perfectly preserved and dated back to the Warring States Period. It was then ced in a museum. One week ago, the sword disappeared into thin air. There was no sign of intrusion, which has caused great spection amongizens.


    After watching the clip, I mumbled something in my head.This girl didnt seem like a tomb robber, yet she stole this national treasure


    The girl saw my strange expression and hid behind Chuyi, somewhat scared.


    Chuyi seemed to know what I had on my mind. He exined, The sword is following her. She didnt steal it.


    What? I couldnt believe my ears. However, Chuyi had no reason to lie. Even if he said that this sword was the sword of the Jade Emperor, I would still believe him.


    Chuyi didnt exin much. He pointed at the girl and introduced her. Her family name is Zhao.


    Oh. I didnt know what he meant by it.


    Chuyi said, Pack up your belongings. Youreing with me to Shanxi. This time, we wont bring Li Mazi with us.


    In the meantime, Yin Xinyue also returned. When she saw Chuyi, she was excited. Are we going on an adventure?


    Chuyi nced at her, then said coldly, Youre noting, either.


    No! Yin Xinyue came forward and grabbed Chuyis arm, acting like a kid. I want to go with Brother Zhang! You cant just steal my husband.


    Out of reluctance, Chuyi sighed. I dont know how dangerous it will be this time


    Dangerous? Thats awesome! Yin Xinyue pretended to be bold and acted like she was not scared of anything.


    I knew she wanted to apany and help me. I was touched, so I turned to talk to Chuyi. Let here with us. She hasnt bothered us on our previous missions.


    Chuyi hesitated but nodded in the end. At night, we drove to Shanxi Province.


    We arrived at Changping Vigeter that night. We were exhausted, so we paid one hundred renminbi to stay in a ruralpound.


    As soon as weid down, Chuyi told me that this vige was haunted.


    Whats going on? I asked.


    Chuyi exined, The folks in Changping Vige dont dare to climb the mountain at night time. Anyone who gets close to the mountain peak dies. Most of the time, their bodies will be dismembered.


    That exaggerated? I was surprised.


    Its not only that. Chuyi said, The paranormal activities on the mountain started after the sword was unearthed three years ago. During the past three years, the government has sent many people to the mountain to deal with this problem; they even mobilized the army. Whenever it was daylight, theyd have to retreat as nothing would happen. When it was nighttime, they would get destroyed. Only one person survived, but hepletely lost his mind. Theyre now keeping him in an asylum


    Howe I never knew about this bigmotion? I was somewhat frightened.


    The government has suppressed the news, and no one was allowed to take photos. They have even sent some troops to watch the mountain. Moreover, they surrounded the mountain with a high-voltage electric fence, iming that it was now a military practice area. Unauthorized people cant enter that ce.


    If the military is involved, we shouldnt take part in it. I felt somewhat lucky.


    Chuyi shook his head. Those useless troopers cant solve the problem, and that''s why Im afraid itll be the end of the world.


    What do you mean? I had never heard Chuyi use such words.


    Chuyi sat up from the bed and gave me a cold nce. Do you know the origin of that sword?


    I knew he was asking about the sword that followed the girl in white everywhere.


    I said, During the Warring States Period, an average sword was around fifty centimeters. The bronze sword the girl carries around with her is around one meter. Such a long sword would be broken easily, and it wasntfortable to hold during closebat. Thats why I believe this bronze sword was used as a generals horse sword.


    Correct, said Chuyi. What else?


    I thought about it then said, This bronze sword must have been forged by a renowned cksmith at that time. From its size and shape, it could be the sword of an emperor.


    Correct. Chuyi nodded.


    I felt my heart shiver. Why is the sword following the little girl?


    Thats what I would also like to know. Chuyis face was tense. I suspect that the girls ancestor was the owner of this sword. Since the sword has a spirit, it recognizes the masters bloodline. Thats why it followed the girl home.


    After he said that, we heard a shriek from the next room. Ah! No! Dont...


    It was Yin Xinyue!


    When we chose to rest here, Yin Xinyue and the girl in the white dress decided to share a room. Chuyi and I decided to stay in the room next door.


    Firstly, it was convenient for us. Secondly, I wanted Yin Xinyue to talk to the girl because she was reserved. Thirdly, since the two rooms shared a wall, if something unexpected happened, we could easily take action.


    We assumed that we would have a quiet night and start the work tomorrow. However, something unexpected happened; we couldnt even rest now.


    Yin Xinyue was still screaming. Chuyi and I felt the ground shake, and then a loud bang.


    We didnt have time to change our clothes and ran out of the room in our pajamas.


    When we opened the door to the other room, we only saw Yin Xinyue. She was staring at the wall in a daze.


    We followed her line of sight and were astonished to see a human-shaped hole in the wall. As for the girl wearing the white dress, she had disappeared.


    What happened?


    I checked Yin Xinyue, who hadnt had a hold of herself yet. She gaped and pointed at the hole in the wall. I dont know. She She suddenly drew the sword and broke the wall. Then, she left.


    How is that possible? Shes just a fragile little girl. How could she have the power to break the wall like this?


    I went to check the hole in the wall.


    In the northern areas, people had to build their houses with really thick walls to get through the winter. A doubleyered wall of bricks was the standard. In theory, it should be really hard to break such a thick wall with human strength.


    What took ce in the room went beyond myprehension.


    While I was stunned, all the lights in thepound turned on. The house owner came in. He was also in his pajamas.


    What happened? Was it an earthquake?


    No, but it was something simr. I stepped aside to let the house owner see the room.


    The house owner checked the hole in the wall. He was puzzled. This What happened here?


    I walked up to him and pulled him back. The girl that came here with us was captured by some supernatural entity.


    Impossible! The house owner said, Weve never had such a thing happen in our vige!


    Yin Xinyue pulled herself together. She grabbed her bag and took out two thousand renminbi from her purse. She handed the stack of money to the house owner and said, We dont know how or why it happened, but the girl was taken. If something happens to her, youll also get involved in this matter.


    The house owner still knew how to treat people properly. Two thousand renminbi was more than enough to build a new wall and make some profit. He smiled and said, Okay, okay. I wont tell anybody.


    After dealing with the house owner, Chuyi and I returned to our room to put on decent clothes. We had to check our tools before leaving.


    As soon as we walked out of the room, we saw Yin Xinyue waiting for us outside. Guys, where are you two going in such a hurry?


    I knew we couldnt ditch her here. Xinyue, you cane, but you have to stay behind us. Dont wander off on your own, okay?


    All right. Right after, Yin Xinyue returned to her room and went out of the house through the dark hole in the wall.

 Chapter 356: Illusory Insect Spell

    Chapter 356: Illusory Insect Spell


    After Yin Xinyue recklessly went out, Chuyi and I followed after her.


    During this season, the countryside had a lot of mosquitoes, and I wondered if there was a problem with my blood type as they all gathered around me.


    We slowly approached a lush paddy field.


    It seemed the farmers had just irrigated the field. After I took the first step, my leg sank into the field until my knee.


    I gasped and moved back. I looked at Chuyi and saw that he was walking on the muddy field very easily, just as if he was walking on t ground. The fact that he had a heavy sword on his back didnt seem to bother him.


    Deep inside the field, we saw an abandoned well. The dried grass by the well looked ruffled; someone had just passed by this ce.


    Yin Xinyue stood by the well and looked down.


    Xinyue, did you see anything? I asked.


    Yin Xinyue didnt move and stood still like a statue A chill ran down my spine.


    Xinyue! I called her one more time. However, she still didnt react.


    I was now sure that she had been possessed.


    Right when I was about to approach her, Chuyi pulled me back. He lowered his voice and said, Dont move. Just check the situation first.


    I tried to resist the urge to go to her, but I couldnt suppress the worry in my heart.


    Yin Xinyue stood still and kept looking at the well. One minute , two minutes, three minutes Time slowly passed by.


    What the heck is going on there? How could a lively girl like her suddenly turn into a statue?


    I didnt know what had happened, but I also didnt want to leave her like that. I ignored Chuyi and walked forward to pull Yin Xinyue back.


    However, as soon as my hands touched her shoulder, I saw a beam of green light shoot up from the well. I curiously lowered my head to take a good nce at it.


    I was deeply attracted by this green light. I stood in a daze like Yin Xinyue and watched the well. I couldnt pull my eyes off it.


    It was so sudden that I had no time to react. I didnt know what had happened, either.


    Yin Xinyue and I stood there and watched the well. However, this dry well was just a mass of darkness. I couldnt see anything.


    What are we even looking at? This is too strange!


    While I was worried, I heard a strange voice. I calmed my mind and tried to listen to it. It was the voice of a woman and was extremely seductive.


    Darling, do you want me?


    My body shook, and the well in front of us disappeared, reced by a half-naked beautiful woman.


    The woman had a very flimsy piece of white silk that covered her body. It showed off her alluring figure.


    Since I was a normal, adult male, my body unconsciously reacted


    I cursed myself for not being able to control myself. I had betrayed Yin Xinyue so easily! My self-control had been overwhelmed by my desire.


    Then, the half-naked woman in front of me turned into Yin Xinyue.


    What the heck is going on?


    Yin Xinyue was a conservative woman. Although we had done it, she was always shy whenever she was with me. She was never so active.


    As soon as this thought popped up in my head, Yin Xinyue transformed. She now wore a nightgown that covered her body. She had a shy expression and looked at me with a flirtatious gaze.


    Why is the sight before me so exaggerated?I tried to think of something else.


    I rubbed my eyes and checked again. Now, I was in my bedroom.


    As my desire surged, my primal instinct got the best of me. I couldnt control myself and slowly walked toward Yin Xinyue, who was lying on the bed.


    At this critical moment, I felt a cold touch right at my nape.


    I reached my hand and found a small cut at the nape of my neck. Chuyi withdrew his sword and said. You two, close your eyes! Slowly retreat towards me. Do not look at the well!


    I was startled. The illusory scene in front of me had disappeared, and the abandoned well was back.


    As expected, there was no bed, and I was trying to climb the mouth of the well!


    If it wasnt for Chuyi, I would have killed myself by jumping into the well.


    Yin Xinyue was standing next to me, also on the wall of the well. At this moment, she turned to me, her face frightened.


    What are you looking at? Hurry,e back here! Chuyis voice grew frantic.


    Yin Xinyue and I followed his advice. We closed our eyes, held hands, and slowly backed away from the well.


    After retreating around ten meters, I heard Chuyis voice. Good. Now, open your eyes.


    What happened? I was puzzled.


    Chuyi snorted, Someone set up a trap near the abandoned well. Anybody who goes close to the well will start hallucinating and die.


    So it was a hallucination! Yin Xinyue clutched her chest. She was still frightened. I wanted to find the girl. While looking for her, I saw the well and went over there to check.


    What did you see? I asked carefully.


    I saw that you were being chased on a rooftop. I was worried about you, so I went there to save you. When I walked on the stairs, I woke up. What did you see?


    Just like you. I saw you in danger I blushed.


    Yin Xinyue red at me. How could it be? You saw me in danger and you still had the time to undress? You unzipped your pants!


    Feeling embarrassed, I zipped up my pants then ruffled my hair. Its a long story.


    Chuyi looked indifferent as he listened to us. That well is cursed. Theres a strong spell on it, and anybody that gets within ten meters of it will die.


    Is that so? I felt that things were veryplicated.


    Yin Xinyue intervened, I asked the vigers if anything strange had happened recently, and they didnt mention this well. After the military sealed the mountain, nothing strange has happened in the vige.


    Correct, said Chuyi. Im afraid the spell was added just recently. The purpose was to lure us to our deaths.


    What?! I was scared. Chills ran down my spine.


    Chuyi continued, Im afraid the Longquan Vi has been keeping an eye on us. For the rest of this mission, if you ever encounter anything strange, you must listen to me. We dont want to fall into a trap.


    Then, Chuyi avoided the cursed well, turned on his shlight, and started to look around. Shortly after, he found a series of footprints along a small path.


    She went this way, he said.


    As he was about to leave, Yin Xinyue asked, What about this well?


    For the time being, we shouldnt take any risks, he said. I suspect a Yunnan Insect Master used poppy flowers to set up an Illusory Insect Spell. Anybody who goes near it will have to pay a big price, including me


    So, are we just going to ignore it? What if it kills other people? Yin Xinyue couldnt ease her mind.


    Dont worry. Chuyi shook his head and said, The spell can onlyst for one night. The sunlight will erase it. Right now, the vigers are all sleeping, so no one wille here.


    After we heard his words, Yin Xinyue and I put our worries to rest. We checked our tools then continued to chase after the girl in white.

 Chapter 357: Ghostly Moon in the Sky

    Chapter 357: Ghostly Moon in the Sky


    My jacket was on the ground by the well, but I didnt dare to go there to pick it up.


    The rest of my equipment was still with me, so it was fine to leave the jacket behind. We followed the traces all the way up to the mountain.


    The mountain was fenced with a heavy barbed wire. There were several watchtowers, including soldiers patrolling with their guns.


    We thought about sneaking in from the back, but the searchlight from the watchtower spotted us. I heard a soldier yell, Whos there?! This is a military area. No unauthorized entry!


    Before he could finish, three patrolling soldiers arrived with submachine guns in their hands.


    We reluctantly raised our hands above our heads.


    I didnt know what to do, but I saw Chuyi mouth something to me. At first, I thought he wanted to break through the encirclement, which scared me to death.


    But when I turned around, I realized that I had misunderstood his intentions. He was talking about that big hole in the barbed wire. A man that looked like an officer was carefully checking the hole with several other soldiers.


    After hearing themotion over here, he said something to his soldiers, adjusted his cap, and walked toward us.


    Thanks to the searchlight, I saw that the officer had a stripe and three gold stars on his badge. He was a Captain.


    ording to the rumors, there was apany stationed here. I guessed he was the leader here, thepanymander.


    Thepanymander strolled toward us and observed us carefully. When he opened his mouth, he spoke with a thick Northeast ent. Its sote. Why are you guys here?


    We were just strolling around. Id learned this technique from Li Mazi. We drank a little bit and decided to y a game of dare. We heard that this mountain was really scary, so we came to see for ourselves.


    You guys have a lot of time to kill, dont you? Thepanymanderughed. If you have nothing to do here, go home and sleep. Do not stay here, or else you will end up in trouble.


    Chuyi suddenly asked, How did the barbed wire get torn? Who did that?


    Thepanymanders eyes twinkled. Something unexpected happened, but its not a big deal. I will get some guys to fix it tomorrow.


    Was itreallyan unexpected event? Chuyi said, If you dont take it seriously, it might be a big deal.


    Thepanymander understood what Chuyi meant. It could be a big or small matter, but if someone died, his career as an officer could end here. He could even be discharged.


    Thepanymander was concerned about this matter. He then observed the three of us again.


    Chuyi was especially eye-catching since he was carrying an eight-faced Han sword on his back. Then, thepanymander also saw my Sirius Whip. He gave a slight frown then asked, Are you from the Longquan Vi?


    Thismander knows about the Longquan Vi?!


    Right when I was about to deny it, Chuyi nodded. Yes, the Longquan Vi sent us here. Wevee to solve the problem.


    Thepanymander waved his hand. Good. Follow me.


    He asked the soldiers on duty to put down their weapons. Then, he brought the three of us to the watchtower. He closed the door and said,  I wasnt here when it happened, but the guards reported that a female ghost wearing white clothes came here with a sword. She cut the in one try then disappeared through the hole, heading towards the mountain.


    That sounds hard to believe, I said.


    Thepanymander forced a smile. Youll get used to it. Anyway, I dont dare to report this to my superiors. I still want to be thepanymander for a few more years.


    I gave him a slight nod. Is that why you want to fix the and cover things up? Still, arent you afraid that someone might end up dead?


    I dont think that will happen. Were here guarding the ce, and no one can get to the mountain. Thepanymander sounded cautious. He knew he didnt have the power to solve this matter.


    I shook my head then asked, If something can go up there, it can alsoe down here. What if it kills all the vigers?


    Thepanymander was scared. In a trembling voice, he said, So What should I do?


    Its easy. Just let us go to the mountain to see how things are going. Then, well be able to tell you if its a human or a ghost.


    All right, when will you go?


    We cant dy this. Well go now, I said.


    Arent you afraid? Thepanymander seemed very anxious, which stunned me a little. The atmosphere turned strange.


    Iughed. Of course not. Are you worried that we will not return from the mountain? Dont worry. We make a living out of this business. We have our ways.


    Thepanymander half-believed us and muttered, The people from the Longquan Vi didnt dare to climb the mountain before


    I knew that he had be suspicious, so I had to exin. They werent powerful enough. Thats why they didnt dare to take risks. Were the top-tier experts from Longquan Vi, so we can go and down the mountain as we please.


    Thepanymander nodded. All right, I will let you in. However, we have to make it clear that we wont be responsible for anything that happens to you on the mountain. And, as a rule, when the problem is solved, the merit will belong to the military. You guys will only be helpful citizens at most.


    We understand, I replied.


    Thepanymander was convinced. He extended his hand to me and introduced himself. Im Chen Zhihui.


    Captain Chen. I fabricated a name for myself. Im Zhang Xiaojiu. Nice to meet you.


    Captain Chen brought us back to the hole and reminded us one more time, Just to make things clear, this is your operation. Even if you die on the mountain, we wont send any troopers to search for your dead bodies.


    I nodded. I understand.


    After we made our preparations, we departed.


    I had asked Captain Chen for camouge jackets to save us from the thorny bushes on the way to the mountain.


    This mountain path was bumpy. It seemed that the girl in white had chosen the steepest path to get to the mountain.


    Fortunately, we had equipped ourselves well. We used the climbing rope and axes to climb to the top.


    Along the way there, we had to get through a lush forest of pine trees. It wasnt a long time until we reached the top.


    The top of the mountain was weathered, with the smooth rocks surrounded by tall ancient trees.


    When we got out of the woods, we saw the moonlight shining over the rocks. A white figure was standing opposite of us; her long hair flew in the howling wind.


    She slowly drew the ancient bronze sword and pointed at the full moon in the sky.


    I was startled and asked, Xinyue What day is today?


    Its August 17th. What about it? Yin Xinyue was puzzled.


    No, I meant ording to the lunar calendar, I asked anxiously.


    What a big full moon! Yin Xinyue now noticed the bright moon in the sky. She covered her mouth. Oh right, its July 15thtoday!


    Yeah, July 15th, the day of the Chinese Ghost Festival, said Chuyi. His tone didnt have any shade of emotion. It sounded almost mechanical. Yin Xinyue and I shuddered.


    The girl in white stood in front of us, pointing her sword to the sky. She stood like that for a while.


    Yin Xinyue talked first. Little Miss, are you okay? If you have any difficulties, you can tell us. We may be able to help you.


    Little Miss? Hahaha! Did you really think that I was a little girl? The girls voice sounded neither feminine nor masculine. It was ambiguous and somewhat eerie.


    Yin Xinyue wanted to say something, but Chuyi stopped her.


    Who are you? he asked.


    My family names Zhao. You can call me General Zhao. The girl in white spoke strangely.


    I know that your surname is Zhao, said Chuyi coldly.Howe your departed soul hasnt scattered? Why did you get out of the bronze sword?


    To take revenge! Tell me, wheres the State of Qin?


    The State of Qin? It perished two thousand years ago. You have to go underground to find it. I burst outughing.


    What? Thats impossible!


    The girl in white looked lost. At the same time, her eyes shed with cold light. She faced the sky and screamed, I just had a nap. How could it be two thousand years already? Youre lying to me, arent you?!


    Why would I lie to you? said Chuyi


    He seemed to have caught onto the girls weakness. In a confident voice, he continued, The State of Qin destroyed the other six states and unified the country, giving birth to the Qin dynasty. Fourteen yearster, the Qin dynasty was overthrown. After that, Liu Bang became the Emperor, and the Han dynasty started.


    What is the current dynasty?


    I chimed in while Chuyi was pondering, Theres no dynasty. However, the entire country is united.


    The girl in white kept quiet for a long time. Then, in a heavy voice, she asked Chuyi, You said that the State of Qin destroyed the other six states, right?


    Yes, I answered without hesitation.


    So afterward, all thends belonged to the Qins?


    Yeah, thats right. What about it? I didnt see anything wrong with this answer.


    So, you guys are all descendants of the Qins! The girl in white opened her eyes wide in anger. She was so angry that I feared mes would burst out of her eye sockets!

 Chapter 358: The Strange Battle of Changping

    Chapter 358: The Strange Battle of Changping


    From the girls reaction, I knew I had given the wrong answer. I wanted to say something to make up for it, but she didnt give me a chance.


    While I was working on what to say in my head, she raised her bronze sword and aimed it at the three of us.


    Chuyi wasnt intimidated. He held his eight-faced Han sword and coldly said to the girl in white, General Zhao, its been more than two thousand years. Why do you still bother with this?


    The people from the Qin state were all traitors. Do you think you can stop people from spreading the truth? The girl in white sneered.


    As the girl talked, Chuyi quietly said to me, What time is it?


    I checked my phone. Its ten.


    Could you be more specific, please?


    10:40 PM.


    There are eighty minutes left, said Chuyi.


    What do you mean? I was a little puzzled.


    Hold him back. Dont let him leave this mountain! After Chuyi said that, the girl in white growled angrily. Both of her hands held the sword as she shed down.


    Chuyi wielded his eight-faced Han sword and fought against the girl. We heard a loud bang, then both Chuyi and the girl backed off.


    In an androgynous voice, the girl in white said, Who are you? Why are you so strong? Say your name! Zhao Kuos sword doesnt sh nobodies!


    When I heard the name, I understood who he was. The ghost that had possessed the girl was the famous general Zhao Kuo of the Zhao state from the Warring States Period. No wonder his resentful energy was so high and he had be an evil spirit.


    Zhao Kuo was involved in the Battle of Changping.


    The Battle of Changping was the fiercest battle in Chinese history. It was even more horrible than the Battle of Verdun in Europe.


    The Battle of Verdun took ce during the First World War. Itsted for almost one year and resulted in more than 250,000 casualties.


    Meanwhile, the Battle of Changping took ce during the Warring States Period. General Zhao Kuo was inmand of the Zhao states army. In less than three months, 450,000 of his soldiers had died.


    This number could make anybody stutter. However, not all four hundred and fifty thousand people were killed by swords. The cold weapons from that era werent enough to cause such arge number of casualties.


    ording to history records, around fifty thousand people from the Zhao state died in battle. The other four hundred thousand lives were killed by Bai Qi after they surrendered.


    This event was so cruel that people inter generations started calling Bai Qi the God of ughter! On the other hand, Zhao Kuo was med for the losses of the Zhao State and was ridiculed for thousands of years. They even came up with a proverb that referred to him as an armchair strategist.


    Yesterday, I didnt dare to take the bronze sword because I knew it was extraordinary. It was the sword of a feudal vassal from ancient times.


    Judging from the swords appearance, it was more than two thousand years old. Yet, it wasnt rusted and was full of resentful energy. This resentful energy helped to create a rare sword spirit!


    However, I never expected that this sword belonged to Zhao Kuo!


    This sword had umted the resentful energy of four hundred and fifty thousand people! This must be the reason Chuyi had epted this mission even with no payment.


    If the sword went out of control, it wouldnt stop after killing a couple of people.


    After thinking it through, I intervened and said to the girl in white, General Zhao, what happened to you was wrong, but your real enemy was Bai Qi, not the innocent people here.


    Haha! No matter what, youre still people of the Qin state! The girl in white sneered and said, No way Id have surrendered if Bai Qi hadnt promised to let my four hundred thousand troops return to their homes. If we fought it to the bitter end, I dont think hed have won!


    Wait Werent you shot to death by arrows? I was surprised to hear him say that. ording to the history lessons we had in school, Zhao Kuo was shot dead by arrows during the battle


    Thats right..." The girl in white grunted. But that was after I surrendered! The Qin people were cunning and deceived us. They killed us after we surrendered! You are the despicable Qin states descendants. I have tried hard to get out of this sword. I must kill you all. Haha, you must all die!


    I knew it was no use persuading him. Since Zhao Kuo had lived in the bronze sword for several thousand years, the only thing left in him was his hatred.


    Zhao Kuo quickly charged forward. I hurried to draw the Sirius Whip and tightly grabbed it with my right hand. I wanted to use the Big Dipper Sirius Spell to deal with him.


    However, Zhao Kuo was too fast. Before I couldsh my whip, his sword had already shed down.


    I wasnt quick enough to dodge his attack. When I saw the sword in front of me, I closed my eyes, waiting for death.


    Ding!


    The moment I closed my eyes, Chuyi came to me and wielded his eight-faced sword to stop Zhao Kuos fatal strike.


    Zhao Kuo understood that if he wanted to kill us, he had to first defeat Chuyi. He spoke no more and wielded his sword to battle against Chuyi.


    At first, Chuyi was able to fight Zhao Kuo head-on. However, after several strikes, he started to feel tired. He panted while Zhao Kuo didnt look tired at all. His sword moved faster and faster, and his face twisted in anger.


    Zhao Kuo was possessing a skinny little girls body, but he was still able to overpower Chuyi. He definitely wasnt an ordinary human being!


    I grabbed the Sirius Whip tighter and tried to find a chance to help Chuyi. However, their battle had reached a critical moment. I couldnt find the right chance to intervene.


    After several minutes, Chuyi couldnt resist any longer and changed his style.


    Zhao Kuo still depended on his raw strength, while Chuyi started using his excellent reflexes to deal with Zhao Kuos heavy attacks.


    After a few more strikes, Chuyi understood Zhao Kuos movements and fighting patterns. As such, Zhao Kuo lost his advantage and almost hurt himself in his confusion.


    Zhao Kuo frowned. He asked Chuyi, What kind of swordsmanship is this?

 Chapter 359: One Hour Before Death

    Chapter 359: One Hour Before Death


    Sweat rolled down Chuyis forehead. Although he was panting heavily, he still answered, Its the Tai Chi Sword Technique.


    Tai Chi? Ive never heard of it before. Zhao Kuo shook his head.


    Its normal that you havent heard about it before. This sword technique was invented one thousand years after you died. I smiled.


    I see. Zhao Kuo nodded. You should leave. I cant break through this sword technique, so youre free to go.


    He spared us because he couldnt break through the sword technique? Shouldnt Zhao Kuo be more skilled than that?


    Right when I was about to ask him, Zhao Kuo exined, I dont want to damage the body of my descendant. Thats why Im sparing you.


    When I heard that, I realized that Chuyi had reminded me that the girls family name was Zhao.


    He had told me that because she was Zhao Kuos descendant.


    Zhao Kuo, the Battle of Changping, Zhao family... It was easy to link them together, but I made the connection only now.


    Since Zhao Kuo was this little girls ancestor, I thought of something. General Zhao, since you dont want to damage your descendants body, it means you still have goodness in your heart. If we use hate to deal with hate, there will be no end to it. Moreover, everything is over now. Bai Qi has died, and the Qin state was destroyed. Why do you want to keep killing?


    Hmph! Zhao Kua sneered. You werent buried with my people. Of course, you can stand here and say righteous words. If Bai Qi hadnt agreed to release my four hundred thousand men, I would have never surrendered... However, Bai Qi didnt keep his promise. Not only did he shoot me, but he also massacred my men. If I dont take revenge for this insult, I wont be worthy of the surname Zhao!


    Zhao Kuos firm voice resonated in the area as he told me a detail that wasnt recorded in history.


    ording to the official records, Zhao Kuo was shot dead by an arrow while he was breaking the siege. It didnt say that Zhao Kuo was shot dead after he had surrendered.


    Actually, history didnt even record that Zhao Kuo had surrendered. The man was way more pitiful than how history books depicted him.


    King Zhao ordained me with the title of General and bestowed me this long sword. He then sent me and my army to fight against the Qin state. Since Id received an imperial order, I had no choice but to fight. In the end, all my men were killed.


    I wanted to say something, but Zhao Kuo continued telling his story. That Bai Qi was so malicious that my men and I couldnt rest even in death! I was a general, yet I was buried deep in the ground, unable to see the sunlight. Today, I have to take revenge for my soldiers!


    But then, Zhao Kuos tone changed. Still, you have a point. Things will never end if we use hate to deal with hate. I dont need to kill all the people of the Qin state. I just need to kill four hundred and fifty thousand. Thats how I will retaliate.


    Iughed when he said that. General Zhao, are you kidding me? Even if you can make four hundred and fifty thousand people line up for you, it would take you several months to kill them!


    After I said that, Zhao Kuo guffawed arrogantly. Youre forgetting that I have four hundred and fifty thousand resentful souls of the Zhao army here. Tonight is the Chinese Ghost Festival. Its the right time for the Zhao states heroes to rise and see the sun again!


    I felt a chill run down my spine, and sweat damped my clothes.


    No wonder Chuyi had to ept this dangerous case despite the risks. It turned out the sword was carrying four hundred and fifty thousand lives!


    Yet, we only had three people on our side.


    Is this the real-life version of the Lord of the Rings?


    Yin Xinyue and I turned pale. We tacitly turned to Chuyi in hopes that he had a solution for this.


    What time is it? he asked me.


    I checked the phone. 11 oclock.


    We still have one hour left. He shook his head. We should go.


    Go where? I was dumbstruck. This fellow wants to summon four hundred and fifty thousand souls from his dead army. If he seeds, wouldnt the world end?


    Thats why we have to stay away from Shanxi as far as possible.


    I wanted to say something, but Chuyi gave me a look; I knew he had a n. I immediately took Yin Xinyue and left with him.


    Zhao Kuo kept his word. He let us leave the mountain and didnt do anything to stop us.


    It didnt take long to reach the foothill. However, we didnt realize that the entire mountain was under military surveince. As soon as we reached the foothill, we heard the crackling noises of guns being loaded.


    Four searchlights shone on us, and a group of soldiers aimed their ck muzzles at the three of us.


    Feeling helpless, we had to raise our hands.


    Who are you? Why did you descend the mountain? asked a fierce-looking soldier.


    We were sent to the mountain by Company Commander Chen to investigate, I exined.


    Impossible! No one has ever descended this mountain.


    Were not ordinary people.


    Oh? Are you not human beings?


    I didnt know if I should cry orugh. Chuyi muttered to my ear, We have to hurry We need to do something importantter!


    Still, these soldiers seemed to have mistaken us for monsters. Some of them were even ready to open fire.


    While I was thinking of an exnation, I heard a car engine from a distance. An off-road military car approached the barbed wire fence.


    The guards recognized the cars te number, so they went to the car and saluted. Company Commander Chen got out of the drivers seat. When he saw his soldiers with loaded guns, he fumed, What the heck are you doing? Put your guns down!


    Since his soldiers were well-trained, they immediately followed hismand.


    Company Commander Chen asked them to open the wired fence. At the same time, an old monk cheerfully got out of the car. It was Zen Master Baimei!


    I hurried to greet him. Zen Master Baimei, why are you here?


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head. Merciful Buddha, Im here because this is an important matter. I had toe and check. Anyway, this is not a good ce to talk. Get in the car. We will discuss it on the way.


    We immediately got in the car. The off-road car was wide enough, so we didnt need to squeeze in.


    After the engine started, Zen Master Baimei said, I was abroad to deal with an otherworldly item when Chuyi sent me a message, asking me toe to Changping Vige within three days. I had to return as fast as possible.


    I was surprised and asked, You already knew about Zhao Kuos story?


    I knew about it since three years ago. Zen Master Baimei brought his palms together in front of his chest. Sigh, three years ago, when this Myriad Soul Sword was unearthed, I knew that this day woulde.


    Myriad Soul Sword? When I heard the name, I couldnt help but shiver.


    Yes. It was already a murderous weapon back then. After the Battle of Changping, it had absorbed the Yin energy of four hundred and fifty thousand resentful souls, bing an extremely dangerous otherworldly item. Since it was unearthed, I knew that the consequences were going to be unimaginable.


    What should we do now? I was worried.


    Zen Master Baimei didnt answer me. He turned to talk to Chuyi. Daoist Priest Chuyi, you just met Zhao Kuo, right? Did he tell you his wish? Without a goal, he couldnt have been able to endure that torment for several thousand years.


    Wish? Chuyi thought then said, Yeah, he has a wish. He wants to massacre four hundred and fifty thousand people to fulfill his wish.


    Oh, this Zen Master Baimei sank in his thoughts. If I could throw beans and turn them into humans, it wouldnt be a problem to create four hundred and fifty thousand people for him to kill.


    When he said that, I was thrilled. Zen Master Baimei, do you really know such a skill?


    Unfortunately Zen Master Baimei brought his palms together. I dont know such a skill.


    Why even mention it if you didnt have it?!


    Zen Master Baimei smiled. But I have a solution that might keep the four hundred and fifty thousand resentful souls from reviving


    I didnt understand what Zen Master Baimei meant, so I shot a look at Chuyi.


    He nodded and rolled down the window. He observed the sky then said, Im afraid it wont work. The moon is too bright tonight, and there are no clouds in the sky.


    What time is it? Zen Master Baimei and Chuyi had asked the same question.


    I checked my phone. 11:20 PM.


    Perhaps we can still make it in time. Zen Master Baimei took out his phone and used the hand-free function to dial a number.


    The call went through after the first ring. Zen Master Baimei, its rare for you to call me thiste. Is there anything I can help you with?


    Yeah. Zen Master Baimei said solemnly, Old Wang, use all your means to reach the Air Force. Within half an hour, I want dark clouds to cover the entire sky above Changping Vige.


    Zen Master, are you kidding? How can I contact the Air Force thiste at night?


    Zen Master Baimei said resolutely, Times running out. If we dy this, Im afraid the entire Changping Vige will cease to exist tomorrow.


    What?! The other party hadnt expected the situation to be this serious. However, from his tone, hepletely trusted Zen Master Baimei.


    The man hesitated for a moment then said, All right, what do you need the artificial rain for?


    No, I dont want rain, said Zen Master Baimei, looking pensive. I need dark clouds that can block the moonlight

 Chapter 360: Dripping the Sacrificial Blood

    Chapter 360: Dripping the Sacrificial Blood


    After Zen Master Baimei hung up the call, I asked, Zen Master Baimei, why do we need to use dark clouds to cover the moon?


    It is the first solution, but Im not sure if it''ll work. Zen Master Baimei sighed. Everybody knows that in ancient China, the sun was the source of Yang energy and the moon of Yin energy. During the Ghost Festival, the moons Yin energy is at its strongest. Tonight, the moonlight will awaken a lot of wandering ghosts.


    I understood what Zen Master Baimei meant. Ah... Are you saying that Zhao Kuo wants to use the moonlight to revive the souls of his army?


    Merciful Buddha, exactly. Zen Master Baimei continued, Zhao Kuo and his four hundred and fifty thousand soldiers have umted hate for more than two thousand years. Once they rise from the ground, all hell will break loose.


    Thats why we have to use dark clouds to cover the moonlight and stop the souls from resurrecting, right?


    Zen Master Baimei gave a slight nod.


    What if it doesnt work? I was worried.


    I just hope that Buddha is merciful. As it hase to this, we can only carefully n each move.


    Soon after, we heard nes zoom above our heads. Several of them flew past us and shot bright rockets into the sky.


    The five of us arrived at the destination Zen Master Baimei had described, which was arge valley.


    After we left the car, we saw the rockets fly across the sky and explode in midair.


    After the rockets exploded, the clear night sky and bright moonlight became hazy; dark clouds started to form. I knew those rockets werent weapons but gadgets used to create rainy clouds.


    Shortly after, the temperature dropped. Yin Xinyue inadvertently leaned against my chest. At the same time, I sensed a faint smell of blood that permeated the valley.


    That is... really high-level technology. I admired and sighed.


    Twenty minutester, dark clouds gathered above our heads, and rain gently sprinkled down.


    The originally clear night sky with bright moonlight had turned into a rainy night in a short time.


    Now, I knew why the weather forecast was often incorrect. With this sort of technology, it was hard to always predict it correctly.


    A cold wind began to howl, and more rain poured down.


    I took out my phone and checked the time. It was 11:55 PM.


    There are five minutes left, I said.


    Zen Master Baimei nodded and brought us to a small mountain. Were going to wait here for a while! Helle soon.


    All right. My spirit was boosted.


    Yin Xinyue opened her eyes wide and pointed at a spot in the valley, screaming, Look, shesing!


    Who? I followed Yin Xinyues line of sight. The girl in white was dragging her bronze sword as she walked through the valley.


    Since she was dragging the ancient sword, it nged on the bumpy ground.


    I couldnt help but frown.


    What a waste! The ancient bronze sword in her hands was more than two thousand years old, and it was definitely worth more than ten million renminbi!


    She was inadvertently using it to sweep trash on the ground. It was heart-rending.


    As an antique businessman, the sound of the sword being dragged on the ground was like the scream of a beautiful woman on the verge of death. It was a big distraction for me.


    I was too distracted and started calcting how much money had to be deducted every time the sword rubbed against a rock.


    However, the girl wasnt bothered by the value of the sword.


    Soon after, I noticed that her sword was dripping with blood.


    I saw a cut at her wrist. Her blood flowed along the sword and dripped to the ground.


    What is she doing? asked Yin Xinyue.


    It looks like she wants to use her blood to awaken the souls. I thought it was the only exnation for this.


    We must stop her! said Chuyi.


    As he finished talking, the girl in white suddenly turned her head one hundred and eighty degrees, looking at us.


    I would never forget her face


    Her pale lips parted, which showed her abnormally ck teeth. She looked as though she was mocking us.


    Her eyes had now turnedpletely white, releasing cold light!


    In a sharp voice, she said, Do you think you can stop me like this?


    When I heard her voice, I shuddered. Chuyi drew his sword and jumped down.


    But it seemed it was toote.


    The girl suddenly pointed her sword at the sky. Then, her sword shot a green ray of Yin energy into the sky!


    The ray of Yin energy reached the dark sky, piercing a hole through the thickyer of clouds.


    A strange blue moon quietly appeared after the clouds dispersed. It was the moon that Zhao Kuo had yearned for!


    The blue moonlight illuminated the valley. I checked the time, and it was exactly midnight!


    The girls ck hair suddenly started to fade. Under the ghostly moonlight, it grew longer, growing a dozen meters long in the blink of an eye!


    Amidst the chaos, I heard Zhao Kuos angry roar. Hahahaha! Come back to life! My soldiers, you have been med for two thousand years! Now, its time for you to pick up your weapons and take revenge!


    As the girl screamed, I heard rattling noises from the valleys muddy ground.


    At first, the sound was low. But soon after, it intensified.


    To our dismay, the entire valley began to shake hard!


    Yin Xinyue asked, Zen Master Baimei, is this the ce where Bai Qi deceived and massacred those four hundred thousand soldiers?


    Zen Master Baimei chanted Merciful Buddha then answered, Yes, its right here.


    Immediately after, a shadow slowly wormed out of the ground.


    The pale moonlight shone on the ck skeleton. The corpses soft flesh had dposed, but there were still some pieces of armor on him.


    The skeleton got up from the ground. Then, dozens of soldiers with various levels of dposition crawled out of the ground after him.


    Some of them still had pieces of flesh attached to the skeletons. It seemed they hadnt decayedpletely because of this ces thick Yin energy.


    When around a hundred skeleton soldiers had surrounded the girl in white, I started to smell a horrible stench.


    Chuyi did not waste time and started to attack the skeleton soldiers with his eight-faced Han sword.


    The pungent smell didnt seem to trouble him. Before the skeleton soldiers werepletely revived, the sword in his hand shed, smashing them to pieces.


    Within seconds, Chuyi had killed his way to the girl in white.


    Stop it! Chuyi said coldly, You are doomed to fail. If you stop now, I can perhaps free their souls.


    Hmph! I gave you a chance to run. Why have youe back here to die? After seeing the eight-faced Han sword, Zhao Kuo wielded his sword to parry against Chuyi.


    When Zhao Kuo moved his sword, the dark clouds in the sky gathered again, and the rattling sounds from the ground also stopped.


    What Chuyi was doing was working!

 Chapter 361: Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand Undead Soldiers

    Chapter 361: Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand Undead Soldiers


    Chuyi shouted, You should have left this world already and reincarnated. You shouldnt be here doing things that go against the Heavens will!


    Hmph, I shouldered the mission of the Zhao state to unite the country! How could I give up so easily?


    Zhao Kuos sword shed with Chuyis eight-faced Han sword, sending Chuyi backward. Afterward, he pointed his sword toward the sky to release the ray of Yin energy one more time.


    Chuyi couldnt steady himself and fell onto the muddy ground.


    Coincidently, hended right on top of a skeleton that had just wormed out of the ground.


    That poor skeleton had been sleeping for two thousand years. As soon as it got its first wisp of fresh air, Chuyi smashed it,turning it into a puddle of ck blood and brains.


    Chuyi didnt have time to worry about hygiene. He grabbed his weapon and stormed forward once again.


    This time, Zhao Kuo didnt use his sword to fight against him. His right hand held the sword as he pointed it toward the sky, while his left hand dealt with Chuyi.


    Zhao Kuo was very strong. He only used his left hand, but it was enough to deflect all the attacks from Chuyis sword.


    Chuyi struck seven or eight times, but it was to no avail.


    Zhao Kuo just stood on the spot, without even moving his head.


    He was simply too powerful!


    Zen Master Baimei stood by the valley and looked anxious. Daoist Priest Chuyi is in danger. We should proceed with the second n.


    "Whats the second n?


    While I was still bewildered, Zen Master Baimei held his prayer beads and dashed into the valley like an arrow, storming directly into the group of skeletons.


    I understood what his second n was! It was to attack directly!


    As a young man, I couldntg behind an old monk. I grabbed the Sirius Whip andshed it.


    Company Commander Chen had never seen such a scary scene, but he was still a soldier. He immediately drew his pistol and fired at three skeletons.


    I cleared a path by using a new technique I had learned with my Sirius Whip. The whip moved quickly in my hand, keeping off the enemies.


    Although the skeleton soldiers wererge in number, their intelligence was nothingpared to humans.


    After two thousand years of being worn out underground, they couldnt use their mind freely. They blindly followed Zhao Kuosmand.


    The three of us followed Zen Master Baimei and killed our way toward Zhao Kuo.


    Zhao Kuo rolled his eyes at us. He sneered, Hehe, good. Since youre all here, I will see you off first then


    I didnt waste time and directlyshed the Sirius Whip, coiling around Zhao Kuos sword. I wanted to pull the sword away from his grip.


    Zhao Kuo reacted quickly. After seeing that his sword was blocked, he shook it once, easily freeing it from the whip.


    However, Zhao Kuos resurrection spell was disturbed. At the same time, Zen Master Baimei threw his prayer beads, coiling them around Zhao Kuos neck.


    Chuyi drew his long sword, and cold light shed as he aimed it at Zhao Kuos eyes.


    Zhao Kuo frowned, but he didnt seem bothered by the group of people attacking him.


    Right when all the weapons were about to hit him, he dashed toward the mountain peak.


    Then, he raised the sword again and deliberately shot the green Yin energy into the sky. Zhao Kuos tone grew haughtier. Why do you want to stop me from taking revenge for my people? Hmph, actually, I understand. Youre the Qin states descendants. Of course, you have to stop me since I want to kill the Qin people!


    Zhao Kuo shouted at the skeletons, My brothers from the State of Zhao, help me kill these Qin people!


    Before he finished talking, thousands of skeleton soldiers had already surrounded us.


    We were able to deal with a few skeleton soldiers at once, but it was impossible to deal with an army.


    Although they held rusted bronze weapons, our bodies were made of flesh and blood.


    As they surrounded us inyers, we could only leave it to fate.


    At this moment, Company Commander Chen had used up all of his bullets. Although our weapons could temporarily stop the skeleton army, we couldnt hold on for long.


    We thought of clearing a path to reach Zhao Kuo at the mountain top.


    But the skeleton soldiers swarmed us and pushed us downward, sending us further away from the mountain top.


    Although it was easy to destroy those skeleton soldiers, they were able to rebuild their bodies and return to their previous state very quickly.


    These bastards seem unstoppable! How can they be so intimidating?


    We were backed into a corner. The more we fought, the more tired and down-spirited we became.


    Zen Master Baimei, do you have a third n? I screamed.


    Zen Master Baimeished his beads and smashed a skull. Merciful Buddha I dont have a third n.


    This time, Chuyi said indifferently, The third n is to Run!


    R- Run? I was surprised.


    At this moment, a hundred thousand soldiers had already crawled their way out of the valley. I couldnt even imagine what would happen now.


    While there is life, there is hope! said Chuyi.


    I couldnt deny that it was the best thing Chuyi had ever told me.


    As it hade to this, I didnt want to die in vain. When Company Commander Chen heard that we wanted to run, he pointed at the distant off-road car, which was surrounded by the skeletons. If we can get in the car, we can crush those skeletons and run away.


    I looked at Zhao Kuo, who stood on the mountain top. I knew that we wouldnt be able to catch him today, so I just nodded. We should get in the car.


    As we discussed,ughter echoed from the darkness. Haha, so you''re just nning to run instead of fighting? My good grandson, are you trying to make your grandpa lose face?


    That voice was stern, but it gave me a familiar and loving feeling.


    Isnt that my grandpas voice?


    I was thrilled. I knew that my grandfather hade to support us, so I quickly turned around. I saw my grandpa strolling toward us. His hands were sped behind his back, and he wore an old-fashioned Chinese tunic suit.


    Grandpa, why are you here? Although I knew it was a meaningless question, I couldnt help but ask.


    Why? Youre displeased that Im here?


    My grandpas figure was faintly discernible. He pointed at Zhao Kuo. General Zhao! Youve been dead for two thousand years. Why are you still bothering with the past? Arent you afraid of eternal damnation?


    Zhao Kuo seemed not to know my grandpas identity. He growled, Where did youe from, old man? Why do you want to put your nose in someone elses business?


    Grandpa smiled. Im a Netherworld Messenger. Of course, I have the power to mind your business.


    When I heard that, I asked, Grandpa, since youre a Netherworld Messenger, can you stop Zhao Kuo from resurrecting his four hundred and fifty thousand soldiers?


    The Heavens will cant be disclosed. Grandpa shook his head, then gently stroked his beard. General Zhao, as long as you drop your sword and order your undead army to retreat, I will turn a blind eye to what happened here, and you can be reincarnated. How does that sound?


    Save your breath, old man! Zhao Kuo said in a cold voice. Even if the King of Hell himselfes, I wont stop!


    You brought this upon yourself. Dont me me for showing you no mercy. Then, my grandpa took out a small sword that was covered in ck scales.


    The small sword didnt have a tip, and the de looked blunt. However, I could still sense the murderous energy that exuded from it.


    The murderous aura could even overwhelm that of the four hundred and fifty thousand soldiers!


    My grandpa raised the small sword and closed his eyes, muttering, My dear treasure, please turn around!


    After saying this strange sentence, he opened his eyes all of a sudden.

 Chapter 362: Coming Back From the Dead

    Chapter 362: Coming Back From the Dead


    Zhao Kuos facial expression changed. He looked frightened.


    A dark light appeared and cut through the sky. Right after, the small sword in my grandpas hand disappeared, and the dark light cut Zhao Kuos neck.


    The girls head was cut off. It flew away into the distance, with blood spurting several meters high into the sky.


    The bronze sword slipped through her fingers, nging on the ground.


    A wisp of dark smoke detached itself from the ancient bronze sword. It rose as if it was about to run away, but my grandfather didnt give it the chance to do so. He took out a small porcin bottle and aimed it at the dark smoke.


    The wisp of dark smoke shook as if it had encountered its archenemy. It rushed back and forth in the air but couldnt escape my grandfathers palm. Grandpa opened his eyes wide, and the wisp was eventually sucked into the small bottle.


    At the same time, all the skeleton soldiers in the valley had turned into soulless vessels. They cracked and slumped, with their bones and armor scattering on the ground.


    I thought about taking some belongings from those skeletons topensate for the trauma I had suffered. However, the skeletons were like ice cubes on the ground. They slowly melted away.


    Zen Master Baimei brought his palms together. Merciful Buddha.


    I didnt know if Zen Master Baimeis Merciful Buddha chants had any real power. Regardless, it made people feel morefortable.


    Perhaps this Buddhist mantra could free Zhao Kuos soul.


    Yin Xinyue descended from the mountain nk to the valley. Its a pity that the little girl couldnt make it. Her voice was gloomy.


    I was reminded that the little girl was dead along with Zhao Kuo. My grandpa had beheaded her body.


    Grandpa strolled toward me with his hands sped behind his back. Its okay. This little girls life hasnt ended yet. I have a solution.


    Then, he asked me to go and pick up her head.


    Although the girls head was detached from her body, she was still breathing. When I saw her, I was shocked.


    Grandpa squatted and put a talisman into her mouth. He then advised us, When you head back, get a coffin made from a willow tree. It should be from old willow trees that have been growing for more than thirty years by a river. Attach her head to her body and ce her body into the coffin with forty-nine leeches. Then, bury the coffin and wait for three days before unearthing it. She will wake up when the timees.


    I was puzzled since this method didnt sound that reliable.


    Zen Master Baimei suddenly asked, Brother Yaoyang are you leaving already?


    I lifted my head and saw that my grandfather had walked a dozen of meters already. Only the shadow of his back was visible.


    I hurried to call him. Grandpa? You havent seen your granddaughter-inw yet!


    I did


    I wanted to talk to him more, but my grandpa quickened his pace.


    I rushed after him, but his figure dimmed in the dark. Eventually, he disappeared.


    I felt a little hurt as I looked in his direction, not knowing what to say.


    Later that night, Company Commander Chen let us stay in the watchtower.


    While we stayed in Company Commander Chens room, we started to boisterously discuss the ancient bronze sword.


    I cant believe that an ordinary-looking ancient sword could create such a horrible disaster, I said.


    A sword is just a dead item. Peoples hate triggered the disaster, not the sword, said Chuyi.


    Company Commander Chen didnt understand our business. However, he had seen the skeletonse back to life with his own eyes.


    If I didnt see it with my own eyes, I would never have believed that ghosts really existed in this world. Company Commander Chen began to sweat.


    Merciful Buddha. Zen Master Baimei brought his palms together in front of his chest. Benefactor Chen, youd better forget this event.


    Why is that? Company Commander Chen was surprised.


    Because our country doesnt ept superstitious beliefs, said Zen Master Baimei.


    But there are myriads of skeletons in this valley. There is firm evidence, isnt there? Theres no way to deny it! Company Commander Chen wasnt convinced.


    Zen Master Baimei shook his head. Youre still young. Benefactor Chen, if you dont believe me, tomorrow, you can send someone to search the valley. But Im sure you wont even be able to find half a bone.


    Zen Master Baimei was very direct. At first, Company Commander Chen wasnt pleased. However, after thinking about the rtionship between Zen Master Baimei and the higher-ups, he didnt dare toment any further.


    The next day at dawn, Company Commander Chen, who wanted to see this through, sent two military trucks with his soldiers to the mountain to unearth the skeletons.


    It was exactly as Zen Master Baimei had told him. They dug the ce for three days but found nothing.


    The skeleton soldiers that had swarmed us like a rising tide had vanished into thin air. No one knew where they had gone.


    In the end, since the bronze sword was a national treasure, we handed it to a museum in Wuhan City. The curators made it their most important item in the museum and disyed it in the most eye-catching position.


    Although my heart ached, we had no choice. I was just an ordinary antique merchant, and while I could buy antiques, I didnt dare to touch national treasures.


    I knew this the moment I saw the bronze sword. The task wasnt going to be profitable, and the risks involved were too great. That was why I didnt want to ept the mission.


    But in the end, I still became involved in this event.


    After one week, the girl woke up. The cut on her neck had miraculously healed, and she didnt have any recollection of the event. She said that she had a long dream where she had be a general and was hit by many arrows.


    We all knew she had seen Zhao Kuos memory.


    The girls name was Zhao Lin, and although it was impossible to check if her ancestor was really a fellow of the Zhao state during the Warring States Period, we had enough reason to believe that she was Zhao Kuos descendant.


    Everybody had a grudge. The only difference was the way they chose to deal with it.


    The more one thought about it, the more the mes of hatred in their heart would burn, consuming them.


    After the tribtion, brothers would meet and forget all grudges!

 Chapter 363: A God-Level Tycoon

    Chapter 363: A God-Level Tycoon


    The following case was the biggest one I had ever epted since I entered this business.


    The otherworldly item involved was also the toughest I had ever encountered. That was why I considered it important to mention here.


    I got up early that morning. I had yet to open my shop when my abdomen started aching a lot. I had to call Yin Xinyue and asked her toe.


    I moved toward the medicine box to grab some safflower oil and rub it on my belly, but I was careless and tripped. I couldnt get up and could only whimper in pain.


    When Yin Xinyue arrived and saw me, she was scared out of her wits. She immediately called an ambnce.


    I was sent to the hospital, where I learned that I had appendicitis.


    I had a minimally invasive surgery to cut my appendix, and the doctor told me that I should stay at the hospital for a few days, as they were afraid of infection.


    I suffered quite a bit, but I was all right by 7:00 PM. Yin Xinyue pulled my ear and nagged, You never pay attention to what you eat and always order takeaways! Do you know how much I was worried?


    Honey, its just the appendix. Everybody will need it cut off sooner orter. Im lucky that I had you with me today.


    No need to curry favors.


    To let me rest well, Yin Xinyue booked me a single patient room. I turned on the TV and watched it for a while, but I was still bored. I asked Yin Xinyue to go downstairs and buy me a few online novels to read.


    Why do you always turn into a child when you get sick? Rest well. Ill stay with you tonight, said Yin Xinyue.


    Its okay. I can get out of bed now I said weakly.


    Yin Xinyue pouted her lips. Didnt you listen to the doctor? You have to stay in bed for three days.


    I sighed deeply.Three days... Thats a very long time. I havent gotten sick in two years, and I never had to stay in the hospital!


    Yin Xinyue kept her head low and yed on her phone.


    What are you doing? I asked.


    Im buying you some health insurance online. It will ease my mind a little bit.


    I was touched and thought that I had to treat her better in the future.


    Seeing that it was almost 10:00 PM, I urged her to go home as it wasnt good to stay in the hospital. However, Yin Xinyue didnt want to leave.


    I asked, Do you have a mirror?


    Yin Xinyue gave me the hand mirror in her bag.


    Im going to do a small experiment to show you how dangerous a hospital can be. Do you have apass app on your phone? I said mysteriously.


    Yeah, I think so.


    Open it.


    I wiped the mirror clean and carefully inched it ording to thepasss needle. When it pointed towards the Death Gate of the Qimen Dunjia, [1] I asked Yin Xinyue to look at the mirror. She shrieked and hurried to cover her mouth. Oh my God, theres someone else in this room!


    What does he look like? I smiled.


    Hes wearing patient clothes like you, and his pale face is covered in blood. Actually, he doesnt have any color on his face. Yin Xinyue was afraid it would bring us bad luck.


    Do you understand now? Go home. These are ghosts of people who have died in the hospital. They still have something that they yearn for. Thats why they havent left yet. I have strong Yang energy, so Im not afraid of them, I exined.


    Can you protect me with your strong Yang energy, too? Yin Xinyue hugged me.


    As we talked, we heard somemotion downstairs. Since I felt better now, I suggested to Yin Xinyue to go downstairs and check it out.


    As it was a minimally invasive surgery, the wound wasnt big. We then descended the staircases.


    The inpatient ward was opposite to the emergency unit. It was separated by a huge yard where several locust trees grew. At first nce, I med this hospital for not having the proper knowledge. Why did they nt Yin-attracting trees here? But, when I checked the hospitals geomancy, I understood.


    The entire yard was surrounded by buildings, leaving only a small path. From a distance, it looked like an open bag.


    ording to geomancy, this kind of setting was called, Indestructible Ring. It was exquisitely set up to usher the bad things out and to protect the people inside.


    Id heard that all of the big hospitals nned things meticulously before setting up their geomancy. When they built the hospital, they invited professional geomancers to check and consult on the matter. It seemed it wasnt just a rumor.


    At this moment, there were seven or eight cars crowding the entrance. I guessed there was some dispute with the hospital and that the family of the patient hade to cause trouble.


    A woman dressed luxuriously was sobbing and screaming at the doctors. Standing next to her were a few burly men who wore ck suits and ck sunsses. I guessed they were her bodyguards. The woman was begging the doctors whole-heartedly. However, the doctors wore a reluctant face.


    I wasnt a talkative person, so I just nned to take a look without interfering.


    As we prepared to leave, we heard the leaves above our heads rattling and falling. Many yellow leaves fell from above. At the same time, an unimaginably strong wave of air rippled through the hospital.


    I was astonished and lifted my head to look. The locust trees in the yard were withering at a speed the naked eye could observe. At the same time, the burly bodyguards were unloading a massive item from the back of a pick-up truck. The ripple of air exuded from that item.


    I knew it was an otherworldly item, a very intimidating one at that!


    Most of the otherworldly items were full of Yin energy, but there was an exception to everything. The item in front of us was an extreme Yang item. Due to its fierce Yang energy, it had instantly killed the locust trees in the yard.


    I couldnt help but get closer. I wanted to learn its background.


    The thing looked hefty. It was covered under a water-proof camouge canvas and secured by several ropes. It was as if they didnt want people to know what was underneath. I observed and spotted two wheels beneath the item. Moreover, it had the shape of a long, big cylindrical object. I guessed it was a big cannon.


    If this otherworldly item was a real cannon, I had only one thing to say It was surely going to be explosively amazing!


    During the Song dynasty, people used big cannons in battle. Until the Ming dynasty, cannons were improved and became crucial for defending cities.


    The Ming dynasty depended on big cannons to resist foreign forces for hundreds of years. In the era of cold weapons, cannons were no different from powerful missiles in the modern world.


    After all, even if a sword was extremely sharp, how many people could it kill? Cannons could shoot nonstop and take innumerable lives very quickly. ording to rumors, if it was kept in a house, it could protect the entire house from evils.


    Since this sort of item was formidable, ordinary people couldnt control it. If the item was kept in a house for half a year, women might die. Men with insufficient Yang energy would be gone, too.


    In all the regions in China, I knew that only Li Ka-shing, the richest businessman in Hong Kong, had buried a sting cannon from the Song dynasty underneath his vi.


    I had never seen such an item before. Not even my grandfather had ever encountered this type of otherworldly item in his life.


    Eight bodyguards clenched their jaws to shoulder the huge item. It was strenuous, but they had managed to bring it to the rich woman.


    The rich woman wiped her face with a handkerchief, begging the doctor with tears in her eyes. President, have mercy and ept my request. If something bad happens to my husband, my son and I will be ruined, too


    The president said reluctantly, Ms. Lu, I understand your feelings. Thats why Ive arranged the best neurologist in our hospital to carry out your husbands surgery. We will try our best to save his life. The operation will begin shortly. Do not trouble us, please!


    Why do you say that? Even that expert said that my husbands Yang is at the top and that this thing can help him turn danger into safety. I just want to put it near my husband to ensure the sess rate of his surgery. Why isnt that okay? Isnt curing people your holy duty, doctor?


    The president forced a smile as he looked at the item. The operation room has to be clean all the time. We dont know how old this thing is or where ites from. What if it carries some bacteria? What to do in that case?


    Yin Xinyue was curious and asked a nurse standing next to her, Whats going on?


    Our doctors have found arge brain tumor in her husbands head. Its very close to an important vein, so the surgery is pretty risky. They''re going to operate today, but she suddenly brought a cannon to the hospital and asked us to ce it in the operation room. She wants to use it to help her husband get through this difficult time


    After that, the young nurse put on a disdainful face. She thinks shes better than anyone else because she got some dirty money. Moreover, its not like this hospital belongs to her family...


    But then, her words came true. When the president didnt give way, the rich woman pped her hands to call a chubby secretary standing behind her. The chubby secretary bowed to her and asked what she needed.


    Buy this hospital for me! Right now!


    Then, she pointed at the president and bellowed, Hmph. You cant even satisfy this wish of mine. Wait until you see yourself fired!


    Everybody was so stunned that their mouths were wide open. The president was also dumbstruck.


    She absolutely wasnt a parvenu. She was a God-level tycoon!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qimen_Dunjia

 Chapter 364: The Red Barbarian Cannon

    Chapter 364: The Red Barbarian Cannon


    In the end, the cannon was sent to the operation room, and the onlookers dispersed.


    Brother Zhang, do you feel cold? We should head back to your room! said Yin Xinyue.


    We then returned to my room.


    At 11:00 PM, I, once again, urged Yin Xinyue to go home. She wasnt pleased, but I managed to convince her in the end.


    Iy on my bed but couldnt fall asleep as the cannon was still in my thoughts. It wasnt that I was greedy for money. The problem was that I had been dealing with otherworldly items for a long time, and now that I had bumped into such a powerful otherworldly item, my interest was piqued.


    In the end, I called Li Mazi. The phone rang six times before he picked up. His loudining echoed through the line. Little Brother Zhang, why did you call me sote at night? Can we talk tomorrow if you have something to say? I need my personal space, okay?


    I faked a feeble voice. Li Mazi, Im in the hospital.


    What happened? Li Mazis tone changed.


    You should hurry. Im in Hospital No.3. If yourete, you might not be able to see me again.


    You Youre not kidding, right? All right, Iming! Wait for me!


    Then, he hung up. Although Li Mazi had a lot of bad habits, he was a good man who valued friendship.


    Half an hourter, he stormed into my room. After seeing me lying on the bed in a patient uniform, his face paled. Little Brother Zhang, you looked fine two days ago. How did you suddenly fall ill? What kind of disease do you have? Is it curable?


    I mouthed some words and pretended to sound like I was dying. Its not a big problem... but the doctor said that they will have to remove one of my organs...


    What?! Your organ needs to be removed, and youre here saying that its not a big problem? Li Mazi''s voice trembled, and his eyes started to tear up. Weve been through so much, and I know you wont be defeated by some disease! Little Brother Zhang, you cant fall, no matter what. You dont want Yin Xinyue to be a widow, right? We have money now. Which organ is it? I will get it for you, even if I have to kidnap somebody


    Then, Li Mazi suddenly saw the patients checking card on my bed. It read, Appendicitis Surgery.


    He immediately punched my stomach.


    "You little bastard! You deceived me!


    I didnt. Isnt the appendix also an organ? Iughed and cried at the same time as Li Mazi happened to hit right at my wound.


    Li Mazi was so mad he wanted to leave, but I called him back and told him that I had some big news.


    Li Mazi impatiently grabbed a chair and sat next to me. If you fool me one more time, things will be over between us.


    I told him about what had happened in the hospital. Li Mazi was surprised. Do you think her husbands operation will seed?


    Im not a doctor, I answered.


    Then, I understood what Li Mazi meant. If something unexpected happened during the operation, we could seize the chance and jump in, taking the cannon.


    I smiled. Li Mazi, youre really cunning.


    I had called him here to go around and ask for more information. After all, I was a patient, so it wasnt convenient for me to move around.


    Li Mazi agreed and left the room, headed to the emergency ward.


    After he left, I used my phone to ess the hospitals official website. The hospital was now owned by a newpany. It was a well-known multinational oilpany that had branches even in Saudi Arabia and Iraq. I now knew the rich womans identity.


    Li Mazi was gone for quite a long time, and he had yet to return, so I slowly drifted into sleep.


    When it was almost dawn, Li Mazi shook me awake. I opened my eyes and saw him with dark circles underneath his eyes but very excited.


    Theres hope! Theres hope! said Li Mazi excitedly.


    What hope? I asked.


    It turned out Li Mazi had been waiting outside the operation room. When he saw the rich woman, he introduced himself as a renowned expert in the otherworldly items business.


    He pretended to be mysterious and told her that he had suddenly sensed intimidating energy in this hospital while passing by. He knew there was an otherworldly item, so he came to check. He had tracked it all the way to the operation room. After calcting with his fingers, he had discovered that this cannon was from the Ming or the Qing dynasty.


    The rich woman bought it. She started to talk with Li Mazi and asked him if her husband could get over this challenge.


    Li Mazi told her that this cannon was an extreme Yang energy item. If the users birth chart wasnt good enough, the item would kill them. However, in her husbands case, his birth chart was pretty good. So, in theory, he would be all right.


    However, just because his birth chart was good, it didnt mean that he waspletely safe. Li Mazi carefully analyzed the rich womans husbands birth chart, telling her that there was an evil person in his destiny that would trouble him. They had to be very cautious, especially at a moment like this.


    The rich woman totally agreed with him and thought that Li Mazi was a real expert. She even gave him her contact details.


    "Now, we just need to wait until something happens to her husband. Then, its showtime. Li Maziughed despicably.


    Why do I suddenly feel that your thoughts are getting worse and worse? I asked.


    Our business isnt different from running a coffin shop, is it? Normally, we would help people here and there. But if no one ever used an otherworldly item carelessly, nothing bad would happen. And then, we would have no business to run.


    He had a point.


    The sky got brighter. I took a look at the yard from my window, and the cars were still there.


    Why is the operation taking this much time? Li Mazi asked.


    Its a neurological surgery. They are operating someones brain. An operation like this canst for more than ten hours! I said.


    After the nurse came and changed my bandage, I changed my clothes and went out with Li Mazi to find something to eat. When we returned and passed by the Intensive Care Unit, we saw the doctors push a patient into a sickroom. The rich woman followed closely behind; she had dark circles under her eyes. A group of bodyguards and her secretary followed her.


    From her expression, I guessed that her husbands life wasnt in danger.


    He was the pir of her family. If he was gone, the rich woman would lose everything. That was why she was so dedicated.


    I turned to the operation wards corridor and looked around.


    What are you looking for? asked Li Mazi.


    Its empty.


    Isnt that obvious? The surgery is done. Why would anyone be there? Li Maziughed.


    I didnt mean that. Not only were there no people in this corridor, but there were also no ghosts. There was not even a wisp of Yin energy.


    It seemed this cannon was really powerful!


    A sports car arrived at the scene, and a young man with good skin and smooth hair jumped out of it. As he walked, he took off his sunsses.


    When he saw us, he asked impolitely, Hey, theres a guy who got his brain tumor removed. Did he die?


    I hated rude people like him a lot, so I casually answered, Dunno.


    The young man pulled a doctor and asked the same question again. When he got a confirming answer that the big bosss surgery was a sess, he smacked his tongue and looked disdainful.


    The rich woman walked out. Since Li Mazi was afraid that she would recognize him, he picked up a magazine and covered his face.


    As soon as the woman saw the young man, she walked forward and pped him.


    Youre a heartless, filthy animal! Your brother was in the operation room for ten hours, and you didnt even ask once about his condition. You ran to the bar and partied, didnt you? Why are you here now? Do you want to confirm if hes dead or not? scolded the woman.


    The young man rubbed his red face and sneered. No one has ever dared to hit me. I respect you because youre my sister-inw, but you shouldnt forget that youre not a member of the Shen family. If one day my brother isnt here to protect you, you know itll be the end for you, right?


    After talking, the young man turned around and left. The rich woman snorted then returned to the room.


    Thepetition in rich families is really dramatic. It feels like watching a soap opera! Li Mazi sighed.


    I now noticed that he was holding a weekly magazine for pregnant women. He also recognized that and gave me an embarrassed smile.


    Did you read anything nice?


    I did! You should take this chance and read it too. I guess youll need it in two days Then, he secretly handed me the magazine. I just smiled and pushed him away.

 Chapter 365: The Famous Anti-Qing General Yuan Chonghuan

    Chapter 365: The Famous Anti-Qing General Yuan Chonghuan


    When Li Mazi and I returned to my room, we saw Yin Xinyue. She rolled her eyes at me. Why did you run out so early in the morning? You made me worried. I called you several times, but you didnt pick up!


    Li Mazi insisted that I had beef noodles, I said as I fabricated a story.


    Hey little brother, dont me it on me. Youre the greedy one that wanted to make some quick money! Li Mazi cried out.


    What? Quick money? Yin Xinyue became skeptical.


    Li Mazi told her about the big cannon.


    Yin Xinyue pinched me. You havent even recovered yet, and youre already thinking about otherworldly items? Do you have an upational disease?


    I sat down and used my phone to search for the rich womans husbands information. I soon found what I was looking for. The man was named Shen Yanchen, and he was the president of a multinational oilpany. The man had a lot of titles before and after his name. There was also a link about his brother, Shen Hongbin. I clicked the link and felt surprised.


    I had thought that Shen Hongbin was leading a life of debauchery, so I was surprised to see that he had a masters degree from Oxford University. He had also set up a medical institution for charity.


    However, our first impression of him was really bad. Li Mazi cussed, He used his brother''s money to do charity. This fe knows how to build a reputation! What a pretentious rascal!


    Yin Xinyue said, Sometimes, we cant tell if a persons good or bad from the first impression. I met a person like that in the film studio. She had a bad reputation in the industry, and it was rumored that she had slept with the director to buy all kinds of famous-brand clothes. They even said that she had bullied the makeup artists. However, after knowing her for a while, Ive found that shes a pretty nice person. Shes friendly and kind. It turned out someone had hired theizens to fabricate negative rumors to shame her


    Who is that? Is she pretty? I asked. Yin Xinyue just snorted and ignored me.


    Li Mazi had stayed up the whole night and was no longer able to put up with the tiredness. I just let him sleep on my patient bed.


    I went out with Yin Xinyue and saw that the cars were still parked outside the hospital. That rich woman was really patient.


    After we left the hospital, we went to the flower and pet market. Yin Xinyue had recently been interested in keeping a pet. I wasnt that interested in keeping dogs or cats, but I didnt hate them, either.


    After lunch, we returned to the hospital. As there was a loudmotion from the Intensive Care Unit, we went over to take a look.


    When we got close to the oil tycoons room, we heard banging noises as if someone was throwing things. A man was screaming in the room. The corrupted officials plotted against me! The corrupted officials harmed me!


    Darling, darling, what happened to you? The rich woman stood in front of the room, covering her teary face with a handkerchief. A lot of expensive medical equipment was scattered on the ground, and the bodyguards in the rear wore helpless expressions.


    I took the chance and called Li Mazi. I asked him toe over here.


    The tycoon seemed to be tired out from throwing things. He sat by the door and sighed. "A life''s work has ended up in vain, and all of my achievements were worth nothing. I do not worry aboutcking brave warriors after my death, for my loyal spirit will continue to guard Liaodong forever."


    I remembered it was a short poem written by a famous general before he died. I pondered for a while and discovered the origin of the otherworldly item.


    Li Mazi quickly rushed over. He checked the corridor and saw the rich woman. He quickly took out a smallb to tidy his messy hair. He then adjusted his clothes and walked over.


    Whats going on? He muttered to me.


    I told him about the situation and my assumption. Li Mazi winked at me and walked confidently toward the rich woman. Benefactor, we meet again.


    Grandmaster, youre here! The rich woman looked as if she had just seen her savior. She rushed toward him. As soon as my husband woke up, he turned into this. Grandmaster, please see if something has possessed him.


    Li Mazi counted his fingers. All of a sudden, he frowned. The rich woman became anxious. Grandmaster, did you notice something?


    The departed soul that has possessed your husband isnt an ordinary soul. Hes Yuan Chonghuan [1], the Commander in Chief of Liaodong from theter years of the Ming dynasty.


    How bold of you! You dare to call my name?! The tycoon sitting on the ground suddenly growled.


    When the rich woman saw that Li Mazi had gotten everything right at the first try, she was totally convinced. She asked respectfully, Grandmaster, do you know how to solve this?


    Of course Li Mazi proudly raised his head and waved at me. My apprentice,e here!


    I couldnt ruin his performance, so I had to pretend to be his apprentice. Master, is there anything you need me to do?


    Li Mazi introduced Yin Xinyue and me to the rich woman. The rich woman just gave us a nod and pretty much ignored us.


    Li Mazi ordered, Prepare something for me.


    What do you need? I asked.


    With a stern face, he shouted at me, Youve been following me for so long, and youre still asking me what I need? Our usual stuff!


    Li Mazis acting skills could get him an Oscar for sure.


    I observed the tycoon and made some calctions in my head. Normally, Li Mazi was the one in charge of preparing the necessary items. Since I was asked to go and find them this time, I was at a loss.


    Master, are they ck beans, realgar wine, refined salt, and hemp rope?


    Good apprentice! Li Mazi nodded. We have no time to waste. Hurry and prepare the items!


    I grimaced. I dont know where to get them.


    The rich woman said, Its not a big deal. Ill ask my men to buy them.


    Then, she asked her bodyguards to seize the time and buy everything needed.


    Li Mazi asked, Little Brother Zhang, are those enough to deal with Yuan Chonghuan?


    It should be, I said.


    Can you give me a precise answer? What if it doesnt work? I dont mind losing face, but losing the client would be bad! Li Mazi said.


    Yuan Chonghuan was a pce graduate that didnt have the strength to truss a chicken. Although he never killed people on the battlefield, he still managed to be a general. He was one of those rare Confucian generals.


    Back then, the Qing army had attacked the Ming dynastys Liaodong border many times. Although the Ming dynasty had sent elite forces and their army to build defending walls and fortresses, they couldnt stop the blood-thirsty Qing army outside. Yuan Chonghuan came forth and submitted his five-year n to settle Liaodong to Emperor Chongzhen.


    Emperor Chongzhen was pleased. He ordained Yuan Chonghuan as the Commander in Chief of Liaodong and asked him to lead hundreds of thousands of elite soldiers. Yuan Chonghuan waspetent. After he got his position, he had several furious battles that made his military tactics shine. The Manchurian Qing people considered Yuan Chonghuan their biggest problem! They immediately plotted against him and made the Ming dynasty misunderstand his intentions. Soon after, Yuan Chonghuan was arrested and taken back to the imperial city, where a slow death sentence was awaiting him. Many folks didnt know the truth and thought that Yuan Chonghuan was a traitor. Thousands of people came forward to ask for his head.


    It was said that his sentence was unprecedentedly tragic. Yuan Chonghuans flesh was sliced off and eaten, and only his skeleton remained. It wasnt hard to imagine how resentful he was.


    I guessed that normal tricks wouldnt be enough to deal with him. Li Mazi, I have to return to my shop. You stay here and see what you can do to calm the situation.


    When I returned to my shop, I immediately grabbed the Peach Soul Flower and some talismans. I also took the Sirius Whip before rushing back to the hospital.


    I could hear Yuan Chonghuans loud voice even before entering the room. Li Mazi had asked people to tie him on the bed with the salt-covered hemp rope. At the same time, he threw handfuls of ck beans at him. The ck beans that hit Yuan Chonghuan dried up and yellowed as if they were fried, leaving light burn marks on his skin.


    Every time Li Mazi sprinkled the ck beans, Yuan Chonghuan growled and scolded. However, since he was a Confucian graduate, he would only say something like bold peasant or ignorant scoundrel, which werent really bad words.


    The rich woman stood aside, dumbfounded. She wiped her husbands sweat from time to time and was awed by Li Mazis skills.


    As Li Mazi threw ck beans, he mumbled something and pretended to chant a spell. From time to time, his eyes shot out of the room. When he saw me, he exhaled in relief.


    I guessed that if I was a littlete, he would no longer have tricks up his sleeve.


    Anyway, it was as I had guessed. Yuan Chonghuans soul was really strong, and ordinary methods werent enough to deal with him. I immediately handed Li Mazi the Peach Soul Flower. Master, take the magic tool!


    All right!


    Li Mazi was delighted. He used the Peach Soul Flower to gently touch Yuan Chonghuans forehead. Right after, thetter convulsed as if he had received an electric shock. The bodyguards held him down until his eyes rolled to the back of his head and he fell unconscious.


    The rich woman exhaled and asked. Grandmaster, is my husband all right now?


    Ive subdued the evil soul in his body


    Li Mazi shot me a discreet, questioning look. I shook my head and signaled at him to not confirm anything because I wasnt certain yet. Li Mazi quickly changed his words. But I need to observe the situation some more to know if I can summon your husbands soul back.


    The rich woman, who had just calmed down, was now tense again. You cant solve it at once? My husband manages more than thirty oilpanies. He earns millions of renminbi each day, and ourpany cant afford his absence even for half a day. Due to his sickness, ourpanys share has dropped more than 3%. I know exports like you like to keep tricks up their sleeve. Please, if you have any skills that you have yet to use, use it now. I promise the payment will please you.


    Li Mazi shook his head. I didnt conceal anything from you. This cmity is something your husband is destined to face!


    When the rich woman heard that, she was scared. Grandmaster, what do you mean with that?


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuan_Chonghuan

 Chapter 366: Sentenced to Be Dismembered

    Chapter 366: Sentenced to Be Dismembered


    Li Mazi began to fabricate a random story and said that the rich womans husband was Yuan Chonghuan in his previous life. People had plotted against him, which eventually led to his death; that was why he hated traitors. After he was reincarnated, there was still a traitor in his life, thus the anger and desire to kill that person.


    I was afraid that the more Li Mazi talked, the more problems he could cause. I faked a cough and pulled him back to the topic of the otherworldly item.


    Its not that we dont have a solution to deal with this problem, but we must find something that has a close rtion with Yuan Chonghuan first. If I am not wrong, this big cannon used to be the item he and his subordinates used. May I ask how you got this cannon? asked Li Mazi.


    We know a famous Daoist priest that is very good at fortune-telling. I consult him about everything I do. I did the same when my husband got sick.


    When she discovered that her husband had a brain tumor, she went to that priest to check her husbands fate. The priest told her that her husband might not be able to survive this tribtion. The rich woman was scared and begged him to save her husband at any cost.


    The Daoist priest contemted for quite a long time before saying, We need an item that can protect your husband and save his life. It might be best if you could find some ancient firearms. Blood will be spilled during the surgery, so its an event rted to the metal tribtion. Fire, on the other hand, has the power to subdue the metal tribtion.


    The woman immediately sent her people to look around. Coincidentally, they soon found an antique merchant who said that he had a Red Barbarian Cannon from the Ming dynasty. The merchant said that he would sell it at the price of ten million renminbi. The rich woman didnt think twice before buying it.


    I listened to her story and had a feeling that she was tricked and unknowingly took home an otherworldly item.


    cing an otherworldly item in the operation room to turn a bad situation into a good one was a brainless thing to do.


    Anybody in this business would shake their head if they heard this story.


    No matter how good a mans vitality was, the moment his chest or abdomen was cut open, his Yang energy would be weakened. At that point, it was easy to attract evil spirits. If an otherworldly item was ced near him, he would be possessed in the best case, and be killed in the worst.


    The tycoon was lucky that the doctors were skilled.


    Li Mazi nodded. Let me tell you something, we are actually otherworldly item merchants. Weve dealt with dozens of otherworldly items, big and small. But ording to the rule in this business, after the case is solved, well take the otherworldly item.


    The rich woman asked in puzzlement, Otherworldly item? Do you mean this big cannon? Thats fine. As long as you can save my husband, you can take the cannon. And, I will pay you ten million renminbi as amission.


    Ten million Li Mazi gasped. He faked a cough to cover his excitement. Let alone him, when I heard this number, I also felt my legs turn into jelly.


    Li Mazi pretended to look aloof andughed. Oh, moneys not important. You should let us see the cannon first!


    Please follow me. The rich woman nodded.


    We followed her to the garage behind the hospital, where the ambnces were parked. After the surgery was done, she had asked the bodyguards to move the cannon there.


    Anyway, this hospital belonged to her family now.


    We walked up to the garage, and the woman asked her guard to open the door. The gate slowly rolled up, which revealed the empty space inside.


    The rich woman was surprised and asked her bodyguards, Did anybodye here?


    The guards shook their heads and said that they had kept the key the entire time and that they hadnt opened the garage sincest night.


    I carefully walked into the garage. Suddenly, I spotted a dark red liquid substance on the wall. I dipped my index finger into it and brought my finger to my nose. That liquid had the stench of rotten food.


    Its ghost blood, I said.


    What Li Mazi suddenly remembered that the rich woman was still here. To maintain the image of a master, he pulled himself together and said in a serious tone, My apprentice, check and tell me where this ghost blood came from.


    I observed the ghost blood on my finger. Since it was full of Yin energy and a living person with ample Yang energy like me had poked it, it was like a water droplet under the sunlight. It evaporated shortly after.


    As the name suggests, ghost bloodes from a ghost. Although the cannon has extreme Yang energy, it also has a strong murderous aura! A hospital is always a ce that gathers Yin energy. Naturally, there will be many ghosts. The cannon has awakened them, I exined. Just imagine a dark room where many people are sleeping. All of a sudden, someone shines a shlight into the room. Of course, the people in the room wont be happy. They would look for a way to turn off the shlight. The two parties fought one another. In the end, the big cannon killed all the ghosts. Furthermore, since its murderous desire was aroused, it wasnt satisfied with so little. I guess it has gone out to find more


    The rich woman was scared. Young master, this cannon is around eight hundred kilograms. How could it run away? Plus, the garage was locked the entire time.


    This event involved the supernatural, so I asked her, Were there any words carved on the cannon?


    The rich woman recalled then said, Yeah Something like General Yaowu.


    I see. This Red Barbarian Cannon was imported from Portugal. During the Ming dynasty, these cannons were formidable weapons because they could kill hundreds or even thousands of enemy soldiers. Thats why the generals and soldiers in the Ming dynasty worshipped the cannons as deities! When something is worshipped like a deity for a long time, it will slowly develop intellect. After a long time, it is no longer just a cannon, but an item with a spirit. You can imagine it as a half-monster.


    The rich woman was astonished and confirmed it with Li Mazi. Grandmaster, is your apprentice telling the truth?


    Yeah. I reached the same conclusion. Li Mazi nodded.


    Suddenly, we heard a shriek from the hospital. Li Mazi and I exchanged looks and prepared to go there and check. However, the rich woman wanted toe with us.


    If she came with us, dozens of guards would also follow us. Thisrge group made us anxious as we had to keep up our act.


    I mumbled to Li Mazi and asked him to find a way to get rid of her.


    Li Mazi suddenly screamed, Not good!


    Whats wrong? asked the rich woman.


    Theres something wrong with your husband. You should go back and watch him.


    The rich woman hurried to return to her husbands room.


    Before she left, she asked if we wanted to keep several bodyguards to help us.


    Li Mazi skillfully rejected.


    After the rich woman left, Li Mazis vulgar smile reappeared. He patted my shoulder. Little Brother Zhang, shouldnt you be thanking me? Without my silver tongue, how could we secure this ten-million-renminbi-deal?


    Your silver tongue? During the time you were bragging to that woman, I was sweating in fright. I was scared that you would mess up and get discovered. I didnt know if I should cry orugh.


    How could that happen? I, Li Mazi, have been in this business for years. Ive seen a lot of people. I have keen eyes that can see when theres food on the te, my friend!


    When we arrived at the scene, we saw many people gathered outside a room on the third floor. I squeezed into the crowd and took a nce. Immediately, a chill ran down my spine.


    The room was a mess. A man was lying in a blood puddle, and both of his arms and legs were chopped off. His head was gone, too.


    There was a long streak of blood on the ground. It was certain that the victim had crawled for a while after he was attacked. What a tragic death!


    I asked a patient next to me, What happened?


    That mans mother was treated in this hospital. Her treatment failed, and she died. To pay for her treatment, he had used up all of his savings and even sold his house. But the hospital didnt agree to take any responsibility. Every day, he and his friends came to the hospital to protest while carrying bloody banners. Every time, they stopped the doctor that had operated on his mother and asked him forpensation.


    The man continued, Today, when he heard that the doctor was in the examining room helping his patients, he came in. The two talked for a while, and perhaps because he was too stirred up, the man pped the doctor. The doctor was enraged and left to get a security guard, while the man just sat there and waited for the doctor to return. But when the doctor left the room, we heard someone screech. The nurse went in to check and saw the corpse. Hospitals are too bold these days, dont you think? They cant cure people and even killed the patients family that came to ask for justice. Is this hospital or a ughterhouse? The patient sneered after exining the situation to me.


    A nurse standing near us couldnt bear it. She intervened, You know nothing! Stop talking nonsense if you dont know the whole story. That man wasnt the family member of a patient. He was a medical scammer!

 Chapter 367: The Golden-Armored Warrior

    Chapter 367: The Golden-Armored Warrior


    Since I rarely came to the hospital, I didnt know what she meant by medical scammer. I asked the nurse for an exnation.


    Oh, these medical scammers are hired by the patients families to cause trouble at the hospital. That man was the leader of the team. He came to trouble us almost every week. One time, they went as far as bringing a dead body to the hospitals entrance, pretending to be the filial sons and grandsons of the deceased. They cried and mourned the whole day. Since hospitals care about their reputation and dont want a negative image, they often decide to pay them. That makes those people more and morewless. They even came by and assaulted the surgeons of our hospital.


    The patient that had talked to us chimed in, They are wrong foring and causing trouble, but your hospital still caused the patients deaths. Of course, you have to bear responsibility.


    The nurse was baffled. Then ording to you, as long as people are sent to our hospital, we must guarantee that they will live? If so, the world would be full of immortals!


    A good person died on the surgical table, yet you avoided your responsibility by saying that it was an ident. How could their family keep their mouths shut after facing such a loss?


    The nurse angrily snapped back, Its normal for unexpected idents to happen during operations. If it is the hospitals responsibility, it can be solved by legal means. Do you think that causing mayhem is any different from bullying and ckmailing us? Curing people is our duty, but if we have topensate all the deceased, we should just close the hospital and let everyone be sick!


    More patients and doctors joined the argument. Both parties had their hardships. The crime scene had now be the center of a debate.


    I forced a smile then pulled Yin Xinyue away, leaving the scene.


    The thick smell of blood had given me a headache. I went to the window to take in some fresh air.


    Brother Zhang, did the cannon kill that man? asked Yin Xinyue.


    Seems like it I answered.


    But why did it seem like someone chopped him up with a knife?


    Yin Xinyue had brought up my concern. I was afraid that the Red Barbarian Cannon now had a mind of its own. If my guess was correct, things were going to be very dangerous.


    I had a sudden idea. Right, we should check the surveince cameras!


    Will they allow us to use their security control room? said Yin Xinyue with a sad face.


    Li Mazi, call the rich woman. This hospital is her property now. Ask her to authorize us to investigate! I ordered Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi nodded and called the woman.


    As long as you can cure my husband, you can even dismantle this hospital, answered the woman.


    Soon after, the director came to give us three passes. With these passes, we could go anywhere in the hospital to investigate. This director was the president that had gone against the rich womanst night. In one night, he was demoted by three ranks. His face looked tired.


    We went to the control room, where we saw a security guard on duty. I asked him to show us the surveince videos on the third floor from half an hour ago.


    The security guy showed us the video. On the screen, we saw the leader of the troublemaker group enter the room. Five minutester, a doctor rushed out angrily while covering his face.


    I carefully watched the screen without blinking. Around half a minuteter, a jet of blood hit the ss window of the room.


    Then, the screen started to flicker as if something was interfering with the camera.


    A shadow shed, disappearing shortly after. Then, everything resumed back to normal.


    I asked the security guard to reverse the video and pause when the shadow appeared. However, everything had happened too quickly. He tried several times to catch it, but his efforts were in vain.


    We reyed it so many times that our faces were almost stuck to the screen. After watching it around ten times, we finally seeded in freezing the video at that gleam of time.


    Oh God! Here it is! Yin Xinyue screamed.


    A warrior wearing golden armor appeared. He didnt have a face, and it was hollow under his mask. He carried a blood-stained, massive broadsword and moved through the door as though he was incorporeal.


    What the heck is that? And, who are you guys? The security guard was shocked and checked the passes we were wearing.


    We are here to capture ghosts, I answered.


    At this time, the screen began to shake, and the fluorescent lights above our heads also began to sh.


    Hey, check all the monitors! Hurry! I urged the security guy.


    He turned to check all the surveince cameras in the hospital. It seemed that some kind of electromaic interference was disturbing the cameras on the first floor. We mostly saw noise on the screen.


    The flickering screen showed a thug-looking man barging into the hospital. Some nurses went to stop him, but he violently pushed them away.


    I guessed he was the teammate of the dead medical scammer. Since his buddy was killed, he wanted the hospital topensate for his death.


    Damn, he wants to kill again!


    I rushed out of the control room. Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue followed closely behind me.


    When we came to the lobby on the first floor, we saw a hectic scene. A group of medical scammers was screaming and fighting with the nurses and doctors. None of them had noticed the shing fluorescent lights above their heads. A strange wind twirled the papers and dust from the ground. Then, the visibility in the lobby sharply decreased.


    Run! Leave this ce! I screamed at the crowd.


    Who the heck are you? scolded a man wearing a big gold ne.


    If you want to live, leave! Do not stay here!


    I was so worried that I thought that I would go mad. However, none of them believe me. The man slowly rolled his sleeves and sneered at the doctors and nurses. You called for help? Even if you invited the Emperor himself, it would be no use. Look at the green dragon on daddys arm!


    However, right as he was about to roll up his sleeve, he noticed that his right wrist was missing.


    The man was baffled and turned his head aside to look. The area where his right shoulder was supposed to be was empty. His entire right arm had been chopped off with a neat cut. Id heard that if the sword was sharp enough and user skilled, the person losing the limb wouldnt feel the agony even after a few seconds.


    Aaahhh! A nurse gave a high-pitched scream then fainted.


    Then, the horde of people fled the scene. The lobby was cleared in an instant.


    The man roared, My arm! How did I lose my arm?! You rascal, did you do this to me?! He headed towards my direction and was ready to hit me when his eyes fixed on something behind me.


    Brother Zhang, watch your back! screamed Yin Xinyue.


    I turned around in fear and saw a faceless warrior in golden armor holding a big broadsword. He hovered in the air.


    When the warrior raised his broadsword, I inadvertently raised both hands to protect myself.


    However, the broadsword passed through my body and left me with a bitter cold feeling.


    The man behind me screamed. Then, no sound came out of his mouth. His eyes opened wide in shock, and a red line appeared in the middle of his body. The line got bigger and bigger, and his body was eventually divided into two halves. His organs and intestines spilled onto the floor.


    Oh my God... Brother Feng was killed!


    Holy moly! What was that?!


    The other thugs were so scared that their legs started shaking.


    The gold-armored warrior materialized andnded on the ground. His entire body sparkled, and he was one and a half times taller than an average-sized adult. The red tassel on his helmet almost touched the ceiling. He raised his sword and aimed it at another person.


    That man crouched on the ground, and a puddle of yellow pee had formed underneath him. He was so scared that he couldnt even move.


    I drew the Sirius Whip andshed it at the warrior in golden armor. My whip hit the broadsword and deflected it. The sword hit the marble floor and sent sparks flying.


    Li Mazi, hurry! Grab some talismans! Li Mazi When I turned around, Li Mazi had already run away. I was so enraged that I cursed him!


    Brother Zhang Are you going to save them? Yin Xinyue asked with a shivering voice.


    I have no choice. Even if they are scumbags, they are still fellow human beings.


    As long as they were human beings, I couldnt just stand there and watch. I had to uphold my morals.


    I coiled the Sirius Whip around the broadsword and tried to pull it back. I felt as if I was dragging a mountain as I couldnt move it no matter how hard I pulled. The warrior in golden armor slowly turned toward me, and fear assaulted my mind!

 Chapter 368: Hating Evil to the Bone

    Chapter 368: Hating Evil to the Bone


    The warrior in golden armor effortlessly hurled me away by shaking his hand. He looked at me for a while before turning around, heading toward the corridor. Only then I realized that my back was wet with sweat.


    While I was fighting the warrior, all of the troublemakers had fled. However, the golden-armored warrior didnt quit chasing after them. He ran down the corridor.


    I picked up the Sirius Whip and turned around to look for Li Mazi. I spotted him behind a table. He was clutching his head and shivered like a leaf in the wind.


    I angrily walked up to him and grabbed him. Li Mazi blurted, Little Brother Zhang, we should stay away from this case! We cant deal with that thing. Its just ten million renminbi, after all. We can work harder and get this much money after a few deals.


    Look at yourself! I scoffed.


    Li Mazi hugged the tables leg and didnt want to leave. This is too scary! His broadsword can cut people in half! No one can stop him. Im not going to do this anymore!


    Yin Xinyue intervened, Ive found his weakness. He only kills evil people. He wont kill nice people.


    I nodded. Just now, the warrior in golden armor had two chances to kill me, but he didnt. It seemed this otherworldly item had its principles.


    When Li Mazi heard that, he was no longer that frightened. However, he couldnt ease his worries. Sister-inw, do you think Im a nice person?


    Of course, youre a nice person!


    Li Mazi smiled. Little Brother Zhang, Ive made up my mind. Sometimes, you have to take risks when looking for wealth. We work in a dangerous line of business, so its pretty normal for us to put our lives on the line!


    I was speechless and could only shoot him a disdainful look.


    Since it was a very urgent situation, I didnt have enough time to get help elsewhere. I looked around and found a stainless cart that had scalpels, tweezers, and even hemostatic forceps. It seemed it had just been pushed out of the operation room.


    Scalpels were things that had direct contact with blood, and they could kill people indirectly at times. Perhaps I could use themter.


    I called Li Mazi to carry the tray before we moved to the second floor.


    The lights on the ceiling shed, and all the doors were closed. The doctors, nurses, and patients all hid inside, and no one dared to make a sound. It looked like the building had been evacuated.


    A dead body was in a kneeling position in front of a door. His blood dyed the entire door. From his position, he was stabbed to death from behind.


    It seemed like this scammer wanted to get inside to hide, but the people in the room didnt want to open the door for him. The golden-armored warrior killed him shortly after that.


    Since those medical scammers were bad people, no one dared to shelter them. They had to hide in other ces in the building.


    A moment ago, they acted like haughty thugs. Now, they were just a bunch of rats who wanted to flee. It was rather ironic.


    I thought to myself,Why don''t they get a decent job instead of profiting from harming people?


    I knocked on the door. The people inside yelled, Donte in! We dont want to die!


    Do you have some paper clips, a sheet of white paper, and a lighter? I asked.


    No!


    Really? Because Im going to knock this door down! I threatened.


    The people inside were scared and quickly said, Wait for a second!


    A momentter, the door opened a little bit, and the items I wanted were sent out in a box. The door was mmed shut immediately afterward.


    Brother Zhang, why do you need these? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I smiled. Do you remember the paper crane Chuyi made to trace ghosts?


    I do!


    Im going to show you something simr today! I said.


    Of course, I couldnt perform the exact skill as Chuyi. However, I could imitate it. I used the lighter to heat the deceaseds chin. I kept burning it until the lighter was too hot for me to hold. A drop of an oily substance had gathered at the corpses chin.


    It was difficult to extract the corpse oil from a freshly dead body. But one drop was enough.


    I asked Yin Xinyue to fold a boat using the sheet of paper. Then, I dropped the corpse oil onto the boat before putting it onto the puddle of blood on the ground. The boat slowly started moving!


    I seized the time and closed the corpses eyes, rubbing the paper clips on his eyelids for a while. I wanted to stain the paper clips with the oil from the corpses skin. Then, I chained the paper clips together and hooked them onto my belt.


    Brother Zhang, the boat isnt moving anymore, said Yin Xinyue.


    I lowered my head to check. The little boat carrying the corpse oil was slightly tilted as though it was showing us the direction. I told them, The cannon is over there! Lets go!


    We ran down the staircases and searched from the first floor to the fifth floor. When we reached the fifth floor, the smell of thick blood weed us.


    The scene before our eyes was horrible. Three bodiesid on the ground. One was cut off at the waist; his upper body was around ten meters away from his lower body. His organs and intestines were spilled onto the ground, which had formed arge puddle of blood.


    The other corpse had also been sliced in half. His limbs were chopped off, and a piece of his intestine hung from the fluorescent light on the ceiling. His blood and intestines dripped to the floor.


    These two corpses belonged to the group of scammers, but the third body was a doctors. From his position, I guessed he was running for his life when half of his head was sliced off. We could even see his brain.


    B-Brother He killed the doctor! Didnt you say that he only kills bad people? Li Mazi was so scared that his tongue went stiff.


    I found a swelling spot on the doctor''s chest. It was a thick stack of euros. They were all new notes. If we exchanged this stack, it would be around one hundred thousand renminbi. A doctor had such arge amount of money, and it was a foreign currency at that. At a nce, I knew he had just received a gift from someone.


    He was killed because he received money? Yin Xinyue was surprised.


    Although its not right to receive money like this, this ghost went too far. We need to find a way to stop him.


    Li Mazi received the stack of euros from me and was about to put it inside his shirt when I shot him a nce. Do you want to die?


    He then embarrassedly gave it back to me and made an excuse. I have never seen euros before.


    Anyway, its a generous gift, isnt it? Yin Xinyue said, My aunt had a uterus fibroid tumor removal surgery, and she gave the doctor a gift of one thousand renminbi. Its somewhat exaggerated to give a gift of one hundred thousand renminbi.


    I picked up the doctors name tag. He was a neurologist. I understood now. The rich woman gave him the moneyst night!


    There were at least five or six doctors that had joined her husbands operationst night. If she gave all of them money, they would be the next targets.


    Hating evil that much was no longer righteousness. It was madness!


    We suddenly heard someone call for help upstairs. We rushed over and saw the warrior in golden armor chase after a doctor. While the doctor was running for his life, he tried to knock on some doors, but no one wanted to open the door for him.


    Then, he saw us. He rushed to grab my arm. Grandmaster, please save me!


    I told Li Mazi to dart the scalpels and hemostatic forceps toward the warrior. Li Mazi followed my instructions. The golden-armored warrior shed then disappeared.


    So easy? Li Mazi was surprised.


    Its just a temporary solution. Now, go find more for me. We dont need the forceps or tweezers. Just take the scalpels. We can use themter, I said in a worried voice.


    Those surgical tools werent able to subdue the warrior in golden armor. They just disgusted him.


    It was like seeing dog poop on the sidewalk. You would just step aside. But if you were in a hurry, you wouldnt mind it even if you stepped on it.


    I nced at the doctors name tag; he was also a neurologist. What happened?


    We were in the meeting room when we heard someone scream outside. A doctor went out to check, but his head was chopped off. Everyone in the room was shocked. Then, a man wearing golden armor suddenly charged in. He chopped three people. I escaped, along with another person. But that guy was killed shortly after


    The ones who died had all joined the brain tumor removal operationst night, right? I asked.


    How did you know that? The doctor asked in puzzlement.


    I asked him to show me the gift he had received. The doctor was embarrassed and took out the stack of euros. Indeed, the rich woman had given him money.


    Do you want to live?


    The doctor nodded repeatedly.


    Give me the money! I held out my hand.


    What? The doctor was shocked. You want to rob me?


    Do you want to survive or not?!


    The doctor was extremely reluctant, but he gave me the money. I turned and stuffed all of the money into a nearby donation box for a charity project. The doctor looked at me in puzzlement.


    The golden-armored warrior could sense peoples evil thoughts. That was why I had to solve the money issue for the doctor. He should be safe now.


    At the same time, the paper clips I had kept at my belt shook as if they had sensed something. Hesing! Hurry, arrange the formation!

 Chapter 369: Chief Star Seven Fiend Formation

    Chapter 369: Chief Star Seven Fiend Formation


    Arrange? Arrange what? Li Mazi was puzzled.


    I quickly retreated to the corner of the corridor, which was rather spacious. I ced the scalpels on the ground and arranged them ording to the shape of the Big Dipper, adhering a Ksitigarbha Talisman to each of them. After everything was prepared, I took out the chain of paper clips, unchained them, and scattered them in every direction.


    Yin Xinyue screamed, Brother Zhang, here hees!


    The crackling noise of metal nging came from the staircases. The warrior in golden armor wasing from there. He dragged a bloodstained broadsword and looked at us eerily.


    Although we knew he wouldnt kill us, I still felt scared while facing this faceless monster.


    I asked Yin Xinyue to hold the Peach Soul Flower and told her to stand at the position of the North Star. I needed her to stand still and be the eye of the formation.


    I held the Sirius Whip and made the doctor stand between Li Mazi and me to protect him. Of course, it was also to make him our bait.


    We were ready to face the opponent!


    The golden-armored warrior started to dash toward us and held his broadsword high. The scalpels and paper clips on the ground started to shake. Then, all of a sudden, he banged into an invisible wall. He stepped back and shook his head twice as if he was trying to recover from a concussion.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. It seemed that theChief Star Seven Fiend Formation had worked!


    The warrior barged into the wall again. The Ksitigarbha Talismans were partly torn, but they were still able to hold against him.


    Yin Xinyue shrieked and showed me her hand. The purlicue of her hand that held the Peach Soul Flower was torn; she was bleeding.


    As the eye of the formation, she couldnt move. I had to hold in my emotions and said to her, Try to put up with it!


    Im okay. Yin Xinyue bit her lips.


    The golden-armored warrior was blown several meters away. His soles rubbed on the ground, which sent sparks in the air. He seemed to be in a bad temper. He let out a strange growl from his empty helmet.


    The doctor asked, Brother, I gave you the money. Why is he still targeting me?


    Have you ever done anything wrong? I asked.


    No, Im the sort of man that is content with my lot He contemted then said, Receiving money doesnt count since everybody does that. We also ept the gifts to relieve the anxiety the patients family feels.


    Oh, there is this meaning as well? I was astonished.


    Yin Xinyue pointed at the warrior and said, Brother Zhang, look at his body.


    The warrior in golden armor began to sh. It seemed he couldnt hold on for a long time. The Red Barbarian Cannon only killed evil people, which was its biggest weakness.


    Generally, otherworldly items relied on torturing and killing to gather energy. Killing more people would make them stronger. However, the Red Barbarian Cannon was a principled one and only killed evil people. That was why the golden-armored warrior, the cannons spirit, couldnt maintain its warrior shape for a long time.


    The warrior knelt and shed harder. I vaguely saw the picture of a cannon as well.


    It looked like the image of the golden-armored warrior was blending with the image of a big cannon.


    Eventually, he returned to his true form, which was a massive cannon that weighed about eight hundred kilograms. The ck muzzle of the cannon was aimed at us.


    Dont worry. Although its an otherworldly item, it has to follow physical principles. He cant conjure a round shot out of thin air As soon as I said that, I felt that something was wrong. Blood was gushing out of the cannon muzzle.


    I screamed hastily, Get down! Now!


    The instant we all got on the ground, a bloody round shot exploded and passed above our heads. The Chief Star Seven Fiend Formation was forcibly broken, the seven Ksitigarbha Talismans were torn, and the scalpels were sent flying, stabbing deeply into the ceiling and walls.


    This round shot was formidable!


    Li Mazi shrieked and clutched his head, his butt pointing to the ceiling. Little Brother Zhang, you just said that it didnt have a round shot!


    The round shot hit the wall behind us and left a big dent. Blood and brain bits stained the entire wall. In addition, pieces of skulls and hair were scattered everywhere.


    I was terrified. This round shot was the head of the leader of the medical scammers!


    What? His head was the round shot?! Li Mazi was also scared.


    Hes leaving, announced Yin Xinyue.


    The cannon disappeared at the staircase. We all heard it descend the staircase.


    I mused,This cannon can move alone. It definitely has a spirit!


    I returned to my senses and remembered that there were three bodies on the floor underneath us. He was going to reload and shoot at us again!


    The Chief Star Seven Fiend Formation was broken. I now only had the Peach Soul Flower and the Sirius Whip. Both of them wouldnt be able to deal with this spirit.


    I didnt have the confidence to face this monster, so I could only ask everyone to run away.


    Can we use the elevator? asked Li Mazi.


    I shook my head. No, what if that warrior cuts the cables? We would all be doomed.


    We rushed to the next floor and found an empty meeting room. I simply wrapped Yin Xinyues hand with a handkerchief and checked outside. It was around noon, and the sunlight was dazzling. If it was another otherworldly item, it would never dare to wreak havoc during the day like this.


    However, the Red Barbarian Cannon was different. It was a top Yang item. Since it was noon, the items strength was at its highest.


    The doctor was curious about our business, and he kept asking questions. I was annoyed as I was trying to find a solution. I asked him to move aside and keep silent.


    Li Mazi, can you call the rich woman and ask her to deliver something? We need the hairof a newborn baby, some shroud, some used towels from a married woman, locust tree roots, and ck crow blood. They are all the Yin items we want to use.


    Right as Li Mazi was about to call, Yin Xinyue screamed, No, dont go there!


    I lifted my head and saw the doctor crane his head out of the door. He seemed to not want his life anymore. I shouted at him to stop, but he justughed. Its okay. That thing seems to be gone


    Before he could finish talking, we heard a strange, gurgling noise from his throat. He lowered his head to see his stomach and saw that the tip of a broadsword had stabbed him.


    The golden-armored warrior kicked the door open and withdrew his sword. The door fell on the doctors body.


    The doctor screamed for help, but the warrior kept stomping and pressing on the door. Shortly after, the doctor stopped making sounds. After a curt puff, he became meat dough. Blood and brain bits sshed on the ground. An eyeball spun and rolled to my foot, hitting my shoe.


    The warrior in golden armor turned to me. I now had a very bad premonition. I hurried to call Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi to gather with me.


    The warrior swept the broadsword in a horizontal motion; the conference table and many chairs were swept away. We had to dodge them as the chairs flew over our heads and hit the wall.


    Then, the shining sword was aimed at us. I was scared and felt my back soaking with sweat Things didnt feel right.


    The evildoer had died already, so why did he want to kill us? Did he consider us the aplices of that evil person?

 Chapter 370: A Hundred Ghosts Fighting Against the Cannon

    Chapter 370: A Hundred Ghosts Fighting Against the Cannon


    The golden-armored warrior kicked the round conference table. The hefty wooden table rolled on the ground, directly aiming at me. I had to jump aside to dodge. The warrior appeared in front of me a secondter, wielding his broadsword. I closed my eyes at that moment, waiting for death.


    At the same instant, Yin Xinyue grabbed a flower pot from the balcony and hit the warrior with it, enraging him; he silently turned to see her. I seized the chance and stepped back.


    The warrior noticed my move. He pulled back the tightly held sword handle, using the pointy end of the handle to stab mehe was using the official sword of the Ming dynastys imperial bodyguards, which had a spear-like de at the end of the handle. In a horse battle, it could be used to stab the enemy with a pull of the users hand.


    I rolled to avoid this fatal thrust. The tile on the floor, right where I had just stood, was broken by that vicious attack. The warrior in golden armor was quite angry as he kicked me. I was flung by this blow, hitting the wall in the end. I felt a surge in my chest, strong enough to almost make me vomit blood.


    I checked Li Mazi. He was crouching in the corner, clutching his head like an ostrich and mumbling repeatedly, He cant see me. He cant see me!


    My disdain for him was unimaginable at the moment.


    Yin Xinyue grabbed another flower pot and threw it at the warrior. Thanks to this distraction, I used the Sirius Whip andshed at him. The whip coiled around the warriors neck. I pulled him back hard.


    At the same time, I called Li Mazi for help. He finally reacted and ran to join me. The two of us grabbed the whip and pulled it back. Still, we had not expected for the warrior in golden armor to be rtively light; it seemed his armor was intangible and had no weight. He lost his bnce when we joined hands to pull him,nding on his back with a loud thump.


    Run! I shouted at Yin Xinyue.


    I rushed to push the back door open and dashed out. The warrior slowly got up inside the conference room.


    Damn it, why did he suddenly turn to attack us? asked Li Mazi.


    I dont know. Perhaps someone is controlling him


    We heard something rolling and rubbing against the floor when we ran to the end of the corridor. I turned my head around to see and the Red Barbarian Cannon had turned back to its true form. Its wheels were rolling as it tried to chase after us. Blood was oozing from the cannon muzzle. It had a head loaded inside. It was really dangerous to stand in front of it, so we did our best to rush toward the staircase.


    Li Mazi wanted to run downstairs. However, I called him back. Our best bet was to run to the rooftop. Since this thing wasnt afraid of sunlight, it was of no use to guide it outside; it could even kill more innocent people. It would be for the best to lure it to the rooftop and find a chance to make it fall off from that height. The cannon was made of cast iron; I was sure it would be smashed if it fell from the sixteenth floor.


    I didnt care about this item, nor did I want it anymore. Now, I only wanted to deal with it!


    It was a hard job to climb all the way to the sixteenth floor, and we couldnt even find time to rest and catch our breath. However, when we were about to reach our destination, we found that the door to the rooftop was locked. It was quite a disappointment.


    H-Hesing! Li Mazi stammered.


    He was right. We all heard the noise as the cannon moved closer; we would be unable to dodge if the cannon blocked us there. I suggested staying on the sixteenth floor for a while.


    It was a floor used for meetings. As there were no meetings scheduled, they didnt even turn the lights on.


    As soon as we stepped into the corridor, the nging sound of the metal armor was heard from the stairs, inching its way closer and closer.


    Li Mazi sighed with emotion. I used to think that we would only collect small things like a bowl or a shoe in thismission. If I had known that I would have been chased and shed, I would have rather listened to your advice about joining the entertainment industry, sister-inw!


    You still have the face to talk! You ran even faster than a rabbit when you should have stood firm!


    I pulled Yin Xinyues hand. I was quite touched since she had just saved me. Inparison, after looking at that coward Li Mazi, I saw what human ugliness looked like!


    The noise came closer, and Li Mazi said nervously, The cannons going to arrive soon. Little Brother Zhang, do you have any ns?


    Yes, I do. When ites to this floor, we will run to the other end, I said. I wasnt afraid, but we didnt have anything that could deal with it at the moment. That was why I didnt n on going there to wrestle with it.


    Brother Zhang! Yin Xinyue pped me in the back. Something just flew in. I turned to check the window. A paper crane slowly flew in.


    I was thrilled beyond words as Chuyi was nearby. However, the paper crane was holding something in its beak. I saw the thing when it drew closer. It was a condom! It was full of some red liquid. The paper crane steadily flew through the window to reach us. I opened the condom and sniffed.


    Whats that? asked Yin Xinyue.


    Eel blood No, it smells heavier than eel blood. Its the blood of a ck-bellied snake. This is the best thing to summon ghosts.


    Li Mazi said, Why did Chuyi send this to us? Hes a Daoist priest, and hes still carrying condoms around. Hes not decent at all!


    He wants us to trigger the souls in this ce to deal with this cannon! I finally understood.


    As we didnt have time, we couldnt set up any formations. I used the ck-bellied snake blood to write four words on the floorAll ghostse here!


    My grandfather used to tell me thatnguage was a spell in itself. Rain fell from the sky when Cang Jie, the legendary scribe of the Yellow Emperor, created words. That night, ghosts cried nonstop. Since humans knew words, they also attained the power of many spells.


    As soon as I wrote the four words, a strange wind howled through the corridor. It was blowing so hard that we couldnt even open our eyes. The surroundings also dimmed out. Soon, the warrior in golden armor appeared with his massive broadsword, stopping when he arrived where I had written the words.


    A dozen pale and rotten arms jutted out of the ground, grabbing and twining around the warriors legs. A ghost slowly climbed upon him. It was a man wearing a bloodstained patient uniform.


    The golden-armored warrior raised his fist and pounded on the ghosts head. After a few strikes, the ghosts head was deformed, and ghost blood sshed on the wall. The resentful soul fell on the ground, turning into a wisp of dark smoke and dispersing.


    More souls climbed on the warriors body. The weight of so many ghosts made the golden-armored warrior go down on one knee. He threw the broadsword aside and used his hands to grab two souls, smashing their heads together. The two souls vanished after several bangs.


    However, two hands werent enough to fend off the many hands going after him. Although the warrior was formidable, he couldnt withstand the attack of many souls, climbing, tearing, biting, and scratching him. After a while, he was covered by a horde of resentful souls. This scene was really scary.


    Yin Xinyuemented, I suddenly find him pitiful.


    I sneered and said, He can only me himself. He was chasing after us a moment ago.


    Still, why did the cannon want to kill us all of a sudden? Is someone controlling him? But its such an intimidating item, who would be able to do so?


    Suddenly, all of us heard some children crying in the corridor. Several infant ghosts crawled out of the floor; they jumped onto the warrior and started to nibble him. Those small ghosts had grown fangs that could tear and gnaw the armor on the warriors body.


    Those infant spectres were actually stillbirths. Their resentful energy was heavy since they couldnt reincarnate. I could tell that they were extremely dangerous. I also saw a mother. It was actually a mother and child pair still connected by the umbilical cord. They stormed toward the golden-armored warrior and started to peel off his armor as if it were fish scales.


    Those ghosts were too strong. As the hospital had good geomancy, they would normally remain sleeping; they would not scare or harm people on their own ord.


    Li Mazi, Yin Xinyue, stop watching. Lets take this chance to make a run for it! I said.


    We heard a loud explosion as soon as we moved. Scared, I quickly turned to check Yin Xinyue and then Li Mazi before looking at my own body. It was good that none of us were hurt.


    The Red Barbarian Cannon was quite troubled by the souls. It decided to return to its original form and shoot its single round. The recoil force had sent the cannon several meters backward, leaving two streaks of bloody wheel marks in the corridor. The resentful souls were also hit hard. The entire corridor was filled with ghost blood and wisps of smoke.


    Then, I heard a thumping noise. It seemed the cannon had escaped through the stairs.


    When I finally heaved a sigh of relief, the elevator dinged and opened. A group of policemen rushed in, pointing their pistols at us. Dont move! Put your hands up!

 Chapter 371: The Odd Story of the Golden-Armored Warrior

    Chapter 371: The Odd Story of the Golden-Armored Warrior


    As six or seven people were found dead in the hospital and we were roaming around the murder scenes, of course, the police wanted to take us to the bureau to be interrogated.


    We were taken to the police bureau, but we didnt even have time to warm our seats when the rich womanswyer bailed us out.


    Fortunately, the hospitals surveince cameras had recorded everything. It was made evident that the deaths of those victims werent rted to us. And, we didnt make the effort to exin where the golden-armored warrior hade from.


    Once we left the police bureau, thewyer passed us the rich womans message. She said that her tycoon husbands brother had found a grandmaster from Hong Kong to deal with us. She asked us to be more vignt as we worked.


    We saw her off, but weughed when we turned around. A grandmaster from Hong Kong? It was understandable that Shen Hongbin would find someone to help. I guessed that this grandmaster from Hong Kong was none other than Chuyi. That was why we had almost met him back in the hospital.


    However, for obvious reasons, it wouldnt be convenient for him to show up. And we didnt n to tell the rich woman this little detail


    We took a taxi and returned to my antique shop. I changed my clothes while Yin Xinyue ordered takeaway food as it was around lunch time. Our lunch was rather simple.


    Li Mazi took a nap on the sofa after eating. Yin Xinyue wanted to go to the nearby Starbucks, but I excused myself, saying that I had something to do and that she should go alone this time.


    I continued reading the journal my grandpa had left me. Shortly after, I found something about that General Yaowu. Back then, Yuan Chonghuan purchased eight generals to guard Liaodong. They were the eight Red Barbarian Cannons.


    Amongst those eight cannons, one was the most special since Yuan Chonghuan had used his blood as sacrifice to worship it.


    There was a time Yuan Chonghuan had been besieged by the Qing army for three months. His city couldnt contact the other cities, and their ammunition was dwindling.


    Yuan Chonghuan was so worried that his hair had turned white.


    One day, Yuan Chonghuan was very tired after returning from the front line. He dozed off on his table and had a strange dream. In his dream, he saw a golden-armored warrior kneeling in front of him, speaking confidently, Im willing to lead a troop of elite soldiers to break this siege and kill Nurhaci! [1]


    Yuan Chonghuan agreed to his proposal, but he wondered how many soldiers he would need since there werent many soldiers that he could mobilize in this city.


    The warrior in golden armor answered indifferently, Eight are enough.


    Then, Yuan Chonghuan woke up. He couldnt help but sigh as it was just a dream.


    Suddenly, there was mayhem outside. A soldier came and reported that there were eight warriors in golden armor attacking the Qing armys camp. Yuan Chonghuan went to the city wall to watch. The eight warriors were riding horse skeletons, carving a bloody path amidst the enemys formation. The leading general held a big, imposing banner which read General Yaowu. Yuan Chonghuan finally understood. The eight Red Barbarian Cannons on the city wall were gone!


    At night time, the Manchurian Emperor Nurhaci was killed by a cannon round that came out of nowhere. Since their emperor had been killed, the Qing army was in disarray; they soon decided to retreat. Yuan Chonghuan opened his ammunition storage and found the eight cannons that had just disappeared, with some extra dents on their surface.


    From that day on, he held the eight cannons in high esteem. He even asked his generals to offer incense and fruits and worship the cannons every day.


    However, in the end, Yuan Chonghuan was plotted against and sliced into pieces. There was nothing left of his remains. Only one of those cannons had his blood.


    On the day the Qing army got through the countrys pass, Yuan Chonghuans soldiers and generals buried the cannon named General Yaowu together with Yuan Chonghuans clothes, considering it his cenotaph.


    Li Mazis phone rang right after I finished reading the story. He was startled by the sound, jumping up from the sofa with a quick motion. After the call, he said, It was the rich woman.


    Why did she call you? I asked.


    She said Sheng Hongbin had fetched her husband from the hospital. We must go there. She will send a car to pick us up soon, answered Li Mazi.


    Tell her toe in half an hour. I need to prepare something first! I frowned.


    I gave Li Mazi a list of stuff I needed. Can you find these things for me?


    The list included macaque blood, an iron chain, a seven-month stillbirth, iron grains, swine blood, and TNT explosives.


    Li Mazi frowned and said, Little Brother Zhang, half of the things on your list are illegal. Where am I supposed to get them?


    Oh, you know the rich woman, dont you? I chuckled.


    Yeah, I forgot about her Li Mazi ruffled his hair. If it werent her, I wouldnt ask about finding those things.


    The Red Barbarian was certainly damaged after so many ghosts had attacked it at the hospital. It would possibly take one or two days for the cannon to recover before it could reappear one more time. I nned to finish it at that time.


    I phoned Yin Xinyue and asked her to return. After a while, the rich womans cars came. She waved at us from one of the ck Roll Royce cars.


    The rich woman asked Li Mazi to sit next to her. Neither Yin Xinyue nor I had such treatment. She talked to Li Mazi while dabbing her tears with a handkerchief. It turned out that around noon time, Shen Hongbin had taken the grandmaster from Hong Kong to the hospital. That grandmaster had performed some evil tricks, and all the bodyguards were rendered unconscious. They had abducted her husband after that.


    I believed that Chuyi would not assist bad people. Since he had done that, I supposed he wanted to gain Shen Hongbins trust!


    The cars didnt go to the hospital but a residential area in the city. It was the ce where Shen Hongbin would most likely be. The rich woman was sure that Shen Hongbin would kidnap her husband and take him there.


    Sure enough, we saw Shen Hongbins sports car parked in front of the vi.


    The rich woman went and knocked on the door. She charged into the house with her bodyguards as soon as the maid opened the door. Shen Hongbin, get your butt down here!


    Soon enough, Shen Hongbin appeared at the staircase. He shot us a nce, sneering at the woman. Sister-inw, which game are you ying? Youve even joined hands with some outsiders to deal with me. Dont you think youre crossing the line?


    You bastard, dont think I dont know what youre plotting. You want to trick my husband into transferring his shares to you while his mind is not stable! the woman boomed.


    Oh, yourete. My brother has already signed the contract Shen Hongbin smiled contentedly.


    The rich woman was dumbstruck, just as if she was hit by lightning. She rushed to the second floor, and we followed after her.


    Wearing pajamas, the tycoon was sitting on the couch, watching TV in avishly-decorated bedroom. The TV was ying the drama Yuan Chonghuan. He seemed to be infatuated with the drama as he didnt notice the people storming into his room.


    That was actually a great trick I should keep in mind. I could use itter on if I encountered some famous historical figures!


    Honey! How could you do that to me?! Youre willing to leave behind orphans and a single mother? Youre heartless how could you watch us living on the street? The rich woman sobbed, crying her heart out.


    The tycoon looked at her with disgust. Someone,e and take this crazy woman away! As he was Yuan Chonghuan at the moment, of course he wouldnt recognize his family.


    Shen Hongbin made a gesture. The security guards standing at the door came in and were about to make the rich woman leave. However, the bodyguards the rich woman had brought along werent pushovers. The two groups pulled back and forth at the door.


    In the end, the tycoon smashed a vase and asked everybody to get out. The rich woman wasnt pleased; she said some harsh words before leaving.


    After she got into the car, she called some people in thepany. After the calls, her face had a turn for the better as she said to us, That rascal fooled me. Thepanys equity hasnt been transferred yet. We still have a chance!


    Li Mazi asked in puzzlement, Mrs. Shen, didnt you say that we just needed to help your husband wake up?


    Ill pay you more... Grandmaster, you must help me this time. Otherwise, Ill be a widow and my kids would lose their father. We wont have a roof above our heads. The woman sounded pitiful.


    How old are your children? I asked.


    The oldest is twelve; hes in high school. The youngest is only nine, and hes still in elementary school. They are too young. So far weve brought them up nicely, but if I dont fight to save their wealth, how could they surviveter on? Dont you think so?


    Li Mazi nodded. Right, right, being a parent isnt easy.


    I felt puzzled. Why would she keep spouting things about bing a widow and the orphans? She sounded as if the tycoon had already died.


    Then, I realized something!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nurhaci

 Chapter 372: The Rich Womans True Colors

    Chapter 372: The Rich Woman''s True Colors


    The cars drove around the neighborhood before parking behind a cluster of Japanese banana nts.


    The woman talked to her secretary. Later on, her secretary brought along an old man wearing a suit and leather shoes.


    Mrs. Shen, Im the manager of these properties. I heard that you were interested in renting one of them. Is it for a long or a short term? The old man beamed at her.


    The rich woman pulled Li Mazis arm and talked politely. Grandmaster, Im going to rent a vi for you.


    How could this be! Please, there is no need! Li Mazi rejected repeatedly. However, his smile went from ear to ear; it was impossible for him to close his mouth.


    Please, you have to stay here and watch that rascal for me. Isnt it morefortable and convenient to stay in this area? The woman then posed another question, Grandmaster, do you have any requests rted to the geomancy?


    Li Mazi thought for a moment and replied, It should be a big vi with a broad view. Also, I need a swimming pool.


    I sniggered in my heart. Li Mazi was really demanding.


    The old man took us to see several vis. In the end, Li Mazi picked the one that was facing Shen Hongbins ce; the rent for this one in particr went for five thousand renminbi a day. The rich woman said that she would rent it for one month, and if we liked it, she would give us one after the task waspleted.


    Li Mazi smiled like a blooming flower as he went on vigorously, How could it be!


    Then, he suddenly remembered the list I had asked him to get. He showed her the list and asked her to find the items.


    The rich woman nodded. I have some things to do, so I have to go now. However, someone will deliver these items to you soon.


    Li Mazi sank into the sofa after the rich woman had left. Ahhh, I had never stayed in a vi like this before. I think Ill bring Ru Xue and Li Meng here. We should enjoy this together


    You think were here to enjoy ourselves? Anyway, I have something I need to tell you. My voice turned serious as I sat down.


    What is it? asked Li Mazi.


    I think we made a mistake in the beginning. The real viin isnt Sheng Hongbin. Its the rich woman! I told him.


    What? Li Mazi said, It doesnt sound right. Why would she want to harm her husband?


    To get the money, I snarled.


    The doctors in the Neurology Department had received some gifts, which eventually got them killed by the golden-armored warrior. I always felt it was odd.


    It wasnt a thank-you gift. It was money to keep their mouth shut. I was almost certain that the rich woman had asked them to do something during the surgery to leave the tycoon in a vegetative stage. Once the deed was done, she opted to kill them to silence them forever.


    She knew how to control the Red Barbarian Cannon.


    And another thing, the moment I figured out that the doctors had received her money and I decided to help the tycoon, the golden-armored warrior changed his attitude and chased after me. This could also prove my assumption, but the clues I had at the moment were very few.


    Li Mazi said, If thats how it is, why would she want us to help? Does she want to put up a pretense for others to see that she loves her husband?


    Did she really invite us? It is you who stuck to her like glue at the beginning. Of course, I cant me you for this as Im also at fault. At this point, we can only persevere and see it to the end.


    So, Shen Hongbin is the good guy? Yin Xinyue didnt know whether she should cry orugh.


    It is possible that both of them are viins. The only thing we can confirm right now is that the woman is more cunning and wicked than we thought. We should be alert, I said.


    I was still restless by noon, and I often went to the window to check if I could see Chuyi in the other vi. On the other hand, Li Mazi was much more rxed. He filled the swimming pool and swam back and forth.


    Hey, look at my breaststroketechnique. Do I look cooler than Sun Yang? [1]


    Yeah, yeah, sure!


    Yin Xinyue turned on herptop to watch Korean dramas. Then, a man delivered a big cardboard box around twilight. I took the box to the living room and opened it.


    There were tworge oil bottles containing macaque blood and swine blood. I opened the bottles and sniffed them. Then, I called Li Mazi and asked him to take a whiff. He frowned and said, Is it me or this blood smells strange?


    Shemixed urine in this blood. We cant use this.


    The iron grains I had asked for were also mixed with stone grains. The dead fetus wasnt seven months old. It even had several needles pinned into its flesh at some unremarkable ces. The TNT explosives were just some props; they werepletely fake. If I used those items to deal with the cannon, I could only imagine how I would end up.


    It seems I wasnt wrong. Thisdy doesnt want us to deal with the cannon. She wants to make clowns out of us, wishing that the cannon would kill us.


    Damn, what an evil woman! Li Mazi shouted.


    I asked Li Mazi to go and get the items on the list. He sounded distressed. Most of the stuff is easy, but buying TNT is illegal. You dont want me to get arrested, do you?


    I could only take a step back. Go to a ce where they sell chemicals and get some sulfuric acid.


    Yin Xinyue ordered pizza for dinner as Li Mazi left. We checked the entire vi after we had our meal. Yin Xinyue liked this house; she wished to buy one to move inter. I guessed this sort of vi would cost more than ten million renminbi. Even though we had earned a decent sum this year, we had also spent a lot. Even if we could buy the vi, we couldnt afford the maintenance fee. And, I always had to work outside; I wouldn''t spend much time in it if we did get one.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. Im going to buy a vi when we have a child.


    How much do you have in savings? I rubbed her nose.


    Yin Xinyue said mischievously, Not gonna tell you.


    The golden light before twilight shone on the oak floor, and the curtains billowed with the night wind. This atmosphere was quite nice. We couldnt help but cuddle and make out for a while. Just as passion started to overflow, I suddenly noticed that someone was watching us.


    Shen Hongbin was standing on his balcony opposite us, holding a ss of champagne. He shot us an ambiguous smile and waved at us when he saw me looking back at him. I scoffed, Pervert, then closed the curtains.


    We lost our mood after that disturbance. Then, Yin Xinyue suddenly screamed, Brother Zhang, theres something behind you!


    I turned around and checked. Chuyis little Daoist boy with his braided ponytail was standing there, watching us silently. He sighed and ced a finger on his lips before I could open my mouth. Then, he turned as if to leave. We followed him downstairs to the living room. The Daoist boy squatted in front of the cardboard box and pointed at something inside.


    I opened the box and checked the contents. I eventually found a bug attached to the bubble wrapping. Yin Xinyue and I exchanged looks. I smashed the eavesdropping device full of anger. Damn, they listened to our conversation. I think Li Mazi may be in danger!


    I tried calling Li Mazi, but he didnt answer. A few minutester, the rich woman used his number to call me back. Her voice was ice cold. Haha, kiddo, youre quite the cautious one. Thats right. I have your friend.


    What do you want? I questioned.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_Yang

 Chapter 373: Refined Device

    Chapter 373: Refined Device


    The rich woman sniggered. You surprised me. I thought you guys were just a bunch of hoaxers, but you do have some skills. Im always fond of talent... How about we join hands?


    I sneered. Is this your way to make an invitation?


    Well, your friend is with me, so you dont get to choose! You must help me, either by snatching thepanys equity transfer contract or getting my husband back. Otherwise, juste and pick your friends dead body.


    I want to hear his voice.


    Hold on.


    Then, I was able to hear Li Mazi crying for help on the other end. However, he was muted after crying for a short moment.


    The rich woman said, Dont worry! I will give him good food and ask my people to serve him well. You should also rest well in the vi tonight. A grandmaster will be visiting you tomorrow, to offer help.


    Why are you doing this? I didnt really understand.


    You tell me, what can a woman do when shes being forced like this? Im doing this for my children. I wont receive a dime if I do nothing! The rich woman talked through her gritted teeth.


    I found another meaning behind her words, but she didnt give me a chance to ask further; she directly hung up the call.


    I straight up cursed eighteen generations of her family. The Daoist boy said, Brother Chuyi also asked me to tell you that you are being watched. You must be careful. I wille to see you at around ten oclock.


    He gave me a charm that was folded into a triangle and asked me to keep it with me at all times.


    After that, the Daoist boy walked toward the door and disappeared into thin air.


    That woman is really disgusting. Resorting to such despicable means. Yin Xinyue sounded angry.


    Dont let Ru Xue and Li Meng find out about this. We should think of a way to save Li Mazi. I sighed.


    I understand. Do you have any ideas? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I shook my head, then I stood up and checked outside. I saw many men wearing ck suits walking back and forth; they were the womans guards we had seen before.


    As we had nothing to do, we sat on the sofa and watched TV, but we still couldnt calm down. At around eight oclock, the lights in the vi suddenly started shing. We heard people screaming until their voices grew hoarse outside. There''s a ghost! Help me!


    What happened? Yin Xinyue was worried.


    Its okay. I guess Chuyi did that, I answered.


    The Daoist boy entered the living room through the wall and said with his childish voice, Brother Chuyi is using his magic power over there. He said that you should y along.


    Oh, so its a show for Shen Hongbin and the rich woman...


    I didnt have anything good enough to use, so I had to improvise. I dipped a handkerchief in the useless swine blood the rich woman had sent me and used it to write a big formation on the ground. Then, we heard people banging on the door; I asked Yin Xinyue to open it. The Daoist boy disappeared right when the door was opened.


    The bodyguards stormed into the room with pale faces. They begged, Grandmaster, please save us! Although they were well-trained, they were just ordinary people. Seeing supernatural stuff was too much for them.


    Calm down and sit cross-legged close to the edge of the formation. Then, I told them to start mumbling some spells. Of course, I was just trying to fool them. After pretending for a while, the Daoist boys voice echoed in my ears. Nows the time. You should find an excuse to go out, then head East


    The lights stopped shing after that. I walked to the window and looked outside as I said to the bodyguards, Its all right now. Ive sent those wandering ghosts away.


    They were all quite grateful. I told them to stay put before they could get up. Do you know about the person who sent the ghosts here?


    They shook their heads.


    I tried to scare them. Hes not any ordinary man. My strength is just enough to resist for a while. What you witnessed earlier was just a warm wee. Hell send more powerful ghostster. Youre likely to die if you dont listen to me.


    The bodyguards were too scared; they quickly nodded in agreement. No matter what you want us to do, we will try our best.


    I have to go out to prepare some materials. Or else, well all be doomed. Then, I headed to the door.


    A trembling bodyguard stopped me. No, Mrs. Shen said that you cant step outside this vi.


    Do you want to die that much?


    They hesitated, opting to call the rich woman to let her know. I heard her voice bellowing through the phone, Bunch of scumbags! Give him the phone!


    The woman sounded furious when I took the call. Im warning you, dont try any tricks. Your friend is still in my hands.


    What tricks could I possibly y? That grandmaster from Hong Kong wants to kill us, and I have to be ready. We had a recent encounter, and I could tell that his strength is incredible. Im not trying to scare you, but if I die, youll be his next target.


    I dare him! I could hear the woman grinding her teeth. Eventually, she said, What do you want to do now?


    Im going to my shop to pick up some tools. I promise Ille back immediately.


    Okay, but the girl has to stay! The womanpromised.


    I gave the phone back to the bodyguard, then I asked Yin Xinyue to take care before I went out alone.


    I headed East after leaving the vi. My jacket suddenly swelled when I reached a three-way junction. The head of the Daoist boy protruded from my chest and pointed with his finger. Go this way.


    How are you able toe out of me like this? I was a little startled.


    Ive always been with you!


    I understood it was thanks to the charm Chuyi had given me. This little Daoist boy was a ghost he kept. In normal conditions, the ghost could only be around Chuyi; he would need some tool to take shelter if he needed to move further away. That triangr charm was an example.


    It was incredible that the boy was with me all this time, but I didnt even feel a bit of his weight. I thought I should also keep a little ghost like this. It would be very useful to show the way, to send messages, and he could entertain me if I got bored.


    I soon arrived at a park; no shadows were being projected at thiste hour. The Daoist boy kept showing me the way until I reached an artificialke. Chuyi was standing there, facing theke as if he was enjoying the rippling water under the moonlight. I greeted him, and he replied with a nod. The Daoist boy in my chest disappeared.


    Why are you here? And, why are you working for Shen Hongbin? I asked.


    Its a long story.


    He picked up a stone and threw it into theke, creating some ripples. Then, he told me the story from the beginning.


    There had been a recent series of mysterious murder cases in Hong Kong. Chuyi had a feeling that there was some otherworldly item behind this. He started to investigate and eventually found an antique merchant. However, he was a stepte since thetter had already sold the otherworldly item to an oil tycoons wife in the Maind. It was the rich woman.


    The Red Barbarian Cannon wasnt an intimidating otherworldly item in the beginning. However, someone had turned it into a refined device. The victims in Hong Kong were the offerings made to create it. That was why Chuyi couldnt leave this otherworldly item unchecked.


    He followed the traces to this ce and ended epting Shen Hongbins deal to facilitate this operation.


    I had read about refined devices in my grandpas journal. To produce such a device, one had to use an evil technique to create a master-ve bond between the user and the otherworldly item. However, this technique had been long lost.


    Otherworldly items would normally have their limitations when harming people. For example, some items hated ungrateful men, while others just wanted to scare people at midnight for fun. But when people controlled them, they would be killing machines like that Red Barbarian Cannon.


    I was quite surprised to learn that some people nowadays still knew how to create a refined device.

 Chapter 374: Putting On a Good Show

    Chapter 374: Putting On a Good Show


    Chuyi said, That woman is aiming for thepanys equity. She asked the doctors to do something during the operation. I guess she wanted her husband to end up in a vegetative state. She had also prepared a departed soul that she could control and made it possess her husband. However, it was unexpected that Yuan Chonghuan was the one who possessed her husband in the end. Shes no expert in this field, so there was someone backing her, guiding her through all of these steps. ording to the clues Ive found, that person may be rted to the Longquan Vi


    I frowned.Its the Longquan Vi again.


    I then asked, Do you have any ns?


    Chuyi silently threw another stone into theke. I guessed he was still pondering.


    After throwing the fifth stone, he said, No.


    Why didnt you speak this whole time? I almost vomited blood.


    I was waiting for you to speak first.


    This time, I really wanted to vomit blood. Li Mazi was being held hostage, and the rich woman was watching us at all times; we were at the receiving end so far.


    I suddenly remembered one of the thirty-six stratagems, which was called the guest acts as the host.


    Perhaps we could take the initiative... It might be risky, but it could work!


    Did Shen Hongbin make a move? I asked.


    Hes nning to schedule a board meeting for tomorrow. He wants to make the tycoon sign the equity transfer contract in front of them.


    "What time?


    Around noon.


    A n popped up in my head. We have to kidnap the tycoon somehow! They wont be able to do a thing as long as we can control the key person!


    Not a bad idea. But how are you going to do that? Chuyi asked as he looked at me.


    Its not easy to carry out the n with only the three of us. I need you to cooperate with me so that we can stage a good show for them to watch.


    I told Chuyi about my n, and he agreed to it. I then bid him farewell and went to the antique shop to prepare some tools. Whether this n would work or not, another fierce battle against the Red Barbarian Cannon was inevitable. I had to prepare well!


    Of course, it was impossible to get everything ready within two hours. There were some items I couldnt find, and I had to rece them with something that produced simr effects.


    It was almost dawn when I returned to the vi. The bodyguards were so anxious that they were pacing back and forth like ants on a hot pan. They were afraid that something would happen if they werent vignt, so they were ecstatic to see me return.


    Dont panic. Open all the windows and move the furniture in the living room outside, I asked them.


    While the bodyguards were busy moving the furniture, I discreetly shoved a piece of paper into Yin Xinyues hand. She opened it and gave it a quick look before giving me a nod.


    Soon, the entire living room had been emptied. I used the swine blood the rich woman had given me to draw a new formation on the floor. I also sprinkled salt and threw iron nails around. The bodyguards were amazed, just as if they were watching a profound and unpredictable magic show.


    I pretended to be mysterious after everything was set up. There will soon be a magic duel between me and the grandmaster from Hong Kong! People who were born in the year of the rooster, the snake, and the monkey should go away. Otherwise, I wont take any responsibility if something bad happens to you.


    Several people left the room. Yin Xinyue looked at me then asked, Brother Zhang, I was born in the year of the snake. Should I also leave?


    You should. This magic duel is not a joke. You should hide in the kitchen. Do not peep, I advised.


    Okay, I got it. Yin Xinyue pouted her lips, looking displeased as she walked to the kitchen.


    I asked the remaining bodyguards to sit cross-legged around the formation. No matter what happened, they had to stay put unless I said otherwise!


    Then, I sat cross-legged in the middle of the formation. I noticed that one of the bodyguards had a phone partially hidden under the hem of his jacket. I knew the rich woman didnt trust anyone; she had asked her guard to livestream this magic show so that she could watch. It was quite normal, anyway.


    This was good news to me. It would produce a better effect if she watched the fight with her own eyes rather than only listening to her bodyguards report.


    I closed my eyes and began to chant a spell. After a while, the nearby window panels began to rattle loudly and the lights above our heads to sh. A strange wind twirled around the formation, bringing with it a whining and howling ghost.


    Look! One of the guards pointed at the wall. Then, a blood-dripping woman slowly protruded from the wall. Half of her body had been ttened with a long streak of tire print. Her gums were exposed, while blood and brain matter were spilling from a crack in her head.


    If I hadnt known it was Chuyi messing around... I would have been scared out of my wits.


    Dont panic! I shouted, and continued to chant the spell. More and more ghosts came out of the walls, trying to break the formation and attack the people present. However, they would be sent back whenever they came close. In fact, this formation was very weak. It was all a show.


    "Begone!


    I threw a handful of salt at the ghosts. They howled in agony and disappeared. The guards were quite grateful, and they seemed to respect me even more.


    Quickly, protect your soul and dont let those ghosts possess you! I advised.


    The bodyguards looked at me in a daze; they didnt know what to do. Actually, I didnt know how, either. I just wanted to mess with them for a while so that they wouldnt have a clear mind to keep an eye on us.


    After around twenty minutes, the gust of wind slowly subsided. I was sweating as I said to them, We defeated them. That Hongkonger definitely suffered some internal damage. He could even be spurting blood.


    Grandmaster, youre so fierce! the guards praised me.


    It was just a small feat.


    At this time, someone shrieked in the kitchen. We hurried to go and check. Yin Xinyue was on the floor, shivering. She even had foam at the corner of her mouth. The bodyguards who had been asked to leave were anxious and bewildered.


    I shouted at them, What did I tell you? Why didn''t you look after her?!


    It wasnt our fault. She said that the magic battle was over and wanted to see. I even told her not to, exined a guard.


    I looked at the sky, sighing. Not good. She was possessed by some resentful soul.


    Oh Grandmaster, can you do something? The bodyguards were terrified.


    I scooped Yin Xinyue up and took her to the bed. I then turned and shouted at the bodyguards following us, All of you, get out!


    Since they saw how angry I was, they quickly left the room with grim expressions.


    Yin Xinyue was still shivering after they had left. I pinched her cheek, and sheughed. Brother Zhang, did I act well?


    It was perfect. I almost thought it was real. But tell me, whats the deal with the froth in your mouth? I was curious.


    I put a piece of soap in my mouth. We sometimes do this when we shoot movie scenes. Yin Xinyue said happily.


    I brought her a ss of water to rinse her mouth and offered her a clean handkerchief.


    Honey, try and pretend to be unconscious. Tomorrow, we will act as nned.


    I drew several talismans and adhered them on the bed to cover up for any ws in our n. I even entangled a few red threads with bells around the room, to prevent people from entering. The n was for Yin Xinyue to leave this ce, get a car, and pick up the tycoon the next day.


    It was two oclock in the morning when I finished getting everything ready. I sank on the couch and went to sleep.


    Early in the morning, I was woken up by the noise outside. I walked to the window to check. Two groups of bodyguards were facing each other. Shen Hongbin was also there.


    It seemed Shen Hongbin wanted to see me, but the rich womans guards had stopped him outside. The two parties were about to engage in a fight.


    Shen Hongbin suddenly pped a guard. The guy was mad and raised his fist menacingly. Shen Hongbin wasnt scared at all as he studied him. You should consider your current situation. What if my sister-inw doesnt have money anymore... Whos going to give you money for your meals?


    As soon as he said that, the rich womans guards paled and made way.

 Chapter 375: The Grudges of the Rich

    Chapter 375: The Grudges of the Rich


    Shen Hongbin wasughing as he knocked on my door. I opened and saw him wearing a casual floral shirt, with a pair of sunsses hooked on his cor. He appeared as an amiable, romantic person. One of his hands was leaning on the door frame as he asked, Hey neighbor. Youve just moved in, right? Can Ie in so that we can talk?


    I wore a cold face as I invited him in. Shen Hongbin scanned the ce. Hey, dont you feel this living room is a bit too empty? You should get someone to fix it.


    I asked directly, Are you here to check if I was screwed by the Hong Kong expert working for you?


    What are you talking about? Im not a narrow-minded person like my sister-inw.


    He waved his hand to dismiss the bodyguards in the room, leaving just the two of us.


    Shen Hongbin patted my shoulder, asking politely, I definitely underestimated you. Are you interested in working for me?


    Im sorry. Not interested.


    Oh, I didnt think youd be one to uphold a code of ethics. How much does my sister pay you? I can pay you double.


    If you came here for that reason, please leave! Its not about the money. We have our own principles in this business. Once we ept a deal, we have to follow it through until the end I outright rejected his offer. Li Mazi was still in the hands of the rich woman; I would not dare betray her at this point.


    Shen Hongbin offered a round of apuse. Good, then. Ive booked an entire floor of the Hilton Hotel for lunch. Ive also invited the board of directors to the party, and my brother will also sign the equity transfer contract while were there. If youre interested, youre weed to join.


    I quieted down, wishing to know what he wanted.


    I know my sister-inw wont give up, but Im not afraid regardless of what she does. I still have an ace. Shen Hongbin sneered. He brought out an envelope from his chest pocket and threw it on the coffee table. I opened the envelope and read the contents. It was the result of a DNA paternity test. It said that the DNAs of the tycoon and his two children only had a 0.1% match. They obviously weren''t his children.


    No wonder the rich woman had resorted to such schemes to get the money. I finally knew the story behind this ridiculous case.


    Shen Hongbin sighed. I went to great lengths to get this result! My brother and my sister-inw dont have the rtionship they present to the world. They have cheated on one another more than once. That woman has a dark heart. My brother has be weaker and weaker, and Im pretty sure its rted to her. I dont know what would have happened to my brother if I hadnte back to China and stepped in.


    Do you want thepany for yourself? I shot Shen Hongbin a nce.


    Not only that. I will do everything in my power so that she doesnt receive anything. Not a single dime, Sheng Hongbin fumed.


    The more I listened to him, the more puzzled I became. I didnt know why he visited me early in the morning. Did he really want to recruit me? I felt that he needed me to do something.


    I then probed. Tell me, how should I help you?


    Haha, Shen Hongbinughed. Youre smart, arent you? I wont beat around the bush. I want you to help me make my brother sign the contract and his will.


    It turned out Shen Hongbin couldnt handle Yuan Chonghuan, the spirit possessing the tycoon. Although he was just a departed soul, he had been a moral, righteous Confucian when he was still alive. He wouldnt let people tell him what to do.


    Can you control him for a while and make him sign the contract?


    I pondered. What about the expert you brought from Hong Kong? Cant he do it?


    He said you''re the only one in this Circle who is able to. Im not in your line of business, so I wouldnt know. You guys also havebor divisions? Shen Hongbin was somewhat puzzled.


    I understood what was happening; Chuyi had urged him from the other side. This way, I would have a chance to get close to the tycoon and kidnap him.


    Then, I proceeded with the n. Actually, I know a secret technique.


    Shen Hongbin was so excited that his eyes were sparkling. After everything is done, I will pay you double  ah, no, triple!


    But how can you be sure that I will cooperate with you without reporting to your sister-inw? I sneered.


    He patted my shoulder. I believe you are a smart person; youll know which side to choose in the end. In any case, Ive already arranged to have the paternity document sent to all the directors mailboxes at the appointed time! The situation will favor me by then.


    Shen Hongbin had told me that the rich woman had a dark heart, but it seemed that his own was just as dark. He had been born in a powerful and wealthy family, so his ability to fool people was an inborn gift.


    Shen Hongbin said that he would send a car to pick me up around noon time, but I rejected the offer. It wouldnt do any good to rm the rich woman. I would get there by myself.


    Shen Hongbin gave me a business card. It was a ck card with his name; he was a Deputy General Director of somepany. Its design was luxurious,pletely different from the business cards from any ordinary shop.


    You should go to the hotel at noon. Just show this business card, and no one will stop you.


    A Phantom Roll Royce stopped at the vis gate as Shen Hongbin was about to leave. The rich woman got out of the car, wearingvish clothes; her fat secretary followed her like a shadow. She walked on a pair of high heels and talked with an odd tone. Shen Hongbin, who gave you the authority to schedule a board meeting? You held a rooster feather and thought it was amander token? Dont forget your standing! When you were expelled from your school abroad, you would have also been expelled from the Shen family if I hadnt begged your father on your behalf!


    Shen Hongbin didnt finish his degree abroad. His Oxford master''s degree must be fake...I guessed.


    Shen Hongbin sneered. Sister, you have a good source of information. It seems like you really care about my brothers life or death!


    The rich woman snatched the business card from my hand and looked at it. As for the Board Meeting at noon, remember to prepare my favorite wine. Perhaps you wont even have leftovers to eat if you dont treat me well, mind you.


    The rich woman wanted to attend the Board Meeting. I secretly admired these people for their speaking skills. No matter what, I could not imitate them.


    Shen Hongbin answered, Not only have I prepared your favorite wine, but Ive also prepared a wonderful stage for you!


    He patted my shoulder one more time and left the vi. The rich woman stared at me as if her eyes could spark fire. I guessed she had heard our conversation. She definitely had her ears and eyes all around me.


    I could only exin the situation to her. Im just improvising since things have changed. We should try to approach the tycoon and rescue him.


    Youd better not fool me. Otherwise, your friend and you... Both of you will be very miserable, I promise! Then, the rich woman threw the business card back at me.


    I wouldnt dare. Look at me now... One of my friends is being held captive, my girlfriend is unconscious, and Im being monitored all the time. Besides ying your cards, what else could I do? I sighed.


    The rich woman considered my words while sneering. Cooperate with me and I promise I wont mistreat you. If you need anything, just tell me.


    I need a few cars. All of them should be identical. Park them at the hotels underground parking lot. We will put your husband in one of those cars once I get ahold of him, making them leave at the same time. Shen Hongbin wont be able to tell which car were using!


    The rich woman nodded; she seemed to be satisfied with my n. Actually, it was a trick I had seen in a cops and robbers movie; I just wanted to borrow this maneuver to help us to distract the rich womans men.


    In fact, Yin Xinyue was no longer in the room. She had escaped through the window at around five oclock in the morning; she was discreetly carrying out my n.

 Chapter 376: Ghost Sealing Pouch

    Chapter 376: Ghost Sealing Pouch


    At ten oclock, Shen Hongbin sent a Mercedes-Benz to fetch me. The rich woman already knew about it, so I took the bag with the stuff I had prepared and got into the car.


    The car drove to the Hilton Hotel. Two bodyguards escorted me as we used the elevator to reach the conference room at the highest floor. The waiters and waitresses were walking back and forth, preparing food trays on several rows of long tables. It seemed like it would be a big feast.


    Actually, I had never attended an event like this before. I felt a little awkward, since I was wearing a few-hundred-renminbi jacket and a pair of jeans.


    Master Zhang, youre here! Shen Hongbin warmly weed me and ushered me to a room.


    I felt somewhat disoriented as soon as I entered the room.Did I just time-travel?


    The room was decorated as if it were a study room of an ancient schr. There was a long table made of pear wood in the room,plete with a set of paper, brushes, ink, and an ink b. There were also several thread-bound books on the shelves. An ancient-looking man sat at the table, reading a copy of Sun Tzus Art of War.


    Chuyi stood silent in a corner. Shen Hongbin introduced us, They say fighting is a way to get to know each other, dont you agree? I hope youll let bygones be bygones, if theres still any resentment lingering.


    I waved my hand. No need to exin; everyone was working for his own boss. Actually, Ive admired Daoist priest Chuyi for a long time.


    Although I said that with a straight face, I wasughing inside. Chuyi wore a cold face, his eyes never meeting mine.


    Shen Hongbin took out four documents from a file. Two of them were thepanys equity contracts, and the other two were copies of a will. I skimmed the will; it was professionally written. However, after a quick analysis of the terms and conditions, I saw that the rich woman would not inherit a single dime.


    Ill leave this to you two. I need to greet and entertain my distinguished guests. Shen Hongbin then left the room.


    I looked at the tycoon, who was at the moment being possessed by Yuan Chonghuan. I then asked Chuyi, Who was it that gave him those clothes and decorated this ancient room?


    Shen Hongbin wanted to please him. Chuyi shook his head.


    I didnt know any soul-controlling technique, and the tycoon was now a man living in vegetative state; he would die once Yuan Chonghuan left his body.


    As such, those two contracts were impossible to sign... Shen Hongbin would have to find awyer to fix this mess!


    Suddenly, Yuan Chonghuan pped the table. Who are you? Why dont you introduce yourself?


    I was subdued by his imposing aura. I am Zhang Jiulin. Im here to help you.


    Help me? What kind of jest is that? Tens of thousands of miles of my Great Ming dynasty now belong to the Manchurian Qing. Youre just a coarse fellow. How could you be of any help to me? Yuan Chonghuan sneered and mocked.


    I lowered my voice to ask Chuyi, Did you tell him that the Qing dynasty is already a thing of the past?


    He answered, I did, but its useless.


    Yuan Chonghuan threw the book away and jerked up from his seat, talking with a scolding tone. That incapable ruler! He believed in rumors and killed his loyal courtier!


    I couldnt do anything other than patientlyfort him. Sir, youre like a livingYue Fei[1]. We of theter generations understand your woes. History has already exacted justice on your behalf. Your name has been cleared.


    Yue Fei? Yuan Chonghuan lifted his head as tears rolled down his face. Yue Fei was hung at a pavilion. In my case, the torment and agony I had to bear were thousands of times worse than that!


    Yuan Chonghuan was throwing a tantrum while Chuyi and I were watching him. As the time to call Yin Xinyue was drawing near, I had to find a way tofort him and lure him out of here. Forcing or imploring him would raise the attention of the guards.


    I patiently told him how pathetic the Qing dynasty had be in the end and how Huang Taiji died.


    Of course, I also mentioned Emperor Chongzhen, the one who had killed him. He had been forced to flee. He hung himself on a coal mountain, and his body was dismembered by the rebellious force. When I reached that part of the story, Yuan Chonghuan suddenly cried, screaming, Your Majesty!


    Needless to say, he scared the crap out of me.


    His education and upbringing had patriotism as a core value; he had devoted himself to protect the Ming dynasty as a loyal courtier for all his life. I guessed he had contradicting feelings at the moment.


    I received a short message from Yin Xinyue: Brother Zhang, Im parking in front of a shop at the South side of the hotel. Hurry up.


    I shot Chuyi a look, then I said to Yuan Chonghuan, Sir... General Yuan, do you want to take a look at your cenotaph? Your tombstone was carved with manypliments by theter generations.


    Is it true? He lifted his head.


    Of course! I nodded.


    Yuan Chonghuan contemted. If possible, I want to see His Majestys final resting ce. I want to mourn him for a while. Its the duty of a Ming courtier!


    How could he be so dumbly loyal?Yet, I readily agreed to his request. I told him I had an iron horse carriage that could travel a thousand miles a day.


    Yuan Chonghuan shot me a disdainful look. You mean a car?


    It turned out he was already used to being transported in cars. He was actually getting familiar with our modern technology. I was embarrassed since I may have been underestimating the ancient peoples cognitive capacity.


    Anyway, it was unexpected that Yuan Chonghuan would be this willing to go with us. I was still thrilled when I gave him casual clothes that he could change into.


    Yuan Chonghuan was angry. He scoffed, These short tunic, short-sleeved clothes are the Manchurian monster clothes!


    People will recognize you if you dont change your attire.


    He reluctantly changed into the new set of clothes. I even asked him to wear a pair of sunsses. After that, he looked no different than an ordinary uncle.


    Chuyi recited a spell before I pushed the door open. The Daoist boy slowly appeared in front of us. I guessed that he wanted to use his little helper to check the exit route first.


    This little ghost could move conveniently away from the eyes of the bodyguards. Chuyi pushed the door open five minutes after the boy left. There was no one outside, so we hurried to take Yuan Chonghuan to the emergency exit. This hotel had more than forty floors; we would die of exhaustion if we took the stairs to go all the way down. We only descended a few floors until we found a delivery elevator that would take us down to the first floor.


    There were quite a lot of people moving around, including bodyguards Shen Hongbin had hired to guard the lobby and the first floor, and the regr staff of hispany. It wasnt practical to get out of the hotel this way.


    I told Chuyi, We should leave through the underground parking lot!


    Yuan Chonghuans countenance took a turn for the worse when we reached the first basement floor. He was pale and sweating.


    Are you okay? Do you feel hurt somewhere? I asked.


    He just shook his head.


    Someonesing! Chuyi said and pulled us to a hidden corner.


    A truck entered the underground parking lot. It was carrying something heavy; we could soon tell it was the cannon because of its shape.


    I cursed under my breath. The rich woman had sent the cannon there. Lucky for us, we had decided to take action before she did. Or else, the tycoon would have been snatched by her people.


    Yuan Chonghuans expression grew stranger. He was a soul attached to the cannon; in a sense, the cannon was his body. His soul could sense the evil power, given that the cannon had been refined and turned into a malicious weapon.


    I patted Yuan Chonghuan, trying to check if he was all right. He suddenly pped my arm away, shouting, Youre despicable. You want to use this old man! Dont even think about it! Leave me alone! Then, he ran away.


    I was stunned. I shot Chuyi a quick nce before dashing after him. Two guards on the truck noticed themotion and quickly gave chase. However, they ignored us and went directly after Yuan Chonghuan.


    The bodyguards had been professionally trained; they were sprinting as fast as panthers. They were about to catch up with Yuan Chonghuan.


    Damn, do you have any methods to deal with those two? I asked Chuyi.


    I think I do He frowned as though unwilling. Whenever we dealt with living people, the methods we used would produce side effects.


    He took out a fabric pouch fastened close with a red string. The pouch was roughly palm-sized, and the fierce-looking Zhong Kui [2] was embroidered on it. Zhong Kuis left foot was stepping on a ghost while his right hand was grabbing another and shoving it into his mouth. I snatched the pouch before Chuyi could open it.


    I knew this item. It was known as the Ghost Sealing Pouch, and it was also mentioned in my grandpas journal. It was a fierce otherworldly item, and it was really hard to make one. I was sure it contained the evil and malicious ghosts Chuyi had subdued.


    I was the one who suggested the n of kidnapping the tycoon; it was only right that I faced the consequences! I pulled the string without hesitating, feeling a chill immediately after. The lights in the underground parking lot began to sh. Two ck clusters of mist twirled around the two bodyguards, slowly turning into a pair of ghosts. They were most likely a couple.


    "ARGHH!"


    A horrible shriek resounded. Once I reached the guards, I saw that two of them were pounding their heads against the pirs. They were bleeding hard, and one was already unconscious.


    You must be aware that you lose half a year of your lifespan every time you use the Ghost Sealing Pouch to hurt people. Chuyi grabbed my shirt; his voice was as cold as ice. Dont take your life so lightly.


    I knew he was angry, even though his face didnt show it. I had never seen him angry before.


    I couldnt ask you to bear the consequences for me! I said.


    You and I are different. It doesnt really matter if my lifespan is shortened Chuyi picked up the Ghost Sealing Pouch from the ground. He silently read a spell to put the pair of resentful ghosts back into the pouch.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yue_Fei


    2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhong_Kui

 Chapter 377: Sword Immortal Lu Dongbins Descent

    Chapter 377: Sword Immortal Lu Dongbin''s Descent


    Yuan Chonghuan was hiding behind an off-road car. We found him writhing in pain, so much so that it looked as if he could copse in the next minute. We immediately took him away.


    We couldnt take the cannon with us as the rich woman still had a tight grip on the item that could control the cannon. Taking it with us would be no different from carrying a time bomb on our backs!


    The three of us crossed the street to reach the shop Yin Xinyue had told me about. She was seated in an SUV, wearing a hat to cover her beautiful face; she waved at us as soon as she saw us in the distance.


    Brother Zhang! Get in the car! Quickly! Yin Xinyue called and opened the door for us. Yuan Chonghuan studied her for a few solid seconds. Then, he said with deep emotion, So simr to myte wife.


    Ancient people also had pick-up lines!


    However, unofficial records mentioned that Yuan Chonghuan had sent his wife, Mrs. Ruan, to be a hostage in one of his military operations. He didnt treat her well.


    Yin Xinyue, where did you get this car?


    I borrowed it from a friend.


    She still didnt have much driving experience; she seemed to be struggling a bit, going at a very slow speed since she was afraid to be stopped by the traffic police. We decided to switch seats at some point, and Chuyi sat in the back with Yuan Chonghuan.


    I felt General Yuan might be bored, so I went to a supermarket on the way to buy him a bag of lychees. His eyes brimmed with tears when he received the bag. Yin Xinyue quietly asked me, Whats going on?


    I smiled at her. Yuan Chonghuan was from Guangzhou. After he left his hometown, he went from one battlefield to another in the North for dozens of years Its been hundreds of years since hisst visit home to eat lychees, which are famous in that region.


    Chuyi asked when I started the engine, Where are we going?


    We need to find a ce to hide him first. I was nning to take him to an abandoned warehouse somewhere in the suburban area.


    A man suddenly fell from the sky as we were ready to leave, smashing a car that was parked by the street. The pedestrians were scared; they started screaming and running away.


    I lifted my head to look. The ss panels on the highest floor had been broken. Something sparkling was up there.


    Damn! Shes taking action now! Ive underestimated her craziness. I was starting to feel tense.


    Is she nning to kill all the shareholders of thepany? Yin Xinyue sounded worried.


    Then, what would happen to thepanys equity?


    Of course, it will belong to the heir. Were talking aboutsome properties, after all


    Now I get it!No, not good. Shes going to kill Shen Hongbin!


    What?


    Shen Hongbin had the DNA paternity test results, which would stop the rich woman from receiving the familys wealth. But Shen Hongbin had yet to reveal this; he thought it was hisst resort. The rich woman knew that, so she was going to kill him to make him shut up.


    Although I didnt have a good impression of Shen Hongbin, I didnt want to see the rich woman getting away with murder. Chuyi had the same idea. He said indifferently, Lets go there and save them.


    Okay, lets do that.


    I told Yin Xinyue to take Yuan Chonghuan away first; she would need to find a safe ce to hide him. She called me after I had already left, just to ask me to be careful. I carried a bag filled with my things as Chuyi and I rushed back to the hotel.


    A golden-armored warrior had suddenly appeared at the highest floor. He started to massacre people left and right; the entire hotel was in chaos. The bodyguards ran all over the ce, making calls and reporting. It was easy for us to mingle during the chaos. We went directly for the elevator.


    There was mayhem when we reached the highest floor. The golden-armored warrior was using his long broadsword to sh at the people present. He had already killed three bodyguards, and all the distinguished guests were running madly as they tried to escape. The bodyguards decided to flip the long catering tables as they tried to stop him. They could only use some dishes to hit the warrior since they werent carrying guns. The scene looked a bitical.


    Chuyi turned his head around and asked me, Could you keep him upied for a while?


    I thought for a moment and answered, I think I can distract him for five or six minutes.


    Thatll be enough.


    Chuyi took out his eight-faced Han sword and drew a formation on the carpeted floor.


    His left hand slid above the sharp sword, and blood dripped from his palm shortly after. He held the blood-stained sword while he sat cross-legged, which then shed with a dazzling blue light.


    I took out several crow eggs. It was the magic tool I had prepared the night before. I had injected eel blood and goat urine in those eggs, making it abination of extreme Yin items. I guessed it would be enough to attract the attention of the Red Barbarian Cannon.


    I threw an egg to one of the walls. The warrior in golden armor shook as if he was under some spell. He dashed and shed at the wall.


    It worked!I was excited.


    After the golden-armored warrior was done attacking the wall, he turned to look at me with his hollow face. He seemed to be attracted to my crow eggs. I took this chance to throw the eggs in different directions. The warrior growled like an enraged animal. Both of his hands raised the broadsword. Some of the broken eggs fluids fell on a table; the warrior hacked it in two pieces with a single sh, causing the entire floor to shake.


    While he was on a mindless rampage, I picked up a tin bucket that was used to cool Champagne. I discarded the ice and filled the bucket with iron grains. Then, I ced the infants hair and the used towel from some married woman, which I had taken great pains to getst night, inside. Afterward, I poured an entire bottle of swine blood into the bucket and wore a pair of rubber gloves to stir the substance. The iron grains started clumping as the swine blood became solid. I rolled the clumps together to make a big ball. It was obviously not a real iron ball as this thing would break and scatter if you applied some force.


    I finished preparing the round shot just as the warrior had finished dealing with all the stuff that had been smeared with crow egg fluid. His gloomy eyes were now aimed at me. I was getting a little worried, so I told Chuyi, Hey, I cant hold much longer!


    Chuyi, who was sitting on the ground, suddenly jumped onto a table like a man doing a stunt job. He approached the golden-armored warrior at speed the naked eye found hard to follow.


    I wiped my forehead in worry as the warrior shed horizontally. Chuyi slightly flicked his sword up to push the broadsword away. The warriors sword was pushed away, which caused him to lose his bnce.


    Chuyi suddenly jumped and kicked the warrior in the chest. The warrior was flung backward with a loud bang. Afterward, Chuyinded with an awesome pose. His eyes had actually been closed all the time.


    You bold evildoer! You dare wreak havoc in front of me, Lu Dongbin!


    It was Chuyi speaking, but the voice and tone werepletely different. I suddenly understood what had happened. He had invited a spirit to possess his body. This time, he didnt invite a great monster or a Ghost King, but the legendary Lu Dongbin!


    Thats super cool!


    ording to some of the books I had read, Lu Dongbin really existed and was a knight roaming thend and fighting injustice. His swordsmanship had reached a very high level. Later on, he was deified, bing one of the Eight Immortals.


    The golden-armored warrior roared, raising his broadsword again to fight back. Chuyi dodged to the right and then to the left. There were many times the de was just an inch away from his body, but he had managed to avoid all the attacks. I could only break in a cold sweat as I watched.


    The warrior in golden armor wielded his sword wildly; I could even hear the wind hissing whenever his de moved. The tables and chairs were smashed into pieces wherever the de passed. Chuyi was trying to find a chance to attack. His sword had stabbed the warrior several times, but that monster felt nothing. No wounds, no pain.


    I noticed a small detail, though. From time to time, Chuyis free left hand would try to take something from his back. In history, Lu Dongbins weapons of choice were a pair of swords. Drawing both swords had be his subconscious habit. However, since Chuyi only had one at hand, it was affecting Lu Dongbins performance considerably.


    I scanned the hall and found a steel pipe that had fallen off of something. I threw the pipe to him.


    Immortal Lu, catch the sword!


    Thank you, brother!


    Chuyi caught the steel pipe and used it to parry the broadsword. The Han sword in his right hand continuously stabbed the warriors abdomen, sending sparks everywhere. This duel was tremendous!


    The warrior in golden armor was enraged. He drew his sword and swept over from beneath.


    Chuyi jumped up, stomping on the broadsword. The warrior tried to pull, but he couldnt take his sword back. In the next moment, Chuyi beheaded the warrior with a sh.


    Headless, the warrior was forced to return to his original form, the Red Barbarian Cannon, as it aimed its dark muzzle at Chuyi!

 Chapter 378: Payback for the Committed Crime

    Chapter 378: Payback for the Committed Crime


    Watch out! I couldnt help but scream.


    Right after that, the cannon fired, followed by an ear-splitting boom. The iron shell blew off a column, and pieces of debris were sprayed everywhere.


    Chuyifell to the ground, and I ran to him in a hurry. He didnt get hurt as his body had managed to tip backward, barely evading that deadly shot.


    The cannons iron wheels moved, trying to run him over. I jumped and used my hands to pull the wheels. At the same time, I shouted at Chuyi, Move!


    The cannon wanted to get rid of me, so it moved backward, almost straining both of my arms. Two of my fingernails were broken, and my fingers bled.


    Chuyi rolled away, jumping up to get on his feet like a carp. The steel pipe in his hand pierced through the cannon wheel, trying to bend it. The cannons wheels continued to roll backward, bending the steel pipe in the process, which ultimately blocked the wheels. The cannon ended up like a caged beast, unable to move.


    I have a round shot! I screamed.


    Chuyi hit his head when he fell just now; Lu Dongbin had left his body, and his eyes were back to normal. He grabbed the round shot made of iron grains and swine blood, and loaded it into the cannons muzzle.


    Hurry! Get something to stuff that muzzle! Dont let it spit the ball out!I said in a hurry.


    Chuyi pulled a table cloth, crumpled it, and stuffed it inside the muzzle. The cannon shook hard.


    I guessed the round shot inside had crumbled, releasing the infant hair and the used towels, which were extremely irritating to the cannon.


    I used my body to press on the cannon. Then, all of a sudden, its surface started to rust, and ayer of frost covered the cannon. It had consumed too much energy and was at its wits end.


    Then came a st of golden light. An invisible force threw me and Chuyi away. Inded on a table, although I didnt smash it like it often happened in action movies. Chuyi was able tond perfectly. He didnt even have a single scratch.


    The headless warrior wearing golden armor reappeared, limping since one of his legs was broken. He had to use the sword to support himself as he lurched his way to the door. His armor wasnt shining anymore; it was all covered in rust.


    Chuyi took out a spirit talisman and shot it toward the warrior. The warrior was forced to kneel once the talisman touched his body, both of his hands nted on the ground for support. He shivered, looking as though he was under great agony.


    I took out a chain that had been soaked in eel blood from my bag. While holding one end, I threw the other end to Chuyi, who nodded as he understood my idea.


    We hurled the iron chain and coiled it around the warrior. Since his armor already had a thickyer of rust, I wanted to stop it from rising again.


    However, the golden-armored warrior suddenly acted strange. A trickle of red fluid oozed from a slit in the armor; it had a fishy stench.The armor was bleeding!


    The weak golden-armored warrior suddenly got up, grabbed the chains, and started to spin. Chuyi and I were like two sandbags being iled. I was hurled away in the end, as I didnt grab the chain tightly enough. I slid on the ground for a distance before I could finally stop. I hurried to lift my head to see. The warrior grabbed his sword and stood up again. Pieces of his armor were pping slightly, opening and closing as they still bled. He was filled with a murderous aura.


    Whats going on? I was shocked.


    The one controlling it wants to die together with us! Chuyi frowned.


    How crazy is that person?!


    Chuyi took out some talismans and fanned them between his fingers. He then told me calmly, The user must be somewhere close. Go get him. Ill stay to deal with this thing.


    No, you cant deal with it alone I was quite worried about Chuyi.


    Hurry up!


    I bit my lip and left. I heard loud, banging noises as soon as I left the room.


    The user wouldnt stay too far away from the golden-armored warrior since he had to be watching to control him. As such, the security room came to mind.


    I took the elevator and went down to the first floor. Since the golden-armored warrior had made such a sudden appearance, all the people at the bar had run away, and the police had yet to arrive.


    I found the office. The deepest room was the one assigned for security, which was also the control room. I felt an intimidating aura as soon as I neared its door.


    The room was locked, and I had to bump into it several times to open it. I thought that I would see the rich woman inside, but I saw her fat secretary instead when I pushed the door open. He was intently watching the surveince monitors while two security guards were lying on the floor, unconscious. The fat man was holding a metal token; his hair was now gray, and his skin looked loose. It seemed as if he had suddenly aged thirty years. Like tears, two trickles of blood rolled from his eyes, which had sunk deep into his sockets.


    I couldnt help but frown. Even if he could earn more money, would it be worth it if he had to pay with his life?


    Once he saw me, the fat secretary produced a shuddery series ofughter until he vomited blood. The token slipped from his hand and fell onto the ground. I quickly used the chance to pick it up.


    The metal token was hot. There were a dragon and a phoenix on one side; the other side had a big spider with a skull on its back.


    This was the item they were using to control the Red Barbarian Cannon. Actually, this was the first time I hade across something like this.


    On the monitor, I could see the golden-armored warrior chasing after Chuyi. Suddenly, blood spurted from him, and he turned back into a rusted cannon.


    The fat secretary nted his hands on the control desk, shakily getting up. I was worried that he would fall and die in the next moment.


    Yourete! He smiled.


    What do you mean? I arched my eyebrows.


    I was tasked with keeping you upied and distracted. I guess the contract is already signed by now


    Impossible, the tycoon is with us! I screamed.


    Haha, youre too naive. His fleshly body is with you guys, but wheres his soul?


    I suddenly understood. When the tycoon was under surgery, the rich woman had taken his soul away. Of course, she couldnt do that herself; some expert had done it on her behalf. After the operation, she wanted to kill those doctors to prevent them from disclosing her secret.


    I was sure they had tortured the tycoons soul and found a body to let him possess it. That was the only way they could force him to sign the contract. As long as the signature was the same, it would be legal.


    I started to sweat at this point. In all of my life, I had never seen such a wicked method.


    I turned around and left, calling Yin Xinyue on the way. Where are you?


    Im still in the neighborhood. I didnt drive far.


    Please bring the tycoon to the hotel immediately!


    After ending the call, I phoned Shen Hongbin and asked him toe down with Chuyi. A few minutester, Shen Hongbin and Chuyi came out of the elevator while Yin Xinyue led the tycoon in through the main entrance.


    Shen Hongbin was shocked. Why is my brother with you? I thought he had been kidnapped!


    No time to exin. You should do what I tell you if you dont want that woman to take yourpanys equity! I grimaced.


    I asked him to get some stuff, so Shen Hongbin gave orders to his men. I then asked several burly bodyguards to press Yuan Chonghuan down on the floor, who kept struggling and cursing. I thought the police would interfere if they arrived and saw this, which would make things more problematic.


    Shen Hongbin understood my worries. Grandmaster, no need to worry. Just take your time and do what you need to do. Ill take care of the police.


    I told everyone what had happened. They were all shocked. Yin Xinyue asked me, Brother Zhang, what are you going to do now?


    Ill summon the tycoons soul! I replied and gritted my teeth.

 Chapter 379: The Soul Summoning Formation

    Chapter 379: The Soul Summoning Formation


    The bodyguards brought me the stuff I wanted: three roosters, a bag full of eels, crab shell powder, needles, wooden nails, and whips.


    It wasnt hard to summon the soul back to the body; a shaman dance would usually do the trick. However, our current situation was special... Yuan Chonghuan was still inside the tycoons body, and the rich woman had confined her husbands soul somewhere. I wasnt sure if I could pull this off.


    I asked the men to take off the tycoons clothes. After that, I used a knife to collect some eel blood, using it as ink to write the tycoons birthdate on his body and a soul summoning formation on the ground. As for the crab shell powder, it was sprinkled on the formation. The tycoon stopped struggling once he wasid in the middle of the formation. Chuyi also stepped in to help; he cut the roostersbs, using their blood to draw a great formation encircling my formation.


    The small formation in the middle was the Yin formation, which was used to summon souls. However, as soon as the formation was activated, wandering souls would flood in from every direction. That was why we needed the bigger formationthe Yang formationto keep them outside. At the same time, this pair of Yin and Yang formations would create an invisible power that would forcefully draw the tycoons soul back to his body.


    In theory, there was nothing wrong with this method, but I had never tried it before.


    Yuan Chonghuan almost choked on the crab shell powder. He cursed us for being dissenting, dishonest, corrupt, and things along those lines. I just ignored him, only focusing on preparing the formation.


    Shen Hongbin saw that Chuyi and I were cooperating very well. He seemed to understand something. He said as he puffed his cigarette, If Im not mistaken, you two already knew each other and kidnapped my brother Still, I dont know why you want to help me now.


    I think we have some misunderstanding here. I didnt want to work for your sister-inw from the very beginning. I kidnapped your brother so that I could use him as a bargaining chip for my negotiation, I answered.


    A bargaining chip?


    She kidnapped my friend and forced me to help her with thepanys equity transfer contract. I could only scheme against her.


    So thats what happened! Shen Hongbin then understood. You should have told me earlier. Although Im just a Deputy General Director, Im more than capable of rescuing your friend using the connections I have with the police and the underground.


    Thank you. Please keep him safe! I said.


    I swear on the name of my family!


    Shen Hongbin immediately sent his people to save Li Mazi. I asked him to leave some guards with us, just in case we needed more people.


    I asked two bodyguards to grab the whips and stand by. When I gave the order, they would whip the tycoons legs.


    I asked the remaining bodyguards to use the wooden nails to pierce the roosters without killing them. Afterward, they needed to let the roosters run loose in the outer formation. The roosterscrowedloudly, as they were in such unbearable pain.


    Im sorry, General Yuan! While speaking, I stabbed the tycoons chest with the needles that had been soaked in eel blood. Yuan Chonghuans eyes rolled to the back of his head as he shook even harder.


    Whip him! I ordered.


    The two guards were reluctant to take action, and Shen Hongbin had to urge them. After theyshed as ordered, the tycoons legs had several bleeding streaks. The outer formation written with rooster blood started to boil. At the same time, the needles in the tycoons body started to vibrate. The formation had been activated. I told the others, Face the door and call your boss name, as loud as possible!


    They started to call loudly, Shen Yanchen! Come back! Shen Yanchen! Come back!


    It took a solid minute before Yuan Chonghuan stopped shaking. I asked the two bodyguards with the whips to stop hitting him.


    A wisp of Yin energy swirled upward and disappeared into the ceiling. Yuan Chonghuan was gone, but the tycoons soul had not returned!


    The atmosphere suddenly turned gloomy. All the window panels began to rattle, and a gust of wind howled around the outer formation, rolling with ghosts whining and crying. The bodyguards paled in panic, but they didnt dare to stop calling the tycoons name.


    The rooster blood on the ground had almost dried, which made me very worried. Yin energy was steadily gathering, and when the outer formationour defensecopsed, we would be unable to count the number of wandering ghosts flocking from every direction.


    Chuyi suddenly stabbed his sword into the marble floor and sat down cross-legged torecitethe sacred text of Daoism. The roosters were crowing loudly, but his voice was clearly reaching my ears. The tycoon had not moved yet, even after five minutes had passed.


    The rooster crowing gradually subsided, and the blood was almost dry. I was afraid we couldnt rely only on Chuyi reciting the sacred text of Daoism. I gritted my teeth and pulled out the needles in the tycoons chest, asking the bodyguards to pick him up. It seemed that our soul summoning ritual had failed.


    When we moved to pull him up, he suddenly opened his eyes. I was shocked.


    Brother, I was so miserable! He jumped toward Shen Hongbin, crying loudly.


    It worked! Brother Zhang, it worked! Yin Xinyue was so excited that she hugged me. Chuyi exhaled, pulling out his sword from the floor and cing it once again in the sheath strapped to his back.


    The tycoon was still feeble as his soul had just returned to his body. Shen Hongbinforted him and asked his guards to take him to a room to rest.


    Theres one more thing we need to solve! Please follow me! Shen Hongbin said as he took us to the control room.


    The fat secretary was sitting by the control rooms door, dying.


    Who are you? Why did you go to such lengths to help my sister-inw? Shen Hongbin sternly shouted at the man.


    The fat secretary sneered. You know what? Everything you and your brother have should have belonged to me and her.


    What did you just say? Shen Hongbin gawked in shock.


    What the fat secretary told uster left uspletely stunned. When this oilpany had just been established, the fat secretary and the tycoon had been the co-founders. They had taken risks for dozens of years to make theirpany thrive. However, at the time theirpany was about to be listed in the stock market, the tycoon backstabbed him, falsely using him of embezzling thepany funds. He waster sent to jail to face this charge.


    After the fat secretary was released, he underwent several stic surgeries to change his face. He even had hormones injected to make himself fat. That was how he made his way to the rich woman. He had been subtle, waiting for the chance to take revenge. He even advised the rich woman to use supernatural methods, but he had never expected to lose the battle.


    Shen Hongbin didnt look pleased after listening to his story. Its not true. You must be hiding something! You didnt need to go through all of that if you wanted to retaliate against my brother.


    Haha, you have good intuition. Actually, your brothers children are mine, said the fat secretary.


    Indeed, that wasnt outside of my expectations! Shen Hongbin nodded.


    Little Lu and I loved each other for a long time. You see, she had been unable to be pregnant for quite a long time. Thats all because of your brother''s horrible karma. Heaven doesnt want him to sire another generation. Once I got out of jail, she didnt hate or abandon me... Our love was like fire sparking back to life from the ashes. Then, we had two kids. It doesnt matter if I have to die, as long as they grow and live well. Once I get to Hell, I can fight against your brother one more time! The fat secretaryughed.


    Shen Hongbin sneered. If you thought your words could touch me and make me spare her, youre totally wrong! But the two kids are my nephews. In name, anyway. I will provide for them until they graduate from university.


    I wasnt looking for your understanding The fat secretarys voice faded as he was like amp running out of oil.


    Since there wasnt much time left, I had to intervene, Who gave you this token?


    The fat secretary snorted. I guessed the grudge he had against me was even bigger than the grudge he had for Shen Hongbin as I had messed up his entire n. I tried asking several times, but the fat mans head dropped low. Eventually, he exhaled hisst breath.


    Soon, the police came. Shen Hongbin exined the situation. Of course, he couldnt tell all of the truth. This time, we werent taken to the police station to take our oral statement.


    The scene was soon cordoned off. Suddenly, Shen Hongbins phone rang. Once he ended the call, he told me, Li Mazis back.

 Chapter 380: Its Hard to Distinguish Between Honesty and Wickedness

    Chapter 380: It''s Hard to Distinguish Between Honesty and Wickedness


    Shen Hongbin said that Li Mazi was back instead of found. I was surprised.Their efficiency rate is actually this high?


    As we were talking, a Rolls-Royce pulled over outside. Li Mazi walked out of the car, and the rich woman followed closely behind him.


    Li Mazi wore a brand-new casual suit, and his hair was also nicely cut. He didnt look as if he was tortured. Instead, it looked like people had treated him very well. However, he seemed somewhat absentminded. The rich woman pulled his arm, holding her head high.


    Yin Xinyue curled her lips. Immediately seizing the chance when the wind changes. This womans disgustingly cunning!


    As soon as the rich woman entered the hotel, she put on a worried face. Hongbin, wheres my husband? Did he wake up?


    Shen Hongbin blew a puff of smoke. Dont pretend. If I were you, I would buy a ticket and flee to some other country. Let alone Wuhan, from now on, theres no ce you can hide in this country. Anyway, dont worry. I will ask my brother to pay for my nieces and nephews tuition until they finish university.


    The woman sneered, What kind of joke is this? Why do I have to flee abroad? Tell me, what did I do that was illegal? Kidnap someone? I just invited Master Li out for a chat, and it didnt evenst forty-eight hours. Is that illegal?


    Then, she pulled Li Mazi and said to him in a friendly tone, We drank tea and had a nice chat. We really enjoyed our time together. Isnt that right, Master Li?


    Li Mazi nodded dumbly.


    I found it strange. With his nature, it was illogical for him to not have said anything since he came here.


    Brother Zhang, move aside! Yin Xinyue suddenly screamed. Then, Li Mazi took out a dagger from his chest and tried to stab me!


    Although I saw iting, my body didnt react fast enough. Luckily Chuyi grabbed Li Mazis wrist. With a cold face, he hurled Li Mazi onto the ground, making the dagger fly away.


    Li Mazi struggled hard on the ground, but Chuyi pressed his foot on his back, calling us to see him.


    There was a silver needle stabbed into Li Mazis neck. It had sunk deep into his flesh. Chuyi pulled it out, but no blood dripped from his neck.


    As soon as the needle was pulled out, Li Mazi fainted. Yin Xinyue was startled and asked, The needle was in so deep. Did it damage any of his important organs?


    No, it didnt. Its an acupoint. Hm, its called I couldnt recall the acupoints name at this moment.


    Chuyi helped me out. Dazhui, Great Vertebra. It is one of the twelve soul acupoints in the human body.


    He brought the needle under the sunlight and studied it. Many incantations were exquisitely carved on the tiny needle. It looks like it was a tool refined by an evil master.


    The rich woman was scared. I dont know what just happened.


    I retorted, Who did it? You should tell me honestly. Laws may not be able to touch you, but dont forget what I do for a living. I can use a dozen otherworldly items to torture you to death!


    The rich woman felt threatened and paled. I shouted at her one more time.


    That woman asked me to call her ck Spider. Shes from a ce called Longquan Vi, answered the woman.


    That ck Spider was the one that supported you behind the curtain? Was she the one who gave you the metal token?


    The rich woman nodded.


    Chuyi, have you ever heard about this name before? I asked.


    He shook his head.


    I asked the rich woman to take me to find that ck Spider, but she told me that the woman had left already.


    That person came because of you, said Chuyi. Perhaps all of this was aimed at you. I didnt expect this.


    Aimed at me? I was puzzled.


    Although the Longquan Vi and I had several grudges between us, I had helped them once. Things should be even between us now.


    Why would they want to discreetly harm me?


    We brought Li Mazi to a room. I ordered some rice wine and rubbed it on his chest until it reddened. Li Mazi coughed then woke up. Damn. Little Brother Zhang, I just had a nightmare. I dreamt I was holding a dagger and stabbing you!


    You were controlled, I said.


    What? Li Mazi suddenly found that he was lying on the bed half-naked. He hurried to pull the nket to cover himself, muttering, Hey, did I just run around naked?


    Even if you ran around naked, you would have needed an audience. Did the rich woman torture you? I sniggered.


    Li Mazi replied honestly, No, she just locked me up in a room.


    Did you happen to meet another woman?


    No, but did a beautiful woman do something to me while I was unconscious? Li Mazi grinned.


    Im going to tell Ru Xue that! shouted Yin Xinyue, who stood at the door.


    Dont, please dont! Sister-inw, my tongue just slipped. Moreover, how could something so beautiful happen to me Li Mazi seemed very scared of Ru Xue.


    Since Li Mazi was safe and sound, I heaved a sigh of relief.


    A momentter, the four of us nned to leave. Shen Hongbin walked with us to the entrance and shoved a check into my hand to thank us. I know the rule of your business. Ill ask my bodyguards to send the Red Barbarian Cannon to your antique shop. Oh right, when you have time,e visit my house. I have something I want to tell you, said Shen Hongbin.


    Cant we just talk here? I was exhausted, and I didnt want to leave any unfinished business behind.


    I want to invite some distinguished guests to have dinner at my house. Right, I have a 1982 Lafite, and I havent opened it yet. Will you join me? Shen Hongbin smiled gently.


    I had no interest in wine. However, Li Mazi agreed. Later on, he told me that a bottle of 1982 Lafite would cost around several million renminbi. How could he let this chance slip away!


    When I got back home, I took a nice nap and showered after waking up. I spent some time studying the metal token. However, I couldnt figure out any clues.


    A few dayster, we went to attend the feast at Shen Hongbins house. Since the tycoon had experienced enough ups and downs, wealth was no longer attractive to him. Two days ago, he had signed the contract to transfer thepanys equity. Shen Hongbin was the new President of thepany. He was full of spirit.


    The rich woman went abroad with her children, and the tycoon was nning to divorce herter.


    I asked Shen Hongbin if he showed the paternity test result to the tycoon.


    No, I havent. My brothers not doing well, and he cant bear the shock. And, its like Im holding her weakness against her. To earn big money, my brothers hands have been soaked in blood. Hes destroyed manypanies ind and also many families abroad. To get an oil field in Africa, he even sold weapons to the terrorists there. People in that area had to suffer a lot. One time, he even connected an undersea pipe to illegally sell crude oil to the Japanesepanies because they offered him a higher price.


    While listening to him, I was speechless. Those shady activities werent something an ordinary citizen like me couldprehend.


    As he earned more and more money, my brother became strange. Shen Hongbin sighed. I have asked him to stop many times. Sooner orter, he would have to receive retribution! He didnt listen to me. I had even considered hiring an assassin to murder him. But it was just a sh of thought in my mind. No matter what, hes my blood brother. But now, everything hase to an end. Im the new President, and Im going to stop all the dirty transactions. I will properlypensate the ones my brother has caused damage to


    Perhaps when you find that those dirty business deals can bring you a lot of money, you will be like him. I smiled reluctantly.


    Youre right. Thats why I dont trust human beings. I will share the equity in my hands. In the future, every business deal will be determined by the board of directors votes. Things like this will not happen, Shen Hongbin answered.


    I looked at him in disbelief. When I saw him for the first time, he appeared as a bad guy. Meanwhile, the rich woman appeared as a loving wife who was desperately worried about her husband.


    Sometimes, it was hard to judge someones character. Honest people could somehow look disloyal while the traitors could look honest.


    Otherwise, several hundred years ago, Emperor Chongzhen would not have listened to false usations and sentenced Yuan Chonghuan to a slow and painful death. His action had pushed the Ming dynasty into the abyss of damnation.


    Perhaps only time could tell the color of ones heart!

 Chapter 381: A Strange Clock

    Chapter 381: A Strange Clock


    After the Red Barbarian Cannon event ended, I shared the payment made by Shen Hongbin, which was ten million renminbi, with Chuyi, Yin Xinyue, and Li Mazi. I couldnt believe that we had earned that much in a short time. I guessed I didnt need to run my shop for a few years.


    My only regret was that the Red Barbarian Cannon was seriously damaged and that it had lost its power as an otherworldly item. I discussed things with Yin Xinyue, and we decided that we would donate it to a local museum. The value of the cannon as a cultural relic surpassed its value as an otherworldly item. Moreover, the museum had many experts that could restore the cannon.


    Although I didnt have any business for quite a long time after that, I still opened my shop daily. Every day, I leisurely passed my time by enjoying some liquor and reading books.


    One day, I was about to take an afternoon nap when Li Mazi entered with a servile face.


    Little Brother Zhang, are you free?


    Whenever he had this expression, I knew something was up.


    I shot him a nce. Were old friends. If youve got anything you want to tell me, just go ahead. Dont hide it. You look annoying, you know.


    Annoying? How am I annoying? Li Mazis smile grew odd. I heard people on TV say its hard to deny the request of someone whos smiling. Thats why Im smiling so much. No matter how hard the task is, you will feel ashamed if you refuse


    I couldnt help but sneer. If you have so much free time, take care of your son. Dont watch those brainless TV shows.


    I lifted my teacup and took a sip to soothe my throat. Moreover, dont you think youve given me enough trouble?


    Oh, look at you. How can you feel troubled? Everybody will receive benefits! Li Mazi smiled brighter.


    Okay, what do you want? If you dont have any business, Im going to take a nap.


    I do. I do have some business! Little Brother Zhang, why are you in such a hurry? I guess you suffer from high internal heat. Do you want to drink some chrysanthemum tea to relieve your heat? I have a buddy who works in the tea business. If you trust me, I will ask him to send you top-quality chrysanthemum tea


    Li Mazi kept babbling for a while. He ran his mouth like a machine gun.


    I waved at him. If you dont tell me, Im going to tear open your chrysanthemum first!


    Li Mazi was scared and clutched his butt. All right, all right. I will tell you!


    He then lowered his voice and said mysteriously, Little Brother Zhang, its not really a big deal. Its about my buddy, the tea businessman. He got into some trouble


    I nodded and motioned at him to continue.


    Li Mazis spirit was boosted. He didnt wait for me to talk and moved to a small bench so that he could sit in front of me. Weve cooperated and dealt with many otherworldly items. But do you know any otherworldly item that can stop time?


    I was bewildered. Stop what?


    I dont know how to exin it. Those affected are trapped in time. No matter what you do, when you wake up, youll find yourself stuck in the previous day. And, the people around you will also repeat what they did the day before.


    Although Li Mazi was telling me about the situation, it didnt seem like he believed his own words. If he werent my old buddy, I would have sent him to an asylum


    I remembered a time when my grandpa had taught me that time was Yang and space was Yin. As such, there were otherworldly items that had the power to affect time.


    I was serious and looked Li Mazi in the eye. Did your friend recently obtain a clock from somewhere?


    Li Mazi was surprised. Little Brother Zhang, since when have you learned to read the future?


    Stop talking nonsense, I scolded him. Ever since Ive known you, I havent had a nice day to rest. You should tell me every detail. What happened?


    All right, Li Mazi wore a gloomy face and sighed. My buddy works in the tea business. Hes got a partner that encountered some difficulty in his business. He couldnt keep up with it anymore, and he owed my friend dozens of thousands of renminbi. When my friend took his people to his partners house to collect the debt, he found out that his partners family was very poor. He knew his friend was in a difficult situation, so he agreed to take something from the house as a mortgage. However, they looked around the house and didnt find anything valuable. In the end, they found an old clock. My buddy is experienced. He knew that the clock was a precious item, so


    He took it? Taking a clock can bring bad luck, you know? Your friend is really bold. I burst outughing and continued to sip my tea.


    Li Mazi smiled embarrassedly. I know, and I also scolded him for being blind. When he sees something good, he doesnt care about anything else.


    I ced the teacup back on the table. You still have the boldness to me others. You sound like youre better than him.


    Li Mazi smiled apologetically. Well, birds of a feather do flock together.


    I thought that I was just pped in the face.


    Li Mazi reacted immediately, Of course, Little Brother Zhang, you dont belong to our kind. Youre an expert, a real expert!


    You shouldnt beat around the bush. Just get straight to the point.


    Li Mazi nodded. Although taking a clock wasnt good, my buddy didnt care at that time. When he brought the clock home, he even invited an expert to check it and identify the item. He said that it was a Western clock made from the Jiaqing period of the Qing dynasty. [1] It was worth a lot of money. When my buddy heard that, he was so excited that he decided to make this item his family heirloom. Oh, right. He took a picture of it and posted it in his friend circle. Let me show you it.


    Li Mazi took out his phone and checked his friend circle. Then, he brought his phone to my eyes. Look, this is it!


    It was a Western-style, exquisite chiming clock. The decorative design on the clocks face was ancient, simple, and unadorned. Although it was really old, it was precious because it was perfectly preserved. However, I spotted a faint carving symbol on the top of the clock. It looked like the Chinese character, .


    I guessed this character was carved after the clock was made.


    Li Mazi saw that I was quiet and felt a little agitated. Little Brother Zhang, is this really that hard to solve?


    When he saw me gazing at the character, he couldnt help but say, My friend didnt carve that character. Perhaps the previous owner didnt know the value of the clock and just did that.


    That character represents the end of life and the start of death. This clock is an ominous item! I said.


    Li Mazi was shocked. Brother Zhang, I didnt know that you could read fortune through words.


    There are many things you dont know.


    Li Mazi lowered his voice. Since its an ominous item, how ominous could it be? Compared to the other items weve encountered before, is it stronger or weaker?


    I dont know. I dont dare to say anything before I see it.


    Its easy to see the real thing. We should go to my friends house. Hes waiting for you. Li Mazi smiled and walked out of the shop.


    I yawnedzily. Why do you have to be in such a hurry? Wait until I finish my nap.


    Eh? Li Mazi was dizzy. Saving a human life is important. How could you take a nap now?!


    I waved my hand to dismiss him. I headed to my bedroom and didnt bother to turn my head around to look at him. You arent worried about someones life. Youre worried about money.


    Li Mazis face turned sour.


    I didnt have a nice nap as Li Mazi was impatiently pacing back and forth outside. He seemed to hate that he couldnt just stomp around and break my floor.


    Reluctantly, I had to get up.


    When Li Mazi saw me, his tense face changed into a smile. Little Brother Zhang, you woke up!


    Woke up, your sister! I couldnt even sleep! I shot him a fierce nce. Be honest, how much did your buddy promise to give you? You look so anxious, just as if there was a fire burning under your butt!


    Haha. Li Mazi feigned ignorance. Its all for friendship. Money has nothing to do with it.


    Yeah, sure. Can your eyes even see something else besides money? I turned around and headed toward the bathroom.


    Little Brother Zhang, you cant say that. Besides money, I also ept silver, gold, emerald, or diamond. Im not picky.


    I almost choked on my mouthwash. I quickly finished cleaning my face and then left with Li Mazi.


    At around 2:00 PM, we arrived at a famous residential area in our city. The rich lived here.


    I looked at avishly decorated single-family vi and couldnt hold in my envy. Your friends business isnt bad. The price of the homes in this area have grown up to five digits, right?


    You wish! Li Mazi sounded jealous as well. I heard that when he bought it, it was already five digits. Its been years, so this vis price should be much higher now!


    We should also buy a house like this when we have enough money. I sighed and walked with Li Mazi to the residential area.


    The security guard was suspicious of us. We were stopped at the entrance and questioned for a long time. Eventually, he let us in with a skeptical face. Li Mazi and I had walked a distance, and when we turned around, we saw the security guy was still looking at us.


    Li Mazi was enraged. Shoot! What kind of people does he think we are?!


    Then, he abruptly turned around and said that he needed to talk to the security guard.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jiaqing_Emperor

 Chapter 382: The Tea Businessman

    Chapter 382: The Tea Businessman


    I pulled Li Mazi back. Hes just doing his job. Do not trouble him. Its more important to see your friend first!


    Li Mazi let it go after I said that. Hes lucky that Ive got something more important to do today. Otherwise, I would have to make things clear to him. When I started to roam the streets, he was still wearing diapers and running around with a runny nose!


    I didnt know how to reply to this shameless man.


    Li Mazi continued, Moreover, were handsome and stylish. At first nce, we cant be the bad guys, right? Were helpful citizens, good people! If he doubts us, then hes got the eyes of a dog!


    I couldnt help but carefully study Li Mazis ordinary appearance. His facial skin was as bumpy as the moons surface. I didnt know what to say, so I could only let out a dry cough.


    Li Mazi reacted and gave me a sheepish smile. I meant you!


    Li Mazi, I have to admit that I admire you a little, I said in all seriousness. Although youre seldom serious, you have a lot of friends and connections. You know people everywhere...


    Li Mazi looked excited and didnt wait for me to finish speaking. Of course! While traveling around the world, we have to rely on friendship. Without friends, how could we blend in and work? Little Brother Zhang, Im not bragging. In this line of business, if you want to do anything or find someone, just call me. I promise that I will satisfy you. If I cant, my surname will no longer be Li! Li Mazi sounded content.


    I smiled. I was afraid that if he talked more, he would blow himself up and soar into the sky, so I had to change the topic. Is this brother of yours someone with a big family background?


    I wouldn''t say so! Li Mazi didnt agree and pouted his lip. Little Brother Zhang, we are old friends, so I wont conceal anything from you. That friend of mine, his ancestors were famous for being poor. As for how poor were they? They said that once there was a beggar who asked to stay the night. When he left their house in the morning, he even paid them ten coins out of pity.


    I couldnt help butugh out loud.


    Li Mazi smiled at me. However, my buddys luck turned out to be good. He had three siblings, who are either in jail or dead. Hes the only one well-off.


    One day, a tea merchant passed by his vige. Coincidently, he didnt have enough people who worked for him. Since my friend was an honest fellow, the merchant recruited him and even made him his apprentice. Otherwise, my friend might have starved to death. The tea merchant eventually got sick and passed away after a few years. My friend then inherited his business. But life hasnt been good for him these past few years as no one had much leisure time or the inclination to drink tea.


    His tea business didnt do very well at first. Then, as everyones life got better, people started to enjoy tea once again. Moreover, the weather in the South is suitable and helps to produce good quality tea.


    That friend of mine has also been doing better. Sometimes, I think that fate doesn''t make any sense. Previously, he was worse than a beggar. Now, he stays in a vi, drives nice cars, and enjoys good food and wine. Destiny is truly unpredictable.


    When Li Mazi finished talking, we stopped at an elegant-looking vi.


    This is the ce. Li Mazi pointed at the big gate. The vi in front of us had an odd atmosphere as the surrounding air was strangely hot and stuffy.


    Something wasnt right.


    Be careful, I reminded him.


    Li Mazi wore a cautious face and stepped forward to ring the doorbell.


    A pale, middle-aged man soon opened the door. He opened the door a little and cautiously stuck out half of his head. When he saw Li Mazi, he heaved a sigh of relief, slowly opening the door for us. Li Mazi, youre here.


    His voice was very hoarse, and it didnt match his looks. He sounded like a dying old man.


    His face looked like he hadnt been under sunlight for years. He didnt have a bit of color. The blue veins under his thin, pale skin were clearly visible, which gave him a scary appearance.


    When Li Mazi saw his friend, he was shocked. Old Gang, you How did you turn into this ghostly appearance?


    Li Mazi even forgot the words he had prepared to greet his friend and quickly pulled back his leg that had almost stepped into the house.


    There was no light in Old Gangs house, and all the curtains were closed. The room was strangely dark.


    Old Gangs w-like hand grabbed Li Mazi as if he had just grabbed onto a buoy during a life-threatening situation. Li Mazi, please save me. If this continues, I will die.


    His sudden move scared Li Mazi. Hey buddy, Im here. Dont worry. Ivee to help you. Just get off me first. Please, get off me.


    However, no matter what Li Mazi said, Old Gang didnt want to let go of him. He even knelt in front of Li Mazi.


    All right! Old Gang, let go of me. Your grip is too strong Li Mazi grimaced in pain.


    Bong! Bong! Bong!


    We suddenly heard the heavy sound of a clock.


    There were three bongs.


    The first bong sounded as if it came from a very far distance. It felt like we were in the middle of a mountain pass, and I heard the bell from a faraway temple.


    After the second bong, the clock felt near us. It felt like someone had tied us up and struck a bell next to our ears. The sound was ear-splitting, and it almost pricked our eardrums.


    Lastly, the third bong wasnt actually from the clock. It was more like that of a screaming woman who was trying to convey her resentment and grudge through her voice. I even heard fingernails scratching the floor.


    After the three bongs, Old Gang looked as if all of his strength had left him. He slumped onto the ground. His eyes became empty as he talked in a shaking voice, The bell rang! The bell rang


    Li Mazi didnt help Old Gang get up. He turned to me with a cautious look on his face.


    I was annoyed but found it funny. Why are you looking at me? Hurry, help him up.


    He kept calling him buddy, and now that he was in danger, Li Mazi wanted to run faster than anybody else. Even if I could search through the newest edition of the Xinhua Dictionary, I would never find a word that described Li Mazi best.


    When Li Mazi confirmed that my expression didnt change, he slowly helped Old Gang get up. His actions were hesitant. If Old Gang did anything strange, he would run for sure.


    Old Gang didnt move. He was like a statue.


    Li Mazi exhaled. However, as soon as he touched Old Gangs shirt, he jerked back as if he had just received an electric shock. Little Brother Zhang, somethings wrong.


    He was scared.


    What happened? I frowned and walked toward him.


    Li Mazi pointed at the absent-minded Old Gang. Look, his clothes are wet.


    In just a few minutes, Old Gang had be very sick. He was sweating so much that his clothes had turned damp.


    The strangest thing was that his face was still ashen, but without a single drop of sweat.


    I pushed Li Mazi aside and gently supported Old Gang.


    Old Gang was too weak. He leaned against me, and I had to exert my strength to help him reach the sofa.


    I turned to Li Mazi, who was still standing by the door. Switch on the lights.


    Okay. Li Mazi turned on the switch.


    Old Gang, who was absent-minded just a moment ago, suddenly jolted up. His voice was high and sharp. Dont Dont turn on the lights!


    The sudden change of his voice surprised me. What kind of otherworldly item could torture people like this?


    My curiosity was piqued.

 Chapter 383: The Delivery From Hell

    Chapter 383: The Delivery From Hell


    Li Mazi didnt care about Old Gangs protest. He found the switch and turned on the lights before abruptly closing the door. What the heck are you babbling about? Just do what Little Brother Zhang asks you to do! Hes a first-ss expert. If you dont want to die, behave yourself!


    Old Gang was angry, but after he heard Li Mazis words, he calmed down. Li Mazi was familiar with Old Gangs house. He ran to the kitchen and fetched two beers from the fridge. Little Brother Zhang, take a sip before getting down to business.


    I shook my head and signaled at him to drink by himself. I looked around and carefully assessed the geomancy of Old Gangs house.


    Rising wind, rising water, and auspicious energy from the East. This set up would help bring good luck and avoid cmities.


    It seemed Old Gangs vi was built with the help of a master. Li Mazi went over to Old Gang and asked, Wheres the nanny?


    Old Gang lowered his head and answered in a glum voice, Fired.


    Why? Li Mazi didnt get it.


    Since that damn clock was brought to my house, strange things havent stopped happening. I was afraid that she would get involved in this and that she would go around spreading rumors. If that happened, my peers would make fun of me


    As he spoke, Old Gang kept his head low. He moved his eyes quickly as if he was panicking or assessing something.


    I didnt know that you still have a bit of conscience. Li Mazi smiled. Old Gang became tense, lowering his head further.


    I shot Li Mazi a nce and motioned him not to ask so many questions. Li Mazi was smart and understood what I meant. He sat and drank his beer, no longer asking questions.


    A momentter, we heard the doorbell ring.


    Oh? Whos that? Li Mazi ced his empty beer on the coffee table. He stood up and was about to open the door.


    Express delivery, said Old Gang in a trembling voice, his whole body shaking.


    Really? How do you know that? Li Mazi halted halfway as he approached the door.


    Old Gang rubbed his hands anxiously. It happens every day at 3:15 PM. The delivery guyes at this time every day.


    How could there be such a coincidence? Li Mazi didnt believe it. He went to open the door. A dark-skinned, sweaty delivery guy stood at the gate. He held a carton and asked politely, Excuse me, is this Chen Fugangs house?


    That was Old Gangs real name.


    Li Mazi nodded.


    The delivery guy gave him the box and pointed at the receivers signature position. Please sign here. Just your name is fine. He also took out a pen from his pocket.


    I looked at Old Gang, who was holding his head low and mumbling something. I went closer to him so that I could hear what he was saying.


    After Li Mazi gave his signature, the delivery guy tore the receipt and smiled. If you need quick delivery, just call me. Im in charge of delivering parcels in this neighborhood.


    As he was talking, Old Gang was muttering the same words as the delivery man. When the delivery guy turned around to leave, Old Gang suddenly lifted his head, opened his desperate eyes, and looked at me. Totally the same! Totally the same! He hasnt changed even a word. Its exactly like yesterday and the day before yesterday. Its been like this for days


    As his voice faded, Li Mazi raised his. I dont believe in your nonsense.


    Then, he directly stormed outside and chased after the delivery guy. He grabbed the mans shirt. Who do you work for? Why do youe and y pranks here? You inquired who was living here beforehand, right?


    The delivery guy was shocked. He shook off Li Mazis hand. What are you doing? Did you watch the video where they bullied the delivery guy and want to do the same? Since he was anxious, he spoke in his countryside ent.


    Li Mazi thundered, Whos freaking bullying you? I just wanted to ask you who sent you. Why do youe here every day to deliver a freaking package?


    When the delivery guy heard that, he pulled himself together. Are you sick or what? You ordered a parcel, and I came to deliver your parcel. Its my job. Its so hot today, and Im not that crazy to run around under such heat for nothing!


    He shot Li Mazi a fierce nce then drove away in his electric bike.


    Li Mazi brought the carton box back to the vi and gave me a puzzled look. Whats going on here?


    I didnt understand it, either.


    Old Gang raised his hand and pointed at a corner. Li Mazi and I followed his finger to see what he was pointing at. What we saw made us bewildered.


    The corner by the window had a pile of neatly-stacked carton boxes. There were twenty or thirty of them, all of simr size and packaging. Even the tape on the boxes was the same as the one in Li Mazis hands.


    Li Mazi shrieked as if he was holding a hot potato in his hand, throwing the box away. The boxnded on the ground with a loud bang.


    Li Mazi was worried and ran to me. Little Brother Zhang, this is too much. We havent encountered anything like this before. How about


    I knew what he wanted to say. How about we run away?


    To be honest, this otherworldly item was indeed bizarre. I felt worried and wasnt sure if I could deal with it.


    When Old Gang heard Li Mazi, he lifted his head to say something. However, he just mouthed the words and didnt make a sound. He lowered his head again.


    I gave Li Mazi a disdainful nce. Who was babbling about justice and righteousness earlier? Is this the justice you mentioned? You know what, if the word justice ()cks a small dash, its just an X!


    Li Mazi exined embarrassedly, Its because things are really strange this time. I dont want to risk my life for this small amount of money. Its not worth it! Little Brother Zhang, you know I have a son. If something fatal happens to me, how could my poor son live?


    I pped his shoulder. Stop talking nonsense. Im about to throw up now.


    Li Mazi flinched in pain. Little Brother Zhang, were all civilized people. We can usenguage to solve the problem. Theres no need to use force!


    While I was thinking of kicking him, Li Mazi swiftly moved aside.


    I then stood up, stretched my body, and prepared to work.


    Old Gang, show me the otherworldly item.


    Old Gang was bewildered. Otherworldly item? Whats that?


    It turned out he didnt know that the clock he got was an otherworldly item.


    Li Mazi chimed in, Its the treasure that has turned you into this.


    Old Gang reacted, Otherworldly item, you mean Do you mean that clock is an otherworldly item? Its an item of the dead?


    Im not sure if its an item of the dead. In our business, we call the items that can harm people with that term. Old Gang looked pitiful, so I gently tried to exin things to him.


    Li Mazi pouted his lips when he saw how differently I was treating Old Gang.


    I pretended not to see that.


    Old Gang mechanically nodded. His face was full of loss, regret, worry, and fear.


    I patted his shoulder and tried tofort him. Dont worry. There will be a solution.


    However, when I touched his shoulder, it felt like I had touched a sponge that had absorbed a lot of water. He felt too soft, and there was no vitality


    I checked Old Gangs shadow and couldnt help but frown.


    Old Gangs condition wasnt good.

 Chapter 384: The Strange Events Have Just Begun

    Chapter 384: The Strange Events Have Just Begun


    When Li Mazi saw my strange expression, he ran behind me. Little Brother Zhang, is everything okay? We can still leave...


    I turned and red at him. If you want, you can leave. Dont linger here and talk nonsense. Its not like we have to leave together. But let me tell you something... If you walk out that door today, you should nevere back to my door again.


    Li Mazi was stunned and couldnt speak. After a long time, he sighed. All right, all right! Im not leaving! After all, Im a nice guy. Im too nice, and I have a soft heart.


    He hummed Heart Too Soft by Richie Jen as he headed toward Old Gangs bedroom.


    I grabbed his cor and pulled him back. Why do you have to follow us in?


    What should I do then? Li Mazi fumed. Since Im here, I might as well see that otherworldly item.


    I sniggered and shot him a strange look. Oh well, you can see it, but I purposely stretched my words.


    But what? Li Mazi became tense.


    But if that otherworldly item curses you, donte looking for me.


    As soon as Li Mazi heard that, he turned around and returned to the living room. Little Brother Zhang, be safe. Remember that your brothers waiting for you outside. If things go wrong, just scream. Ill storm in with an ax to hack that evil thing!


    He moved so quickly that I almost saw afterimages. A second ago, he was still right before me. In the next second, he was in the corner of the living room, happily unboxing Old Gangs packages.


    I ignored him and followed Old Gang to his bedroom.


    His bedroom was also dark with loosely hung curtains. It was so dark that I couldnt even see my fingers. However, the ticking sound from the clock was very clear. It felt like water droplets gently falling on a stone. Each ticking felt both distant and near.


    Old Gang sat on the edge of his bed, his face emotionless. Here it is. Ive been tortured so much that Im about to lose my mind. If it continues, I will die soon


    I found the switch on the wall and turned on the lights.


    To Old Gangs surprise, all the sounds in his ears stopped. The instant the lights in the room were turned on, the clock stopped moving.


    The hour, the minute, and the second hands all halted. The surroundings were now deadly silent, and Old Gang dropped his jaw in shock.


    A clock was disyed by the bedside table. Its dark brown wooden case looked smooth and shiny due to the age. In the middle was a ss cover that had many scratches. It looked like a top-quality jade piece with some ws. The hands were made of pure bronze. Due to humidity and improper storage, the hour hand and the minute hand had dabs of patina.


    At the top of the clock, there was a sign simr to the Chinese character . It was like an abyss that had suddenly appeared in the middle of a meadow. It was rather eye-catching.


    Old Gang stared at the clock with a disbelieving look. I-It stopped moving!


    It seemed this strange otherworldly item had a fatal w. It was afraid of light.


    As long as it had a weakness, we could deal with it. I heaved a sigh of relief.


    But before I could rx, the familiar ticking noise began again. However, this time, it was much faster.


    Old Gang, who had just felt a glimmer of hope, was scared again. He tried to gasp for breath like a goldfish out of water. He was breathing desperately, terrified of the iing death.


    Thest beam of light in his eyes seemed to have vanished.


    I wasnt afraid of him not having any hope, but rather him not having any fighting spirit. If he didnt even have the will to live on, I could do nothing to help him.


    I was worried about Old Gang. I couldnt let him stay in the bedroom for too long.


    Li Mazi! Li Mazi! I called Li Mazi, who was in the living room.


    However, he didnt answer me. Feeling puzzled, I walked out of the bedroom.


    Li Mazi was standing at the main door, cautiously looking inside the vi.


    I was furious. You bastard! You told me that you would wait outside and storm in with your ax if I needed help. Is this how you nned to help me? By watching the main entrance?!


    Li Mazi wore an aggrieved face and pouted his lips. Little Brother Zhang, you cant me me. I I couldnt find an ax!


    What an excellent excuse! I hated that I couldnt just kick him to death.


    Youre such a coward. Luckily, you were born at the right time. If you had been living during the Resistance Era, you would havebeled a traitor! I shot him a disdainful nce.


    Li Mazi hated the term traitor the most. When I said that, his face reddened. He screamed, Whos a coward? I... I was trying to explore the exit for us. After all, if that thing was too strong and we couldnt deal with it, we would have to escape!


    He then straightened his back and tried to look valiant. He walked in and said, Whos a coward? Do I look scared?


    If Old Gang wasnt in critical condition, I would have loved to give Li Mazi a proper scare.


    For Old Gangs sake, I decided to spare Li Mazi for the time being.


    I asked Li Mazi to help Old Gange out of his bedroom.


    As soon as Li Mazi entered the bedroom, he saw the clock and smacked his tongue. Its just a small item. Is it that powerful?


    I was losing my patience. Get him out of here and close his bedroom.


    I turned around and went to the living room, where I saw the things Li Mazi had unboxed on the floor.


    They were the same items. They should be the things Old Gang had ordered before this happened.


    Everything was so strange!


    All of a sudden, I heard a loud noise from the bedroom. I turned around and ran toward it. Li Mazi was on the ground, growling in pain. Old Gang looked as though he had lost his mind. He was standing in front of the clock and meticulously rubbing the character .


    Li Mazi scolded weakly, Old Gang, are you crazy?! You hit me so hard that you almost broke my rib. Youll have to pay for my medication!


    I suddenly remembered Old Gangs great strength. I had noticed this about him when I first saw him at the gate.


    Old Gang was now approaching madness. I worriedly called him, Old Gang, are you okay?


    After a short pause, Old Gang abruptly picked up the clock.


    Old Gang! I wanted to stop him.


    The man raised his head and smiled at me. I could see all the green veins on his face. His face twisted strangely. At that moment, I felt that Old Gang was now another person. When he opened his mouth, it was like a bottomless dry well, so dark that I couldnt see the bottom.


    Bang!


    The clock fell to the ground.


    With a loud bang, I felt a sharp twinge at the nape of my neck. I felt as if someone had just punched me hard, which gave me head-splitting pain. I then fell and cked out.

 Chapter 385: A Frightening Nightmare

    Chapter 385: A Frightening Nightmare


    When I woke up, I found myself in my bed. My surroundings were quiet, and I caught the smell of tea in the air.


    Am I in my antique shop?


    How did Ie back to this ce? I was in Old Gangs house, wasnt I?


    Did I just have a nightmare? Or, am I trapped into one?


    Ever since I had entered this business, I had never experienced such a strange situation. I shook my head and tried to clear my mind.


    I heard someone pace outside my bedroom. Those hurried footsteps sounded familiar.


    There was no need to guess. The footsteps belonged to Li Mazi. As I thought about him, my blood started to boil.


    Damn it! Its all because of that bastard! If it werent for him, I wouldnt be entangled with so many problems. I could just stay in my antique shop, enjoy tea, and leisurely pass my time. I wouldnt have to experience so many hardships!


    If Heaven gave me another chance, I would use all of my power to kick Li Mazi far, far away. As far as possible. It would be best if I could kick him to Siberia and never meet him again!


    I felt dizzy as I got out of bed to open the door.


    Li Mazi was pacing back and forth outside. He looked incredibly worried. After hearing the noise I made, he turned around. With a smile, he said, Little Brother Zhang, you woke up!


    ording to the normal plot, I would retort, Woke up your sister! I couldnt even sleep!


    However, the words were stuck in my throat. I couldnt make a sound.


    Li Mazi carefully assessed my face. Are you all right, Little Brother Zhang? Did you have a nightmare?


    It was way more frightening than a nightmare!


    I cleared my mind and said in a normal tone, Li Mazi, arent you here to ask me to help your friend, Old Gang?


    Little Brother Zhang, did you just lose your memory after a nap? I told you before, right? After your nap, you wille with me. If you dont, things will be over for my buddy When Li Mazi came to this part, he suddenly realized something. He looked at me in disbelief. No, thats not right. Howe you know hes called Old Gang? Im sure I havent told you his name.


    While Li Mazi was dumbstruck, I didnt look any better.


    What was going on?


    I waved at Li Mazi and motioned at him toe close to me.


    Li Mazi didnt have a clue and approached me.


    My hand moved fast. I pped him without saying a word.


    After Li Mazi was hit, he was so dumbstruck that he forgot how to talk. He covered half of his face and looked at me in puzzlement.


    I asked him, Did that hurt?


    Li Mazi dumbly nodded.


    It hurts, so its not a dream I muttered.


    Li Mazi threw a tantrum. What the heck! Did you sleep so much that your brain went numb? If you want to know if youre dreaming or not, why dont you p yourself? Why did you hit me?! He gritted his teeth and swung his arm back and forth as if he was preparing to counterstrike.


    Hey, dont make a mess! I put on a serious face and pushed him away.


    I dont want to make a mess, but I will never bear a loss. You better show me your cheek as well. Li Mazi said reluctantly, Tell me honestly, have you been waiting for this chance to hit me because you dont find me pleasing to the eye?


    I made a face because I was afraid Li Mazi would keep pestering me. Do you want me to help your friend or not? If you dont, just p me. I will go back to sleep then.


    Li Mazi rolled his eyes and said with a smile, Im just joking. Weve been through life and death, so a p doesnt matter much, right? If we were living in ancient times, we would be sworn brothers already. It was just a p, and even if you were to make my face swell up, I wouldn''t say a word. I will even offer you my other cheek!


    I snorted.


    Li Mazi tried to earn my favor. Should we depart now?


    I took a deep breath. The otherworldly item this time was really strange. Ever since I had entered this Circle, it was the most interesting item I had ever encountered. My curiosity was aroused.


    Although I didnt know if I was in a dream or not, I decided to have a nice battle against that clock.


    I nced at Li Mazi. Why are you still standing idle? Show me the way!


    Li Mazi screamed, Yes Sir! Lets go!


    After two steps, I called him, Hold on, I have to wash my face. I need to maintain my image!


    Li Mazi couldnt stop on time and mmed into the door panel.


    Seeing that rich residential area again gave me a strange feeling.


    Little Brother Zhang, say something, will you? Youve been silent all the way here. Ive checked on you several times since I was worried that you had stopped breathing.


    I dont feel like talking, alright? I gave Li Mazi a discontented nce.


    Li Mazi guffawed. His left cheek was swollen, and five finger marks were imprinted on it.


    He raised his hand and lightly patted his mouth. This mouth of mine should really stay shut! Little Brother Zhang, I was wrong. Please forgive me.


    I scanned the ce and thought for a moment. Then I asked, Your friends business isnt bad. The price of the homes in this area have grown up to five digits, right?


    You wish! Li Mazi sounded jealous. I heard that when he bought it, it was already five digits. Its been years, so this vis price should be much higher now!


    Li Mazis answer was the same as the previous time.


    Not only him, but when we entered the neighborhood, the security guard was the same. He interrogated Li Mazi and me with the same doubtful face. Eventually, he let us in and was still suspicious of us.


    After walking away for a while, Li Mazi turned around and saw the security guy gaze at us. He was enraged. Shoot! What kind of people does he think we are?!


    He wanted to turn around and talk to the guy. I didnt even turn my head around and walked forward.


    After running several steps, Li Mazi saw that I didnt stop him. Feeling embarrassed, he returned to my side. Little Brother Zhang, I have to talk to him and teach him not to use his dog eyes to assess people.


    Okay, go then. I nodded.


    Li Mazi was bewildered. Perhaps we will have to fight.


    All right. I waved my hand as if I was shooing away flies. Go, dont wait for me.


    Li Mazi was puzzled. Since were friends, shouldnt youe with me? You could support me and give me more courage.


    Your moves are good enough. If I go with you, I will be a burden.


    Fists dont have eyes. What if I hit him too hard and he gets badly hurt? Wouldnt you want to stop me?


    I stopped and beamed at Li Mazi. Dont worry, just sit in jail for a few years. I promise I will visit you very often. Also, I will raise your son as if he were my own. I will find a good husband for Rue Xue, too.


    Oh shoot! Are you even my friend?! Li Mazis facial expression changed. He followed me. He kept silent and didnt mention anything about quarreling with the security guy anymore.


    If I had known he was such a coward, I wouldnt have stopped himst time.


    It was just a waste of time.


    Anyway, everything was the same as the previous time. We went to Old Gangs vi, Li Mazi hit the doorbell, and Old Gang quickly opened the door for us.


    Everything had happened once already. Old Gang grabbed Li Mazis hand as if he was grabbing a lifebuoy. Li Mazi screamed in pain. Then, the clock bonged.


    There were still three strange bongs.


    Old Gang let go of Li Mazis hand, and he slumped as if he had suddenly lost all of his strength. Everything happened the same, which made me smile.


    Li Mazi turned to me, looking aggrieved. My buddy has turned to this state, and you still have the mood to smile?


    I purposely maneuvered around him, walked into the vi, and turned on the lights.


    Old Gang became tense. He looked at me. No, dont turn on the lights! Also Who are you?!


    Li Mazi introduced me. This is the expert Ive told you about. Old Gang, youre really lucky to have me as your friend. If it were someone else, they wouldnt be able to invite such a great guy. Your problem is trivial, and our man here just needs to move his fingers to solve it. You dont need to worry. Right, have you prepared the payment for us?


    He didnt even blush or need to stop to gasp for his breath as he was shamelessly bragging. I couldnt help but intervene. Stop bragging. We dont even know what the problem is.


    Li Mazi was busted, but his face didnt change a bit. He confidently patted Old Gangs shoulder. My younger brothers good, but hes too humble. When we return home, I will criticize him.


    Since when did I be your younger brother?


    Li Mazi didnt give me a chance to talk and walked directly to the kitchen. To avoid the previous situation when I needed support and he wasnt there, I said, Can you be a little upright? Dont drink now. Businesses first.


    Li Mazi was startled. Little Brother Zhang, can you see the future already? How did you know I was going to find something to drink?


    Seeing that I was ignoring him, Li Mazi thought that he had to brag some more to Old Gang. Did you see that? I wasnt deceiving you. Our expert here has supernatural powers. As soon as you wiggle your butt, he knows what you want to do


    Why do I find these words so awkward?


    Old Gang didnt have any reaction as Li Mazi talked. He still looked absentminded.


    Compared to thest time, Old Gang looked even weaker.


    Soon, it was 3:15 PM. The delivery guy rang the doorbell on time. This time, I didnt let Li Mazi get the door. I walked out myself.


    The delivery guy greeted, Excuse me, is this Chen Fugangs house? Please sign here. Just your name is fine.


    I took the pen and signed it. Then I asked, Do youe here every day to deliver parcels?


    The delivery guy looked surprised. I dont think so? There are many express packages I have to deliver every day. I cant remember.


    I nodded and smiled at him.


    After the guy left, I asked Old Gang, Where did you get that clock? Think carefully and tell me.


    Old Gang moved his somewhat stiff eyeballs. From a business partner of mine. He owed me some money and wanted to use some property to repay me. He was broke and this old item was the only valuable-looking thing in his family. I was happy with it, so I took it home. I didnt know


    Who is that partner? Do you have his contact information? I asked.


    Old Gang tried to remember. His brows mmed together. After a while, he said with a grimace, I think I do.


    Li Mazi sat nearby and screamed discontentedly. If you have it, just say you do. Why would you have to beat around the bush? Did you watch so many Korean dramas that you wanted to y the scene where you lose your memories?


    Before he could finish, I hit his back. It hurt him enough to make him grimace. Why do you have to talk so much? Just shut up and drink some beer. Dont trouble me.


    Li Mazi mumbled, Im trying to help you in every way, but you say that Im troubling you. My heart is in shambles! As he talked, he ran to the kitchen to grab some beers.

 Chapter 386: Hes Dead Already

    Chapter 386: He''s Dead Already


    Old Gang reached underneath the coffee table and took out a square wooden box. He opened it, and it was stuffed with business cards.


    He had a lot of acquaintances.


    To obtain the glory he held today, Old Gang must have spent countless efforts. He exerted a lot of his strength to find a business card in the box and handed it to me. Its him.


    The business cards owner was surnamed Song.


    I quickly dialed the number on the card with Old Gangs telephone. The phone rang several times, but no one picked up. I called again, and the result was the same. I dialed the office number on the business card and found that the number didnt exist.


    I was upset to learn that I couldnt contact the person named Song.


    The phone kept ringing, but no one picked up. I thought for a moment, then asked Old Gang, If you are business partners, he should have contacted you and some other people, right? Do you know anybody that is a mutual business partner?


    Old Gang thought for a minute then found another business card. He handed it to me.


    This time, the call went through. A male voice came from the other end of the line. He sounded a little hoarse but smooth-tongued. Old Gang, you rarely call me! I know youre very busy with your business. Why have you remembered to call me all of a sudden?


    Hello sir, Im Old Gangs friend. I need to ask you something


    Before I could ask, the mans voice grew more cautious. Who are you? What happened to Old Gang? Are you the police? Did Old Gang do something illegal? Officer, Im just a business partner of Chen Fugang. We did some deals, but we arent really friends. Moreover, its been a long time since weve had any deals. I dont know much about him, either.


    With just a few sentences, he hadpletely distanced himself from Old Gang.


    I thought to myself,Oh well, if youre not cunning, you cant do business.


    I didnt know what to say. I had to arrange my thoughts for a long time then patiently exined, Old Gangs fine. But theres a guy that owes him money. We cant reach him. I just called to ask if you know him.


    Ah, okay! The man calmed down. His voice became more arrogant. Who is it? If he owes Old Gang money, how could he still work in this tea business?


    I told him the name on the card. The man was surprised. Him? Old Song


    You know him? Could you please tell me how to contact him? I was excited.


    The guys voice grew somewhat sad. Its toote. He passed away.


    Hes dead already?


    I was shocked. When did it happen?


    Several days ago. He owed a lot of money to people, so he had no choice but tomit suicide. He jumped off a building. I heard that his wife was so heart-broken that she went crazy. Shes in a mental hospital now. What a pitiful woman. He sighed then continued, Since he is gone, everythings over. You should tell Old Gang to let go. We dont need to calcte the debt with a dead man.


    After the call, I saw Old Gang looking at me with dazed eyes. He looked like a lost child.


    Li Mazi returned with two beers. LittleBrother Zhang, take a sip before we get down to business.


    Drink! Drink! Drink! He only knows how to drink!


    I shot him a fierce nce.


    Its delicious


    Horse piss is delicious too. Why don''t you drink it? I scolded.


    Li Mazi held his beers and dashed back to the kitchen.


    Things were hard to solve now. That clock was too strange, and I knew I couldnt solve this alone. I contemted and decided to call for external support.


    Old Gang, I want to take the clock and meet a person. You should stay in the house with Li Mazi and wait for me, I said.


    Old Gang looked absentminded. But then, he suddenly jolted up. No, you cant take it away! His voice was strangely resolute.


    Dont worry, Ill bring it back. Dont you want to solve this problem? I advised.


    I dont, said Old Gang.


    At this moment, I believed that the otherworldly item was controlling him. If I didnt investigate this clock, the consequences would be unimaginable. I immediately called Li Mazi. Li Mazi, get your butt over here!


    Li Mazi ran over quickly. Little Brother Zhang, whats wrong?


    I pointed at Old Gang, Get a rope and tie him up.


    Eh?


    I shouted impatiently, Hurry up!


    Li Mazi moved agilely and got a rope from the kitchen. Little Brother Zhang, are you sure?


    I didnt have time to answer as Old Gang had pushed me aside and dashed toward his bedroom.


    Damn, this guys crazy! Li Mazi was frightened.


    I strode forward and grabbed Old Gangs shoulder. Old Gangs strength seemed to have been miraculously boosted. He was like a crazy bull that kept charging forward. I had to use all of my strength to pull him back before kicking his knee from behind.


    Old Gang screamed in pain. He stumbled and fell to the ground.


    I lifted my head and saw Li Mazi standing nearby with a dumbstruck expression. My rage surged. Are you enjoying the show? Come help me!


    Li Mazi came with the rope. We had to join hands to subdue Old Gang. We tied him up and threw him onto the sofa. Although we were two strong men, we still sweated a lot.


    How did he be so strong all of a sudden? said Li Mazi.


    The otherworldly item is controlling him, I exined. The otherworldly item this time is really hard to deal with. Im going to see a real expert. You stay here and watch him.


    Can I watch him alone? Li Mazi reluctantly pointed at his face.


    Are you scared? I sent him a provocative look.


    Im not scared. Its just that


    Before Li Mazi could finish, I stopped him. If you arent scared, its settled.


    I strode to the bedroom and found a piece of red cloth to cover the clock. Li Mazi chased after me. Little Brother Zhang, who are you going to see?


    Senior Shu, I answered.


    Him? Li Mazi couldnt ease his worries. That old man hates the fact that he cant dig an underground bunker and hide inside. Would he help you if you went to see him?


    Im just going to try and see. I looked at the red bag in my hand. Moreover, I have never encountered an otherworldly item like this before. I think that only Senior Shu might know something about it


    I didnt have enough time to exin it clearly to him and just patted Li Mazis shoulder. Take care of Old Gang. Dont let him do anything risky. Otherwise, our efforts will be in vain.


    Understood. Li Mazi nodded. If something bad happens to him, who should we ask for money? I don''t want to work for free.


    I was speechless and gave him a nce before leaving the vi.


    After changing public vehicles a few times, I reached the neighborhood where Senior Shu was staying. However, even after I had knocked on his door for a while, nobody came to the door.


    It seems Im not weed!


    I took a deep breath and decided to use my ace. You damn old ghost. If you dont open the door, Ill go to a printing shop and make a posting of your face and contact information. Im gonna post the ads on every wall and street, even on electric poles. I guess it will help your enemies find you


    Before I could finish talking, the door opened. If I wasnt swift enough to dodge, my nose would be gone.


    Senior Shu wore a loose mandarin jacket. With his cunning face, he looked the same as an evilndlord.


    I smiled to earn his favor, but it didnt work.


    Senior Shu shot me a cold nce. Its broad daylight. Why dont you do some business instead ofing to my house?


    Its because I missed you, Senior.


    Senior? Senior Shu sneered. Im not your Senior. Didnt you just call me a damn old ghost?


    Err I smiled sheepishly. Its just a misunderstanding. A misunderstanding.


    Senior Shu sighed. Since he didnt know what I wanted, he invited me to his house. Senior Shus house was still the same. It was dark and wasnt different from a rat cave.


    Senior Shu turned on the light and sat down on his chair. Then, hezily said, Kiddo, whenever youe to my door, youre up to no good! If you need to say something, do it quickly. Dont dy my business. Im going to y mahjong soon.


    Are you going out? Whos going to y mahjong with you? I was surprised.


    Senior Shu picked up his phone and knocked it on my head. Youre a young man, but you know nothing. Theres something called the Inte. Who would go out to y mahjong? What if the enemy finds me first?


    I quickly told him every detail I knew about the clock.


    Before I finished talking, his eyes twinkled. He was excited. Really? Is there a top-quality item like that? Show me!


    I opened the red bag in my hand and carefully handed the clock to Senior Shu.

 Chapter 387: Hand-Clapping-Ghost by the Door

    Chapter 387: Hand-pping-Ghost by the Door


    After receiving the clock, Senior Shu took out a magnifying ss and observed the item thoroughly. He then shook his head and said in a regretful voice, This is a foreign chiming clock from the Jiaqing period of the Qing dynasty. At that time, locust tree wood was very popr. This clock was made exquisitely with excellent craftsmanship, and its a rare treasure due to its old age. Unfortunately He held his magnifying ss above the character  carved at the top of the clock. This carved character is too obvious. Such an excellent treasure was damaged because of this.


    He put the clock on his bed. Then, with a strange expression, he said, Kid, Ive been working in this business for my whole life, but I have never epted the clock category of otherworldly items. Do you know why?


    Why is that? I asked.


    Theyre tricky and very difficult to solve, definitely not worth the effort. If you get it done, everyone will be happy. If you fail, in a less severe situation, you will lose your reputation. But in the worst case, you will lose your life. Senior Shu stood up and patted my shoulder. I know youre young and fear nothing, but you shouldnt go around to seek death like this. Youre not mature enough to do those things. Luckily, youre not my grandson. Otherwise, Id have to hit you thrice every day!


    I could onlyugh.


    You mentioned that you found that time was reversed. It should be because of the Yin and Yang Umbre in your house. This clock can trap you in the same day forever, but your Yin and Yang Umbre can break the Yin and Yang circle, which can somewhat counter the clock. I suddenly remembered that for this umbre, back then, your grandfather and I When Senior Shu reached this part, he suddenly stopped and shook his head.


    With a forced smile, he said, Im really a fool. Why do I keep thinking about the past?


    You mean that everything that has happened was a warning given to me by the Yin and Yang Umbre? I was a little skeptical.


    You can see it that way, but theres still a possibility that the clocks too powerful. To protect you, the Yin and Yang Umbre reversed time and brought you back. Senior Shu sighed. This clock is made of locust tree wood. Jiulin, let me ask you this, do you know the character for locust tree?


    It was rare for Senior Shu to call me by my first name, Jiulin. He was really unpredictable, though. Sometimes, he was funny, and at other times, he was a scumbag that you didnt want to deal with for the rest of your life. Thus, I both admired him and feared him.


    At this moment, I felt somewhat awkward as he had called me by my first name.


    Senior Shu pitched his voice. Speak! Are you mute or what?


    I pondered. Hmm, the character for locust tree () consists of the character for wood () and and


    Senior Shu gazed at me with his shifty eyes. And?


    And the character for ghost ().


    Exactly. Senior Shu nodded. His voice grew more excited. From ancient times until now, locust tree wood is considered a type of material that can bring bad luck as its name has the character for ghost in it. Ordinary people are afraid of this kind of wood because it often grows in graveyards. Theres a proverb that says, Do not nt mulberry in the front of the house, do not nt willow behind the house, and do not nt the hand-pping-ghost by the door. In this saying, the hand-pping-ghost is the locust tree.


    I learned something new and gave a nod.


    Senior Shu continued, Foreigners didnt understand our Chinese culture and thought that the locust tree was good wood material, so they used it to make wooden clocks. In the Qing dynasty, our folks thought that everything made by foreigners was precious. It cost more than one thousand gold coins to buy something from those foreign traders. If any family had something like this, they felt their backs were much straighter when they went out on the streets. No one cared what the item was made of.


    When he came to this part, he knocked on the clock. The locust tree is always favored by evil spirits and ghosts. Moreover, its a clock, which also brings bad fortune. Jiulin, youre dealing with aplicated case this time! I advise you to leave this case alone. Do not step into this murky puddle


    Although Senior Shu was somewhat despicable, I knew he would be honest with me. That was why I hade to his door for advice.


    After listening to him, I smiled then received the clock from his hand. Senior Shu, you know me. I dont have many good points, but Im very stubborn. Ive epted this case, so even if its the Great Wall, Im going to prick a hole into it! This case has aroused my interest. After listening to you, Im even more determined to solve this otherworldly item.


    Senior Shu angrily grabbed his cell phone and wielded it up as if he was about to hit me. However, in the end, he let out a reluctant sigh. You rascal. Being stubborn is now a good point? Youre still young, and you dont know how high the sky is. If you keep working this way, you will regret it soon.


    Rx. If I cant solve it, I still have you as my backup, right Senior Shu? I tried to tter him.


    But it didnt work. Senior Shu didnt look happy at all. Instead, he looked slightly sad as he said, Im just an old man who has a foot in the grave already. I can help you out this time, but what about the next time? And the time after that?


    His voice was full of helplessness and worry.


    I smiled at him. Dont worry. Please help this time. We shall see for the next time."


    Senior Shu got up and walked to the room in the back.


    Does he have something to subdue this clock? Im sure Senior Shu has many good treasures!


    I quickly caught up to him and followed him.


    Senior Shu went to his study room and sat in front of hisputer. The light from his screen shone over his face, which made him look quite scary.


    Senior Shu I called him, but Senior Shu didnt look at me and gently moved his mouse.


    Is there some document rted to this item on the Inte?


    I craned my neck to see. Senior Shu had logged into the Tencent game tform and started a fierce mahjong battle.


    Senior, please! Someones life is at stake, and you still have the mood to y mahjong? I cried out in disappointment.


    Senior Shu didnt move. It has nothing to do with me. Why should I pay attention? Ouch, this thing matched me with someone at the blue-diamond level.


    Senior Shu, can you give me some face, please? I implored.


    Senior Shu didnt bat an eye. Give you face? Do I even know you? Who are you?


    I took a deep breath. You really dont want to help me?


    Do you think you can win like that? What a blind idiot!


    I gritted my teeth and bent to pull out the power plug of hisputer. The screen turned ck immediately.


    Whats going on? Senior Shu was startled. When he found out that it was me, I felt his fisting at me. Although I was prepared for it, he still managed to hit my chest. I felt a twinge that made me scream.


    You stinky kid, I had almost won! Senior Shu moved quickly then pulled and twisted my ear. No one from your Zhang family is good. Your old dog grandfather discreetly performed some tricks when he couldnt deal with his opponent. You, kiddo, are the same as your grandfather. You all have ck hearts.


    His grip was fast, precise, and merciless. My ear felt so hot and painful that I had to beg him for mercy. Senior, my bad. I was wrong. Youre a big person, please forgive me. Ill tell you a method that will make you win all the games. Youll be the lord of the games!


    Senior Shu was moved. Really? Is there such a method?


    Yes, Im not tricking you!


    What method is that? Tell me. Senior Shu released my ear.


    You must tell me how to subdue this clock first, I said as I tried to bargain.


    Senior Shu frowned. You stinky kid. Are you trying to deceive me?


    Then, he extended his hand toward me again.


    I hurried to a far corner. Im not deceiving you. I will register an ount and enter the same mahjong room as you. I will then show you my tiles and y whichever tile you need. You will win all the games this way and level up fast.


    Senior Shus eyes twinkled. Howe I never thought of that?


    He thought for a while and then added, Make your friend Zhang Mazi or Wang Mazie too. Register an ount for him. The three of us will y together!


    At this moment, I had to agree with every condition of his. I nodded repeatedly. All right, we will listen to you.


    Senior Shu was satisfied with my respectful attitude. He sighed. Kid, youre no longer a rookie. Youve epted many cases these past years, and youve seen a lot of otherworldly items. Why are you still so insecure? Although this otherworldly item is powerful, it still has a weakness. As long as it has a weakness, you can subdue it. This clock is made of locust tree wood, and it must have absorbed arge amount of resentful energy. You need to solve its resentful energy to subdue it. You need to investigate the clock and learn its origin. Do not miss any trace or detail. Then, you will naturally find a way to solve it.


    Is it that simple? I sounded skeptical.


    Did he just give me a casual answer to get rid of me...?

 Chapter 388: Kidnapping

    Chapter 388: Kidnapping


    When I told Senior Shu about my doubts, he kicked my butt. Youre not satisfied with my answer? Even though otherworldly items are formidable, they are just items in the end. How could they be stronger than humans? Its not that Im making things look easy. Youre the one whos overthinking.


    All right, Im going to investigate its origin, I said.


    Senior Shu said, Before you go, remember to bring the Yin and Yang Umbre with you. As it has protected you once, it can do it again.


    Got it!


    Theres no need to worry. Although this clock is strange, its not the worst. If its still too hard and you need help, I can lend you a hand. Anyway, you know the rule. If I take action, youll have to pay me. Senior Shu cunningly smiled at me.


    I frowned.Ive experienced your pricey help before. I cant afford you!


    After parting from Senior Shu, I first went to my shop to fetch the Sirius Whip, the Yin and Yang Umbre, and the Peach Soul flower. Then, I rushed to Old Gangs house. Li Mazi was anxiously waiting for me at the entrance. After seeing me, he smiled. Little Brother Zhang, youre back!


    I muttered, Whats up? Did something happen to Old Gang?


    What could happen to him? If you didnte back, I would have died from holding my urine!


    What? I didnt understand.


    You asked me to watch Old Gang, right? I was afraid that something bad would happen to him, so I didnt dare to leave him even for a minute, exined Li Mazi.


    I followed Li Mazi to the house, who immediately dashed to the toilet. Old Gang was still tied up on the sofa, and his mouth was taped.


    Did Li Mazi think that we were kidnapping him? If Old Gangs neighbors saw him like this, they would call the police!


    I peeled the tape off Old Gangs mouth and found something stuffed in his mouth. I pulled it out. It was Li Mazis stinky sock!


    Because of the stinky sock, Old Gang almost had foam at the corner of his mouth.


    Li Mazi took his sweet time in the toilet. When he came out, he let out a sigh. I feel so good now!


    Why did you stuff your disgusting sock into his mouth? I asked.


    Li Mazi exined, Right after you left, he began to scream stuff like, Give me back my clock! or All men in this world are ungrateful! I was afraid that he would alert the police, so I reluctantly came up with this idea. These are the socks I bought, ten renminbi for four pairs, do you think I wanted to discard them like this?


    Even now, he only cares about his stinky socks!


    Wait a moment...


    Old Gang said that all men in this world are ungrateful? I seemed to catch the important clue.


    Li Mazi said, Yeah, his voice changed several times. It was hoarse for a while then gentle. I almost thought he was going to sing.


    Senior Shu was right. If I wanted to solve this clock, I needed to know its origin.


    I couldnt waste time here. I said, We must figure out the clocks origin first. I have to go. You stay here and watch Old Gang.


    Are you leaving by yourself? Li Mazi gawked.


    Yeah! I nodded.


    No, you cant! Li Mazi hurried to say, The otherworldly item this time is a little too strange. You shouldnt go alone. Iming with you.


    I was also a little worried about going alone, and although Li Mazi was useless, he could boost my confidence by a little bit. However, I nced at Old Gang on the sofa. But we need someone to watch Old Gang here.


    Li Mazi chuckled. Its fine. Theres a nice car in his garage. We will drive his car and let him sit in the back seat. I can apany you and watch him at the same time. Itll be killing two birds with one stone. We shouldnt dy any longer.


    Li Mazi, Ive known you for quite a long time, but this is the first time youve said something useful.


    Li Mazi said proudly, You still dont get it? Im the type of guy who starts a book but doesnt finish it or takes a path but doesnt see it through to the end. I am a person with endless potential; you just havent seen it all.


    Things were urgent now, so I asked Li Mazi to find Old Gangs key to the garage. We then opened his underground garage.


    The door slowly rolled up, and several shiny cars appeared in front of me. There was a BMW, a Mercedes-Benz, an Audi


    I finally understood why Li Mazi cared so much about Old Gangs problem. Old Gang was a real parvenu, and he onlycked the line, I have a lot of money,e swindle me! on his forehead.


    I chose a big, off-road Jeep. At the same time, Li Mazi came over with a bag of food. Woah! Old Gangs doing quite well. He even got a Hummer!


    Li Mazi and I smiled at each other. We then went back to the living room and brought Old Gang to the Jeep.


    When the car passed the entrance gate of the neighborhood, the security guy stopped us. He motioned us to roll down the window and looked at us skeptically. Is this your car?


    My buddys, I said.


    Your buddy? Whats his name? The security walked around the car to check. At first nce, he saw Old Gang tied up. He was frightened and backed off, shooting me a fearful look.


    Brother, its just a misunderstanding. I forced a smile.


    Before I had time to react, the man shouted at his walkie-talkie. Theres a problem at Gate 1. Please send reinforcements. One of our clients was kidnapped! Call the police!


    His voice was so loud that I didnt think he even needed to use the walkie-talkie to rm half of the residents in this vi neighborhood. Now, everyone knew that someone was kidnapped.


    Li Mazi sat in the co-driver seat. He looked at me and said, Little Brother Zhang, what should we do now?


    What do we do now? Of course, we have to run!


    I stepped on the elerator and bumped into the barrier. The barrier flew away, and the vehicle entered the main street like an arrow.


    After we safely got out of the neighborhood, Li Mazi used three words to describe me: bold, manly, and handsome!


    When the car entered the highway, I gave Li Mazi a gentle smile. When Old Gang wakes up, you should tell him that the maintenance fee for his car will be deducted from your payment.


    Li Mazi immediately changed the three words from before to: shameless, mean, and toxic.


    Li Mazi asked, Little Brother Zhang, if that security guard reports it to the police, well be charged for kidnapping. Would we be wanted nation-wide?


    I arched a brow. We can no longer back off and have to solve this problem caused by the clock. When Old Gang returns to his senses, he will have to exin the situation to clear us, and everything will be okay as it was just a misunderstanding. But if the problem isnt solved, you and I will y poker in jail for thetter half of our lives.


    Li Mazi retracted his neck. No, no. Since youre here, we can definitely solve it. Moreover I still have a son to take care of.


    Although Li Mazi wasnt reliable, he had always treated his son well.


    Silence fell in the car.


    A momentter, Li Mazi turned to check the scene outside the window and asked, Little Brother Zhang, where are we going?


    I threw him the business card Old Gang had given me. Were going to find this Song fellow. Old Gangs mind is no longer clear. Im afraid that only the original owner of the clock knows its origin!

 Chapter 389: Mrs. Song

    Chapter 389: Mrs. Song


    Li Mazi frowned and said, Didnt you say he passed away?


    Well, he had a wife, didnt he?


    But his wifes in a mental hospital! Do you think her condition will be better than Old Gangs? Li Mazi was skeptical about my suggestion.


    Even if shes staying in a mental hospital, we should go see her. Its our only option. I then punched Li Mazi. Youre the one who got us into this mess. Are you scared now? You want money so badly that you dont even want your life!


    Li Mazi giggled. Little Brother Zhang, although Im a little silly, Im a good assistant; weplement each other. Ill no longer provoke you. From now on, Im going to do whatever you tell me. Im under yourmand.


    I snorted and focused on driving.


    Li Mazi turned to check on Old Gang, who had been tortured all day long and was physically and mentally exhausted. He fell asleep despite being in a moving vehicle.


    Shortly after, Li Mazi also fell asleep.


    We drove the car for two days before we reached the gate of the mental hospital. We were exhausted.


    Li Mazi craned his neck out to check the ce. Little Brother Zhang, dont worry. Ive scanned the ce, and theres no police here.


    I unfastened the seatbelt and found a razor in the car. I was shaving myself when Li Mazi looked at me andughed. Little Brother Zhang, Ive just figured out that youre somewhat funny. As long as youre going to see some women, you will make sure you look presentable. Things are urgent, but you didnt forget to shave. Its a quality trick to earn the hearts of women. I already admire you!


    Shut up! Ive endured so many hardships because of you! I threw the razor to him. Im just afraid that the hospital will mistake me as one of their patients and capture me. I had to do this. Stay in the car and watch Old Gang. Im going out to see.


    All right. Li Mazi nodded in agreement.


    I stepped out of the car and tried to tten my wrinkled clothes. Then, I walkedfortably into the mental hospital.


    It was like what I had imagined. This ce didnt have strict controls. After I registered my visit with a young nurse and gave her some ambiguous winks, the nurse volunteered to take me to the patient room.


    Along the way, she even told me some information. Mrs. Songs a poor woman. Her husband jumped off the building and killed himself. She received a huge shock, which affected her mental stability. She often talks to someone invisible outside the window, but we cant understand what shes mumbling about. Oh right, how are you rted to Mrs. Song?


    Ah, no, we are not rtives. When I was in university, I received help from Mr. and Mrs. Song. When I heard that something really unfortunate happened to them, I ran here to see if I could help. Since I had been with Li Mazi for long enough, I had mastered the skill of fabricating stories.


    The nurse had good feelings about me, which showed across her face. Sigh, there arent many people like you in this society these days. Most people prefer not to return the favors theyve received.


    I smiled at her.


    The door to the patient room was pushed open. I saw a woman sitting on her bed, hugging her knees. She wore a loose patient uniform. Her hair was disheveled, and her face was pale.


    She looked at the window. When she heard my footsteps, she slowly turned her head toward me. Then, she turned back to the window.


    Her movements were mechanical, just as if she were a robot.


    It seemed the young nurse was used to it. She wasnt surprised. This is Mrs. Song. You can talk to her now. Im not going to disturb you anymore. If you need anything, please call me.


    I nodded and thanked her. The nurse left with a blush on her face.


    I slowly approached Mrs. Song. I called, Mrs. Song?


    It seemed she didnt hear me. She was still observing something outside the window.


    I felt somewhat embarrassed and cleared my throat. I have something I want to ask you. Do you know where your husband got this clock?


    While talking, I carefully unwrapped the clock. The ticking sound immediately permeated the silent room.


    Mrs. Song recovered as soon as she heard the ticking noises of the clock. She was surprised and looked at me. She then looked at the clock on the bed.


    Mrs. Song? I seized the chance and asked her, Do you know where your husband got this clock?


    Please. Give me some useful information.


    I didnt want to spend thetter half of my life in jail with Li Mazi.


    Mrs. Songs eyes moved around. She slowly craned her neck. It was as if her body was about to fall apart. She looked at me and creepily parted her mouth. She said only one word. Well...


    What? I wondered if I had heard correctly.


    This clock was taken from a well?


    Mrs. Song turned her head again and gazed at the door. She maintained her stiff pose and ignored me.


    For the next few minutes, no matter what I said or asked her, she was like a dead person. She didnt say anything.


    I felt a little worn out. I decided to get up and leave.


    When I passed by the counter, the young nurse waved at me and smiled. Will youe again tomorrow?


    Yeah. I gave her a nod and quickly left the hospital.


    When I got into the car, Li Mazi turned to me. Little Brother Zhang, how did it go? Did you get anything?


    I shook my head and grimaced. Nothing.


    Li Mazi was worried that I was upset and tried tofort me. Dont worry. We still have time.


    I forced a smile. Isnt that what I always say? Now, youve learned how to advise me.


    Im just applying what Ive learned. Li Mazi then pouted his lips. This gentleman here is having a major nap. Hes been sleeping for days.


    Its strange. I gently shook Old Gang. Old Gang! Old Gang!


    I called him several times, but he didnt react.


    Did he die? Li Mazi was scared. His face turned pale.


    Dont talk nonsense. His bodys still warm. Although I said that, I was also worried. I hurried to check his breathing. He was breathing steadily.


    Its okay. Hes just sleeping.


    I tossed the clock onto Li Mazisp, buckled my seatbelt, then started the car.


    Li Mazi picked up the clock, suddenly bringing it to his ear before checking the clocks face. He sounded surprised. Hey? What did you do? Why did the clock stop working?


    I immediately stepped on the brakes. Li Mazi almost hit the windshield.


    Little Brother Zhang, your driving is too dangerous. Did you buy your license or what? Li Mazi nagged.


    I didnt have the mood to retort and snatched the clock from him. It turned out that the clock wasnt working.


    When I was in the patient room, the clock was moving just fine. How could it stop in such a short moment?


    I didnt understand what was happening and scratched my head. I lifted my head and saw Old Gang sleeping in the rear-view mirror.


    Perhaps Old Gang isnt actually sleeping. It is as if time has stopped for him. Is that why hes been sleeping this whole time?


    I was scared by this thought.


    Li Mazi tapped my shoulder. Little Brother Zhang, are things okay? If you have something you need to think about, you should share it with me. Im willing to contribute my brain cells to help you!


    I shook my head and asked him to wrap the clock well. I started the car engine again.


    Li Mazi asked, Where are we going?


    To Mr. Songs neighborhood.


    Compared to Old Gangs neighborhood, Mr. Songs was a level lower. Although it was a luxurious apartment building, it was far less impressive than Old Gangs vi.


    Mr. Song had jumped off his balcony to kill himself, which was on the 27thfloor. There was no pain as his life was taken away the moment he hit the ground.


    Since it was a recent ident, the ce looked gloomy. Most of the residents in the apartment moved around to avoid the area of the ident. It made the ground underneath Mr. Songs apartment feel empty and lonely as if it was separated from this world.


    The blood on the floor had been cleaned, but Li Mazi still kept some distance from the area.


    I checked around and didnt find anything strange. I decided to go upstairs to check.


    The elevator stopped on the 27thfloor. I went to Mr. Songs apartment and gently knocked on the door.


    As expected, no one opened the door.


    Li Mazi hid behind me and said, Ones dead while the other ones in the asylum. Nobodys in the house. If the door opens, Im sure its a ghost...


    Before he could finish talking, the door opened! Li Mazi shrieked, jolting backward in fright.

 Chapter 390: The Odd Story of the Clock

    Chapter 390: The Odd Story of the Clock


    As soon as Li Mazi shrieked, we heard someone else scream.


    An old woman in her fifties was freaked out. With a pale face, she shakily craned her neck out of the door. W-Who are you looking for?


    Were friends of Mr. Songs. Wevee from another city. We just visited Mrs. Song in the hospital and thought that maybe someone was living here that needed our help. Thats why we are here. I stepped forward.


    Perhaps it was because we had said that we had just visited Mrs. Song in the hospital, but the in-looking middle-aged woman rxed her guard. She asked worriedly, Hows Mrs. Song? Did she get better? Im going to buy some food and then go see her.


    I politely gave her a nod. Shes okay. Its just that she keeps silent and watches the window all day. She doesnt talk much.


    The countryside woman sighed. Mrs. Song was like that even before Mr. Songs incident


    Li Mazi secretly pulled the back of my shirt and signaled that perhaps this woman knew something and that I should ask her for more information.


    I asked her, And you are?


    The countryside woman answered sincerely, My familys name is Chen. I am from the countryside and came to the city to look for work. I have worked as a housekeeper for Mr. Song for five years.


    Nice to meet you, Mrs. Chen. I gently greeted her.


    Mrs. Chen continued, After Mr. Song dered bankruptcy, he couldnt pay me, so I got fired. At that time, I was lucky that there was a family in the neighborhood that needed a nanny to take care of their kid. They invited me to work for them. On the day of Mr. Songs incident, I was so scared that I couldnt sleep. Although Mr. Song had a bad temperament, he usually treated Mrs. Song and me well. Nobody ever thought that he would do something like that The rim of her eyes turned red.


    I didnt have the skill tofort people, especially crying women. I felt a little anxious. Hes gone, and there is nothing we can do. You should cheer up a little.


    Mrs. Chen nodded and suddenly thought of something. Youvee all the way here, and I havent invited you to the house yet. Then, she held the door for us. Since Mr. Song went bankrupt, all the valuable items in the house had been confiscated. Now, its just an empty house. I heard that the courts going to auction this house, so I came to clean it for him. I worked for this family for years. This is thest thing I can do for them.


    Li Mazi and I thanked her then walked in. The room was a little messy, and the walls were in.


    Mrs. Chen sounded somewhat embarrassed. Theres nowhere to sit. We dont have water, either. Im really sorry.


    Its okay. Old Gang was still in the car, and I was worried about him. I decided to jump straight to the topic. Mrs. Chen, before all of this, Mr. Songs business was going well, right? Why did his situation turn for the worse all of a sudden?


    Mrs. Chen wore a reluctant face. I know nothing about Mr. Songs business. Sometimes, he discussed his business with Mrs. Song over dinners. Although I heard their conversations, I didnt understand much. But Mrs. Chen hesitated as though she was considering if she should disclose this piece of information or not.


    Mrs. Chen, we came here to see if we could help with anything. If you know something, just tell us. Dont be shy. I said sincerely.


    Li Mazi also nodded.


    Mrs. Chen sighed. Its not good to talk ill of the deceased. However, earlyst year, Mr. Song had an affair. He didnte home much, and starting from that time, Mrs. Song got sick and changed. Previously, she was a cheerful woman, but after discovering about the affair, she had a big fight with Mr. Song. Afterward, she turned even odder. I knew she was depressed and had to seek treatment. However, she was too stubborn, and I couldnt persuade her. I called Mr. Song, but he said he was too busy to talk to me.


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks.


    Mrs. Chen continued her story. Mr. Song had a tea farm in the countryside. He went there seven or eight times a year to check it. Last year, he collected a treasure from a farmer. He was so happy. He brought it home and put it in his safe. I have never seen that treasure. However, ever since it came to this house, many strange things started to happen


    Finally, she reached the most important part.


    Li Mazi and I pricked up our ears.


    Mrs. Chen said, From that day on, our rooms were filled with ticking sounds. It was low and then loud; noisy enough that we couldnt sleep. I didnt know if it was my imagination, but whenever I woke up at night, I couldnt find the switch on the wall. Moreover, the wall was strangely damp, and the rooms smelled of mold. I couldnt scrub the floor clean no matter how hard I tried; it was always covered with dust and dirt. Sometimes, we would see a big puddle of some ck liquid in the room. We had no idea where it came from. Oh right, you should see this. Mrs. Chen brought me and Li Mazi to a room. It looked like a bedroom.


    There was a ck stain on the white wall that was dripping down. It looked rather odd.


    It has increased in size since then. When I left the Song family, the stain wasnt so big. Mrs. Chen pointed at the ck thing. This started happening after that item arrived at this house. At first, I thought that the water was leaking from the apartment above. When we went to that apartment to check, there was nothing. We had asked the building management unit to check twice, and they still found nothing.


    While talking, Mrs. Chen seemed to have remembered something. She pulled my hand and said, This room used to be Mr. and Mrs. Songs master bedroom. The safe was here, too.


    In other words, the clock was kept in this room.


    I walked to the wall and reached out my hand to touch the ck stain. Although it had been there for a long time, I could still smell the foul odor. It seemed to be some stinky, muddy water.


    Mr. Songs business started to stagnate from that time. And I was fired. By the time I had to leave this family, Mrs. Songs condition was already bad. She didnt talk much and would just hum something strange. It was very scary. Sometimes, when she saw Mr. Song, she would open her bloodshot eyes wide and gaze at him. She kept saying that no man was worthy of trust. Mr. Song was scared and brought Mrs. Song to the hospital, but the hospital couldnt help her, either. I think that if Mr. Song had taken care of Mrs. Song earlier, she wouldnt have be like this


    After talking, she stood idle for a long moment before grabbing a broom and starting to clean.


    Thank you, Mrs. Chen, I nodded and thanked her. We wont bother you while you are working. Goodbye and please take care. When we have a chance, we will visit Mrs. Song again.


    Mrs. Chen sent us to the door. Youre good people. Since Mr. Songs incident, youre the first ones who havee to visit.


    Li Mazi and I smiled sheepishly. We strode toward the elevator.


    When we reached the ground floor, Li Mazi lowered his voice and asked, Little Brother Zhang, did you figure out anything?


    That clock is really strange. But Mr. Song got it from someone else. It seems While I was talking, we heard a loud noise behind us. Something had fallen and hit the ground.


    Feeling frightened, Li Mazi and I turned around to see.


    Not far behind us, we saw Mrs. Chen on the ground in a strange position. Her head was sted, and her brain was scattered. White bones jutted out of her skin like broken wooden sticks.


    Her eyes were still open, which gave her a frightening look!


    Since she wasnt far from us, her blood had sshed and stained the legs of our trousers. Although Id seen things that were even more horrible than this, I was scared. My face paled, and my heart raced. I lifted my head to look at the 27thfloor.


    A thick mass of dark clouds hovered above the building!

 Chapter 391: Ghost in the Elevator

    Chapter 391: Ghost in the Elevator


    I hastily ran back to the apartment building. The elevator was on the 12thfloor and stayed there for quite a long time. I gritted my teeth and kicked open the door to the emergency staircases, climbing my way up.


    I had never sweated this much in my life, nor had I climbed so many steps. I didnt know how long it took to reach the 27thfloor, but my legs were shaking when I got there. The door to Mr. Songs apartment was open. I gasped for my breath and calmed down. Then, I cautiously entered the suite.


    As soon as I entered the apartment, a stench overwhelmed me. I had no time to think and rushed to the balcony. The window was open. Although there was no wind, the window panels were moving, which created a rhythmic squeaking sequence. It somewhat sounded like the ticking sound of a clock.


    The walls of the balcony and the floor were filled with sticky mud mixed with dark green moss, which looked rather creepy.


    What the heck is this?


    Li Mazi finally caught up to me. His face was still pale.


    Little Brother Zhang


    Why did youe up here?


    You left me there facing a dead body, which isnt different from wanting my life! We should seize the time and get out of here. Someones dead, and Im sure people will call the police. If the police see us here, we wont be able to exin ourselves. Then, Li Mazi didnt wait for my answer and pulled my hand to usher me out.


    As the elevator started descending, Li Mazi suddenly screamed, Crap, our footprints are in that apartment. The police will start searching for us soon. Should we go back there and clean things up?


    I didnt expect you to be this meticulous in such a situation. No wonder they call you Careful Mazi


    Before I could finish, Li Mazi put on a smile that looked uglier than his crying face. Little Brother Zhang, how are you still in the mood to joke now?


    I was also tense, but what else could I do in this situation? I took a deep breath and tried to find some words to calm him down. But then, I caught that strange stench again in the elevator.


    Li Mazi, is it just me, or is there a strange smell in this elevator? I asked.


    Li Mazi shook his head. Its not just your imagination.


    He pointed at the elevator wall behind me. Brother, turn around and see for yourself.


    I turned and saw that some dark mud was oozing down the elevator wall.


    Little Brother Zhang! Think of something! Li Mazi was so tense that his voice shivered.


    I hastily hit the button, and we felt the elevator descend faster.


    Li Mazi was still restless. Little Brother Zhang! Do something!


    Shut up! In a moment like this, we had to keep our heads clear. I leaned against the elevator wall. The moment my hands touched the wall, it didnt feel like metal but cold bricks. I even felt the rough texture and the sticky, damp surface.


    Things were getting weirder and weirder!


    Li Mazis legs started shaking. Its over! Im going to die here! Who will take care of my son?


    Luckily for us, the doors to the elevator opened on the 6thfloor. Li Mazi and I didnt think twice before dashing out.


    We bumped into a well-dressed madam who held a little white dog. She lost her bnce and stumbled. When she lifted her head, we had already disappeared. She couldnt help but curse, You bastards! Are you rushing to the crematory? You didnt even look where you were going. Im wearing branded clothes from head to toe. You will have to work for your whole lives topensate me. You two bastards!


    We couldnt hear what she was yelling afterward. We moved like rockets from the sixth floor to the ground floor. A group of people had already surrounded Mrs. Chens dead body. Li Mazi and I didnt dare to look and rushed out of the building area.


    We still heard people discussing the ident behind us.


    Its very strange, isnt it?


    Her body position is the same as Mr. Songs!


    She was Mr. Songs housekeeper, right? Id seen her twice before


    Li Mazi and I sprinted as quickly as we could to the car. Without giving it a second thought, we drove away.


    After we had been driving for a long time, Li Mazi gradually pulled himself together. If we run like this all the time, we could win an Olympic medal for sure. Im sure I just ran faster than Usain Bolt.


    I took a deep breath. The stench still lingered in my nostrils.


    Li Mazi turned and checked on Old Gang, who was in the back seat. He shook the man twice, but he was still sleeping. Li Mazi sounded envious. This bastard. We ran so fast that our legs were shaking. Meanwhile, he was just here sleeping the entire time like a dead pig!


    I gripped the wheel so tightly that green veins bulged on the back of my hands.


    Li Mazi asked, Little Brother Zhang, what should we do now? If I may, we should leave this case alone. No one knows about it, so your reputation will be safe. If we get another shock like this, Im afraid I wont survive.


    After thinking about Mrs. Chens horrible death, I said through my gritted teeth, You want to run now? When you agreed to this deal, what did you have in mind? Someone has died already, do you really think you can run away from this? Even if you could hide in a turtle shell, do you think that the clock wont find you?


    Li Mazi looked at me glumly. What should we do then? We have no clues. We cant just run around like a headless fly.


    Who said we dont have any clues? Mrs. Chen disclosed something, didnt she? Mr. Song got the clock from a farmer who works at his tea farm. Well go to that farm.


    Li Mazi frowned. But wheres that tea farm? We cant visit each farm to figure it out.


    When you have free time, you should shake the rust off your brain. Dont just leave your brain to rot. Even if a person has died, they definitely left some traces while they were alive. Mr. Song was from this area, which means that many people knew him. I drove to the city, found a good-looking tea shop, and parked the car outside.


    Im going inside to ask, I said to Li Mazi as I got out of the car.


    As I had expected, as soon as I mentioned Mr. Song, the shopkeeper nodded. Yeah, he was a big shot, but Im sure he didnt know me. Anyway, Ive heard about him as Im part of this business.


    Do you know where his tea farm is? I asked.


    Of course, I do. The shopkeeper smiled. Im not gonna lie to you, but were just a small business family. We can only take pieces of food from the slits between those big shots teeth. They care about quality, so they only collect the young leaves on the top to make high-quality tea. We dont have much capital, so we have to build a good rtionship with the tea farmers. They will sell us the cheaper tea leaves.


    But when I asked him for the address, he nced at me suspiciously. Sir, every business has its own rules. Youre asking me for an important address, and I cant give it to you just like that. Were just a small shop, and it''s already hard to live. If you im my supply, I will have to close my shop


    Oh, dont worry. I dont work in the tea business, I said sincerely to assure him.


    Even if you say so, you can still take my supply, and I cant even call the police! The shopkeeper was resolute.


    Feeling helpless, I searched my pockets and collected one thousand renminbi. I ced the money on his counter. I want to buy that address from you. Will you sell it to me?


    His eyes moved around. This price is a little low.


    I collected my money on the counter. Forget it. Im going to ask the shop over there.


    The shopkeeper held my hand. Oh, sir, dont be in such a rush!


    He took out a piece of paper and wrote down an address. Here you are. But you should never tell anybody that I gave you the address. Otherwise, I wont be able to survive in this business.


    I agreed and left with the note.


    As soon as I got in the car, Li Mazi asked, Did you get it?


    Of course, I rose my brows contentedly. If I do something, Im definitely going to make sure it seeds.


    Li Mazi nodded. Right, right!

 Chapter 392: Old Liu

    Chapter 392: Old Liu


    Before nightfall, we reached the vige that was written on the paper.


    Under the twilight, the tea gardens looked full of vitality. Inside the gardens, many people were seizing the time to pick more leaves before it became too dark. After all, the best time to pick tea leaves was short-lived. If they let things be for one night, the leaves could be too old.


    Li Mazi watched through the window. Little Brother Zhang, it looks like an endless tea garden. We should get out of the car to ask around.


    Dont rush. I drove the car into the vige then stopped. You stay in the car and take care of Old Gang. Im going out to see.


    Li Mazi made a face. Why do I have to stay behind again? Hes sleeping like a dead pig. Whats the point of taking care of him? Little Brother Zhang, can I go with you? Its so irritating to stay in the car.


    I sighed and nodded as I didnt have any other solution.


    Li Mazi and I walked around the vige and spotted a dirty storage building. A bare-chested, burly man sat by a big tree. He was ying with his phone.


    Li Mazi and I walked over and greeted him. Good evening, brother!


    Before I could ask, the big man impatiently pointed at the storage. Get the stuff yourself and bring it out here to check.


    No, youve misunderstood us. Were not here to buy the goods, I said politely.


    The man lifted his head and shot us a nce. Youre not here to buy our products? Then, why did youe here? Are you here to seek trouble?


    Li Mazi was enraged. How could you talk to people like this?


    I pulled him back by the shoulder. Big brother, I want to ask you something.


    The man stared back at his phone screen. Im mute. I cant talk.


    Li Mazi shouted, Didnt you just talk?!


    Only when Im happy. The sturdy man gave Li Mazi a discontented nce. Damn pockmark-faced, do you wanna fight? Do you believe that I can just shout once and the entire vige wille to beat the crap out of you? Im sure even your mother wont be able to recognize you after were done with you.


    I knew he wasnt lying. In remote viges like this, people were always very close. They didnt even treat the police nicely.


    Li Mazi stopped talking.


    I thought about it and took one hundred renminbi from Li Mazis pocket. I held in front of the man. Big brother


    Shoot, you still havent When the man saw the money, he stopped cursing. What do you want?


    I just want to ask you something. If you can help me, you can have this money, I said.


    The burly man snatched the note from me and checked it under the weak beams of the twilight. After he confirmed that it wasnt a fake bill note, he held a warm smile on his face. Brother, just ask! I dont mean to brag, but theres not a single person or thing I dont know in this vige. Youre asking the right man here.


    Li Mazi pouted and threw the man a disdainful look.


    Brother, I heard that theres a tea farm in your vige, I said.


    The man nodded. Yeah, weve got several tea farms here. Whose farm youre asking about?


    The bosss name is Song.


    Oh, him! The sturdy man nodded. Didnt hemit suicide by jumping off a balcony?


    The man then lowered his voice. Because of this incident, our vige was troubled. That bastard owed a lot of money here. Hes dead, but Old Liu isnt doing good.


    Whos Old Liu? I caught onto the clue.Could he be the farmer Mrs. Chen had gotten the lock from?


    Old Liu was Mr. Songs business partner. Hes in charge of the tea farm. Things were very good at first. Old Liu watched the tea garden and picked the leaves during the season. Tea leaves picking is a two-or-three-day job. The longer it takes, the older the leaves are. If the leaves are old, they cant be sold at a good price. Old Liu doesnt have many family members, so he had to hire people. It cost a lot to hire people, you know. Old Liu was waiting for Mr. Song to pay him so he could pay the workers. Now that Mr. Song is gone, all the workers havee to Old Lius house to trouble him. Hes miserable, and he might just hang himself. The more the burly man talked, the more excited he became. He was a talkative man.


    Hows the rtionship between Mr. Song and Old Liu? I asked.


    The man contemted. Not bad. I heard that Old Lius third son found a treasure from a well and sold it to Mr. Song. Everybody said that Old Liu was ripped off. That thing could be sold for a better price in the city. Old Liu exined that Mr. Song had treated him well, so it wasnt a big matter that he took a little loss. But this time, hes suffered a big loss.


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. That treasure had to be the clock!


    Li Mazi was a little flustered and asked, Is that treasure a clock?


    How did you know that? The man looked at Li Mazi and became more cautious. He scanned us. What do you do, after all?


    I fabricated something. Were reporters from a newspaper. When we heard about the incident, we thought we could dig up a story. Thats why wevee here to see if we could find some information.


    Ah. The man eased his worry.


    We asked him for the exact location of Old Lius house. Before it waspletely dark, we followed the directions to find Old Lius ce.


    When we found it, we saw an ill-lit, shabby, mud-walled, tile-proofed courtyard house. A hungry buffalo was mooing from inside the yard.


    Li Mazi looked and said, I guess its here.


    We went to the messy courtyard and called, Hello, is this Uncle Lius house?


    An old mans voice answered us. Who are you looking for?


    Li Mazi and I took the risk and entered the house. There was only one table in the middle of the messy room, which held some green onions and raw sauce.


    An old man was seated at the table, drinking. However, he still looked healthy and strong. He shot us a drunken nce. Who are you looking for?


    Uncle Liu, were reporters from a newspaper. We heard that your third son found a treasuretely. Wevee to interview you. Li Mazi copied the story I had fabricated.


    Old Liu frowned and scolded, Go away! Go away! No interview! Get lost!


    Li Mazi didnt expect to be treated this way and threw me a quizzical look. I deliberately sat opposite Old Liu and calmly ced the bag from my hand onto the table.


    Do you recognize this?


    Old Liu anxiously looked at the bag.


    I gently unwrapped the stic cover and then the fabric, which revealed the clock.


    It was ticking.


    Li Mazi gawked. Little Brother Zhang, i-its moving again!


    Old Liu was surprised. H-How could this be in your hands? Who are you?


    Who we are is not important. I sneered, Your third son found this clock, right? Wheres he?


    When Old Liu heard me mention his third son, the brim of his eyes reddened. Not here. Hes gone.


    I was shocked. When did it happen?


    A few months ago. He drowned in a muddy puddle. Old Liu took a shot of strong liquor. He found this clock and hoped to use it to get a huge fortune. We had a fight when he found out I had sold it for a cheap price to Mr. Song


    He drowned in a muddy puddle...


    Mr. Song and Mrs. Chen died due to some ck mud. Did the three of them have any rtionship?


    Do you know where your son got this clock? I didnt dare to linger and asked the most important question.

 Chapter 393: The Past Events

    Chapter 393: The Past Events


    Old Liu contemted then answered, In a dry well behind the mountain. ording to the old people in our vige, a family lived behind the mountain a long time ago, but nobodys living there now. The house copsed, which left nothing but a dry well. My third son wasnt a hard-working man, and he always wanted to be rich without putting in any effort. He thought he could dig up some treasure there, and I could do nothing to stop him. He went there with some tools, and he found that clock Old Lius face looked both loving and hateful. If it werent for that clock, my third son would be still alive.


    Then, he began to cry.


    The death of ones children was the most sorrowful experience to get over in this world. Old Liu was drunk and soon cked out. Li Mazi helped me to carry him to the bed and made himfortable. I wrapped the clock and left Old Lius house. We decided to stay in the car tonight. Tomorrow, we would go to the dry well to see if we could get any clues.


    The vige was dead silent at night, and we didnt even hear the crickets singing or the toads croaking. The sky looked gloomy as the moon was behind a big mass of dark clouds. Li Mazi was bored and said, It seems the sky is upset tonight. Its about to rain.


    When we got into the car, Old Gang was still sleeping. Li Mazi gritted his teeth while I nced at the clock. I didnt hear the ticking sound; the clock wasnt working at this moment.


    It seemed my assumption was correct. Old Gangs time was stopped by the clock. That was why he had been sleeping the entire time.


    Although it was a spacious Jeep, it wasnt thatfortable. Li Mazi and I squeezed in the seats and closed our eyes. I was tired, so I fell asleep rather easily.


    But then, I had a strange dream. I saw some events, which were like the scenes of a movie. The scenes shed before my eyes. Soon after, the scenes and images started shing very quickly, which made me gasp for my breath.


    I woke up with sweat all over my face.


    I smelled a strange stench, and I was frightened to discover that mud had filled the car. It reached my neck. I didnt need to think twice and tried to open the door.


    But no matter how hard I tried, I couldnt kick it open. I hurried to pull Li Mazi to my side, finding that the mud had covered his face.


    If things continue this way, everybody will die here!


    I made my way through the mud but couldnt find anything to hold onto.


    I forced myself to clear my head. Then, I remembered the clock. The time turbulence happened after Old Gang had dropped the clock. I hurried to find the clock and threw it against the windshield.


    The impact created a loud noise, like a sharp twinge in my head. I felt as if I was inside a vast sea. I felt so small, and my body was slowly sinking. Eventually, I was submerged in the mud.


    When I regained consciousness, I saw that I was in a dark space, and the horrid smell of the muddy water permeated my nasal cavity.


    I instinctively opened my mouth to breathe and thought I would have to swallow mud, but it was actually fresh air.


    I was no longer in the car.


    I carefully cleaned the mud in my nostrils and moved around. The space around me was empty. Cautiously, I took a few steps and sensed a damp wall.


    The wall was curved, and moss had upied the surface of the bricks.


    It was a dry well, and I was inside it.


    I tried to calm down and moved around to see if I had anything that could create light.


    However, it was unfortunate that I had nothing except the clock. My Sirius Whip, my Yin and Yang Umbre, and the Peach Soul nt were left in the car.


    I felt that I would learn the truth tonight.


    I took the clock and carefully unwrapped the stic bag. Then, I removed the red fabric. A dazzling light bloomed from the dent in the clock.


    The ticking sounds became clear and loud as if it was right in my ears. I even heard the mechanic gears inside the clock moving. I also saw the clocks hands rewinding fast.


    Then, the image in front of my eyes changed!


    It was a bright and sunny summer day. A man wearing a queue was rummaging through his pocket for a key. He was wearing popr clothes from the Qing dynasty and wanted to open a remote courtyard.


    He didnt look ugly. However, lust had upied his face. At first nce, I knew he wasnt a good person.


    Soon after, the door was unlocked. An attractive woman was inside the house. She was watching herself in a mirror. He rushed toward her and hugged her from behind. Dear, guess what I got for your birthday.


    The womans pretty eyes sparkled. What is it? Show me.


    The man held the red fabric bag high but didnt give it to her. The woman didnt want to wait and snatched the bag from him. She opened it and saw a brand-new western chiming clock.


    Wow, its an item from those foreigners. Its really rare. How did you get this?


    The man sounded content. It took a lot of effort. But now that I see your smile, I can bear more hardships.


    Then, his hand groped under her clothes. The woman blushed instantly. Youre a married man, and youre secretly keeping me here. Arent you afraid that your wife will figure it out?


    Dear, hold on for a while. After a few months, I will divorce that tigress and marry you. Then, I can proudly take you home. The woman was angry, but the man charged forward. His moves were bolder as he started to untie the knots on her clothes.


    It seemed I was invisible. No one could see me. I took a deep breath and went closer. However, as soon as I started to approach them, the image changed.


    It was a scorching summer day again, but the sky looked heavy, and people found it hard to breathe. It seemed it was about to rain.


    The woman was sitting in the courtyard. Her long, ck hair flew in the wind. She mumbled, Its been three months, and he hasnte to see me. Did he forget about me? No, no, he said he would marry me


    I knew this woman hadnt showered in many days. She didnt evenb her hair and just let it hang loosely onto the ground. A sour, moldy stench emitted from her.


    She seemed to have lost her mind and hugged the chiming western clock. She gently stroked it.


    Her movements were gentle and apanied the ticking sounds from the clock.


    All of a sudden, the courtyard gate was kicked open.


    A well-dressed, fat woman stormed in. She was apanied by a group of strong, malicious-looking servants. When she saw the young woman, she was so angry that her eyes bulged. Dong Xiaowan, you dared to seduce my husband! Ive got you now.


    The woman was flustered and tried to find her man from the crowd.


    Sir, help me!


    But the man was shaking as he hid behind the fat woman. He didnt dare to answer.


    This toyboy eats in my house, stays in my house, and even stole money to keep you as his mistress. Last month, I didnt give him any money to use. As such, he knelt in front of me and begged for mercy. He sold you to me. Haha! Look, is this the man you love? The fat womanughed. Guys, this slut likes to seduce other peoples husbands. Today, Im going to let her serve some husbands!


    The servants behind her sneered despicably. They stormed toward the young woman like a pack of hungry wolves.


    Honey, its not good to treat Miss Dong like this. The man couldnt bear to see it.


    If you dare to stop them today, leave my house. I wont give you a dime! scolded the fat woman.


    The man was scared and turned his head around as if he didnt see anything.


    At first, the woman screamed for help. But when she saw that the man she loved had turned his face away from her, she was desperate. She no longer screamed and just let the servants tear her clothes.


    The courtyard was quiet, which set off the ticking noises of the clock.

 Chapter 394: Time Does Not Stop for the Beauty

    Chapter 394: Time Does Not Stop for the Beauty


    Although I knew everything was just a fantasy, it looked so real. I was angry and clenched my fists tightly. That man was absolutely despicable!


    For the sake of money, he had sold his lover, the woman he had made many promises to.


    After the servants satisfied themselves, they left, leaving the disheveled woman with bruises and scratches all over her body. Even so, she still held the clock tightly against her chest.


    The fat woman pointed at her and shouted, All right, if you like this clock that much, Ill bury it with you.


    Then, she turned to her husband and threw him a re. Push your little lover down the well, and Ill forgive you


    The man hesitated for a while. Then, he asked the servants to drag the woman to the well and threw her inside. Since he was afraid that she might have survived the fall, he carried over some big rocks and dropped them into the well.


    The womans body was now a dough of blood and flesh. Her limbs twisted and broke, but she didnt feel any pain. There was only a grudge in her heart now. She used thest bit of her strength to scratch the clock with her fingernail


    Rumble!


    Thunder crashed and rain fell. The entire dry well was now filled with dark mud. Only the sound of the clock kept herpany.


    All of a sudden, everything in front of me disappeared. I found myself in the middle of the well one more time.


    Then, the ground underneath me started to shake, and a twisted, deformed arm stuck out from the ground!


    Another arm followed right after. It seemed the owner of this pair of arms was trying to get out of the bottom of the well.


    I lowered my head and saw Miss Dong, the woman I had seen in my dream. She was crawling out of the soil.


    Miss Dongs neck was broken. Although blood covered her face, she stared at me with fierce eyes.


    She slowly crawled toward me, dragging her several-meter-long hair along. I knew that she was the evil soul that dwelled in the clock.


    I was scared and instinctively retreated until my back touched the cold wall of the well. She moved slowly toward me.


    I saw many bones piercing through her flesh and skin. Those white bones looked strangely scary.


    Eventually, she reached me and grabbed my legs. Using my legs for support, she crawled onto my body


    It felt as if a giant centipede was creeping onto my body. Eventually, she tried to get up and snatched the clock from my chest.


    Tik tok! Tik tok!


    When the clock was returned to its rightful owner, the sounds it made were pleasant to the ear. At this moment, the ground under my feet felt so soft, just as if I was in the middle of a muddy swamp. Even though I had used all my strength to wiggle around, I couldnt escape.


    Miss Dong looked at me with her malicious eyes, sneering. In the meantime, the mud submerged my legs and then my shoulders.


    Miss Dong spoke in a hoarse voice, You men are all heart-breakers. None of you can be trusted. All men in this world all deserve to die


    Heydy! Someone cheated on you, but that doesnt mean that you should take it out on others!


    Why do I deserve to die?


    Although I wanted to debate with her, my mouth was somehow zipped.


    Am I going to die tonight? Right here, in this well?


    At this moment, a dazzling light shone from above. Miss Dong was scared and let out an ear-splitting shriek. She hid in the corner.


    Then, an umbre slowly descended.


    My Yin and Yang Umbre hase to save me!


    I grabbed the handle and felt a warm flow of energy rush to my body.


    The Yin and Yang Umbre could bnce the Yin and Yang energies. It was the best defensive item in this world.


    Since my body had been controlled by Miss Dong, the Yin and Yang Umbre was here to help me resist her Yin energy.


    Miss Dong crouched in the corner and gritted her teeth, ring at me. All of a sudden, she stormed toward me and shed at me with her sharp, long fingernails. I didnt have time to think and kicked her away.


    Bang!


    She hit the wall, and I hurried to pick up the clock in the mud.


    Miss Dong screeched horribly, looking extremely sad.


    In desperation, she hid in the shadows and cried her heart out.


    Sigh, shes really pitiful.


    I held the clock and hesitated for a moment. Then, I gently tossed it to the ground toward Miss Dong.


    Miss Dong reached her deformed fingers and gently stroked the clock. She mumbled to herself, I hope that every second this clock ticks by, you and I will have each other. We will never leave each other again.


    Disgusting white maggots wormed out of her mouth, but her expression was exceptionally focused.


    Time seemed to have returned to that scorching summer day. It was the Jiaqing period of the Qing dynasty. A man with a queue opened the gate to Miss Dongs courtyard and shook the western, chiming clock in front of her. He told her, I hope that every second this clock ticks by, you and I will have each other. Well never leave each other again.


    The sweet words were there, but the promise to be with each other forever didnt exist.


    Miss Dong now had a deformed face and was hurt by the big rocks he had thrown into the well. Although she looked gruesome, her eyes were tender.


    I couldnt stand this and said to her, If time can rewind, you should hope not to meet that scumbag again.


    Miss Dong was surprised and lifted her head to look at me. She looked puzzled.


    I contemted then said, If you hadnt known him, you would have had a peaceful life until you grew old. Perhaps you would have found a man who really loved you and lived happily for the rest of your life.


    Miss Dong lowered her head for a while. Then, sheughed mournfully.


    Humans are like this. Although we think that we have experienced all kinds of things, in the end, we still fall victims to love.


    Miss Dong gently raised her hands and handed me the clock.


    At this moment, I knew she had let it go. I didnt need to do anything. She had let go of the grudge in her heart.


    I found that among the evil souls I had met during my career as an otherworldly merchant, she was the most friendly one


    Was she thinking of her previous self at this moment? Her beautiful, innocent self before the terrible events happened?


    I received the clock and saw that the deep scratch had disappeared.


    The clock had stopped working. And, it would never move again.


    When I lifted my head again, Miss Dong had disappeared. She had left me alone in this muddy, dry well. I sighed and took out a cigarette box from my pocket. I lit up a cigarette as a memorial service for her.


    Buddha once said, Because of love, people worry. Because of love, they hate. One who doesnt love will not worry, nor hate.


    If time could be reversed, I hoped that Miss Dong could live a normal, happy life. I hoped that she would never meet those scumbags.


    At this moment, a light shone from above. I heard Li Mazi shouting. Little Brother Zhang! Little Brother Zhang! Are you down there?


    I nodded. Yeah, Im here.


    Merciful Buddha. Deities everywhere, thank you for protecting us! Li Mazi shouted.


    I couldnt help butugh.


    Why are you still standing there? Pull me up! I then yelled.


    Li Mazi said, You need help? Im going to get some strong men from the vige!


    I was speechless. Why dont you get down and help me?


    Li Mazi was thick-faced. Oh I have to stay here to support you. Its very important. I cant ask other people to do this!


    You bastard!


    Shortly after, a rope was thrown to me. I tied the rope around my waist and slowly climbed out of the dry well.


    Li Mazi and another burly man were sweating hard. On the way back to the tea farm, the man bargained with Li Mazi. Give me fifty more. I came from far away to rescue him. One hundred renminbi is too little.


    Why are you raising the price now? We agreed that I would pay you one hundred, right?


    I helped you pull him up!


    Li Mazi was annoyed. He had to pay the man another fifty renminbi. Then, he said, Little Brother Zhang, how did you deal with that otherworldly item? You didnt bring anything with you. Did you subdue it with your bare hands?


    I didnt answer Li Mazi but asked, At Old Gangs age, he must have a wife and children, right?


    Yeah, of course. His sons studying abroad, and his wife is with his son to take care of him.


    I realized what happened. Is he living alone? No, he has a mistress, doesnt he?


    Li Mazi held an ambiguous smile. Were all men. Do you need to ask?


    So its true. I sighed. That clock had huge resentful energy. It hated cheating men the most. Mr. Song did cheat, and so did Old Gang.


    What about Mrs. Chen? Did she cheat, too? Li Mazi couldnt believe it.


    Who knows. Perhaps, only she knew.


    When we returned to the tea farm, Old Gang had woken up. He sat in a daze by the gate of the storage. When he saw me and Li Mazi return, he feebly got up. Mazi, why am I here?


    Li Maziughed. There are many things you need to know. When we return home, Ill tell you.


    The man who had watched the storage wanted to earn more money from Li Mazi, so he purposely cooked a pot of instant ramen to feed us. He even washed the muddy off-road Jeep.


    While he washed the car, Li Mazi asked, What happenedst night? I was sleeping, and when I woke up, Old Gang and I were soaked in stinky mud. I didnt see you anywhere, so I knew that something had happened. I didnt think twice before spending money and having people search for you. What do you think? Im your good brother, right? Are you touched?


    You should stay far away from me. Im going to throw up, I retorted.


    The clock sat quietly on the front seat of the off-road vehicle.

 Chapter 395: The Female Ghost at Wuhan University

    Chapter 395: The Female Ghost at Wuhan University


    Lately, Li Mazi and I had been ying mahjong on the Tencent tform with Senior Shu.


    There was no regard for day or night. As long as Senior Shu felt an itch on his hands, he would call us and ask us to help him.


    We could only me ourselves for asking for his help back then!


    Senior Shu looked cunning and savvy, but when he yed mahjong, he sucked. Although Li Mazi and I were on his side and gave him the mahjong tiles he needed all the time, he couldnt always win against his opponents.


    This led him to angrily pull out his Inte cable many times.


    Li Mazi secretly texted me. Little Brother Zhang, it seems Senior Shu is just a rookie at ying mahjong.


    Not even a week had gone by, and Senior Shu had lost all of the points he had umted in the game. He was so mad that he dered that he would quit gaming. Sure enough, he didnt call us for the next few days.


    As I had free time, I was sitting with Li Mazi at my shop front. We were drinking tea, eating watermelon seeds, and chatting.


    Besides thanking us, Old Gang had paid us two million renminbi and gifted us a box of the best Yuzen Longjing tea in the market. It was the right time to taste the tea.


    Li Mazi, it seems that youve been behavingtely. You havent troubled me these days. I took a sip.


    Li Mazi shook his head. His expression turned serious. I felt that you were very tired. Being your generous friend, I decided to give you a vacation and refuse all the iing deals.


    Speak clearly. I shot him an indifferent look.


    Li Mazi wore a long face and slumped on his chair. Little Brother Zhang, this business of ours doesnt have an off-season or high season, right? Why is it always that when were dealing with a case, someone keeps calling us for a new case? And when were done, no one calls us for quite a long time. I dont even see a rat roaming around the shop!


    I cussed, Do you have a pig brain or what? If no onees to our door, why dont you go to the countryside for a treasure hunt?


    Li Mazi was excited and jolted up. I know, right? These days, we do nothing but kill time in the shop. Since youve also experienced this exciting life, dont you feel an itch whenever you stay idle?


    Nonsense! I shouted at Li Mazi. Im worried that Li Meng and Ru Xue will suffer without you.


    Li Mazi made a face as if he saw right through me. Is that so? Im so thankful for your concern.


    Thank you your sister!


    Li Mazis bright eyes kept staring at me. I had to quickly order lunch to divert his attention.


    When I returned, Li Mazi was sitting in front of myputer, his expression especially vulgar.


    Not good!


    Li Mazi, are you watching some inappropriate website on myptop again? Last time, you didnt clear the browsing history, and you made Yin Xinyue misunderstand me. Sigh, your bad habits never change.


    I paced forward, ready to settle this ount with him.


    Li Mazi pointed at the screen and said, No, no, no. Im looking at proper stuff.


    What? Really? I didnt buy it. Then, I saw a stickied post in our citys forum, which caught my attention. It read, Paranormal activities taking ce at Wuhan University. Looking for an expert. Please help!


    Li Mazi smacked his tongue and guffawed. Little Brother Zhang, theyre looking for an expert. Arent you one? See, the business deal hase to our door


    I ignored him and clicked on the post.


    It was posted by a person nicknamed Shiso. ording to his post, a female student named Li Xiaoling had hung herself in the girl dormitory of Wuhan University.


    Under pressure from society, there were always students who did stupid things. This wasnt something new. However, it was strange that seven days after the girl killed herself, terrifying events started to take ce at Wuhan University. Every day, after midnight, a student would have their lips sewed up!


    The victim would have the upper lip and lower lip stitched together, which caused them to bled horribly.


    When the first lip-sewing incident happened, the universitys leaders didnt pay much attention to it as they thought that it was a dispute between the students in the dormitory; they just punished some of the roommates. However, after the second and third cases, the university found it very strange. They tried toe up with an exnation, but they couldnt calm the students down.


    Feeling helpless, the university had to hire a securitypany to protect and patrol the dormitory every night. The Student Council also checked the rooms every night. However, the horrible lip-sewing events still happened.


    ording to Shiso, the lip-sewing events all happened at night time, which was around the time Li Xiaoling hadmitted suicide.


    The students that had their lips sewed didnt feel it at first. It was as if they were drugged. They slept through the night, and when they woke up in the morning, they found that their mouths were sewed up! Then, the sharp pain flooded in, which made them want to scream. However, when they screamed, the thread that sewed their mouths would rip their flesh, causing blood to spurt everywhere.


    It was so strange.


    Shiso, the user that had posted the thread, also said that it was very unusual and that it didnt seem like the work of a human. Perhaps it was rted to Li Xiaolings death as the lip-sewing idents started happening the week after her death. It did not seem to be a coincidence.


    As such, they made this thread on the forum, hoping that some expert would help.


    Little Brother Zhang, what do you think about it? Interesting, isnt it? I closed the website, and Li Mazi immediately craned his head toward me.


    I stretched myself. Somewhat.


    Li Mazi sniggered. We dont have anything to do, so how about we stretch our sore legs a little? Mosquito legs also have meat. Who knows, perhaps we can even earn a nice sum from the school!


    I nodded.


    Li Mazi hurried to contact Shiso, the one that had posted the thread. He made an appointment to meet them, too. It didnt even take him half an hour to do that.


    I felt a little regret that Li Mazi wasnt a diplomat.


    As we had nothing to do, we changed clothes and arrived at a coffee shop near Wuhan University one hour before the meeting time.


    Since it was opposite of Wuhan University, most of the guests in the coffee shop were students. We listened to their conversations. They seemed to be discussing the lip-sewing horror story.


    Its really scary! I saw it once with my own eyes. We closed our doors at night, but the next day, my roommates lips were sewed together. We didnt know how or why. The thread was ck and rough. He now has dozens of holes in his mouth. His entire nket was stained with blood.


    Im scared to go to school. If it happens again, I think Ill go crazy.


    Ive made preparations to take some days off. Im too afraid that it will happen to me. After all, I knew Li Xiaoling


    Shut up! Are you crazy? Why did you mention her name? Dont you know that shes a ghost now!


    Oh God, oh God. Dont talk about it anymore. My skin is crawling.


    The students stopped discussing it. They paid then left in a hurry.


    It seemed that the paranormal activities at Wuhan University hadnt stopped. However, it was weird that we couldnt find any news articles about this.


    Reporters were always craving for buzzing news, right?


    This story was strange and mysterious. They could have a lot of things to write about. Why did they act as if they saw nothing?


    Shiso arrived, and I hoped he would clear my doubts.


    He was in his early twenties, had a fairplexion, and wore ck-rimmed sses. He wore a pair of jeans and looked like a nerd. After seeing Li Mazi and me, his eyes sparkled with doubt.


    He gingerly sat on the chair and asked, Are you the experts that contacted me through the forum?

 Chapter 396: Red Dress

    Chapter 396: Red Dress


    Li Mazi became enraged and mmed the table. What do you mean?


    Shiso pushed his sses up the bridge of his nose. There are so many scammers these days, so I have to be cautious. Moreover, Im just a poor student that called for help over the Inte. If you came because of money, Im afraid youll be disappointed


    What?! Li Mazi gritted his teeth. Little student, you are a scammer yourself. If you dont have money, how could you ask someone to help you? Do you think we have time to waste with you here?


    Li Mazi was so loud that the other customers in the coffee shop had turned to look at him. I silently pulled the hem of his shirt. Watch your image.


    Li Mazi shouted at the others. What are you looking at? Am I that handsome?


    Then, he ced his cup of coffee back on the table. Little Brother Zhang, why are you still sitting here? Get the bill and leave. Lets not waste our time here.


    Shiso looked disappointed. He looked at me and didnt dare to say anything.


    I smiled at Li Mazi. Li Mazi, did you contact him first?


    Li Mazi nodded. Thats right.


    You also set up this appointment, right? I continued.


    Li Mazi replied, Yes, I did


    In that case, enough nonsense. Lets work on this. I waved my hands.


    Li Mazi turned to me as he couldnt believe what he had just heard. Little Brother Zhang, since when have we worked without receiving any payment? If other people in the Circle know about this, we will lose our face.


    I lowered my voice and said, If you and I keep our mouths shut, who will know? Furthermore, this case has piqued my interest. Otherwise Why dont you go back to ying mahjong with Senior Shu?


    We should work on this case. Li Mazi paled.


    It seemed that ying mahjong with Senior Shu had traumatized Li Mazi.


    He took a seat, still angry. He didnt even try to sound polite. Little student, its your lucky day today as were doing charity work to help the poor. We wont charge you this time, but you shouldnt linger and waste our time. Tell us the story, quickly.


    Li Mazis fierce face made Shiso shiver in fear.


    I found his reaction funny. You posted that thread a few days ago, right?


    Shiso nodded. He was still shivering.


    Have many people reacted to your post?


    Shiso shook his head.


    I smiled. I see. It seems no one has responded to your post except the two of us. First, dont ask why we have approached you. If you dont mind, just tell us the story. Perhaps I can help you.


    Shiso considered it for a while then said, All right, Im a second-year student at Wuhan University. Its not convenient to tell you my real name. Just call me Shiso. The student whomitted suicide was Li Xiaoling, my ssmate. She was an introverted person and wasnt good at interacting with other people. After she hadmitted suicide, people started to know about her existence. We had cooperated on a project before, so we had developed some friendship


    Li Mazi impatiently knocked on the table with his knuckles. Just tell us the important details!


    Shiso blushed and continued, We were just normal friends. My concerns about her are within this boundary. Shemitted suicide on the seventh day ofst month. She used ck stockings to hang herself in the dorm room


    Wait a second. Didnt Li Xiaoling die at night time? Why was there nobody in her dorm? Why didnt anybody stop her?


    Oh, because the seventh day ofst month was a Saturday. Shiso smiled gently. That day happened to be her roommate''s birthday. Her roommate invited people to dinner and karaoke. However, they didnt invite Li Xiaoling because she didnt have a good rtionship with the other girls in the dorm. She liked to be alone at school. They found her dead around noon the next day when they came back


    When Shiso told us this, he lowered his head and looked regretful.


    How many people are there in one dorm at Wuhan University? I asked.


    Six.


    I thought then asked, Did anybody in her dorm get their lips sewed?


    Of course, said Shiso. After Li Xiaoling died, five people were staying in that room. Four of them got their lips sewed together. Moreover, the first victim of the lip-sewing incident at Wuhan University was Tang Shuangshuang, who had also stayed in that dorm. Tang Shuangshuang is a


    Li Mazi lost his patience. Why do you talk so much? Get straight to the point!


    Shiso was embarrassed and exined himself. Im telling you the important details.


    Li Mazi shot him a disdainful look then said to me, This coffee shop is too cold due to the air-conditioner. I dont feel well. Im going out for some fresh air.


    I squeezed a smile and gave him a nod.


    Li Mazi got up and left the coffee shop.


    After the viin was gone, Shiso felt better and less nervous. Where did I leave off?


    Tang Shuangshuang.


    Oh yeah. Shiso palmed his forehead. That Tang Shuangshuangs a mobile gossip device. She especially likes to fabricate rumors! Some girl had just kissed in ss, and she made up rumors that they had rented a hotel room. At first, people thought that she was an interesting person, so they liked to be with her. After all, these people are young and very curious. However,ter on, they discovered that Tang Shuangshuang wasnt a good person. It seemed she enjoyed it when people surrounded her and treated her as if she was an idol. To maintain her fame, she started to fabricate a lot of stories. Many people have suffered from her lies. Later on, when people saw her, they kept a good distance from her.


    Then, Shiso suddenly leaned forward. After her incident, many students here have said that perhaps one of her victims had hired someone to sew her mouth as revenge. They didnt pity her and felt that she deserved it. But when the second and the third cases happened, they started to panic.


    I was somewhat curious and asked, So, why do you connect the lip-sewing incidents with Li Xiaolings death?


    When I asked that, Shisos face turned pale. He looked worried and checked our surroundings. Then, he lowered his voice and muttered, Because before Li Xiaoling died, she wore a red dress! There are so many stories on the Inte that say that if a woman wears a red dress andmits suicide, she will be a scary ghost.


    She wore a red dress? How did you know that? I frowned. My voice turned serious.


    Shiso was right that a person shouldnt be wearing red clothes before they die. If theymitted suicide with a great grudge and wore a red dress, their grudge would be magnified countless times. They would likely be evil ghosts. It would be pretty hard to deal with them then.


    Everybody in the school knows this. Shiso said it as a matter of fact. Before shemitted suicide, she deliberately put on light makeup and changed into a new red dress she had just bought. She seemed to be determined to kill herself. Im sure of this because she had even cut her wrist before hanging herself. When her roommates found her, there was a lot of blood on the ground. Her body was like a wind chime that hung from the ceiling fan. I heard that two girls fainted right at the scene.


    Why did she want to kill herself? Although she had some ws in her personality, it wasnt enough of a reason to kill herself. She didnt need to cut her wrist and hang herself from the ceiling, right?


    Shiso contemted. I dont know, but people havee up with all sorts of exnations. It is It is somewhat weird. Before she killed herself, she was like air. People didnt feel her existence. If it wasnt for her death, many people among us wouldn''t have known that we had a girl like her in our university. After she died, people started saying that she was depressed and that it was weighing down on her. Some said her boyfriend had dumped her. Others said that she got in a big fight with her family Everything you could imagine. It was more melodramatic than a soap opera.


    If the campus is this chaotic, why havent we heard anything on the news? I asked.


    Shiso pouted his lips and answered cynically, Its because of our university. Theyve muted the press. After the incident, the school leaders held a meeting. Since they were afraid that this news would create a crisis and affect the enrollment for the new semester, they used their rtionships with the television stations and some news agencies. As such, the reporters had to ignore the cases. Ive posted my thread six or seven times. The previous ones were all deleted.


    How do they treat the victims of this incident? I asked.


    They were all sent to the school clinic. The ones with serious wounds like Tang Shuangshuang were sent to the hospital. Tofort the victims, the school leaders agreed to grant them schrships.


    Shiso wore a cynical expression typical of the young generation. He gulped down several swigs of cold lemonade then assessed me from head to toe.


    Hey What do you think about this incident?


    I smiled. Its strange.


    Shiso looked a little disappointed when he didnt hear the answer he had expected. Do you think theres a rtionship between this lip-sewing incident and Li Xiaolings suicidal death?


    Im not so certain.


    The suspicion in Shisos eyes grew higher. Are you a real expert or what? You are a reporter from some channel, right?


    Then, he tensed up and checked the table. Wheres your hidden camera?


    Kids these days always think they are the victims of some conspiracy...


    I kicked his leg and said, Be honest. Dont babble nonsense. Tell me if Li Xiaolings roommates are still staying in the dorm.


    Yeah, I think one of them is. Shes called Zhuang Ning.


    Shiso thought for a moment then said, Shes the only girl in their dorm that didnt get her lips sewn shut. Everybody says that shes got the halo of the main character protecting her.


    Can you take me to see her? I asked.


    No, I cant! Shiso hurried to express his denial. First of all, I dont know who you are, and I havent verified your identity yet. I cant trust you. Besides, except for attending sses, Im in the dorm room most of the time, watching movies or ying video games. I dont have many friends, and I dont know Zhuang Ning, either.


    Shiso had a simr existence to Li Xiaoling. Was it the reason why he had paid a lot of attention to Li Xiaolings suicide?


    I thought about it then offered a solution that got the young mans attention. How about this, you think about a way to get me into Wuhan University. Ill investigate the rest myself.


    Shiso thought about it, but he was still worried.


    I had to use my ace. You want to know why Li Xiaoling killed herself, right? Do you want to know if the lip-sewing incident is rted to her or not?


    People are always curious.


    Indeed, Shisos eyes lit up. All right, Ill take you to my school. But if something happens, please dont disclose anything about me!


    I nodded.


    While hanging out with a poor student like Shiso, the task of paying the bill fell on me.


    While I paid for our drinks, I saw Li Mazi smoking outside the window.


    Does that bastard not want to pay for his drink? Is that why he quickly ran outside?


    After we stepped out of the coffee shop, I decided to bring Li Mazi with me. However, Shiso denied my request. No, he cant go! After those incidents, my universitys security has be so strict. Previously, we could freely enter the school, but now we have to show our student ID cards. You look young, but he Shiso looked at Li Mazi with disgust. He looks like he could be a students parent.


    Li Mazi was furious. Are you saying that I look old?


    You dont just look like It seemed Shiso didnt get the meaning of Li Mazis words. You are old.


    Li Mazi almost vomited blood out in anger. Little Brother Zhang, Ill wait for you here! If I stay one more second with this brat, someone will die. If he doesnt die, I will be the one to die.


    I rarely saw Li Mazi lose control like this. I joked, Shiso also doesnt think twice before speaking his mind. He matches you well.


    Li Mazi red at me. I could tell that he was thinking,You bastard!


    He walked away and waited in a distant corner to smoke.


    I followed Shiso and headed to Wuhan University.

 Chapter 397: Goldfish Black Bracelet

    Chapter 397: Goldfish ck Bracelet


    We soon reached the entrance to Wuhan University.


    It used to be an imposing ce, but now it looked deserted and lonely. I guessed Li Xiaolings suicide and the lip-sewing incidents had cast a shadow over the ce. The people who wereing in and out the gate wore a gloomy face. They walked quickly, and none of them looked like they wanted to linger around.


    I followed Shiso and slowly entered the gate.


    Show me your student ID cards! shouted the security guard at the entrance gate as he held his hand up.


    Shiso took out a student ID card from his pocket and showed it to the security guard. The guards eyes then turned to me.


    I had to fabricate a story. Uncle, someone stole my wallet while I was in the coffee shop with my friends. My student ID card was stolen, too.


    The security guard scanned my face.


    I hurried to pull Shiso. Im his roommate, and we went out together. You can ask him!


    Shiso was pulled into the mess with me. He bit the bullet and said, Its true. You can call our professor to confirm it.


    Perhaps the security guard thought it was too much work. Since I had a student testify for me, he took out a notebook. Leave your credentials here! You should go and make a new student ID card as soon as possible. Young people like you arent too careful these days.


    After hearing that he had addressed me as a young man, I had to admire Shiso for his prediction.


    If it were Li Mazi, he would have been busted on the spot.


    Shiso helped me register. Then, we walked together toward the school.


    He pointed at a window on the third floor of a building. Thats Li Xiaolings dorm room. After her suicide and the lip-sewing incidents, no girls have dared to stay on the third floor. Theyve all moved to the fourth or the fifth floors. I dont know where Zhuang Ning has moved to. You should go and ask her yourself.


    Okay.


    As soon as I said that, Shiso waved his hand at me. You should hurry. Im leaving now. If you find anything, please let me know.


    He was afraid that people would see him with me, so he ran away really fast.


    Sigh, are you even a man? How can you be such a coward?


    I stood in front of the girl dormitory for a while. Because of the horrible series of incidents that had taken ce here, the atmosphere in the dormitory was really gloomy.


    I had stood there for around fifteen minutes before I saw two girls holding thermos bottles. They were running quickly toward the dormitory as though they werepeting in a one-hundred-meter sprint.


    I couldnt afford to lose this chance and screamed, Schoolmates!


    The two girls were frightened like scared bunnies. They shrieked and shivered.


    What What do you want?


    They were so scared. Their voices were shivering.


    Am I that scary...?


    Good day, friends. I have something I want to say to Zhuang Ning. Could you please help me find her? I tried to sound calm and friendly.


    I guessed my smile worked. The two girls exhaled. However, one of them still sounded vignt. Who are you? Why do you need to see her?


    Oh, about that... My brain spun as I tried to fabricate an excuse. Im her distant rtive from her hometown. Im on a business trip to Wuhan, so I thought I would visit her.


    The two girls exchanged looks then said, Okay, just wait here. Were going to call her for you, but were not sure if shes here.


    After they said that, they entered the building without turning their heads to see me. The dormitorys entrance looked dark and gloomy. The door was like a massive, bloody mouth that swallowed the two girls whole.


    Half an hourter, a pale-looking girl wearing a puffer jacket came out of the building.


    The weather was rtively warm today, but the girl looked as if she was sick. Although she was wearing a puffer jacket, I noticed her shoulders were shivering.


    She stood at the entrance of the building and looked at me. In an anxious voice, she asked, Are Are you looking for me?


    Yes, I am. I politely greeted her with a nod and tried to make myself look righteous. I didnt want to scare her and make her scream.


    I dont know you. Who are you? Zhuang Ning looked anxious.


    I lowered my voice and fabricated a story. I dont want to conceal anything from you. Im a private detective hired by Li Xiaolings parents. They cant ept the fact that their beloved daughter killed herself. They thought that there was something strange here. Thats why theyve hired me for an investigation.


    Zhuang Ning nodded. Her voice was stiff as she said, Although we were roommates, we werent really friends. Im afraid I cant help you.


    She seemed very conflicted. I could see that.


    I contemted, then added, Miss Zhuang Ning, a young life was lost. Do you really not want to help us? Just replying to a few simple questions can helpfort the deceaseds parents.


    My dramatic speech surprised me a lot.


    Perhaps I should be a writer, I thought to myself.


    Zhuang Ning thought for a moment and looked at me. She hesitated for quite a long time, but she didnt dare to leave the dormitory.


    I knew she was hesitating, so I just waited for her. I didnt show that I was in a hurry or that I was anxious. I didnt dare to urge her, either.


    In the end, Zhuang Ning sighed and walked toward me. Mister, my bodys not in good shape. I cant stand for a long time. If you have something you want to know, please seize the time.


    She looked as if she could fall at any moment. It seemed she was afraid of the sunlight.


    Theres a bench over there. Is it okay if we walk over there and sit down? I pointed at a bench by a tree next to the basketball yard.


    Zhuang Ning nodded. Yes.


    After we sat down, I went straight to the topic. What was your rtionship with Li Xiaoling?


    Nothing much, answered Zhuang Ning calmly. She was an introverted girl who didnt like to socialize with others. I had moved to her dorm room from a different one, so I was like an outsider to them. It wasnt easy for me to blend into this unfamiliar group. That was why the two of us belonged to the group of the unweed in that dorm room Anyway, you shouldnt think that we were friends. Id been living in that dorm room for one and a half years, but she only talked to me twice.


    Okay. On the seventh day of the previous month, which is also the day of Li Xiaolings incident, did you attend your roommates birthday celebration?


    Zhuang Ning shook her head. I wasnt really their friend, so why would they want to invite me? It was Wang Nans birthday. She only invited Sun Dongyu and Ge Xiaofei, her besties. Tang Shuangshuang was thick-skinned enough to tag with them.


    Zhuang Nings voice was feeble. If it wasnt for the close distance, I wouldnt be able to hear her. She adjusted her breath and tried to continue. I also went out that night. I stayed with my boyfriend and returned to the dorms the next day.


    She then added, If you dont believe me, you can ask my boyfriend. We were with each other the whole night.


    She had totally believed that I was a private detective.


    So, when did you return to the dorms the following day? I asked.


    Zhuang Ning didnt hesitate to answer. I returned at the same time as Wang Nan and the others. I bumped into them at the university entrance. It seemed Wang Nan had drunk a lot and was very happy. It was around noon, but she was still drunk. Ge Xiaofei and Tang Shuangshuang had to support her. When they saw me, they called me to help carry their bags. When we opened the door to our room


    Zhuang Nings voice halted as though she had just recalled some terrifying images. Her body shivered, and her teeth ttered. The sounds she made were faint, but they tingled my scalp.


    What happened next? Although I knew it was inhuman to ask more questions, I hadnt found a clue yet.


    Li Xiaoling hadmitted suicide. She used two ck stockings to hang herself from the ceiling fan. She wore a beautiful, bright red dress. Her left wrist was cut open, and the blood had dried at the cut. The entire bedsheet was soaked with her blood. Zhuang Nings eyes reddened. She took in a few deep breaths as she tried to calm down.


    She continued, Right. At that time, Li Xiaoling wore a bracelet around her wrist. It was ck and had a beautifully carved goldfish on it. She bought that goldfish braceletst month at a flea market. She liked it a lot and didnt want to lose it. In the end, she wore it even when she killed herself.

 Chapter 398: I Saw Li Xiaoling!

    Chapter 398: I Saw Li Xiaoling!


    A goldfish bracelet?


    I didnt have time to think and just listened to Zhuang Nings feeble voice. That bracelet was covered in blood. Moreover, Li Xiaolings body swayed in the air; it looked so scary! Wang Nan and Ge Xiaofei fainted right at the scene. I quickly ran away to get the dormitory manager


    It seemed Zhuang Nings headache had be more intense as she remembered the horrible scene. She sighed. Thats what happened. I didnt really know Li Xiaoling. If the other person doesnt want to befriend me, I wont push her to interact with me. If I have to suggest someone who knows something about Li Xiaoling, it would be Tang Shuangshuang. You can ask her Actually, you cant. Her mouth is sewed up, and she cant talk now.


    She looked as if she could faint at any minute. But when she said thest sentence, her voice contained a sense of satisfaction.


    I couldnt help but nce at her.


    I happened to meet her eyes at this moment. She was a little surprised but reacted fast. She gave me a reluctant smile. I dont feel well, and thats all I can help you with. Although I dont know what your purpose is, what I told you is the truth. Still, youre not good at acting, and you shouldnt disguise yourself as a private detective in the future. Li Xiaolingmitted suicide, which is confirmed by the letter she left behind and the evidence at the scene. Her father came to the school and agreed with the polices conclusion, said Zhuang Ning.


    After taking two steps, she turned to look at me. The next time you want to disguise as someone, you should do your research first. Li Xiaoling didnt have a mother and lived with her father to make ends meet. Thats why her parents couldnt have hired a private detective. You shouldnt use this cover again in the future


    Then, Zhuang Ning headed back to her dormitory.


    It was embarrassing that I was busted.


    I scratched my head and stood up. I was about to leave when I caught a gleam of Shiso hiding behind some trees in the distance.


    What does that guy want? Why is he hiding in the corner and watching me?


    I left Wuhan University full of doubts. I didnt hurry to meet with Li Mazi but turned to a small alley behind Wuhan University. I was trying to find a ce to make a fake ID card.


    When I told the shopkeeper that I wanted to have a student ID card from Wuhan University, he doubled the price. Brother, its not that Im greedy, but you should know that Wuhan Universitys student ID cards are very hard to make these days. Every time the students enter the school, they need to show it. Its really hard to make one.


    You deliberately increased the price, and youre still telling me that you arent greedy?


    It was fortunate that the price wasnt exaggerated. I was toozy to bargain with him, so I paid the money and obtained my ID card. The next time I wanted to enter Wuhan University, it would be easier.


    When I came back to the coffee shop, Li Mazi was waiting for me. Little Brother Zhang, why did youe back sote?


    I went to see Li Xiaolings roommate and got some information.


    Li Mazi pouted his lips. Its not like were getting any money from this case. Theres no need to be so serious about it.


    I patted Li Mazis shoulder and talked as if I was his senior. Li Mazi, there are many things more important than money in this world. You got that?


    No, I dont. Li Mazi resolutely shook his head. Were in the era of capitalism. Everything needs money to connect.


    All right, I was ying the harp to a stupid ox. Even if I strummed until my hands broke, it would be no use.


    Li Mazi followed me back to my shop. I gave him a puzzled look. Why are you following me?


    To get a free meal, answered Li Mazi. I received no payment, so you have to pay for my lunch at the very least. Otherwise, I would have wasted my whole morning for nothing.


    You speak as if I had earned any money!


    Our lunch was two bowls of instant beef noodles. Li Mazi ate to his hearts content, and he even stole a beer and a salted duck egg from my kitchen. I felt robbed.


    After lunch, he rubbed his round belly and left with satisfaction. As for me, I sat in front of myputer.


    As I expected, Shiso was online, waiting for me. It wasnt too much to say that he was anxious.


    Did you see Zhuang Ning? What did she tell you?


    Being a young man and a student, Shiso was more talkative than I had imagined.


    I answered, I did, but she didnt feel well. We just chatted for a while.


    He gave me a short reply then went offline. It seemed he was a little disappointed.


    Is there any rtion between Li Xiaolings death and the lip-sewing incident? Tang Shuangshuang was the first victim. Does she know anything?


    I decided to go find Tang Shuangshuang to ask her.


    No secret couldst forever. Since something horrible had happened at Wuhan University, even though the newspapers didnt post anything, someone was bound to know about it.


    I asked in the Circle for more details and found out the hospital Tang Shuangshuang was staying in.


    Feeling content, I went to bed with the decision that I would visit her tomorrow.


    It started to rain the next day. But the rain had never affected a hospitals business. The lobby was hectic and packed, and there were extra beds ced on the corridors, where many patients were having a drip. The air was filled with the smell of disinfectant.


    I hurried to find a nurse on duty and asked her about Tang Shuangshuang.


    The nurse was busy, so she didnt have time to talk to me. She pointed to a room at the end of the corridor. The one you want to see is in that room. However, she has a problem with her head. Her condition isnt good, either. You shouldnt visit her for a long time. Let her rest.


    I nodded then walked to the patient room she had shown me.


    It was really quiet inside. A chubby girl with short hair was sitting idly on the bed. She was dumbly staring at the window.


    Her face was terrifyingly pale, and her lips were swollen. Although the needle holes on her lips were closed and dried, they still looked horrible.


    I gently closed the door.


    It seemed she didnt hear me. She didnt move and sat still. Her gaze didnt leave the window, just as if something out there had caught her attention.


    Tang Shuangshuang? I called in a low voice.


    Shhhh! Tang Shuangshuang heard me and quickly ced her index finger on her mouth. Do not talk.


    After saying that, she turned her head around and resumed her previous sitting posture. She continued to watch the window.


    Boom!


    A lightning strike suddenly crossed the sky. Tang Shuangshuang was so scared that she shrieked. Her arms swung disorderly. Donte near me! Dont! Donte near me! I didnt say anything! It wasnt me! I never said anything! No, it wasnt me!


    She was frightened out of her mind. Her eyes were full of fear and terror. Eventually, she got under her bed and crouched, shivering.


    No, it wasnt me! I didnt say anything! It wasnt me


    I squatted and calmly looked at her. You knew Li Xiaoling, didnt you?


    When Tang Shuangshuang heard the name Li Xiaoling, she was even more frightened. Her eyes opened wide. I dont know Li Xiaoling! I dont know her! I never spread rumors about her! Dont sew my mouth! I never said anything!


    Since she was too frantic, the wounds on her mouth tore again. Blood spurted on the ground.


    I was scared and took a step back.


    A nurse stormed in the room as she had heard Tang Shuangshuang screaming. Whats going on? Wheres the patient?!


    When she saw Tang Shuangshuang underneath her bed, the nurse frowned impatiently. Why do you have to hide there? Get out, hurry!


    Tang Shuangshuang shook her head.


    No, Im noting out. Theres someone on the ceiling!


    The nurse lifted her head and checked the ceiling. She answered reluctantly, No one is there. Get out, hurry up! I have a lot of work. Dont cause me more trouble, okay?


    Then, the nurse looked angrily at me. Mister, how do you rte to her? Why did youe to stir her up?


    I didnt have time to exin since Tang Shuangshuang started screaming again from underneath the bed. Theres someone on the ceiling! I recognize her! Its Li Xiaoling! Li Xiaoling, dont follow me. I didnt say anything. I have never said anything. Dont sew my mouth!


    The nurse pushed me out of the room. Several burly male nurses rushed in and attempted to pull Tang Shuangshuang out from under the bed.


    Tang Shuangshuang was like a brave and persistent lioness. She hugged the bedpost and didnt want to lose her grip.


    She howled louder. Blood spurted again from her wound.


    The nurse then closed the patient rooms door.


    The moment I got out of the hospital, I could finally confirm that the lip-sewing incidents at Wuhan University were rted to Li Xiaolings death!

 Chapter 399: Ruan Lingyu

    Chapter 399: Ruan Lingyu


    I decided to visit Wuhan University one more time.


    Nowadays, the technology to duplicate documents was pretty good. I was easily able to pass the security check after I showed my student ID card at the university entrance.


    There was a sprinkle of rain, so I held an umbre and strolled along the small path. Eventually, I stopped outside the girl dormitory.


    I casually wiped the water off a cold bench and sat down. I gazed at the window on the third floor, the ce Shiso had shown me.


    It was the bedroom where Li Xiaoling used to stay.


    I wondered,What happened to her that pushed her tomit suicide?


    I sat there for quite a long time, and the rain had stopped.


    A girl wearing a thick sweater walked out of the dormitory. I took a nce. It was Zhuang Ning.


    She frowned slightly and looked at me. Why are you here again?


    I have something I havent figured out, so I came to see if I could clear my doubts. I smiled. I visited Tang Shuangshuang in the hospital. Her situation isnt good.


    Zhuang Ning pouted her lips and said indifferently, Is that so? She deserves it.


    I found that Zhuang Ning was very hostile toward Tang Shuangshuang.


    Do you hate her? I asked.


    Zhuang Ning looked strangely calm and nodded. Not only do I hate her... I loathe her from the bottom of my heart!


    When Zhuang Ning said this, she even gritted her teeth.


    I was surprised.


    Zhuang Ning sighed then sat next to me. Tang Shuangshuang is a person with a despicable mouth! Do you think that Im being mean? Shes a girl in my dorm room, and now shes in grave trouble. Her face has almost been ruined, so I should forget the past and care about her, right? Haha, but I just cant do it.


    I felt somewhat speechless and smiled. What did she do to you that makes you hate her so much?


    There were six female students in my dorm room. Except for Li Xiaoling who killed herself, the others have gone home or stayed in the hospital. When I witnessed Li Xiaolings death, I was greatly shocked. But do you know why Im so persistent to stay in this university? Zhuang Ning shot me a nce.


    I shook my head to indicate that I didnt know.


    Zhuang Ning didnt mind it. Im from a very rural and remote vige. Going to school is the dream of my life. All of the folks in my vige collected money to sponsor me so that I could attend here. I stay in Wuhan every summer break or winter break and work part-time in Wuhan. I dont even want to spend money on the train ticket to visit my hometown.


    She continued, Last semester, I exerted a lot of effort to get an assistant job in the school. The job was to help the professors prepare the lessons. At that time, Tang Shuangshuang was my rival. However, since her image wasnt good, she didnt get the job. When she learned that I was chosen, she spread a rumor and told the other ssmates that I got the job because I slept with the professors every day. They spread the rumor fast enough, and in just a blink of an eye, I became the universitys viin. To avoid the negative impact, the professor had to recruit a male student to be his assistant.


    When she came to this part, Zhuang Ning turned to me, her face calm. Tang Shuangshuang just said a few words, but they lost me my job and my dignity! When I went to her to question it, she justughed and said it was just a joke.


    I understood and nodded. Because of this, you hate Tang Shuangshuang?


    What, should I be thankful to her? Zhuang Ning sneered. Anyway, what have you learned until now?


    Currently, theres no progress, I answered.


    Zhuang Ning didnt believe me. However, she was a smart girl, so she changed the topic. Mister, why are you interested in this? Who asked you toe here? Youre not a student at Wuhan University. Why do you want to get involved in this?


    Because Im bored. Also, Im a merchant specialized in collecting strange antiques. I forced a smile.


    My answer was out of Zhuang Nings expectation.


    Zhuang Ning raised her eyebrows. She got up and was prepared to leave. Curiosity killed the cat. I think you should control yourself.


    I called to her, Zhuang Ning,st time you told me that that before Li Xiaolingmitted suicide, she left a letter. Did you read that letter?


    Zhuang Ning nodded. I did.


    What did it say? I asked.


    Only one line: Gossip is a fearful thing. Then, Zhuang Ning went into the female student dormitory.


    Gossip is a fearful thing? I repeated the words.


    Why did they sound so familiar?


    I quickly returned to my antique shop and used myputer for a quick search. Soon, I found an article.


    There was a movie star from the Republic of China period (1912-1949) that left a note with the same line when shemitted suicide. She was an icon of Chinese cinema, and her name was Ruan Lingyu. Ruan Lingyu was a beauty that could mesmerize anyone and was addressed as the top beauty amongst the Four Beauties of the Republic of China. She was a movie star and also a socialite. However, her life was ruined by her ex-husband, who was a hard-core gambler. He always relied on Ruan Lingyus money, and if she didnt pay him, he would spread rumors to tarnish her name. He would say that she was a mistress that had slept with countless men.


    In the end, Ruan Lingyu couldnt stand this humiliation and the pressure, so she drank poison to end her life. In herst letter, she left the line Gossip is a fearful thing.


    This cant be just a coincidence, right?


    Then, I remembered that Li Xiaoling was wearing a ck jade bracelet when she killed herself...


    I frantically typed the keyword goldfish bracelet in the search bar. However, I got nothing. I had to search through Ruan Lingyus ck and white photos and scroll through a lot of them.


    When my eyes were already sore, I finally found a yellowed picture of Ruan Lingyu wearing a ck jade bracelet over her porcin-white wrist.


    Although it was a picture taken in the Republic of China period, the ck bracelet was still eye-catching. The goldfish on it looked lively, just as if it could swim away in the next moment.


    So, the otherworldly item this time is this goldfish bracelet?


    While I was contemting, Li Mazi strolled into my shop. Little Brother Zhang, have you eaten yet?


    Not yet.


    Awesome. I havent, either. Ill stay in your shop for another meal, said Li Mazi. Then, hefortably sank into my sofa.


    He did it so naturally that I was stunned.


    Li Mazi, do you think my house is a cafeteria? I stood up and kicked him. When I want to see you, I only find your shadow. And when I dont want to see your face, you always show up in front of me.


    Ouch. What? You wanted to see me?


    I have something for you to do. I scratched my head and ruffled my hair, then said with a yawn, Youve been bragging to me that you know everybody in Wuhan, right? Go and ask around if anybody bought a goldfish bracelet from a flea market in the past two months.


    A goldfish bracelet? Li Mazi squinted his eyes. They sparkled with greed. Is it valuable?


    I put on a poker face and silently looked at him.


    Li Mazi felt awkward. All right, Im going. Let alone the flea market, if you ask, I will climb the sword mountain and swim across a sea of fire for you. However, I need to refill my energy first.


    I kicked him one more time. Move, now!


    Little Brother Zhang There are seven or eight flea markets in Wuhan. I have to go and check them one by one. Shouldnt you treat me to a meal before I leave?


    I seriously thought about it for a solid second. I then gratefully bowed to Li Mazi. Thank you for yourbor.


    Then, I directly mmed my door shut and went back to my bedroom while Li Mazi cursed by the door.

 Chapter 400: The Gossipers Go Down

    Chapter 400: The Gossipers Go Down


    I was awakened by my hunger.


    By the time I got up, it was already past noon. Izily strolled to my kitchen. Except for potatoes, I had nothing else to eat, so I decided to set up the rice cooker and stir-fried some potato strips.


    I didnt know how to cook, and it was Yin Xinyue who had taught me how to make stir-fry potato strips.


    Li Mazi had the snout of a dog. He stepped in and sniffed around. What a coincidence! Im back right at mealtime. Little Brother Zhang, tell me honestly, you pitied me so much that you cooked for me. Isnt that right?


    At this moment, I hated that I couldnt just sh Li Mazi to death with my knife.


    While I was stir-frying the potatoes, Li Mazi moved a small stool to sit near me. I found something about the goldfish bracelet you asked me to investigate. Recently, a female university student bought a ck goldfish bracelet from a flea market. The one who sold it to her is called Old Yao, and hes a grave robber.


    His bodys not good, and hes relying on ginseng to lengthen his life. Thats why people in the business call him Old Yao! [1] Hes not bad in his business as he often gets strange and rare items. However, they arent really valuable. Thats why all the other grave robbers have western-style vis while hes still roaming around the flea markets.


    I didnt turn to look at him and kept cooking. Continue.


    Li Mazi gulped his saliva. He unearthed that goldfish bracelet somewhere. But he didnt open his stall today, so I couldnt meet him. Someone else told me this information. The bracelet is made of ck jade, but there are scratches on it, so its not a top-quality item. It couldnt be worth more than five hundred renminbi. However, he has a silver-tongue, so he tricked a female student into buying it


    It seemed the female student in their story was Li Xiaoling.


    We could no longer deny the rtionship between Li Xiaolings death and the goldfish bracelet.


    I put the food on the te then asked, Do you know when Old Yao will open his stall again?


    Sunday, replied Li Mazi. Do you want to see Old Yao and ask him? I have to warn you that this old mans strange. If you didnt know him, you might think that hes mute. He only talks when hes selling his items.


    I didnt bother to reply and took two bowls of rice. Then, I started to eat.


    Li Mazi wasnt pleased with my cooking skill. Little Brother Zhang, is this even a potato strip? You shouldnt fool me. This freaking piece of potato is even bigger than a French fry!


    I threw my chopsticks on the table. If you dont like it, get lost!


    Little Brother Zhang, I was out all morning running errands for you. You shouldnt belittle my efforts, okay? Li Mazi gulped down the rice while protesting.


    I shot him a fierce nce. Li Mazi finished eating and ran to sit at myputer.


    While I was cleaning the dishes, he suddenly called, Little Brother,e take a look!


    Whats up? I asked.


    That stinky kid left you a message. Damn, he thinks hes a king now. He thinks we have to show ourselves whenever he wants to summon us. Li Mazi was fuming.


    I pushed him aside to see. Shiso wrote only one line. I know why Li Xiaolingmitted suicide.


    Why? I immediately asked.


    Shiso was online. He was content that he had obtained such a crucial clue by himself. I heard it was because of some gossip. Before Li Xiaoling killed herself, someone had taken a photo of her getting out of a BMW car. The people in the school started to spread rumors that she was a mistress. Some said that she was working as a hostess in a bar, serving wine to earn extra money. In short, they said all kinds of nasty things about her. Our professor even summoned Li Xiaoling and talked to her. And then, that night, Li Xiaoling couldnt bear the pressure and humiliation anymore, so she hung herself


    Shiso added, You are an expert in this field, and you couldnt even get such information?


    Li Mazi, who was standing next to me, was enraged. This brat needs a lesson. Little Brother, if I were you, I wouldnt tolerate him.


    I smiled at him. Its okay. I can tolerate him just fine.


    Since Li Mazi had intervened, Shiso didnt receive my answer for a long time. He became restless. What do you think? Is my clue useful? I even searched the schools forum and found the photo in question. Its the photo of Li Xiaoling getting out of a BMW.


    Shiso sent me the picture.


    In the picture, Li Xiaoling wore a facemask, and her eyes looked empty. The BMW car behind her was beautiful, which didnt match her student identity.


    Hows the picture? Very explosive, right?


    Hey, are you there?


    Hey, grandmaster, are you there?


    Shiso was anxious and sent several texts.


    I kept silent for a while then wrote, If I were Li Xiaoling, I might alsomit suicide. Rumors are scary, and they spread very quickly. Those people just wanted to talk ill about someone to amuse themselves, but they made Li Xiaoling suffer. Because of that, she didnt dare to live with her head held high


    Youre right. The most horrible thing in this world is the onlookers who dont know anything but act as if they do.


    Since Shiso was a little anxious, he didnt wait for my reply and logged out. I looked at our conversation on the screen and sat there in a daze.


    As Shiso had said, in this modern age, the weapon that could give people the deepest wound was gossip.


    Your seemingly harmless sentence could change someones life forever.


    It could even end their life!


    I seemed to understand why the lip-sewing incidents started to happen after Li Xiaolings death.


    I pondered,Were those who had talked ill behind Li Xiaolings back the victims of this lip-sewing incident?


    I decided to go to Wuhan University the next day.


    When I passed through the university entrance, the atmosphere felt somewhat tense.


    I wondered,Did something happen here?


    Several young students holding textbooks walked past me. They were discussing something.


    Did you hear about what happened? Last night, there was a lip-sewing incident in the male dormitory.


    Really? The school has installed cameras and many security guards were patrolling, right? How could something so horrible happen again?


    Do you believe in what the school tells you?


    Um, so who is the victim?


    I dont know him. It seems hes a sophomore senior.


    I know him. A fellow of mine lives next to his room. I heard that hes a nerd but also very curious. He really likes to gossip. I remember hes called Shi... Shiso?


    Shiso!


    I was bewildered.


    Are they talking about the Shiso I know?


    The students walking ahead were still talking.


    Hes a man and he loves to gossip. No wonder someone sewed his lips together.


    I heard that he and Li Xiaoling used to have an ambiguous rtionship. I read a post from our schools forum this morning. They worked together on an assignment. They were so close that they couldnt wait to rent a hotel room.


    They seemingly despised people who liked to gossip but were gossiping themselves.


    I looked at them as they walked away.


    Why were Shisos lips sewed up?I suddenly had a bad premonition.


    Was it because he had talked with me about Li Xiaolings deathst night?I couldnt help but look at the female dormitory. I wanted to take a look at Li Xiaolings room.


    Since Li Xiaoling wore a red dress when she killed herself, could she have reached the Ghost King level already? I have never encountered such powerful resentful energy before!


    All of a sudden, a red shadow shed at Li Xiaolings window.


    Sure enough, it was her.


    However, that was the female dormitory, and I couldnt enter the ce. Otherwise, not only would I not be able to do anything to solve this case, but I would also be taken to the police station.


    I might even be used of the lip-sewing crime!


    While I was racking my brain, I heard a familiar voice behind me. Why have youe here again?


    I turned and saw Zhuang Ning.


    1. Yao here means medicine.

 Chapter 401: The Slaughter Begins

    Chapter 401: The ughter Begins


    She still looked very sick, and her ashen face didnt have the least bit of color. She frowned as though my presence disgusted her.


    In previous cases, people would thank me as if I were their father when I helped them solve their problems. But now, I felt like an eyesore. This was the first time it had happened to me; I was so embarrassed that I didnt know what to say.


    Zhuang Ning slowly walked past me. Dont you know that a man standing in front of the female dorm is really eye-catching? The security guards wille to arrest you if you dont leave soon.


    I smiled at her. Theres something I havent figured out yet.


    Do you think you can figure it out right here? Zhuang Nings voice sounded disdainful. Your curiosity will bring about your doom.


    I lowered my voice. If you say so... Ill just be more curious. Do you know about the rumors being spread before Li Xiaolingmitted suicide?


    Which rumor? Zhuang Ning furrowed her eyebrows. There were many rumors about her. Which one are you referring to?


    There were many of them?


    She was an introvertedgirl who didnt like socializing. Just how much did she have to endure to end her life by hanging herself and cutting her wrists? I suddenly felt deep regret for LiXiaolingspassing.


    About the BMW car


    Zhuang Ning sneered before I could finish. Oh that. Its a rumor Tang Shuangshuang deliberately fabricated to harm Li Xiaoling. Since Li Xiaolings academic record was much better than hers, Tang Shuangshuang was afraid that she would snatch the top student spot. Thats Tang Shuangshuangs specialty, stepping on others to get what she wants. Thats why I told you to ask Tang Shuangshuang if you wanted to know more about Li Xiaoling when we first met. No one understands Li Xiaoling better than her.


    Fabricated? I couldnt believe it.She fabricated such an outrageous rumor?


    Zhuang Ning could see the shock in my eyes. She sighed and continued with a calm tone, Its what humans do. Sometimes, they wont hesitate to harm others for their own benefit. On that day, Tang Shuangshuang and Wang Nan identally saw Li Xiaoling when she came back to school. Wang Nan didnt like Li Xiaoling; she despised her and thought that she was a weirdo. Her jealousy hit the roof when they saw her getting out of a BMW car. She said, Female students these days dont know shame. They are willing to do anything to get in some rich mens fancy cars.


    When Tang Shuangshuang heard that, she knew it was a great chance to tarnish Li Xiaolings name. If she could do that, the top student spot would belong to her. She used her phone to take some photos, and based on Wang Nansment, she fabricated many stories, including Li Xiaoling being some old mans mistress and how low she had fallen. She even implied that Li Xiaoling had borne some old mans child. Such an explosive topic would catch a lot of attention. As such, people started to spread the rumor. Soon, half of Wuhan University believed that Li Xiaoling was someones mistress.


    What about the BMW car? Where did ite from?


    Zhuang Ning shook her head. Actually, that cars owner was LiXiaolingsfather.


    I nodded.


    Since Li Xiaoling didnt like to socialize with others, she didnt have a single friend to confide in when something so terrible was happening to her. Every day, peopleughed at her. In the end, she Zhuang Ning stopped there. She bit her lower lip.


    Then she added, Tang Shuangshuang and her mouth are the culprits; she''s the one that caused all of this. When it was found that her lips had been sewed, I was happy!


    Finally, I understood the whole story. Although nobody had actually taken action, they had used rumors to push Li Xiaoling tomit suicide. Just how deep were her despair and hatred when she decided to put on a red dress and kill herself to be an evil soul to take revengeter?


    Tang Shuangshuang had been the first one to spread the rumors. That was why she was the first one who got her lips sewed shut. AfterShisoslips were sewed, all the people that had mocked her or spread those rumors had been dealt with. I guessed things would stop here.


    Zhuang Ning and I remained silent for a while, as we reflected on the matter. A momentter, someone ran toward us. I lifted my head and saw a girl with a ponytail; she was originally heading to the dormitory, but she made a turn when she saw Zhuang Ning.


    Zhuang Ning, big news! Big news!


    What big news? Why does our Wuhan University have this much hot news? Zhuang Ning didnt sound interested in it.


    The other girl ignored her attitude and said mysteriously, You havent heard, I suppose. Your roommate, Tang Shuangshuang, justmitted suicide in the hospital. She also used stockings, and her death was pretty simr to Li Xiaolings. What do you think? It counts as hot news, doesnt it?


    Zhuang Nings face paled. She asked in fright, You Who told you this?


    The girl wore a content face and replied with a bit of smugness, I went to the schools office to send a report a moment ago, and I happened to overhear two professors discussing this. Our school had sent an instructor to pay a visit to Tang Shuangshuang at the hospital. When he opened the door to her room Haha, that instructor wet himself. Wanna know his name?


    Zhuang Ning was flustered, and she shot me a nce. I bowed my head to ponder


    Did Tang Shuangshuang do this because she went crazy, or was it Li Xiaolings resentful energy that affected her?


    If it was Li Xiaoling


    Has her resentful energy already reached a level where she can kill with ease? Is sewing their lips no longer enough? Is that why she wants to make them hang themselves like she did?


    It seemed that I would need to stop her.


    The girl who had passed by to share the news was still talking, but Zhuang Ning no longer reacted. As such, she pouted her lips, feeling discontent. Hey, are you listening to me? I just told you a bunch of things, and you didnt even blink. All right, Im going to tell the others. Then, she headed for the staircase.


    After the girl left, I asked Zhuang Ning, Whos the second victim of the lip-sewing incidents in your university? Was it also a roommate of yours?

 Chapter 402: The Odd Story of the Goldfish Bracelet

    Chapter 402: The Odd Story of the Goldfish Bracelet


    Zhuang Ning blurted out, Its Wang Nan. Wang Nans home is in this city. She should be nursing her wounds at home.


    Do you know her address? I asked.


    Zhuang Ning shook her head, forcing a smile. Did you forget already? Im not weed in this dorm room. You can ask someone from the school staff.


    That wasnt an option. My fake student ID could fool the security guards but not the teachers.


    Zhuang Ning said reluctantly after seeing my troubled expression, All right... Wait for me here, Ill help you ask around. You should hide in a corner somewhere, standing in front of the girls dormitory is in stupid. They will think youre a pervert.


    I had always been confident about my looks. How could I turn into a pervert by simply standing here?


    Young women were really strange these days!


    I shook my head and found a corner to sit down.


    Zhuang Ning returned around half an hourter. Her face was gloomy and her shoulders shivered. No need to find Wang Nan. She She also killed herself.


    What?


    I asked her, Did she die like Tang Shuangshuang?


    Yeah. Zhuang Ning nodded. Exactly the same. They both used stockings to hang themselves. Her mother found her dead in her room.


    That goldfish bracelet has such a formidable power?


    Zhuang Nings condition wasnt good, so I didnt dare to ask more of her. I only advised her to go back to her room to rest. Then, I rushed back to my antique shop.


    I yelled at Li Mazi when I saw that he was in my shop. I must see Old Yao right away!


    He only goes to the flea market on Sundays


    I cant wait until then! I urged. You must take me to see Old Yao, right now!


    Li Mazi quickly sensed that something serious had happened, so he immediately went out with me to look.


    Usually, it wasnt easy to find the house of a grave robber. Li Mazi took me to a suburban pier where bungalows had been built close together; garbage was spread all over. Flies, bugs, and mosquitoes were buzzing... It was quite the disgusting sight. Most of the people living in this area were poor and often collected the waste.


    Li Mazi took seven or eight turns as he led the way. I blurted out, Li Mazi, you do have a lot of friends and acquaintances. Some live in vis, driving super expensive cars, and some live in ces where even birds dont bother to poop


    Li Mazi said, Little Brother Zhang, youre not getting it! Although a ce like this looks poor and shabby, this is where dragons mingle with fishes. Im sure many experts live here.


    We eventually stopped in front of a tattered house. There was a pair of New Years red couplets adhered to the door, although the red color had faded after a few months under the sun. It gave a somewhat lonesome look to the house.


    Li Mazi didnt knock on the door. He directly pushed it open and entered inside. Old Yao, you have visitors! Hurry, prepare good food and wine to receive us properly.


    An old man around sixty years old walked out of the inner room when he heard the noise. He wore a leather jacket that could easily date back to the nies.


    The mans back was severely hunched, and all of his hair was gray. Wrinkles covered his face together with several scars from knife cuts, and one of his pupils was milky white; it seemed that his eye had gone blind a while back. He looked rather scary at first nce.


    Old Yao knew Li Mazi but he didnt even bat an eye when he saw him. He quietly sat down in his living room.


    The room was permeated by the smell of Chinese medicine. Old Yao definitely lived up to his name.


    Li Mazi smiled and approached him. Old Yao, did you unearth something nicetely? Could you take out your treasures and let us see?


    Old Yao turned his head the other way, ignoring Li Mazis request.


    Li Mazi was thick-faced. Old Yao, I only visit you once a year. Its hard to get here, you know? Do you really have to treat me like this?


    Old Yao nodded. Yeah.


    Li Mazi became angry. You old calf, you already forgot the time you asked ME for help?


    I hurried to pull Li Mazi back since he was seething. He looked as if he were about to hit the old man.


    I respectfully said to Old Yao, Good day, sir. Im Zhang Jiulin. My family specializes in antique trading. Ive recently encountered something tricky, so Im here to ask for some advice.


    Old Yao shot me a look, looking interested. Then, he patted a stool. Kid, sit.


    I found Old Yao amusing. He talked as if people wereforcing him, with the wordsing out one by one.


    How could a person like him run a vending stall on the street?


    I heard that you dug out a precious item recently. A ck jade bracelet with a goldfish carving, right? I asked.


    Old Yaos eyes sparkled with caution. However, he still confirmed with a gentle nod.


    Do you still remember the one who bought the bracelet? Her name was Li Xiaoling, a university student. Shemitted suicide, andter on, her friends either had their lips sewed shut or also ended their lives. I wanted to ask if you knew the origin of the goldfish bracelet.


    Old Yao frowned, pointing at his wrist. Dug.


    He meant he had simply found the bracelet in a tomb. He took it from a dead persons wrist.


    I felt embarrassed, since I was reminded of my online searching the other night.


    This old man didnt happen to unearth Ruan Lingyus grave, did he?


    No, it cant be. ording to the records, Ruan Lingyus grave was in Shanghai. However, it was damaged after the Republic of Chinas period, and it didnt survive to our modern days. So, whose tomb would have this goldfish bracelet...?


    Old Yao shot me an assessing nce. He raised a hand, extending four fingers.


    What is he saying?


    Old Yao could tell that I didnt understand. He got up and went to his room. A momentter, he returned with a tattered, yellowed book.


    One could tell the book was very ancient. I could even perceive the moldy smell of the book from a distance. Old Yao showed me the book while pointing at a specific paragraph.


    My eyes followed his finger. It turned out to be an important paragraph.


    Late years of the Qing dynasty, Empress Dowager Cixis birthday. Since the Empress liked goldfish, one hundred bathtubs were ordered from the famous Daya House. Moreover, her subordinates had purposely dug out ck jade and created four bracelets with exquisitely carved goldfish on them. The bracelets were sent to Beijing via horse carriage.


    One fish lifts a clover coin, one wraps a clover branch, one spits flowery barbs, and one swallows a flower.


    Empress Dowager Cixi was extremely happy when she saw the four bracelets. She rewarded the courtiers with one thousand silver coins. She adored the bracelets and spent her time admiring them every day. But Empress Dowager Cixi fled the city when the Eight-nation Alliance burned Beijing, and the four goldfish bracelets disappeared ever since.


    ording to legends, the four goldfish bracelets must be together at all times. If theyre separated, their auspicious nature would change into an ominous one!


    It turned out there were four goldfish bracelets!


    I finally understood the situation.


    I returned the book to Old Yao. He received it and carefully held it close to his chest, just like a priceless treasure. Then, he made a throwing gesture, shaking his head with endless regret and saying, Crack.


    He meant the goldfish bracelet had cracks when he dug it up, so it wasnt really valuable.


    I was somewhat amazed that I could understand what he meant!

 Chapter 403: Five Emperor Coins and Rooster Blood

    Chapter 403: Five Emperor Coins and Rooster Blood


    Li Mazis obsessivepulsive disorder chose this moment to re up. Old Yao, dont you feel tired of answering with single words every time? Cant you just finish aplete sentence? Im getting old here listening to you!


    Old Yao shot him a nce and then took the book back to his room. Li Mazi continued shouting, All right, all right. Well see what happens when you need my help again in the future!


    Then, Li Mazi spat on the ground and added, Little Brother Zhang, we should go!


    I shook my head as I looked at Li Mazis retreating figure. Then, I bowed toward the inner room of the house as a farewell gesture to the old man. Senior, goodbye!


    Old Yao suddenly returned to the living room, and he shoved a crumpled piece of paper into my hand. I tilted my head to unfold it and read the content. It was a simple route drawing on the paper; it marked the location where he had unearthed the goldfish bracelet. For a grave robber, a grave he had visited was like a personal possession. He would never share the location if he didntpletely trust the other party.


    I was surprised as I looked back at Old Yao. I didnt know what made him decide to trust me. After all, it was the first time we had met.


    Old Yao still wore his calm and almost indifferent face. Then, he closed his door right in front of me with a loud bang. I couldnt help but smile. This old man was really something.


    Li Mazi was waiting for me outside. His patience had run out. Little Brother Zhang, we were wrong right from the start. We shouldnt have gotten involved in this case because of that forum post. Sigh, we could have been drinking tea and chatting about life in the antique shop right now. That should be the life we deserve.


    Its your fault for being greedy. An otherworldly merchant cant leave a deal unfinished once he epts it. You understand this rule as much as I do, dont you? I smiled as I headed to the pier.


    Li Mazi followed close behind me. Little Brother Zhang, you cant me this on me. I just wanted to earn some money for my retirement.


    Li Mazi, dont always focus on money! Sometimes, you must do charity work to earn good karma. I shot him a meaningful nce. Think of it as doing it for your son.


    Li Mazi immediately zipped his mouth shut. Although he didnt have many redeeming virtues, he had always taken good care of his son.


    It was easy to see that they were biologically bonded.


    I kept thinking on the way home.


    Li Xiaoling was wearing the goldfish bracelet when shemitted suicide, and she even slit her wrists to make sure her suicide attempt was sessful. Both her blood and resentful energy were absorbed by the goldfish bracelet. I was certain that the amount of Yin energy inside the bracelet had increased several times over.


    The next course of action would be to recover the goldfish bracelet.


    However, I didnt know how they had dealt with LiXiaolingsbody. It would have been quite troublesome if her body had been cremated.


    It would have been better to go to the University of Wuhan to find Zhuang Ning and have a talk with her, but I had to return to my antique shop with Li Mazi first as it was getting dark already.


    Li Mazi finished a whole bucket of KFCs familybo at my shop and left with a full stomach. I stayed up most of the night to study the map Old Yang had shoved into my hand and got up early the next morning, heading directly to Wuhan University after washing my face.


    It was the students breakfast time when I arrived at the institution. As luck would have it, I bumped into Zhuang Ning at the intersection.


    Her condition was the same; she still looked sick and had covered herself in a winter puffer jacket.


    Sheughed when she saw me. I can tell you really like Wuhan University. You should enroll soon Why not check out the admission process while youre here? Then, you wont need toe here every two or three days. Seriously, though, I dont know how I should picture you. All the students are losing it right now, and they would rather stay outside the campus. Youre the only one whos so happy toe here.


    I was beginning to notice that I couldnt keep up with Zhuang Ning whenever I met her, just as it happened with every other girl I faced. Sometimes, this would also happen when I chatted with Yin Xinyue.


    I took a few deep breaths and said reluctantly, Actually, I came here to see you.


    To see me? Zhuang Ning was bewildered. How can I possibly help you?


    Dont worry. Theres something you can help me with.


    Sounds good to me. Zhuang Ning nodded and said, I still havent had breakfast yet. Just buy me breakfast, and Ill help you.


    Why do people like using me to get free meals? I think my pocket will start bleeding soon!


    I was lucky that the food in the cafeteria was rather cheap, and Zhuang Ning couldnt eat anything too expensive. Each of us got a millet porridge bowl, then chose a couple of seats by the window. I looked at her with concern. You look sick. Why didnt your boyfriende to take care of you?


    Zhuang Ning smiled faintly. Actually, I dont have a boyfriend. I made that up.


    Why bother making that up? I didnt get it.


    Zhuang Ning smiled. Thats what female students do; theypete about everything. I often stay out of the dorms because of work. I didnt want people to say bad things about me, so I told them I had a boyfriend. Anyway, what did you want to ask me?


    How did they deal with LiXiaolingsbody? I asked.


    Zhuang Ning almost spat the porridge in her mouth. Its really hard for me to have some appetite. Do you really need to ask such a question while were eating?


    I smiled embarrassedly. My question was indeed out of ce.


    Zhuang Ning put down her spoon and sighed. Li Xiaoling hasnt been buried yet. Her remains are kept at the funeral home ording to her fathers wishes.


    Wheres the goldfish bracelet?


    Her father kept it. He wanted something to remember her by.


    It was a good thing that the goldfish bracelet hadn''t been buried.


    Zhuang Ning didnt look better after eating her porridge. She closed her puffer jacket, visibly shivering. Do you need to know anything else?


    I was surprised by her question.


    She gave me a contemptuous look as she said, The whole situation is bing too strange and dangerous... My studies will be affected if this continues. Im just doing it for myself.


    Would you agree if I asked you to go back to your previous dorm room? I probed.


    Zhuang Nings face turned pale in an instant; she looked at me with a face full of dread. To go back to the room where Li Xiaoling killed herself?


    I gave her a nod. I want you to go back to that dorm room and do one thing for me.


    Zhuang Ning took a deep breath. Do you really think that the lip-sewing incidents are rted to Li Xiaonings death? Shes dead already. How could she?


    Zhuang Ning was unable to finish the sentence. She looked at me with disbelief, just as if she had pictured something terrible in her head.


    I calmly exined. Sometimes, deceased people are much scarier than when they were alive.


    Is she a ghost now? Zhuang Ning was tense.


    A king among ghosts, I said casually.


    Zhuang Ning took another deep breath. Just who are you? Are you a Daoist priest?


    My face ckened.Why do people always think about Daoist priests when they hear about ghost hunting cases?


    Zhuang Ning kept silent for quite a long time before she asked me, If I go back to that dorm room, will you be able to solve this thoroughly?


    Pretty much. I answered without hesitating to encourage her.


    My approach worked, and she agreed to help me. All right! Im going to pack some stuff and return to my previous dorm room.


    No need to rush now. I stopped her and said, We still need to prepare a few things. It would be better if we could get the goldfish bracelet Li Xiaoling was wearing when shemitted suicide.


    Zhuang Ning held her head low and pondered. The goldfish bracelet? Leave it to me.


    My n was to get Li Xiaolings address through Zhuang Ning, and I would take it from there. It was unexpected that she would decide to shoulder this for me.


    Zhuang Ning said, Li Xiaoling and I were roommates for more than one year. I should pay a visit to her father now that shes gone. Anyway, it would be more credible than a visit from aplete stranger like you.


    Zhuang Ning was right, but I was worried about her health. Could she go outwith that weak body of hers?


    Zhuang Ning forced a smile. Dont worry. Im not going to die.


    I called Li Mazi after leaving Wuhan University. Li Mazis voice sounded dejected on the other end of the line. Little Brother Zhang, where did you run off to? I went to visit you early in the morning, but you werent home.


    Visit your sister! Im sure he went there for a free meal!


    I gritted my teeth, but I didnt expose him in the end. I went out to do something important. Li Mazi, you know the saying feed an army for a thousand days to use it for one hour, right? Ive been feeding you for so long, so its time for you to set off.


    What? Set off? Li Mazi was frightened.


    Crap, wrong choice of words.


    I hurried to rephrase, I mean, its time for you to go on stage. It will be a magnificent debut.


    Li Mazi swallowed his saliva. Whats happening?


    Please prepare some stuff for me, I said with a serious voice. One hundred Five Emperor Coins tied together with a yellow thread. All of them must be genuine; not even a single fake is allowed. Also, bring me one rooster, two meters of red fabric, and some ck dog blood.


    Li Mazi realized my goal. Little Brother Zhang, you want to use all of this to deal with that otherworldly item?


    Just do as I asked. Dont talk nonsense! I deliberately hung up.


    Zhuang Ning overheard my conversation, asking me in a low voice. Coins, rooster Ive watched some movies, and they used this stuff to deal with evil spirits. Are you going to use them to deal with Li Xiaoling?


    I gave her aforting smile. Dont worry. The whole procedure is very simple. In a while, Ill tell you how to do it, and youll understand immediately.


    Zhuang Ning was scared, and the corners of her mouth twitched.


    Having been her roommate for a while, Zhuang Ning knew Li Xiaolings house address.


    There was a time Li Xiaoling stopped going to school for a whole week, so the professor took Zhuang Ning with him to pay LiXiaolingsfamily a visit. That was why she had an impression of Li Xiaolings ce.


    It was just a normal family visit, but Tang Shuangshuang had used it to fabricate a story that Zhuang Ning had gone to a hotel with the professor.


    The story left me speechless.


    LiXiaolingshouse was located in the citys high-end downtown area. When we entered the neighborhood, Zhuang Ning told me, Stay here and wait for me. Li Xiaoling just died, and her father has been mourning her. Hes not going to be in the best of moods, and he may feel ufortable in front of strangers.


    Still, I couldnt be at ease. Zhuang Ning looked so feeble that I was afraid she could faint in the next second.Can she even carry on with the n?


    However, she rejected my good intentions and went upstairs alone.


    I waited for her for almost an hour. Li Mazi called me several times in the meantime, but he was mostly spouting nonsense. Little Brother Zhang, I cant find the number of Five Emperor Coins youve asked me to get! And, what about the ck dogs blood? You want a bottle or a barrel?


    I scolded him for a while, and I regretted letting Zhuang Ning go alone.


    No one knew if the goldfish bracelet had possessed LiXiaolingsfather or not. Zhuang Ning could be in grave danger if that was the case!


    However, I didnt know Li Xiaolings address, so I could only stand there and worry.


    Zhuang Ning reappeared after another half an hour. I noticed her face had turned even paler.


    I walked toward her in a hurry. Are you all right?


    I got it. Zhuang Nings pale face revealed a rare smile. I told her father that the goldfish bracelet was originally mine. Li Xiaoling was particrly fond of it, and she took it and wore it that day since I wasnt in the dorm room. I also told him that I didnt mind, but the goldfish bracelet was a memento from myte grandmother, so I needed it back. Her father didnt quite buy it, but he gave it to me in the end


    Zhuang Ning carefully took out the goldfish bracelet from her pocket and gave it to me. The bracelet looked brighter and more eye-catching; I guessed this was because it had absorbed Li Xiaolings blood. The ck bracelet currently had some sort of dazzling red color.


    Zhuang Nings fingers were trembling slightly, just as if she were enduring a freezing temperature.


    What should we do next?


    I contemted and said, We should go back to Wuhan University.


    I called Li Mazi on the way back to the school, asking him to meet me at the universitys entrance.


    When we arrived, Li Mazi was standing with a rooster in one hand and a bottle of ck dog blood in the other. Some students and security guards were looking at him.


    I hated the fact that I couldnt just storm over and kick him to death. Why didnt he mind his public image? Couldnt he just stand in some corner and wait for me?


    As expected, the students were quite curious about him and started discussing.


    Hes holding a bottle of blood, right? What is he doing here?


    Hes got a big rooster, too. Is he going to perform some magic tricks?


    Impossible. They might be local delicacies from someones hometown


    Li Mazi craned his neck and looked at me. He thenughed and walked towards me. Little Brother Zhang, what do you think? One hundred Five Emperor coins, not one more, not one less. All of them are chained together. Mission aplished!


    Aplished your sister!


    I hated that I couldnt just stab him with a knife!

 Chapter 404: The Evil Spirit Showing Up

    Chapter 404: The Evil Spirit Showing Up


    Li Mazi noticed Zhuang Ning was walking with me, and his face turned ugly.


    Well, well, well, who is this little sister? Little Brother Zhang, well done... You sent me out to do the grunt work while you were dating this girl. Sister-inw is on a business trip, so youve decided to make the most out of it!


    I rolled my eyes at him, but before I could even scold him, Zhuang Ning frowned and asked, Who is this person? I cant tell if hes a ghost or a human!


    I didnt pay Li Mazi any mind and burst intoughter.


    Li Mazi rolled his eyes, ring. Hey, little girl. Who are you referring to?


    Zhuang Ning shot him a disdainful look. Do you know that I only need to scream for you to be treated as a suspect, especially with the things youre holding? The guards will take you directly to the police station!


    Li Mazi was stunned. He said while pointing at me, He asked me to get all this.


    This was Li Mazis specialty. No one was faster than him when it came to selling out hisrades!


    I said through gritted teeth, Give me the stuff and scram.


    Then, I passed through the security check with Zhuang Ning, not bothering to give Li Mazi a second look.


    The security guard at the checkpoint held us back. Stop. What is all that?


    His eyes were full of doubt, and his hand was already grabbing the walkie-talkie. He would call for backup if I didnt give him a satisfying answer.


    Actually I shed an innocent smile. This is my friend, and were from the same town. She lived in the same dorm as the girl that killed herself, and she was greatly shocked by the news and got sick. She hasnt recovered yet, even after all this time. As such, I asked a friend to buy this rooster from the countryside and this bottle has duck blood. Im going to ask the chef at the cafeteria to cook her some chicken soup.


    The security guard shot a skeptical look at Zhuang Ning. She acted the part really well, coughing for added effect.


    The security guard sighed then waved his hand, dismissing us. Go, I will turn a blind eye today! This girl looks really sick.


    After we had gone through the security check and were walking inside the campus, Zhuang Ning finally eyed me and said, Looks like you dont need a script to tell lies. Theye out naturally as you speak!


    I was embarrassed. I learned this from Li Mazi, the one you said you couldnt tell whether he was a human or a ghost.


    Zhuang Ning snorted, clearly loathing the man.


    We went to the female dormitory. I sat on the bench outside, then I gave Zhuang Ning the stuff and advised, Tonight, after you go back to that dorm room


    Before I finished, Zhuang Ning was already pale due to fear. Tonight? Youre asking me to go to a ce where someone died at night time? I thought this could be done during the day.


    You cant go there during the daytime, I said as I tried to calm her. This stuff only works at night. Moreover, it would have the best effect if you go there around the time Li Xiaoling killed herself.


    Zhuang Ning gulped saliva, clearly anxious. Can I get someone to go with me?


    I was embarrassed to tell her no since she was definitely out of sorts.


    Zhuang Ning sighed and said, All right, just tell me what I have to do.


    I seized the time and exined, There are two pieces of red fabric. You should tear one of them in the shape of a cross and attach it to your body, then hang the other piece right where Li Xiaoling hung herself. These are one hundred Five Emperor Coins. ce them by the door. The Five Emperor Coins are full of Yang energy, and they will be able to scare off that otherworldly item.


    Otherworldly item? Zhuang Ning gazed at me with curiosity.


    What a tongue slip!I wished I could p myself.


    You asked me what I did for a living, right? Im an otherworldly merchant whose specialty is to deal with paranormal activities. This goldfish bracelet is an otherworldly item. Li Xiaolings suicide and the lip-sewing cases in this university are rted to this bracelet, I exined to her.


    Zhuang Ning was anxious as she looked at the goldfish bracelet.


    I continued with the instructions, This is ck dogs blood. Spray it on the rooms window. It can prevent the evil spirit from escaping. If it does escape, the consequences will be unimaginable. It will definitely kill more people.


    As for thest step... You have to kill the rooster and chop its head off. Then, throw the roosters head where Li Xiaoling hung herself


    What? Zhuang Ning screamed, Youre asking me to kill this chicken?


    She was on the verge of copsing after hearing my words.


    Erm, its a little cruel to ask a girl to kill a chicken, but I tried to soften my voice while keeping a serious tone. Perhaps its the only method to subdue the goldfish bracelet.


    Perhaps? Zhuang Ning interrupted, You dont even know if this method will work or not?


    I realized that she was good at finding the ws between my lines. Ever since I began working in this business, it was the first time someone had questioned my methods so boldly!


    I was definitely not pleased. Theres no perfect n in this world. I can only guarantee a 90% sess rate. Smart people think about a thousand solutions, but still, there will be mistakes. Have you ever heard this saying?


    Zhuang Ning thought, then nodded. My bad. Sorry.


    All right, after you throw the chicken head, ce the goldfish bracelet on the red fabric and pour chicken blood on it. That would be thest step of the process.


    Zhuang Ning recited the steps back to me to confirm. Then, she asked me, How about you? How should I notify you once Im done with the steps? A call?


    No need. I will stay inside the campus tonight. Ill hide in the bushes and wait for you. I then said with a more serious tone, However, we should exchange phone numbers to prevent any unwanted circumstances.


    I gave her my phone number. Zhuang Ning nodded and took the stuff to her room.


    I called Li Mazi and told him I was going to stay at Wuhan University tonight to subdue Li Xiaolings ghost. This news worried him.


    Little Brother, listen to me... Go home, now! You got a warm, soft bed at home. Why stay out in the cold wind? Whats your n?


    I really wanted to tell him that there were many things more important than money, but I knew he wouldnt understand. I ended the call and went to the cafeteria to have something for dinner. I deliberately lingered there until it was time for them to close.


    The sky waspletely dark, and Wuhan University was now shrouded in darkness. I checked the surroundings and hid behind the trees near the female dormitory when I confirmed that I wasnt being watched.


    I had to make sure that nothing unexpected would happen. Otherwise, I would be taken into custody as the pervert that had sewed peoples lips! It waste at night, and I was secretly keeping watch near the female dormitory. If the guards captured me... Not even a hundred mouths would be enough to exin myself.


    I was shivering, so I pulled my jacket close to my body. I would have worn more clothes if I had known I had to stay the night.


    The darkness grew thicker.


    Cold wind wasing from every direction, blowing through the trees. I stared at the well-lit female dormitory, wishing for time to move faster. I would be able to go home and have a nice sleep if this thing ended soon.


    Not long after, the lights in the building were dimmed and eventually switched off. It was a rule on campus that all the lights should be turned off after 10:00 PM. Right then, except for the dim glowing from the street lights along the paths, the entire Wuhan University had been swallowed by darkness. The cold wind howled as if someone was crying.


    My gaze was focused on Li Xiaolings window. Close to midnight, a red shadow glided through the window.


    She was there!


    After a while, Zhuang Nings figure appeared near the window. She followed my instructions and attached the red fabric to her body.


    I was restless while I watched the window. Zhuang Ning reappeared after a while. She looked terrified as she tried to make a phone call; her hands were shaking uncontrobly.


    I hurried to take my mobile phone out. Indeed, Zhuang Ning was calling me.


    Her voice trembled. I-I did as you told me. But somethings strange.


    What happened? Calm down. Dont be scared.


    Zhuang Nings breathing shortened. I did as you asked. I poured the chicken blood on the goldfish bracelet. However, it gave off sparks, and the red fabric I ced on the floor started to burn. The bracelet is now bouncing on the ground.


    The fabric is burning, and the bracelet is bouncing around?


    I had a bad premonition.Is there someone or something that is adding to Li Xiaolings resentful energy?


    Goldfish usually lived together, and there were four goldfish bracelets in total. If they had some special rtion, was the resentful energy of another person boosting Li Xiaolings power?


    I didnt have time to think further, so I shouted at the phone, Zhuang Ning, get out of that room, right now!

 Chapter 405: Looking For Old Yao

    Chapter 405: Looking For Old Yao


    I cant. Zhuang Nings voice sounded very weak. I cant get out.


    Then, a shrill female voice suddenly came from the other end of the call. You dared to stick your nose in someone elses business!


    Not good!


    I immediately got out of my hiding ce and dashed toward the female dorm. I simply banged my fists on the door, no longer caring about appearances.


    A drowsy, old woman came out with a shlight in her hand. Boy, its the middle of the night. Who are you looking for?


    Hurry, you need to go to the third floor! Something happened in Li Xiaolings room!


    What? The old woman was bewildered.


    Fortunately, the banging on the door had awakened the students living on the first floor; they got out of their rooms to check. Some of the bolder girls dashed to the third floor after hearing my words. A momentter, the entire female dormitory fell into chaos, and the girls started screaming. I hurried to step away and hide.


    The emergency light was turned on, and a group of security guards hurriedly carried the unconscious Zhuang Ning straight toward the schools clinic.


    I saw Zhuang Nings swollen lips under the dim street lights. A long, ck thread was hanging from her wrist, and although she was unconscious, her right thumb and index fingers were tightly pinching a needle.


    I opened my eyes wide in shock.


    She had sewed her lips herself! There was no perpetrator sewing peoples lips at the campus... The victims had done that to themselves. However, they didnt feel any pain while they were under the ghosts influence.


    The situation was even moreplicated than what I had expected. I would need to find the other goldfish bracelets if I wanted to solve this.


    But How can I leave the university?


    While I was trying to rack my brain for a solution, a hand patted my shoulder from behind. I jerked back in fright, seeing a familiar pair of eyes when I turned around.


    It was Shiso, wearing a blue disposable mask. He gestured in silence, asking me to follow him. Although he looked strange, I didnt have any other options at the moment; I hurried to catch up with him. Shiso took several turns until we reached a storage room stacked with broken chairs and tables.


    He asked, Did you find anything?


    I did. I nodded.


    Can you thoroughly subdue that ghost? Wang Nan and Tang Shuangshuang are dead. IfGe Xiaofeiis the next one, it will prove that anybody rted to Li Xiaolings case will die. That means, I I will also die.Shisoseyes were filled with fear.


    I tried tofort him, Dont worry. I have found an important clue! Ill work on a solution in the morning.


    Shiso was restless. He squatted down and asked, Why did this happen? I had nothing to do with this. Why were my lips also sewn shut?


    I didnt tell him that the people who had contributed to spreading the vicious rumors were considered Li Xiaolings enemies.


    I simply kept onforting him and asked him to go back to his room so he could rest. He asked before leaving, Youre an expert, right? You must help me. I dont want to die!


    Who would want to die? Still, just how desperate had Li Xiaoling be to decide to finish her life?


    After passing the night in the storage room, I went to the clinic as soon as it got brighter the next morning. The nurses and doctors were sleeping on their tables; they were all exhausted since they had to take action in the middle of the night to save Zhuang Ning.


    I quietly approached Zhuang Ning. She had an IV in her arm, and the wounds on her lips had been treated. I didnt want to disturb her since she was sleeping peacefully, so I silently left the clinic. After I had left the university, the first thing I did was to call Li Mazi.


    Get up already! Well gather at Old Yaos.


    Li Mazi sounded drowsy as he mumbled his protest, Little Brother Zhang, are you trying to snatch the roosters job? Why did you wake up this early?


    I said in a serious tone, Li Mazi, listen to me. The goldfish bracelets are much more dangerous than I had imagined. More people will die if we dont deal with them! We wont be friends anymore if I dont see you at Old Yaos today.


    How could it be this serious I didnt wait for Li Mazi to finish, and I simply hung up the call.


    Li Mazi still had some conscience. I saw him holding a cup of Master Kangs noodles when I arrived at the pier area. He was eating under Old Yaos dissatisfied gaze.


    Li Mazi stood up when he saw me. Little Brother Zhang, what do you think? Im a good friend, arent I? You called, and I directly flew here. Where would you find a good brother like me?


    I cut him off to speak with Old Yao. Senior, we have to ask you for help again! Please, take me to the grave where you found the goldfish bracelet. Some people died because of it, and I need to see the grave to find out about the bracelets origin. Please show us the way. There must be something else still buried in that tomb.


    Old Yao was surprised by what I said. He nodded and said, Go.


    Li Mazi held up his cup of instant noodles. Why are you in such a hurry? Is your butt on fire? Cant you wait until I finish my noodles?


    Old Yaos equipment was always ready. He took out tworge backpacks and started off. I helped him with one of the bags.


    Li Mazi gritted his teeth and threw the rest of his noodles into the trash can and followed us.


    Dont call me if you do something for freeter on. It really hurts my feelings


    While Li Mazi kept nagging, I told Old Yao about everything that had happened thus far. Old Yao seemed to be feeling regretful.


    I exined to him, This has nothing to do with you selling the goldfish bracelet to her. Its all because of the girls personality and the bad rumors. She was depressed, so she decided to walk on a deadly path.


    Old Yao nodded and replied, Young. Perhaps he meant Li Xiaoling had been too young to die, and it was something to be regretted.


    The ce where the grave was located was rtively remote. Fortunately, Old Yaos limbs were still strong and agile despite his age. He was even faster than Li Mazi and I.


    We had set out early in the morning, and when we stopped at this remote area in the forest, it was already around 3:00 PM.


    The forest was full of por trees, with cornfields on both sides.


    Li Mazi sat on the ground. I cant walk anymore. Ill end up with a disability if I take another step!


    Old Yaos face changed. He shouted, Up!


    Li Mazi stood up in a sh. What?


    Old Yao pointed at the ce on the ground where Li Mazi had just been sitting, responding in his curt style, Grave.


    Li Mazi had been sitting where Old Yao had unearthed a tomb.


    Li Mazi felt very unlucky. He spat on the ground and said, Holy crap, which bastardwould leavea grave without a tombstone?!


    Old Yao took out the digging tools from his bags. Li Mazi craned his neck to see. Old thing, this ce doesnt even have a tombstone. How did you manage to find this grave?


    Old Yao lifted his head and looked at the other party. Hinder.


    Er? Grinder what? What do you mean? Li Mazi opened his eyes wide.


    I pped his back and made him grimace. Old Yao means that youre getting in the way. Move!


    Li Mazi snorted. Since neither Old Yao nor I paid him any mind, he decided to run off to the nearby cornfield to steal some corn.


    Old Yao had dug the area before, so he was familiar with the process. He grabbed a shovel and began to dig without giving it much thought, not even trying to pinpoint the target. Once I saw how he went about work, his severely hunched back suddenly made a lot of sense.


    He had begun working as a grave robber when he was young and had continued to this day. There were three hundred and sixty-five days in a year. If a person hunched forward to dig the soil all year long, it would be strange not to end up with a hunched back.


    Old Yaos arms were strong, and his shovel moved continuously. Soon after, he had dug arge hole.

 Chapter 406: Mother and Child Linked Coffins

    Chapter 406: Mother and Child Linked Coffins


    There was a spare iron shovel in his bag. I rolled my sleeves without hesitation and started to help him dig the soil. Although I wasnt as good as Old Yao, I was young. Soon enough, we exposed the cover of a wooden coffin. Old Yao told me that he had found the goldfish bracelet inside.


    Can we open it? I asked. Old Yao shook his head resolutely. Every profession had its own rules. If Old Yao said no, it meant no.


    I thought for a moment, then suggested, We should continue digging. I want to see if theres something odd about this coffin!


    Old Yao didnt talk much. He wouldnt nag or babble like Li Mazi. After listening to my suggestion, he continued to dig without saying a word. We unearthed the entire coffin momentster.


    The coffin was made of cedar wood. From its appearance and workmanship, I guessed it had been buried for several decades But it wasnt damaged at all, which was quite strange.


    I walked around the coffin twice.


    Old Yao, who was buried here?


    Old Yao pondered for a bit and answered, Rich!


    Itshould be some richndlord...


    Except for the goldfish bracelet, did you find any other treasures? I asked.


    Old Yao said enthusiastically, Yuan!


    As he was afraid that I wouldnt get it, he made gestures to exin. I guessed he meant silver coins, the currency used during the Republic of China period. Since the coin had Yuan Sikais portrait on it, our folks called it Big Head Yuan.


    Whenever I had a question, Old Yao always replied with just one word. I had to use my understanding to the max to decipher his answers. If we kept on like this, I wondered how I would figure out the important stuff!


    While I was fretting, Old Yao took out four steel stakes from his bag and inserted them in the four corners of the pit. Afterwards, he took out a mat, securing its corners on the four stakes he had just installed.


    Using a mat to cover the pit, this was the step needed before opening up the coffin.


    I just looked at him quizzically because this made no sense to me. Old Yao gave me an odd smile, pointing at Li Mazi, who was stealing corn in the field. He meant he couldnt open the coffin, so I should ask Li Mazi to do that.


    Good idea!I thought.


    I called Li Mazi. Li Mazi,e here! I need your help with something!


    Li Mazi heard my voice, immediately running toward us. What is it? Did you dig out any valuable otherworldly items?


    I smiled and asked him to get down the pit and open the lid of the coffin.


    What? Youre asking me to open the coffin? Li Mazi paled, his brows mming together.


    Why? Are you afraid? I sniggered.


    Its not that Im afraid... Li Mazi hesitated. Its just that Old Yao is good at these tasks. He has much more experience than me. We shouldnt overreach ourselves and interfere with other peoples work


    After hearing this, Old Yao directly kicked Li Mazis butt from behind, making him fall into the pit. Hended on all fours like a dog, but he got up immediately and started cursing.


    I exined on behalf of Old Yao, Old Yao already opened this coffin once. Every profession has its own rules, and he cant open it a second time! Please, were counting on your finebor this time.


    Li Mazi was angry. Even if Old Yao cant do it, we still have you here, right?


    I have to wait up here in case something unexpected happens. If theres an otherworldly item inside, I can be ready to deal with it.


    Old Yao also got into the pit and gave Li Mazi one-word orders.


    Enraged, Li Mazi shouted, Cant you just finish your sentence at once? Its still broad daylight, you dont need to use your monkey tricks right now!


    Old Yao spoke quietly, Fool!


    Ipleted the rest of Old Yaos sentence in my head.


    It took Li Mazi a lot of time before he could open the coffin. The smell of decay inside the coffin was not too strong, perhaps because Old Yao had opened it recently.


    I looked down the pit and watched. Although the wooden coffin wasnt damaged, the body inside didnt share the same fate; only a white skeleton remained. Old Yao was a tomb robber with a conscience, so he took the goods without tampering with the body. Every bone in the coffin was neatly arranged as a human skeleton should. Nothing had changed.


    However, all the goods in the grave had been taken.


    Li Mazi craned his neck to take a look. You old bastard, your hands are quite fast You didnt leave anything behind.


    Old Yao red at him, but he didnt say anything.


    This coffin doesnt have the other goldfish bracelets! Was my spection incorrect? The cause of the problem doesnt seem to lie with this grave.


    However, Li Xiaoling has justmitted suicide. How could she already have the power of a Ghost King?


    What am I missing?


    Old Yao seemed to have found something. He suddenly squatted and grabbed a handful of soil to sniff it. His eyes brightened after that, and he swung his arms excitedly.


    Old Yao, what did you find?


    Old Yao pointed at the grave, implying that there was another coffin underneath.


    Li Mazi burst outughing. Nonsense! Who would bury two coffins in one grave? Youre an experienced fellow, yet you are using such cheap tricks to fool us!


    Old Yao didnt mind him. He grabbed his shovel and quickly started digging. I picked up the other shovel and helped him. However, we had only found mud and soil by the time it became dark; there was nothing else.


    Li Mazi seemed to be rejoicing in our misfortune as he stood watching next to us. Ha! What did I say? Old Yao fooled you.


    Old Yao acted as if he didnt hear him. He dropped his shovel and pointed at the sky. Late.


    The sky was indeed dark; we couldnt continue digging. Tomb robbers had their own rules, so I decided to listen to Old Yao and climbed out of the pit.


    Even though Li Mazi had continuously asked us to head back home, Old Yao sat by the coffin without moving. He meant that we should stay there tonight and continue digging the next day.


    Li Mazi was almost pissing himself in fear.


    Against his wishes, I agreed with Old Yao. All right, well do that.


    Li Mazi shook his head in despair. A crazy old dude and a crazy young dude! Youre both crazy!


    Stop nagging. You can go home if you dont want to stay here, but this is a wild area, and it will take you a few hours to go back. Its possible that you may encounter some evil spirit along the way I was trying to scare Li Mazi on purpose.


    Li Mazi immediately sat next to me, not saying a word. Since Old Yao would often camp in the woods, he was quickly able to make a bonfire. We half-roasted some corn and ate them. After that meal, we put on more clothes and went to sleep.


    Although we were in the middle of the woods, I quickly drifted into sleep thanks to the bonfires warmth.

 Chapter 407: The Truth Is Revealed

    Chapter 407: The Truth Is Revealed


    Old Yao woke me up early the next morning. I saw he already had dabs of mud all over his body; it seemed that he had started working alone before dawn.


    I felt a little embarrassed after looking at him. Old Yao hurriedly took me to the pit. He had dug close to three meters deeper, finally exposing part of a blood-red coffin that was under theyer of soil. My stomach tightened at sight.


    I would have never thought that this grave contained one of those child-mother linked coffins.


    These two coffins had been buried together, one on top of the other. In this case, it wasnt the child-coffin nurturing the mother-coffin, but the mother giving nutrients to the child. This sort of grave could suck the Yin energy within the neighboring dozens of miles and create an evil ghost very easily!


    Old Yao looked excited as he smiled at me. I didnt say anything and started digging.


    Li Mazi saw the red coffin the moment he woke up. He changed his tune in a sh. Old Yao, you do have keen eyes!


    Old Yao kept digging, not even deeming to spit a single word.


    We were busy the whole morning. We removed the soil, clearing all the way down to reveal the base of the second coffin when the afternoon came.


    This beautiful, crimson coffin was just half the size of an ordinary coffin. I had never seen this kind of coffin before.


    Old Yao was somewhat excited as he held a crowbar, ready to open the coffin. I thought about giving him a hand, but he waved at me, asking me to stay put on one side.


    The way Old Yao opened the coffin was swift and precise. Also, he lit up a white candle by the coffin before doing so.


    Li Mazi and I pinched our noses the moment the coffin lid was pried open. However, we didnt smell the stench of the dposed body. We only saw a mass of red air lingering around the coffin.


    Old Yao was scared, and he quickly moved aside.


    I knew it was resentful energy, simr to Li Xiaolings! It seemed that the goldfish bracelet had originated from here. After a few seconds, the white candle Old Yao had lit up flickered and extinguished. Grave robbers had another rule: they would leave the grave goods untouched whenever the candle went out by itself. Otherwise, the evil soul in the coffin would take their lives.


    Old Yao was surprised. He picked up the candle and ced it inside his bag.


    Li Mazi and I walked forward and were dazed by what we saw. A woman aroundtwenty-five or twenty-six years oldy inside the coffin. There was a thinyer of make-up on her face; her phoenix eyes were outlined, and her lips were red. She looked like a movie star. She wore a red cheongsam, and from the style and patterns of the fabric, her dress had been made during the time of the Republic of China.


    So many years had passed, but her corpse had yet to dpose. It was obvious that the otherworldly item had preserved it.


    Old Yao suddenly pulled the hem of my shirt, pointing at the womans wrist. I followed his finger, and I was shocked by what I sawthe woman was wearing three goldfish bracelets on her wrist!


    I gently pulled the cor of her dress and saw ck bruises on her neck.


    Is this woman Ruan Lingyu? The famous movie star during the Republic of China period whomitted suicide under the pressure of rumors?


    We searched the coffin. Although Ruan Lingyu was a movie star, she had only been buried with the three goldfish bracelets and a ck-and-white photo where she was posing with a handsome man. The man in the photo was of course Tang Jishan, Ruan Lingyusst lover.


    Although Ruan Lingyu had been a socialite, she had been raised in the countryside. She was all alone in Shanghai, so she had to try her best to survive and seed; she had tasted her fair share of hardships. She had once been married to Zhang Damin, a hardcore gambler. Not only had he lost all the savings and properties Ruan Lingyu had struggled to earn, but he had also forced her to drink with other men to pay off his debts.


    Ruan Lingyu couldnt endure such a life. She divorced Zhang Damin andter met Tang Jishan, the major shareholder of the film and televisionpany she was working for. Tang Jishan was a handsome and caring gentleman, and he wholeheartedly took care of her. Ruan Lingyu had been unable to resist his charm. Soon after, they started living together, bing a golden couple, a talented man and a beautiful woman that everyone admired.


    However, Ruan Lingyus ex-husband had continued trying to exploit Ruan Lingyu. He had spread a lot of bad rumors about her; one rumor had been multiplied to ten and then to a hundred. The rumors said that Ruan Lingyu had be a slut that anybody could sleep with, and she eventually couldnt bear the pressure and humiliation. She decided to hang herself with her stockings. She had only left a sentence in her suicide note, Gossip is a fearful thing.


    Since Ruan Lingyu had loved Tang Jishan deeply, those who took care of her funeral had buried her with a photo of them together


    It seemed that Ruan Lingyus resentful energy had been absorbed by the four goldfish bracelets, who had then reached the level of a Ghost King after being buried for a few decades inside this red coffin!


    Li Mazi lowered his voice to ask me, Little Brother Zhang, I think she''s the cause of everything. What should we do now?


    I frowned as I pondered for a long time. However, I couldnt find any solution.


    Old Yao suggested, Burn!


    Right, the fire would burn her grudge and resentment away. Ruan Lingyu will be able to reincarnate after that. Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust, as the saying went.


    I nodded. Good, lets find some wood!


    We crawled out of the pit and found a lot of dried wood in the forest, cing all of it on top of the red coffin. There was a bottle of aged liquor inside Old Yaos backpack. I took a sip and then sprayed it directly over the coffin. After that, I lit my lighter and threw it on the liquor-stained coffin.


    A high me rose with a burst. Among the loud, burning sounds, I seemed to hear a heart-rending howl.


    The big firested for two hours, burning the two coffins into ashes.


    I waited until the fire hadpletely subsided and went inside the pit to look. The three goldfish bracelets were lying quietly amid the ashes. Old Yao picked up his stuff, and we shoveled the soil to refill the grave. Then, we headed back home withplex emotions.


    On the way back, Li Mazi asked me, What had happened after all?


    I gave him a simple exnation.


    Ruan Lingyus reputation and dignity had been destroyed by rumors. Aftermitting suicide, her soul remained inside the goldfish bracelets, unable to move on. That is, until Old Yao robbed the grave, taking one of the four goldfish bracelets and selling it to Li Xiaoling. Later, she also killed herself under the pressure of rumors. Her resentful energy had merged with RuanLingyus, andvengeance ensued. That was why the lip-sewing incidents had taken ce at the University.


    Rumors came from their mouths, so the best revenge was to sew their mouths shut!


    Tang Shuangshuang had fabricated malicious rumors, and she was the first one to harm Li Xiaoling. Of course, she had also been the first one who got her mouth sewed shut. However, as time ticked by, Li Xiaolings resentful energy had been constantly growing; sewing lips was no longer enough to vent her anger. That was why she had killed Tang Shuangshuang and Wang Nan.


    Everything had started with an ill-intentioned rumor.


    Except for Tang Shuangshuang, the others were just curious and amused to see someone else in trouble. However, they had also contributed to spreading the rumor that Li Xiaoling was a mistress, forcing Li Xiaoling to kill herself, also harming themselves in the process.


    As the saying went, you could eat whatever you wanted, but you couldn''t talk irresponsibly.


    I shot Li Mazi a nce as I thought of this. This pal of mine was very talkative, and he spouted a lot of nonsense. Perhaps I would also sew his lips shut one day if my mood got the best of me.


    A few dayster, Zhuang Ning had finally recovered. She gave me a call.


    Everything at school is okay now. No more people got hurt. Is it really over? How are you going to deal with Li Xiaolings goldfish bracelet?


    If you like it, you can keep it as a souvenir. If you dont, just find a ce to bury it! However, remember to bury it with many tongues, I said.


    Tongues? Zhuang Ning was bewildered.


    Yeah, chicken tongues, duck tongues, ox tongues, or pig tongues. Li Xiaoling hated the people who were spreading rumors. I guess she would feel better if you bury those tongues along with it. Iughed.


    Youre a viin! Zhuang Ningughed and hung up the call.


    After returning to my antique shop, I spent the whole next week using Baidu to search for suicidal cases.


    I regretfully found that many female students had ended their lives because of malignant rumors in the past few years. They were beautiful young girls that people admired and should have had a bright future, but some malicious people had deliberately harmed them. The people who had once liked them had turned on them, also starting to spread vicious rumors. Under the severe pressure, they ended upmitting suicide. Although I had subdued the goldfish bracelets, I knew this story would never have an end.


    As long as people fabricated rumors, new goldfish bracelets would appear to sew their vile mouths shut!

 Chapter 408: An Odd Disease

    Chapter 408: An Odd Disease


    After the goldfish bracelets case was settled, I didnt get to see Li Mazi for quite a long time. Iter found out that he had gone on a trip to Australia with Ru Xue and Li Meng, and he would be away for a while. This was good news as I would have more time for myself. I closed the shop and stayed inside to enjoy some liquor and meat as I watched Korean dramas. I was ready to have a long home-vacation.


    Due to my personality, I preferred living in poverty than seeking wealth in dangerous endeavors. Moreover, a business case was enough for me to survive the next two to three years. I didnt need to take risks too often.


    I thought my peaceful life wouldst for a few months, but I saw a familiar figure squatting in front of my antique shop one night as I was returning home with the supper I had just bought.


    This person was none other than Li Mazi.


    He was gasping for breath and leaning on the door for support. He looked tired and worn out, just as if he had travelled a long distance to get there.


    I frowned and asked him, Li Mazi, didnt you take Ru Xue to travel abroad? Why did youe back this fast? Is everything okay? Also, if you want to borrow money, I have bad news for you. I dont have any money to lend you right now.


    Li Mazi almost choked after hearing my words. He wiped the sweat on his forehead, fuming, Do you think that I, Li Mazi, am someone who borrows money this casually?! This time, Ie to you for something important. Its to save someones life!


    My heart grew vignt when I heard him mention save someones life. His saving someones life had often pushed me to the edge of a cliff, almost making me lose my life. I knew this wasnt good news. That was why I declined right then and there.


    However, Li Mazi was honest enough to tell me that I would get all the payment after the case was solved. He wouldnt take a dime. It was actually touching, knowing him.


    Tell me, whats the problem? I have to know how hard it is to solve. Ill ept this case only if its something I can handle.


    I thought to myself,I will back off if its too troublesome. My life is important too!


    Li Mazi nodded as he entered my shop to drink a cup of tea. Then, he briefed me about the situation. His second uncle, who lived in the countryside, had a certain problem.


    He had contracted a strange disease, and every time the disease red up, he would do something that normal people couldnt reason and act like a lunatic. But Li Mazis second uncle was a very normal man before, and he had gotten this strange disease just recently.


    I frowned as soon as I heard that. If he had a mental problem, it would be best to go to the hospital. I was just an otherworldly merchant, not a miracle worker. Why did hee to ask for my help if it was some odd sickness?


    You should take him to the hospital so that he can get a thorough check-up. I shook my head and told him, Im not a doctor. I cant help this time.


    I turned around, nning to show Li Mazi to the door. But Li Mazi didnt want to leave. He clutched onto me tightly, trying to look miserable. My heart softened, so I gave him another chance to talk.


    It turned out the doctors were clueless when it came to figuring out what problem Li Mazis second uncle had. Every day, when the sun set, his uncle would leave the house and return around dawn the next day, with a mouth full of soil. Not only his mouth, but his teeth would also be covered with soil. He looked as if he had been possessed.


    However, he was normal during the day time,ughing and talking, shouldering water buckets or hacking wood; he could do all the normal tasks. However, he couldnt defecate when he felt the urge. He would scream continuously in pain while he sat in the toilet. Feeling helpless, his family had to take him to the districts hospital for a check-up. The X-rays showed that his stomach had been stuffed with soil. Of course, this would cause some horrible constipation


    Eventually, the doctors decided to give him a colonic cleansing. However, Li Mazis uncle continued his routine, leaving his home around twilight and returning with a mouth filled with soil.


    His family had to take him to the hospital for yet another colonic cleansing. Learning from experience, his family used a thick rope to tie him to the bed before the sun set. They thought everything would be all right. However, he still walked in from the outside with soil in his mouth early in the following morning.


    His family was deeply concerned, and then, they remembered Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi had been working away from home for years, and he was definitely more knowledgeable than them. Since his second uncle called him, how could Li Mazi not agree to help them? Feeling desperate, he had to return from his trip abroad to find me.


    I was puzzled. They would normally find a shaman when such things happened in the countryside.


    They specialized in curing evil diseases that afflicted people, while I was just an otherworldly merchant. I could deal with the problem if it were some otherworldly item, but this case sounded more like a possession case to me. I didnt have the necessary expertise in this field.


    I wanted to decline this case, but Li Mazi kept telling me how well his second uncle had treated him when he was young. It would be a betrayal to his past care if he didnt help him. Once again, I became soft-hearted and agreed to go with him to check. However, I warned Li Mazi that I would walk away if I couldnt deal with it. Li Mazi agreed.


    Actually, I had started thinking that it might have something to do with an otherworldly item. However, Li Mazi never mentioned any, so I couldnt be sure.


    Li Mazi drove me to his hometown that very night. I thought we would leave early in the morning, but Li Mazi insisted on setting out immediately. We should go early and return early.


    Before dawn, we arrived at Li Mazis second uncles vige, Huanghuai Vige.


    The road to Huanghuai Vige was really bad, so much so that our car couldnt make it past thest leg of the road. Li Mazi and I had to leave the car on the outskirts of the vige and walk the rest of the way. Heavy rain had fallen the night before, so we had to cross muddy puddles.


    Around thirty minutester, we arrived at Li Mazis second uncles house. I knew his family wasnt rich by looking at the tattered house. It was an old, tile-roofed house made in a countryside style, a four-wall construction with not many things inside.


    Once we entered the courtyard, we found that there was nowhere to ce our feet since the entire yard was filled with chicken and duck droppings.


    The dog barked loudly when it noticed the arrival of strangers. Its barking made me pay attention to it; it was a big ck dog with sleek, ck fur. It looked beautiful, quite pleasant to the eye. However, I noticed that it wasnt hostile to me but to someone else. This was surprising, so I turned around to look and found an old man sitting behind me. He had gray hair and a wrinkled face. Going by looks alone, he seemed to be more than sixty years old.


    I noticed the soil staining his mouth; everything seemed to be just as Li Mazi had told me. Moreover, I found he wasnt in his right mind, and his eyes were vacant. He looked as though he was being controlled.


    Uncle? Are you okay? Im Li Mazi. Remember me? Li Mazi was tense as he waved his hand in front of his second uncles eyes. However, his uncle acted as if he didnt see us. He went back to his room with a nk and somewhat dumb face. Li Mazi looked at me, clearly worried. I was also confused as it was the first time I had encountered such a situation.


    I had read somewhere on the Inte that poor people often resorted to eating soil, but it was my first time seeing it in person. I had no clues for now. I needed to investigate to rify things.


    Right then, a middle-aged man walked out of the house. I knew he was an honest farmer at first nce. His face was stiff, and his eyes were tired. It seemed he was deeply concerned.


    Brother Li, youre here. And, who is this mister? The middle-aged mans tired face brightened when he saw Li Mazi. However, he quickly focused his eyes on me.


    I looked too young, and Li Mazi had told them that he would bring over an expert. I didnt look one due to my age and appearance.


    Li Mazi was good at guessing peoples thoughts. He could easily read the middle-aged mans mind from his eye expression. He pulled me forward and introduced me, Dont underestimate this brother of mine. Although hes young, hes the number one or maybe number two in our line of business. Im not bragging here


    I felt embarrassed after listening to his exaggerated talk and didnt know what to say. I tensed up as I watched Li Mazi ttering me to make a good impression.


    Little Brother Zhang, allow me to introduce you. This is my cousin, our folks here call him Er Dan. [1] You can also call him that.


    His name sounded pretty straightforward and was also rather popr. In a vige as remote as this, Second Egg, Third Egg, Puppy, and Big Dog were allmon names.


    However, it was really awkward for me to call him Er Dan on our first encounter, so I decided to call him Brother Er Dan. I asked him to describe the old mans condition and situation.


    Obviously, Er Dan trusted Li Mazi. After Li Mazi made the introductions, his doubts were cleared. He wished to call me grandmaster, but I didnt dare to ept due to the embarrassment.


    The situation he described wasnt much different from what I had heard from Li Mazi. The old man had left the house at twilight and returned at dawn with a mouth full of soil, and he couldnt defecate.


    I found this strange. Even if some ghost had possessed him, it would be impossible to do the same thing at the exact same time every day. It was even more precise than a clock. Something ambiguous was taking ce.


    Brother, I have a question. Before your father got sick, did your family buy or collect anything strange? I didnt know how to exin what otherworldly items were to a naive farmer like him. That was why I had just asked a simple question.


    1. Er Dan means Second Egg.

 Chapter 409: Looting the Grave

    Chapter 409: Looting the Grave


    Something precious? Let me think. Er Dan scratched his head.


    Just when Er Dan was about to say something, Li Mazi became anxious and interrupted Er Dan, Their family is very poor. What kind of good items could they have? Cousin, if you say something wrong, it may worsen my uncles condition. Li Mazi seemed intent on preventing Er Dan from telling me something.


    Er Dan was really nave, and he immediately stopped talking as requested.


    There was clearly something strange here. Otherwise, why would Li Mazi be tense all of a sudden?


    If Li Mazi wanted to conceal things from me, I wouldnt let him off. I wanted to know what he was hiding.


    Oh well... Forget it, then. Li Mazi, shouldnt we take care of our stomachs first? I decided to change the topic, and eating breakfast was a great excuse. We had driven through the night to visit this vige, and we hadnt eaten anything. Moreover, we had walked on a muddy path since early this morning. My stomach was growling.


    Once breakfast was mentioned, Li Mazis stomach also started to protest. He asked Er Dan to prepare some food for us. But when the food was served, it was really hard to swallow. The porridge had a dark color, and it didnt even look edible. The pickles were old. I didnt know how long they had kept them, but they exuded a faint stench.


    I didnt feel adventurous enough to eat the pickles, so I simply drank the porridge.


    Li Mazis second uncle arrived while we were eating. His sanity seemed to have returned, and he looked like apletely different man.


    He ate porridge as he chatted with us. At this moment, he didnt look as if he were suffering from some mental disease.


    I took the chance to observe him carefully, and I found that something was off. His pair of stic boots had been stained with mud. As it had rained heavily the day before, it wasnt strange for his boots to have mud on them, but the color of the mud was different whenpared to the stains on our shoes. It was a yellowish-brown color!


    If I wasnt mistaken, only by walking around the cemetery would one get such stains on their shoes.


    Most of the time, coffins were made of wood. After years of being buried, the wooden materials would gradually dpose and enrich the soil; the soil color in such areas was usually darker than in other ces. So, the mud smeared on his boots was most likely from a cemetery. It proved that he had gone there to eat soil and mud at night. Such being the case, the search would have to begin at that cemetery!


    After Li Mazi had finished his breakfast, I told him I wanted to go out to check the area.


    Where do you want to go?


    Take me to the cemetery.


    Li Mazi was shocked after he heard the word cemetery. He asked me with a puzzled face, Why would you need to go to the cemetery?


    I didnt have the mood to babble with him. Just take me there. Youll see.


    As we walked on the muddy road, Li Mazi told me, Its not good to go to the cemetery in the morning. We should wait until noon.


    I simply ignored him. I wasnt the old Zhang Jiulin anymore. Would I be afraid of ghosts?


    Soon after, Li Mazi brought me to the cemetery of Huanghuai Vige. In the countryside, people would normally bury their dead in the same area. That was why the graves were rtively close to each other. However, I had to say that this cemetery wasnt that different from a mass grave. Many graves didnt even have a tombstone, and grass grew everywhere, giving the whole ce a disorderly look. I wanted to walk further for a better view, but Li Mazi stopped me.


    Little Brother Zhang, I should tell you in advance. This ce is very strange and dangerous. I wont be able to exin the situation to my sister-inw if something bad happens to you. We should wait until noon and return to take a look when theres plenty of sunlight! Li Mazi said as if he were afraid of this ce from the bottom of his heart.


    Just from the graveyards overall appearance, I guessed that something really bad had happened here in the past. Li Mazi would not be this afraid if it were otherwise. He had been working with me for years, so he was used to this stuff. The only exnation was that this ce had somehow traumatized Li Mazi when he was younger. His terror was evident when we reached the cemetery.


    I had a strange personality. If someone told me that I shouldnt go to a ce, I would dash there straight away, especially when that person was Li Mazi. Since he had lied to me during the trip, I didnt want to listen to him.


    Since he couldnt stop me, he could only muster his courage and follow me.


    I kept my head low while we walked. Li Mazi was surprised, so he asked me, What are you doing?


    I told him about my findings this morning. Im looking for your uncles footprints.


    It was fortunate that it had rained heavily the day before. This kind of mud would be really sticky with rainwater, and anyone passing through would leave deep footprints. There was also the fact that no one would visit this graveyard in the middle of the night, given how scary it was.


    Therefore, we would only find footprints of Li Mazis uncle from the previous night. Once we found his traces, we would know where he had gone to eat soil!


    I found many footprints after searching for a while; they all belonged to Li Mazis second uncle. I followed the trail while Li Mazi followed close behind me, almost scared out of his wits. He muttered some sort of warning, but I didnt catch it. Soon enough, we reached the final footprint.


    This ce had a lone grave, hidden in high grass. I had to use my hands to part the grass screen so that we would have a better view. We saw a tombstone once the grass was out of the way; it waspletely covered in green moss, and it seemed quite old.


    However, the words carved on the tombstone were well-preserved.


    The deceased was a person called Niohuru. Except for the name, the tombstone had nothing else. ording tomon practice, there should be more information carved on the tombstonefor example, the date of death, age, and the name of their family members.


    This tombstone only had a simple name. It seemed like he had been buried in a hurry!


    We could see there was a portion of soil that had been dug up right under the tombstone. It should be the ce Li Mazis uncle ate soil from, night after night.


    Li Mazi, give me a hand. We need to unearth this grave, I said.


    Li Mazis face immediately turned green after he heard me, and his body shivered visibly. Little Brother Zhang, youre kidding, right?


    The ultimate taboo was to dig up someones grave. Let alone other matters, if the family of the deceased found out about this, Li Mazi would surely be beaten to death or crippled.


    He didnt have the guts to do it. Moreover, there were no tools he could use.


    Are you going to dig or not? If not, we can leave. But if I do leave, it means I will wash my hands of this case and no longer care about your second uncle. I threatened him as I turned around, pretending to leave.


    Li Mazi was anxious and didnt want me to leave.


    He hastily grabbed me, gritting his teeth. All right, all right. Ill dig the grave, but you have to stay and keep watch. We have to run immediately if someonees.


    I smiled and gave him an encouraging nod.


    Actually, I just wanted to tease Li Mazi since he had lied to me, hiding some information.


    After he saw me nodding, Li Mazi mustered his courage to walk to the tombstone. I enjoyed watching him act as if he had been forced to eat some poop.


    Little Brother Zhang, could there be another solution? Do I really have to dig up this grave to save my uncle? Li Mazi almost began to sob. I could clearly sense his fear.


    By then, I knew it was enough of a scare. It wouldnt be good to push things too far.


    I went straight to the point. All right, shouldnt you be telling me the truth by now? Spit it out, whats the item your uncle took?


    Im sure he hasnt picked up anything. You have to believe me! said Li Mazi with a righteous tone.


    If thats the case, you should dig that grave! Or else, youll have to prepare your uncles funeral. I sighed.


    Li Mazi was anxious. He knew he couldnt hide it anymore. He had to tell me the truth.

 Chapter 410: The Odd Story of the Evil Chamber Pot

    Chapter 410: The Odd Story of the Evil Chamber Pot


    Half a month before, Li Mazis uncle found a strange item, and he changed since then.


    Huanghuai Vige was poor because the soil was quite barren. No matter what they nted and how they tried to fertilize, nothing worked. The vigers were helpless. In the end, they could only exploit the area close to the graveyard.


    The soil around the graveyard was fertile. Although it was a strange and somewhat scary ce, it seemed to be safe enough as long as they went to take care of their nts during the day time.


    One afternoon roughly two weeks back, Li Mazis uncle went to the graveyard and started using his hoe to prepare the soil. He hit something hard while working. At first, he didnt pay attention as he thought it was just a rock. However, he found something strange as he dug further. That thing wasnt a rock, but something metallic as his hoe created angingsound when he struck down. This time, it did catch his attention.


    Li Mazis second uncle liked watching TV shows, and he often saw how people unearthed treasures, going from rags to riches overnight. He thought that his great fortune had finally arrived. Emboldened by this thought, he dug up that thing with redoubled effort.


    However, the itemter turned out to be a rusty copper pot.


    He was so angry that he almost hacked the copper pot to pieces. He had wasted so much time on a useless item, and anyone would feel ufortable after such a discovery.


    However, it would be a pity if he damaged it. He thought for a while and decided to take it home, with the n of using it as his own chamber pot. In the countryside, vigers didnt like to go out to pee when they woke up at night. This pot could be quite the handy addition to his house.


    Li Mazis uncle took the copper pot home. However, he began acting oddly not long after, and he contracted this strange disease thatpelled him to eat soil unconsciously.


    I was bewildered after learning about the real situation.Whats wrong with these people? They didnt even know the origin of the pot and dared to use it to pee?


    By then, I could easily conclude that the copper pot had to be an otherworldly item. Li Mazis uncle had peed on it, so it was understandable that the item was angry. Now, I needed to know more about the pots origin before considering solutions.


    I turned around and was ready to leave when Li Mazi stopped me. Where are you going?


    Fuming, I replied, Im going back to get some sleep.


    Li Mazi didnt understand the situation, and he wasnt satisfied with my answer, so he dashed forward to grab my arm. Didnt you tell me to dig up this grave?


    You can dig it if you have nothing to do and youre bored.


    Li Mazi finally understood that I was ying tricks on him. He was angry, but he knew he had to rely on me. That was why he held it in and kept fawning over me.


    I burst outughing.


    When we returned to his uncles ce, Li Mazi asked his cousin to arrange a room for us so that we could rest. I thought that we would have separate beds, but then, I knew that would be asking too much. There was only one spare bed in this house. Li Mazi and I had to make the best of a cramped bed.


    When we settled on the bed, Li Mazi began to throw his questions. When will you help my second uncle?


    In the end, he even asked me, How should we divide the loot?


    This thick-faced fellow now wanted a share of the money. I immediately shot him a disdainful nce.


    After talking for a while, we drifted into sleep since we were quite tired.


    It was almost night time when we woke up. Er Dan called us out for dinner.


    While we ate, I noticed another issue.Why are there no women in this family?


    I asked Er Dan about it. He gave me a simple answer. My wife took my daughter to her parents ce. Since strange things were happening, I was afraid it would affect the kid.


    I also noticed that he answered me while looking at Li Mazis face, as if asking him to y along. Li Mazi winked at him. I felt that something strange was taking ce, which made me put up my guard.


    I had a strange thought at this moment.Does Li Mazi want to harm me somehow?


    It was a fleeting thought, which I immediately erased. Although Li Mazi was a greedy person, he wouldnt do anything directly or indirectly harmful to people. He had a nasty personality, but he didnt have enough courage. Even if he were given a knife, he wouldnt kill anyone as he simply didnt have the guts.


    After dinner, Li Mazi couldnt wait any longer. He hurriedly asked me about what to do next. Actually, I did already have a n, as this case wasnt difficult to solve. If nothing unexpected happened, I guessed we could easily finish it tonight.


    First, you need to take out that copper pot.


    However, Li Mazi made an awkward face. Later, I learned that since the family thought the copper pot would bring them bad luck, they had thrown it straight into the river. It happened on the third day after Li Mazis uncle had an incident.


    I thought I had misheard them.They threw it into the river? Why did they invite me to solve this in the first ce?


    I shook my head and told Er Dan to prepare for his fathers funeral.


    When they heard the word funeral, Er Dan became anxious. He cried and hugged my legs as he knelt in front of me. Please save my father!


    Little Brother Zhang, you also saw that my second uncle is a poor man. You cant just stand and do nothing while he dies. I remember we have a method called ce a substitute by subterfuge.


    I think itll not be a big deal to you with your skills. Please, Im begging you. For the sake of our friendship, save my second uncle, Li Mazi also begged me.


    One was firmly grabbing onto my right leg, while the other clung onto my left leg. Even if I wanted to run away, I couldnt.


    The ce a substitute by subterfuge Li Mazi had mentioned wasnt a trick of otherworldly merchants but one belonging to tomb raiders.


    When the tomb robbers raided some big tombs, there were things on the tomb owners body that they shouldnt take. For example, the night pearl in the mouth, the mind-calming jade on the neck, or the anus sealing plug. The corpse would be a zombie if they took those things. That was why their ancestors had invented a technique called ce a substitute by subterfuge.


    The trick was to use ordinary items to rece the precious ones and deceive the dead. However, this technique was extremelyplicated, and I only knew of it from the books my grandpa had left me. I didnt know the detailed steps, so how could I use it to save someone?


    But they were hugging my legs and begging me. My heart would not be at ease if I didnt help them.


    I was a soft-hearted man, so I could only grit my teeth.


    Let me tell you that this is my first time using this method. If something unexpected happens, dont me it on me.


    Li Mazi nodded repeatedly. What should we do next?


    I was also unsure. The usual method, with the otherworldly item present, would be to wait for Li Mazis uncles sickness to re up. Then, we would need to follow him to deal with the evil soul inside the otherworldly item.


    But it would be moreplicated at the moment. It was my first time tryingtoce a substitute by subterfuge. I could only rely on my memory to remember the steps.


    I asked Er Dan to get a y pot. This type of item wasnt rare in the countryside, and he could get one easily. Then, I made a list of herbs that Li Mazi would have to buy at a traditional Chinese herbal pharmacy. They were all the herbs that could subdue Yin energy.


    Aside from that, I still needed a bottle of ck dog blood. ck dogs were the nemeses of evil spirits. If we had some ck dog blood with us, even if our n failed, the evil soul would not harm us.


    Li Mazi said it wasnt a problem because his uncle had a big ck dog in the house. However, Er Dan was hesitant. We cant kill the dog. Its been with us for almost ten years. Its a member of this family.


    I was somewhat at a loss for words. I could only ask him to look around the vige and buy another ck dog. It wasnt easy to extract the blood, and Er Dan started to struggle with the animal in an attempt to bleed it out.


    If I hadnt discovered them in time, who knew how much time they would have wasted. I stopped them and asked Li Mazi to knock the dog out. After that, we extracted the blood easily.


    We had finally gathered all the items. Now, we needed to wait until after midnight. It was going to be a long wait.


    Li Mazi and I were all right since we had a nice nap in the afternoon, but Er Dan was exhausted. I asked him to go to bed.


    As such, only Li Mazi and I were left to guard the door.

 Chapter 411: Substitute by Subterfuge Formation

    Chapter 411: Substitute by Subterfuge Formation


    The wind at night was really strong. Li Mazi and I shivered like leaves in the wind.


    If we hadnt asked Er Dan to prepare some clothes for us, we would have nearly frozen.


    I was impatient. Li Mazi, when will your uncle leave the house?


    Around midnight.


    It was just a few minutes until midnight, so I started to prepare myself. Li Mazi likewise hid outside the door.


    A momentter, we heard the door squeak.


    Li Mazis uncle walked out of the house. At this moment, he looked exactly like the old man we had seen in the morning. His face was dazed, and his eyes had no focus. The way he walked was simr to a puppets.


    If anyone saw himte at night like this, that person would be scared to death.


    Li Mazi got up and waved his hand to check if he could wake his uncle up. However, it didnt work as his uncle was possessed. Even if he kicked the old man, he wouldnt wake up.


    Li Mazi and I silently followed him. Although he was walking strangely, he was rather quick. We had to run after him to catch up with him.


    I thought that Li Mazis uncle would go to the graveyard, but he didnt.


    Instead, he led us around the vige, and the two of us were exhausted after running around. Eventually, he stopped at a dry well outside the vige. He knelt and began to cry his heart out.


    However, his cries sounded strange. They sounded like sharp shrieks that echoed in a big cave. It was ear-splitting and unpleasant.


    Shoot, what does this ghost want to do? Li Mazi covered his ears and walked toward his second uncle.


    I pulled him back. What are you doing?


    I cant stand it. I want to go there and kick him. Dont stop me. Li Mazi looked annoyed. If he had to continue to listen to this noise, his brain would burst.


    But I couldnt let him go. If we provoked the evil soul, we wouldnt be able to get rid of it.


    After my warning, Li Mazi had to control his temper. However, he looked ufortable, and sweat covered his forehead.


    Afterward, I heard from Li Mazi that whenever he heard such cries, he would feel very ufortable. The sensation was like having thousands of ants running madly around his body.


    While watching Li Mazis uncle, I couldnt help but frown.


    This situation wasnt what I had imagined. If he came here every night to cry, where was the soil that filled his stomaching from? And, what could exin the footprints at the graveyard?


    While I was deep in thought, Li Mazis situation turned worse. His face paled, which made him look like a dying patient with a serious sickness.


    I didnt know how to help him. While we were in a deadlock, his uncle stopped crying and walked away.


    I didnt dare to linger and grabbed Li Mazi, running after him.


    He didnt roam around but directly headed to the graveyard.


    As I watched Li Mazis uncle enter the graveyard, my tense heart rxed. It seemed my guess wasnt wrong.


    He went to the ce I had found this morning, knelt in front of the tombstone, and started to dig the soil with his bare hands. Then, he shoved the soil into his mouth. The noise he made while chewing the soil was simr to someone eating wax.


    After seeing the scene, I shivered in fright. Li Mazi patted me, which woke me from my daze.


    I rubbed my nose and felt a little embarrassed. Li Mazi, take the stuff out and get ready. As you know, this is my first time performing this technique. If it fails, dont me me.


    Li Mazi nodded then arranged the stuff we had brought.


    I recalled the formation in my head and arranged the herbs in a circle, cing the pot at the center. I sat down and then lifted my head to look at the sky.


    Li Mazi saw me looking upward. He was puzzled. Little Brother Zhang, what are you doing? You should perform the technique and save the man. My uncle is eating mud again. If he finishes eating, his bowel


    I shot him an angry look. Listen, this technique requires the right time and the right conditions. The right time is when we cant see the moonlight, and the moons bright and high right now. If we perform the technique, well fail. The goal of the technique is to escape the eyes of the evil spirit and seize that chance to swap the items. Thats why we have to wait until there is no moonlight.


    It was good that it was windy tonight. Not far from us, I saw a big mass of dark clouds. I guessed we needed to wait for around fifteen minutes.


    After listening to me, Li Mazi didnt disturb me and went to stop his uncle from eating the soil.


    But as soon as he touched his uncles arm, he screamed and stumbled, running back to me.


    Little Brother Zhang, that scared the crap out of me! Somethings wrong with my uncle! screamed Li Mazi.


    When Li Mazi went to stop his uncle, he couldnt move him at all. Li Mazi had used all of his strength to force the old man to stop, but he didnt seed.


    Moreover, his second uncles arm didnt have any warmth. It felt like an iceberg.


    I frowned. Arent those the characteristics of a dead body? But his uncle is alive... Why did his body feel cold?


    Anyway, I didnt have time to think about it since the clouds had already covered the moonlight. I knew there was no time to waste, so I instructed Li Mazi to give me the ck dog blood.


    The ck dog blood only filled half of a bowl, and I could smell the stench when I received it. Following my memory, I dipped my finger into the blood and drew a formation on the ground.


    It took me around ten minutes to finish the drawing. Fortunately, I was able to finish before the moonlight reappeared. Otherwise, everything we had prepared would have been in vain.


    When the moonlight reappeared, the magic formation underneath me glowed a faint red light.


    When I saw this, I felt happy since the technique had worked. I remembered that only a sessful formation would emit red light.


    Hey, my second uncle isnt eating soil now. Hes approaching us! Li Mazi sounded terrified.


    Did something go wrong with the technique?It shouldnt be. Everything happened as described in the book...


    To be safe, I hurried to pull Li Mazi aside. However, we soon noticed that Li Mazis second uncle didnt walk toward us but toward the pot at the center of the formation.


    He picked it up and sniffed it. Then, he hugged it as if he was afraid that the pot would fly away from him.


    I nodded. It seemed our ce the substitute by the subterfuge technique had worked.


    Little Brother Zhang, what should we do now? Li Mazi heaved a sigh of relief.


    Dig up that grave and bury the pot. We need your second uncle to make three kowtows at the grave. That will do, I said.


    It had been simpler than I had expected, and I wasnt used to this feeling.


    Unfortunately, there would be no pay this time as they had thrown the original copper pot away. I could only consider it as a charity event.


    Li Mazis second uncles family was very poor, and they were already struggling to make ends meet. I couldnt ask them for money.


    You really want me to dig it up? Li Mazi gulped.


    I gave him a confirming nod, so he clenched his teeth and started to work.


    Li Mazi hastily dug a small hole and put the pot in it. After leveling the ground, I helped him force his uncle to do three kowtows in front of the tombstone.


    By the time everything was done, it was around four oclock in the morning. We brought Li Mazis uncle back to his home.

 Chapter 412: Second Uncles Death

    Chapter 412: Second Uncle''s Death


    Since we were exhausted, we fell asleep the moment we crawled into bed.


    However, before dawn, I heard Er Dan cry from the room next to ours. Dad! Dad, what happened to you?


    I wanted to ask Li Mazi to go there and check, but he was sleeping like a dead pig. I had to get up and check out the situation myself. I put on some clothes and went to the room next door.


    What I saw made me shudder. Li Mazis second uncle was lying on his bed, and his face was as white as a sheet of paper. His eyes had rolled to the back of his head, and his mouth was stuffed with yellowish-brown mud and soil.


    Er Dan was crying loudly, and his voice was almost gone from crying so much. I wanted to ask him what had happened, but before I could ask, he stormed toward me and tried to strangle me with his muscr arms.


    I wanted to get rid of him, but Er Dan was a farmer with exceptional strength. How could a city boy like mepete with him? My face turned red. I couldnt breathe and was afraid that I was going to die.


    I wanted to scream for help, but I couldnt even do that. Right when I thought I was finished, Li Mazi came in and kicked Er Dan away. I seized the chance and gasped for my breath.


    Cousin, have you gone mad? Dont you know that you could have killed him? Little Brother Zhang, are you okay? Li Mazi hurried to support me up.


    When Er Dan saw Li Mazi, he returned to his senses. He still wanted to assault me, but Li Mazi stopped him.


    Li Mazi, move aside. I have to kill this guy. If it werent for him, my father wouldnt have died! Its him! Its all because of him! I dont care. He must pay for my fathers life! thundered Er Dan. If looks could kill, he could have killed me a hundred times already.


    What did you say? Uncle is gone? Li Mazi hadnt predicted this oue and was stunned.


    From Li Mazis eyes, I knew that he was also angry, but he was saner than Er Dan. He knew it was the otherworldly item that had killed his second uncle, not me. However, the death of his second uncle was somehow rted to me.


    Did our ce the substitute by subterfuge fail? asked Li Mazi.


    I shook my head because I didnt know. It was the first time I had used this technique, but ording to the description in my grandpas journal, it had worked. Thus, the problem didnte from me.


    I carefully recalled the details, and I found that every time I mentioned the otherworldly item, both Li Mazi and Er Dan gave me unclear answers. That was suspicious.


    I immediately asked, Did you hide something from me? Or, to be exact, could it be that the otherworldly item wasnt thrown away?


    When I said that, Li Mazi and Er Dan changed their expressions as if they were busted. They looked flustered for a moment, but they quickly got a hold of themselves.


    Still, I had caught onto this tiny change.


    This matter wasn''t as simple as I had thought. One could even say that Li Mazi and Er Dan had indirectly killed the poor old man.


    Why arent you talking? Are you both mute? Ive asked you a question! Someone has died, and if that otherworldly item chooses you as the next target, dont ask me for help, I fumed.


    They asked for my help, but they didnt even tell me the whole truth. And now that someone has died, they want to me me for his death! Do they think that Im stupid?!


    Li Mazi knew he couldnt hide it anymore. Sigh! It was me. If I wasnt so greedy, my second uncle wouldnt have died. It was my fault.


    Then, he pped himself three times really hard, breaking the silence in the room. Er Dan grabbed Li Mazis hands, making him stop.


    A trickle of blood oozed from the corner of Li Mazis mouth. It seemed he had hit himself pretty hard.


    Li Mazi, it was me. It was my greed that harmed my father, cried Er Dan.


    I was dumbstruck.Whats going on?


    I wasnt in the mood to watch them cry, so I thundered, Stop crying and tell me the truth. Li Mazi, you first!


    Li Mazi pondered for a while before telling me the story from start to finish. It turned out that they didnt fabricate much of the story. His second uncle did unearth a bronze pot in the field, and he had used it as a chamber pot, starting to eat soil soon after. The only difference was that they didnt throw the pot away.


    At first, they thought of doing that as it was an unlucky item. But that day, Li Mazi came back from abroad and took his uncle to the hospital, catching Er Dan before he had a chance to throw the pot away.


    Li Mazi had keen eyes, and he knew that the pot was an antique. He bragged about the possibility of curing his second uncle and selling the copper pot for a good price. If they did that, Er Dan could receive some benefits from the transaction.


    Er Dan was a nave man. He thought that he could save his father and earn some money, so he had quickly agreed with Li Mazi.


    Now the problem was the otherworldly item itself. If it was at home, I would take it with me after saving his uncle, so Li Mazi decided to ask Er Dans wife to bring the copper pot to her parents house. Since women had stronger Yin energy, the otherworldly item wouldnt attack her. She wouldnt be the next target.


    Because of these hidden details, the worst thing had happened.


    I immediately understood why Li Mazi found it hard to answer my questions and why there was no woman in this house. They were deceiving me from the start.


    Li Mazi, if I dont rip you off for good, then I wont bear the name Zhang!


    I said, If you want me to help, its possible. However, we need to talk about the fee. Not only will I take the otherworldly item, Li Mazi, I must also make you bleed!


    If I didnt consider my years of friendship with Li Mazi, I would have left already and washed my hands of this case. Moreover, this otherworldly item was among the three types that should not be collected since it was an item that could kill people directly.


    However, I was helpless in this situation. Looking at Li Mazi and Er Dan, my conscience didnt allow me to leave. I could only rip them off and then help them.


    I dont need the otherworldly item, and I will give you one hundred thousand renminbi from my savings. Little Brother Zhang, you must help us! shouted Li Mazi.


    If you dont think thats enough, Ill sell this house and pay you with cash. Please, please save my family! Er Dan knelt in front of me and gave me three kowtows, banging his head loudly on the ground.


    I didnt want to see that, so I hurried to stop him.


    All right, I will help you. Also, I wont take your home, I said.


    After all, it wasnt worth much money.


    Li Mazi knew my anger had subsided. He asked, What should we do now?


    I shot him a fierce look. You should buy a coffin for your second uncle. His corpse looks too scary, and we cant leave him in the open. However, you will have to wait for a few days before burying him. If you bury him now, the other vigers will be suspicious. The weather is cold, so nothing will happen even if we wait a few days. However, Er Dan, you must be careful and should put the coffin in a well-locked room. We dont want to let any cats or other animalse in. We dont want any more trouble.

 Chapter 413: Eight Banners General

    Chapter 413: Eight Banners General


    I asked Er Dan to bring his wife back home. Actually, it didnt matter if his family was here; the important thing was for him to bring back the copper pot.


    Before I saw the pot, I couldnt do much!


    Er Dan didnt waste time and rode away in his old motorcycle without having breakfast. He was gone for the whole day, and when he returned with his wife, it was already night time. It was a long journey.


    As soon as Er Dan walked into the house, he gave me a big bag. From his sweaty appearance, I knew that the bag wasnt light. I hurried to receive it and almost stumbled. This thing was really heavy. I wondered what this pot was made of as it weighed dozens of kilograms.


    Er Dans wife came in with their daughter. I had thought that his wife wouldnt be different from other women living in the countryside, who usually had dark skin and were rustic looking. But I waspletely wrong. His wife had a bright skin tone, and she looked like someone who worked at an office. She was in her early thirties and could be said to be a beauty.


    I hadnt expected that a naive-looking man like Er Dan could have such a beautiful wife. And, their daughter had grown up differently from her father. She had white skin and big, watery eyes. She gave people afortable, pleasant impression. This family of three looked strange. If they stood together, people would think that Er Dan was their servant.


    Grandmaster, are you all right? Er Dan waved his hand in front of my eyes as he saw that I was stunned.


    Its nothing. I shook my head indifferently.


    You should continue with your work. Ill take my daughter back to the room first The woman nced at me and said to Er Dan before pulling their daughter back to their room.


    My sister-inw has always been shy. She doesnt even say hi most of the time. Li Mazi smiled.


    They were talking about something back and forth, but my focus was now on the otherworldly item.


    I put the bag on the table but didnt hurry to open it. I found the bowl we had used to keep the ck dog blood and smeared my hands in the blood before slowly unwrapping the bag.


    Little Brother Zhang, why do you have to do that? Ive never seen you put ck dog blood on your hands before. Is this a new trick? Li Mazi could still crack a joke now. I shot him a fierce nce.


    The reason for smearing ck dog blood on my hands was to prevent any idents from happening. This otherworldly item had killed Li Mazis second uncle, so it probably could do the same to me. I needed to be cautious. After I coated my hands with the ck dog blood, they felt sticky and exuded a strange smell. However, I had to endure it.


    After Ipletely unwrapped the bag, I saw that the chamber pot was no simple item. If I wasnt wrong, this pot should be made of real bronze.


    Shang Yangs [1] era was the peak period of bronze wares. If an item was from that era, it could be worth around several million renminbi. And, if it was made by a famous cksmith, it could be worth tens of millions. After thinking about that, my mouth began to water.


    Humans hadalways been greedy, and if this case ended well, I could be a rich shop owner. I would no longer need to worry about the Longquan Vi or the Zhang family.


    It was no wonder Li Mazi had tried to trick me.


    I shot Li Mazi a nce, and he gave me a forced smile that looked even uglier than his crying face.


    Grandmaster, what should we do next? How are you going to deal with this chamber pot? What are the required materials? Ill get them for you right away! Er Dan was restless. He mistook me for a Daoist priest that could bring out a magic altar to perform tricks whenever needed.


    I told him he didnt need to do anything and that he should prepare dinner first.


    After Er Dan left, Li Mazi and I started to assess the bronze artifact. To be honest, this copper pot did look like a chamber pot, so I understood why Li Mazis second uncle had used it for his nocturnal use.


    I carefully stroked the surface of the bronze artifact and saw a lot of words carved on it. However, each word was as big as a mosquito. There were so many of them that I couldnt read them without a magnifying ss.


    Can you read them? How about we get an expert to take a look? said Li Mazi as he handed me a magnifying ss. I lifted my head and gave him a faint smile. Li Mazis eyes were sharp. I hadnt said anything, but he knew what I needed.


    I held the magnifying ss, and the joy I felt vanished in an instant. The words carved on this pot werent that ancient. This was likely an item from the Qing dynasty!


    Whats wrong? Is there anything wrong with this pot? Li Mazi couldnt stay calm after seeing my expression.


    If it was from the Qing dynasty, it would be a normal antique, which was much less valuable than the artifacts from Shang Yangs era. Also, the price wouldnt be that high. At most, it would be a few hundred thousand renminbi. I felt a little downcast. However, I still tried my best to read the words carved on the pot. Since this copper pot had patina and rusted spots, I couldnt read that many characters.


    Anyway, this pot was a grave good that was buried with a general of the Manchurian Eight Banners. His name was Niohuru, and perhaps because it was peaceful during his life in the Qing dynasty, he hadnt been promoted for dozens of years. In the end, he returned to his hometown without any merit and died with regret. Before he died, his life was rather miserable. He had to sell his armor and everything he owned to the pawnshop just to exchange them for a few steamed buns, which he couldnt even eat in the end. Before he died, he had to eat soil to fill his stomach. This copper pot was his only valuable grave good.


    After knowing the story from head to tail, there were still many things that I felt skeptical about. I still didnt know why this otherworldly item contained such powerful resentment. Li Mazis uncle had just used it as a chamber pot. It wasnt a crime that made him deserve death.


    I had expected to have a nice and delicious dinner, but there was just one meat dish and one vegetable dish, which was sponge gourd soup. The meat dish was their homemade dried meat. It tasted good, but the texture was too tough.


    It was just the three of us eating dinner together. Er Dan prepared two bowls of rice and took them to the bedroom for his wife and daughter.


    As I watched him do that, I felt curious. Why did they have to hide? It was just sharing a meal. Were they afraid that we would look at them? I had a feeling that the women werent ordinary, but I couldnt tell how or why.


    When dinner was over, Li Mazi and I prepared our stuff. Then, we departed. This time, we didnt bring Er Dan with us since he was just an ordinary farmer and wouldnt be of much help. We let him stay home with his family.


    After we left the house, Li Mazi asked, Next time, could we not go out at night time? Would it work if we do it in daylight?


    I shot him a fierce look. You want to unearth a grave in broad daylight? Do you want the folks to beat you to death?


    I brought Li Mazi to the dry well as I wanted to see if there was something inside. Right as we were about to reach the well, we heard footsteps behind us.


    Li Mazi and I turned vigntly. Nobody woulde to this ce at night time. If someone did, that person wouldnt just be a passerby.


    We found a ce to hide. Fortunately, it was the countryside, where the grass grew lushly, so it was convenient for us to hide.


    When that person came close, Li Mazi and I were almost scared to death!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shang_Yang

 Chapter 414: Chuyi Comes to the Rescue

    Chapter 414: Chuyi Comes to the Rescue


    The one standing before us was none other than Li Mazis second uncle. He looked alive, and his actions were the same as before.


    He had a pale face and looked like a soulless, walking corpse.


    He loomed over the dry well and cried for a few hours.


    This time, Li Mazi had prepared a pair of earplugs. He put them in his ears to protect himself from the piercing cries.


    We waited until Li Mazis second uncle had left before approaching the well. I craned my neck to see the bottom, my heart full of doubts.


    Hey, did you find anything? asked Li Mazi.


    I smiled at him and nodded. Then, I motioned at him to go and check the bottom of the well.


    Little Brother Zhang, is this a joke? How could I go down this well? If I go down there, will I be able to climb back up here? Are you scheming to harm a talented person for his wealth? Li Mazi carefully watched me and took a few steps back. He looked really funny.


    What does he have that I would want to scheme him for?


    To know the secret of this well, we had to go down there. I shot him another fierce look.


    Li Mazi thought about it then agreed nervously. I grabbed the pulley rope of the abandoned well, slowly lowering Li Mazi into the well. I almost lost my grip in the beginning because Li Mazi was too heavy. If my arms werent strong enough, Li Mazi would have fallen right to the bottom. After half a minute, he touched the bottom of the well.


    Li Mazi took out his wolf-eye shlight. A wolf-eye shlight was different from an ordinary shlight as it could gather the light much better. An ordinary shlight could reach the range of around ten meters, but the wolf-eye shlight could shine thirty to forty meters away. It was the best tool to use in this situation.


    While Li Mazi was down there, I couldnt ease my mind. However, if I also went to the bottom of the well, there would be no one to pull us back up. That was why I could only sit by the well and have a smoke as I waited for him.


    Little Brother Zhang, hurry! Pull me up! Hurry! I found something important! Theres a skeleton down here. Li Mazis voice soon came from the well. I didnt hesitate and pulled the pulley.


    Li Mazi came up with a grin, holding items with both hands. Since it was dark, I couldnt see the items clearly. It looked like he was holding a bone in his left hand and something in his right hand.


    How was the situation down there?


    This well isnt as simple as it looks; its here for a purpose. Theres a coffin down there. From the patterns carved on it, I guess its from the Qing dynasty.


    Then, Li Mazi handed me the bone and asked me to take a look.


    I received the bone and carefully assessed it. It seemed to be the bone of a woman. It was small and weathered. The deceased wasnt old when she died.


    However, I cared about the item in Li Mazis other hand more. Li Mazi looked as though he didnt want me to see it.


    I snatched it from his hand, and it turned out to be a copper pot simr to the one Li Mazis uncle had unearthed. However, this one was half the size of the other. I put it under the light and carefully observed it. I hoped to find something on the pot. However, this copper pot only had some patterns. There were no words on it.


    This aroused my doubt.Whats the rtionship between the owners of the two graves? Were they a married couple?


    If they were a married couple, they should be buried together. Why was one down at the bottom of the well while the other was in the graveyard?


    Moreover, to ancient people, they needed to be safe and untouched after they were buried. Why did someone bury this woman in this well? It wasnt much different from cursing her forever.


    Little Brother Zhang, what should we do now? Should we go to the graveyard to find my uncle? Do you think hes still alive? Li Mazi was worried. I didnt answer, which made him even more restless.


    Honestly, I didnt know how to answer him. Unless we could find the right rope in the mess, we would never disentangle the whole mess.


    Feeling helpless, I had to take Li Mazi to the graveyard. On the way there, the wind howled, which made us feel cold. We felt a little scared, so we started to chat to ease our frightened hearts.


    Our topic drifted to Er Dans wife. I was curious about her. Er Dan was just a rustic farmer, and he hadnt left his vige many times. How did he marry a beautiful woman like her?


    Li Mazi then told me about their familys story.


    Er Dans only advantage was his honesty. Except for that, he had nothing special going for him. In Huanghuai Vige, his family was poor and had to rely on aid from the government. He also raised some pigs to make ends meet.


    In general, Er Dans familys condition couldnt help him marry someone.


    One day, Er Dan went to his field and found a woman who had fainted. Since he was a good man, he saved her.


    Afterward, the woman was grateful for his favor, so she took the initiative to marry him.


    However, she had a condition. She wanted to bring her daughter to live with him. Er Dan didnt deny her request. To him, marrying a woman was already a grace from Heaven.


    That little girl wasnt Er Dans biological daughter. No wonder she looked so different from him.


    While thinking that Er Dans luck wasnt bad, we arrived at the graveyard. Li Mazis second uncle was kneeling on the ground, wolfing down the soil from the grave.


    However, when we arrived, he stopped eating dirt. He slowly turned to us and looked at us with his empty eyes. In this dark ce, he looked strangely terrifying.


    Li Mazi and I felt that something was wrong as he walked toward us.


    Li Mazi was scared. He jumped and hid behind me. What should we do now?


    I was also dumbstruck.Is this man alive or dead?


    I could deal with a man who was alive. But if he was dead, I didnt know what to do! This time, I didnt have my tools with me.


    While I was bewildered, Li Mazis second uncle jumped forward and grabbed my neck. I couldnt breathe as he lifted me from the ground.


    Li Mazi was so scared that he slumped on the ground, screaming for help.


    I wiggled hard to get rid of him, but I couldnt gather much strength. I thought I would die here.


    The moment I almost lost my senses, a white figure appeared in front of me, and I heard the sharp sound of a sword being drawn out of its sheath.


    That pair of hands that was strangling me released me. I fell to the ground and opened my mouth to gasp for my breath.


    I lifted my head. It was Chuyi who had just saved me.


    He wore his usual cold face, his back turned to me. Under the moonlight, he looked like a lone traveler.


    You always get into trouble. Youre lucky that I didnt return to Hong Kong immediately. Otherwise, you would have died here, said Chuyi. Then, he turned around and left.


    I wanted to thank him, but his figure had already disappeared into the darkness.


    I didnt call him and decided to return this favor at ater time.


    When I turned to check on the old man, my eyes opened wide in shock. Chuyi had chopped off Li Mazis uncles arms in one sh. I didnt know if it was due to the sword attack or something else, but at this moment, Li Mazis uncle was lying on the ground like a corpse, not moving in the slightest.


    Although he had died once, I was cautious and first checked his breathing.


    His body waspletely cold, and he wasnt breathing. Moreover, there was lividity at his neck, and only dead bodies could have lividity.


    While puzzled, I helped the petrified Li Mazi get up. He was still frightened, and he couldnt even stammer a sentence.


    Lets go. We must bring your uncle home first Then, I picked up the copper pot and walked away with Li Mazi.

 Chapter 415: The Sins of the Fathers Shall Fall Upon the Sons

    Chapter 415: The Sins of the Fathers Shall Fall Upon the Sons


    When we returned to the house, Er Dan hadnt slept yet. After seeing me, he hurriedly told me that his father was nowhere to be seen. When he saw the body on Li Mazis back, Er Dans face turned pale in fright. Whats going on?


    Li Mazi briefed Er Dan of the situation while I moved the body back to its original room. Normally, a dead man couldnt just wake up and walk around, let alone cry and eat soil. Everything that had happened was unbelievable!


    When I opened the room, I caught a faint smell of perfume. I had smelled this perfume before from Er Dans wife. Since it was a peculiar smell, it was still new in my memory.


    When I came near to the bed, a white cat sprang past me, heading towards the door. I was surprised and watched the white cat as it disappeared, frowning.


    Before leaving, I had reminded Er Dan to close the door carefully. I had instructed him to not let any dog or cat enter the room. It seemed he did not follow my instructions. A cat had intruded. It exined Li Mazis second uncles behavior.


    There was a high chance that the dead would rise again if it was in contact with a dog or a cat. Moreover, the uncles body had been affected by the otherworldly item, and the item would instinctively make him feel like he was still alive. That was why he went to the graveyard and ate soil.


    However, I couldnt understand why he had tried to strangle me when we found him. I didnt do anything to harm him!


    I suddenly remembered the copper pot. I searched the room but couldnt find it. The pot was nowhere to be seen.


    I rushed outside and asked Er Dan, Wheres the copper pot?


    In the bedroom.


    He took me to the bedroom, but he couldnt find it, either. At this moment, he was also puzzled.


    Has a thief visited your house? Li Mazi found it unbelievable. With Er Dans familys condition, even if they left the door open, no one would steal things from his house.


    I felt that all the spears were now pointed at Er Dans wife. There were only a few people in this house. Since the item was gone, she was the most likely suspect.


    I told Er Dan that I wanted to talk to his wife, but Er Dan hesitated at first. After a long moment, he said, We should talk about it tomorrow.


    Li Mazi chimed in, Itste at night, and youre requesting to talk to someones wife. This is not appropriate, and people in the countryside care about such matters.


    That was why Er Dan didn''t look pleased. The matter ended with nothing done.


    The next morning, I told Li Mazi I had to go. Li Mazi became flustered and hugged my leg. Little Brother Zhang, you cant leave now! This matter isnt over yet! After everythings done, you can take the two pots altogether!


    It wasnt about money. The problem was that if I stayed, I would bring trouble to myself, and I could even die.


    But in the end, I had to give up on my thoughts about leaving. Li Mazi used his tricks on me. He cried, jumped, kicked, and even tried to hang himself.


    At breakfast, Er Dans wife didnte out of the room. It was the same asst time. When Er Dan brought the meal to the room, I followed him.


    A familiar aroma permeated the room. It was the same scent I had caught in the room where we had kept Li Mazis uncles corpse.


    Grandmaster, why did you follow me here? Er Dan wasnt pleased. From his tone, I knew that he was angry.


    Im here to talk to your wife. Do you mind if I do so? I asked.


    At this moment, Li Mazi entered the room and asked Er Dan to leave. Er Dan didnt want to, but he still listened to Li Mazi in the end. He left his wife, little daughter, and me in the room.


    Er Dans wife wore a cautious face and pulled the girl behind her. She gazed at me.


    Im not going to beat around the bush. Why did you have to harm them? They are a family of honest farmers and have been for many generations. Is it really okay for you to do this to them? I went straight into the matter.


    Er Dans wife kept silent for a long time. In the end, she gave me a sad smile.


    It seems you know about it. All right, I did all of this. I wanted to destroy their family to take revenge for my great grandfather! Tears fell from her eyes. I looked at her vulnerable appearance and didnt know what to do.


    Your great grandfather? You mean the general called Niohuru? I remembered the words on the copper pot.


    The woman nodded. He was my great grandfather. My great grandfather died tragically because of the Li family! When I found out that they were their descendants, I had to make them pay the price!


    At this moment, I seemed to understand many things.


    That bronze pot didnt appear in the field by chance. This woman had deliberately buried it at the ce Li Mazis uncle had often worked, which led to the unfortunate events that ensued.


    What did you gain by doing so? Do you know that you killed an innocent man? I thundered. I hated this sort of person the most.


    They deserved to die! Only death can repay their debts! The womans eyes sparked with anger. She had only thought about taking revenge. She didnt consider that she had killed someone.


    Bang!


    The door sprang open. Li Mazi and Er Dan stormed in.


    Er Dan had tears in his eyes. His hands shakily pointed at the woman but couldnt utter a word.


    Never would he have thought that his loving wife was a murderer. He shakily walked toward her.


    If you hated us that much, why didnt you kill me? You could have just killed me. Why did you harm my father? Why Er Dan raised his hand as if he was about to hit the woman. However, he dropped his hand right afterward. He couldnt do it. After all, they were married and they seemed to love each other.


    Li Mazi and I thought that it wasnt proper for us to stay here. We sneaked out as it was their familys matter. We couldnt and shouldnt join the quarrel. That was why I wanted to leave early.


    After thinking it through the whole night, I had more or less guessed the situation.


    That woman was indeed touched by Er Dans kindness, and she wished to continue living with him.


    However, she couldnt vite the family vow. That was why she decided to kill Er Dans father.


    I didnt want to get involved in the matter because of this reason. I initially thought that if the death of one person could be exchanged for the couples future happiness, it could be worth it. However, after thinking about it carefully, the lie would be exposed one day or another. A short pain was better than a long agony. It was better to let them solve their familys issues immediately!


    I asked Li Mazi to pack up. I told him that we should leave, but he didnt understand my meaning and stopped me. We can''t go now. We havent even taken the copper pots yet.


    Because we had decided to stay, we witnessed a tragedy afterward. It was really tragic to Li Mazi. Er Danmitted suicide with his wife. The two hugged each other and killed themselves. They had died for this so-called revenge.


    Li Mazi had to stay to hold a funeral for them, so I went home alone.


    Every detail of this story was dramatic, which made me understand life much better.


    When I came home, I posted an advertisement for a pair of copper pots in the Circle. I soon got a buyer.


    In the end, I sold the pair of bronze artifacts for the price of one million. Before I sold the items, I told the buyer the story behind them.


    During the Guangxu period of the Qing dynasty (1875-1908), there was a man called Niohuru. He had won the martial championship at the pce. Although he had aimed high, he didnt bribe the judge with gifts. This resulted in the judge giving him a low score in front of the Emperor. The judge was surnamed Li.


    In the end, Niohuru became a low general in the Eight Banners Army. He had to guard a small city at the border.


    However, that courtier Li hadid his eyes on Niohurus wife. He had schemed a lot to get the woman. However, Niohurus wife would have rather killed herself than to follow him. In the end, she was raped and killed, and her body was thrown into the well.


    Feeling heartbroken, Niohuru buried his wife right at that spot. He wrote more than one hundred letters with his blood to the Emperor, asking for justice. However, courtier Li intercepted all the letters. He even deprived Niohuru of his title and confiscated his properties, making him an ordinary fellow.


    Niohuru died of hunger and coldness. Before he died, he asked his daughter to vow that she would eradicate the Li familys descendants in retaliation


    The fathers nted the trees, the sons picked the fruits, and the sins of fathers were eventually ced upon the sons.


    If courtier Li had seen Niohurus will to repay the countrys favor If Niohuru could have imagined the consequences before he died Would Er Dan and his wife have lived happily ever after?


    However, I would never be able to see that future.

 Chapter 416: Jiang Yan Has Exhausted His Talent

    Chapter 416: Jiang Yan Has Exhausted His Talent


    After that case ended, I didnt have any business for a long time. Every day, I opened my shop and spent my days leisurely, drinking liquor and reading books to pass the time.


    One day, Yin Xinyue approached me. Brother Zhang, help me a bit here.


    Whats going on? I asked.


    I have a friend whos a screenwriter, and hes beenining about his writers block to me for two days in a row. He told me he has racked his brain for quite a while, but was unable to write a script. Do you have any tricks to help him? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I frowned and ced the book down.


    I then said to Yin Xinyue in a serious voice, We shouldnt use otherworldly items casually. Moreover, theres no pie that randomly falls from the sky. When you receive something, you have to pay an equal price! Even if he cant write a script, its not that serious. He should go out to travel and rx to adjust his mood. Perhaps he will find inspiration.


    Yin Xinyue sighed. Ive told him that, but it was of no use! You dont understand how harsh it is in this industry. Every year, there are thousands of writers who want to join the circle of screenwriters, and the industry is already full of second-rate and third-rate screenwriters. If you cant write, someones ready to take your job. If you dont cooperate with the director immediately, you might not ever have a chanceter.


    She continued, He said that he doesnt care if he has to meet a ghost or reduce his life span. The only thing that matters to him is getting the inspiration to write. So, could you help him this time? I know that only you can help him. Yin Xinyue begged me.


    To be honest, I felt that the domestic movie industry was already flooded. There were so many crappy scripts, and everyone thought they could be a screenwriter. However, not every bowl of rice was delicious.


    I told Yin Xinyue to tell her friend that I would find an otherworldly item for him, but I wasnt sure that it would work.


    Thats great! Ive got his business card here. You can start by getting to know him first.


    Then, Yin Xinyue opened her wallet and handed me a business card. The card read the name of a famous screenwriter, Meng Dongye.


    I jogged my memory and asked, Is he the screenwriter that wrote Empresses in the Pce, the famous Qing Pce drama of this year?


    Yeah, thats him! Yin Xinyue smiled.


    Meng Dongye wasnt an ordinary screenwriter. He was a great influencer on Weibo who often joined talk shows. It turned out I had a chance to do business with a celebrity. I was a little excited.


    Yin Xinyue told me that he had to submit his newest script in the second half of this year, so she asked me to seize the time.


    That night, I released the news to the Circle and asked about an otherworldly item that could inspire people. The safer the item, the better. The price wasnt an issue.


    In less than a week, someone called me. It was Brother Wei, someone who had worked with me a few times. He was also an otherworldly merchant, but he didnt collect the items himself. He obtained the items through his connections and often helped other colleagues in this business. He charged them the intermediary fee.


    I had found buyers for some otherworldly items through his channels.


    Hey brother, I just got an item a few days ago, and Im sure it matches your requirement pretty well. We should book an appointment to meet up. However, well do cash. I dont want to use the bank. These days, Im afraid Im being watched.


    How much? Ill need some time to prepare the cash.


    He didnt beat around the bush. Because of our friendship, the price wont be high. Three hundred thousand renminbi. Not much, right?


    I then set up an appointment with him and invited Yin Xinyue and Meng Dongye. The meeting was at a shabby and abandoned building still under construction. Brother Wei lived there like a homeless person and had hired a guy to deliver food to him daily.


    Meng Dongye was a bearded man who wore round-framed sses. When he saw the abandoned building, he asked me worriedly, Mr. Zhang, your friend doesnt live in a decent ce. I have a feeling that hes not a reliable person.


    You can trust the people I refer to you. Im sure he is wanted right now. Hes hiding here to avoid the limelight. I forced a smile.


    As soon as he saw me, Brother Wei started to rant about how miserable he was. Last time, I bought an antique and sold it for double the price. However, I didnt know that it was a second-rate national treasure. I dont know who ratted me to the police, but theyre watching me now. They keep sending guys to watch my door. I had to move here.


    Then, he turned to greet Yin Xinyue. Yo, is this my sister-inw? What a beautiful woman you are! You look like a movie star!


    And then, he patted Meng Dongyes shoulder hard. The great screenwriter, Mr. Meng! Ive been longing to meet you for a long time. Ive watched all the anti-Japanese war movies you wrote! They are freaking awesome! What is the current piece of art youre working on?


    Life in the Qing Dynastys Pce. Meng Dongye was a sort of literati, and he couldnt adapt to Brother Weis style. After all, Brother Wei was like a barbarianpared to him.


    Brother Wei also noticed it. He said sheepishly, Im just a boorish man, and I dont really understand etiquette. Please, dont feel offended. However, I value my reputation the most in this business, so you dont have to worry!


    Good, I trust you! Meng Dongye smiled.


    Please, have a seat and lets talk about business! Brother Wei moved over several stic stools. We sat face to face, with the money box Meng Dongye had brought ced on the makeshift table. Brother Wei took out a long mahogany box and showed it to us.


    He opened the box, which revealed a brush. The brush handle was made of beautiful bamboo and had a bright, shiny surface. Of course, it wasnt the result of a polishing machine. It was caused by the friction between the hand and the brush for a long time. There were some strange patterns, but they werent clear enough to see. There was also a small hole on the top, but the wolf hairs at the nib were neat and strangely beautiful.


    This brush can give me inspiration? Meng Dongye sounded skeptical.


    Of course. Once you know the story behind the brush, youll believe it. Brother Wei put a cigarette between his lips.


    I told him not to fool around and tell us the story.


    Brother Zhang, I know youve been North and South these years and that youve collected a lot of interesting and valuable items, but Im sure you have never seen this sort of item before.


    What sort of item is it? I asked.


    One thates with its own idiom!


    I had almost slipped off the stool. I had expected something better. Yin Xinyue also sniggered.


    Okay, could you please tell me the old story behind this brush? I tried not tough.


    Brother Wei stayed silent for a while then said, Jiang Yan has exhausted his talent!


    Meng Dongye jolted up and said excitedly, You mean this brush is the magic brush in the story, Jiang Yan Has Exhausted His Talent?


    Yeah, thats right. The great screenwriter Meng got it right! Brother Wei pped his hands. This is the magic brush of talented writing. It carries a lot of history with it. Isnt it awesome?


    I also knew the story behind the idiom.


    The folktale said that during the period of the Southern dynasty, there was a famous writer called Jiang Yan. After making a political mistake, he was demoted and sent to Pucheng to be a lowly officer. He was so sad that he didnt even want to eat meals or drink water.


    One day, he took a walk in the countryside and fell asleep on a hill as he was exhausted. In his dream, he saw an old immortal that came to him on a cloud. The deity gave him a five-colored brush. Jiang Yan, you saved my life in your previous life. ept this brush as my way of returning the favor.


    From that day onward, Jiang Yans ideas surged like a great river. He wrote a lot of splendid works that went down in history.


    Jiang Yan relied on his rich knowledge and talent for writing to gradually advance to the top. When he turned middle-aged, he dreamed of that old immortal again. The immortal told him that he had been promoted quickly thanks to the five-colored brush and that it was time to return it.


    Jiang Yan respectfully took the brush out of his pocket and returned it to the old immortal. From that day on, he was no longer able to write anything significant.


    The idiom Jiang Yan has exhausted his talent originated from this folktale.


    However, I was skeptical. In the folktale, it was a five-colored magic brush. How could it turn into a bamboo brush?


    This brush looked ordinary. Was this the difference between reality and imagination?

 Chapter 417: The Murderous Brush

    Chapter 417: The Murderous Brush


    Meng Dongye was skeptical. Brother Wei, its not that I dont trust you, but ording to that folktale, Jiang Yan got a five-colored divine brush in his dream. Such a brush cant exist in reality!


    Brother Wei just smiled. You cant just look at the surface of things. Sometimes, the truth isnt as awesome as in the legends. This brush is an otherworldly item that Jiang Yan obtained from somewhere. After he got it, his literature career started to thrive again. However, he couldnt tell people that. He made up a story and told people that he got the magic brush in a dream. Later on, he found the side effects of the brush to be too dangerous. He got rid of it, then told people that the old immortal had decided to take it back. Screenwriter Meng, Im not bragging. Although you guys have read a lot of books, there are many things you dont know because they arent written down. You shouldnt blindly trust books, Brother Wei said.


    I agreed with Brother Wei about this point. Otherworldly items always contained a lot of knowledge and historical stories. These things couldnt be found in books. I had encountered many otherworldly items over the years and obtained a lot of knowledge.


    Meng Dongye touched the brush. You mean this brush has some side effects? Could you please borate?


    Brother Weiughed. Dont worry. Its just a brush, so it cant cause you a lot of harm. At most, it will take a few years of your life span. Jiang Yan had used it until he reached his middle-aged years. So, I dont think its that serious.


    It will take a few years of my life span? Meng Dongye frowned. It looked like he was struggling to decide. It wasnt easy for ordinary people to take this step, and once they took it, there was no turning back. However, humans were greedy.


    In the end, he said, As long as I can write an excellent script, Im willing to pay this price. The life of a writer doesnt depend on its length, as a famous work can immortalize their name.


    What a man! Brother Wei pped. One, I admire your frankness. Two, I like your screenwriting works. Mr. Meng, I will give you this brush for free. Please ept it as a gift from me.


    No, no, I cant take it for free. Its not easy for you to work in this business. Meng Dongye immediately handed the money box to Brother Wei.


    Brother Wei was just being polite, so he immediately epted the money. I like making friends. Could you sign here for me?


    Sure!


    Meng Dongye paid the money and Brother Wei handed over the item. The business deal was done. The moment Brother Wei reached out his hand to receive the money box, I noticed a cut on his arm. It didnt look like it was a recent cut, but it didnt look old, either. He saw that I was looking and hastily covered the wound with his sleeve.


    I felt that this wasnt a simple deal. Brother Wei looked as if he wanted to sell this brush as fast as possible.


    Meng Dongye asked him how to use the brush.


    You see the small hole at the top of the brush? Feed it your blood for three days. Theres no need to feed it much. Just do it once every six hours. You have to drop your blood in it until the entire nib turns red. Thats when the brush will be awakened. Then, you can use it to write anything. Im sure inspiration will flow like a river!


    I have to write using this brush? Meng Dongye asked.


    Brother Weiughed again. Youre funny. You can use whatever you like to write. The otherworldly item will work when its ced near you.


    All right, I got it. Meng Dongye smiled. He was satisfied.


    We said goodbye to Brother Wei and left the abandoned building. I asked Meng Dongye to contact me if he encountered anything strange while using the brush.


    He agreed and left.


    I turned and walked to a food street in the neighborhood.


    What are you doing? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I want to know something.


    A female shopkeeper was sitting behind the counter, eating melon seeds while watching TV. I went to greet her, but she ignored me.


    I had to buy a packet of cigarettes to make the woman change her attitude.


    Aunty, I want to ask you something. How long has the building behind you been abandoned?


    Two or three years, answered the shopkeeper.


    Do you know why they stopped building it?


    The shopkeeper thought and said, There was a major ident, and around ten workers died. The people in this area dont dare to buy an apartment there, and all the apartments that were sold before the incident were returned. The real estatepany couldnt take back its investment while owing a huge sum of money to the bank. I heard that thepanys boss fled to Taiwan and hid there. Thats why the building was left unfinished


    She then assessed me. Are you going to buy that plot ofnd?


    I gave her a vague answer. I just want to ask for some information for my friend.


    The shopkeeper advised sincerely, You should tell your friend not to throw money into the river. Do you know what this ce used to be? It was an execution ground! The prisoners were sent here to be beheaded. That real estate agent bought it because it was cheap and then that horrible ident happened. This ces geomancy is bad. I never stay here at night. They say people often see headless shadows walking back and forth.


    I cursed under my breath! Brother Wei had fooled us!


    I hurried to return to the building. On the way back, Yin Xinyue asked me, Brother Zhang, this is an ominous ce. Why did that man want to take shelter here?


    He wants to use poison to deal with poison. Im sure that the brush isnt anything good. To subdue it, he decided to stay in this dangerous ce! I exined.


    Using poison to treat poison? Is that a thing? Yin Xinyue was skeptical.


    I nodded. The rtionship between souls wasnt always nice. Generally speaking, ancient ghosts and modern ghosts wouldnt get along, and I sometimes used this method to deal with otherworldly items.


    When I rushed back there, I saw Brother Wei packing up his stuff. While cleaning, he was happily humming a song.


    When he saw us, his face grew awkward. My wife just called me. She found a basement for me to stay in. Its not good to stay in this abandoned building. Im preparing to move there.


    How can there be such a coincidence? I sneered. You lied to me and said that the cops were watching you! However, the truth is that you stayed here to subdue that brush!


    Little Brother Zhang, youre being unfair here! With my long-time credit in this business, how could I sell something problematic to my customers? Brother Wei protested.


    You like to hide, dont you? Do you know that I know a trick that can make you hide for the rest of your life? I growled.


    Brother Wei paled in fright and begged. Please, dont! I know what youre capable of. Ill tell you the truth.


    Spit it out. Whats the story behind that brush?


    Brother Wei scratched his head and gave me an embarrassed look. That brush has killed people.


    I wasnt surprised. Continue.


    That brush has had four former owners. The previous two were webnovel writers, and thetter two were authors for a publisher.


    When he said that, I suddenly remembered the news about a novel author who had killed himself under pressure.


    This brush could inspire people endlessly, as if they were blessed by the heavens. However, the side effects were really tremendous. It would torture the owner and exhaust them mentally and physically. What was even more frightening was that after the brush tortured an owner to death, his soul would be tied into the brush.


    Ever since Brother Wei got the brush in his house, he couldnt live in peace. Four ghosts kept biting and scratching him, asking him to return the brush to them. He could neither sleep nor eat. He had almost lost his mind.


    In the end, he came to this abandoned construction as hisst resort. This ce also had paranormal activities. However,pared to the brush, the ghosts here were like a friendly and loving family.


    Brother Wei lifted his shirt to show us his body. His entire upper body was filled with scratches. There was no area left intact.


    I frowned. Why didnt youe to see me?


    Come to you? Oh please, were all otherworldly merchants. Dont tell me that you dont know the rule.


    Which rule? I was dumbstruck.


    If you join in, the item will belong to you, and you will sell it again afterward. I''m not crazy. I paid two hundred thousand for this brush, and I wont do charity, said Brother Wei.


    Do you want your life or money?


    Brother Weis following answer enraged me.


    I want both!

 Chapter 418: The Great Screenwriter Meng Dongye

    Chapter 418: The Great Screenwriter Meng Dongye


    Brother Wei put the hem of his shirt down. But you can join the case now.After all, I sold theitemalready, andI know youre capable of retrieving it.You can sell it for a few hundred renminbiter. Its a win-win situation.


    I cussed, Win-win mybutt!You cheated us!


    Dont speak such words. Were in the same business. Are you confident thatall the otherworldly items youve sold are safe? Dont fool yourself and lie to others. This business is like selling drugs. We know theyre not good, butpeople still askfor them, and we deliver.Were just working to make ends meet. Dontthink toomuchabout it.


    Brother Weis code ofethicsmade me speechless.


    He collected his stuff and put themina big suitcase.He even put on a pair of sunssesand prepared to leavewith an excited face. Beforeleaving, he toldme, Boss Zhang, I owe you this time. When we have a chance, we should work together!


    After he left, I sat down helplesslyand clutchedmy head.


    Are you okay? asked Yin Xinyue.


    Im doubting the ethics of my profession.


    Sheforted me. You shouldnt think about it that way.I dont think you need to feelguilty. After all, you cant ensure everybodys happiness. And,some people arewilling to exchange their longevity andluckfor something beautiful, even if itsjust for a moment. Its their choice. It has nothing to do with you


    Yin Xinyues wordsmade me feel better. Xinyue, you should keepyourdistancefromthat screenwriter. When hehasa problem, I will help him for free.


    This wasanotherburdenonmy mind.


    WhenI got home, I started my preparations. I checked books and journalsand drewsome talismans.Yet, although it had been a few days already,Ihadnt heard anythingfrom Meng Dongye. I even followed his Weibo page, andtherewerenew updates every day. It waseither about some insights he had or updates about his goodmood and his writing, whichwas goingsmoothly.


    The magic brush seemed to work well.


    Half a monthter.


    Iwas upied with other activities,so I had almost forgotten about this case. Oneday, while I was eating with Yin Xinyue, she told me that Meng Dongye had submitted his new script to the director, which the director highly appreciated. The overall assessment of the script was extremely high;it could even reach the standard of Hollywood movie scripts!


    However, there were so many typos and sentence structure problems. Itwasnt easyto read. They needed to hireaneditor to smoothen it. However, Meng Dongye graduated with a degree in Chinesenguage and literature. His writing shouldnt have such low-level mistakes. The director guessed that he had made such mistakes because of his fast speed.


    I asked Yin Xinyue,How many words are there in a script?


    For a forty-episode script like his, it would be more than800,000words.


    Gosh!


    I had a high school ssmate who worked as a webnovuthor. His target per day was10,000words, and hismission for one thousand words was just a few cents. Every day, heworked until he exhausted himself to earn around two hundredrenminbi.


    Itlooked like he had a lot of free timeas there was no boss to watch over him or urge him to work, but it was as hard as any other job.


    Meng Dongye had written800,000wordsinhalf a month. What kind of concept was that? He musthave writtenat least more than50,000words a day to achieve that. Moreover,writing wasnteasy.He wouldneedtime to let his brain rest to think about the details and outlines. Let alone writing everything down, even if he had the draft and just needed to write from it, he would have to sit in front of hisputer for more than ten hours a day.


    Seeing how much he was working, I was worried about Meng Dongyes body condition. I suggested that we visit him in the afternoon. Yin Xinyue agreed with me.


    In the afternoon, Yin Xinyue and I drove to Meng Dongyes home.He lived inan apartment building in a luxurious neighborhood. Hewasdivorced, andhistwo kidslivedwith their mother. His job was to stay home and write scripts, and hesometimeswentout to discuss the storyline with the directors.


    We went to the building and hit the inte. It took a long time before someone picked up the call.


    We announced ourselves, andMeng Dongyereplied,soundingexhausted,Im sorry but please leave. Im writing. I dont have time to wee you.


    Didnthe finish his script? Whatcould he be working on? asked Yin Xinyue.


    Im afraid hes bewitched. I frowned.


    Should wegoin or not?


    Of course, we have to see him!


    We waited in the lobby until an auntyreturnedhome from the grocery store and opened the door. We quickly followed her into the building.


    Meng Dongye livedon thefifth floor. Before my hand could reach his door, Meng Dongye screamed from the inside,Get lost! Go away! Dont disturb me!


    He''s getting more and more cocky! I knocked on the door. However, Meng Dongye ignored me.


    He doesnt want to open the door. We shouldebacter, suggestedYin Xinyue.


    No! Hes not in good condition. Ifthists longer,thingswill turn worse. We need to see him today. I contemtedthen said,If we cant do it the soft way, well get someone to pick his lock!


    If we want to pickalock, wellneed tocontactthe police first. Yin Xinyue looked worried.


    Theres no need. Ill just call Li Mazi!


    I immediately called him. Hey Li Mazi,e with your lock-picking tools. Ivegot a top prioritymission for you!


    Li Mazicame shortly after.


    Li Mazi, I guess your lock-picking skillshaveimproved. Im giving you a chance to show your talent!


    You want me to open this lock? Li Mazi rolled his eyes.


    Yeah.


    Im not bragging, but I just need two toothpicks to unlock this ordinary anti-theft door. Li Maziughed.


    Then, he took out his toolsand startedto work on the lock.He didnt forget to tter himself. Now,count down from twenty. If it takes more than twenty seconds, then my skills arent good enough.


    When I finished the countdown, he screamed Open! and used his hand to pull the door. However, the door didnt move.


    Your trick failed?You really lost face this time! Iughed.


    No,there is something wrong here! Li Mazi stooped and studied the lock. This door is locked from the inside. Someones in the apartment!


    Yeah,thatscorrect.


    Why didnt you tell me earlier? You just need to knock on the door! Did you haveso muchfreetimethat you wanted to check my skills? Were you that bored?


    You can try knocking onthedoor.


    Li Mazi hit the door several times. Thest few knocks were louder than the first.Meng Dongye suddenly thundered,Go! Go away! Dont disturb me!


    Who is that? Hes so angry!Did he swallow a lot of pepper? asked Li Mazi.


    I told himaboutthe situation. You must figure outaway to open this door today. Otherwise, Meng Dongye will possibly die in his apartment.


    As soon as Li Mazi knew thatthe maninside was a client, he became high-spirited. Why didnt you tell me earlier?


    Im somewhat responsible forwhat happened to him, so Im doing this for free.


    For free?! Li Mazi fumed.


    Well, Im notforcingyou. If you open the lock for me, Ill pay you a few hundred renminbi. Isthatokay? I said.


    Am Ijust ajerkthat only works for money in your eyes? Dont talk nonsense. Im going to open this door for you! screamed Li Mazi.


    Then, he took out a hand drind askedus to watch over the scene for him.


    Li Mazi used his hand drill to slowly bore the door. It was a boring process, so while drilling, he asked me, LittleBrother Zhang, how muchisthat magic brushworth?


    You cant hide your nature after just three sentences. I had a wry smile.


    Itwas just a casual question. Li Mazi pouted.


    After drilling through the lock, Li Mazi inserted two tiny hooks,gently turningthemand opening the door.


    At least,Li Mazi had a specialty we could count on.


    As soon as we entered the living room, Ismelled a terrible stench.Empty wine bottles, leftovers in takeaway boxes, and cigarette ashes were scattered around the floor. Dirty clothes were on the sofa, and the curtains hung loose. I wondered how long this room had beenconcealedfrom the sunlight. The entire house wasaboutto grow mold.


    Oh gosh! Doall famous authors live like this?Do they hatethe sunlight? Li Mazi pinched his nose.


    It depends, I guess, I answered casually. Anyway, I didnt know much about their lifestyle.


    We heardMeng Dongyeyellfrom his bedroom. Go away! Get lost! All of you! Youthugs!


    The three of us exchanged looks.Whatwas going on? Why did he scold us? Wehadntdone anything!


    Well, wedidpickhis lock.


    Eventually, I decided to go to his bedroom to see. He was just a screenwriter that didnt even have the strength to truss a chicken. What could he do to us?


    As soon as we entered the room, we felt a gloomyatmosphere.


    When I sawthe interior, I was dumbstruck. There wasntjustone person intheroom! There were five of them!

 Chapter 419: Ghost Writers

    Chapter 419: Ghost Writers


    Meng Dongye was sitting beside a big bed with a MacBook in front of him, while the magic brush was hung by a red thread on the opposite wall.


    He was typing as three men stood next to him with emotionless faces. They looked young and were all gazing at the brush.


    Another man was looming over Meng Dongyes shoulder. His hands were ced on top of Meng Dongyes. Their four hands quickly moved along the keyboard, making loud sounds.


    The three other men often reached their hands to touch the brush. Meng Dongye couldnt see this horde of ghosts, but every time the magic brush swayed, he would cuss loudly. Go away! Dont even think about taking it! Its mine!


    I finally understood how the magic brush worked. The brush didnt provide or promote inspiration. The ghosts living in the brush helped the current owner write.


    I walked over and saw Meng Dongye writing a new script. Although he was fast, there were a lot of spelling mistakes, which made the script unreadable.


    His current appearance looked terrible. He used to be an elegant, stylish bearded man. But now, he was so skinny that his eyeballs had sunk deep into his sockets, and dark circles surrounded his eyes. I wonder how many nights he had gone without sleep. He even started to have bald spots on his head and had grown gray hairs. I remembered thest time I saw him; he had thick and sleek ck hair.


    He waspletely absorbed in writing, and even though I waved my hand in front of his eyes, he didnt see it.


    I read a few sentences of the sacred text of Daoism, and the four ghosts disappeared into the wall. During day time, ghosts were rtively weak.


    After the ghosts were gone, Meng Dongyes typing speed was reduced.


    I called him. Mr. Meng?


    Eh? He lifted his head and looked at me with an astonished expression. His face was bewildered. How did you guys get in here?


    You just talked with us through the inte. Dont you remember?


    Oh right, my mind must have been muddled. He sorted his files, then got up and stretched his waist. Ive been sitting for so long that my back and waist are all sore.


    His desk was filled with empty bottles and ashes from cigarettes. Underneath the desks were a few bottles that contained yellow piss. He didnt even want to spend a few minutes in the toilet.


    Meng Dongye ushered us to the living room. He wanted to prepare a teapot for us, but as he was pinching tea leaves from the box, his hand started to shake hard. He scattered the tea and knocked down a ss. He looked dumb and senile, just like an old man who was about to leave this world. Yin Xinyue went over to support him and walked with him to the sofa. Mr. Meng, theres no need to hurry. Ill help you clean it.


    Im sorry I couldnt wee you properly. He stiffly sat down. Mr. Zhang, the brush you introduced to me is really good. I feel like Im at the peak of my creative period. I think I canpose a masterpiece!


    What peak of your creative period! If we came a few dayster, perhaps we would have picked up your dead body.


    My stomach churned. A good man had been tortured into this state, and I was responsible for it.


    Screenwriter Meng, youve submitted the script, just rest now. Im worried about your body condition, I said.


    No, I feel I can write more. Im writing a great piece for a fantasy script. I have great expectations for it. Ive sent a few chapters to a famous director, and he ns to pay two hundred thousand renminbi for each episode! You dont know how magical this brush is. I used to only write spy and war scripts. Besides that, the only thing I wrote was the fight in the Qing Dynastys Pce. Now, I can even write a great fantasy script. When I ce my hands on the keyboard, I feel like they move on their own. Moreover, whatever I imagine in my head gets projected in front of me. Its so real. Its magical! Meng Dongye was so excited.


    It wasnt him who wrote all of this. The ghosts were the ones writing his scripts.


    Do you know what you look like now? I gave him a wry smile.


    Meng Dongye rubbed his face. Ive been staying up these past nights. I may look a little haggard, but that doesnt matter. After Im done writing this script, I will rest for a while.


    I asked Li Mazi to fetch a mirror for him.


    Meng Dongye couldnt believe his eyes. He had to rub his eyes before checking his image in the mirror again. Is this how I currently look?


    If Im honest with you, you have one foot in the coffin already. If you dont stop now, it will be toote! Li Mazi scolded.


    What should I do now? Mr. Zhang, you must save me! Meng Dongye was scared of his reflection in the mirror.


    Dont worry. Im here to help you. For security reasons, you must stay away from yourptop. Tonight, Ill see how to deal with the resentful souls in your house, I told him.


    There are resentful souls in my house? Meng Dongye seemed to understand something. No wonder I had a strange feeling. I felt as though people were moving around in my house. Do you know who they are?


    I took out my cell phone and checked a few names. Four authors had been tortured to death by this brush. Two were webnovel authors specialized in fantasy and sci-fi novels respectively. The other two wrote romance and detective stories.


    I found a few lines about their deaths on the Inte, which said that they had killed themselves due to immense pressure. I also read about some of their nominated works.


    Unfortunately, a star wearing mismatching shoes drew more attention than the death of a writer, so there wasnt much info.


    Anyway, I noticed that the four deaths were pretty close to each other. The first two died in March, the third died in April, and the fourth died in May.


    This brush should have a history of more than one thousand years. Perhaps it was buried for quite a long time, and when it resurfaced, it started to kill people immediately.


    I asked Yin Xinyue to stay here and watch Meng Dongye with me. I then told Li Mazi to fetch me some items and return before 8:00 PM.


    Meng Dongye sank into his sofa and yawed; he looked like a drug addict. I asked him to get some sleep because he might have to stay up tonight.


    Dont worry. Im fine. He answered, and then started to discuss his new script with me. He was high-spirited.


    I felt annoyed. Yin Xinyue stood up and told us that she was going to get us something to drink. After a while, she came back with three sses of lemonade. She offered Meng Dongye a ss. He gulped it down while talking, yawned and and then fell asleep right after.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. I put some sleeping pills in his drink.


    Where did you get those pills?


    Yin Xinyue answered with a smile. I had them with me. Last time, I was exhausted from work but couldnt fall asleep, so I saw the doctor and got some sleeping pills.


    Dear, youre so smart! My eyes brightened.


    After Meng Dongye fell asleep, I went to check his work. He had written around one hundred thousand words for his new script. He was really incredible.


    I read a few chapters. Aside from the many spelling mistakes, the script was excellent.


    I asked Yin Xinyue, Have you ever written a novel?


    She shook her head. The longest thing Ive ever written in my life was probably my job application letter, which was around four or five thousand words.


    The longest thing Ive written Hmm, it should be a self-criticism letter in high school. I smiled.


    What kind of self-criticism was it? Did you flip a girls skirt? Or did you bully your ssmate? Yin Xinyue found it interesting.


    How could I tell you about my dark history? I answered cunningly.


    No, tell me!


    When Yin Xinyue started to pester me, I told her that I hadnt eaten lunch yet. As neither of us had lunch yet, she decided to go downstairs to get something to eat.


    After Yin Xinyue left, I tried to ce my hands on the keyboard and gazed at the magic brush. Suddenly, my head buzzed, and my fingers automatically tapped the keyboard.


    I hurried to read the sacred text of Daoism to calm my mind; my fingers then stopped moving. Still, my back was damp with sweat.


    I looked at the screen and saw what I had just typed. Save us. Save us Its so painful here Please release us We havent finished our works Please, were begging you


    Were the four authors asking me for help?

 Chapter 420: Activate the Formation

    Chapter 420: Activate the Formation


    When Yin Xinyue returned with two lunchboxes, I had finished searching for something on the Inte and was in the middle of a phone call. After I hung up the call, she asked, Brother Zhang, who did you call?


    The editors. I found their numbers on the Inte. I called them to ask for information about the authors.


    While talking, I finished jotting down the second authors real name, address, and even their birthday. Then, I started to search for the contact of the third author.


    Soon, I got the personal information of all four authors. I tore the note and put it into my pocket. Then, I opened the lunch box and dug in.


    I searched for thetest novels of the two webnovel authors. The readers had to buy theirtest chapters, so I registered an ount and added a few hundred renminbi into my ount. I now knew it wasnt easy to write novels. I couldnt just pirate them.


    These two novels had a lot of readers. However, since the authors hadntpleted the work they started, people left harshments in thement section. They cursed the irresponsible authors for dropping the novels halfway. However, after they learned that the authors had passed away, theirments turned apologetic and regretful.


    I guessed this was the reason why their souls couldnt be free.


    I told Yin Xinyue my idea.


    She was surprised. They made their iplete work their fixation?


    I think so. Although I havent experienced it myself, I think it must be aplicated feeling. That brush used their obsession to bind their souls, I exined.


    Could it just be a coincidence? asked Yin Xinyue.


    Im afraid not. That brush deliberately did that. All of them died right before their work waspleted. I took a deep breath.


    In other words, when Meng Dongye is almost done with his script, he will die?


    Dont you see his current physical and mental conditions? Its likely to happen! I was worried. Yin Xinyue, can you check yourwork and see if you can contact the publishers of the two other authors? I want to see theirst manuscripts.


    There was only one method to solve the resentment of the four ghosts. We had to help them finish their work!


    This could be the most difficult task I had undertaken since I had started this business, and I wasnt sure if I could do it. I guessed I would have to invite someone to help me.


    I nned to perform a trick tonight to subdue the brushs magical power. If I could get it to leave Meng Dongye alone for a few days, I would have more time.


    It was a few hours until nighttime.


    Yin Xinyue, if you feel bored here, you should go out for a walk. Ill stay and watch him.


    Its okay. Dont worry.


    Since I had nothing to do, I started to read the fantasy novel.


    Brother Zhang, have you ever considered writing some stories when you retire? I think many people would like to read what youve experienced.


    Let me see. Every day, I would have to rush to bring our son to school, teach our daughter to write, and then change our youngest''s diaper. I dont think I will have enough time to write.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. How greedy you are! Our country only allows two children. How many kids are you nning to have?


    Okay, two then. One son and one daughter. Perfect! I stroked Yin Xinyues face.


    Since our surroundings were quiet, my desire surfaced. I hugged and motioned Yin Xinyue to head to the bed. I was ready to create our first son.


    She didnt really object to it. Were in someones house. Can you mind your image a bit?


    Thats not important. Hes sleeping like a dead pig.


    Then, you shouldnt be loud


    While we were having a good time, Li Mazi returned. We immediately parted and sat orderly as if nothing had happened.


    Li Mazi brought two big bags and was sweating hard. Little Brother Zhang, Im fast, arent I? I got everything within two hours!


    You were great. Youre getting better by the day I had topliment him.


    After chatting for a while, it was six oclock. The three of us took turns to go out for dinner.


    The sky turned dark. I started the preparations and took the stuff out of the bags. There was wolf hide, water-ink, rooster blood, brushes, silk threads, and an oxtail.


    Meng Dongye was awakened by the noise. He rubbed his eyes. How did I fall asleep? Mr. Zhang, are we going to do it now?


    Were preparing the items. Just sit there and watch.


    Meng Dongye watched me with interest. I lit the oxtail and swayed it around the apartment. The oxtail was sometimes used to expel evil. Since the ox had to use its tail to shoo the flies away all the time, its tail could expel evil spirits to a certain extent. However, its power wasnt as prominent as rooster blood or coins.


    The four authors werent that evil, so we didnt need to use those powerful things to deal with them. I didnt want to hurt them.


    I smoked the entire apartment except for the toilet. If I scared the four ghosts out of the brush, they would naturally run to the toilet. Once the souls started to flee, the brush would be greatly weakened.


    Then, I mixed the rooster blood and the water ink, using the mixture to draw a formation in the living room. After I smeared the rooster blood on the magic brush, I tied a silk thread to it and hung it in the middle of the formation. Then, I did the same to the other brushes Li Mazi had bought and hung them ording to the Eight Diagrams Formation. The threads used to hang those brushes had the same length except for the one in the North direction. I made it a little shorter.


    Meng Dongye was curious and asked what I was doing every time. I was patient enough to exin things to him.


    After everything was done, I unfolded the wolf skin.


    What are you going to do with it? asked Meng Dongye.


    I exined, Usually, two kinds of materials are used to make the brush nib. The first is wolf hair and the second is rabbit hair. However, wolf-hair brushes are actually made of weasel hair. Ive checked the magic brush, and its made of rabbit hair. Since rabbits are afraid of wolves, you should wrap this piece of skin around your body. It can keep you safe for a while.


    That makes sense! Meng Dongye nodded. Ive seen Daoist priests prepare altars in the past. They created a mess by scattering papers around, so I thought that you would do the same. However, it turns out theres a reason for everything. Im convinced now.


    I smiled. When you write, do you just make things up?


    Of course not. Although the plot is fictional, every detail should be reasonable and make sense.


    Our profession is the same. We cant just use anything we want. There are things we should and should not use.


    I asked him to put on the wolf skin and told him to stay in his room. If I didnt call him, he shouldnt get out of his room.


    Then, I sat down cross-legged on the floor and started to read the incantation. Soon, the suspended brushes started to shake, and the lights in the room began to flicker.


    Brother Zhang, the formations activated! Yin Xinyue sounded excited.


    I nodded and continued to read the incantation. The eight brushes shook harder. The magic brush in the center also reacted. However, it didnt shake but spun around as if it was trying to break the thread.


    The magic brush wasnt a strong otherworldly item by itself, so my formation could subdue it. If everything went smoothly tonight, I nned to expel the four souls out of the brush, which would allow me to deal with it easily.


    Soon, a drop of ck fluid slowly dripped from the nib of the brush, forming the upper body of a man. The man grew bigger and bigger. In the end, the soul of the first author wormed out of the nib


    After he fell to the ground and shakily got up, he raised his hands and moved toward me. I was sitting outside the formation. However, he bumped into an invisible barrier. He then changed his direction and bumped here and there. Eventually, he went toward the North.


    After he finally escaped the formation, he held his throat as if he couldnt breathe. He madly ran around the house until he made his way to the toilet.


    I gave Li Mazi a Ksitigarbha Talisman and asked him to adhere it to the toilet door and close the door right after. He needed to wait for my signal to open the doorter.


    Li Mazi nodded and went to do what I had asked. At this moment, the second soul was wiggling out of the brushs nib. However, he wasnt as lucky as the first one. He spent a long time inside the Eight Diagrams but couldnt find the way out. In the end, he felt drained and was sucked into one of the ordinary brushes that hung around.


    I immediately grabbed that brush and stirred it in the mixture of ink and rooster blood. At the same time, I asked Yin Xinyue to take another brush from the bag to rece the position of the previous one on the Eight Diagrams.

 Chapter 421: Life-Endangering Illusion

    Chapter 421: Life-Endangering Illusion


    My n went smoothly, having extracted two of the writers souls. Perhaps we could finish the task tonight before it was toote, and I could have enough time to take Yin Xinyue out for supper.


    Of course, it was just a random thought. I didnt dare be careless even for a moment. My eyes stayed fixed on the magic brush, waiting for the third soul toe out.


    Suddenly, someone hit the bathroom door from the inside. Li Mazi kicked the door, shouting, Hey! Stay put. Behave yourself in there!


    Someone started to sob inside the toilet. We heard a male voice crying and whining, Let me out! I want to finish my work! I have to give my readers justice. I dont want them to curse me as someone who leaves things unfinished!


    The Ksitigarbha Talisman had separated the soul from the power of the magic brush. That was why we could hear their real feelings. The guy had always been obsessed with finishing his novel.


    I told him, Rx! Tomorrow, Im going to help youplete your novel. Im sure both you and your readers will be satisfied!


    Is that so? Then, how could I repay this favor of yours?


    This voice came from behind my body. I turned and saw a bleeding man standing behind me, reaching his long fingernails toward my neck.


    Everything happened so suddenly that I screamed in fright. Instinctively, I backed away. His hand passed through my body, and then he turned into a mist, vanishing. Yin Xinyue also saw this, visibly frightened.


    It isnt real, Iforted her. This brush doesnt have much power. It can only fabricate illusions. Dont be scared.


    I looked at the bathroom and saw that the talisman was still intact. We were lucky that the soul was still locked inside. All of a sudden, the tables and chairs in the room began to move. They scraped loudly against the floor, and the vases on the shelf began to crack. The magic brush spun faster and faster, trying to escape the thread.


    Not good!


    I lowered my head to see my palms. Earlier, I identally touched and destroyed a part of the formation. With this opportunity, the magic brush seized this chance to strike back.


    I couldnt let it run away. I hurried to grab a brush and dip it into the mixture of blood and ink, fixing the formation.


    But right at that time, my surroundings suddenly turned dark. All the lights in the room were off. I frowned, A power outage now? Of all times?


    The bedroom door suddenly sprang open, and Meng Dongye rushed out, screaming, Its my brush! No one can touch it! I changed my mind! I changed my mind!


    He cried, then jumped into the formation, reaching his hand and grabbing the magic brush. I was startled and got up to stop him, but it waspletely dark, and my vision was limited. Meng Dongye bumped into me, and if Yin Xinyue didnt support me from behind, I would have fallen.


    Li Mazi! Stop him! I called.


    Got it! Li Mazi ran forward. However, he stumbled on something along the wall, falling and crying out loudly.


    Yin Xinyue quickly took out her mobile phone, turning on the shlight. We then saw four faceless, bleeding men standing in front of us. She shrieked in fear, jumping into my arms. She didnt dare to look at them another time.


    Iforted her. Dont be scared. They are just illusions! I waved my hand, and the four ghosts disappeared.


    It appeared that Meng Dongye ran away while we were distracted. We heard his footsteps in the corridor. I never expected things would go this way. If I had known earlier, I would have tied him up!


    Hurry up! Go get him! Dont let him run away! I was restless in our pursuit of the magic brush.


    Li Mazi was nearest to the door, so he moved first. However, the door was on the right, but he ran to the left. I sensed that something was wrong, but before I could open my mouth to call out for him, Li Mazi banged into the door with a heavy thud. He must have seen the stars.


    It turned out the door he saw just now was an illusion created by the magic brush. The real door was right where it used to be.


    He rubbed his bruised, swelling forehead and cursed, This damn brush is absolutely vile. If it falls into my hand, Ill soak it in swine piss for a whole year!


    The magic brushs lethality was far lower than other otherworldly items we had confronted in the past, but it made up for it with higher intelligence.


    We followed Meng Dongye outside, who was running while holding a bag. No matter how hard we called for him, he didnt even turn around. The people living in the building looked at us as if we were crazy.


    Yin Xinyue asked, Didnt he wear the wolf hide? How did the otherworldly item get the best of him?


    He wasnt controlled. He just changed his mind. He doesnt want to let this brush go I sighed.


    Compared to otherworldly items, human greed was far more unpredictable. I cursed him under my breath. He was tortured until he became like this but still treasured the brush.


    When we came to the road, we saw Meng Dongye hurriedly getting into a car, fleeing away.


    Li Mazi suggested getting back to our car and chasing after him.


    We wont make it in time! I said as I waved a taxi down.


    I took the co-driver seat, talking to the driver. Sir, please follow that car. Dont let it run away!


    The driver sounded high-spirited. Whats going on? It looks like youre shooting a movie!


    I withheld the truth. Please hurry. The man driving that car is my uncle. He ran away from a mental hospital, and hes extremely dangerous. We must bring him back. Ill pay you double the standard fee.


    All right! Sit tight!


    The driver stepped on the elerator, following the car in front of us.


    The two cars kept a distance of around twenty meters from each other. Meng Dongyes car was running in circles as if he didnt have a destination.


    When the car stopped at a traffic light, I saw Meng Dongye sitting in the back seat, hanging his head. Something bright and rectangr was ced on his knees. It looked like a notebook!


    Damn, hes writing in the back of the car! Hespletely crazy! Li Mazi eximed.


    I could now understand the power of the brush. It could magnify human greed endlessly, which continued to overwhelm everything else.


    Meng Dongye didnt realize that he would never be able to finish his current script. Every time he typed a word, he was one step closer to his death.


    Yin Xinyue took out her phone, calling Meng Dongye, but his phone was turned off. Wed been after him for around one hour at this point.


    After crossing a viaduct, the driver checked his meter, reminding me, Buddy, we''ve been driving for more than one hundred kilometers. Do you still want to run after him?


    I checked the meter. The fee was more than two hundred renminbi already. I directly paid the driver four hundred. Yeah, please, after him!


    The driver looked happy and took the money. Okay, okay. Customers are God! Ill listen to your request!


    Right at this moment, arge truck drove directly towards us. I knew it was an illusion created by the brush because even though the truck was rushing fast, it didnt even raise a speck of dust behind it. However, the driver was still scared. He immediately turned the wheel to the left.


    I hurried to grab the wheel to stop him. The truck hit us, and the driver let out an ear-splitting shriek, which shook my eardrums. Following that, the truck turned into a mist, disappearing.


    Dont be afraid. Its just an illusion


    The driver suddenly stomped on the brake. Under the influence of inertia, I lurched forward and almost hit the windshield. He screamed crazily, Get out! Get out of my car! Im not going to drive you anymore! Even if you give me more money!


    Sir, have mercy. If we dont follow him, hell die soon! Yin Xinyue begged the driver.


    We ttered him so much that we almost sang the Yunnan folk song, Old Driver Take Me With You. However, the driver unwaveringly denied us. Eventually, we had to get out of his car.


    Li Mazi jotted his te number down and said that he was going to report this car. The driver scolded, Youre all crazy!


    After saying this, he drove away, sending exhaust smoke towards our faces as if in revenge.


    Seeing Meng Dongyes car leaving far away, I felt discouraged.

 Chapter 422: Whos the Murderer?

    Chapter 422: Who''s the Murderer?


    When we returned to the apartment, I found a pair of scissors stabbed into the electrical outlet in Meng Dongyes bedroom. No wonder we lost electricity all of a sudden. Meng Dongye had truly gone crazy!


    The resentful soul was still in the toilet, knocking on the door andining, Release me! I want to finish my work!


    I found four disposable paper cups and wrote the names and birthdays of the authors on one cup each. After that, I burned some paper and scattered the ash on the coffee table, cing the paper cups on it before dropping an old coin in each cup. Then, I asked Li Mazi to open the bathroom.


    A cold wind blew out from the toilet, and one of the paper cups snapped. I checked the information, seeing that it was the online author who wrote fantasy books. I used a marker and wrote Xianxia  Xuanhuan on the bottom of the cup. Next, I took out the brush in which I had sealed one of the souls and broke it. Another cup snapped on the table. This time, it was the author who wrote mystery novels. I wrote Mystery to mark the cup.


    The magic brush must be significantly weakened. I calcted and guessed that we would have around one week left.


    I spoke to the other two. We should seize this moment. Tonight, well get someone to finish the dead writers works. Do you know any writers?


    They shook their heads. I continued, I have an old ssmate who is a webnovel author. However, he writes about tomb robbers. He cant do this for us.


    Even if he cant help you, you can ask him for some information. Since he works in this industry, Im sure he knows someone in hiswork who can aid us, said Yin Xinyue.


    She had a point, so I immediately called that friend of mine. Since we hadnt talked for years, when the line was through, I had to catch up with him. Hey brother, how are you doing? Married yet?


    Then, I went straight to the main topic.


    Brother, I need your help. I need to find some writers toplete a few dropped novels. Do you know any authors who write fantasy, romance, sci-fi, or mystery genres? They must be reliable. Im sure the pay will satisfy them.


    Arent you working in the antique business? Why did you suddenly change topleting some iplete novels? My friend from the other end of the line sounded amazed.


    Its a long story. If youre interested, well pick a date to talk. Im sure hearing about the various situations Ive been in throughout these years will be enough to give you plenty of ideas for a great novel.


    My old friend was excited. Excellent! Ive been worriedtely since I couldnt find any new inspiration. Itd be perfect if you could provide me with more material. All right, Ill give you my editors contact. He manages a whole group of writers, a few hundred authors on Mars Novels. Theyre skilled at what they do. Im sure youll be able to find someone suitable.


    I thanked him, then hung up. He sent me a phone number within the next minute.


    Yin Xinyue said, Im good at these sorts of conversations. Let me talk to the editor. You and Li Mazi can be at ease.


    All right.


    I felt relieved now that Yin Xinyue was working on it. At this time, my primary concern was Meng Dongyes whereabouts. Searching for a man in the vast city of Wuhan wasnt different from looking for a needle in the middle of the sea. Moreover, since the area we had to search was so immense, even if we useda thousand tracking paper cranes, we wouldnt sense him.


    Nevertheless, the situation wasntpletely hopeless. First, I could narrow the area that Meng Dongye could be hiding in. I rummaged through Meng Dongyes house and found his ID and credit cards inside the bedside table. I guessed that he only had cash with him. He couldnt get out of the city, and if he wanted to stay in a hotel, he couldnt stay in a decent one that would require him to show his ID.


    I found a spare backup phone of his, which stored many of his friends and rtives phone numbers. I took it and put it in my pocket.


    Seeing as we finished preparing, we decided to leave. Since Li Mazi broke the lock, I asked him to find a locksmith to install a new one. After everything was done, we returned to my antique shop. It was already around eleven oclock at night.


    I asked Yin Xinyue and Li Mazi to go home and rest. Tomorrow, we would carry on with the n.


    The next morning, I called all of Meng Dongyes friends and rtives. I told them that I was his assistant and he was missing. However, they told me they hadnt seen him for a long time. After Meng Dongyes parents discovered that their son was missing, they became very anxious. Through the call, Iforted them and utilized all of my abilities to calm the old couple.


    Calling all of the numbers on his phone wasnt helpful. I felt a little annoyed and smoked a cigarette. Li Mazi came looking for me. Have you eaten yet? We should have lunch.


    It appeared that I was, indeed, hungry. We went to a Chongqing grilled fish restaurant, ordering two beers and a grilled fish. While eating, I asked Li Mazi to check the hotels that didnt need the customers to show the ID within the city. We needed to know where Meng Dongye had been staying.


    Li Mazi was worried. Wuhan is a big city. There could be eight hundred or one thousand cheap hotels like that. How and where could I search for him?


    If the two of us cant find him, we should hire some private investigators. We must find him, I said reluctantly.


    How much will this cost? This stupid brush is only worth three hundred thousand renminbi, and I dont have much money on me. Perhaps well have topensate out of our own pockets! Li Mazi seethed.


    We cant just consider what were getting in the short-term. My grandfather used to tell me that while working as a merchant, especially an otherworldly merchant, everything must start with your conscience. After you have that, you may talk about earning money. If you have a good reputation, cases wille to your door unceasingly.


    Li Mazi nodded. Youre right. After lunch, Ill work on it.


    For the next three days, Li Mazi continued to search. Now and then, he sent me some texts to vent his anger. I promised him that once this case was over, I would treat him to a nice meal.


    Yin Xinyue aplished her task. She negotiated with Mars Novels and contacted the editors of two authors to get the work started. I would pay them with my own money.


    The n toplete the unfinished novels wasing along quite nicely.


    I checked the status of the two online novels quite often. The list of new chapters was now updated. The readers had different reactions. Some said that the new writer was eptable because he could capture the intent of the original author well. However, someined that thetest chapters werent as well-written as the previous ones and didnt have the same writing style as the previous author.


    Of course, I didnt care about thosements. We would never satisfy everyone''s tastes. I just needed the authors to put their all into writing and finishing the novels.


    On the fourth day after Meng Dongye had gone missing, Yin Xinyue called me. The young author writing the mystery has a problem.


    Whats that?


    Its hard to exin properly through the phone. Ill bring him to you.


    In the afternoon, Yin Xinyue brought a young man to my shop. He looked to be around twenty-five years old and was disheveled and pale. Yin Xinyue introduced us, and I learned that the young man was called Wang Xu.


    Whats the matter? I asked.


    I cant write anymore


    You cant get into it? Is it the writing style? It doesnt matter. If you dont want to write anymore, Ill ask the editor to change the writer, and Ill pay you for the work youve done. Iforted him.


    No, not that! Wang Xu shook his head. I dont know whos the real murderer!


    What? I was stunned. Wang Xu then exined that the mystery novel he was writing had many intelligent andplicated clues. There were around a dozen characters, and everyone seemed to have something that connected them to the murder. The mystery genre was different from other genres. He needed to know the authors original idea when he started to write the novel. Otherwise, if he just haphazardly wrote an ending, the editor wouldnt let it be published, knowing the readers wouldnt buy it.


    After listening to him, I felt myself getting a headache. What should we do now? Youre a professional writer, and if you cant guess it, neither can I


    Sigh, if only the original author could tell me who the murderer is, it would be so helpful, Wang Xu said regretfully.


    Wait a second! I had a sh of inspiration. I have a solution. Were going to ask the author directly!

 Chapter 423: Pen Ouija

    Chapter 423: Pen Ouija


    I started to prepare immediately. I hung a rollerball pen above a standard-sized sheet of paper, allowing the pen''s nib to touch it.


    I was going to use the pen Ouija method!


    However, this version of the method would be different from how it wasmonly employed. When ordinary people used this method, they would attract a random nearby ghost to answer their questions, but I would be inviting a specific ghost for this case.


    Using rooster blood, I drew a circle around the paper. I wanted to ensure that nothing could escape or enter the circle!


    Once Ipleted the preparations, I ced the paper cup containing the mystery novel authors soul onto the table, offering three incense sticks. I wanted to feed the soul before continuing.


    Wang Xu watched me prepare with an amazed expression, Xinyue said that youre an antique merchant. How could an antique merchant know how to do this?


    These days, you must have a variety of talents to survive. I smiled at him.


    Next, I opened the seal of the cup, and a wisp of chilly wind swirled up, entering the pen.


    I cleared my throat and asked some questions for verification. Who are you?


    The pen began to move, writing the name of the author. Wang Xu stared at the paper, feeling shocked.


    I took the sheet of paper away and ced another one down. Who is the murderer in your mystery novel,The Bloody Apartment?


    The pen didnt move. I knew that the author didnt want to answer this sort of question, so I had to exin that we were helping him finish his novel.


    Since the story had many connected plotlines and all of the characters were suspicious but had logical alibis, we couldnt figure out the murderer. That was why we had to invite the original author here to help us.


    In the end, I managed to convince the author. The pen slowly wrote a few words on the paper: Tenant Number Three.


    Oh, so its that person! Wang Xu was thrilled. Yeah, thats the mostpelling and reasonable ending. I got it now. Totally got it!


    Is everything fine now? I asked.


    Yes, it is. Wang Xu nodded.


    My interest was piqued. When the book is published, send me a copy.


    Wang Xu agreed.


    Mr. Zhang, your trick was marvelous. If you have time, you shouldter invite the soul of Cao Xueqins ghost. He should finish his book,Dream of the Red Chamber[1]too!


    You sure have some strange thoughts. Where would I even find Cao Xueqins ghost? I burst outughing.


    Before I sent the authors soul off, Yin Xinyue asked me curiously, Brother Zhang, I have never yed Ouija before. Can I ask something?


    Sure, I nodded.


    Yin Xinyue thought for a moment before asking, Pen, do you think Im beautiful?


    A momentter, the pen wrote, Yes.


    I felt amused by the situation. What kind of question is that. That was too obvious.


    All right, another question then. Yin Xinyue contemted and asked her second question, Who killed you?


    The newspapers reported that this author had killed himself due to stress. I thought that he would write the word suicide, but I was proven wrong as the rollerball pen wrote a name: Brother Wei.


    Yin Xinyue and I were shocked. I hurriedly asked, Why did Brother Wei want to kill you?


    The pen didnt move this time. I assumed that even the victim didnt know why he was murdered. Finished with my questions, I burned three more incense sticks to send the authors ghost back into the paper cup.


    I never expected that ying Ouija would provide us with the truth. It turned out that Brother Wei sold the magic brush to those writers, and after it killed one of them, he took the brush and sold it to the next author. No wonder the resentful souls kept pestering him! This was the most despicable act in the otherworldly itemmunity. If this urred during my grandfathers time, Brother Wei would have been eradicated.


    Once Yin Xinyue left with Wang Xu, I called some acquaintances that also knew Brother Wei. They told me that Brother Wei hadnt been home for quite a long time. His wife took their kids back to her mothers house, and his shop was closed as well. No one knew where he was.


    After I learned of this, I spread the recently obtained news in our Circle, offering a reward of one hundred thousand renminbi for those who could tell me Brother Weis whereabouts. This time, I was resolved to remove this scumbag from our Circle at any cost!


    Li Mazi called me the next day, telling me that he had found Meng Dongye. Little Brother Zhang, you shoulde quickly. This fellow has almost killed himself from writing. Ive tried talking to him, but he wont listen.


    Wait for me.


    I drove to the address Li Mazi sent me with some difficulty as I wasnt familiar with this route. I had to ask many people for directions to get to thehostel''slocation. When I arrived, I headed straight to the third floor, hearing Li Mazis voiceing from an open door.


    As I entered the room, I saw Meng Dongye sitting on a chair with an infusion stand next to him. He had a glucose drip attached to his arm while writing. He was smoking a cigarette and frowning. Ashes were scattered all over his keyboard, but his fingers still glided quickly across the keyboard. Meng Dongye didnt even take the time to brush away the ashes.


    Seeing Meng Dongye alive, I heaved a sigh of relief.


    Finally, youre here! Look at him. I talked to him, and he almost started a fight with me. Li Mazi said with a sour expression.


    Screenwriter Meng,e with me! I advised him.


    Get lost! Dont interfere with my love for writing. I need to write another two hundred thousand words. Once that has been done, I will hand the brush back to you Meng Dongye said.


    No matter what, you wont be able to finish this script.


    Dont speak nonsense. Stay away from me, and do not disturb me. This is the best way for you to help me! Meng Dongye pushed my hand away.


    I didnt know whether I should cry orugh. Since we couldnt convince him to stop writing, we would have to resort to tying him up.


    But at this moment, I smelled the scent of blood in the air. I turned to scan the room. The bedsheets were neatly arranged; it seemed that Meng Dongye hadnt slept for two days. There was no blood on the ground, either.


    I lifted my head, asking Li Mazi, Did you also smell blood in the air just now?


    You smelled something? Li Mazi sniffed. I didnt catch anything!


    Excuse me, could you please hand me the ashtray? Meng Dongye asked as he held his cigarette.


    I didnt sense anything off, so I reached to grab the ashtray. It was made of industrial ss, which was heavy and thick. Although it looked clean, I felt something sticky on it. I checked again and saw blood!


    I turned around to see the rest of the room only to find out that Li Mazi and Meng Dongye were no longer there. I saw only one man lying on the ground, his head bleeding.


    Blood was all over the ground, and my footprints were everywhere.


    And the bloody, still-dripping ashtray in my hand was the murder weapon!


    My head buzzed. I knew I was set up.


    I dropped the heavy ashtray and rushed out of the room. Two cops walked toward me from the other end of the corridor, screaming, Freeze!


    I felt I was done for.I couldnte clean even if I jumped into the Yellow River! I immediately dashed away with the cops chasing after me.


    When I left the hostel, I saw my car parked a short distance away. I rushed over there. But all of a sudden, a hand grabbed my cor, pulling me back. I saw that it was Li Mazi, and I realized that I was standing on the road, a heavy truck roaring past me.


    If he hadnt pulled me back, I would have been crushed!


    I turned around. There was no cop chasing after me.


    Little Brother Zhang, were you controlled? I called you, but you didnt listen to me. You headed directly to the road! Li Mazi looked panicked.


    Why were you standing here? I asked.


    I was afraid that you werent familiar with the streets here, so I stayed and waited for you. I didnt notice you until just now, Li Mazi said.


    I understood what had happened. The room, the cops, and the car were just an illusion. The magic brush tricked me. However, the blood that I touched and the man on the ground were real. It was Meng Dongye. Someone had attacked him!


    Not good! We must get back in there quickly! I cried.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dream_of_the_Red_Chamber

 Chapter 424: The Yin-Finding Paper Boat

    Chapter 424: The Yin-Finding Paper Boat


    The recent illusions werent simr to the previous ones I encountered. This time, they sought to lead me toward the road instead of scaring me.


    After he obtained the magic brush, I remember Meng Dongye telling me that, as long as he had the story in his head, the corresponding images would appear in front of his eyes. It seemed the person using the brush could control the illusions created!


    Li Mazi and I rushed back to the hostel. When we got back to the room, Meng Dongye was lying on the ground. But contrary to my expectations, there was no wound on his head. I checked the ashtray next to him. It did contain blood, but it wasnt from any injury. Meng Dongye had simply vomited blood.


    The magic brush had severely affected Meng Dongyes body; the trash bin next to him was filled with blood-stained tissues. Hisptop showed his unfinished script, and there was an infusion stand near theptop where several empty glucose bottles hung.


    Oh, boy. Do you want to make the entirety of China weep? You continue to write even though youre vomiting blood. We wouldnt be able to find an author like you even if we searched the entire globe! Li Mazi joked.


    We walked up to him and helped him sit up. I ced a finger under his nose to check his breathing. He was still breathing, but it was feeble.


    After I called him a few times, Meng Dongye woke up. Help Help me up. I can write more! I can still write!


    Mr. Meng, you should rest. Im afraid you will die if you do not.


    Its worth it if I die for Chinas film and television industry! His mind was muddled, and he started to talk nonsense.


    He suddenly screamed. My brush! Who took my brush! Did you? Did you?!


    Where did you put your brush? I asked.


    On the table. Hurry, find it for me. Its my lifeblood! After saying this, he started to cry.


    I immediately understood what happened. When Li Mazi went outside to wait for me, Brother Wei took the chance to enter Meng Dongyes room and steal the brush.


    I presume Brother Wei was around when I entered the hostel, and he used the magic brush to create those illusions and get rid of me.


    Li Mazi, get me something that can hold water. A basin or a bucket is fine, I said.


    I then took a piece of paper and folded it into a boat. Li Mazi found a used instant noodle bowl. He cleaned it and poured some water into it before handing it to me. I took out a small bottle of corpse oil and dripped one drop on the boat. With thatplete, I ced the boat in the water.


    This paper boat could sense nearby Yin energy. Soon, it started to spin before stopping to point in a direction.


    That way!


    I held the noodle bowl, leaving the hostel with Li Mazi. On the way, I reminded Li Mazi that the magic brush could create illusions. If he saw something out of ce, he should touch it to certify that it was real.


    You say that, but if a sexy beauty shows up, should I touch her? If its a real person, I would bebelled as a perv, right? Li Mazi muttered.


    Im talking about distinct situations. For example, you see another me in front of you! I said.


    What if he uses this trick to make me touch high-voltage electricity? I banged my head into the wallst time, and the swelling only went down after three days


    Yeah, I recall.


    After shooting that idea down, Li Mazi and I came up with a passcode to verify each others identity. If something seemed off and the other party couldnt provide the passcode, that meant they were an illusion.


    The paper boat led us to a parking lot where I saw Brother Wei in a car, about to leave. Li Mazi stopped the car and hit the hood.


    You bastard, get out here!


    Brother Wei got out of the car, rolling his eyes and thundering, Who the hell are you? Are you crazy?


    This voice wasnt right. I blinked and scrutinized the man closer. This wasnt Brother Wei; it was a burly Northeastern man wearing a thick gold chain. He was two-heads taller than Li Mazi, and there was a suggestively-dressed woman inside the car. They were making out, and Li Mazi had disturbed them.


    Li Mazi was terrified. He apologized and said that he got the wrong person. However, therge man didnt believe him. He grabbed Li Mazi by his cor and prepared to hit him.


    Little Brother Zhang, help! Li Mazi sounded as if he was about to cry.


    Try and put up with him for a while. Iming right away!


    Seeing Brother Wei in another car, I had to ditch Li Mazi to run after him.


    When I arrived, I saw no one in the car, which made me furious.


    I turned around, and the previously empty parking lot was suddenly filled with a countless number of people, old and young. I was positive that they were just illusions created by Brother Wei so that he could escape safely.


    I took out the Sirius Whip. As soon as the people were hit, they turned into smoke.


    Little Brother Zhang, help me!


    I suddenly heard Li Mazi screaming, and I turned to him. He was pressed on the ground. His teeth were gone, his mouth bleeding. My heart sank. This was my fault.


    Little Brother Zhang, how could you leave me! Youre not my brother at all. I came to help you, and you repaid my favor by abandoning me! Li Mazi sounded like he was dying.


    I discovered that something was off. With his silver-tongue, Li Mazi would try his best to beg for his assants mercy. How could he be beaten up like this?


    These illusions were exceptionally annoying. To make things easier, I used a lighter to heat the tassel of my Sirius Whip before swinging it around and releasing some blue smoke. The Sirius Whip was made of ash-gray wolf skin from North of the Gobi Desert. It had a strong, evil-repelling power.


    Sure enough, the smoke cleared away all of the illusions. I saw Brother Wei standing a distance away with a horrified expression on his face.


    Dont run!


    I immediately chased after him andshed the Sirius Whip, which then coiled around his ankle. Brother Wei stumbled, falling on all fours like a dog. Something in his hand was sent flying away. It was the magic brush he stole earlier.


    I became incensed once again. I coiled the Sirius Whip around his throat and demanded that he tell me the truth from head to tail, leaving nothing out.


    Were colleagues, please dont act harshly! I just wanted to earn money to make ends meet. Brother Wei begged me.


    Make ends meet? Your dirty money is tainted with blood. Today, I will erase this malignant tumor from our Circle! I bellowed.


    I didnt have any otherworldly items with me, so I just took out a Ksitigarbha Talisman, crumpled it, and shoved it into his mouth. As soon as I read the incantation, this thing will torture you until you wish you could die.


    Brother Wei was frightened by this prospect, his face turning ash-gray. He promised to tell the truth, so I released him.


    Actually, these five writers are just the appetizer. Theres a filthy rich client waiting for the brush, said Brother Wei.


    What do you mean?


    Brother Wei told me the whole story. Half a year ago, he bought this magic brush from a farmer. He immediately got a client who was a renowned author. The client agreed to purchase this brush for the price of ten million renminbi.


    Brother Wei brought the brush to his client, showing him how the item worked. As a result, he created an excellent piece of ssic Chinese literature.


    This magic brush could absorb an individuals talent and umte it. Yet, there was a problem. All of the brushs knowledge came from writers who lived during ancient times. Due to this, it could only write in styles from that period. The client decided to give up on buying the brush.


    Brother Wei didnt want to let the meal escape his mouth. He promised the client that he would make the brush be able to write modern novels within six months.


    Then, he started to find his prey. The first one was an online fantasy novel writer. Since the unfortunate authors writing style was simr to the one used in ancient times, the magic brush was a perfect fit for him. Brother Wei sold the brush to him at the price of one hundred thousand renminbi.


    Not even one month had passed, and the writer was tormented to death. Brother Wei used his contacts to retrieve the brush. He then sold it to the second writer, eventually killing four people this way. As he was trying to find the fifth one, Meng Dongye brought himself to his door.


    Still, this brush has a deadly side effect. Did you inform the client who wanted to buy it with ten million renminbi? I asked.


    Actually, this side effect can be bypassed. Brother Wei finally told the truth.


    What? I was shocked.

 Chapter 425: Money is Valuable, but Talent is Priceless

    Chapter 425: Money is Valuable, but Talent is Priceless


    Brother Wei exined that supplying blood to the brush was no different from offering ones soul. The user could write a masterpiece in just a short time. However, the price he had to pay for this ability was his own life.


    If the user didnt offer the brush his blood, the side effects wouldnt be that fierce. He would feel dizzy and lose his hair at most. As a consequence, the brushs effect would be weaker, but the inspiration it provided could make a writer famous for many years.


    Who is that big client of yours? He told me a name, and I became overwhelmed at the discovery. It was indeed a famous webnovel author.


    I decided to take the brush with me. Brother Wei asked me to destroy the talisman I had him swallow, but I told him that he should repent for his sins first. If he wronged others again, I would use an even scarier method to deal with him.


    If this scumbag lived in my grandpas time, his fellow otherworldly merchants would have closed the door and eradicated him already. Nevertheless, since we lived in a society governed byws, I couldnt just kill him.


    I returned to the other side of the parking lot to find Li Mazi, and was surprised to see him smoking a cigarette and chatting with the burly Northeastern man. They looked like they got along pretty well.


    Little Brother Zhang, youre back. Let me introduce my new friend to you, called Li Mazi.


    The Northeastern man sniggered, I had eyes, but I failed to see Mount Tai. Mr. Li here has told me about your business. Please forgive me if I identally offended you.


    He told us that he owned a trading business but didnt have much luck in his endeavors. He hoped that we could get him an otherworldly item that could change his fortune. I gave him my business card and asked him toe to my shop at his convenience.


    On the way back home, I told Li Mazi the story. He cursed, Wheres his conscience? Thats not how you should earn your money!


    After this statement, he began to joke, I cant believe that this broken brush costs around ten million renminbi. Little Brother Zhang, do you n to see that author?


    Of course! I nodded.


    I asked Li Mazi to return to the hostel with me. Meng Dongye was too weak to be left on his own, so we had to take him to the hospital.


    Afterward, I returned to my antique shop. I closed the door and arranged a formation to cut the bond between Meng Dongye and the brush. Then, I sealed it for good.


    Since I kept the magic brush in my shop, the four writers'' souls also came with it. However, as the n of finishing their dropped novels was going well, their final wishes were granted. One after another, they left. I had to pay one hundred thousand renminbi as royalties to the substitutes. Despite this, I didnt flinch at the loss.


    Meng Dongye recovered quickly. He came to visit me, thanking me for helping him when he was controlled.


    How is your scripting along? I asked.


    Im still writing. I cant finish it as fast as before, but I can still receive a nice profit from it.


    Fifteen dayster, that famous webnovel author proactively contacted me. He hoped that I could sell him the brush and that we could negotiate the price.


    I set up an appointment with him. When I went to meet him, I took Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue with me. As he was a celebrity, we agreed to meet up secretly in a hotel.


    This author wrote masterpieces, and he was undeniably famous nation-wide. His novels received hundreds of millions of views, with several being adapted intorge-scale online games. The more money he earned, the busier he became. Every day, he was upied with socializing and shows. He soon became burnt out from his work and couldnt write anymore.


    Except for Jiang Yan has exhausted his talent, I couldnt find any idiom that matched his situation well.


    I hope that you will sell the magic brush to me.


    I asked him, Did you know that the otherworldly merchant who promised to sell this brush to you killed four other writers to achieve his goal?


    Did that really happen? Im sorry. I didnt know that. The author had a regretful look on his face when he heard the news.


    Those authors didnt have a reputation like yours, but they were very hard-working! They also had big dreams, but this brush killed them. As long as you get this brush, you will use their talent to write your new novels and enjoy your readers praise. Im sorry, but I cant sell it to you. Money is valuable, but talent is priceless. What you work for is what you get. One day, when your time is over, you will have to face reality


    The other party frowned. I can tell that you want to raise the price. Tell me, how much do you want?


    I sneered and put on the toughest act Ive ever shown. With a crisp crack, I broke the magic brush into two pieces, throwing them onto the table in front of him. Li Mazi dropped his jaw in shock.


    I wiped my hands together. This brush shouldnt exist!


    The other party was so enraged that his face turned purple. You dont know anything, but youre so arrogant! Do you know the feeling of having needles pricking your back while you sit in front of yourputer for the whole night, unable to type a word? Do you know how heart-breaking it is when your readers urge you to upload new chapters and curse you for beingte? Do you really think that I want people to gossip that my prime time is over?!


    Saying this, he clutched his head and started crying.


    In my eyes, this was karma. I checked the authors Weibo beforeing to the meeting. Every day, he showed off hisvish life. Opened a one-million-renminbi wine or bought a ten-million-renminbi desk. He had sunk himself in mundane pleasure and ignored reality. Ideas and inspiration would have toe from daily life, and a writer who locked himself in his ivory tower would be drained of all inspiration in no time. That year, although Jiang Yan had a smooth career and many remarkable pieces of literature, he had exhausted his talent when he reached the peak.


    No matter how good or bad his life was, a writer should never forget his original intent. Only with this could he acquire unending inspiration.


    After we left the hotel, Li Mazi cursed me, Why did you break that brush? It was worth ten million renminbi! If you got paid in cash, that pile would have been taller than you! Lately, youve be so noble that youve gone crazy!


    Haha, no. Im not that noble.


    I sniggered and withdrew the intact magic brush that was hidden in my pocket.


    I wasnt dumb. The brush I just broke was just a replica. I did that to kill the authors hope. I would keep this brush until I found the most suitable buyer.


    Though,st night, I conducted a little experiment with the brush. The effects were extraordinary, and I was able to write a terrific love letter for Yin Xinyue.


    I decided to give her the letter, and she had tears in her eyes while reading it. Brother Zhang, I cant believe that you can write such a heart-touching love letter. Im so touched.


    Actually, when I was young, I dreamed of bing a writer, but I didnt have the talent. If you are so moved by my letter, would you want to kiss me? I said shamelessly.


    Yin Xinyue craned her neck forward and pecked my cheek. Seeing this, Li Mazi screamed, Hey, could you mind your image in a public area?


    If you dont like it, you can leave!


    All right, all right. Im going home to see my wife. You guys, enjoy! Li Mazi left in a rage.


    Yin Xinyue pulled my arms. Honey, this case is done. Do you want to travel with me to rx for a while?


    I cant. I told my old ssmate that I would tell him what Ive been through these past few years. My tales should provide him with some creative material.


    Okay, if he writes such a book, I will be his first reader! Yin Xinyue was excited.

 Chapter 426: The Mad Backpacker

    Chapter 426: The Mad Backpacker


    For the past few days, I was busy telling my old ssmate about my otherworldly item trades in recent years.


    When we first started, we just had very long phone calls, but soon, my friends curiosity grew stronger, and he couldnt wait. He came to my shop, traveling thousands of miles. Every day, aside from eating and sleeping, he would sit and listen to my stories. Id talk so much that my mouth almost dried up.


    Hey dude, the things youve encountered are anomalies that have really challenged my worldview. Its freaking awesome and mysterious! If I write your stories into a novel, Im sure itll be a best-seller! I bet its going to have a great sale. I even picked the name already. This novel will be called Otherworldly Merchant!


    I just smiled, saying nothing.


    After about three days and three nights, I finally finished my story-telling sessions and sent this friend of mine to the airport. Before we parted, he made me promise him that whenever I had new stories, I must tell him.


    When I returned to my antique shop, it was around 11:00 PM. I fell fast asleep as soon as my head touched the pillow. The next morning, after washing my face, I checked my figure in the mirror, and the haggard guy I saw startled me.


    It took me a while to pull myself together. Then, I prepared to go to the market to buy a hen, a bag of wolfberries, and Northeastern ginseng. I wanted to cook chicken soup to replenish my energy.


    But before I could leave my shop, someone banged on my door.


    As I just woke up, my eyes were like those of a panda. I slowly dragged myself to the door. Whos there? We dont open during day time. If you have any business you want to do with us, pleasee again around twilight.


    Seemingly ignoring me, the person outside kept banging at my door. The noise gave me a headache.


    I was infuriated. When I opened the door, I saw a man around thirty years old with a ttop. He was wearing an Adidas tracksuit, had a shaved face, and looked exceedingly anxious. While knocking at my door, he kept looking behind him as if something was after him.


    My first reaction was:Troublees to my door!


    I gave him an assessing nce from head to toe, asking vigntly, Who are you looking for?


    Excuse me, is this the ce of a master named Zhang? He craned his neck, curiously looking into the shop.


    Why do you need to see the master named Zhang? A slight frown grew on my face.


    This guy looked sneaky. I hope the Longquan Vi didnt send him.


    My friend told me that theres a master with the name Zhang living on this antique street, and only he could save my life. I came here early today and asked around. They told me that Master Zhang lives in the antique shop at the end of this street. Thats why Im here, he said.


    Ah, it is so. Do you want to have a cup of tea inside? I asked.


    The man contemted for a while. Then, he nodded, gingerly entering my antique shop.


    While making tea, I nced at the guy and saw him sitting on a bench with a sad face. He couldnt even hold the teacup steady with his shaky hands.


    It seemed that he was scared out of his mind.


    I didnt want to deny such a poor man outright, but I sensed something suspicious when he came to my door all of a sudden.


    Contemting, I decided to call Li Mazi, asking him to be the Master named Zhang. I would be his apprentice. We needed to see what this fellow wanted first. If something were amiss, we would reject him.


    Li Mazi was still mad at me because of the magic brush event. However, as soon as he heard that we might have a new business case, he was delighted. He put on a nice suit and came to the shop. As soon as he entered, he opened his mouth, talking as if he was some immortal. Little brother, youve abruptlye to my door early in the morning. May I ask what the problem is?


    The man with a ttop was surprised and lifted his head. Li Mazis ugly face came into his eyesight. You are the Master named Zhang?


    Of course. Li Mazi deliberately checked his watch. If youve encountered any trouble or want to sell something, please hurry! Ive got a lot of things to do. Im going to the city center to collect an antique.


    I followed Li Mazis flow. Although my teacher looks strange, hes the real deal! If youve encountered something bad, you should tell him. Hell help you.


    The guy was convinced. He looked bewildered for a while, but in the end, he nodded. Okay, heres the story. Im Zhao Wuyang. Im a member of a backpacker club.


    Barbeque? Li Mazi blinked. Oh, I like that too.


    Zhao Wuyang stared at him, not quite understanding.


    Li Mazi guffawed, I love barbeque, and now, people even have a barbeque club! Did they want to make it a formal hobby?


    The corner of Zhao Wuyangs mouth twitched.


    I felt embarrassed. I wondered if I had done something bad in my previous life that resulted in my embarrassing friendship with Li Mazi in this life.


    Zhao Wuyang didnt know how to answer Li Mazi.


    Iughed, intervening, My teacher likes to joke. He thinks that jokes make people connect more easily. Please tell us your story, dont mind him.


    Zhao Wuyang worriedly nodded. Half a month ago, our club organized an outdoor trip. Including me, there were four members registered: three males and one female. The girls called Xiao Sisi; shes a trainee working at a bank. The other two men are Zhang Qinghai, a painter who likes to collect folklore materials; and the second is Xue Peng, a college student.


    I assessed Zhao Wuyang, asking curiously, May I ask what do you do?


    Zhao Wuyang answered immediately, Im a dentist. However, I really love traveling, and I take vacations every year to travel. These past years, Ive been traveling through almost the entire country. Zhang Qinghai is one of my patients, and he oftenes to me to clean his teeth. We eventually became friends, and it was him who introduced me to the backpacker club. This past trip, he was the one that chose our destination. It was a small rural vige deep in Shandong. He heard that the area hadnt been exploited yet. Since it was deep inside the mountains, it was apparently a paradise on earth.


    I nodded, indicating for him to continue his story.


    Zhao Wuyang took a sip of his tea, speaking with regret in his voice. As I only took a few vacations every year and nned to go to Bali this year, I wasnt really interested in that so-called paradise on earth. Nevertheless, Zhang Qinghai kept pestering me, so I finally had to agree. If I knew this would happen, I never would have listened to him. It was truly a nightmare.


    When he arrived at the next part of his tale, Zhao Wuyang started to shiver again. It appeared that his nightmare-like encounter had happened during his trip.


    I pricked my ears up, listening carefully.


    Zhao Wuyang continued his story, Zhang Qinghai told me that six people were joining the trip. Moreover, they were all males. I didnt really pay attention to these details at first. However, when I met them at the airport, I found that there were only four people, including Xiao Sisi. I wasnt pleased, to be honest. Zhang Qinghai exined to me that two people were suddenly busy at departure time. They couldnt make it.


    Xiao Sisi was a junior from his university, and she wanted to use thest school break to have a nice time and gain more knowledge. He couldnt reject her, so he agreed to take her with us. Xiao Sisi is a pretty girl with a sweet mouth. Moreover, as she was already there, I couldnt say anything.


    Li Mazi listened to him, smiling awkwardly. Dont you know thatscivious activities can lead to bitter consequences?


    No, Zhao Wuyang hurried to exin himself. Im several years older than her, and I didnt think of her that way. This time, our journey was very rough. At first, we took a flight to Shandong, and then the train to a tiny station Id never heard of. In the end, we had to hitchhike on a farmers tractor to reach the paradise on earth Zhang Qinghai had mentioned. It turned out that it was not a paradise on earth. It was just a poor vige by a stream! The vige was called Wuyan Vige, and it had around a dozen households. We got there by night time, and everything waspletely dark. There were no street lights, and the people there had already closed their doors. No matter how hard we called, no one opened their house to wee us.


    Wuyan Vige as in Saltless Vige? What an interesting name!


    Zhao Wuyang sighed, Wed traveled a long way just to find that paradise on earth. And yet, we arrived at a ce where even the birds wouldnt want to shit in. Although we didnt say anything, our displeasure was evident in our expressions. Only Zhang Qinghai looked happy. He knocked on a fellows door in the vige, begging them to let us stay in their house for the night. I thought people living in remote viges were all simple and friendly. However, this vige was theplete opposite. No one answered us. I felt like we were in a ghost town.


    Then, he shot me a frightened nce.


    I smiled, encouraging him. Sometimes, people living in rural areas dont like contact with outsiders. Its normal.


    No, it wasnt like that, Zhao Wuyang exined seriously. It wasnt simply because they didnt want to contact us. They actually looked hostile! It appeared as if they hated our guts so much that they wished to kill us all!

 Chapter 427: The Forbidden Area in the Mountain

    Chapter 427: The Forbidden Area in the Mountain


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. Even though they didnt wee strangers, they didnt need to loathe them, right?


    Did Zhao Wuyang exaggerate the situation?


    Li Mazi pointed at his head, signaling that the fellow in front of us had some mental problem.


    Zhao Wuyang didnt notice Li Mazis teasing. He continued talking, We struggled until midnight. We were tired and hungry. The weather in that mountainous area was too cold, so it wasnt suitable to camp outside. The girl, Xiao Sisi, almost lost consciousness. If we didnt find a ce to rest, I feared she would be sick. Xue Peng, the other male member, started to me us. I interrupted him, telling him that since we were here, there was no useining. We should take the time to find a ce for Xiao Sisi to rest.


    Since Zhao Wuyang was some sort of doctor, he disyed the kind heart of one.


    I agreed with him, nodding, So, where did you stay?


    Zhao Wuyang took a deep breath and said, In the most impoverished house of the vige. The entire ce was filled with straw, and the house looked so shabby that it could copse within the next minute. There were no electric lights or tap water in the house, although there were some candles avable. In addition, the nkets were all filthy. Despite theseckluster conditions, Zhang Qinghai was forced to beg the houses owner to be allowed to stay. The people living in the vige were all self-sufficient. They didnt need any money, and they didnt even recognize cash. In ce of money, they wanted our belongings. Zhang Qinghai had to give the old fellow his watch, a travel radio, and some daily necessities. The man then agreed to let us stay the night.


    The family consisted of an old couple living with a madwoman. The woman looked around thirty years old. She often screamed, and she had an iron chain around her neck, which held her in the house like a dog. We were taken aback since we never knew that there were people living like animals in our society.


    Zhao Wuyang was the type of person who had been sheltered ever since he was young. His current worldview was made of positive and happy encounters. He never experienced the dark side of society. That was why he couldnt ept it when he saw the woman being chained like a dog.


    Nheless, this wasnt the only case of atrocities beingmitted. In this world, there were more instances of cruelty than could possibly be counted.


    Li Mazi snorted lightly with a disdainful look on his face.


    Zhao Wuyang nced at Li Mazi, saying sadly, Master, you might think that Im a hypocrite, but I really couldnt ept it! Perhaps our faces showed our shock, but the old fellow recognized it. He told us the woman was actually his daughter. Ever since her mental illness red up, they had to chain her inside the house. His daughter was dangerous, and she often went out with a scythe, shing people. The other folks in the vige were scared and forced him to send her to the mountain where she would live her life alone, but the old fellow couldnt do that. That was why he had to adopt such a wretched and inhumane method. Although it looked cruel, he could still keep his daughter alive.


    We understood the situation when the old man exined. While his wife was cooking supper for us, I asked him about his daughter. The old man told us that when she was a little girl, she was very intelligent. People adored her. However, when she became a teenager, she went to the mountain to y with her friend. When she came back, she became crazy! The elders in the vige said that she must have seen something there and was so scared that she lost her mind. She was lucky that she came back alive. The other girl who went and yed with her in the mountain disappeared. They had no news about her until now. Her body was never found. When the incident happened, the vigers gathered together and traversed the mountain to search for her. In spite of their efforts, they found nothing. Not knowing where to search, they visited and questioned the mad girl. Aside from crying and hiding underneath the table, she didnt say anything. People eventually gave up and didnt search for the poor girl anymore.


    I figured that what the madwoman experienced and what Zhao Wuyang encountered mustve been rted. Otherwise, he wouldnt talk about the woman that much.


    I listened to him attentively.


    Zhao Wuyang continued, The living conditions in that vige werent very good. The old woman had to exert a lot of effort to cook four dishes for us, including a te of scrambled eggs. It was the best they could do. We had been hungry for the entire day and were famished. Thats why I could eat three ink-ck steamed buns in a row. Although Xiao Sisi was a picky girl, she also ate a steamed bun.


    After the meal, I checked her temperature, noticing that she had a slight fever. I asked the folks to boil us some warm water to wash Xiao Sisis face and help her cool down.


    Oh, youre very caring, arent you? Li Mazi smiled despicably. How was it? Was the girls face soft enough?


    Zhao Wuyang blushed. I cared for her as a doctor. When I take care of my patients, I dont have dirty thoughts. His clear and honest exnation raised my opinion of him by a good deal.


    Li Maziughed. Apparently, he despised Zhao Wuyang. I was afraid that Li Mazi would embarrass himself, so I shooed him away to y with myputer.


    Without Li Mazi, Zhao Wuyang felt better. He looked at Li Mazis back, asking me with uncertainty in his eyes, Is he really a master? I feel hes too strange.


    I smiled. If you want someones help, dont doubt him. If you doubt him, dont use his services. As youve entered our shop, well help you! Tell me, what did you encounter? Who told you toe here and find Master Zhang?


    Zhao Wuyang nodded and continued talking, Actually, I had traveled to many areas, and I had experienced the harsh conditions in the Northwestern regions, too. To me, that tiny vige wasnt a suitable destination for a trip. I didnt know what Zhang Qinghai was thinking and why he wanted to take us to that ce. Xue Peng and I spent a morning checking out the entire vige. We even asked the people if there were any rmended ces to visit around their vige. They all looked at us as if they were looking at a bunch of idiots, telling us that except for mountains and poor viges, there were no scenic or tourist attractions around this area. Xue Peng and I felt strange when we learned this. We went to question Zhang Qinghai. He told us that when he did his research, he saw a scenic area nearby, but now he realized that there might be something wrong with the information he got on the.


    Zhang Qinghai was an experienced backpacker. He wouldnt make such a basic mistake. I believed that he had a goal in mind when he took us here. However, since he didnt tell us, we couldn''t guess the reason. I secretly confided to Xue Peng, telling him that when Xiao Sisis fever subsided, we must leave immediately!


    Yet, the next day, Xiao Sisis situation didnt get better. It was getting worse. She had a severe fever, and she was unconscious. We had used all the fever relief pills we had brought, so I went to ask the house owner about it. He told us that there was no clinic in this vige and that we would have to cross a mountain to go to a vige with a pharmacy. Zhang Qinghai decided to take us to buy the medicines and asked the host family to take care of Xiao Sisi.


    I didnt know if it was the way Zhao Wuyang talked or if he did it deliberately, but I felt that his words were somewhat strange.


    Zhao Wuyang then continued the story.


    He thought it was odd. They just needed to buy some medicine. Why would he take all of them to the mountain? At least, one of them had to stay to take care of Xiao Sisi, right? Zhang Qinghai exined that it would be better if the three of them went together in case there was an incident. Xiao Sisi staying in the old fellows house was safe and beneficial for her. To earn the old mans favor, Zhang Qinghai even gave him his camp shlight.


    Zhao Wuyang and Xue Peng didnt have any other option. They had to apany Zhang Qinghai to the mountain. When Zhao Wuyang arrived at this part, he had to drink some tea to soothe his throat.


    The old man gave us a map on which he had circled a ce, telling us that it was the forbidden area of the vige and that we shouldnt enter that area. We should buy the medicine and return immediately. Zhang Qinghai agreed happily, but when we climbed the mountain, he deliberately took Xue Peng and me to that forbidden area. The ce was dark, and it was freaking cold. The trees there were taller than the other areas, hiding all the sunlight. When the wind blew, the leaves would rattle, sending shivers down my spine. I felt scared and asked Zhang Qinghai to hurry and buy medicine first. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. We shouldnt go to their forbidden ce.


    And Zhang Qinghai didnt listen to your suggestion I smiled, chiming in.


    Zhao Wuyang couldnt smile. He nodded stiffly, Zhang Qinghai said that we should explore the ce as we were already there. It could even be the paradise they mentioned. He suggested that perhaps the forbidden area had some secret that the vige folks didnt want us to know. Xue Peng couldnt resist the temptation, so he agreed with him.


    You also followed them? I looked at him.

 Chapter 428: The Skinning Incident

    Chapter 428: The Skinning Incident


    Zhao Wuyang nodded. Im not that bold. As they walked away, I realized that I was too afraid to stay by myself. Thats why I followed them.


    Zhao Wuyang lowered his head, looking aggrieved.


    I didnt really know how tofort him. I thought for a second before telling him sheepishly, Your tea is cold. Let me pour more hot tea for you.


    Zhao Wuyang thanked me and continued his story. Shortly after we entered the forbidden area, we saw an abandoned tomb. It was sorge that it would take four or five people to join hands to encircle it. The entire tomb was covered in wild grass. I didnt know how long the tomb had been there since the words on the tombstone were weathered away.


    You guys sure were bold! You deliberately trespassed into the forbidden area, evenining that the tombstones words werent clear enough!


    Zhao Wuyang recalled the scene at the time, his face showing his growing restlessness and anxiety. Even though Im a doctor, Im afraid of dead people. Thats why I chose to be a dentist. When I saw the tomb, I didnt dare move forward. I asked Zhang Qinghai what his goal was. In response, he said that he was currently working on a series of paintings centered around tomb-robbing. He even visited some old tomb robbers to gathermaterial, but they either didnt open their door or just provided some useless info. Zhang Qinghai felt that they didnt want to talk to him, so he decided to rob a tomb himself to gain the experience. He thought he could draw with much more realism if he had such an experience.


    Its not realistic! Its insane!


    Zhao Wuyang told me that both Zhang Qinghai and Xue Peng looked excited at the time. They even discussed how they would share their spoils. Moreover, it seemed that Zhang Qinghai already had everything nned because he proceeded to take out two entrenching shovels.


    Shovel in hand, the two began to dig the tomb up. Zhao Wuyang was terrified, but he didnt have the guts to leave without them. With nothing else to do, he stood and watched them at a distance. They continued digging throughout the night, and it was dawn when Zhao Wuyang heard them screaming in surprise.


    They opened the coffin? As the story arrived at its climax, my voice grew more serious.


    Zhao Wuyang nodded. They did. Zhang Qinghai had once heard a strange theory that required cing a lit candle in front of a coffin when it was opened. If the me extinguishes, they can''t touch the items in the grave. He had stolen a candle from the old folks house before we left. He lit it, and Xue Peng helped him pry the coffin open.


    What was inside? I asked.


    Zhao Wuyang shook his head. I dont know. When they opened the coffin, I was standing far away. I didnt have the courage to go over to watch, but I heard them saying something about striking gold. Zhang Qinghai is an interesting man. I thought that they would start fighting after they saw the loot and not share the items equally. However, he gave the majority of the share to Xue Peng, taking only a mirror. Afterward, Xue Peng secretly told me that the mirror was not made of gold or silver. It couldve been made of bronze since there were dabs of patina here and there, so it wasnt very valuable. When he told me that, he had a smug smile. Apparently, he thought that Zhang Qinghai was a fool. However, Im sure that Zhang Qinghai is an extraordinarily cunning guy. Based on his face, I feared that we were tricked into going with him to take that mirror!


    A mirror?Is this item rted to our case this time?


    I caught this vital clue.


    Zhao Wuyang continued, At that time, I thought that Zhang Qinghai was incredibly suspicious. When we got back to the vige with the medicine, I hated that I couldnt leave immediately. The old fellow asked us about the trip, but Zhang Qinghai didnt say a word about us trespassing into their forbidden area, and he had hidden all the goods away. After taking the medicine, Xiao Sisi got better. Due to her recovery, Zhang Qinghai suggested that we should leave the next day. I, of course, agreed with him and began to prepare my belongings. While I was packing up, I found something underneath Xiao Sisis pillow


    What was it? I asked.


    A pill, Zhao Wuyang said slowly. It was the pill he gave her when she had a fever. I was carrying some doubts at the time, so I discreetly hid it away. On the way home, since I was still skeptical, I purposely kept my distance from Zhang Qinghai. He didnt care about me. Rather, he was talking to Xue Peng and Xiao Sisi the entire time with a happy face. He even showed them the mysterious mirror.


    It seemed that the mirror was important and yed arge role in Zhao Wuyangs story. Within just a few short moments, he had mentioned the mirror around ten times.


    Zhao Wuyang said, After I returned to the hospital, I asked a colleague working in the hospitalsboratory to analyze the pill that I found. Guess what I got.


    Was it poison? I adopted a look of disbelief.


    Zhao Wuyang nodded. The pill contained ingredients normally used in sleeping pills and botulinum toxin. This toxin can make people have a high and unceasing fever. Zhang Qinghai was the one that gave Xiao Sisi those pills. So, it wasnt coincidental that Xiao Sisis fever hadnt subsided. It was all part of Zhang Qinghais n. The more I thought about it, the more wronged I felt. I had inadvertently been dragged into his n.


    If the trip to the mountain was all a scheme of Zhang Qinghai''s, what was his purpose?Just for that mirror?


    I was puzzled.


    Zhao Wuyang suddenly lifted his head, looking me in the eyes. Xue Pengs the sort of man that throws money away by the handful. Perhaps he confided this habit to Zhang Qinghai. Thats why Zhang Qinghai made use of his shortage of money to recruit him for this trip. He wanted to have an assistant to help him unearth the tomb.


    I looked at Zhao Wuyang. If that was his reason to bring Xue Peng, why did Zhang Qinghai want to have you on this trip?


    Because Im a doctor, Zhao Wuyang responded with confidence. He needed me to y my part in his scheme with Xiao Sisis sickness. He knew me well and understood that I was softhearted.


    I nodded. And what happened afterward? You didnte to this shop to find Master Zhang just to investigate Zhang Qinghai, correct? Because if not, you would be better off finding a private detective.


    No, no, no! Zhao Wuyang waved his hands rapidly. The incident just started from there! You havent heard the news, right? Currently, in Wuhan, there are two skinning cases. The two victims were kidnapped, and they had their faces skinned while still alive.


    Before he could finish, I intervened, Did the two victims happen to be Zhang Qinghai and Xue Peng?


    Zhao Wuyang shook his head. Xue Pengs one of the victims, but the other isnt Zhang Qinghai. Its Xiao Sisi.


    Xiao Sisi? I was bewildered.


    In theory, if the resentful soul of the tombs owner wanted to take revenge through the otherworldly item, it should attack the ones that pried the coffin open. At the time, Xiao Sisi had a fever, and she was staying in the vige. She didnt join the tomb-robbing operation. Why was she one of the victims?


    I met Zhao Wuyangs gaze. Are you sure?


    Of course. Zhao Wuyangs face paled. Would I dare to tell you such a thing if I didnt confirm the information? The two of them are in the hospital where I work. All of the staff know about their cases. However, since the crime is so violent and suspicious, the police have asked us to keep it a secret until they solve the case. Thats why the news hasnt spread yet.


    Xiao Sisi, Xiao Sisi


    I read her name twice. How was this rted to her?


    I pondered for a moment before asking, Does Zhang Qinghai know of this? Did you contact him when you learned who the victims were?


    I havent gotten to talk to him since we came back from Wuyan Vige. Its as if Zhang Qinghai has evaporated from this world; I cant contact him.


    When Zhao Wuyang came to this part, his eyes sparkled with hatred. After learning of this incident, the first thing I did was to call him, but the line never went through. Ive gone to his house twice and knocked on his door, but there was no response. I have no idea where that stealthy man has gone with the damn mirror. You tell me, what is his end goal? There were more valuable items in that tomb than the mirror. He didnt want them. He just wanted the mirror...


    Mirror


    The bronze mirror


    My eyes turned brighter, and I grabbed Zhao Wuyang. Youve said that on the way back from Wuyan Vige, Zhang Qinghai showed Xiao Sisi and Xue Peng the mirror, right?


    Zhao Wuyang nodded.


    Did the two of them look at their reflections in the mirror?


    Of course, they did. Zhang Wuyang said before he dropped his jaw in shock. He turned to look at me. You mean


    Sure enough, it seemed that the skinning case this time was rted to that mirror.


    Since Xiao Sisi and Xue Peng had looked at their reflections, their facial skin was cruelly peeled off.


    If this was what caused it, since Zhang Qinghai was the first one to look in the mirror, he could be doomed already.


    However, I wasnt sure if he knew of the mirrors power beforehand. Did he bring those people to Wuyan Vige just to get the mirror?


    Moreover, through what channel did hee to know about the existence of that mirror?

 Chapter 429: Zhang Qinghais Death

    Chapter 429: Zhang Qinghai''s Death


    I contemted my options, weighing the pros and cons of each choice. In the end, I decided to find Zhang Qinghai first!


    Listening to my suggestion, Zhao Wuyang hesitated. Ive contacted him many times, but theres no trace of him.


    Your method was ineffective; lets see if mine works! I opened the drawer and took out a pen and a small paper, asking Zhao Wuyang to write down Zhang Qinghais address for me.


    Zhao Wuyang sounded resolute as he said, I want to go with you guys.


    It was rare that he showed such bravery, so I didnt reject him.


    Li Mazi was watching sister Aoi Sora on theputer while Zhao Wuyang and I were speaking. I called him, and the three of us hurriedly departed.


    Zhang Qinghai stayed in an area on the 4th Ring Road of Wuhan. The neighborhood was in the process of getting demolished when we arrived. Due to this, the surroundings were filled with the roars of engines and vehicles.


    Li Mazi scanned the area, whispering in my ear, Little Brother Zhang, this is quite a dangerous ce to be. There are many opportunities to kill someone or steal from them. Lets stay alert. Perhaps this guys a spy from the Longquan Vi.


    I shot him a nce. Were in broad daylight, and were living in a society withws. Anybody who kills or steals in these conditions doesnt want his life anymore. Besides, I have you to guard me, dont I?


    Li Mazi was still worried. We must keep our guard up against the Longquan Vi.


    I smiled, shaking my head. You have the brain of a pig, and youre reminding me of this! If Zhao Wuyang was from the Longquan Vi, how could he not know who Zhang Jiulin truly is?


    Li Mazi thought that this was reasonable, so he stopped talking.


    The residential area where Zhang Qinghai lived was made up of apartment buildings that were developedst year. There werent many families living here, and the sections around the apartments hadnt been nned yet. The path had a few bumps here and there. It was a little challenging to find his unit, but Zhang Wuyang eventually stopped and told us, This is it.


    We took the elevator to the fourteenth floor. Zhao Wuyang pointed at the door of an apartment. Thats the one.


    He went forward and knocked on the door. Yet, after waiting for quite a long time, no one answered. Zhao Wuyang sighed. See, its the same thing as before. Ist came here a few days ago. Theres no one inside.


    How many times have you been here? I asked him curiously.


    One time. Three days ago, after learning of Xue Peng and Xiao Sisi, I asked for a day off and came here to find Zhang Qinghai, answered Zhao Wuyang.


    Did Zhang Qinghai also get the news and ran away in fright?


    However, he wasnt the one who skinned the victims. Why should he need to flee?


    I shot Li Mazi a nce. Master, its your turn.


    Li Mazi looked at me dumbly. What?


    Open the door!


    Li Mazis face changed. Little Brother Zhang, who do you think I am? Im a righteous businessman. I cant just go around picking locks!


    Dont talk nonsense. Open the door now. If you continue to babble, Ill chop you up. I stared at him maliciously.


    Little Brother Zhang,tely, youve been too cruel to me. You keep talking about hitting and killing me, Li Mazi mumbled as he walked forward.


    He took out a ring-shaped needle from his clothes and started to fiddle with the lock on the door. After a moment, the door opened with a short click from the lock.


    Zhao Wuyang was still watching us dumbly when Li Mazi pushed the door open.


    As soon as the door sprung open, a pungent stench hit our faces. Li Mazi and I immediately pinched our noses, but as Zhao Wuyang was still in a daze, he wasnt so lucky; he had already taken in two breaths. He grabbed the anti-theft door, vomiting.


    Li Mazi took a slight sniff. He was startled and turned to look at me.


    This stench was familiar to Li Mazi and me. It was the smell of a dposing body!


    It seemed Zhang Qinghai was gone.


    I ordered Li Mazi with a look. I would go in first, and Li Mazi would be my backup. Carefully, we entered Zhang Qinghais apartment.


    It was a new apartment with simrly new appliances; it had two bedrooms and a living room. There was only one gray sofa in the living room, which made the area look empty. The two bedrooms were transformed into one bedroom and one study room.


    The study room had all kinds of books. The curtain was half-closed, allowing a little light into the room.


    Crumpled papers and trash were scattered across the floor. A twisted corpseid in front of theptop wearing dirty pajamas, the horrible smell wafting from it. This person must be Zhang Qinghai.


    I moved closer and found that Zhang Qinghais face was skinned. The wound had bled hard, leaving a puddle of blood on the desk. His face was now a mess of torn flesh, and the veins from his sockets stuck to his eyeballs. The scene looked extraordinarily terrifying.


    Although Id seen many frightful sights before, I couldnt help but take two steps backward.


    No matter what, Zhao Wuyang was a doctor. After his anxiety subsided, he recovered and asked from the door, Did he die?


    Yes, I nodded.


    Checking the corpse or the time of his death wasnt my specialty. I had to ask Zhao Wuyang toe in and take a look.


    I-I dont dare. Zhao Wuyang answered shakily.


    As Li Mazi was already annoyed and restless, he scolded him, There are two living men standing here with you, what are you afraid of? Youre a doctor, right? When you were in school, you must have seen more gruesome things than this! Hurry,e here. If you keep dawdling, we wont care what happens to you anymore. If your face gets peeled off, dont push the me on us.


    Zhao Wuyang wanted to cry but had no tears. I really dont have the courage. Im scared. Dont force me.


    Li Mazi snorted. Who''s forcing you? Anyway, are youing here or not? If youre noting, were leaving. You cant have your cake and eat it, too


    Just as I was about to intercede, Li Mazi blinked, muttering to me, This fellow is such a scaredy-cat. I have to take this chance to cure his bad habit. Otherwise, it may affect his futureter!


    Although this method was a bit cruel, I had to admit that Li Mazi was right. This trait of his would hold Zhao Wuyang back for his entire life. If Li Mazi corrected the issue, it would be a great deed.


    That was why I shut my mouth and turned aside as if I hadnt heard anything.


    Under Li Mazis continuous urging, Zhao Wuyang took small steps toward us. He craned his neck to take his first look at the corpse. Immediately, he freaked out, shrieking.


    I couldnt me him, though. Zhang Qinghais death was exceedingly frightening, especially his skinned face. The veins on his face were like a horrible spider web sticking onto his pink-red, exposed flesh.


    Iforted Zhao Wuyang. Dont be scared. Hes already dead. If you can, please check and tell us how long hes been dead. If you cant, we have to get out of here as soon as possible and report his death to the police.


    Zhao Wuyang took a deep breath, his face as white as a sheet of paper. He gritted his teeth. Im okay. I can do it.


    He avoided Zhang Qinghais face and simply checked the other parts of the body. Without proper tools, I cant tell the exact time of this death. However, Im guessing its more than one week since his death. You can see the lividity all over his body.


    All right, Li Mazi interrupted impatiently. Do you think were on some crime TV show or something? Keep it short.


    Zhao Wuyang jerked back in fright, shutting his mouth.


    Zhang Qinghai died at his desk. What was he doing right before his death?


    I studied his posture. Both of his stiff hands were held up as if he was holding something.


    I suddenly remembered the mirror in Zhao Wuyangs story.


    I got it now!


    Before Zhang Qinghai died, he was admiring the mirror. He courted his death this way.


    I hurried to rummage around the room, even searching under the desk and the bookshelf underneath. However, I didnt find the bronze mirror.


    After Zhang Qinghai died, where did the mirror go?


    It couldnt have just vanished into thin air, could it?


    Or did Zhang Qinghai lose his mind and imagine that the mirror was still in his hands? Was this the way he was positioned with both hands holding something up?


    I couldnt figure it out for the moment. Li Mazi waved at me. Little Brother Zhang, this room smells horrible. We should get out of here.


    Zhao Wuyang nodded as if he had just received some wonderful news. Yes, yes. We should leave!


    Then, supporting himself with a hand on the wall, he wobbled out of the study room.

 Chapter 430: Youre Next!

    Chapter 430: You''re Next!


    Li Mazi and I also left Zhang Qinghais apartment, closing the door carefully. Should we call the police? Its not right to leave his dead body in his apartment.


    Li Mazi shot me a nce. Are you addicted to putting your nose in other peoples business? Why are you worrying about him? He wasnt born from a rock; he must have friends and family. When they cant contact him, undoubtedly some will be worried. If you call the police and they question us, what should we tell them? Dont forget that it was me who just picked this lock so we could enter the apartment. Do you want to harm your friends just to uphold justice? You want to send me to jail?


    I just said two sentence, andhe taught me a lessonabout the great truth.


    I sighed and decided to leave it at that.


    After we left Zhang Qinghais apartment building, Zhao Wuyang sat on the curb for half an hour. He vomited twice, his face pale. He didnt look well at all.


    He feebly looked at me, gasping for breath. Zhang Qinghai is gone. Moreover, if we check the time, he died before Xue Peng and Xiao Sisis incidents. Does this mean that all people who went to Wuyan Vige are going to encounter fatal incidents? Am I next?


    I shook my head. It shouldnt have anything to do with you.


    Why not? Zhao Wuyang asked, distraught. I also went to Wuyan Vige I shouldnt have gone with them! I shouldnt have! After saying this, he pped himself.


    He was lucky that the fright from before caused him to have little strength. The p was like a breeze, barely hurting him.


    Li Mazi burst outughing. You want to harm yourself? Let me do it. I wont even ask for anything in return. Free of charge!


    Li Mazi was still in the mood to joke.


    I kicked him aside, squatting and trying tofort Zhao Wuyang. Its not asplicated as you think. Did you not see the pattern? Zhang Qinghai, Xue Peng, and Xiao Sisi got in trouble because they looked into that mirror.


    Mirror Zhao Wuyangs dispirited eyes finally had a sparkle of light.


    I nodded. Since you didnt look into the mirror, nothing will happen to you. Otherwise, how could you be safe and talking to us right now?


    Zhao Wuyang exhaled in relief. He grabbed my arm as if he had just grasped the straw that could save his life. You arent fooling me, right?


    I beamed at him. You dont trust me?


    I do, I do! Zhao Wuyang repeatedly nodded, his eyes red. I trust you, thats why I told you everything. I always trusted you


    Li Mazi snorted. Hey, just a friendly reminder. Im the master.


    I ignored him, patting Zhao Wuyangs shoulder. So, theres no need to worry that youll be the next victim.


    Zhao Wuyang nodded repeatedly. I can ease my worried mind now. This whole thing should end here, shouldnt it? I wont travel again, ever. For the rest of my life, I will stay home. I must keep trouble as far as possible.


    A serious expression grew on my face as I looked at him.


    Zhao Wuyang grew pale. Whats wrong? Will something happen?


    When he said this, his voice shivered, his face tense and anxious.


    I looked around Zhang Qinghais house, but I couldnt find the mirror. I didnt want to hide anything from Zhao Wuyang. This mirrors too dangerous. If someone gets a hold of it, there will be more deaths. We have to find the mirror first.


    Find the mirror? Zhao Wuyang looked at me, not quite understanding. Where do we find it?


    We must go to the ce where it originated! I kept quiet for a long time before responding.


    Zhao Wuyang looked at me, his eyes saying:Youve lost your mind!


    I analyzed the situation calmly. If that mirror gets in someones hand, whoever looks at it will have their facial skin peeled off. This mirror brings dangers far worse than your imagination.


    Zhao Wuyang pursed his lips. What does it matter to me?


    Iwas amused by his reply. Although Zhang Qinghai started all of this, you are one of the participants. Even if you arent targeted by the mirror, the people who had their faces skinned will have a lot of grudges against you.


    Zhao Wuyang became frightened again, and his face changed immediately. He looked at me, tensing up. What should I do now? How do I get rid of their grudges? I didnt do anything. I-Im innocent.


    Li Mazi, who was smoking far away from us, suddenly chimed in, Oh, well, the aplices always say theyre innocent.


    Im not an aplice. Zhao Wuyang almost went crazy. I was standing back at the time. I didnt join their robbing operation!


    It doesnt matter now. We must find a solution to end this case! The best solution is that you take us to Wuyan Vige, I said.


    Zhao Wuyang was panic-stricken. We have to go back there one more time? The mirror was taken away. Why do we have to go back there? What about Searching Zhang Qinghais apartment one more time? Perhaps we missed something. Maybe he had a hidden room or a chamber in his apartment.


    Zhao Wuyang was flustered.


    After Li Mazi finished his cigarette, he walked toward us. You think were shooting a movie? Hidden chamber? Did you lose your mind?


    Zhao Wuyangs nerves were now tense strings. I was afraid that he would crack within the next moment. I hurried to push Li Mazi aside, talking to Zhao Wuyang. Didnt you say that you trust me? Theres no need to be afraid. Ive been through this type of situation many times, and they were all more dangerous than this. Dont worry. Im sure youll be safe and sound.


    Whether it was my firm and resolute voice or my bright protagonist halo that caused it, Zhao Wuyangs worried nerves were calmed after listening to me.


    I decided to double down. Moreover, you said earlier that youre rather weak-willed. Do you want to live like that for the rest of your life? You must have your own principles and stick to them. You may find that youve changed once were done with this case.


    Zhao Wuyang thought for a second then nodded. I trust you. Ill take you there.


    I checked the flight tickets using my phone. The earliest flight was tomorrow morning, so we couldnt depart today. Either way, there were things that couldn''t be rushed. I told Zhao Wuyang, Well gather tomorrow at the airport.


    Before I finished speaking, Zhao Wuyang stammered, intervening, Hey Master, c-can I stay in your shop tonight?


    Eh? I dropped my jaw, gawking at him.


    Im not scared. Im just worried. Zhao Wuyang tried to find an excuse.


    Li Mazi chimed in at the right minute. All right, no need to exin. We know youre scared. Although youre a big man, youre not even as brave as a woman.


    Actually, even when considering my own experience, Zhang Qinghais death was terrifying. Since Zhao Wuyang was a little weak-minded, I guessed he would get nightmares all night.


    Since I decided to help him, I decided to see it through to the end. Who made me such a kind man?


    I nodded. Okay, but you have to cook me dinner.


    Zhao Wuyang agreed immediately.


    Usually, the only other person who ate at my ce was Li Mazi. And now, I had another visitor. The rice container in my house would have a protest soon.


    Zhao Wuyang spent the night in my shop. The next day, we got on the airne early in the morning, flying directly to Shandong. With Zhao Wuyangs guidance, we took a train, a bus, and then got off at a rural mountainous area where even birds wouldnt want to shit in.


    We looked around, seeing the surroundings devoid of all human life.


    Li Mazi was shocked, pointing at Zhao Wuyang. Hey, are you some sort of human trafficker? Be honest, your goal was to bring two handsome, young men to this remote area and sell them to the old widows here, right?


    Zhao Wuyang was worriedly looking around, not even noticing Li Mazis teasing.


    I patted Li Mazis shoulder. Do you really think some widow would want to admire that ugly face of yours?


    Then, Li Mazi and I began to exchange jabs at each other. From a far distance, we saw a tractor. Zhao Wuyang hurried to stop it, telling the driver that we were going to Wuyan Vige. If he was going in that direction, we wanted to hitch a ride.


    The tractor was full of straw. The driver was afraid of trouble, so he didnt want to give us a ride. Zhao Wuyang hastily gave him his watch. Please take us there. Here, take this.


    The driver agreed happily.


    After two hours on the bumpy road, the driver pulled his tractor to a halt by the road. You guys, go that way! I dont live in that vige, so I wont approach the ce further.


    Li Mazi wasnt pleased. Hey, man, you arent very honorable. Didnt you say that you would take us to Wuyan Vige? Why did you drop us here?


    The drivers tone was firm. You voluntarily gave me the watch. I didnt rob you or anything. Get off my tractor and go there yourself. No matter what, Im not going to Wuyan Vige.


    It sounds like theres something pretty odd in that Wuyan Vige!


    I hurried to shove the watch back into the drivers hand. A deal is a deal. Brother, I know youre a nice guy, and unless there was a reason, you wouldnt drop us here, right?


    After I said this, the drivers face changed into a warm smile. Little brother, you know how to bargain.


    I deliberately took a pack of cigarettes out of Li Mazis pocket and handed it to the driver.


    The driver immediately lit up a cigarette. Then, he didnt leave but instead spoke to me as if we were friends. Little brother, from the way you dress, you dont look like youre from Wuyan Vige. Why do you want to go there?


    I smiled. We found out about Wuyan Vige from the Inte. They say this vige is like a paradise on earth. It has beautiful sights that people should visit at least once in their lives. Since we have some time off, we decided to go there to widen our knowledge.


    When I said that, the drivers face grew disdainful. Nonsense! Birds dont even want to shit in Wuyan Vige. It has no beautiful sights at all. Youve been deceived. Little brother, I think youre a good and kind person. Im going to be honest right now. That Wuyan Vige is really strange!

 Chapter 431: Zhong Wuyan

    Chapter 431: Zhong Wuyan


    I pretended to be afraid. Brother, dont scare me!


    While we were talking, Li Mazi took out a pack of cigarettes from his bag and gave it to the driver. Please tell us more about it, I dont want my little brother to suffer.


    The driver received the cigarettes whileughing heartily. Brother, youd better listen to me. You should go back to where you came from. This Wuyan Vige is not a ce you should be visiting. Youll sense a murderous aura everywhere.


    Murderous aura? I exchanged looks with Li Mazi.


    The driver nodded in confirmation. Yes. Do you know where the name Wuyanes from?


    I shook my head.


    He sniggered. Have you ever heard about Zhong Wuyan? The woman that topped the list of Chinas Top Four Ugliest Women. That Wuyan Vige was actually her hometown. Rumor has it that her final resting ce is right there


    I opened my eyes wide in shock after listening to what the driver had revealed.


    Did Zhang Qinghai unearth the tomb of Zhong Wuyan, the famous historical figure?


    The driver puffed his cigarette as he continued, That Wuyan Vige has a forbidden area. People say its where Zhong Wuyans tomb is located.


    ZhaoWuyangsface turned pale; it almost looked as if he had fallen sick.


    The driver continued, In earlier years, Wuyan Vige was a rich and lively vige. It was actually the biggest vige in the area. However, after the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, the tomb-robbing industry in Shandong was on the rise. Some bold tomb robbers came here and unearthed Zhong Wuyans tomb. After that, paranormal activities started to happen in the vige In particr, many girls were attacked and killed. The vigers were scared, so they began to move away. In a few years, the once prosperous vige had been almost abandoned.


    The people who decided to stay took it upon themselves to rebuild Zhong Wuyans tomb and set up the forbidden area. The situation has been getting better ever since. Then, the driver told us wholeheartedly, Youre outsiders visiting this ce. You dont know how horrible Wuyan Vige is. It would be for the best if you left while its still bright. This ce is not for sightseeing. Its evil.


    Once he finished talking, he held the cigarette pack underneath his arm while humming some song and drove away in his tractor.


    Zhao Wuyang kept shivering even after the driver hadpletely disappeared from our view. How could this be? In which period did Zhong Wuyan live? How could her tomb survive to this day?


    I carefully went through all my recollections about her life.


    Zhong Wuyan had been born during the Spring and Autumn Period. She was said to be an extraordinarily ugly woman. Not only did she have a red birthmark on her face, but her hair was also sparse, her nose big, and her lips looked like a pair of sausages. In short, people chose to stay clear whenever they saw her.


    The ancient books mentioned that she had not married until she was forty years old; it could be taken as an indication of how ugly she was. However, Zhong Wuyan had an outstanding talent when it came to governing the country. In fact, Zhong Wuyan had gone to the pce when the State of Qi was going through troubling times and offered her solutions to King Xuan of Qi. The king appreciated her a lot, to the point that he decided to make her his queen.


    However, King Xuan of Qi had married her only because of her talent; they never slept on the same bed.


    No matter how outstanding Zhong Wuyan was, she was still a woman. Although she was living in the harem with her queen status, she never once received love from her husband. Every day, as she put on her makeup and looked at herself in the mirror, she would remember her parents with deep hatred for giving her such a hideous appearance! If she had had a mesmerizing face, wouldnt she have been able to keep King Xuan of Qi for herself?


    My guess was that the mirror had absorbed a great deal of Zhong Wuyans resentful energy. That was why it would peel off peoples faces to vent out the anger. After discovering this important piece of information, I decided to go to Wuyan Vige to investigate before it got darker.


    Li Mazi panicked when I told them about my ns. Little Brother Zhang, didnt you listen to the driver? That Wuyan Vige is quite strange. Why go there?


    I answeredzily, Because I dont have any other interest but to collect strange items. The more ominous they are, the more excited I get.


    I didnt know if my answer had encouraged them, but they hurried to catch up with me.


    Although our pace wasnt slow, the sky had bepletely dark when we arrived at Wuyan Vige.


    It was simr to what Zhao Wuyang had told us. The mountainous vige was scarily quiet at night time. Except for some random dogs barking, the ce was as still as a cemetery.


    Since it was his second visit, Zhao Wuyang easily took us to the house he had stayed in the previous time. The old owner didnt greet Zhao Wuyang as people normally would, smiling when they saw an acquaintance. His voice grew vignt instead. Why did youe back?


    Zhao Wuyang didnt know how to answer.


    I quickly stepped forward. Good evening, sir. Im Zhao Wuyangs friend. He took a lot of beautiful photos on hisst visit. Im very interested in photography, and this ce looks magnificent to me, so I begged him to bring me here.


    The old fellow assessed me from top to bottom, and his face became friendlier. What do you want?


    Zhao Wuyang said, Sir, we dont have a ce to stay. We would like to stay in your house for a few days. While he spoke, he showed the old man a bag of gifts he had prepared.


    The old fellow checked the bag carefully, looking satisfied. He nodded and said, Come in!


    The courtyard waspletely dark as we followed him inside. Momentster, as we were about to reach the mud-walled house, we heard the naive giggling of someone standing in the dark. Although I was unable to see anybody, I knew it was the madwoman Zhao Wuyang had mentioned.


    The old man ushered us to the mud-walled room. He asked in a low voice, Have you eaten yet?


    I hurried to take out some bread and sausages from my bag. We came prepared. Theres no need for you to trouble yourself. Please go ahead and have some rest


    The old man had already left with his kerosenemp before I finished speaking.


    I felt a little awkward as I looked back at Li Mazi. I caught the mirth in his eyes.


    What are youughing at?


    Little brother, you do have moments when you look like a fool.


    His satisfied face annoyed me, so I said to Zhao Wuyang, Li Mazi doesnt feel like eating. Well split the food between us two!


    We ate the bread and sausages, then we went to bed early that night.


    I was woken up by the noise outside the next morning. I pushed Li Mazi, who was sleeping like a dead pig. Wake up. Go out and take a look, somethings happening!


    Once we got out of the room, we saw many people standing in the old fellows courtyard. All of them looked worried.


    A man asked, When did Old Wus daughter disappear?


    She was still inside the house when they went to bed. However, the girl was nowhere to be seen this morning


    Old Wu worked hard on his field yesterday. He slept deep enough that he didnt hear anything. How could that girl disappear into thin air?


    The vigers were discussing boisterously.

 Chapter 432: The Weakness of Human Beings

    Chapter 432: The Weakness of Human Beings


    It seemed someone had gone missing.


    Our host hurried to put his clothes and shoes on as he called out, Go, look around for her. Old Wus daughter cant have gone far!


    He saw me right then. He moved closer to warn me, Kid, theres some problem in our vige. You guys should stay in the house. Dont run around.


    What happened? Do you need our help? I kindly suggested. Actually, I wanted to go with them to check the routes around the vige and see if I could catch some clues.


    Uncle Wang immediately rejected the idea. No need. Its a private matter of our vige. We dont want outsiders to get involved! He looked at me with unveiled hostility.


    I suddenly remembered what Zhao Wuyang had told us. The vigers had been rather hostile during their previous visit to Wuyan Vige. Zhao Wuyang went as far as saying that the vigers hated them.


    The old man soon went out with the other vigers; we were asked to stay in the courtyard. Before he left, he deliberately called his wife aside and muttered something. Then, his wife made an excuse about needing to air dry chilies to sit in the yard and watch our every move.


    I got the opportunity to see the madwoman.


    She was sitting by the threshold, her eyes nkly staring at the void. She was wearing dirty clothes, and a long iron chain had one end locked around her neck and the other end fixed to the doorframe. The madwoman seemed to have be livelier as soon as she saw strangers. She shed us a silly smile.


    Li Mazi nudged me. Little brother, youre quite the charmer! Youre weed everywhere you go! See? Shes smiling at you. You can stay here as the familys new son-inw. Perhaps you can inherit a piece ofndter. As for me Li Mazi took out a pocket mirror and carefully checked his image. The value of my beauty isnt as high as yours. Its unwise for me to stay here. I should go back home. Dont worry about your little shop. Just leave it to me


    The more he talked, the more arrogant he became. He swung his arms in delight, inadvertently catching the sunlights reflection with the mirror; it produced a sh that happened to shine on the madwomans face.


    The madwoman was stimted by this. She screamed in an odd manner due to the extreme fear. She quickly crawled back into the room, not daring to go out again.


    The old woman was startled. She rushed to the door and looked around. Why did you cry? Come out,e out here! Why are you hiding under the table?


    After scolding the girl, the old woman returned to the yard and continued to dry her chilies. She didnt really mind the reaction of the panic-stricken girl; it seemed she was used to it.


    Li Mazi was bewildered. He asked me since he didnt have a clue, What happened to the madwoman? I didnt do a thing. She scared me.


    Zhao Wuyang exined, The world of patients with mental illnesses is really different from the one where normal people live. We cant treat them or understand them with normal means.


    I stared absentmindedly at the pocket mirror in Li Mazis hand.


    She had somehow been stimted by that mirror. Did it remind her of something? Perhaps the girl had gone crazy because of that strange bronze mirror.


    The old fellow returned from the search mission at around noon time. He looked truly worn out. His wife walked over to wee him. How was it? Did you find the girl?


    The old fellow simply responded with a nod. He didnt want to talk at the moment.


    His wife was so worried that she didnt catch the hint. She was thrilled as she asked, You guys found her! Where was she?


    The old fellow frowned, sending a nce to the mud-walled room where we were staying. Why dont we talk inside the house?


    Then, they rushed to their room and closed the door.


    They were very cautious and treated us as if we were a band of thieves.


    <em>Well, even if you guys dont want to talk, theres bound to be a pair of loose lips somewhere...</em>


    I took out two packs of cigarettes from Li Mazis backpack.


    Little Brother Zhang, you want to use my cigarettes to earn favors again? What should I smoke when you give all my cigarettes away?


    I smiled at him. Puff the air then.


    The old fellow didnt stop us when he heard that we wanted to go out, possibly because they had found the missing girl. However, he told us not to go to the mountain since it was easy to get lost there, and that we should head back early. Zhao Wuyang and I responded with a nod and then left.


    Li Mazi was mad at me, so he decided to stay in the room and take a nap.


    Zhao Wuyang had been in this vige before. It only took him fifteen minutes to show me around on his second visit.


    See? This vige is very small. I thought Zhang Qinghai had lost his mind when he brought us to this ce for sightseeing.


    It seemed that Zhao Wuyang was reminded of his friends who had been skinned alive. His face had a somewhat forlorn expression. I patted his shoulder tofort him.


    Zhao Wuyang lifted his head and talked with a tinge of resentment in his voice. All of this happened because of Zhang Qinghai.


    I was surprised by his answer. Then, I looked him in the eyes with a smile. You know what? Ive encountered a lot of strange items over the years, and most of them contained resentful energy. The deceased be resentful souls if they pass away with unresolved resentments. What happened to you guys had something to do with Zhang Qinghai, but the rtionship was not that big. The problem mostly lies with you guys.


    Take yourself as an example. Youre not brave, and you always worry when you do something. You cant make a decision if theres no one supporting you. You said that you like to travel, but I think you just went along with what other people said when they asked you. Have you ever traveled alone and admired something that you <em>really</em> wanted to see?


    Zhao Wuyang was baffled.


    And Xue Peng had thating because of his greed. Dirty money is dangerous. When he touched the goods from that grave, he should have had the notion that he wouldnt have a nice end. I dont know the actual reason in Xiao Sisis case, but Im sure there was something along these lines. All of you had a weakness that Zhang Qinghai caught. He made use of your weaknesses toplete his n!


    Perhaps my words had been too harsh; Zhao Wuyang kept silent for the rest of our walk. I felt a little guilty, worrying that I had been excessive with my criticism.


    After all, who was I to criticize them?


    I felt embarrassed, so I looked around, pretending to take in the surroundings. We met a young viger on the way. He was shouldering a hoe while seemingly heading to work on the field.


    I smiled and approached him. Brother, excuse us, do you know any ces with beautifulndscapes around here? Im hoping to take some good photos.


    I respectfully offered him the pack of cigarettes while I spoke.

 Chapter 433: Bewitched

    Chapter 433: Bewitched


    The young man received the cigarettes, which would make things easier for us.


    He gave it some thought, then pointed at the Northeast. Im just a rough guy. I dont know what is beautiful to you, but the woods over there look nice.


    I seized the opportunity to probe. Brother, its rtivelyte now. Why would you work in the field at this time?


    The young man was instinctively annoyed when he heard my question. Its because of Old Wus family. His daughter went missing. We mobilized people in the entire vige to search for her.


    I pretended to look startled. Did you find her? Is she okay?


    Yeah, we did.


    The young man began to tell us the story, I cant live in this vige anymore. Im thinking about moving out. Tell me, why the hell would a teenage girl try to dig a tomb at midnight? Luckily shes young, so she didnt have that much strength and cked out while she was digging. Otherwise, something much more horrible would have happened.


    When he came to this part, he suddenly remembered something and checked around for eavesdroppers. After confirming that there was no one else, he carefully advised me, Dont tell anything to the others. This is our viges secret.


    Then, he picked up his hoe and left abruptly.


    After the young man had left, Zhao Wuyang said, A tomb? Could it be that abandoned tomb?


    Its not an abandoned tomb. Didnt you listen to the driver? Thats the Queen of the State of Qis final resting ce. She was well known as the ugliest woman in history: Zhong Wuyan.


    I made up my mind. I had to find a chance to see this legendary ugly Queen.


    When Zhao Wuyang and I returned to the old fellows house, Li Mazi was talking to the madwoman.


    I felt I was right about Li Mazi This fe was a potential nutcase deep down. He was chatting andughing with the madwoman as if they were long-lost friends.


    The madwoman looked anxious when she noticed our arrival. She hugged herself and hid in the corner. She didnt want toe out to see us.


    Li Mazi said with a despicable smile, How ugly can the two of you be? Youve scared the mad girl. Look at me here, Im so handsome and youthful While talking, it looked as if he wanted to take out the pocket mirror to check his face again.


    I quickly stopped his hand. Do you think youre Daniel Wu? The mirror would vomit at the prospect of reflecting your image!


    Actually, I was afraid that the mirror would stimte the madwoman again. We would definitely be ousted from their house if her parents saw that.


    Once we were back in the room, Li Mazi lowered his voice and asked me, Did you find any clues?


    I nodded as I looked at Zhao Wuyang. Can you still find your way around in that forbidden area?


    Zhao Wuyang shook his head. I cant. I was flustered back then, and Zhang Qinghai had the map, not me. He led us through the forest, and I dont remember the route


    Things would be difficult then.


    Li Mazi said, Why dont I pretend to be sick? That way we could ask Old Wang to draw you another map.


    I dismissed his idea immediately. Theyre not fools. You can only use this trick once. They might get suspicious if its done a second time.


    Li Mazi offered another idea. What about bribing someone to take us there?


    Thats even more unlikely to work. Didnt you see? The people in this vige are strangely united. Perhaps they even swore some kind of oath. Thats why the young man we spoke with was afraid of being seen. My guess is that theres a severe punishment for those who disclose the secret! I sighed with reluctance and continued, Although there arent many people living in this vige, they always support each other if a family needs help. All of it seems a bit strange to me...


    Zhao Wuyang tensed up. What should we do now?


    Iforted him, then turned to Li Mazi. Stay with him in the room. Im going out for a walk around the vige.


    Li Mazi saw me out with a bit of worry. Be careful. Remember to call me if you decide to take action.


    I felt somewhat touched after noticing that he did have some sense of obligation.


    Li Mazi then added, That way, there would be someone to pick up your body if something happens to you.


    You bastard!


    I got up and kicked him. Li Mazi scurried away to hide in the room.


    I left the courtyard alone and wandered around the small vige for a while. After some time, I heard people crying and screaming in a house close to the entrance of the vige.


    Something happened here?


    I followed the noise and picked up the pace. The house of this family didnt have a high fence, so I could crane my neck and peek over to see what was happening.


    I saw an old woman sitting in the yard, hugging a little girl around twelve or thirteen years of age. The girl had disheveled hair, with eyes rolled to the back of her head. She was struggling as if she were possessed, trying to crawl away.


    My girl, are youall right? How could I continue living if something bad happens to you?! the old woman cried loudly, with tears and nasal fluid rolling down her face.


    Shsss! The little girl in her arms suddenly made a silencing gesture. Shes calling me! I have to go to her! Shes calling me.


    The old woman was so scared she forgot to cry. Whos calling you?


    The person in the tomb. The little girl smiled oddly. She told me that Ive grown up and be beautiful. She wants my face.


    The old woman wept louder. Husband! Husband! Hurry,e check our daughter! Shes bewitched!


    An old but strong man holding a rake ran to them as he heard the woman calling. He had a long pipe tucked in his belt. Whats going on?


    The old woman pointed at the girl in her arms. Our daughter began to rant nonsense.


    The girl lifted her head and gazed at the old man. Its true. The person in the tomb is calling me. Listen, shes talking right now.


    The old man was scared by this and turned pale. She was all right yesterday. What happened?


    Im sure shes under a spell. Otherwise, why would she run off to dig out the tomb all of a sudden? The old woman cried her heart out.


    The old man sighed. No, shes not. Lets go see the Vige Elder.


    Then, he tried his best to scoop the girl up and headed out with his wife in tow.


    It seemed that the girl was the formerly missing daughter from Old Wus family. She had been enchanted by Zhong Wuyans resentful energy; that was why she had tried to dig out the tomb.


    I hurried to catch up with them.


    The only advantage the Vige Elder had over the others was that he had a house with a bigger courtyard. There was a barn inside the courtyard, where two old donkeys were kept.


    After hearing Old Wu and his wife crying, a white-bearded old man walked out of the house. He looked at the girl in Old Wus arms, then frowned and asked, What happened?


    Our daughter was all right before. Then, she went missingst night, and shes been babbling nonsense ever since we found her! Sir, please save my daughter. We had her in old age, and shes our only daughter. Old Wus voice shivered in fear.


    The little girl was giggling as she looked at the Vige Elder. Her state was exactly the same as the madwomans.


    The Vige Elder kept silent for a long time. Then, he waved his hand and said with a serious tone, Take her to the mountain!

 Chapter 434: The Secret of the Village Elder

    Chapter 434: The Secret of the Vige Elder


    In general, such practices weremon in remote areas.


    To prevent seriously ill people from infecting the others, or a mentally unstable family member from wreaking havoc, they would decide to take those poor souls to the mountains, leaving them to survive on their own.


    This girl was young and vulnerable. She would soon die if she were taken to the mountain!


    As soon as Mrs. Wu heard that, she screamed until her lungs almost gave out. No, we dont want to do that! Shes our only hope, the only thing that allows us to carry on in this life. If shes taken to the mountain we dont have any reason to live anymore!


    The Vige Elder frowned. You tell me then, what should we do now? What if this crazy girl hurts you?


    Mrs. Wu answered, Even if shes really crazy, we would never send her to the mountain. Well follow the Wang familys example. Ill tie her up and take care of her.


    The Vige Elder sighed. Both of you, how old are you now? How many more years do you think you could linger in this life? If you two die, wouldnt it be the same as all of you dying, including your daughter?


    Mrs. Wu pursed her lips. She didnt know how to answer.


    The little girl giggled innocently. Shes calling me again. Let me go. Let me go. I have to run to her. She cant wait for me. She said that I have a beautiful face. She wants my face.


    The Vige Elder listened to her, and his countenance changed immediately. Listen to her. Shes already starting to spout nonsense! If you dont send her away, no one in our vige will be able to survive. If you cant make up your mind, we will summon a Hall meeting!


    The so-called Hall meeting was made with representatives sent by every family. They would talk and vote to solve the matter.


    This kind of practice had existed before the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, and it was abolished long ago. Old Wu looked at the girl next in his arms and nodded with his teeth gritted.


    I didnt dare to linger, so I moved away from the corner where I was hiding.


    It seemed that simr things had happened in the vige before, even before the madwomans case. However, the vigers ultimately decided to keep silent about it. They either didnt know what to do or were hiding something.


    When I returned to the old fellows house, we happened to run into each other as he was on his way out to answer the Hall summon.


    He vigntly looked at me. Where did you go? His tone wasnt friendly at all.


    I turned to him, saying, I was bored, so I went out for a walk to get some fresh air.


    Dont go wandering around. The old man frowned, his voice growing strangely strict. This ce isnt a tourist attraction. Just stay in the room if you have nothing else to do. Or leave this ce if youve already taken enough photos.


    Then, he left in a hurry.


    I went back to the room and only saw Zhao Wuyang inside; Li Mazi was nowhere to be seen.


    Zhao Wuyang was lying on the bed, but he sat up the moment he saw me. Hows it going? Did you find anything?


    I looked at him and replied, Yeah, I did find something. Its just like you said. Every corner of this vige is strange. I think that everybody knows about the oddness of that tomb, but they keep silent about it. And, even the madwoman in this family


    Before I finished talking, Li Mazi suddenly rushed into the room. I got something! His face looked excited.


    What is it? I was curious.


    Ive chatted with the madwoman. Guess what? Although she has lost her mind, she still remembers something. I asked her why she wanted to go to the mountain She said that Xiao Mei from the Vige Elders family took her there, telling her that it would be fun to go y in the mountain. I asked her to tell me more, but she was too scared to continue. She shivered and stopped answering. My guess is that whatever happened after that was really horrifying, enough to make her lose her mind. Li Mazi winked at me. How was it? Is this a big find or not?


    <em>This case seems to be rted to the Vige Elder. Hes tried his best to send all the people affected by Zhong Wuyans resentful power to the mountain. What is he trying to hide?</em>


    I knew we couldnt linger there anymore. I grabbed Li Mazi and Zhao Wuyang, heading to the Vige Elders house.


    The Hall meeting was still in session. Old Wu sat in the middle, looking dispirited, while the others were raising their voices and shouting as it seemed they had yet to reach a consensus. Some agreed to send the girl to the mountain; some said that there werent many people in this vige and that she should stay to continue the family bloodline.


    While they were still discussing, I pushed the door and entered with a casual attitude.


    All the people present stopped talking and could only gawk at me.


    Our host was surprised, but he got himself together quickly. Why did youe here? Get back to your room! He sounded angry and restless. He even tried to shove us away.


    The Vige Elder frowned. Old Wang, whats going on? Who are they?


    They are visitors. They just wanted to take some photos


    I introduced myself, not even letting our host finish, Im a merchant, specialized in collecting strange items. This time, I came to the Wuyan Vige because of the abandoned tomb in your forbidden area.


    The entire yard became dead silent.


    The old fellow gawked, pointing his finger at me. You You


    The Vige Elder stood bewildered for a while. He soon gathered himself. We dont have any kind of forbidden areas or abandoned tombs. You should leave!


    His reaction was clearly making his guilt evident.


    I looked at him with a gentle smile. Vige Elder, I have some questions I want to ask you. Before Miss Wang lost her mind, I heard that she had gone to the mountain with Xiao Mei from your family. Is this true?


    The Vige Elder wasnt pleased. He red at me and replied, Everybody in this vige knows that.


    Still, he carefully scanned around to check for reactions.


    The people in the vige didnt seem to know all the details.


    I nodded and continued, Back then, Xiao Mei told the madwoman that there was something fun to do in the mountain. What was that fun activity? Did it have something to do with robbing the tomb over there?


    I had just made that up to probe a bit. However, the Vige Elders face quickly changed when he heard that. He took several steps backward as if he had been hit by lightning.


    You Who are you? How did you know that?


    <em>Oh, I was right.</em>


    I decided to scare him. The person in the tomb told me.


    Thats impossible. Shes a white skeleton. How could she talk to you? the Vige Elder said without thinking to debunk what I said.


    <em>Haha, gotcha!</em>


    Li Mazi took a step forward. Vige Elder, how did you know that the person inside the coffin had be a white skeleton? Did you open it to see with your own eyes?


    The Vige Elder was pale and his lips shivered. He couldnt utter a word. All the people in the courtyard were baffled and ck-jawed by this revtion. They started to discuss.


    The Vige Elder pried the coffin open? Wasnt that a forbidden area?


    So, Xiao Mei took the crazy girl to the mountain to look for the tomb?


    How scared was that girl that she ended up losing her mind?


    After some exchanges, all the people turned to look at the Vige Elder.


    Our host couldnt believe it. He gazed at the Vige Elder and asked, You Did you purposely harm my daughter?


    The Vige Elder shook his head. No, it wasnt me. I didnt hurt her.


    He seemed to be too scared at the moment. He took a few steps, but he was stopped by the vigers present at the Hall meeting.


    Vige Elder, what happened?


    You must tell us the truth. We want justice!


    The abandoned area isnt a ce someone can freely visit. How could you go there?


    Did you dig up the tomb?


    All the vigers showered the Vige Elder with questions.

 Chapter 435: The Truth

    Chapter 435: The Truth


    The Vige Elder couldnt say a word. He started to sweat, but all he could do was shake his head.


    I was afraid he would go crazy if the overall mood kept boiling up this way.


    I shoved my way through the crowd, shouting, Guys, calm down. We need to listen to the Vige Elder.


    Immediately, a hot-tempered viger barked, Who are you? This is our viges business, and youre an outsider. Why do you care?


    He said something about being a merchant and collecting strange items


    Shsss, dont mess with him! He looks very capable. If you offend him, Im afraid you won''t have nice dayster, Old Wu advised the other vigers.


    Everyone stopped talking as soon as he said that; they looked at me with frightened and respectful eyes. I made signs for them to sit down and asked Li Mazi to bring a chair for the Vige Elder.


    Then, I said with a righteous tone, Vige Elder, your Wuyan Vige has been suffering for years due to paranormal activities, and its all because of the abandoned tomb in that forbidden area! You muste clean in front of everyone if you want to solve this problem thoroughly and prevent more tragedies from happening.


    The Vige Elder looked at me for quite a long time.


    Eventually, he sighed. Kid, youre not wrong. I unearthed the tomb in the past. We were suffering from natural disasters back then, and we couldnt harvest any crops. The entire vige was struck hard by famine. One day, I went to join a meeting in another vige where I heard about people robbing tombs. Some of them even got rich. I couldnt help but think, what if the tomb in our vige also had some treasures? I made up my mind and carried out a n to dig the big tomb in the forbidden area, only daring to include my son in this. We decided to dig the tomb at night; the idea was to collect all the valuable items that could be exchanged for food. Unfortunately, Xiao Mei overheard our conversation while we were nning. She thought it was fun, and instead of being frightened, she secretly tagged along, taking the madwoman with her to join in the fun on the mountain. My son and I had to spend the whole night digging, just to finally be able to pry the coffin open.


    What was inside the coffin?


    Im sure it was silver and gold jewelry. Otherwise, how could the Vige Elders family have two donkeys?


    The vigers sneered. Their mor didnt seem to faze him.


    He continued the story. Except for a bronze mirror and some small grave goods, there was only a skeleton inside. It was the first time my son and I had done something like that. We were terrified, so we just took a couple of things. I didnt know that Xiao Mei had also gone to the mountain with the madwoman until she came to us. Xiao Mei liked the bronze mirror, so she asked me to give it to her. I couldnt persuade her, and I thought that the mirror didnt have any real value, so I eventually gave it to her


    Before he finished, the old fellow bellowed angrily, What happened to my daughter? What made her go crazy?!


    One of the vigers chimed in, Does it need to be said? Im sure the Vige Elder didnt want people to know that he had robbed the tomb so he scared the girl. She was just a little girl back then, of course it would be too much for her. Thats why she went crazy


    The old fellow shot up from his chair, roaring and storming toward the Vige Elder. You are a ck-hearted dog! And here I thought you were a good man! You harmed my daughter and drove her mad!


    The two began to scuffle, but the other vigers hurried to stop the fight, pulling the old fellow and the Vige Elder apart.


    The Vige Elders clothes were torn, and his nose was bleeding.


    Someforted the old fellow, Uncle Wang, dont be mad. The Vige Elders daughter also went missing. Perhaps theres some mystery here.


    While I witnessed the scene, I managed to learn that our aging host was called Uncle Wang.


    Uncle Wangpanted, shooting malicious looks at the Vige Elder. His look clearly implied that if the Vige Elder didnt give him a reasonable exnation, he would stake his life to fight with him!


    The Vige Elder looked as though he had aged ten years in just a blink. He answered tiredly, Actually, our Xiao Mei never went missing.


    What? Where is she? The vigers were surprised.


    The Vige Elder used his sleeve to wipe his bleeding nose. He turned and walked to a closed mud-walled room. He called, Xiao Mei,e out.


    Soon, a bony figure walked out of the room. The entire yard became dead silent the moment she appeared in front of them. They had even forgotten to breathe.


    The woman looked slender, and her hair was sparse and brownish. However, the most terrifying feature was her face. It looked as if her face was burned in the past as many scars remained. A small bit from a corner of her mouth was missing. My skin crawled at the very first sight of her.


    The Vige Elder pointed at her. This is my daughter Xiao Mei


    Those present were baffled. They couldnt believe their eyes; some even rubbed them to be sure. I got a hold of myself quickly, even though I was equally startled.


    The skin on Xiao Meis face had been destroyed because she had looked at her image in the mirror!


    The Vige Elder said, To avoid getting discovered, my son and I closed the coffin and buried it again. However, I suddenly heard my daughter Xiao Mei screaming in the distance. Xiao Mei was unconscious and bleeding badly when we got there. The madwoman stood next to her, staring in fright. She was so scared that she couldnt utter a word. I was also frightened, as I was worried that the consequences of our sin had affected my daughter. My son told me that the mirror was evil, so he asked me to put it back in the tomb. I took Xiao Mei home in secret. As I knew that people in the vige would say she was a monster after ending with such an appearance, I decided to hide her away. Xiao Mei was also struck hard emotionally She hasnt said a word ever since. Shes been living as if her soul had been taken away.


    Everybody exchanged looks, but no one uttered a word.


    Uncle Wang was baffled. He had never thought that the cause of his daughters mental issues stemmed from such a terrifying event.


    The Vige Elder sounded regretful. My son then sold the goods we took from the grave. We couldnt exchange for much food at that time. No family could make ends meet during that year, so most of you came to my house to borrow flour and rice Where did you think that came from? We were able to get that food thanks to that money. And then, not even a year had passed when my son went to the mountain. He tripped and died, leaving me alone to take care of Xiao Mei.


    The other people looked at the Vige Elder with sympathy in their eyes.


    What did you do to the bronze mirror? I asked the Vige Elder.


    He thought for a bit and answered, I buried it on the spot as my son had suggested.


    I couldnt help but frown.How did that mirror return to the coffin?


    I shuddered after recalling Zhang Qinghais hand posture when he died.


    Did that mirror have a spirit already? It was returning to the coffin after skinning the faces of its victims.


    If that were the case, this otherworldly item would be tough to deal with


    The Vige Elder assessed me. Kid, Im done talking. Now, its your turn.


    After he said that, the other vigers shifted their eyes at me.


    I cleared my throat. Im not going to lie to you. Four young people traveled to this vige a while ago. Except for Zhao Wuyang, who is right next to me, the other three had their faces skinned. The reason is the same All of them saw their reflections in the mirror. That thing is the source of all the problems; we need to deal with the mirror if we want to solve this.


    What did you just say? The Vige Elder was scared. They dug out that tomb?

 Chapter 436: Heading to the Mountain

    Chapter 436: Heading to the Mountain


    Did you take all the goods inside the grave? The Vige Elder patted his thigh.


    Zhao Wuyang nodded embarrassedly.


    Thats terrible The Vige Elder plopped back down on the chair, his eyes dispirited.


    I lost my peace of mind after digging that tomb. I had nightmares every night where I saw Xiao Meis face fly in the sky. I also saw my son with blood all over his face, demanding my life. I spoke about this with an elder in our vige. He told me that the tomb belonged to Zhong Wuyan. Although she was a Queen, she never received love from King Xuan of Qi. The Kings favorite concubine Xia Yingchun had even schemed against her, so she killed herself with a heart full of resentment. She didnt close her eyes even in death.


    Every night, ghosts would cry in the pce after Zhong Wuyans death. King Xuan of Qi was afraid to sleep in such conditions. Later on, a Daoist priest suggested to the King that Zhong Wuyans bronze mirror should be buried with her. She had used it daily, and the mirror would be a reminder for her: she couldnt im mens hearts because she was ugly, and she shouldnt me it on others. The n was to kill Zhong Wuyans resentment!


    King Xuan of Qi did as he was suggested. Soon after, the ghosts really stopped crying in the pce. Years passed, and tomb robbers rampaged throughout thend after the founding of the Peoples Republic of China. Many of them knew that Shandong was the territory of the State of Qi, where many generals and nobles had been buried, so they came here to rob the tombs clean. However, no matter who robbed Zhong Wuyans tomb, the mirror would soon return to the coffin. Since it was too strange, the tomb robbers no longer dared to rob that tomb anymore, and the ce became our viges forbidden area. The elder then asked me to buy some jewels and ce them inside the coffin to appease Zhong Wuyans anger. Otherwise, the entire Wuyan Vige would be doomed! The Vige Elder was still scared when he told us the story.


    I shot Li Mazi a nce and found that he was listening with rapt attention.


    It wasnt different from what I had imagined. That mirror did have a spirit; no matter who took it away, it would always find its way back to Zhong Wuyan, its owner.


    I listened to the elders advice, so I bought some jewels and once again went to the forbidden area at night time to open the tomb. You know what I saw? The bronze mirror was inside the coffin. My legs turned to jelly I was scared out of my pants. I just threw the jewels into the coffin, kowtowed a few times and hurried to cover the tomb again.


    So, all of the stuff that Xue Peng took from the tomb was from our modern era. Zhang Qinghai only took that bronze mirror because he knew this already?


    But how did he know that?


    No one could give me the answer to this question as Zhang Qinghai was already dead.


    Hey, what should we do now? How about offering a pig to the deceased?


    What if Zhong Wuyan holds grudges against all of us? She would skin all of our faces!


    We should move out of this vige! I dont want to live in this stupid vige anymore. The vigers started to discuss things noisily.


    I hurried to stand up and raise the pitch of my voice. As itse to this, you think you can escape this by running away? My friends were already back in the city when they were attacked. Instead of moving elsewhere, you should think about how to solve this potential problem, once and for all.


    Thats easy for you to say. How many years has the tomb been there? Have you thought about that? What can we do if our seniors couldnt deal with it? A viger red at me.


    I gave him a smile. Of course we can do something about it. Your ancestors couldnt solve it because they didnt get to know me, Zhang Jiulin. Actually, theres nothing in this world I havent been able to solve yet!


    Li Mazi quietly gave me a thumbs-up. Terrific!


    Zhao Wuyang looked at me with eyes full of awe. Then, he seemed to be thinking about something as he held his head low.


    The Viger Elder didnt buy it. He looked at me and said, Youre too young. What abilities could you have? Moreover, how can we trust you? What if instead of solving this you provoke the spirit further and make it attack our vige?


    I gently waved my hand. Youll immediately know if someone has experience in this field or not; it has nothing to do with age. You just need to listen to me. Im sure I can solve this thoroughly.


    The Vige Elder gathered his people on one side and discussed this for a good while. In the end, he told me, All right, well trust you this time. What should we do now?


    I thought for a moment and said, Prepare some rice wine, empty bowls, and red threads. Itste today, so we will go to Zhong Wuyans tomb tomorrow when the roosters crow.


    Uncle Wang treated me much better after we left the Vige Elders house. He even asked his wife to make me some scrambled eggs when we returned to his home.


    After dinner, Li Mazi said to me in private, Little Brother Zhang, how certain are you about this? I feel this mirror is really powerful.


    Rest assured. Ive never fought a battle unprepared. I smiled to ease his nerves.


    We went to bed early since we had to work hard the next day.


    It was around midnight when I was woken up by people banging at the main door.


    Uncle Wang and Aunt Wang had already gotten up to open. The vigers outside screamed, Hurry! Call the master staying in your house! Old Wus daughters missing again!


    What? We found herst night, didnt we? Uncle Wang asked as he put on more clothes.


    They lost sight of her! the vigerined.


    I didnt wait for uncle Wang to knock on our door. I had already put on my clothes and walked out.


    Uncle Wang told me, Boy, Old Wangs daughter is missing again. Im almost sure that she went to the tomb. We should hurry over to find her!


    I felt that something was strange.


    I grabbed Uncle Wang and asked, Uncle Wang, have simr events happened in the vige before?


    No. Uncle Wang shook his head, his face worried. Even after my daughters incident, our vige has been mostly quiet and peaceful. I dont know whats going on.


    In other words, the mirror had gained more power by skinning peoples faces. This time, as it had the faces of Zhang Qinghai, Xue Peng, and Xiao Sisi, it had enough resentful energy to enchant Old Wus daughter!


    The girl would offer her face to the mirror once she took it out from the tomb. The stronger the mirror became, the more people would be enchanted! It was a horrible, endless cycle of death!


    I quickly woke Li Mazi and Zhao Wuyang up. The three of us followed the vigers and went to the mountain.


    Uncle Wang was leading the group with the travel shlight Zhang Qinghai had offered him. Li Mazi and I followed close behind him.

 Chapter 437: Immortal Binding Rope

    Chapter 437: Immortal Binding Rope


    We were gasping for breath when we arrived at the forbidden area. Sure enough, Old Wus daughter was looming over the tomb, trying to dig out the soil with her bare hands. Her fingernails were all gone, and her blood was mixed with the mud. However, she didnt feel any pain. I even caught a glimpse of satisfaction on her face as she smiled, repeating, You said that Im beautiful. Is that true?


    Old Wu was terrified. He hurried to grab her and pull her close to his chest. However, the little girl gave an ear-splitting scream. She suddenly became too strong for her age and pushed Old Wu away. Then, she dashed toward the tomb again.


    The Vige Elder called over some strong young men to pull the girl away and suppress her.


    What should we do now? The Vige Elder looked at me with deep concern.


    I lifted my head to check the sky. It was still a few hours till dawn. I asked the Vige Elder, Get a rope and tie the girl. We have to wait until the break of dawn.


    If we dug the tomb at night like this, we would disrespect the tomb owner and encounter great danger.


    After hearing me, the vigers exhaled in relief.


    It was curious to find that, although the vige didnt have many things, they sure had ropes. They tied the girls hands together with the swine-killing knot.


    Everybody, please stay here and wait. Well take action when the sky gets brighter. To encourage them, I even added, This is Wuyan Vige, where you have lived for generations. Its thend of the living The deceased should leave! Please do your best today, for the future of your children, and to prevent more cases like that of the mad girl from appearing.


    Some people found my pep talk amusing.


    Hey, little brother, youre not old, but your speech was really pleasant to the ears. Youre right. The deceased should go away and reincarnate! Dont linger and hold on to grudges about matters that happened when you were alive. Stop disturbing the living!


    Yeah, right. We grew up inWuyanVige.WuyanVige is our home! the vigers shouted.


    No matter what, my purpose had been achieved. Li Mazi smiled at me in admiration. We then went to a secluded ce to fend off the strong wind.


    Li Mazi, who was someone that could even sleep while hugging an atomic bomb, began to snore shortly after.


    Zhao Wuyang and I couldnt sleep. He said to me, That night, I was also like this. I hid behind a big tree, not daring to move. Ive thought about it these days. They wouldnt have died if I had been brave enough to stop them that day.


    ZhaoWuyangbegan to me himself since his friends had been harmed andter died one after another.


    I smiled andforted him, Youre still young. Youll get to experience more and more things in the future. If this event can change your personality and lessen your regret, my actions would not have been in vain.


    Zhao Wuyang appreciated my words. He looked at me and said, Is the fee to invite you very expensive? I dont know if my savings are enough.


    Dont worry. If your deposit isnt enough, you can pay slowly. I winked at Zhao Wuyang. If I need to fix my teethter, Ill rely on you.


    Zhao Wuyang smiled happily. Right until dawn, he kept repeating the things I had told him.


    Except for Li Mazi, none of the people who had gone to the forbidden ce slept a wink. We started to work when the sky turned brighter. At first, I poured the rice wine into the empty bowls, cing them around the tomb in ordance with the Eight Diagrams directions. I used the red threads to chain all the bowls together. This setup was called Immortal Binding Rope, which was used to prevent resentful energy from escaping.


    I checked the sky again; it was the right time. I quickly announced, Its good now! Lets start digging!


    Since many people had joined our outing, the coffin was soon exposed.


    Zhao Wuyang seemed like he had fixed his cowardly personality. He was at the front, digging harder than anyone else. I smiled, feeling satisfied.


    Li Mazi was surprised. That kids bewitched? Should we tie him up too?


    He wasnt bewitched. He had finally changed!


    The coffin was smaller than I had imagined. It was made of cedar wood, and it had yet to rot, even after thousands of years. No one would buy it if people said there was nothing strange about this coffin!


    Anyway, there was no need to be wary of this coffin since it had been opened many times. I asked four strong young men to pry the coffin open for us.


    The Vige Elder was worried. Dont you need to light up some candles?


    Li Mazi burst outughing. You should do that if you want to take the grave goods. But we arent going to take the goods. No need to light up a candle.


    The Vige Elder embarrassedly stopped talking.


    The coffin lid was gently lifted, revealing a gray-white skeleton. Its hands were crossed over its chest, holding a sparkling bronze mirror.


    Copper material would develop a patina when ced in a humid environment. However, except for some dabs of patina at the corners, this bronze mirror was really bright, reflecting dazzling shes under the sunlight.


    I had reminded people earlier that they should move aside once the lid was opened. They had to prevent their curiosity from getting the best of them. If they were careless and their faces got skinned, they could not me it on my skills!


    At this moment, the red thread I had tied around the tomb began to vibrate.


    Itseems like the resentful energy is trying to escape!


    I hurried to cover my eyes with my hand as I rushed toward the tomb. I used a piece of red fabric to cover and wrap the bronze mirror with it. The red threads calmed down.


    This bronze mirror was the most important clue. If we wanted to solve this case, we had to subdue this mirror first.


    But how to subdue it?


    I took out the rooster blood from my bag and carefully poured it onto the red fabric. The blood seeped through the fabricyers, disappearing in the blink of an eye.


    Holy crap! This mirror sure can drink rooster blood


    The mirror was strong, and it wasnt afraid of many tricks which were normally used to expel evil.


    This case is tough!


    I scratched my head as I tried to think of a solution. Li Mazi suggested, This mirror will return to this tomb no matter where its been taken, right? We should deal with itsir first. Once we fix the matter with the grave, we can deal with the mirror.


    It was rare for Li Mazi to offer such a reliable suggestion. If I didnt consider it, Im afraid it would hurt his confidence.


    I agreed, giving him a nod. Good idea!


    Li Mazi was excited since I had agreed to his proposal. Guys, collect some wood. Were going to burn their of this bastard.


    We had burned Ruan Lingyus coffin when we solved the goldfish bracelet case. This day, we were going to burn Zhong Wuyans coffin. A funny thought crossed my mind: we should leave the otherworldly item business for good and focus on mastering our burning skills.


    I hurried to stop him. No need to burn it. This ce isnt simr to the others. Her skeleton is all that remains, so she can cause no harm. The real source of the problem is the mirror. You shouldnt disturb the house of the deceased!


    Li Mazi was surprised. Then, what should we do?


    Get a red cloth and soak it with rice wine and use that cloth to cover the skeleton. Then, chain the Five Emperor Coins with the red threads, winding them three times around the coffin.


    The people hurried to follow my instructions.


    No wonder many people wanted to be leaders. The feeling of giving orders wasnt bad at all!

 Chapter 438: The Bronze Mirror Seeks Its Master

    Chapter 438: The Bronze Mirror Seeks Its Master


    As the saying goes, the more the merrier.


    Soon, the vigers prepared the red cloth soaked with rice wine, covering the skeleton with it.


    ording to history, Zhong Wuyan had been incredibly gifted. No one could have ever thought that she would have such an end!


    I sighed and gestured for the others to close the coffin lid and use the red thread to circle it three times. Once they did so, I passed the ends of the red thread through a coin that dated back to the Qianlong period (1735-1799) and tied a slip knot.


    After all the preparations werepleted, I crawled out of the grave, asking people to cover the tomb with soil again.


    ording to themon rule, this was the time I had to say something to ease the deceased and let her rest forever. Thus, I cleared my voice and said, Zhong Wuyan, Zhong Wuyan, since youve already gone to the afterlife, you should no longer care about beauty or ugliness. You should leave and reincarnate soon


    mes shed before I could finish my speech, and the entire tomb boomed as if it had exploded.


    Zhao Wuyang was fast. He jumped and pulled me aside with him.


    Some spots on my clothes were burning, and my eyebrows and fringe were burned a little bit by the st.


    But the other two men who were filling the tomb werent as lucky as I was. Parts of their bodies had caught on fire; they were screaming and rolling on the ground. Some vigers took off their coats and used them to extinguish the mes. However, the two men still had many burn blisters on their exposed skin.


    Li Mazi was scared. He asked me with a pale face, Little Brother Zhang, are you okay? Did you get hurt?


    I hurried to get up from the ground, sending Zhao Wuyang a thank-you nod. Then, I watched the tall me in front of me in puzzlement.


    Why did this happen?


    Why is the tomb burning all of a sudden?


    Did I take a wrong step somewhere?


    Impossible. I followed the rules and steps to a tee. Moreover, its not the first time I''ve done this!


    I carefully recalled the procedure and found the mistake.


    The fire burst out when I mentioned the name Zhong Wuyan. Perhaps I shouldnt have said the name aloud?


    To deceased people, except for their souls, which were in an immortal form, everything they had ever owned was gone. Their names were their sole belongings. When I called her name, she should have been happy since someone had remembered her. It should have been like that.


    Is Zhong Wuyan buried somewhere else?


    I was scared by my own thoughts. However, I couldnt find any other suitable exnation.


    But if Zhong Wuyan wasnt buried there, whose skeleton was that?


    From its overreaction, I guessed it loathed the name Zhong Wuyan.


    Right then, Li Mazi suddenly pointed at the ce we had put the mirror. Little Brother Zhang, look, the mirror is gone!


    What?!


    I quickly turned around. While we were handling the coffin and the grave, we had left the mirror underneath a big tree not far from us. However, it was no longer there. The red thread we had hung there had be an empty loop,ughing at me like a broad mouth.


    I bit my lip and called the others to put out the fire first. The fire wasnt ordinary, and it burned for almost three hours before it finally subsided. We had tried all kinds of methods to extinguish it, but to no avail.


    However, the whole situation was somewhat amusing since it was us who would always try to burn coffins. It was the first time that we were saving a coffin from a fire.


    Once the fire was extinguished, I didnt even mind the burning-hot soil as I jumped into the pit and checked the area. Except for the ashes from the coffin, there was nothing else, not even a piece of charred bone.


    In theory, there was no marrow inside the bones as this person had been dead for a long time. It would be very difficult to burn the skeleton into ashes, and even if it did happen, some ashes should have remained. Yet, there was nothing left.


    I found this unbelievable.


    Not only that, the missing mirror wasnt inside the pit.


    Li Mazi pulled me up and asked in a hurry, Wheres the mirror?


    Not here. I shook my head.


    I asked the vigers to fill the pit yet again.


    The vigers wore long faces on their way back home. They deliberately slowed down, pointing at me and whispering amongst themselves.


    I knew they were doubting my abilities!


    Since the mirror had disappeared, no one knew what Wuyan Vige was about to face.


    However, as soon as we returned to the vige, a few of the women who lived near the vige entrance dashed toward us. Uncle Wang, you should go home! Hurry up! Your mad daughter is acting strange. She broke away from the chain and grabbed a sickle. Shes about to go on a killing spree!


    Opening the coffin was a task that required the Yang energy from the men. That was why we had asked the women to stay in the vige.


    Uncle Wang ran back to his house. I paused to think for a moment, then followed him.


    When Uncle Wang kicked his door open, we saw that the madwoman had freed herself from the iron chain and was holding a sickle in her hand. She was pressing Aunt Wang onto the floor and had ced the edge of the sickle by her ear. She just needed to move the sickle a little bit, and she would be able to peel off her mothers face.


    The madwoman didnt want to kill Aunt Wang. She wanted to skin her face!


    Uncle Wang slumped directly onto the ground.


    Fortunately, Li Mazi and Zhao Wuyang were also there. They charged forward without much thought. One of them pulled the madwoman away, and the other snatched the sickle from her hand.


    The madwoman screamed deliriously, Get off me! I want to peel your face! Why do you get to have a face while I dont have mine anymore? Give me your face!


    I dashed toward the mud-walled room where the mad girl stayed and kicked the door open. A strong light shed right at me.


    The bronze mirror was on the madwomans table.


    Why did it look for the madwoman?


    Does it want to borrow her hand to take revenge?


    I took my jacket off and used it to cover the mirror since I wasnt daring enough toe into direct contact with the artifact.


    The madwoman in the courtyard stopped struggling right when the mirror was covered. She beamed genuinely at Li Mazi, who was keeping her in control, thinking that he was ying some games with her.


    Aunt Wang had a bleeding cut on her face. She was so scared that her face was chalk white. She covered her wound, lying on the ground and clueless about what she should do.


    Uncle Wang finally got a hold of himself. What happened? Why did my daughter suddenly attack my wife?


    I shook my head and exined, It wasnt your daughter. She was possessed.


    Aunt Wang was scared. I couldnt understand why she suddenly became so strong. She easily pinned me down Who was that person?


    If it wasnt Zhong Wuyan, who was it? This sudden change made me feel flustered.


    My conscience would never be at ease again if my actions had done harm to this vige.


    I needed to solve this.


    I went back to the madwomans room and grabbed the mirror, which was carefully wrapped with my jacket. Uncle Wang was frightened after seeing it. How did this thinge to my house?


    He reacted as if he had seen the God of gue. He waved his hands and said, Hurry, throw it away!


    Its no use, I said coldly. It proactivelysought your daughter. It seems like it has chosen her as its second master!


    The madwoman sat next to them, giggling foolishly.

 Chapter 439: Useful Zhong Wuyan, Useless Xia Yingchun

    Chapter 439: Useful Zhong Wuyan, Useless Xia Yingchun


    Uncle Wang didnt want to keep the mirror in his house as it was too strange. I also couldn''t figure out how it worked.


    I made up my mind after some consideration. I would take this mirror back to Wuhan.


    However, we would stay another night since it was already toote to drive back. I sent Li Mazi to negotiate with Uncle Wang. He begged the old man for quite a while, and in the end, Uncle Wang agreed to let us stay another night, but we had to leave early in the morning!


    Before we went to bed, Li Mazi curiously looked at the wrapped mirror and asked, Hey, is this mirror maliciously that scary? My heart feels a little itchy. I want to take a look at it.


    I snorted. Its better if you keep your hands to yourself. Otherwise, your ugly face will


    Perhaps Li Mazi was reminded of the Vige Elders daughter, Xiao Mei. Fear quickly overcame him; he shut his mouth and did not bring up this topic again.


    I couldnt sleep well that night. The big fire from the morning appeared in my mind. Inside the scarlet fire, I was somehow able to see the wiggling soul of a resentful woman.


    She had be a skeleton, and her pair of hands were ced in front of her chest. It looked like a binding posture.


    <em>Wait a moment...</em>


    I suddenly had a bad feeling.


    Wherever the bronze mirror was taken, it would eventually return to the coffin. What if it didnt have anything to do with the mirrors spirit What if it was because of some restraint?


    Once the mirror got rid of this restraint, it would go on a rampage and skin peoples faces. But it couldnt do anything when it returned to the coffin.


    It had always enticed people to take it away. It wanted to escape this coffin.


    We hadnt subdued it... We had actually helped it get rid of the restraint!


    I woke up and sat up on the brick bed. Li Mazi and Zhao Wuyang were nearby, sleeping soundly. I turned to look at the mirror and was immediately frightened. The mirror I had wrapped in my jacket had disappeared!


    <em>Not good! It went to find another victim!</em>


    I kicked Li Mazi and Zhao Wuyang to wake them up. Get up! Hurry! The mirror is gone


    Li Mazi drowsily rubbed his eyes. Mirror? What mirror?


    Zhao Wuyang reacted fast. Gone? Where? The two of us put on the rest of our clothes and left the room. I didnt even think as I simply ran toward the madwomans room. She was sleeping safe and sound on her bed. The mirror wasnt in her room.


    <em>The mirror isnt here!</em>


    A thought popped up as my eyes brightened. Lets go to Old Wus house! Im sure the mirror went to find his daughter.


    While we were running, we saw Old Wu and his wife running from the opposite direction. Their faces were contorted with sadness when they saw us. Our daughter went missing again!


    <em>The girl is missing...</em>


    Hurry, call the other fellows and find her! We must be careful. The girl is very dangerous now! I cried out.


    Soon, all the sleeping vigers were awoken. They held shlights as they made their way to the mountain to find the little girl. Zhao Wuyang and I went to the forbidden area first to check the tomb; except for the lone tombstone and the grave, there was nothing else.


    If this tombstone hadnt been as weathered down, perhaps we would have been able to recognize the name of the tombs owner. I could have found out who had been buried there.


    Zhao Wuyang looked anxious. Any ideas about where the girl went? Shes only around twelve or thirteen years old


    His words calmed me.


    It wasnt the girl who wanted to leave. It was the mirror that wanted to leave! The girl had been possessed by the spirit in the mirror.


    I looked at Zhao Wuyang as I pondered, Do you remember the ce where the tractor dropped us when we came to Wuyan Vige?


    You mean


    Yeah, I nodded. That mirror wants to leave this ce. It wants more faces, so it wants to go to a ce with many people!


    Neither Zhao Wuyang nor I needed to think further; we rushed back to the vige. We found Li Mazi on our way back and pulled him along, running to the vige entrance. We didnt even have time to exin things to him.


    I didnt know how long it had taken us, but we soon arrived at the ce the tractor had dropped us the other day. I could somehow make out a small figure in the distance.


    It was the missing girl!


    I hurried to catch up with her, not caring much about the looming danger. Little girl!


    The figure in front of me stopped and slowly turned around Sure enough, it was Old Wus daughter. However, her eyes were nk. She looked like a puppet as she held the bronze mirror with her nailless hands.


    Under the cold moonlight, I was surprised to see the reflection of a woman wearing ancient clothes in the mirror. She was looking at me with hatred in her eyes.


    Her entire face was bleeding horribly.


    The woman in the mirror smiled oddly. Im not called Little girl. My name is Xia Yingchun!


    <em>Xia Yingchun!</em>


    I was truly frightened. If Li Mazi and Zhao Wuyang hadnt followed me, which gave me a bit more courage, I would havended on my butt.


    However, I finally understood once I got a hold of myself.


    That tomb wasnt Zhong Wuyans. It was Xia Yingchuns tomb.


    Being Zhong Wuyans rival, no wonder she hated the name Zhong Wuyan that much.


    I had sensed that something was wrong when we had unearthed the tomb, but only now did I understand the whole story.


    The historical records mentioned that Zhong Wuyang had a strong frame. Perhaps her skeleton would be simr to a mans. Meanwhile, the skeleton inside the coffin was small. How could it belong to Zhong Wuyan?


    Have you ever heard my name? The woman in the mirror had a soft, seductive voice. If it werent for her bloody face, people could get mesmerized if they listened to her voice.


    Of course, I have. I nodded, my thoughts rolling fast to find a solution to deal with her.


    Useful Zhong Wuyan, useless Xia Yingchun!


    Nonsense! Xia Yingchun shouted coldly, Why did peoplepare me with that ugly, low woman? What was good about her? Why did people never find out that she only appeared to be smart, but she actually hid a despicable heart!


    Her voice was extremely sad. She looked both resentful and unwilling.


    Even if they were rivals, it shouldnt have been taken to such a degree, right?


    I looked at her bleeding face. An idea suddenly popped up. Your face, was it?


    Thats right. Xia Yingchun said through her gritted teeth, That damn Zhong Wuyan! She was too ugly and King Xuan of Qi didnt like her, so she was jealous of my beauty. One day, when His Majesty was away, she used her Queen status and ordered the servants to skin my face When His Majesty saw me, how could he continue to like me? He was so scared that he decided to bury me alive. All because of that Zhong Wuyan! She brought harm to me! Why could she still keep her face while mine is gone? Your face too! Give my face back to me! Give me your face!


    Inside the mirror, Xia Yingchun was screaming and hissing madly.

 Chapter 440: Beauty and Ugliness

    Chapter 440: Beauty and Ugliness


    The girl seemed to be controlled by the woman in the mirror. She widened her eyes and bared her teeth at us.


    Li Mazi rolled his sleeves up. Let me handle this little girl first


    I shook my head. The mirror is the key. What if it escapes while were dealing with the girl? That would be really troublesome.


    Li Mazi asked me with unease, What should we do then?


    I thought for a moment, and an idea shed in my mind. Do you still have your pocket mirror with you?


    Of course, Li Mazi answered. Im a man who cares about his appearance. I have to be ready to fix my hair anytime, anywhere.


    He took out his pocket mirror while he spoke.


    I told Li Mazi and Zhao Wuyang, You two grab a hold of the girl. Im going to deal with the mirror.


    Li Mazi nodded and ran toward the little girl together with Zhao Wuyang.


    The girl raised the mirror to fend them off. I took this chance to aim Li Mazis pocket mirror at the bronze mirror.


    The picture in the bronze mirror was reflected in the pocket mirror. Xia Yingchun saw herself in the mirror. Her own image was a shock to her.


    She screamed and said, Who Who is that! Its not me! Its not me!


    The bronze mirror stopped shining and became dark. Xia Yingchun was scared away by her own image.


    Zhao Wuyang carried the little girl on his back, while Li Mazi and I carried the bronze mirror as we walked back to Wuyan Vige. We arrived at dawn, and everybody was exhausted after running around throughout the night.


    However, we had to deal with the mirror as soon as possible.


    I asked the Vige Elder, Prepare an altar and ask your people to make four wooden dummies and four mud dummies. The uglier the better.


    The Vige Elder hurried to notify the local folks to prepare the items. Afterwards, I secretly pulled him aside to mutter something in his ear. The Vige Elder didnt agree at first, but I didnt relent. He was still reluctant, but he eventually gave me a nod.


    The sacrificial altar was set up in Uncle Wangs courtyard.


    Noon time was the time when the sun had the strongest Yang energy. I ced the bronze mirror on the altar, carefully wrapped in red fabric.


    In addition to the chicken, duck, pork, and fish we used as offerings, there were four wooden dummies and four mud dummies on the altar. They were all disgustingly ugly.


    I decided to help Xia Yingchun ascend, but I wasnt going to lead the ceremony. Xiao Mei, the Vige Elders daughter, would do the honors.


    Everyone was shocked and surprised when Xiao Mei appeared in Uncle Wangs house.


    Oh my God, is that Xiao Mei? She was a beautiful little girl. How could she be like this?


    How could they let an ugly girl like here out here? She will scare people!


    The Vige Elder blushed, seemingly embarrassed as he led Xiao Mei to me.


    Although Xiao Mei was a little dull, she paid close attention to everything I said. In the beginning, she offered three tumblers of rice wine, then poured the chicken blood around the altar.


    The wrapped bronze mirror started to vibrate. All the things on the altar were shaking and nging.


    The people present in the courtyard quieted down as they watched the scene in amazement!


    I walked behind the mirror, quickly pulling the red fabric away. The mirror reflected a dazzling light while under the scorching sun.


    The mirror quieted down when it reflected Xiao Meis skinned face. Xiao Mei was flustered. She pointed at her image in the mirror and couldnt believe her eyes.


    She didnt know she had turned into this after not having looked at her reflection for years. She used to be a lovely girl.


    Since she didnt talk, she waved her hands worriedly.


    The Vige Elder cried, then moved closer and hugged his daughter. Heforted her and supported her back. Its okay, my good girl. Dont be scared. Im right here. Fathers here. Ill always be here for you!


    Xiao Mei cried.


    The vigers were saddened by this exchange.


    I took one step forward, raising my voice. What happened to Xiao Mei is very unfortunate. Today, she could have chosen not toe here, but she came! She does this for the welfare of the entire Wuyan Vige. She came to help the soul in the mirror to ascend! I hope that nobody shuns her because of her appearance. Shes still the same girl, your lovely Xiao Mei.


    As they listened, some soft-hearted aunties began to cry. Shes Xiao Mei, the little girl I saw grow up


    Vige Elder, please dont hide Xiao Mei in the room anymore. Just let her go out. Perhaps she will talk again!


    The vigers mored, showing their affection toward the Vige Elder and his daughter Xiao Mei. The father and daughter hugged each other, crying.


    I turned and checked the bronze mirror.


    I wanted to tell Xia Yingchun that although there is darkness, cruelty, and degeneration in this world, we can also find hope, love, and a future


    <em>You cant just skin peoples faces because your face had such a fate!</em>


    <em>Even if you peeled off Xiao Meis face, she still has the people who love her and care about her.</em>


    <em>You are not Xiao Mei, and Xiao Mei isnt you.</em>


    <em>What you had to go through will never happen to Xiao Mei!</em>


    Perhaps Xia Yingchun was touched by this.


    Right before everyones eyes, the bright bronze mirror slowly turned ck.


    It became dull with a patinayer, unable to reflect light anymore.


    I knew she had left


    At night time, everyone in Wuyan Vige gathered at Uncle Wangs house. They prepared a few tables to drink and cheer. The asion looked even more joyous than a wedding.


    The resentful atmosphere that pervaded over Wuyan Vige had disappeared.


    Perhaps I drank too much that evening as I only woke up at around noon the next day. I shook Li Mazi to wake him up, but Zhao Wuyang was nowhere to be seen; his bag had also disappeared. I went out to ask around, and they told me that he had left early this morning, alone.


    He told Uncle Wang that he wanted to travel and admire the sights around the area. Afterward, he would return to his city to work.


    I felt happy for him. That fe had finally gained some courage. He could travel alone now.


    The madwoman didnt seem pleased when Li Mazi and I were about to leave. She looked at Li Mazi and made some sounds, but we couldnt figure out what she was trying to say.


    Li Mazi flinched as he thought of something. He then gave her his pocket mirror.


    Uncle Wang and the Vige Elder took us to the vige entrance. I was a little worried, so I had to tell them, Just bury that mirror back in the tomb. Later, at various special holidays, you have to send some people to burn incense and take offerings to show your respect to her.


    The Vige Elder nodded and thanked me. We will. Thank you.


    I resumed my dull life once I returned to the city. One night, I found a horroric. It was the story of a mirror that skinned peoples faces. The story was bizarre and bloody, but the drawings werent really scary.


    I read theic to the end and found that Zhang Qinghai was the author.


    I was surprised that the man had drawn this shortic. He had published it on NetEasesic section.


    Theic had manyments.


    Some people said that they had grown up ugly, so they especially hated the people who had been born beautiful.


    Some said that modern stic surgery was really developed. If you didnt like your face, you could just go to South Korea to get a new look.


    However, to me, ones appearance was a gift.


    Whether one was beautiful or ugly, the most important thing was to live happily.


    Living a happy life was more important than anything else.


    If you paid too much attention to your beauty, youd miss out on a lot of fun in this life.


    I stretched my back as I looked at the glow in the sky, right at the break of dawn. A new day had arrived!

 Chapter 441: Paranormal Activities in the Museum

    Chapter 441: Paranormal Activities in the Museum


    The incident in Wuyan Vige had ended. For a long time afterward, Li Mazi hadnt brought any dangerous business to me, nor did the Longquan Vis peoplee to trouble me. My life seemed to have quieted down.


    Besides spending quality time with Yin Xinyue, I drank some liquor with Li Mazi every day and listened to his babbles.


    There were many moments where I had thought it would be nice to live like this. However, I was an otherworldly merchant, and my life was not predestined to always be calm.


    One day, I had opened a Baijiu blue bottle and was drinking with Li Mazi when Chuyi came in all of a sudden. He looked tired and worn out.


    My heart sank, and I hurried to pull him into the shop. Hey, how are you? Did you get hurt?


    With his personality, I was sure he didnte for a casual visit.


    Im okay.


    Chuyi received a ss of water from Li Mazi. He took a sip then said coldly, Im here to ask for your help.


    It seems Im going to the battlefield again! Li Mazi patted his thigh and asked with a grin, Could you tell me in advance how much well earn from this case?


    I pped his head, then asked, Chuyi, what happened?


    If Chuyi came to me, it would be something rted to otherworldly items. However, I didnt understand why he didnt solve it himself. Why did he need my help? There was something strange here.


    Chuyi stared at Li Mazi and answered, This time, its purely a favor for me. No payment. Moreover, its going to be a dangerous task. He then handed me a piece of paper.


    I unfolded the paper. It had an address and someones phone number.


    I took a nce at the information and carefully folded the piece of paper. I waited for Chuyi to tell me the details.


    Our client this time is a national entity, the Shenyang Museum, said Chuyi. When the security guards patrolled at night, they heard footsteps from the exhibition hall. They thought there were some intruders, but as soon as they went there, the sound of footsteps disappeared. At first, they didnt pay much attention to it. However, themotion eventually grew louder. From time to time, theyd even hear a man crying.


    He continued, The curator noticed that the situation wasnt simple. He hired a few professionally trained guards and had them hide behind the ss counter of the exhibition hall. He wanted to see who was creating trouble at night time. But after one night, all those security guards lost their minds and died one after another. From that night onward, no guard has dared to stay on night duty. The curator was helpless, and he had to use his connections to reach me


    When Chuyi told me the details, his eyes showed aplex expression. I knew this case wasnt simple.


    ording to what he had just told me, I concluded that there the paranormal activities were caused by an otherworldly item. There shouldnt be any ghosts there.


    Since the Shenyang Museum used to be a part of the Manchurian Qings imperial pce, it had an imperial aura that could scare away wandering ghosts. The strangemotion in the museum could be caused by the antiques stored there. After a long time of staying idle, perhaps one of them had be an otherworldly item.


    Its no wonder you didnt want to take this mission. No payment, and its dangerous. Li Mazi cocked his head to one side and assessed Chuyi. Little Brother Zhang, this case wont earn us anything. No one will pay for the train tickets, either. I dont think Im going to join in this time.


    I ignored Li Mazi. Chuyi, why do you want my help in this case?


    I know whats causing the problem there. However, I cant put my hands on this. Its not an evil item, and its doing what it thinks to be right. If you have a chance, please show mercy to that otherworldly item. When Chuyi said this, he took in a deep breath.


    I was puzzled. Otherworldly merchants were the nemeses of otherworldly items, but they could still be killed if the item was too powerful.


    If I showed mercy to that otherworldly item, would it show mercy to me too?


    That was why I didnt answer and gave Chuyi a skeptical look.


    All right Just do what you need to do! As long as you dont vite your principles, itll be fine.


    After talking, Chuyi left.


    I rushed to the door and shouted, Dont worry. Ill ept this case!


    Chuyi halted for a moment. Then, he disappeared from my sight without turning his head around to see me. After looking at his tired, lonesome figure, I suddenly felt that he wasnt that invincible. He also had things he didnt want to face.


    But if he had entrusted this case to me, did he think that I was the only one he could trust it with?


    I sighed and took out the paper Chuyi handed to me. I just hoped that I could smoothly solve this otherworldly item case so that Chuyi wouldnt have to worry anymore.


    Little Brother Zhang, are you going to ept this case?


    Li Mazi snatched the piece of paper from me and mumbled discontentedly, Its not that I dont want to help my friend. However, were supposed to fight with our lives on the line without earning anything...


    I didnt know why, but my me of anger burst when Li Mazi said that. I turned and shouted at him, Do you only have freaking money on your mind? Chuyi has saved your life several times. How could you look at his face and ask for money?


    I proceeded to ignore him. Then, with a dark face, I called Yin Xinyue and told her that I was going to solve another otherworldly item case. These days, she was with the filming crew in the studio, shooting a drama.


    Can you not go? Yin Xinyue asked with a soft tone. Since I didnt answer, she understood my will and asked me to be careful. Then, we hung up.


    I didnt know why, but I didnt feel strong enthusiasm for new otherworldly items anymore. Yin Xinyue somewhat lost her excitement, too. She didnt ask to join the trip as she didnt want to take such risks anymore. To me, we hadnt changed that much. We just became more responsible after we got engaged.


    For this sort of matter, I knew that I shouldnt bete. I decided to prepare my tools and was prepared to leave. As part of my routine, I picked up my phone and was about to call Li Mazi to drive his car to the shop and fetch me.


    But then, I remembered his annoying face and shook my head, heading to the garage to get my car. I would drive there myself. However, Iter saw Li Mazi standing at the intersection, waving at me.


    He was holding a big bag. At first nce, I knew he had prepared all the stuff.


    I smiled then pulled my car in front of him. With a cold face, I asked, What are you doing here?


    I just figured out that Im shamelessly in love with you Li Maziughed and pulled the door of the passenger seat open, hurling himself into the seat.


    I snorted, Yeah, right. Youre indeed shameless.


    He didnt mind me and just smiled and joked to earn my favor.


    Along the way, I didnt respond to him. When we arrived in Shenyang, he suddenly waved his fingers in front of my eyes. Little Brother Zhang, are you still mad at me?


    Ill forgive you just this once. After I said that, I couldnt hold in myughter anymore. Li Mazi was the sort of man who was cowardly, lustful, and always afraid of trouble. However, he was a great friend when you needed him. Not to mention, he was also loyal.


    It was evening. We met our contact in a small restaurant near the museum.


    He was called Yu Hua and was around forty or fifty years old. He was the manager of the museum.


    Yu Hua had a square jawline and carried a small crocodile leather bag under his arm. At first look, he looked upright and honest.


    After greeting us, he told us about the situation at the museum. He didnt look like he despised us for being young. Li Mazi felt much better with the way he treated us.


    I had thought about the n on the way here. I wanted to go to the museum directly at night time to check the situation. However, Yu Hua told us that not all of the five security guards they had arranged on duty that night had died. There was one survivor.


    Oh, where is he now? I asked in a hurried voice. If we could get some clues from the security guy, it would be helpful to the case.


    Hes lost his mind. His family has taken him back to his hometown to recover. Given the time, he should be about to die


    When he came to this part, Yu Hua scanned the small restaurant and lowered his voice. Mr. Zhang, I need to tell you something. After the four security guards became crazy, they didnt die at the same time. Their deaths were one month apart. And, the ways they died were also strange. One sharpened a toothbrush andmitted suicide with it. Another used a pair of scissors to open his tummy. Moreover, they all died on the tenth day of the month.


    What?


    After listening to him, I recognized that thest security guard was in grave danger. I instinctively took out my phone to check. Today was the tenth day of the month! Mr. Yu, do you know where that guard lives?


    Yeah, I do. He lives in a vige in the countryside area outside of Shenyang.


    Take me to his house, now! I didnt have time to exin and pulled Yu Hua into my car.


    It was past twilight now. We had just a few hours before the next day. If we went there on time, perhaps we could save that guard. Otherwise, he would die.


    Yu Hua appeared to be a man who wasnt afraid of hardship. He continuously showed me the way. My impression of him became better.


    It was our luck that Yu Hua was familiar with the streets in Shenyang. I stepped on the elerator, and at around 9:00 PM, we arrived at Sheshangou Vige.


    Since the vige was by the foothills, the route was extremely bumpy. I had to park my car at the vige entrance and walked into the vige with Yu Hua and Li Mazi.


    In the mountainous area, the vigers often went to bed early. Most of the houses here had their lights off, and only a small grocery store was still open. When we arrived there, the shopkeeper was putting the instant noodles away.


    When the shopkeeper saw us, she grew vignt. What are you doing here?


    Li Mazi used his silver tongue to buy two packs of cigarettes and asked the shopkeeper for the security guards address.


    When we were about to leave, the shopkeeper muttered, Whats the point ofing here when hes dead already?


    What? The security guy is dead?


    I hastily turned and asked the woman, When did he die?


    She was scared and backed off. He had just passed away this morning.


    Then, she quickly closed her grocery store.


    Mr. Zhang, should we go there? asked Yu Hua anxiously, gulping his saliva. He was just a normal man, afraid of a situation that involved the dead, which was considered to bring bad luck.


    Of course! Were already here, so we need to take a look.


    My voice was strong, but my heart wasnt equally firm. The only survivor was dead. I was afraid that the trip had been in vain this time.


    When we walked deeper into the vige, we found a road filled with ashes and paper money. It seemed the shopkeeper had told the truth. However, why did they deliver the coffin as soon as the deceased passed away? Themon practice in Northeastern regions was that the family would keep the deceased in the house for three days so that friends and rtives could pay the deceased thest visit before they took the coffin away.


    Was there more to his death?

 Chapter 442: Feigning Death

    Chapter 442: Feigning Death


    After thinking, I said to Li Mazi, Were not going to the security guards house. Were going to take a look at his grave first.


    How can we know where it is? asked Li Mazi.


    Yu Hua had a wry smile. We can follow the trail of paper money, I guess.


    I gave him a thumbs-up. It was a pretty good idea.


    The three of us followed the ashes and pieces of paper on the ground, easily reaching the cemetery of the vige. Like most cemeteries in the countryside, Sheshengou Viges cemetery was a grassy graveyard. There were graves here and there, covered in tall grass. However, there was no newly buried grave.


    Was he not buried here?


    Li Mazi smacked his tongue. But the ashes and papers lead to this ce.


    I didnt mind him and carefully observed the graveyard. I then found that not only did this ce have no new graves, but it also had huge resentful energy. The Sirius Whip in my hand was vibrating. It was a sign that arge number of ghosts were in the area!


    I quickly told Li Mazi and Yu Hua to return to the vige. I didnt want to mess with a bunch of wandering ghosts before I could deal with the main issue.


    As we walked back to the vige, I saw a man walking toward us. He seemed headed to go to the graveyard since this path only led there.


    I greeted him and asked if he knew where the vigers had buried the man who had passed away in the morning.


    The man didnt even lift his head. He kept his head low and pointed in the direction of the graveyard. Then, he walked past me and left.


    He probably meant to say that the security guard was buried in the graveyard. But why couldn''t we find him?


    The way the man was walking was strange. His body gently glided, just as if his soul was gone. I felt more vignt toward the people here. I was about to turn to Li Mazi and Yu Hua and tell them that we should pass the night in this vige as I wanted to ask the folks here for more information in the morning.


    However, when I turned around, I saw Yu Hua gawking at something. His eyes bulged as he looked at the man.


    I suddenly had a bad premonition and asked, Whats wrong?


    Yu Hua shivered. He... Hes the security guard.


    Whats going on here? Li Mazi was also shocked.


    I shook my head to signal at Li Mazi not to talk. Then, I turned to Yu Hua. Although that man looks strange, hes a living person. Did you mistake him for someone else?


    Impossible. Thats definitely him!


    Yu Hua confirmed it. He even showed me the security guards picture on his phone.


    Although I didnt see the mans face, I also confirmed that he was the security guard. It was because of his prominent hawk nose that I could recognize him.


    Maybe he knew that he was about to die and faked his death to avoid this deadly tribtion, said Li Mazi in a lowered voice.


    Its possible. Lets follow him, I said.


    Yu Hua was scared but nodded.


    At this moment, the entire mountainous vige was covered by dark clouds. Cold winds blew above our heads, which brought waves of chilling air.


    The three of us silently followed the security guard. We wanted to see what he was up to. It seemed he had noticed that we were after him, or perhaps he knew since the beginning. He was walking at a normal pace. When he reached the corner, he stopped. It seemed he was waiting for us.


    It seems he wants to tell us something, said Yu Hua sternly as he watched the man.


    I guess so. I sped up to catch up with him as we didnt need to hide anymore. However, when I quickened my pace, the security guy suddenly turned and ran.


    Soon, he disappeared into the darkness.


    Li Mazi boldly dashed forward to chase after him, but I pulled him back. Dont you feel that something is wrong?


    What is it? asked Li Mazi.


    I pointed at the surroundings. Do you know where we are?


    Li Mazi looked around and gawked in shock. Hey, werent we heading toward the graveyard? Why are there no graves here? All I see is grass.


    Inadvertently, we were led to a ce we had never been to before. Our surroundings were unfamiliar.


    We shouldnt walk any further. Lets go back.


    I was a little panicked and asked the team to leave. Whatever reasons the security guard had, it wouldnt be anything nice as he had ditched us in a ce like this! Perhaps he had purposely waited to lead us here.


    On the way back, I kept checking our surroundings. When I recognized the small path we had walked on, I heaved a sigh of relief.


    We headed toward the vige, and the moment we reached the entrance, Li Mazi suddenly pulled me and pointed suspiciously at a big tree not far from us. Little Brother Zhang, look. Whats that?


    I turned to see and found a shaking dark shadow. It seemed someone was hiding behind the tree.


    Whos there?!


    I called loudly a few times. However, no one answered. The shadow seemed to shake harder.


    It was already past midnight. If someone was hiding there, it certainly wouldnt be a person with good intentions. With that thought, I felt braver and walked forward to see. It was the shopkeeper from the grocery store. She was squatting sneakily behind the tree.


    As she was busted, she grimaced. She turned and rushed back to her grocery store. Yu Hua and Li Mazi wanted to chase after her, but I stopped them.


    If she doesnt want to talk to us, we should leave!


    I didnt mind their questioning and surprised looks. I started my car engine and deliberately passed by her shop before I drove out of Sheshangou Vige.


    After we had left the vige, I stopped the car and turned off the engine.


    What did you find? asked Li Mazi.


    That shopkeeper is hiding something! If we didnt pretend to leave, we wouldnt have been able to collect any information.


    I handed Li Mazi the key and asked him to return to the city and buy some sea salt, a rooster, some big eels, and a few ancient copper locks.


    Li Mazi was experienced with the stuff we often used to invite or expel evil spirits. He took the key and left with Yu Hua.


    When I drove out of the vige earlier, I had carefully observed the path that led to the vige.


    Since I was afraid that I would be busted on my way back, I chose a small trail along the mountain nk to get to the vige. While I was walking, I felt that someone was following me. However, that feeling disappeared when I turned around.


    I sighed and thought that my courage had shrunk since I hadnt had a thrilling case for quite a long time. Anyway, I had the Sirius Whip with me. If something dangerous wasing, it would alert me.


    When I entered the vige and approached the womans grocery store again, I saw that the light was still on. I was encouraged by this. I tiptoed to her store and leaned against the wall.


    Thanks to the light, I saw two people in the shop. One was the shopkeeper herself, and the other was the security guard!


    Since I knew the security guard was a living man, I didnt worry much. I immediately banged on their door. When the woman impatiently opened the door, I didnt say a word to her and immediately slid into the house to search for the security guard. I wanted to know what he was up to.


    However, I found that the room was empty. The security guard was nowhere to be seen.


    What the heck do you want?


    The shopkeeper approached me. At this moment, she was wearing a coat and exuded the aura of a mature woman. It was midnight and this woman was in the room with the security guard, alone. I suspected they had an affair.


    You have a good rtionship with Song Zhong, right? Im sure you dont want him to die. I smiled.


    Song Zhong was the security guards name. I had read his profile before we came here.


    I dont know what youre talking about.


    The womans eyes sparkled, but her mouth remained shut. I checked the time, and it was close to midnight. If I couldnt find Song Zhong before the day was over, he would die. However, I couldnt just search around the womans house. I felt worried.


    Get out of here! Now! If you dont, Im going to call people!


    Seeing me hesitate, the woman braced her hands at her hips and scolded me. Then, she grabbed a broomstick and hit me with it.


    However, since she had kept her voice low, I knew that she was having an affair with Song Zhong.


    If Im not wrong, Song Zhong pretended to die. The other folks in this vige dont know that, right? I sneered, fixing my gaze at her eyes.


    The womans spirit subsided. Im a widow. If this rumor spreads out, I wont be able to show my face around anymore.


    She thought that I was a bad guy, so I patiently exined to her why I hade here.


    In the end, she sighed and told me the story.


    Song Zhong had lost his mind, but it wasnt permanent. Every day, he would have his sanity returned to him for a few hours. Since his co-workers had died one by one, Song Zhong understood that they were taken away by a ghost. While he was still sane, he had asked his family to arrange a funeral for him.


    Song Zhong thought that if he faked his death, that thing would leave him alone. However, we had busted his n.


    Why did Song Zhong go to the graveyard? And why did you hide behind the tree to watch us? I asked the shopkeeper.

 Chapter 443: Running Into the Spirit

    Chapter 443: Running Into the Spirit


    He suddenly got mad and told me that he had to go home no matter what. I couldnt stop him, so I decided to follow him. I didnt expect that he would go in the direction of the graveyard. I didnt dare to follow him further, but I was scared that something bad would happen to him. I had to wait for him at the vige entrance. You saw me there.


    Then, the woman got on her knees and gave me several kowtows. She asked me to save Song Zhong.


    It seemed she had recognized that faking death wouldnt work.


    Maam, please get up. You have to call Song Zhong out here. I have to see him so I can know how to save him, I told her.


    Yes, yes. Right


    The woman agreed. She walked to a closet and called, Old Song,e out here. Weve got a master here that can help you!


    She pulled the closet doors. However, she screamed when she saw the scene inside the closet.


    I rushed past her and saw a big hole in the wall behind the closet. There was a vast field outside.


    Maam, whats going on?


    The woman couldnt answer me.


    Speak quickly! Hes possessed by a ghost. If you are slow, even an immortal cant help him!


    My voice grew colder since I had already felt a weak wisp of Yin energy in the closet. I knew Song Zhong didnt just disappear by himself. He was controlled by a departed soul.


    The woman saw that I was mad and blushed. She told me the truth.


    This closet was the gateway for their affair. Every night, Song Zhong could get into her house through the hole behind this closet. It was their way of hiding their affair from everyone. However, tonight, it turned out to be a hindrance.


    I looked at her and didnt know what to say. I walked into the closet to search for the man.


    The shopkeeper followed me. I didnt mind her and took out mypass to capture the wisps of Yin energy. I followed the trail, which led me to the small path that led to the graveyard.


    Damn it!


    I cursed and entered the graveyard. However, the Yin energy around me was growing thicker, and the hand of thepass started spinning fast.


    I checked the surroundings one more time and found that I was no longer in the graveyard. My surroundings were full of lushly grown grass. As I had experienced this trick once before, I had paid attention on my way here. I was sure I didnt take the wrong path.


    <em>Is it an illusion?</em> I waved the Sirius Whip. The whip moved around, but the surroundings didnt change.


    Then, I heard footsteps behind me. The shopkeeper called, Master! Master! Where are you?


    Her voice was loud and clear. She wasnt more than twenty meters away from me. How could she not see me?


    I turned around but didnt see the shopkeeper. However, her voice zoomed closer then disappeared. It seemed she had walked past me without me seeing her.


    I suddenly recognized the problem. I bit my tongue and spat blood on the Sirius Whip. I read the Big Dipper Sirius Spell andshed it in every direction. The surroundings changed immediately, and the familiar scene reappeared.


    I looked and saw a shadow limping ahead of me. It was the shopkeeper.


    Not far from the woman was the dark graveyard. Song Zhong was sitting there with his head held low. I didnt know what he was doing.


    Song Zhong was possessed. If the woman went near him, it wasnt different from asking for death.


    I cursed under my breath and rushed after her. Song Zhong seemed to notice my existence. He rose and reached out his hands to strangle the woman.


    Donte near! Or else, Ill kill her! With red eyes, he shouted at me.


    From his voice, I knew he was an old man who had experienced ups and downs. He wasnt Song Zhong.


    I carefully said, Please let her go. We can talk.


    I took two steps back and put down my Sirius Whip.


    The woman looked at Song Zhong and couldnt believe her eyes. She didnt know why her lover wanted to harm her.


    Dont be stupid. Hes not Song Zhong! I called the woman to prevent her from screaming.


    Then, I said to the man, Tell me! What do you want?


    Although I had confronted many departed souls and spirits in the past, this was the first time I had encountered a ghost that wanted to bargain with me.


    This old man doesnt like to harm people. Dont dip your hands in this. You still have time to leave.


    As he talked, Song Zhong didnt look at me. Instead, he looked at a grave behind him.


    I took the chance and slowly moved forward. I was prepared to rescue the shopkeeper.


    However, he was more vignt than I had thought. Before I could approach him, he turned and red at me. At the same time, his stranglehold on the womans neck became tighter.


    The shopkeepers face reddened as she couldnt breathe. She opened her mouth and stuck out her tongue. I didnt dare to stimte Song Zhong further. I backed off and told him that if he had knots in his heart, he could talk to me. Perhaps I could help him.


    I suddenly knew why Chuyi didnt want to put his hands in this. Although this departed soul had strong resentful energy, he still had a sane mind and did not want to harm innocent people.


    During his life, he must have been an honorable and righteous hero. But due to his unjustified death, he had be a resentful soul.


    I thought that my words could persuade him. After Song Zhong listened to me, heughed crazily and pointed at me. You stinky kid, dont y mind games with me. I dont want to harm innocent people. Dont force me!


    Senior, every life matters and is precious. You have a kind heart. Why wouldnt it be enough to forgive people?


    I caught his weakness and tried my best to talk him out of it. I wished that Li Mazi was here. With his silver-tongue, he could advise this departed soul better than me.


    After listening to me, Song Zhong was surprised. Tears rolled from the corners of his eyes. He looked at the dark sky and mumbled to himself, Haha, Ive been living for the sake of this country and our fellows my whole life. Who has forgiven me?


    If the spirit agreed to tell his story, it meant I would have a higher chance of helping him ascend.


    I didnt expect it to be this simple. I tried to calm my happy heart that was beating crazily. I stood still and looked at him with a poker face.


    Song Zhongs deep eyes seemed to see through me. He observed me and saw my indifferent eyes looking at him. After a while, he nodded.


    Right as he was about to open his mouth to talk, a figure suddenly appeared behind him and knocked him to the ground, which caused him to release the shopkeeper.


    Damn. I cursed under my breath. Since the spirit was attacked, he would be angry and take revenge on the people around him.


    Indeed, when Song Zhong fell to the ground, his eyes turned blood-red. He gritted his teeth and tried to strangle the woman again.


    The woman was petrified. She didnt know what to do.


    As things hade to this, I couldnt pretend anymore. Ished the Sirius Whip on Song Zhongs back.


    Song Zhong screamed and fell, rolling onto the high grass.


    I seized the chance and pulled the shopkeeper away. Then, I pushed her aside to a safe ce. The shadow that had ambushed Song Zhong stormed over and suppressed him.


    This fellow was wearing ck leather trousers and was hiding in a loose raincoat. He even wore a facemask. I guessed he didnt want to show his real face.


    The possessed Song Zhong had unimaginable strength. He howled and hurled the man in the raincoat away. Then, just like a tiger escaping its cage, he straddled and sat on the man wearing the raincoat, crazily punching him.


    I rushed forward to help the man get rid of Song Zhong.


    What are you doing there? Come and help us!


    I shouted at the baffled woman. She got a hold of herself and came to help us hold Song Zhongs legs.


    The three of us joined hands to tie Song Zhong up. Then, we brought him back to the womans shop and used an iron chain to tie him onto the bed.


    It was already past midnight. Song Zhong had dodged his deadly tribtion. As the spirit had left him, he fell fast asleep. I heaved a sigh of relief. Then, I remembered the man wearing the raincoat.


    Although his goodwill had messed up my n, he had helped us control Song Zhong. I wanted to thank him. However, he had left without a word.


    The shopkeeper made me a boiling cup of noodles and worriedly asked, Master, is Old Song all right now?

 Chapter 444: Song Zhongs Death

    Chapter 444: Song Zhong''s Death


    I shook my head. This is just the beginning. Weve provoked that spirit, and he wont stop until were dead! If we dont eradicate him, he will torture Song Zhong to death.


    But you dont need to be too worried. Im here to help.


    I was afraid that the shopkeeper would be scared, so I added that part. The woman thanked me repeatedly. She sat on the bed and anxiously wiped Song Zhongs dirty face.


    As I ate the noodles, I assessed the woman. She had loving eyes and was good-looking.


    A momentter, she lifted her head and found me watching her. She blushed. I felt somewhat embarrassed, so I asked, Whats the rtionship between you and Song Zhong?


    I was just a normal person, and I liked to gossip.


    What kind of rtionship could it be? Discarded shoes. The woman lit up a cigarette and puffed it as she talked to me.


    It turned out that they had been a couple since they were pretty young. They were in love back then. However, when it came to marriage, the shopkeepers father was afraid that Song Zhongs family was too poor. He forced her to get engaged to the Vige Elders son. Later on, Song Zhong married a woman he didnt love.


    After the shopkeepers husband died, their love burned again from the ashes.


    I sighed as I listened to their story. Like they say, love will always find a way.


    While Song Zhong was experiencing this tribtion, it wasnt his wife who was on his side but his old lover.


    I noticed that the woman seemed to hate herte husband a lot. She didnt even mention how he died. There seemed to be more to it, but I didnt ask.


    After the woman told me her story, she asked about mine.


    Oh me? Im just a merchant. I had a wry smile and told her about the love story between Yin Xinyue and me.


    Perhaps the womans love had affected me. I suddenly realized that I had never missed Yin Xinyue as much as I did at this moment.


    While we watched over Song Zhong, we chatted to pass the time. Song Zhong didnt wake up, nor did he turn crazy; he continued to sleep. When it was past midnight, Li Mazi called and told me that he had bought enough items. He asked where I was.


    I had been in the room for quite a long time, so I wanted some fresh air. I decided to walk to the vige entrance to wait for Li Mazi.


    When he heard that I was in the womans shop after midnight, heughed despicably. Little Brother Zhang, how does a mature woman taste?


    Enough of your nonsense. I pped his nape. Did you buy all the things?


    Li Mazi gestured an OK. I nodded in satisfaction.


    However, I noticed that he hade alone.


    Yu Hua didnte with you? I was puzzled.


    No. He left as soon as we reached the city. He was afraid that I would force him to follow me around. Li Mazi put on a despising face.


    Oh, hes just an ordinary man. He couldnt bear the fear. Its okay.


    Li Mazi and I chatted as we walked to the vige. Since I had encountered the spirit, I was no longer scared. I was in a better mood, so I slowed down and enjoyed the clear and refreshing night under the bright moonlight.


    While we were still enjoying the atmosphere, a sudden screech broke the silent night. The noise came from the womans house.


    Damn it!


    I ran fast and thought that the spirit had possessed Song Zhong again. However, when I reached the grocery store, I smelled blood. I immediately had a horrible premonition.


    Master! Master, you came!


    When the woman saw me, she burst out in a heart-breaking cry. I quickly ran past her, heading to the bed.


    Song Zhong had been beheaded.


    Red blood soaked the entire bed. His blood hadnt coagted yet and was still dripping, forming a puddle on the ground.


    Holy moly! Li Mazi screamed and went to the corner.


    I pulled myself together. What happened?


    I dont know. After you went out, I didnt think that he would wake up, so I took the time to go to the bathroom. When I came back, I saw him like this


    Then, the woman started shivering. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head, and she fainted. Li Mazi hurried to support her, taking the chance to touch her breast.


    I frowned and scanned the room. I didnt see any trace of Yin energy in the room. It seemed Song Zhong was beheaded by a living person! With this thought, I went to the closet and opened it. I saw blood inside the closet.


    After Li Mazi was finished with his stealthy touching, he came over and looked at the hole in the closet.


    Should we go after the murderer? asked Li Mazi.


    Theres no use now. Since Song Zhong has died, we lost our only clue. We have to go to the museum.


    I sighed. The feeling of having failed arose in my heart. <em>If Chuyi were here, perhaps Song Zhong wouldnt have died!</em>


    <em>Had I been more careful and didnt leave to see Li Mazi, this man might still be alive.</em>


    I didnt kill him directly, but he had died because of me.


    This is fate. People who have to die cant survive, no matter how much effort we exert. This is like what happened to my Chuchu! Li Mazi patted my shoulder and told me not to me myself.


    I nodded. I could onlyfort myself that way. However, as Li Mazi had just mentioned Chuchu, it meant that he had recovered and walked out of that painful part of his life. I felt happy for him.


    As Song Zhong was dead, we didnt need to stay here. However, after considering the rtionship between the shopkeeper and Song Zhong, I decided to stay to help her. Otherwise, she would be sued. Song Zhongs family would take revenge on her!


    It was past midnight, but I couldnt fall asleep. I dialed Chuyis number and decided to try my luck. Unexpectedly, the line went through. In a cold voice, Chuyi asked, Did you encounter trouble?


    I briefed him about the situation. Although I had epted many deals with otherworldly items in the past, it was the first time a man had died before I could even see the otherworldly item.


    Youre going in the wrong direction


    Chuyi kept silent for a while before he told me that.


    What do you mean?


    He asked coldly, Did you confirm that the deaths of the five security guards were rted to the otherworldly item?


    I was bewildered and finally saw the light. Song Zhong wasnt killed by the spirit. He was murdered by a living person. Moreover, the murderer could have been that mysterious man in the raincoat.


    Otherwise, why would he have offended the spirit at the critical moment? If so, the other four security guards were possibly killed by the same person.


    After I hung up the call, I pulled Li Mazi, who was sleeping soundly. Do you know where Yu Hua went?


    I dont know. When we reached Shenyang, he called a cab to go home.


    Li Mazi looked at me in puzzlement. Little Brother Zhang, are you suspecting him?


    Come with me!


    I pulled him and ran to the vige entrance. I shone the shlight on the ground. Indeed, apart from our cars tire prints on the ground, I found another set of tire prints.


    Oh shoot, is this from the taxi Yu Hua took? Li Mazi squatted to observe the tire prints.


    I wore a dark face. Theres no need to check it. No one else woulde here.


    Who woulde to this little vige at midnight? Moreover, it was right at the moment the shopkeeper and I went to the graveyard.


    I was almost sure that Yu Hua was the man wearing the raincoat. Otherwise, there was no reason for him to keep his mouth shut the entire time. That was why he just waved his hands tomunicate with me.


    Li Mazi cursed, That little bastard! Dont let me meet him again. Otherwise, I will hit him until he poops his pants!


    Dont be impulsive. Since it hase to this, we have to use Yu Hua. Its good that weve busted him. He doesnt know that we know about his deeds.


    We would solve whatever came to us!


    I know, but Im still mad. She was a half-widow earlier, but shes be aplete widow now Li Mazi fumed.


    I found it amusing. Li Mazi was angry, and it wasnt because of a dead man but because he felt sorry for that woman.


    But it matched his personality well.


    When the shopkeeper woke up the next morning, I asked her about Song Zhongs fake death. Who else knew about it? Wheres his grave?


    Song Zhong arranged a real funeral for himself to avoid this tribtion. Everyone in the vige thought that he had died. Only his family and I knew that he was pretending. And since it was a fake death, we didnt dig a grave for him. The shopkeeper had red, swollen eyes.


    I couldnt help but frown. If Song Zhongs wife saw his dead body, she would create a scene. It wasnt something I could easily help with.


    Fortunately, the woman told me that Song Zhongs wife knew about their affair and that she had tacitly consented to their rtionship.


    This information would smoothen the incident then. Before it waspletely bright, I asked her to take us to Song Zhongs house.


    Song Zhongs wife was the typical sort of Northeastern married woman with arge build. When she heard that Song Zhong was beheaded, she started to cry.


    Although she was heartbroken, she didnt me us or say anything unpleasant to the shopkeeper.


    She kept crying and said that it was his fate


    Under her arrangements, the folks in the vige helped the family collect Song Zhongs body and buried him.


    In front of his grave, the two women supported each other, looking one more mournful than the other.


    I admired Song Zhong as he had captured the hearts of two women.


    As Song Zhong didnt have an intact body when he died, the vigers quickly left after they finished burying him.


    It was a custom in their vige. They thought that a person who had died without an intact body would have strong resentment. They thought that only the deceaseds family members should worship him at his grave.


    After everything was done, I apologized to the women, especially to Song Zhongs wife.


    She had a couple of children, and without a man in the house, her family would struggle.


    I offered her some money, but she resolutely denied. However, she begged me to find the murderer and stop him from hurting more people.


    Rest assured, maam!


    Facing such a brave woman, I bowed to her with sincerity from the bottom of my heart. Then, I left with Li Mazi.


    At this moment, the shopkeeper suddenly called me and said that she wanted to tell me something.


    When Old Song had his sanity back, he told me that it was a conspiracy! He told me that the thing that terrorized them was a list!


    What list? I asked.

 Chapter 445: The Famous Anti-Japanese General Yang Yuting

    Chapter 445: The Famous Anti-Japanese General Yang Yuting


    Wait a second. Im trying to remember. The shopkeeper tried hard to remember the details. Old Song told me that the list was terrifying. It could cause blood to ooze like tears.


    My intuition told me that the list she had mentioned was the otherworldly item. Do you know anything else?


    The woman shook her head.


    I knew the situation wasnt that simple. Otherwise, why did Yu Hua take the risk to murder the five security guards after they saw the paranormal activities?


    The only exnation was that they had discovered the secret of that list. With that thought, I said, Have you seen Song Zhongs cellphone?


    Five people were dead. Since they were co-workers, they must have contacted each other.


    Its in our house. Come with me, said Song Zhongs wife. Then, she led us to her house.


    When we reached the house, we saw Yu Hua walking back and forth in the yard.


    Li Mazi looked like he wanted to attack him, but I shot him a warning nce and asked him to show restraint. Then, I smiled at Yu Hua. Why are you here?


    I came here early this morning. I wanted to visit him but found out that Song Zhong had passed away. Yu Hua looked remorseful. He even let out a sigh.


    He didnt look like he was pretending. I was confused. Did I misunderstand him?


    Song Zhongs wife rushed out of her room with a pale face. She gasped for her breath. Master, his phone is gone!


    What?


    I put it in a drawer. I saw it this morning, but its not there anymore, said Song Zhongs wife.


    I looked at Yu Hua and frowned.


    After we left Sheshangou Vige, we went straight to the Shenyang Museum and checked in at a nearby hotel.


    Yu Hua told us that he had some work to do. After helping us check-in, he left.


    As soon as Yu Hua left, Li Mazi couldnt hold it in anymore. Little Brother Zhang, why are we still wasting time with him? You know he stole the phone!


    I know, but it wasnt the right time, I told him.


    Although we had confirmed that Yu Hua was the murderer, we also knew that there was an otherworldly item behind this. It would be more convenient for us to start our work at the museum if we had Yu Huas help.


    Li Mazi understood this so he stoppedining. At around noon, Yin Xinyue called me.


    The film shooting is done. Iming to see you.


    Honey, stay home and wait for me. Ille back soon.


    She didnt want to listen and insisted on seeing me. I had to ask Li Mazi to persuade her with his silver-tongue.


    Fine, but you have to call me every day to show that youre safe, she urged.


    I smiled. She reminded me of a little girl throwing a fit.


    As we didnt have anything to do in the afternoon, Li Mazi and I went to visit the Generals Mansion in Shenyang. During the Kuomintang period, the Generals Mansion was where the warlord Zhang Zuolin and his son, Zhang Xueliang, lived. For quite a long time, it was the core of the Northeast Army.


    This building was full of cultural relics from the Anti-Japanese War. Through those relics, we could see the will of the heroes during that period.


    While I was admiring the items, Li Mazi looked bored. These things arent valuable at all. Whats interesting about them?


    You only see money.


    I shot him a nce and ignored him. Then, I continued to enjoy the atmosphere of the building.


    Unexpectedly, this trip had given me a crucial clue!


    The most famous feature of the Generals Mansion was the Tiger Hall entrance, where two tiger specimens were kept. It was said that General Zhang Xueliang had caught them while hunting. Later, he held a banquet to celebrate his trophies. During this banquet, he shot two Generals who had joined the Japanese Army. They were Yang Yuting and Chang Yinghuai. This was why the young Generals name was spread throughout the entire Northeastern area.


    Li Mazi, who was bored earlier, became excited when he saw the two tiger specimens. He ignored the Do note close sign and shamelessly crossed the barrier to touch the tiger.


    I couldnt stop him on time, so he babbled on. I even joked that I would call the manager if he didnt stop.


    However, as soon as Li Mazi touched one of the tigers, he backed off. His face turned serious.


    Whats going on? Scared? I teased him as I thought he was afraid of being fined.


    Li Mazi waved his hand. Little Brother Zhang, somethings strange here. The area around that tiger specimen is really cold. It feels like the inside of a refrigerator. I have goosebumps although I only stood there for a few seconds.


    After listening to Li Mazi, I couldnt help but frown. Are you speaking the truth?


    As it was broad daylight, if this was the only ce in the entire mansion that was chilled-to-the-bone, there was a problem.


    After Li Mazi confirmed it, I didnt mind the rules and crossed the barrier as well.


    Sure enough, it was like what he had said. When I approached the tiger, the temperature dropped. The further I walked, the colder it was. It felt like I was in the middle of a bitter winter.


    Moreover, the cold air carried strong resentful energy!


    If there was resentful energy here, it could only belong to Yang Yuting and Chang Yinghuai!


    I had read many historical books before. I knew that Yang and Chang were two hard-working, patriotic generals. Although they were a little odd, they would never betray their country and work for the Japanese Army, even if they had to give up their life. At that time, Zhang Xueliang was hoodwinked by the Japanese, which resulted in the deaths of the two generals.


    As the two had been murdered unjustly, their souls couldnt rest in peace. However, I didnt want to step into these murky waters.


    But right as I was about to leave, I found one more thingthe resentful energy in this ce was simr to the one from the spirit that had possessed Song Zhong!


    <em>Is the otherworldly item this time rted to the famous General Yang Yuting?</em>


    With that thought, I couldnt help but shiver. However, it wasnt that I was afraid of him, but rather because I admired him.


    I thought about the conversation from the graveyard. He said that he had lived his entire life serving his country and his people. From the lonely feeling in his eyes, I could conclude that the spirit I encounteredst time was Yang Yuting.


    In the end, I pretended that nothing happened and left the Tiger Hall. Along the way, Li Mazi asked, Why did you just leave?


    At first, I was toozy to mind him. However, I couldnt endure his pestering and answered him seriously, Thats a national hero who fought the Japanese army and pledged not to yield. Should I take action against him? What do you say?


    Yeah, he was a true hero. Li Mazi nodded and pretended that he understood my point.


    I sighed deeply.


    Why are you sighing?


    Nothing. I suddenly felt like it. I shook my head.


    Now I understood Chuyis mental struggle. He didnt want to solve this case because he didnt want to deal with General Yang Yuting. He was also worried that I wouldnt ept the case, so he didnt tell me the details about the otherworldly item.


    However, I also respected and admired General Yang Yuting!


    That year, the invincible legion of the Fengtian clique was based in the Northeastern area. General Yang Yuting followed the Great General Zhang Zuolin and beat up countless Japanese soldiers. None of the Japanese soldiers dared to step into the Northeastern area.


    If Zhang Xueliang hadnt destroyed the Great Wall, killed the excellent general, and fled to the Northeastern area with his army, would the Japanese have started the aggressive war against China? Absolutely not.


    To otherworldly merchants, if they meddled with an item, they would have to care about it for the rest of their lives. I had never broken this rule before. But at this moment, I was a little shaken


    When I thought about my family, Yin Xinyue, and the helpless eyes of Song Zhongs wife and his children, and then the murderer, I felt more responsible.


    I couldnt give up!

 Chapter 446: The Weapons List

    Chapter 446: The Weapons List


    At around twilight, Yu Hua came to the hotel to fetch us. Li Mazi and I carried our belongings and went with him to the Shenyang Museum. It was the secondrgest museum in the country, inferior only to the Forbidden City in Beijing. This museum had a countless number of beautiful historical relics.


    ording to the normal routine, after it was time to clock off, there would be people on duty that stayed in the museum. No matter what, this ce was full of national treasures. However, to facilitate our work, Yu Hua had sent all the guards on duty out of the hall.


    For the time being, only the three of us would be in the exhibition hall.


    As the night fell, thest beam of light disappeared. The whole exhibition hall became pitch-ck and dead silent.


    Li Mazi inadvertently shivered. I knew he wasnt afraid of a spirit suddenlying out. He was afraid of Yu Hue, the murderer.


    I was also scared. I didn''t know why, but Yu Hua seemed to be hiding a dagger behind his kind smile.


    Whats going on? asked Yu Hua. He had noticed that Li Mazi and I were watching him.


    I shook my head. Nothing.


    Then, my gaze turned to the deserted hall.


    There were many items here, and some of them probably had a spirit. I asked the other two to not fiddle with their phones or talk. The three of us sat silently on the ground amidst the awkward atmosphere.


    At around midnight, a cold wind suddenly arose in the hall. The temperature dropped sharply.


    I stood up and shook Li Mazi and Yu Hua, who were drowsy. Here ites!


    The wind came and left quickly. Except for a wisp of blood scent in the air, it seemed nothing had happened.


    Yu Hua looked around and didnt find anything out of the ordinary. Whats going on?


    I gestured to him not to talk. Then, I focused on the exhibition hall.


    A momentter, we heard low footsteps in the room. It sounded as if someone was taking a walk.


    I held my breath and held onto the Sirius Whip tightly. I didnt even dare to blink.


    As the footsteps grew louder, I saw a yellow sheet of paper sway in the air.


    Every time we heard footsteps, the paper moved a little in the air. Although there was no wind, it could still hover.


    Little Brother Zhang, should we go over there? said Li Mazi in a lowered voice.


    I shook my head. Lets just watch for now.


    However, as soon as I spoke, the paper seemed to have discovered us. It started to fly toward us.


    I finally saw that the sheet of paper was a list. There were many words on it. However, since the hall was entirely dark, I couldnt recognize what was written on the list.


    Li Mazi cursed under his breath, turned on the shlight on his phone, and shined it right at the paper.


    Right after, we saw blood oozing from the list!


    At first, there were only some fine blood beads, but they soon stained the whole list. Eventually, drops of blood streamed down like tears, creating a small puddle on the ground.


    At the same time, Yang Yutings angry voice came from the paper. If youvee to seek death, I will fulfill your wish!


    After his voice faded, the blood on the list disappeared. The sheet of paper swayed a few times in midair then fell to the ground.


    I hurried over there and picked it up. It was a list of weapons. I searched through my memory, and I soon remembered the background of this list.


    Back then, the President of the Republic of China bought forty million renminbi worth of arms on loan from Japan. However, when the cargo arrived at Qinhuang Ind, it was taken away by a mysterious person thanks to a bill ofding.


    Yang Yuting was the one that deceived the shipping team to acquire the arms!


    From that day on, Yang Yuting received the trust of warlord Zhang Zuolin. He was quickly promoted and became one of the valiant generals of the Northeastern Army. Yang Yuting had a bright career ahead of him thanks to this bill ofding. It was no wonder that after he died, a wisp of his departed soul had attached to this list.


    However, he had been dead for years, and nothing strange had happened. Why did he show up all of a sudden?


    Did somebody anger him?


    I instinctively turned to look at Yu Hua, but I noticed that he was gone.


    Not only him, but Li Mazi had also disappeared. Two men had disappeared into thin air right under my nose!


    I was sure Yang Yuting had yed some tricks on me. He used the list to attract my attention and kidnapped the other two.


    However, he was just a spirit. How could he have kidnapped two living people and made no noise?


    It hadnt even been a minute, so Li Mazi and Yu Hua were still close. I turned on my shlight and began searching for them.


    I quickly found Yu Hua. He was pulling Li Mazi and was walking out of the hall.


    Yu Hua had red eyes, and his body exuded strong resentful energy. There was no doubt that he was possessed.


    I felt that this was the best-case scenario. I would just need to deal with the spirit and then deal with him.


    However, I then thought that things couldnt be that simple. If Yu Hua had a cooperative rtionship with Yang Yuting, why did Yang Yuting upy his body?


    Li Mazi and I might have suspected the wrong guy. But if he wasnt the murderer, who was?


    While I was thinking, Yu Hua had already dragged Li Mazi out of the museum. The guards who were supposed to be watching outside were nowhere to be seen.


    It would be hard for me to save Li Mazi by myself. Moreover, it didnt seem that the spirit wanted to hurt him just yet. He dragged him along and left to go somewhere.


    I followed them, and we soon reached the railroad. Then, both of themid right on the rails.


    My heart sank. Yang Yuting sure was ruthless!


    If theyid like this, Yu Hua and Li Mazi would be cut in half when the nearest train came!


    Right after, I heard the sounds of a whistle. I panicked and saw that a train was approaching fast.


    Damn, take this! I gritted my teeth and stormed onto the railroad,shing my Sirius Whip at Yu Hua. He screeched in agony after everysh.


    However, he didnt avoid my attack, nor did he let go of Li Mazi. The train drew nearer and nearer. I made my decision quickly. I retrieved the Sirius Whip, screamed, and dashed forward.


    Yang Yuting didnt expect that I would risk my life like this. He was perplexed for a moment. I seized the chance and pulled Li Mazi out of the rail.


    In that glimpse of time, the train brushed past me, and I heard Yu Hue screech horribly.


    After the train was gone, I wiped the sweat off my face and ran to check on Li Mazi. I heaved a sigh of relief when I confirmed that he was all right.


    Li Mazis face had turned chalk white. Little Brother Zhang, things are too scary this time!


    When he pulled his pants down, I realized that he had peed himself. It was good that there was nobody around. Otherwise, Li Mazi would be aughing stock.


    I turned to find Yu Hua, but he wasnt as lucky as us. Both of his legs had been cut off at the knees, and his blood had dyed the railway red. He was in shock and convulsing.


    Since Yang Yuting had left his body, there wasnt much to do. Li Mazi and I hurried to get him to the hospital.


    When the doctors pushed Yu Hua into the operation room, Li Mazi and I waited in the corridor, full of worry.


    Li Mazi recognized that we had wronged Yu Hua. What should we do now?


    Well go to the museum. Im sure Yang Yuting will return to that ce, I said resolutely.


    Why did the guards leave? Who gave them the order to leave?


    Although Yang Yuting had dragged Li Mazi to the rail, I knew that his real objective was to kill Yu Hua!


    Yu Hua was disabled, and five guards were dead. After connecting these events, it was proven that there was someone wreaking havoc in the museum.


    Someone had tried to borrow the hand of the spirit to murder Yu Hua but without sess. Now, he would hide in the dark and sharpen his knife.


    That was why Li Mazi and I only pretended to leave the hospital.


    Yu Hua stayed in a single-patient room, so we could just hide under his bed.


    Time ticked by. The young nurse on duty kept dozing off in her chair. After a while, she checked the corridor and quietly sneaked out.


    It seemed she had snuck away to sleep. Even the nurse waszy.


    <em>Where is her enthusiasm to serve people?</em>I sighed.


    Little Brother Zhang, do you think that murderer wille? Li Mazi sounded uncertain.


    He will. Unless the murderer is Yu Hua himself.


    As soon as I said that, we heard intermittent footsteps from the corridor. Someone wasing!


    Li Mazi and I exchanged looks and balled our hands into fists. Soon, the patient room opened, and a man wearing a loose raincoat entered the room.


    When the man saw that only Yu Hua was in the room, he took out a shining cleaver, aiming it at Yu Huas chest.


    Although I had guessed that he woulde, I was shocked to catch him trying to murder someone in a hospital.


    Before he could stab Yu Hua, I kicked and sent him to the ground.


    The man took a few steps back. When he saw me, he was startled. However, he quickly pulled himself together and ran away.

 Chapter 447: The Secret Underneath the Floor

    Chapter 447: The Secret Underneath the Floor


    Li Mazi also got out from underneath the bed. However, he didnt dare to directly face the man as he was holding a cleaver in his hand.


    Luckily for us, we heard footsteps from the corridor. I guessed it was the people from the hospital doing a nightly room check!


    After I looked at the back of the man wearing the raincoat, I realized that something was wrong. He looked familiar.


    I shot Li Mazi a nce andshed the Sirius Whip, coiling it around the mans arm. Li Mazi stormed forward to subdue him.


    However, as soon as the Sirius Whip hit him, the man screamed and fell. At the same time, a pungent smell exuded from his body.


    I went over to him and flipped open his raincoat. It was Song Zhong!


    Song Zhongs head was sewed back to his body, and an eye-catching blue talisman was adhered to his chest.


    It was pretty obvious that someone was controlling Song Zhongs body.


    <em>But why did he send the corpse here? Did he want to frame us?</em>


    I recognized that the situation wasnt good. I rushed to put the raincoat back on the dead man and was ready to carry him out with Li Mazi.


    However, before we got out of the patient room, we saw shing lights from the police cars outside the hospital.


    Crap, hes pushed us into a pit of fire! The cameras will show that he went inside the room alive and that we carried him out as a dead man. We wont be able to exin ourselves if that happens!


    Li Mazi was panic-stricken. What should we do? The only guy at the scene is Yu Hua. But hes still unconscious!


    At this critical moment, I had a sudden idea. I took Yu Huas phone and found the number saved as Manager and dialed it.


    I believed that if the person I was calling was the manager of the Shenyang Museum, he must know about Li Mazi and me.


    Sure enough, after listening to my exnation, the manager said with a voice full of energy, Kid, dont worry! The organization wont wrong good men, and we wont spare the evil, either!


    Not long after we hung up, the police cars outside retreated. I turned and caught the sight of the empty area beneath Yu Huas knees. I shook my head reluctantly.


    I had to wait until he woke up to make him guess the person controlling the ghost. After all, I didnt know any of the people working in the museum.


    But before Yu Hua woke up, I received a call from Song Zhongs wife.


    Master, Song Zhong came to me in my dream. He told me that theres a document hidden beneath the floor of the hall. Its the hall where theres a lot of paranormal activities. That document must be delivered to Yu Hua.


    A document? A lot of possibilities appeared in my head.


    If Song Zhong didnt let go of that document even after his death, it must have been something important. It could be the cause of his death.


    Perhaps, an important figure in the museum had murdered them because of that document. Since I didnt have much time, I left out the details and just asked Li Mazi to stay here and protect Yu Hua.


    When I arrived at the Shenyang Museum, I saw the guards; they were back.


    They didnt lookzy at all. They looked stern as they watched the entrance.


    It seemed my assumption wasnt wrongthe problemid within their organization.


    Anyway, if I couldnt enter from the main entrance, I would use the back door. To my surprise, there was a man also watching the back door. Feeling helpless, I had to knock him unconscious.


    The security guys on duty didnt dare to go near the exhibition hall where there were paranormal activities. As such, I easily reached the hall where the weapons list was kept.


    The surroundings were silent, and there was nomotion from the spirit, either.


    This made me feel restless.


    However, I didnt have much time to consider things. I boldly turned on the light and crouched on the ground, starting to knock on each tile.


    Song Zhong said that the document was hidden beneath the floor. As such, I suspected that there was a hidden chamber underneath one of the tiles. However, all the tiles I knocked on sounded the same.


    Did Song Zhongs wife mishear her husbands words? I muttered as I called the woman. However, her phone had rung for quite a long time, but no one picked it up.


    All of a sudden, the lights in the entire hall cked out. My surroundings were swallowed by darkness.


    Before I could react, a cold wind arose. The strong Yin energy created a two-meter tornado, which encircled me.


    I hurried to wield the Sirius Whip to protect myself as I took a few steps backward. At this moment, I didnt have any other weapon except for the Sirius Whip. I didnt know if I could endure the attack.


    The tornado slowly congregated into a dark shadow figure in front of me.


    I took a better look at the shadow. It was a burly man with a fierce face who wore the General uniform of the Kuomintang. Who else could it be but Yang Yuting himself?


    Before he could open his mouth, I hurried to bow to him and respectfully addressed him as General Yang.


    I didnt do it to earn his favor. I did out of respect for him.


    It seemed Yang Yuting nned to attack me at first, but after hearing me greet him, he looked pleased. His malicious aura subsided a little bit.


    I exhaled in relief because I knew that I could talk to him. General Yang, you can tell me your wish. Im sure I will find a way to help you fulfill it.


    You want to help me achieve my wish? Yang Yuting asked with red eyes. Xueliang was just a kid. I supported him with all my heart and helped him inherit the Great Warlords position. However, I didnt expect him to listen to that female Japanese spy in his bed and murder me! If I didnt help him, how could he have protected the Northeastern area? He would have disappointed the Warlord!


    Even a good official would have a hard time resolving a family dispute. Furthermore, it was almost a century ago.


    Until now, there was no historical confirmation of Zhang Xueliang murdering Yang Yuting. However, most of the experts agreed that Yang Yuting shouldnt have been killed. Killing him was no different from breaking the tigers teeth. After his death, the Japanese army was no longer afraid of the Northeastern army.


    I quietly listened to his words, noticing that he didntin about his wrongful death. He was only worried about the fate of his country.


    Although he was dead, he still loved his country and was worried about it!


    I rubbed my face then carefully advised, General Yang, rest assured! The Japanese were expelled, and China isnt the China you once knew. Today, Chinas a powerful and rich country. The name of our country is well-known around the world. No one dares to bully us anymore!


    I know. Its much better than before.


    Then, Sir <em>If you also think that our countrys doing well, why would youe out here and make a mess?!</em>


    Oh right, why did Ie out here? Yang Yuting suddenly felt muddled. He asked me if I knew what was going on.


    I told him every detail of the event.


    After listening to me, he was mad, telling me that he didnt kill anyone. And, when he heard that Song Zhong was dead, he thundered and said that he would never kill a fellow from his hometown.


    I realized that Song Zhong and Yang Yuting were both from Sheshangkou Vige. No wonder the graveyard had such powerful resentful energy; Yang Yutings grave was there.


    It seems my assumption was correct. Someone killed those security guards and then med it on you, I said.


    After they discovered his secret, the murderer used the paranormal activities as an excuse to kill the five security guards.


    Then, he invited me to deal with Yang Yuting, shifting all the me on him.


    I asked Yang Yuting if one of the security guards had buried anything in this exhibition hall. Being a departed soul, nothing in this ce could escape his eyes.


    If Song Zhong did bury a document here, Yang Yuting would know about it.


    Yang Yuting thought for a moment and shook his head.


    <em>Whats going on?</em>


    I called Song Zhongs wife one more time. This time, the line went through immediately. Before I could talk, Song Zhongs wife started crying.


    While sobbing, she said, Master, Im so sorry! I didnt have a choice. A man stormed in my house and forced me to trick you to go to the museum. If I didnt listen, he said he would kill my children...


    Damn it!


    I couldnt help but curse. It was clear now. This ce didnt have any hidden documents.


    <em>Still, why did the murderer trick me intoing here?</em>


    <em>Was he hoping that Yang Yuting and I would destroy each other? Or, did he want to send me away so that he would have enough time to kill Yu Hua?</em>

 Chapter 448: Catching the Murderer

    Chapter 448: Catching the Murderer


    Since I was rtively safe here, Li Mazi might be in danger. I hurried to call him, but no one answered.


    Before I left the hospital, I had told him to stay there and take care of Yu Hua. I had instructed him to always keep his phone on. Li Mazi wouldnt ignore my call without any reason.


    As such, I bowed to Yang Yuting one more time and said goodbye. He nodded at me. Then, he turned around and disappeared.


    It was clear to me that the murderer was behind the paranormal activities. As long as I dealt with him, Yang Yuting wouldnt show up again.


    Hold on, kid.


    As I was about to leave the hall, Yang Yutings voice called me from behind.


    I turned around, thinking that there was some wish he wanted to fulfill.


    However, when I turned around, Yang Yuting wasnt even ten centimeters away from my face. I could sense his sky-reaching resentful energy with each breath.


    Senior, what happened I said softly.


    Yang Yuting opened his mouth and sneered. I want you to die!


    He suddenly reached out his hands and grabbed my neck. I was dumbstruck and couldnt get a hold of myself or react to his sudden change.


    <em>A moment ago, he looked so gentle. How could he have changed so quickly? Was he pretending, or is there someone controlling him?</em>


    While I was thinking about these possibilities, Yang Yuting tightened his grip on me.


    I tried tosh the Sirius Whip on him, but he stood still without flinching. No matter how hard I tried to hit him, he didnt loosen his hold.


    Eventually, my strength was drained. My arms dropped, and my mind went nk. I even had trouble breathing.


    At this moment, I heard hurried footsteps behind me, as well as Li Mazis voice. Little Brother Zhang, Iming to save you!


    He then stormed forward and sprinkled handfuls of refined salt on Yang Yuting.


    Li Mazis actions were so abrupt that Yang Yuting couldnt react in time. ck smoke rose from his body, which gave me the chance to gasp for breath.


    Li Mazi had sessfully attracted Yang Yutings attention. The ghost was enraged and kicked Li Mazi in the air.


    He was so strong that Li Mazi directly hit a ss counter, vomiting blood. However, Yang Yuting didnt n to let him off yet. He went to him, lifted him up and started to hit his head.


    Li Mazi looked like a punching bag right now.


    I didnt dare to linger around. I gritted my teeth and dashed forward with the Sirius Whip, aiming for Yang Yutings head.


    This time, my attack connected, and sizzling ck mist rose from the ghosts head.


    At the same time, I heard someone screaming outside. I was surprised and confirmed that Yang Yuting was being controlled.


    When I hit his head, the person controlling him suffered a bacsh.


    Someones controlling Yang Yutings ghost. Hes right in this museum. Hurry,e with me!


    I called Li Mazi then ran in the direction of the screech.


    Sure enough, I found a streak of blood in the corner. It seemed this person wasnt a professional. Otherwise, he wouldnt have vomited blood like this after receiving a bacsh.


    I heaved a sigh of relief and followed the streak of blood. Soon, I saw a shadow limping ahead. When I approached him, I saw that he was wearing a raincoat.


    This time, it was the real culprit. He didnt dare to fight me. He was just trying to flee.


    As I chased after him, I realized that this fellow knew the structure of the museum very well. I almost lost track of him many times. However, I was able to use the streak of blood to find him again.


    In the end, I forced him to the back fence of the museum. All of a sudden, he jumped up and started climbing the fence.


    I wanted to chase after him, but as soon as I touched the fence, I felt a horrible tingling sensation. My body was sent backward, and I fell to the ground.


    The fence was electrified, and the man in the raincoat was wearing a pair of insting gloves. That was why he could climb the fence easily.


    I was scared as I almost got electrocuted. I sat on the ground to recover then returned to the exhibition hall with a dejected face. It would be much more difficult to catch our guy the next time.


    When I returned, the lights in the hall were on. Li Mazi saw that I was hurt, so he limped toward me to support me. He then told me that there was a big surprise in the room.


    I wasnt in a good mood, so I didnt answer him. When Li Mazi and I went into the room, I was surprised to see Chuyi. He was stepping on the man wearing the raincoat.


    Yu Hua was sitting in a wheelchair, watching them.


    The man wearing the raincoat had his mask removed. I finally saw his real face. He looked familiar, but I couldnt remember where I had seen him.


    In the end, Yu Hua told me that the man was his boss. I then remembered where I had seen him. He used to be on TV.


    Yu Hua said, Thanks to his position, he has repeatedly stolen national treasures and sold them to foreign businessmen. He earned money using this method. The five security guards and I had discovered his secret, and we started to gather evidence of his crimes to make a report to the police. But he found out and decided to kill us all. He wanted to make us shut up forever!


    I couldnt help but shake my head. Then, I turned to Chuyi. You told me you didnt want to get involved in this case. Why are you here?


    I just didnt want to face Yang Yuting since he was also a victim. Someone was controlling him, said Chuyi gently.


    Yu Huas boss wanted to use Yang Yuting to get rid of them, but Yang Yuting didnt want to harm anyone. This forced him to change his n. He released Yang Yuting to scare people while he killed people in secret, putting the me on the resentful soul.


    When he saw me and Li Mazi in the museum, he began to worry and tried to control Yang Yuting to get rid of Yu Hua.


    After his n failed, he decided to frame us. However, that didnt work, either. Left with no choice, he headed to Sheshangou Vige and forced Song Zhongs wife to call me.


    His ultimate goal was to lure us here and kill us.


    As long as we died, all those who knew the secret would never be able to speak up again. However, he didnt expect that Chuyi woulde here all of a sudden.


    In the end, Yu Hua was able to submit evidence of his crimes to the Discipline Inspection Committee.


    Although he was the boss of the museum, due to his intended murders and crimes of stealing national treasures, he received a death sentence that was to be carried out immediately.


    Yu Hua gave me the list of weapons, which I then donated back to the Shenyang Museum.


    As it was in my hands before I donated it, I didnt vite the rule of the otherworldly item Circle. This was the best oue.


    Before the boss was taken away, I asked him why he wanted to steal the national treasures, and if the sry he received wasnt enough to make ends meet.


    No, what Icked was money but power.


    It was his way of living. He used the money to buy his position. Then, he sold the antiques to acquire money and buy a higher position.


    When I heard that, I felt upset. This wasnt just about him. It was the problem of many people in the government.


    Society was really ruthless at times!


    Why did you crave power that much?


    I used to serve the people in this country. However, in this society, good officials cant survive. If Im not corrupt and if I dont bribe my superior, I cant reach a higher position. Without the power thates with that position, how can I serve my fellows?


    I was speechless.

 Chapter 449: The Black-Hearted Businessman

    Chapter 449: The ck-Hearted Businessman


    Although I had solved the problem in the museum, the murderersst words still lingered in my head. Strangely, I was in a low mood.


    Chuyi bid us farewell, and as usual, he didnt tell me where he was headed.


    While Li Mazi and I were packing our belongings to return home, I received a call from Song Zhongs wife.


    Maam, did something happen? I frowned and thought that something had happened to her family.


    Ah, no stammered Song Zhongs wife.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Is there anything else I can help you with?


    Are you still in Shenyang?


    Yes, I am.


    She seemed to want to tell me something, but she sounded hesitant. After a long moment, she asked, Could you help me with something?


    Is it rted to an otherworldly item? I was surprised.


    She hesitated for a while and said, Im not sure.


    Then, she briefed me on some details of the incident.


    She had a cousin called Yuan Datou from her fathers side. Yuan Datou was a businessman who mainly worked in the three Northeastern provinces.


    However, as the saying goes, all businessmen are devious. After Yuan Datous business prospered, he began to meddle with evil people. He befriended a bunch of thugs and often helped high-position officials and rich people deal with illegal matters.


    A few days ago, he made a deal with a Taiwanese businessman. After the task waspleted and he received the payment, something happened before he could enjoy hismission.


    Yuan Datou became hot-tempered and went as far as hitting his children. At first, his wife thought that he was stressed, so she didnt want to quarrel with him. She thought he would get better after a while.


    However, Yuan Datoupletely changed afterward. He showed hatred to anybody near him and acted as if the entire world had offended him.


    His family decided to take him to a mental hospital, where he could receive proper treatment. However, the doctor there said that there were no problems with his brain.


    Soon after, Yuan Datous health worsened, and he started to lose weight. That was when his wife recognized that perhaps he had angered some evil spirit. She quickly searched around to find an expert that could help her husband.


    After Song Zhongs wife listened to the story, she immediately remembered me and Li Mazi. She tried her luck by giving us a call. Fortunately, we were still in Shenyang.


    I see I thought and answered, Maam, since its not rted to you, I will need to receive some payment.


    If it was rted to her, even if I had to take risks, I would help her. After all, it wasnt easy for her to survive on her own as she was a widow with children. However, if it was someone elses case, I wouldnt hesitate to charge them, especially if the other party was a ck-hearted businessman. Li Mazi would also agree with this.


    I understand. Hes rich. He can pay you a lot! Song Zhongs wife quickly told me that as though she was afraid that I would reject the case.


    I nodded and asked her to wait for us at her home. Then, I hung up.


    Li Mazi was next to me, and he also listened to the call. He sniggered and said, This trip wasnt in vain in the end, right?


    Look at your happy face! I smiled and scolded him.


    In the afternoon, Li Mazi and I went to the market to buy some stuff we thought might be useful. Around twilight, we drove to Sheshangou Vige.


    When we arrived, we saw many elderly people sitting under the big trees and ying mahjong while the kids were running around.


    Many of them recognized us. They greeted us and asked if we needed help.


    Seeing them like this, I guessed they had gradually forgotten about Song Zhongs tragic death. I lied and said that I was about to leave Shenyang, so I came to visit Song Zhongs family for thest time. I did so to ease the vigers worries.


    The real reason for my arrival was to ask Song Zhongs wife to take us to Yuan Datous house. However, when I went to her house and saw the two kids, I changed my mind. I asked her for the address and the contact information before leaving.


    Why did you change your mind? Li Mazi asked.


    We should always consider the consequences, I answered. Im not sure if Yuan Datou has encountered an otherworldly item, but its not necessary to involve the widow and her children in this matter.


    Yuan Datous house was in the Fifth Ring of Shenyang City. On the way to his house, the surroundings looked like the junction between the urban and the countryside areas. Domestic trash and peddlers were everywhere.


    Eventually, we found Yuan Datous house at the end of the street. It was an independent vi. A woman around thirty or forty years old was standing at the big gate, waiting for us. When she saw our car, she walked forward to wee us.


    Are you Yuan Datous wife? I asked.


    On the way there, I had already called her. I thought that the woman was her.


    Yes, I am Yuan Datous wife. You can call me Xiao Li. The woman nodded. However, she kept bending her upper body to look into our car.


    Li Mazis face grew irritated when he noticed the womans actions. Big sister, what are you doing?


    Ah, nothing


    Xiao Li smiled embarrassedly. Although she had said that, her eyes were still scanning our car. I guessed she thought that Li Mazi and I looked too young and that the real master was inside the car.


    If you doubt people, you shouldnt ask for their help. Maam, do you need our help or not? I calmly asked her.


    Otherworldly merchants had their pride. If she said she didnt need us, I would leave immediately.


    However, she wasnt too stupid. After hearing my words, she repeatedly apologized.


    I didnt have time to talk nonsense, so I asked her to tell me all the details concerning her husbands incident.


    She invited us to the vi and made us two cups of coffee. Then, she started to tell the story. After my husband helped a Taiwanese businessman take something from a farmer in the countryside, his personality has changed greatly. He often gets mad without reason. He wasnt like that before. All of a sudden, he doesnt even recognize his family


    Please get to the important points! I didnt have time to listen to her bitter story. My brows mmed together.


    Yes, yes. I will


    Xiao Li paused for a while. Her face suddenly turned chalk-white as if she had just recalled something very terrifying.


    A momentter, she started to speak. Its even stranger that he loses his mind in the morning, but at night, he bes very gentle. Hes like a well-educated gentleman. He always sits on my bed and tells me romantic things! Moreover, when he talks to me, his face is always focused on me and his voice is so loving. No matter what I pour on him, he wont be angry or stop talking sweetly to me. I felt strange when he acted like that. But I couldnt tell how or why he behaved like that. I just hope that he returns to his previous self.


    While telling us, Xiao Li shivered. I knew she was scared. I patted her shoulder and asked her to continue talking.


    Until a few days ago, I was at my parents house. When I came home, it waste at night and thought that Old Yuan was already sleeping. However, as soon as I went to our bedroom, I heard him talking sweet words to someone. My first thought was that he had cheated on me and brought another woman home. I was so angry that I kicked the door open. When I entered the room, Old Yuan was sitting alone on the bed and mumbling those words. He didnt react no matter how loud I called him. It looked like he was talking to a ghost.


    Xiao Li patted her chest to calm her racing heart. From that moment on, she had recognized the seriousness of the situation. She didnt dare to stay in that bedroom anymore.


    It seems your man is bewitched by a female ghost! Li Mazi looked amused. He crossed his legs and pretended to be all mysterious.


    He was taking revenge on Xiao Li as she didnt respect us at first.


    Xiao Li was scared and asked Li Mazi, What should I do now?


    Oh, its not a big matter. I dont need to handle it myself. My apprentice can solve it in my stead. Li Mazi pointed at me.


    I helplessly shook my head. Li Mazi did look older and more mature than I did. That was why he pretended to be my master in many cases. I couldnt deny this fact.


    Xiao Li looked at me with tears in her eyes. I had tofort her. Dont worry, maam! Ill be sure to help you.


    Then, I fiercely red at Li Mazi.


    While Li Mazi was chatting with Xiao Li, I carefully scanned every corner of the vi. Soon, I noticed that the whole vi was dry except for a bedroom on the second floor. It was humid, just like a room by the beach. I observed the area and even found a wisp of ck mist at the door.


    I couldnt help but frown. I pointed at the bedroom and asked Xiao Li, Is this Yuan Datous room?


    Yes, it is. Xiao Li was surprised. How did you know that? Did you see anything bizarre?


    I nodded with an indifferent face. I went to Li Mazi and muttered something in his ear. Li Mazi blinked. He said nothing and left the vi.


    After he left, I asked Xiao Li, Maam, during this time, did any abnormal things happen in your house?


    From the ck mist at the bedroom door, I knew that the otherworldly item that was pestering Yuan Datou wasnt ordinary. If it could attach to Yuan Datou and tell love stories every night, I was certain that this room was hiding something else, too.


    Xiao Lis eyes sparkled for a moment, but she denied. No, nothing strange has ever happened.


    I was sure she was trying to deceive me. I sneered and said coldly, Very well. If you dont want to tell me, dont me meter when something bad happens to your husband.


    Wait! Ill tell you... Xiao Li bit her lower lip. She was hesitant for a long moment before she decided to tell the truth.


    It turned out that they didnt buy this vi. Yuan Datou had used illegal methods to take it.


    Previously, this vi was the property of Yuan Datous boss. He had bought this ce for his mistress. However, before he could do the paperwork to transfer this property to his mistress, he passed away.


    Of course, after the boss was gone, Yuan Datou imed the throne. Unfortunately for the mistress, he had alreadyid his eyes on this vi. The thugs came, sshed paint on her door, and sent her threatening letters every day. In the end, the woman decided to kill herself right inside this vi.


    Yuan Datou was a bold gangster. He believed in neither gods nor ghosts, so he moved in shortly after that.


    After telling me the story, Xiao Li looked at me with a worried face.


    Has the ghost of that mistresse to take revenge on us? she asked.


    Im sorry, but I cant ept this case. You should invite another master. After listening to her story, I furrowed my brows. I wanted to leave.


    I was just a small otherworldly merchant, and whenever I encountered a strong otherworldly item, I had to risk my life.


    Before I could even find the otherworldly item, I discovered that this vi also had a female ghost with strong resentment. Unless I was dumb, I shouldnt ept this case.


    When Xiao Li heard my words, she recognized the seriousness of the matter. She hurried to grab my arm. She cried and begged me.


    I felt helpless as I just couldnt say no to crying women. Moreover, Yuan Datou was the bad guy whomitted the crimes. Xiao Li was just an innocent housewife.


    I took in a deep breath. Maam, please dont be impulsive. I will check to see if I can help, but I cant assure you anything for now.


    Yes, yes. Please try your best! Xiao Li stammered. She looked really frightened.


    I needed more details. Maam, around what time does Yuan Datou be tender and loving?


    Xiao Li replied immediately, Around 12:00 AM every night.


    It seemed my guess was correct. In ancient times, people believed that 12:00 AM was the moment Yin and Yang met and shifted. Only a powerful and dangerous ghost coulde out and talk to the otherworldly item during this period.


    Maam, what has Yuan Datou been doing these days? I asked.


    Except for babbling his romantic words at night, he sleeps all the time. I have to feed him to keep him alive, said Xiao Li.


    If Yuan Datou couldnt even eat, it seemed he would die soon.


    Li Mazi returned with a dirty face. He held a big bag of grass ashes, which he then threw to me. Damn it, I have to do all the dirty andborious tasks! This time I will request more payment! I want extra money!


    I ignored him and asked Xiao Li to take me to Yuan Datous room.


    She curiously looked at the bag of grass ashes in my hand. What are you going to do with that?


    It used to be willow twigs soaked in saltwater. Ten pounds of willow twigs burned into one pound of ashes. As to what this bag is used for... I smiled coldly and looked at the ck mist at the door.


    Master, will it hurt my husband? Xiao Li sounded anxious. She was worried about Yuan Datou.


    My impression of her improved. I asked her not to worry too much. She nodded and opened the door for us.


    I carefully observed the strange ck mist. When the door opened, I noticed that it didnt disperse. Quite the contrary, it seemed to grow denser.


    At the same time, a pungent smell exuded from inside the room. I entered the room and saw Yuan Datou sleeping on the bed. His face didnt have a bit of color, and he looked as thin as a match. It was clear that he wouldnt be able to endure it for long.


    He makes this room his toilet too? asked Li Mazi as he pinched his nose. I followed his line of sight. Indeed, there were many bottles and cans full of excrement scattered around the room. The waste created a horrible stench.


    I couldnt help but frown. Yuan Datou had turned into this state, and Xiao Li had neglected him all this time?

 Chapter 450: Fearful Ghostly Room

    Chapter 450: Fearful Ghostly Room


    Xiao Li seemed toreadmy mind. She sighed.Wheneverhegot mad, he didntletanybody enterhis room. He wouldlockhimself inside. Ive tried to sneak in to clean the room, but he hit meand shooedme out. Eventually, Istopped caring about him.


    Please clean the room now. Open all the windows and the door to ventte thisce. I didnt know what to tell her, so I asked her to clean the room then left.


    As soon as we got out of the room, Li Mazi dramatically took in the fresh air. What a stinky room!


    Ikeep getting the feelingthat something iswronghere. We should be more careful, I told Li Mazi.


    It took Xiao Li two hours to cleanYuan Datous room. Althoughshe had opened the windowsforventtion, we still smelled the stenchwhen we entered the room again.However,it wasnot as unbearable as before.


    I took out a Soul Stabilizing Talisman I had drawn beforehand and adhered it onYuan Datous forehead. I did that to preventhim from going out of control again.


    Then, I lifted his eyelidsand useda magnifying ss to check his eyes. I was shocked at first nce. His pupils were dted. Dense, brown-red spots had grown inside his eyelids. Some of them already had pus.


    Ifthingscontinued this way,hewould die inless than two days!


    I immediately asked Xiao Li to go toaChinese herbal pharmacy to buy supplement foods with great nutritional value. Then,Li Mazi and Isprinkled willow ashes on the carpeted floor.


    Willow ashes were goodforattractingspirits. Ifaghost came here, it would leavefootprintson the ashes.


    However, some strong ghosts could use the wind to blow away the ashes. Thatwaswhy I had asked Li Mazi to drip ck dog bloodonthe ashes. It would give more Yang energy to the ashesand prevent them from beingblown away.


    A momentter, Xiao Li came with a bowl of soup cooked with ginseng from Mount Changbaiandforcefully fedYuan Datou.


    What should I do next?she asked.


    Now, we wait. I was a little anxious.


    I gave Li Mazi and Xiao Li some talismansand askedthem to wait.If somethinghappened in the room, we would storm in andattackwith thetalismans. I had drawnthesetalismans, and although their power couldnt bepared to Chuyis talismans, they were still useful.


    Li Mazi received the talismans andputtheminhis pocket. Then, he sat in the living roomand watchedTV as if nothinghad happened. His eyes purposely lingered on Xiao Lis breasts.


    Ifeltthat we had to quickly finish this caseso thatI could take him back to Ru Xue. Otherwise, this fellowcouldmitacrime!


    Xiao Li carefullyput awaythe talisman, asking,What are you going to dotonight?


    She noticed that my willow ashes didnothing.


    In our business, beforewe dealwith the otherworldly item, we have to know its originandprepare the right treatment. Then, wecan eitherhelpthe soscend or simply subdue it.Your husbands situation is special. Hes notjust beingpestered by a departed soul. We need to know more about the case.


    She nodded and said nothing.


    Li Mazi couldnt find any program he liked,so he switched off the TV. The three of us sat in the living room, waitingfor the night toe.


    The room was filled with the ticking sound fromthetable clock. Soon, it was midnight. I turned off the lightsandcarefullywatchedYuan Datous room.


    The mistaroundthe door had grown thicker. It had coveredthe entire door. It seemed that thing wanted toe out.


    Li Mazi was sleepy. He yawnedandasked, Has anythinghappened yet? Otherwise, Im goingto sleep.


    Stop talking. Shh I lowered my voiceand askedXiao Li,Do you have any spicy ingredients in your house? Garlic and onion are good.


    Yuan Datouwould always stay in his room, even when he needed to urinate. Thishad something to do with the departed soul.Garlic and onion couldprotect fromevil spirits and produceunbelievable effects at times.


    Xiao Li was surprised. Yes, Ill get some for you. She went to the kitchen and fetched some onions.


    Each of you should keep onejust in case.


    I puttheonioninmy pocket and continued to watch the door. Surprisingly, the dark mistwasgone. At the same time, we heard someone walking around in the room.


    Lets go! I hissed.


    Li Mazi and Xiao Lireturned to their senses andbecame tense.


    Less than one minuteter, a tender male voice came from the room.Xiya, whyhaveyoue again?


    That voice spoke in a Northeastern dialect and had the roughness of a bandit. Xiao Li told me it wasntYuan Datous voice.


    A wife shouldgowherever her husband is. Wherever you go, Ill follow you. A female voice arose.


    My heart sank. My guesswascorrect.


    However, from Li Mazis and Xiao Lis reactions, it seemed they didnt hear the womans voice.


    A momentter,Yuan Datoutalked again. Im not who I used to be. My badreputationhas spread everywhere, and people me me for being a traitor. Why do you need to do this?


    I dont care. Ever since you redeemed me from the Eight GreatStreets, my heart belongedto you. I dont care if you are a traitor or a bandit.Ilways love you,said the woman stubbornly. Hervoicecontainedhappiness.


    While listeningto their conversation, I guessed thespirit possessingYuan Datouwas a traitor during the war of resistance against the Japanese,and the woman was from Beijings Eight GreatStreetsafamous red-light district. The traitor had redeemed her, and their love grew from there.


    I gestured to Li Maziand askedhim to go upstairs with me.


    After we approachedthe door, I carefully pushed it little by little. I nnedto enter the room discreetly.


    However, as soon as Iopened the door, astrongwind arose from the room. It carrieda powerful suction forceanddrew Li Mazi andmeinto the room. The doorclosed behind us.


    Feeling bewildered, I turned to look at the bed.Yuan Datouwas sitting on the edge of the bed,angrily looking at me.


    Helooked as if he wishedto tear me apart. Afaintlydiscerniblefigure in red waskneeling besidethe bed. She lookedatYuan Datouwith loving eyesand didnt seem to notice our arrival.


    Get lost!


    Yuan Datouopened his mouthand roaredlike a tiger.The gentleness from beforewas gone.


    After he shouted, the red shadowbesidethe bed reacted. She turned to look at us, her facein a daze.


    When I nced atthered shadow, I was stunned. She was a true beauty. She worea red cheongsamand had soft skin and big eyes.


    She had lived during the resistance war, but even in this modernera, she would be a Goddess!


    However, the happy atmosphere didnst long. Afterthe woman sawus,shesuddenly aged. Right before our eyes, she started togrowwrinkles all over her body.


    Her eyes began to bulge,and she stuck out hertongue. She looked like a ghostthat had hungherself. I noticed a ring ofbruiseson her neck.


    Damn! Lets run! I yelled at Li Mazibefore boltingaway.


    Female ghosts wearing red clothes were the most powerful type of ghosts. Moreover, the one wesawhad hung herself. I knew I wasnt her opponent;I had to retreat first.


    However, I wassurprisedto seethat the misthadreappearedand shroudedthe door.


    Even stranger, when I tried toreach forthedoorknob, I couldnt find it.


    Atthis moment, Li Mazi suddenly retched. Before I could check on him, Ismelleda stench from the mist.


    It smelled like themaster stockpeople used to make stinky tofu. At the same time, I alsosmelledrotten corpses.


    I didnt know how to describe this smell. However, after inhaling it, I felt my braicking oxygen andcouldnt help but convulse.


    I tried to ignore the pain in myhead and tookout the onion from my pocket. Ibit it without peeling it, chewing and swallowing it.


    When the spicy taste filled my mouth, my consciousnessbecameclearer. I resumed my actions.


    I turned to my side and saw Li Mazi on the ground. I hurried to tear some onionand shoved itinto his mouth, makinghim chew it. Fortunately, Li Mazismindwas still clear. He listened to meand chewed the onion, which allowed him to recover.


    I got up and blewatthe door. My stinkyonionbreathwas like the archenemyofthe ck mist. It caused the mist todisperse.


    However,whenI stopped blowing my breaths, the ck mistreturned to cover the door. Anyway, Iknew what to do now. Li Mazi alsonoticedthe power of the onion. Learning from me, he started to blowat the door.


    We carefully moved forward. Eventually, I blewawaythe mist at thedoorknob.


    But before I could open the door, I heard Xiao Li screaming for help behind us.


    I took out the spirit talismanand preparedto strike.But whenI turnedaround, Isaw thatYuan Datouhad already captured Xiao Li. He was strangling the woman.


    Hesmiledarrogantly at me. If you run, Illstrangleher to death.


    Myscalp went numb. Looking atYuan Datous malicious face, he wasnt joking.


    After strugglingfor a short moment, I reluctantly let go of thedoorknob.


    What do you want? I asked coldly.


    What do I want?


    Yuan Datousneeredand pointedat thetalismanI was hiding behind my back. Hurry, throw that thing away!


    My heart sank. If I threw the talisman away, it wouldnt be different frommitting suicide. However, seeing Xiao Lis helpless look, I had to listen to him. Islowlylet go ofthe talisman.


    However, someonesuddenlypped me, and mywholebodyshook.


    When I regained my focus, IrealizedLi Maziwas the one who hadpped me.


    Li Mazisaidnothingand pulledmy hand, dragging medownstairs.


    After he released me, I asked,Whats going on?


    Do you see her?Li Mazi pointed at Xiao Li, who was sitting on the sofa.


    When I sawthe woman in front of me, I suddenlyunderstood.Yuan Datoudidnt capture her.


    Whathappened to me just now?


    Remembering the current situation, I was bewildered.

 Chapter 451: Calling Senior Shu for Help

    Chapter 451: Calling Senior Shu for Help


    Li Mazi said that the female ghost had bewitched me. If he hadnt acted fast and improvised, it would have been game over for all of us.


    Li Mazi would never miss any chanceto brag. He began to babbleand headed towardXiao Li.


    Yeah, you really saved me this time. I heaved a sigh of reliefandplimented him.


    Li Mazi contentedly raisedabrow. Of course, dontyou know who your brother is?


    Iignored him andturned to talk to Xiao Li. However, when I went to the sofa, there was no one there. Xiao Lihad disappeared.


    Wheres Xiao Li?askedLiMazi in a shaky voice.Damn, this ce doesnt feel right at all. LittleBrother Zhang, we should leave.


    Irubbedmy temples. I waspletely lost.


    Therearetwo souls in that room, and Xiao Liis gone.This vi hasat least three departed souls.


    Werethey a group?Also, isXiao Li a human or a ghost?


    At this instant, so many questions filled my brain.


    Li Mazi pricked his ears toward the toilet. After a while, hesaid,LittleBrother Zhang, it seems Xiao Lis in the toilet.


    After hearingLi Mazi, I lifted my headand lookedat the toilet behind us. When we opened the toilet door, we saw Xiao Li crouching in a corner. She was huggingher knees, herface full of fear.


    What happened?


    I asked herwithout getting tooclose. Moreover, I was carefndhelda talisman in my hand. If shedid something strange, Id beprepared.


    Aghost Theres a ghost! Theghost looks exactly like me. She told me not to go out...


    Xiao Li started to cry. I took out the ox tears I had prepared and smearedthemon my eyelids. After the sour feelingwasgone, I studied Xiao Li carefully. Her three Yang mes were still burning.My mind eased, andI walked forward to lift her.


    There was nothing wrong with her, so the Xiao Li we met earlier was a ghost. Iregretted eptingthis caseand reallywanted to ignore it since it was beyond mycapability.


    However, my heart was softened whenI sawXiao Licrying. After all, shewasawoman in need of help.


    I needed to prioritize the tasks. The urgent task to dofirstwas to identify the ghost that had impersonated Xiao Li. Who was she, after all?


    I looked at Xiao Liand askedher to tell us what had happened to her.


    I dont know. That ghost has never shown up before. This is the first time I saw her. I went to the toilet and saw her,but she didnt want to harm me. She only told me not to leave the toilet. When you guys descended from the second floor, she disappeared,saidXiao Liwhile shakingher head in fright.


    That ghost didnt harm Xiao Li. Itseemed she wanted to protect her.


    I decided to ignoreYuan Datoufor now. If the ghost told Xiao Li to stay inthetoilet, there should be something hidden there.


    To verify my assumption, I asked them to leave. Then, Iswitched off the lightsandheldpass, movingaround the area. However, even after a few rounds, thepassneedlewas still.


    Why is this? Ifrowned and mumbledto myself.


    Then, the situation suddenly changed. Thepassneedlemoved fast thenpointed upward.


    I lookedat thepassneedle andsighed. Whenever theneedlepointed upward,thephenomenon wascalled FloatingNeedle.It meant thatadeparted spirit was here. Moreover, it was akindone.


    Ingeomancy, when this phenomenon happened,it meant the ancestor of the family oraHouse Protector was present in the house to protect the family.


    Since the ghost looked like Xiao Li, shehad tobe Xiao Lis ancestor.


    I put thepass away and burned three incensesticks, cingthembythe windowsill. Although there was no wind in this narrow toilet, the three incensesburnedevenly. Thesmokesurroundedme.


    I took a step back and respectfully bowed to the smoke. When I lifted my head, Isaw the smokecreatetheword, Thankyou.


    The ghosthad thanked me for protecting Xiao Li. I gave a gentle nodand said, Senior, dont worry!SinceI epted this case, I will take care ofeverything.


    After I said that, the words shookandslowly dispersed.


    AfterI leftthe toilet, my perspectiveof the case changed. EvenXiao Lis ancestor was persistentin protectingher. As such,being an otherworldly merchant, what reasondidI have to give up this case?


    LittleBrother Zhang, should we leave or not? Li Mazi hurriedly asked. He hadntgotten a hold ofhimselfyet.


    Xiao Li looked at me, worriedly. She was afraid that I would leave.


    Ivedecided to ept this case I answered.


    My words stunned Li Mazi. Hey brother, are youokay?Do you havea fever? Li Mazi stammered, reachinghis hand to check my forehead.


    Justgo to watchtheTV! I smiled and pushed him away. Xiao Li, you should sleep. I knowhow todeal with the departed souls. Tomorrow, we will arrange everything.


    Xiao Li repeatedly thanked me. However, she lingeredas shedidnt want to go to her room. I knew she was scared, so I told her that she could sleep on the sofa.


    It seemed she was really tired. She didntrefuse and quickly driftedinto sleep.


    Did you find anything? Li Mazi asked.


    I smiledand toldLi Mazi about the encounter with Xiao Lis ancestor. Li Mazibecameexcited.


    With this extra force,why wouldwe be afraid of them?Nowonder you suddenly became so bold. And, if that ghost was Xiao Lis ancestor, Im sure shesbeen here longerthan those two ghosts upstairs. They were from the time of the resistance war,after all. Maybewe dont need to do anything. The ancestor will finish them.


    Its not that simple. I admired Li Mazis spiritual victory method.


    What do you mean? asked Li Mazi.


    If she didntletXiaoLi leavethe toilet, it means shecanonly protect Xiao Li when shes in the toilet! Moreover,thetwo ghosts upstairs havestrongresentful energy, but they onlystay insidethe room. They didnt chase after us. Did the three parties reach an agreement of some sort? I imagined the possibilitiesas I exined my thoughtsto Li Mazi.


    Li Mazithought about it thengaveme a nod. Do you have any solution to lure the two souls to the toilet? Actually,itll also begoodif we canget them downstairs.


    We can try. But we should sleep now. idon the other sofa in the living roomand closedmy eyes.


    LittleBrother Zhang, where should I sleep? Li Mazi wasdejected.


    I thennoticedthat there were only two sofas in the living room. Xiao Li and I had upied them all.


    If Li Mazi didnt want to sleep with the two ghosts upstairs, hewould haveto lie on the floor.


    Up to you. You can take the toilet. I then closed my eyesand decidedto ignore him.


    When I woke up the next morning, Xiao Li had prepared breakfast. She didnt look bad. It seemed our presence had supported her a lot.


    AfterI washedmy face, I noticed thatLi Mazi had disappeared. Xiao Li, have you seen Li Mazi?


    She shook her head.


    Wherecouldthis fellowhave gone? I took out my phone to call him.


    The ringtone resounded from underneath the sofa, andLi Mazi crawled outright after, his face drowsy.


    Whats the matter? he asked.


    Nothing I was speechless.


    After breakfast, I called Yin Xinyueand toldher that Iwasall right. Then, with a serious look, I calledSenior Shu.


    I was helplessandneeded extra help. It would be nice if he could give me someideas.


    However,the old mandidnt pick the call. In the end, I had to send him a threatening messagethat saidthat if he didnt pick up the call, I would ask Chuyi togivehim a call.


    Right after I sent the message, he called me.


    As soon as the linewentthrough,Senior Shusaid,If you need something, tell me quickly. Im going to y mahjong.


    ughed. I have something I want to ask you,Senior.


    Whatis it? Spit it outquickly.Senior Shuwasimpatient.


    Its like this... It was rarefor him to giveme a chance to talk. I carefullychosemy words and told him the story.


    After I hadfinishedtalking,Senior Shukept silent for quite a long time.


    I called him a few times, andhe asked me to continue.


    I said,Continuewhat?Im done talking.Haventyou been listening to me?


    Its something this trivial and you need my help? You bringshame to your grandfather!Senior Shusaid then hung up.


    I looked at the phone, feeling baffled. I thoughtaboutcalling him another time, butI refrained myself from doing so.


    It was because he said thatI had shamed my grandfather.


    Im not going to ask anybody! And dont think that I cant surviveon my own!


    To my surprise,Senior Shuthensent me a message. Hatred grows from the heart. If theres no hatred, the spirit will leave.


    Although what he told me wasnt helpful at all, I could still feel his concern.My heart warmed up.


    I putaside the thought of asking for external helpandrecalled the conversationbetween thetwo ghosts from yesterday.


    Xiao Li, do you have any photos of the previous owner of this vi?I mean themistress thatYuan Datouforcedintmittingsuicide.


    Xiao Li thought. Yes, I do.


    She searchedthroughYuan Datous blog and found a photo ofthemistress. At first nce, I knew the mistress was the ghost wearing the red cheongsam from yesterday!


    Do you know her name?


    She was called Bai Xiya.


    Last night,Yuan Datouhad addressed the female ghost by the nameXiya.Itseemed thatthe ghost not only had the same appearanceasthe mistress, but they also shared the same name.


    If shewasa prostitute in the Eight GreatStreetsand had artionshipwith the spirit, I guessed she wasnt just an anonymous person. Idecidedtosearchfor her name on the inte.


    I got many results. However,theywere alljunk, likeHow many people are there in the country with the name Bai Xiya? or WhowasBai Xiyas husband?There were many resultslike that. I couldnt find the information I was looking for.


    I felt discouraged.


    Li Mazi vowed that hewould find her. Then, he essed a secret website...

 Chapter 452: Traitor

    Chapter 452: Traitor


    After a while of searching, Li Mazifoundsomething. Zhang Xuecheng, themander of the Northeastern Army during the resistance war against the Japanese army  also Zhang Xueliangs cousin  once redeemed a Japanese woman from the Great EightStreets. That woman wasnamedKoasa Masako.


    This was the only useful clue we hadlearneduntil now.


    However, the names didnt match. I searched the secret website for the name Masako.The moment I sawthat herChinese name was Bai Xiya, I was soexcitedthat my handsshook.


    Itwas her!


    I hadnt expected that the ghost in red was Japanese!


    It turned out that when she was living in the Eight GreatStreets, she only sold her talentandnot her body. However, since she wasincrediblybeautiful, many young men in Beijingdesiredher.


    One day, General Zhang Xuecheng from the Northeastern Army wentto Beijing. Both their hearts raced when they first saw each other. Zhang Xuecheng paid a lot of money to redeem her.


    Since the rtionship between China and Japan was really tense and sensitive at that time, Koasa Masako changed her name to Bai Xiya beforeshemarried General Zhang Xuecheng.


    Unfortunately,the happy days didntst long. After the fall of the Northeastern Army, Zhang Xuecheng changed greatly. He bowed to the enemyand becamea traitor. The Japanese army made him the General Commander of the traitor army, where hebecamethe oppressor to people living in Northeastern areas. In the end,hehad to repay for his sin. Hiscousin, Zhang Xueliang, sent troops to kill him.


    To show her loyalty to her husband, Bai Xiya hung herself in front of his grave.


    The two of them had died bearing grudges. ook possession ofanotherworldly item, while the other onereincarnatedwithout ever forgettingher deceased husband.


    Withgreatluck, the couple had met again in this vi.


    AfterI gotall of the information, Iwas no longer worried aboutthis case. However, I pitied this couple.


    Zhang Xuecheng was an ambitious man. However, hewas inhis cousins shadow all of his life.In the end,he changed, which madehim walk down the wrong path.


    Everybody else cursed him for being a traitor.Only Bai Xiya understood him.


    AsSenior Shuhad told me, as long as I couldget rid of the obsession thespirits had, they would vanish by themselves.


    Compared to Zhang Xueliang, it was easier to deal with Bai Xiya. Although she hadstrongresentful energy, it was about love.


    As forZhang Xuecheng, if Bai Xiya went to reincarnate, he would let everything go.In the worst case, I could forcefully kill him. I had neverfeltmercytowardstraitors.


    I had an idea. I asked Li Mazi to go to the flea market and get me two Northeastern Army uniforms. Tofessured, I even asked Yin Xinyue to tell us how to wrap Li Mazi in Zhang Xueliangs style.


    Zhang Xuecheng had been under Zhang Xueliangsshadowhis wholelife. In the end, heeven died in his hands, so hehad tobe afraid ofhim!


    I spent the entire afternoon in Xiao Lis study room,drawingtalismans. It wasnt that I couldnt draw the right patterns;Ijust felt in the mood to draw.


    Normally, it wasnt badifone of the ten talismansI drewworked.Butafter receivingSenior Shus guidance, my state of mind improved. Today, my sess rate was close to 20%!


    Li Mazi understood thatdrawing talismanswas an energy-drainingactivity.He kept urging me to stop. Hey brother, stop drawing. If you waste too much of your energynow, youwontbeable to do anythingtonight.


    In the end, he snatched the remaining yellow papers from me, which forced me tostop. I counted and found that I had drawn around ten sessful talismans. I nodded, feeling satisfied.


    It wasaround twilight, and Idecided to take anap. When Li Mazi woke me up, it was alreadyte at night. I rubbed my eyesand lookedat the bedroomonthe second floor. The ck mist at the door had grown thicker.


    I didnt know why, but I suddenly remembered Xiao Lis ancestor. Perhaps the ck mist was thereto prevent her from entering the room.


    Normal people couldnt see the ck mist, and spirits wouldnt usually give warnings to living people.


    While thinking of this, I kept an eye on it. If I had a chance, I would break that mist and let Xiao Lis ancestor gointohelp us.


    At midnight, I asked Xiao Li to hide in the toilet and told hernot togo outunless Icall her.


    With her hiding, Li Mazi and Ididnt need to worry about protecting her.It was also to preventthe ghostsfrom bewitchingus.


    Not long after Xiao Li hidin the toilet, we heardYuan Datous voice from the second floor. Xiya, you should go and reincarnate! You dont need to keep missing me. I hope that you willhave a good familyin your next lifeandget a good husband. Forget about me. Im just a traitor.


    General,please dont talk like that. Itwas sohard for me to meet up with you again. Idont want toleave you! Bai Xiya sounded resolute.


    LittleBrother Zhang, now is not the right time for us to goin there, right? Even Li Mazi, a blunt and careless fellow, looked touched. How could I not be moved?


    However, I didnt have achoice. It wasagood time for us to take action. I took the lead and went straight upstairs. Li Mazifollowed afterme.


    This time, I didnt hesitateand kickedthe room open. Before the two ghosts in the room could react, I shouted, Reporting to theYoung Warlord! Zhang Xuecheng has betrayedour country!Hesa traitor for the Japanese!He shames the Zhang family. How should we punish him?


    While talking, I carefully gazed atYuan Datou. Instantly, his eyes turned bloodshot. He clenched hisjaw and lookedas if he wanted to tear me apart.


    My heartraced, butI had to pretendthat I wasnt scared.


    The momentYuan Datouwas about to burst, Li Mazi stepped in, wearing the uniform of Kuomintang with a cool coat. He talkedcoldly,I have always treated you as my good brother,hopingthat you would bring glory to our Zhang family. I never expected that youwould goso far.Sigh! I, Zhang Xueliang, will exterminate this traitor to protect our country! No mercy!


    Ihad to admit thatLi Mazis domineering speechhadthe style of the Young Warlord.I thought if we didnt seed this time,luck wasnt on our side.


    Luckily for us, after Li Mazispoke,Yuan Datous face paled. He shook off Bai Xiyas handand preparedto flee.


    Ihad beenwaiting for this chance.The momenthestarted to run, I stormed forwardand readtheBigDipper Sirius Spell. I wieldedmy Sirius Whipandshed at Yuan Datous arm.


    Yuan Datouscreeched, and smokerosefrom his arm.He was scared, and hiscouragewas gone. He didnt resist at all. Helet go ofBai Xiyaand ran out ofthe room.


    He must have thought that Li Mazi and I would chase after him.That waswhy he left Bai Xiya.


    Toobadthat he was wrong. Everything was going ording to my n!


    After he left the room, I closed the door andstuck afew talismanson it. After I confirmed that he couldnt enter the room,I turned to see Bai Xiya.


    I thought that she would roll her eyes,bare her teeth,and takerevenge on me and Li Mazi. However, she maintained her formal sitting posture on the bed. When she saw me, she gave me a deep bow, the most respectful greeting forminJapanese culture.


    Then, she got off the bedandslowlywalkedtoward us.


    I didnt understand what she meant byher actions. However, my mind told me that I shouldnt be careless. She hadnt taken action yet because she was afraid of us.


    Li Mazi had just performed beyond his normal capacity, but when he saw the ghost approachingus, he was frightened. He dumbly askedme, What should we do now?


    I cursed under my breath.


    Bai Xiya was surprised for a while.Then, shebeamed evilly. Her beautifulface turned into the appearance of a ghost that had hung herself. She reached her handsand tried to strangleLi Mazi. Her long fingernails sparkled in the cold light.


    Why theheck are you standingidle there? Use the talismans! I screamedandshedthe Sirius Whip at her shoulder.


    Bai Xiyas shoulder sizzled,andck smokerose fromit.


    She screamed horribly, and her hostile eyesgazedat me. SheignoredLi Maziand stormedtoward me.


    My heart raced. I usedall of mystrengthtoshthe Sirius Whip at her. After each whip, she wouldscreechin pain. However, she didnt dodge, not even once, and did her best to shortenthe distance between us.


    shed the whip seven times, and after its power was exhausted, I reluctantly put itawayand usedthe talismans to attack her.


    Unfortunately, my cultivation wasnthighenough. Even when I used the talismans, the ghost wasmerelyslowed down. My talismans didnt work well on her.


    I soon used all the talismansI had with me.The ghosughed crazilyand grabbedmy neck tightly.


    Li Mazi roared. He stormedforward andgrabbedBai Xiao from behind,crazilystickingthe talismans on her body.


    Under our double attack, she could no longerkeep hercalm. Her figure became translucent.


    I felltothe groundandseized the timetolookat the door. The ck mist there was dispersing. Irealizedthat the female ghostwas the one behindthat ck mist.


    As soon as Iunderstoodit, I turned and screamedatLi Mazi,Dont mind her! Attack the ck mist!


    Iguessedthat Xiao Lis ancestor woulde to help us.Before, she didnt dare to show up. But now, only Bai Xiya was here, and we hadhurther a lot. As such, it was likely thatshewould appear.


    Li Mazi turned and ran toward the door. Unexpectedly, Bai Xiyastopped attacking me and turnedaround tochase afterLi Mazi.


    She was flustered.Myassumption was correct. I got up, usedall of my strength to grab her,and heldher back. I wanted to makemore time for Li Mazi.


    Bai Xiya waspletely frantic. She roared and triedto shake me off. Sheshookmeso muchthat myheadwentnk. Instinctively, I let go of her.


    At this critical moment, Li Mazi cried, The ck mist is gone!

 Chapter 453: The Longquan Villas Conspiracy

    Chapter 453: The Longquan Vi''s Conspiracy


    A strong tornado swept in from the outside, directly twirling around Bai Xiya. I exhaled in relief. I felt lucky that I had made the right bet!


    Bai Xiya looked as though she was afraid of the tornado. Her face paled, and she couldnt utter a word. In the end, the tornado turned into the form of Xiao Lis ancestor. She stood next to me.


    Im warning you! Do not put your nose in someones business! Bai Xiya said through gritted teeth. However, she didnt sound confident.


    I want to put my nose in this. Do you have any opinion against it? Xiao Lis ancestor sneered.


    You


    Bai Xiya was speechless. She angrily pointed her blood-red fingernails and tried to scratch my chest.


    I couldn''t react in time.


    Fortunately, when her fingernails were around ten centimeters away from my chest, Xiao Lis ancestor caught her hand. Then, she hurled the ghost to the bed.


    Bai Xiya tried to attack me several times after that. However, her attacks were all blocked. In the end, she begrudgingly sat on the bed and quietly looked at me. Her eyes had no trace of fear and were full of contempt.


    Xiao Lis ancestor might have known that I couldnt deal with this ghost. She didnt disappear and just stayed and watched.


    Thank you, Senior! I gratefully thanked the shadow. After she nodded to me, I turned to Bai Xiya.


    I knew it was time to finish this case. I asked her, Why are you smiling?


    Since all of you are held back here, my General should be safe answered Bai Xiya.


    Looking at her infatuated appearance, I felt a little sad. I asked, Do you really love Zhang Xuecheng?


    Do you need to ask?


    Is it real love or selfish love? I pushed further.


    She looked at me, not understanding. Are they different?


    Of course they are different. If you really love him, you should give up and reincarnate. Thats how Zhang Xuecheng will gradually be able to let go. Everybody would have a nice life.


    No, I dont want that! I dont want to be parted from him! After listening to me, Bai Xiya shook her head.


    My heart ached a little bit. However, I had to keep an indifferent face. I see... You have chosen selfish love. In that case, Ill have to destroy your soul and make you perish. Then, Zhang Xuecheng wille to take revenge for you, and Ill have to kill him as well. As a result, you two will never be able to reincarnate.


    Bai Xiya looked aggrieved. A momentter, she mumbled, Has my obsession harmed him?


    Thats right. As itse to this, you have two choices. The first is to leave this mundane world and reincarnate. The second is to die and never reincarnate again. After I said that, I turned around and discreetly wiped my tears.


    I admit that I cried that day. Although it had been half a century and they were already ghosts, they still thought of each other first.


    If I said they hadnt touched me, I would be a liar!


    However, everything should follow the rule. If there were no rules, how could things continue to progress?


    In the end, Bai Xiya epted my help and chose to leave. Before she went away, she left Zhang Xuecheng a letter. Although I didnt see the content, I knew it was full of her wishes and love for him.


    Yuan Datou woke up the next morning. He looked much better. After Xiao Li told him the whole story, he repeatedly thanked us.


    You dont need to thank us. However, you should do more good deeds from now on and stop being a criminal.


    I will, I will. I will definitely turn over a new leaf! Yuan Datou promised.


    Li Mazi secretly asked if I believed Yuan Datous words.


    I said with a smile, I believe he can do it to some extent.


    Even if people werent watching, the heavens were!


    It seemed everything went well in the end. Now, we needed to help Zhang Xuecheng ascend. With the letter Bai Xiya had left him, I believed I could solve things easily.


    That night, I asked Yuan Datou and his wife to hide in the toilet. Then, I brought Li Mazi to the bedroom on the second floor. I peeled the spirit talismans on the window and opened it a bit.


    Everything was ready. Now, we just had to wait! At around midnight, a cold wind came from the window. It seemed he wasing!


    I prepared to wee him. I guessed that he would look for Bai Xiya first. Since Bai Xiya was gone, he would ask me for her whereabouts, and maybe even fight with me.


    This was within what I could handle. As long as I could talk to Zhang Xuechang, this case could be solved.


    Then, I would show him the letter and use Bai Xiyas love to awaken him. I was certain that I could subdue him.


    However, as soon as he entered the room, he started to attack me as if he had gone crazy!


    You two, youll pay with your lives for what you did to Bai Xiya!


    My heart skipped a beat. How did he know that Bai Xiya was gone?


    Zhang Xuecheng hade with the intention to kill us. This situation was beyond my expectation.


    Li Mazi and I didnt stand a chance. Except for a few talismans we peeled off the window, we had no other tool to defend ourselves.


    Luckily, Li Mazi was quick-witted. While I was wrestling with Zhang Xuecheng, he ran downstairs to ask Xiao Lis ancestor to save me.


    It was also when I understood the real power of Xiao Lis ancestor. When she appeared, the temperature in the room dropped sharply, and even Zhang Xuecheng was startled.


    However, he still stormed forward. This was beyond my prediction. There werent many ghosts that were bold enough to continue attacking an enemy stronger than them.


    Fortunately, after Zhang Xuecheng recognized that he couldnt win this battle, he left.


    I stood aside and observed the fight the whole time. I noticed that there were many instances when he wanted to flee. However, a secondter, he would lose his mind and attack as though he wanted to die together with the other party.


    Moreover, his attacks were mainly aimed at me, and he did not pay much attention to the other two.


    Although he had left, I was still worried. I remembered his bloodshot eyes. If Xiao Lis ancestor hadnt helped us, I thought I would have been torn apart.


    Its freaking strange. Little Brother Zhang, do you have any idea why that ghost kept aiming for you? Li Mazi asked worriedly while patting my shoulder.


    When he asked that, I suddenly recognized that someone might be controlling Zhang Xuecheng.


    The one that wanted to take my life might be someone hiding in the dark!


    <em>Still, who was it?</em>


    I racked my brain but couldnt remember whom I had offended. In the end, a name popped up in my head. The Longquan Vi!


    Ever since I had entered this business, only the people from the Longquan Vi had consistently tried their best to mess with me.


    With that thought, I clenched my teeth in anger. I tried to ask Xiao Lis ancestor if she knew the location of the one trying to kill me.


    There was a distance restriction when controlling ghosts. That person had to be hiding in the area.


    With Xiao Lis ancestors assistance, I was sure we could easily find his location. However, she didnt answer. Her shadow shed, then disappeared.


    I was bewildered. However, I soon understood it. What I did was taboo.


    She had saved me because I had risked my life to protect her descendant. But now, as our karma was settled. It was too much to ask more of her.


    I sighed, not knowing what to do.


    Li Mazi suddenly pointed at the ground. Little Brother Zhang, take a look at this. What is it?


    I followed the direction of his finger. There were two words written in ashes on the floor, discarded material.


    There was no doubt that Xiao Lis ancestor had a soft side. She gave me an important clue. I looked at the two words for a long time. Suddenly, I remembered there was a waste collection station near this vi.


    The person who wanted to kill me was there!


    Today, youre going to regret everything youve done! I cursed loudly and carried the Sirius Whip with me as I ran toward the waste collection station.


    Li Mazi followed behind me. In a worried voice, he asked, Why havent you prepared anything?


    Theres no need. Were going to deal with a person, not a ghost! I panted. That person is controlling the ghost and has fought against Xiao Lis ancestor for quite a long time. Im sure hes injured. We should rush in now and go for the kill!


    Ah, nice! Ive been pretty annoyedtely. I need a ce to vent it out.


    As soon as Li Mazi knew that there wouldnt be anything dangerous, he got in the mood to fight and balled his hands into fists.


    It waster than 1:00 AM, and the surroundings werepletely dark. Since it was autumn, a cold wind blew through our clothes.


    When I saw the door to the waste collection station, the anger inside me subsided. I began to worry. Li Mazi noticed my actions. He stopped smiling and asked, Do you still want to get in there?


    What are you talking about? I lowered my voice then blew some warm air into my palms and rubbed them together to warm myself up. Then, I loomed to pick up a steel pipe from a pile of trash and made my way toward the small wooden cabin inside the waste collection station.


    That person was hurt, and I was sure he wouldnt be able to walk far. That cabin was a good ce for him to recover!


    Li Mazi also picked up a wooden stick from the ground. As he walked, he weighed the stick in his hand.


    When we were around one hundred meters away from the cabin, Li Mazi suddenly threw the stick. The stick flew out and fell onto a pile of ss bottles.


    The ss bottles ttered and scattered on the ground. The sharp noise immediately broke the silence of the night.

 Chapter 454: The Calm Before the Storm

    Chapter 454: The Calm Before the Storm


    What the hell are you doing?! I couldnt help but curse him. Then, I dashed toward the small cabin.


    Li Mazi knew he had created trouble. He hurried to catch up with me.


    He reached the wooden cabin before me and kicked the door open.


    I followed closely behind him and shined my shlight. There was no one in the cabin.


    At this moment, we heard the roar of a car engine. I hurried to get out of the cabin and caught a glimpse of an unregistered car leaving.


    I went to the road to check. There was a streak of blood on the floor where the car was parked. I dipped a finger in it. The blood was still warm.


    <em>That bastard knew that we wereing for him, so he fled...</em>


    Its my fault. Li Mazi lowered his head like a kid that had made a mistake.


    I shook my head. I cant me you. This rascal was prepared. I underestimated him.


    Since we had failed, we felt down. We decided to return to the vi to sleep.


    When we woke up the next day, Yuan Datou was exercising, and Xiao Li looked very happy. She told us that she liked Yuan Datou when he was lively and vigorous like now.


    I gently smiled. Brother, could you tell me what you did for the Taiwanese boss that an evil spirit started pestering you?


    He was startled when I asked him.


    Since that spirit has escaped, he will return to retaliate against you. For your safety, I hope you will cooperate with me, I said.


    What?


    Yuan Datou was hesitant at first, but after I told him that, his face changed greatly. Xiao Li also coaxed him into telling me the whole story. Eventually, he told me the truth.


    He had done a business deal with a real estate chairman in Taiwan. That chairmans surname was Zhang, and he happened to be a descendant of General Zhang Xuecheng. After the liberation of the country, he fled to Taiwan and started his business. His business thrived with time. And now, as he had four generations in his family living together, he thought about clearing his ancestors name.


    However, Zhang Xuechengs archived documents were ced in the ancestral hall of the Zhang family in Shenyang. The chairman in Taiwan couldnt reach the ce from his location. That was why he had used his connections to find Yuan Datou.


    Yuan Datou and his gangsters boldly intruded the Zhang familys ancestral hall. Not only did they take the Zhang familys genealogy documents, but they also assaulted a few elders. Yuan Datou was pestered following that incident.


    After listening to him, I rubbed my temples and asked skeptically, What youre saying is that the spirit didnt know about the existence of Bai Xiya at first. He just randomly started to pester you, right?


    I thought I could exin the situation. Zhang Xuecheng didnt want to leave the Zhang familys ancestral hall, and he didnt care about what theter generations thought of him, either.


    I think so. Yuan Datou nodded.


    I suddenly saw the light. Zhang Xuechengs biggest pride was that he was a descendant of the Zhang family. How could he be willing to leave the Zhang familys ancestral hall?


    If Yuan Datou got into trouble, that Taiwanese chairman wouldnt fare well, either.


    I asked Yuan Datou for the Taiwanese chairmans contact number and called him.


    When the line went through, I went straight to the matter and told the secretary that I wanted to talk to the chairman. The secretary hesitated and told me that the chairman wasnt avable.


    I sneered. Your chairman asked someone to steal some documents from the Maind. Its something rted to General Zhang Xuecheng. I guess hes being pestered by a ghost now. He cant sleep or eat well, right? And he always feels like someone is following him, correct?


    The secretary kept silent for a few seconds, then told me to wait.


    A momentter, an old mans voice arose. His voice was weak, just as if he had a hard time in the past few days.


    I hated to talk to this sort of rich people, so I just simply summarized what had happened to Yuan Datou and told him that he should return the item he took if he wanted to live in peace.


    The chairman didnt hesitate and agreed with me. I even felt joy and relief in his voice.


    Master, ever since that genealogy document came to Taiwan, weve been hearing people crying and bowls rattling every night. My wife and children were scared and moved out. I also wanted to move out, but no matter where I went, at around midnight, Id hear that noise. I currently have to take sleeping pills. The chairman sighed.


    I exhaled in relief. No matter what, he was Zhang Xuechengs descendant. Zhang Xuecheng wouldnt kill him. At most, he would scare him.


    Dont worry. As long as you return the familys genealogy document, your life will go back to normal, I said.


    Seeing that I had ended the call, Yuan Datou asked, Master, how did it go? He was really scared.


    Theres no need to worry. That chairman agreed to return the genealogy document! You should return it to the ce you took it. And, you have to find the elders you hurt andpensate them. Thats how you can cut off the bond between you and the evil spirit. He wonte to haunt youter.


    Yuan Datou shyly asked me about themission. Li Mazi rolled his eyes and half-joked with him. Do you need to ask? Dont you have a number in mind?


    Im afraid it might not be enough. Yuan Datouughed and nudged Li Mazi.


    In the end, he paid three million renminbi. We became friends, andter on, I had a chance to go to the Northeastern area and visit him. During that visit, I learned that he had sold his vi to obtain the money to pay me.


    From that day onward, he dismissed his gangster band and became an honest businessman. Although he wasnt filthy rich, he didnt need to worry about making ends meet.


    After receiving the payment, Li Mazi and I stayed in the Northeast for one week. Yin Xinyue, Ru Xue, and Li Meng also came.


    As we didnt have anything to do, we decided to travel. A weekter, the genealogy document the chairman had sent arrived. I gave it to Yuan Datou, who then traveled during the night to return it to the Zhang familys ancestral hall.


    When everything was done, Li Mazi and I felt somewhat embarrassed. Ever since we had started working in this business, this was the weirdest case we had encountered. The victims and the otherworldly item were dealt with, but we didnt know where the evil spirit was


    It seemed like everything was fine. However, I knew it was just the calm before the storm.


    After Xiao Lis ancestor forced him away, Zhang Xuechengs ghost didnt reappear. It proved that someone was still controlling him. I knew that whenever they had the opportunity, the people from the Longquan Vi woulde and try to kill me.


    When we returned to Wuhan, we had a few peaceful days. Later on, Li Mazi and I often felt that people were stealthily lingering around my antique shop.


    However, every time we went out to see who it was, we didnt see anybody. If things kept going this way, we would be exhausted before the other party even took action.


    I decided to call Chuyi. After he listened to my story, he said coldly, Theyre courting death!


    Then, he hung up the call. Chuyi always had an unruffled tone. However, this time, he was enraged. From his rage, I felt I was in grave danger. I decided to close my shop for a while.


    I would stay in the shop all day long with Li Mazi. We had discussed and decided that we wouldnt do anything until Chuyi arrived.


    Although I calcted all the possibilities, the situation was leaning in the direction I didnt want the most.


    After talking to Chuyi, Li Mazi and I started to live in seclusion. ording to Chuyis character, he woulde here within three days.


    Unfortunately, a week had passed and he had neithere nor contacted me. Li Mazi kept nagging me to call him.


    He wont ignore us. Rest assured. Ipletely trusted him.


    I was sure Chuyi had something more important to do. That was why he hadnt arrived yet. After he was done with his stuff, he woulde here.


    Li Mazi pouted and said nothing.


    As Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue had work to do, they couldnt hide with us. I decided to make them stay with theirpanies.


    One afternoon, Li Mazi and I had lunch and drank a bit as we often did. I took a nap afterward.


    At around twilight, I got up because of the urge to use the toilet.


    When I returned to my room, I saw that Li Mazis room was open. I wondered if he had changed his habit since he liked to sleep with his door closed. However, when I went there to check, his bed was empty. Li Mazi wasnt in the room.


    Li Mazi, where are you?


    I was still a little tipsy. I checked around, thinking that he hadid his eyes on my antiques.


    I called his name several times, but no one answered. I suddenly sobered up and went back to his room and touched his bed. It was cold.


    This meant that Li Mazi had left quite a long time ago. I found my phone and called him. Although his phone rang, no one picked up the call.


    I suddenly felt anxious. Although Li Mazi looked unreliable, he was always dependable when we had to deal with important matters.


    I was certain that he didnt leave because of boredom. I put on more clothes and turned on myputer to check my shops cameras.


    On the screen, Li Mazi looked in a hurry. He walked out of the antique shop and hastily stopped a taxi. He looked like he had something urgent to do.


    As Li Mazi always cared about his life, there werent many things that made him worried that much.


    I called Ru Xue. She picked up the phone quickly. Yes? Is something the matter?


    Her voice sounded normal. She wasnt what he was concerned about. In that case, something must have happened to Li Meng!

 Chapter 455: The Blood-Red Triangular Coffin

    Chapter 455: The Blood-Red Triangr Coffin


    I found an excuse so that Ru Xue wouldnt worry. Then, I called Li Meng. Indeed, his phone was switched off!


    I was sure that something had happened to Li Meng. Moreover, it was rted to those people hiding in the dark. Otherwise, Li Mazi wouldnt have left without telling me.


    You fool, brotherhood doesnt work like that! I sighed. It wasnt the first time that he had jumped into the jaws of death. After getting a hold of him, they would use him to threaten me as I was their real target.


    However, what Li Mazi had done still touched me.


    After everything was clear in my head, I calmed down. I couldnt stop the inevitable. Fortunately, I had umted many spirit talismans over the past few days. They could protect me for a while.


    I checked the Peach Soul Flower, the Sirius Whip, and the Yin and Yang Umbre. After some consideration, I decided to bring none of them with me.


    Since the other party had Li Mazi and his son in their hands, even if I brought those items, I wouldn''t be able to use them. If I was careless, my precious items could fall into the other partys possession.


    I put all the spirit talismans into my bag, opened my shop, made a pot of tea, and waited.


    At around 10:00 PM, when I was about to doze off by the table, my phone rang. I hurried to pick it up. It was Li Mazis number.


    Before the other party could speak, I thundered, Dont you dare to hurt them!


    Haha, youre smart. You know that Ive captured them said the person on the other end of the line. He used a voice changer, which made him sound robotic. I couldnt guess his age.


    I frowned and waited for him to tell me about his conditions.


    If you dont want something bad to happen to them, wait for me at the threshing floor of Sanshui Vige. After spitting out those words, the other party hung up.


    He sure chose the worst possible location!


    I took a deep breath. Sanshui Vige was famous for being a haunted vige. ording to the rumors, the vige endured natural disasters for three consecutive years. Afterward, a gue broke out, which killed everyone.


    The government tried to cover up this horrible incident. They sent soldiers to the vige to clean everything up. They gathered all the corpses and burned them.


    Although no one had lived in the vige since that incident, the ce was preserved.


    Old people still tell the tale of Sanshui Vige. They say that when the night falls, even if you are a few miles away from the vige, you can still hear the ghosts crying and roaring. Later, the people who lived near that vige also moved away. As such, nobody knew about the current situation there.


    I had heard about Sanshui Vige from my grandpa when he was alive. At that time, he had told me with a serious voice, No matter what happens, do not step even half a foot into Sanshui Vige!


    Li Mazi, Li Mazi, what do I do now!


    I dumbly lingered in my antique shop and sunk into sadness. I wondered what I should do about Li Mazi.


    As my grandpa had warned me about Sanshui Vige, I was sure that the


    paranormal activities in that vige werent ordinary.


    In the end, I decided to find Li Mazi. I couldnt just stand and watch him die without giving it a try!


    I closed my shop and called a taxi. However, many drivers kicked me out of the car as soon as they heard that I wanted to go to Sanshui Vige.


    It wasnt until I promised to pay ten times the rate that one driver agreed to take me there. However, he said that he would only take me to the road near Sanshui Vige.


    When we got there, no matter how much I implored the driver, he didnt want to move further. As soon as I got out of the car, he stepped on the elerator and returned to the city.


    At first, I didnt feel anything. But after the driver hurriedly drove away, I felt somewhat scared.


    It was a cloudy night, and dark clouds hindered the moonlight. The entire Sanshui Vige looked pitch-ck. The wind blew, and the mist around the vige moved like shadows.


    I walked on the wide road amidst the cold.


    After around half an hour of walking, I saw a scary-looking stone stele. I shone my phone over it. The red words, Sanshui Vige, were carved on it.


    I didnt know why, but my heart throbbed when I saw the words. It was a fear I felt from the depth of my soul.


    My wit told me it was really dangerous inside and that I should not enter.


    However, after thinking about my years of friendship with Li Mazi, I had to step inside.


    I heard two voices in my head. One was urging me to enter the vige, while the other reminded me, No, dont go in there. Someone wants to harm you


    The two voices started to entangle and attack each other. I thought that my head was about to explode. In the end, I cursed loudly, Shut up! Ill listen to no one! I just want to save Li Mazi!


    At this moment, a burst of maleughter arose from the vige. Although the voice came from far away, I recognized it was the man who had called me. I also recognized that he didnt use magic or any tool to deform his voice. It was his real voice!


    Since he was here, Li Mazi was also here. I gathered all of my courage and walked into the vige.


    Soon, I found that something was off. I didnt know why, but I was strangely familiar with every corner of the vige, including the big trees, the buildings, and the streets. I could picture in my mind the next house or the next corner with their distinct features before I reached there.


    <em>Theres something wrong with this vige...</em>


    I became vignt and held the spirit talismans in my hands. I thought that everything in front of me was an illusion created through the power of the wandering ghosts. I had never been to this ce, so I couldnt know every corner like this.


    But soon, I denied this idea.


    As I continued to walk, more shadows flew past me. Sometimes, it was just a shadow, but there were times where they came in groups of three or even five. When those shadows appeared, they screamed strangely. After approaching me, they would halt and study me, continuing to fly past me right after. Only one shadow kept following me since Id entered this vige. I became fearful, but soon recognized that it was my own shadow.


    I felt lucky to be holding a lot of talismans in my hands. Otherwise, I would have been done for before even seeing the mysterious man.


    I didnt know how long I had been walking, but I finally saw a vast area that had a lot of wood and withered straws. There were some ck items in the center as well.


    I turned on the shlight on my phone. Those were threshing machines that people used to extract rice grains. They were all rusted, which proved that they had been exposed to the weather here for several decades.


    However, this ce was deserted. Let alone humans, there was not even a single animal! I thought that the mysterious person didnt show up because he was afraid that I had backup.


    After waiting for more than ten minutes, I didnt see anyone. At the same time, the talismans in my hands started to heat up. It was a sign that the power of the talismans was about to drain.


    I tensed up and dialed Li Mazis number. I was trying my luck.


    Unexpectedly, the line went through. The voice of the mysterious person came from the other end of the line. Boy, you came!


    If I didnte, then my name is not Zhang Jiulin. I refrained the me of anger in my heart and said coldly, You better not mess with me.


    Haha, I definitely dont dare to mess with you. After all, youre a member of the Zhang family, the mysterious man said oddly.


    Theres no need to babble. Tell me, where is Li Mazi? I asked.


    Do you see the threshing machine over there? Underneath is a chamber. Li Mazi and his son are in there. But its up to you to know how to open that chamber He then sneered and hung up the call.


    I calmed down and thought it could be a trap.


    I guessed he wanted me to go to the chamber so that he could lock me there. I shivered and felt like leaving.


    However, I thought about it and decided to go and take a look. What if Li Mazi was really there?


    The human heart was really hard to understand. Anyway, the problem was that the mysterious man had me by the balls right now.


    I went to the threshing machine and reached out my hand to touch it. A chill crept through my fingers. It was like soaking in a river in the middle of a bitter winter.


    I immediately understood. This threshing machine could be a sinister otherworldly item.


    Even if it wasnt, the chamber underneath it could be hiding something ominous. Otherwise, it wouldnt be so cold!


    I wanted to give up. But after thinking about Li Mazis silly face, I had to suppress this thought. I gritted my teeth and tried to push the threshing machine aside.


    In theory, this old-style threshing machine shouldnt be too heavy. An adult such as myself could move it easily. However, even after I had gathered all of my strength, I couldnt move it.


    I tried a few times, but the threshing machine stayed still. I didnt care about the danger anymore. I took out a handful of white sesame seeds and sprinkled them on the threshing machine. Then, with the machine as the center, I arranged a low-level spirit talisman in the North, South, East, and West directions.


    It was a simple evil-expelling formation that could force the strong Yin energy out of the otherworldly item.


    White sesame seeds could absorb Yin energy. This way, I wouldnt be afraid of the threshing machine being stuck.


    I tried to push the threshing machine one more time. This time, it moved and revealed a pit-ck hole underneath.


    Before I could feel happy, a strong blow of wind came from the hole. It roared and swirled around me. Instantly, the four talismans were blown away.


    I didnt have time to care about them. I shone my phone over the hole. At first nce, I was baffled.


    It wasnt a chamber! This ce was a subterranean ancient tomb. Through the dark hole, I saw a big scarlet coffin with a strange form. It was a triangr coffin with many ck talismans adhered to its surface.


    I gathered my courage and looked at the drawings on the talismans. I had never seen such drawings and patterns before.


    At this moment, two questions popped up in my head. <em>Whos the owner of this triangr coffin? Who stuck those bizarre ck talismans on it?</em>


    However, none of these questions had anything to do with me. I hade here to find Li Mazi. If he was here, I should hurry to find him and leave.


    With that thought, I arranged a new evil-expelling formation and prepared to push the threshing machine back to its original location. However, the threshing machine suddenly moved and aimed at me.


    If I wasnt fast enough, I would have been crushed into a bloody dough!


    The resentful energy that exuded from the coffin was formidable. I didnt dare to linger. I had to run!


    All of a sudden, a familiar voice came from behind me. Where do you think youre going?


    This voice sounded so familiar. It belonged to Zhang Xuecheng!


    It turned out that the ghost lingering in this ce was General Zhang Xuecheng.


    Just a few days had passed and his resentful energy had skyrocketed. It had to be rted to Bai Xiyas ascension.


    Since he was controlled, I was sure he didnt have a sober mind. I didnt waste time talking sense into him. I screamed and dashed toward the vige entrance. At the same time, I held thest talisman in my hand and was ready to strike.


    While running, I felt the presence of Zhang Xuechengs ghost behind me. However, he didnt chase after me. I thought it was because the mysterious person was too far. It was hard for him to control Zhang Xuecheng from such a distance.


    I didnt know how long I had been running, but when I saw the red stone stele at the vige entrance, I knew that as long as I could get out of here, I would be safe!

 Chapter 456: Slaying the Elder of the Longquan Villa!

    Chapter 456: ying the Elder of the Longquan Vi!


    The moment I stepped out of Sanshui Vige, a stiff and cold hand grabbed me, pulling me back.


    My heart sank. I turned my head around and saw Zhang Xuecheng. He wore a Japanese military uniform and gazed at me with a sinister look on his face. His eyes were bloodshot and bulged terrifyingly. You little dog, I had no grudge against you, but you killed my woman. And now, you havee to vanquish my soul! Tonight, Ill make sure you die without an intact body!


    From his voice, I knew he was controlled by the mysterious person.


    Damn, lets fight! I thundered with anger. Then, I stuck the spirit talisman on his forehead.


    Unexpectedly, my talisman was useless as it directly passed through his body.


    You loser! Hahaha!


    Zhang Xuecheng gave a mockingugh and strangled me. However, he didnt squeeze my throat all at once. He slowly increased the strength of his grasp.


    I struggled to breathe. At the same time, waves of cold energy moved through his hands to my body. It was so cold that I thought I would soon freeze.


    I knew that I wouldnt be able to escape today. I just hoped that after I died, Zhang Xuecheng would let Li Mazi and Li Meng go. I thought about Yin Xinyue. I hoped she would forget about me soon and marry a good man


    While I was recalling the happy memories I had with Yin Xinyue, a white shadow rushed toward the vige entrance like a gust of wind. The long sword in his hand turned into a blue lightning strike that aimed at Zhang Xuechengs chest.


    Who else could it be if not Chuyi?


    Since Zhang Xuecheng was focused on me, he didnt watch his back. Chuyis sword thrust through his chest. Immediately, ck smoke rose from his body, and he began to shiver.


    Argh! Zhang Xuecheng screeched in agony. At the same time, I heard someone vomit blood nearby.


    I turned toward the source of the sound. The sound came from a small house with a transformer installed at the vige entrance. The door to the house was closed.


    It was no wonder that Chuyis attack worked well. He had hidden well from the mysterious persons view! If that person vomited blood, it wasnt hard to imagine how serious his wound was. Chuyi, what should we do? We shouldn''t let him run away.


    I summoned Lu Dongbin, the Sword Immortal, to use that attack. Zhang Xuechengs soul is confined. We can ignore him for now. Come with me. We need to find the culprit behind all this! Chuyi said as he dashed toward the small house. I followed closely behind him.


    He shed the door into two on the first attempt and rushed into the house. I felt things couldnt be this simple and wanted to remind Chuyi to be more cautious. However, I was a step toote. I could only follow him.


    I turned on my phones shlight. There was a sinister-looking statue, candles, and an incense holder on the floor. It looked like a magic altar. The statue was on top of two pieces of paper.


    Whats this?


    When I picked up the papers, I was shocked to read the contents. They recorded Zhang Xuechengs biography and his rtions in the Zhang family.


    When the Taiwanese chairman sent us the Zhang familys genealogy and documents, I had read them. I recognized these two papers were the most important documents among the batch. However, they werent the original genealogy. They were just two copies.


    Copies can be otherworldly items? I felt unsure.


    Chuyi nodded. Although its a rare situation, it can happen.


    However, this wasnt a naturally-born otherworldly item. It was the otherworldly item the mysterious person created in order to control Zhang Xuechengs soul.


    Chuyi burned the two papers before searching the house. I now recognized that there was a small door at the back of the house.


    When Chuyi saw that door, he paled and screamed, Were trapped!


    Whats wrong? I was skeptical and looked at the area outside the door. There was a muddy, meandering small path that had two rows of candles. Facing the door was a fierce-looking, paper beast.


    The beast looked extremely ugly. It held a paper sword between its teeth and gazed at the door with malicious eyes.


    Its Yazi! He actually arranged the Yazi Formation... I underestimated him. Chuyi turned around. We then found the same Yazi Formation on the path we used toe here.


    Hes vomited blood and he still has the power to arrange this sort of deadly formation. He doesnt want to live anymore! I couldnt believe it.


    I had heard about this formation from my grandfather. This was the deadliest geomancy set up. Once people stepped in it, they had to die. ording to legend, Yazi was the second son of the Dragon King. It was very ugly, and it looked neither like a dragon nor a beast. As a result, the Dragon King abandoned it. With deep hatred, Yazi began to take revenge on the world. If someone offended it, Yazi would find and kill them even if they escaped to the end of the world. It was the root of the proverb Yazi must take revenge. However, this sort of deadly geomancy set up required the caster to spend a great deal of energy from their soul, spirit, and essence. Ordinary people wouldnt dare to use it.


    He wants us to die with him!


    Chuyi let out a deep sigh. It seems we have only one method


    What method? I was surprised.


    As soon as I asked, something detached from my shadow. It was the cute little Daoist boy with a braided ponytail. He smiled sweetly. Brother Chuyi, leave it to me!


    I looked at the Daoist boy and suddenly realized something. It turned out that ever since I had entered this vige, the shadow that had followed me wasnt my own shadow. It was the Daoist boy.


    It was no wonder that Chuyi could find me so quickly ande to my rescue!


    Im sorry... Chuyi wanted to add a few more words. His lips moved, but he couldn''t say anything in the end. He took out a piece of white paper from his bag, folded a paper crane, and wrote a birth date on it.


    The Daoist boy didnt hesitate and entered the paper crane. Chuyi bit his finger and used his blood to write a line of small words on the paper. Instantly, the paper crane looked as if it hade to life. It started to fly toward the paper Yazi in the formation.


    Did you write his birthday on it?


    I suddenly understood Chuyis intentions. That mysterious man was dying. At most, he could only activate the Yazi Formation once. Chuyi wanted to let the Daoist boy die for us.


    <em>Is he crazy? If he does that, the Daoist boys soul would perish and he would never be able to reincarnate!</em>


    I hastily moved to catch the paper crane. Chuyi grabbed me and pulled me back. Zhang Jiulin, you need to live. You shouldnt waste his sacrifice!


    As soon as he said that, the Yazi exploded. It burned together with the paper crane. The moment the Daoist boy perished, I seemed to hear an ethereal voice in my ears. Big Brother, Ill see you again.


    As the me rose higher, the entire Yazi Formation copsed.


    I was surprised to see Chuyi crying. This peerless expert who always lookedposed had finally shed tears. I knew the tears were for the Daoist boy.


    We cant let the culprit run away! After him! Chuyi snarled coldly.


    I gritted my teeth and ran after him. Soon, we found a middle-aged man crawling out of the vige. He had left behind a horrible streak of blood. Needless to say, he was the person who had nned everything!


    Im going to kill you!


    I snatched the sword in Chuyis hand and aimed it at the mans neck. I had to take his life to avenge the Daoist boy. No matter what, this ce was deserted and rural. Even if I killed a man, no one would know.


    This time, Chuyi didnt stop me.


    Dont kill me! Dont kill me! Ill tell you everything I know! Im Xiang Yuanzhen. Im an elder and consecrator of the Longquan Vi. You cant kill me Before the middle-aged man finished, my sword shed him.


    His head flew off. Blood spurted from his neck like water gushing from a broken pipe, sshing everywhere. My hands were still in the shing position, and half of my face had been dyed with his blood.


    It was the first time I had killed a person. At this moment, I felt a pleasure I had never experienced before.


    <em>Little boy, I, Zhang Jiulin, have taken revenge for you!</em>


    <em>Longquan Vi, from now on, only one of us will survive!</em>


    Chuyi helped me bury the corpse. Then, we searched the entire vige for Li Mazi and Li Meng. In the end, we found them locked in an abandoned house. They were starving. However, their lives were saved.


    Zhang Xuechengs ghost became calmer after the elder was killed. I used the letter Bai Xiya had left to convince him. In the end, he agreed to leave.


    We helped him ascend, and thisplicated case ended here.


    Except for the unexpected loss of the little Daoist boy, there were no other casualties. Anyway, I felt somewhat emotional seeing Zhang Xuechengs end.


    He had fame, wealth, and power, but he wasnt satisfied. He wanted more, which made him choose to be a traitor. That was why he worked for the Japanese.


    He was almost the spitting image of the rich, second-generation people and corrupt officials in this modern world.


    Fame and money, you couldn''t take them with you when you died. If you were too persistent to gain them, youd lose everything you once had.


    Dont be like Zhang Xuecheng. Dont let your name be dirtied for generations.

 Chapter 457: The Film Crew Deep in the Mountains

    Chapter 457: The Film Crew Deep in the Mountains


    Li Mazi and I took the 3 AM train back to Wuhan.


    When we returned to Wuhan, we ordered a big table of Southern foods and wolfed it down. We didnt like Northern food that much.


    The next day, Yin Xinyue came to my antique shop. She mysteriously beamed at me. Theres something I need your help with.


    I smiled. Did a friend of yours blindly collect something they shouldnt have?


    No. Ourpany recently invested in a martial-art-themed historical drama. Its almost time to start shooting, but the director is a very enthusiastic person, and hes afraid that the props dont look genuine enough. He asked the prop team to redo everything. The prop team leader was prepared to go to the museum to ask for help from an expert. However, a film crew has several hundred members, and besides the fees for filming, there are other expenses. Everything requires money. We cant bear that much. My boss was worried, so I thought of you. Do you have any antiques from the Ming dynasty? I want to borrow one or two items.


    I thought then told her, I have some items from the Ming dynasty. However, I only have otherworldly items. I cant bear the responsibility if anything bad happens to the film crew.


    What should we do then? The meals and amodation alone cost tens of thousands of renminbi a day, and I havent counted the site rental fee. Yin Xinyue sounded aggrieved. That stinky director is annoying


    I had a sh in my head. Oh right, you should find Li Mazi. He should have many antiques. Will they pay to rent antiques?


    Yin Xinyue nodded. Of course. This is business, after all. I wont mistreat Li Mazi.


    I called Li Mazi and told him about the situation. As soon as he heard that there would be money involved, he agreed.


    Then, I took Yin Xinyue out to eat. When we came back, we saw Li Mazi opening his pickup truck in front of my shop. I helped him move the items. Several big chests contained antiques from the Ming dynasty. There were swords, jades, artifacts, and even incense holders. How do you have so many antiques in your house?


    Ive been collecting them and storing them for a long time. I havent sold any. And, Ive been working with you in this business. Thats why those items were kept in my basement and have gathered dust, exined Li Mazi.


    If one day you dont want to work in this business anymore, you can just open an antique shop. Im sure these items are enough for you to live without worrying about making ends meet for the rest of your life, I said.


    Nope. 99% of these are fakes. me me for not having keen eyes at the time, Li Mazi whispered to my ear.


    Yin Xinyue took a good look at them.


    Are these enough? If not, I can bring you several more chests.


    Its enough. We wont use them to shoot the drama. The prop team needs them to make some replicas.


    Sister-inw, how about the rental fee? Li Mazi went straight to the point.


    We need to talk to the director. However, hes shooting deep in the mountains. Ill help you get there. I am still the Producer, so I have to go there once in a while, exined Yin Xinyue.


    How about we go all together and have a good talk with the crew? Itll also broaden my horizons. Ive watched so many dramas, but I have never seen a film studio before. Li Mazi made a face at me.


    I understood his idea. A drama would need at least a few months to shoot all the episodes. This one took ce in a rural, remote area. Moreover, the film crew would have more men than women, so I wouldnt be able to ease my mind if Yin Xinyue went there alone. That was why I agreed with Li Mazi. Yeah, I agree. After all, we dont have any business to do these days.


    Yin Xinyue blinked at me mischievously. Brother Zhang, are you worried that someone will try to woo me?


    Of course not! I waved my hands. How could I even think that? Im not worried at all.


    You dont feel worried? You mean that Im not that attractive? pouted Yin Xinyue.


    I didnt mean that!


    Yin Xinyue called the director. Meanwhile, Li Mazi happily said, I heard that there are many beauties in the film crew. Itll be a feast for my eyes.


    I shot him a disdainful nce. I thought he had suggested it because he was worried about Yin Xinyue, but it seemed I was wrong.


    Yin Xinyue booked the flight tickets. The film crew was in a small vige in Handan, Hebei. She called a car to transport the items to the airport. Although they were not that good, they were still valuable. Li Mazi got in his car and left. Yin Xinyue and I called another taxi. We would meet at the airport.


    After checking in, we took the flight at noon. One hourter, we arrived in Handan. However, it took the entire afternoon to reach that small town.


    I asked Yin Xinyue, Why doesnt the film crew shoot the drama in the Film and Television City? Why do they have to go to this remote area?


    Youll know when we get there. Theres a small, well-preserved town from the Ming dynasty. It has small, arched bridges above the stream. Its really beautiful. We had to exert a lot of effort in negotiations to rent the ce. This martial art drama has two parts. One will be filmed here, and the other part will be filmed in the Film and Television City.


    Its tough to make movies! I sighed.


    Yeah. Whenever Im shooting a movie, I only sleep for four or five hours a day, and I would always feel light-headed. Sometimes, we had to shoot the winter scenes in the summer and vice versa. Imagine this, you can only wear a single shirt in the winter in a ce thats minus five Celsius degrees, or you have to wear a puffer jacket in the scorching summer,ined Yin Xinyue.


    Li Mazi chimed in, Why do they have to do that? Why dont they shoot the summer scenes in the summer and winter scenes in the winter?


    A drama will be filmed in a few months. How can they wait for a year just to shoot some scenes? There is harshpetition in this business. They have to run with time. Otherwise, how could a movie starplete four or five dramas in a year?


    As we had started this topic, Yin Xinyue couldnt stop. She updated us with somemon knowledge of television dramas.


    China was a big country for TV programs and serials. Every year, there were more than ten thousand episodes of dramas produced. Tens of thousands of people worked in this industry, who dedicated their sweat and blood to the production. However, only a few dramas became famous each year. The rest werent popr, and hardly anybody knew their names. Whether a drama could make it depended on a lot of factors. Sometimes, even if one invested in famous actors or great directors, it could still be a poorly rated drama.


    At around 5:00 PM, we arrived in the small town where the film crew was based. It was a perfectly preserved small town from the Ming dynasty. The buildings had ancient roof tiles, and behind the town was a mountain. It also faced the river. It gave people a tranquil feeling. The director had chosen the perfect ce.


    There were many parked cars at the entrance of the small town. Some were private cars and some had the name of the filmpany printed on the body. A banner hung between the trees. It read Great martial art ancient costume drama filming location.


    I saw a lot of red confetti left by firecrackers on the ground. Yin Xinyue said that before they started to film, they bowed to Guan Yu. It was a custom from Hong Kong, butpanies from the Maind also did this practice. They thought it could guarantee the sess of their dramas.


    We got out of the car at the intersection. Yin Xinyue made a call. Not long afterward, an SUV came. A man got out of the car. Yin Xinyue introduced him as the team leader of the stage prop team; his name was Xu. Mr. Xu talked a few sentences to show his appreciation to us. We helped him move the stuff into his SUV and went to the small town with him.


    While the car was moving through the town, we saw some cranes. Yin Xinyue said that they were used to hold the steel cables. There were also some camera tracks that the staff used to assemble and shoot the scenes. A middle-aged man wearing a pair of sunsses sat there. He was discussing something with the other staff.


    The man in the sunsses is Director Zhang! said Yin Xinyue.


    Will we cause trouble for him if we stay here? I asked.


    Why dont you guys be walk-ons? Its okay to do some supporting roles, too. You can be the servants or the waiters. They only have a few lines. Yin Xinyue smiled.


    But we dont know how to act, I answered.


    Yin Xinyue started tough. Theres no need for acting skills. Its like the walk-on role, but you can show up more times.


    Do you think my image will be captured on camera?


    Sheughed. Its no problem. However, if you were too handsome, you would capture the whole scene, and the director wouldnt use you.


    Oh, girl. Youre hurting my heart! I clutched my chest.

 Chapter 458: The Broken Guan Yu Statue

    Chapter 458: The Broken Guan Yu Statue


    Yin Xinyue smiled. Brother Zhang, youll always be the most handsome man in my heart.


    I asked Li Mazi, Do you want to be a minor character?


    Li Maziughed. Its good to be on TV, isnt it? It gives me more chances to show my face. Li Meng would be proud when he goes to school! Its not like anyones father can be in a drama!


    Okay, Ill talk to the director. Yin Xinyue nodded.


    Right, where are we going to stay tonight? asked Li Mazi.


    Theres a bus that takes people from the filming location to the hotel. You can also stay in this town. All the houses are empty, said Yin Xinyue.


    Where are the people who used to live here? asked Li Mazi.


    Yin Xinyue smiled. They temporarily moved out. The film crew has rented the entire town! I often travel abroad to film, so I dont have a preference. Its up to you where you want to stay.


    If this small town had a bed, a pillow, and a nket, I could just spend the night here instead of taking a bus back to the hotel.


    Mr. Xu stopped the car in front of a barn. It was their makeshift prop storage. He called a few men to help him move the antiques. They would start making the props at night.


    We didnt disturb him and went to find the director. On the way, we saw arge, dried pool encircled by a police line. I asked Yin Xinyue, What happened there?


    Nothing much. They found some dead bodies, answered Yin Xinyue.


    What? I was shocked.


    Yin Xinyue hurried to exin. Its not what you think. Two days ago, this pool suddenly dried up, and a few old skeletons resurfaced.The film crew called the police, and theyter figured out that the bodies had been dead for a few hundred years. They even found some artifacts.


    Perhaps they were the remains of tomb robbers, Li Mazi added.


    I observed the shape of the mountain ranges around. This ce had good geomancy, which made it a fortunatend. I asked Yin Xinyue, Whats the most popr family name in this town?


    It should be the family name Gao! answered Yin Xinyue.


    I concluded that the residents of this town could be the descendants of tomb keepers. In ancient times, tomb keepers received a lot of benefits from the imperial court. For example, they were exempted from paying taxes, and they could receive some aid. Gradually, they formed a town here.


    It wasnt a good sign when a pool suddenly dried up. I hoped there wouldnt be any problems here. Otherwise, we would be like Conan, who found murder scenes everywhere he visited.


    Yin Xinyue introduced us to the director. Of course, she didnt tell him our real identities. She just said that we were antique businessmen.


    The director readily agreed to pay us the rental fee for the items.


    Then, he asked, Mr. Zhang, youve been in this antique business for years. Have you studied strange antiques?


    I recognized the hidden meaning behind his words. I frowned and asked, What kind do you mean, specifically?


    The kind that can change a persons fortune, the director said mysteriously.


    <em>Is he talking about an</em><em>otherworldly item?</em> My interest was raised. I do know a thing or two about this kind of artifact.


    Thats great, then! He sounded excited. Could you check this item for me?


    After I agreed, the director led us to a small room. I saw a small altar on the table, but there was no God statue on it. He then took out a red fabric bag from a drawer. When he opened the bag, I saw a broken Guan Yu statue.


    This is an antique my teacher gave me. Its miraculous. Thanks to its protection, my works these years have been famous and sold very well. Two days ago, it suddenly broke into pieces. Im worried as this cant be a good sign! The director sounded worried.


    When did it break? I asked.


    After the booting ceremony. I didnt dare to tell anyone as I didnt want to scare them, said the director.


    I picked up the broken statue and studied it. From the details, this statue wasnt really old. It was made with modern technology. I guessed that it was mostly a psychological thing, and the item wasnt a treasure.


    However, it wasnt a good sign that the Guan Yu statue was broken. It could prove that a powerful spirit was around that even the Martial God Guan Yu couldnt suppress.


    Has anything strange happened to the film crew these days? I asked.


    Something strange? The director thought then answered, Nothing of the sort, but we had an unexpected incident. Two days ago, the main male lead had a car ident. He broke his legs in the incident. I didnt have any other solution, so I had to rece him with the second male lead.


    How haven''t I heard about this? Yin Xinyue was shocked.


    Ms. Yin, you werent here at that time.


    Did it happen after the pool incident? I got an important clue.


    Yes, it did. The director nodded. Then, the way he looked at me changed. He looked as though he was talking to an old immortal who could predict everything.


    I mentally raised an eyebrow. I took out a business card from my pocket and gave it to him. Actually, I work in this business.


    The director received the card and looked puzzled. May I ask what an otherworldly item is?


    I gave him a brief exnation. The director was delighted. Sir, I think my Guan Yu statue is also an otherworldly item. I hope you can fix it.


    I didnt know if I should cry orugh. First, his statue wasnt an otherworldly item. Secondly, I couldnt repair antiques. However, I knew how strong psychological effects could be, especially in this case. After all, the drama had just started filming a few days ago, and I shouldnt make them worried.


    I convinced him and told him that I could perform a magic ritual to invite Guan Yus spirit to enter another statue and protect him and his production. The director appreciated me a lot.


    After saying goodbye to him, Li Mazi said, This director is funny. Thats just a cheap statue that can be bought on the street, and hes made it his treasure. If thats a real antique, the pickle jar in my house is a national-level, protected artifact


    Tomorrow, well go to town to buy a few things, I answered indifferently.


    Little Brother Zhang, are you trying to be polite to me? You can just tell me what to buy, said Li Mazi.


    No, I also want to ask around for more information! I answered.


    At night, we had dinner in a big courtyard. The chef of the film crew cooked a big table of food. However, Li Mazi and I didnt know anyone but Yin Xinyue, so we sat with her.


    All the people here were from the movie crew. There were no famous actors or actresses around. When the men started drinking together, they then bragged about the celebrities they had worked with before. Afterward, they started to discuss some showbiz rumors. Everything was very exciting to me, which changed my understanding of some directors and famous movie stars.


    The world of entertainment is really exciting, I told Yin Xinyue.


    Well, movie stars are also humans, and humans arent perfect. Since Im here tonight, they are somewhat embarrassed, so they havent discussed the more disgusting rumors. Yin Xinyue smiled at me.


    Dear, do you want to go to the toilet now? I teased her.


    You should go first! Yin Xinyueughed and punched me.


    After dinner, a staff member took us to a house that had two bedrooms. The view and rooms were nice. As we didnt have anything to entertain ourselves at night, we turned off the lights and went to bed early.


    I shared a room with Li Mazi. He had drunk a lot, and he started to snore loudly soon after, which made me unable to sleep. Yin Xinyue suddenly sent me a message. Brother Zhang,e here!


    I put on more clothes and walked to her room. Yin Xinyue covered herself in a nket, and her face was pale. I was sleeping. Then, I felt something blowing air on my face. I was so scared that I woke up. I also heard footsteps outside my door!


    I looked through the window and saw that pool outside. I was certain that there was something strange inside. Yin Xinyue hugged me. Im scared. Brother Zhang, please stay with me.


    Okay! Im going to get something from my room, I said.


    Yin Xinyue didnt want me to leave, so I turned on the light and found a bag of salt on the shelf. The salt had hardened. I crushed the salt and sprinkled it on the windowsill and the threshold.


    I then found a kerosenemp. I wiped some soot off the ss bulb and smeared it on Yin Xinyues shoulders and be.


    As Iy next to her, she weakly asked me, Is it okay now?


    Yeah, even if there are wandering ghosts, they will ignore this room. However


    I was about to say that they would find Li Mazi when I heard him scream. Oh shoot! Help! There is a ghost!

 Chapter 459: Chili Water Subdues the Wandering Ghosts

    Chapter 459: Chili Water Subdues the Wandering Ghosts


    Li Mazi charged into the room with a horrified face. When he saw me lying with Yin Xinyue on the bed, he was enraged. Little Brother Zhang, you are simply too unreasonable! You left me alone in that room while youre here hugging the beauty to sleep!


    What happened?


    An icy-cold hand touched my face. When I opened my eyes, I saw a pale face. That person wore ancient-styled silk clothes and loomed over me. I almost got a heart attack and ran to your room as fast as possible.


    I now noticed that he wasnt wearing any shoes. He was really in a sorry state.


    Ancient-styled silk clothes?


    I suddenly realized something and felt like cursing. This house was haunted. The film crew didnt dare to stay here, so they made us spend the night here instead.


    That ghost could be one of the old skeletons in the pool. That pool has strong Yin power, and since theyve been trapped there for hundreds of years, the ghosts also have strong resentful energy now. As the pool has dried up, they are free to wreak havoc.


    How should we spend the night? asked Li Mazi.


    We cant all share one room. Come with me. Were going to help them ascend!


    Then, Li Mazi and I walked back to our room. We put on more clothes and took out some tools. I told Yin Xinyue toe looking for us in a while.


    Since I thought that this was going to be a simple trip, I didnt bring many things with me. I only had the Sirius Whip and some talismans.


    As such, I wanted to find materials in this ce. Li Mazi looked tense and followed closely behind me.


    I found a big iron pot in the kitchen and put it upside down. Then, I used a knife to scrape the soot off its bottom. I collected the soot, wrapped it in a piece of paper, and put it in my pocket.


    A few strings of dried chilies and garlic were hung under the eaves. I took one string of each and asked Li Mazi to hold them. I then found a chopping knife and held it firmly. It was better than having nothing.


    Li Mazi teased, General, the pretty girls still working in the room.


    Why isnt Yin Xinyue here yet?


    I turned to look at the room. The light was off. My heart sank when I saw that Yin Xinyue hadnte out of the house.


    I rushed back to the bedroom and found that we had inadvertently wiped off the line of salt on the ground. The window was open. Yin Xinyue was silently walking toward the pool as if she was bewitched.


    I called her, but she didnt react. I got close to the window and jumped out to save her when a pair of cold hands grabbed my face. Even the hairs on my back stood up.


    You asked for it! Li Mazi, give me the mineral water bottle!


    Li Mazi hurried to fetch a mineral water bottle and handed it to me through the window.


    I told him to crush some chilies and garlic cloves. I then put them all into the water bottle and shook the contents. I took a mouthful of the liquid and sprayed it directly into the air!


    Instantly, a shadow appeared in the air. Its body twisted as though it was being burned. We could even see the me. The shadow shrieked strangely, then floated toward the woods and disappeared. Li Mazi watched everything and dropped his jaw in awe. Incredible! Little Brother Zhang, its the first time Ive seen the awesome effects of chilies!


    I didnt have time to exin. I took more sips and sprayed the water on both sides of the chopping knife. The chili water was so spicy that my mouth felt like it was on fire. Li Mazi and I ran to the pool.


    Yin Xinyue was squatting in the pool. She was reaching for something in the mud with her bare hands, her face nk.


    The two of us directly jumped into the dried pool. Li Mazi suddenly pulled me and pointed at the mud. I saw fresh footprints on the damp mud. I focused and saw two people wearing ancient clothes. They were moving around with their heads held low. They seemed to be looking for something.


    I handed the water bottle to Li Mazi and took out the Sirius Whip. I started tosh it at the two figures. The two ghosts were scared and fled.


    I stepped on the muddy bottom of the pool to reach Yin Xinyue. I held the chopping knife and moved it in front and behind her a few times. Yin Xinyue woke up and asked in surprise, Brother Zhang? Why am I digging mud here?


    You were bewitched, I said with a serious face.


    What? Yin Xinyue gawked in shock.


    Li Mazi said, This pool is too strange. Tomorrow, you should tell that director to call some people to fill it.


    If you fill it, then the wild, wandering ghosts wont have a shelter. They would trouble people even more. Look behind you. I pointed to the space behind Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue.


    They looked in the direction of my finger, where three ghosts were wandering. Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue couldnt see the ghosts, but they could see the newly formed footprints on the soft mud. Of course, the footprints were very shallow, and they soon disappeared.


    Two wandering ghosts suddenly bumped into each other, and they started to fight. Some signs of their fight appeared in the mud. Li Mazi asked, Whats going on over there?


    They are looking for something. Or, they arepeting against each other to obtain something. There are three of them. My guess is that they were tomb robbers who killed each other over some grave goods. They all died here, I said.


    What is the treasure that they have kept in mind for so long? Its sad that they cant forget about it even in death! Li Mazi sighed.


    I rubbed my face. <em>Why did those ghosts</em><em>grab</em><em>peoples faces?</em>


    <em>Were they repeating a movement they did before they died? Were they checking the face of a corpse...?</em>


    I nced at the big mountain behind me. I had some thoughts, but I couldnt verify them yet.


    We should head back inside! I waved my hands and urged the other two.


    Those three ghosts were rather weak. I didnt want to waste my Ksitigarbha Talismans on them.


    I burned the chilies and garlic into ashes, then added some refined salt to the mix; the smoke made me cry due to its spiciness. I then used the ashes to draw a circle around the house.


    Although I had set up protection around the house, Yin Xinyue didnt dare to sleep alone. She asked me to stay with her. Li Mazi was scared, too. I gave him the chopping knife and asked him to put it under his pillow as it would protect him but, in truth, I was just coaxing him.


    I woke up early the next morning and sat idly in the courtyard. After Yin Xinyue woke up, she came to me and said, Didnt you want to go to town to ask for more information?


    Xinyue, you told me that after the film crew found the skeletons and cultural relics, they called the police. Did anybody take photos of the artifacts before the police took them? I asked.


    I dont know. How about we ask some people from the film crew? suggested Yin Xinyue.


    Forget it. If those cultural relics were taken by the police, it was useless to even think about them.


    At around 8:00 AM, we finished breakfast with the film crew. Then, we headed to the town. When we reached the entrance of the small town, we saw a ck RV parked by the road. I was certain it was the private car of an actor or actress.


    The car door slid open, and a slender and handsome man wearing a candy pink shirt and a pair of tight ck jeans jumped out of the car. He even had a pair of sunsses hooked at his cor. From his movements and style, he gave people a somewhat feminine feeling.


    Is that really him? Li Mazi palmed his forehead and said excitedly, Thats Yi Xi! Hes starred in many dramas!


    Hes the protagonist of this drama, said Yin Xinyue.


    Yi Xi smiled at us. I caught a wisp of perfume exuding from him. He raised his slender fingers and greeted us. Hello, sister Yin, long time no see. Ive missed you so much.


    Hey, long time no see. What have you been doingtely? asked Yin Xinyue.


    Just puttering around! And these two gentlemen are


    Yin Xinyue introduced me and Li Mazi. As soon as he heard that I was Yin Xinyues fianc, Yi Xi revealed a contemptuous look. Sister Yin, you have excellent qualities, and you can definitely find a better man. Why would you stick to some greedy antique merchant? Does your familyck money


    I immediately became enraged. I didnt care if he was a great star. It was low of him to insult people right in their faces like this! What do you know about me? Dont you think its rude of you to make such remarks?


    He reached his hand out and patted my shoulder. Mr. Zhang, I was just joking. Dont keep it in your mind. Do you have paper and a pen? Ill give you my signature. Just consider it as mypensation, okay?


    My face twitched. <em>Who</em><em>the hell does he think he is</em><em>? He</em><em>s so arrogant</em><em>!</em>


    Yin Xinyue pulled me. Were going to town to run some errands. Well part here. See you.


    Okay, see you at the filming location.


    Before we left, Yi Xi threw Yin Xinyue a seductive look. He thought that I didnt catch it, but I did!

 Chapter 460: The Prince of Lanling

    Chapter 460: The Prince of Lanling


    Yin Xinyue sounded embarrassedand exined. Wevecooperated in a drama before.Wejust have anormal friendship. Please dont misunderstand.


    I wont.


    Although Iforted her, I stillfound that guy veryirritating.No matter what, I would never have anything to do with this sort of person.


    Li Mazi said, Why do I always feelhes somewhatfeminine? Is he gay?


    Shhh! Yin Xinyue signaled at Li Mazi to lower his voice. Do not say that in front of him, ever!One time,an assistant joked that he wasnt manly enough. Asa result, Yi Xiwas soenragedthathe didnt join the filming for a whole week. At that time,thepany sufferedtens of thousands ofrenminbiin losses.


    Wewentto town to buy some supplies for theing days. We also bought a pound of eels, a rooster, yellow papers, and salt. I saw theysolda line markerthat carpenters used,so I boughtthat too. After the encounterst night, I thought I should be prepared.


    Then, I went to get a Guan Yu statue for the director.


    Sir, do you know if any memberofthe royalfamily is buriedin this ce? I asked the old man who sold the statues in front of a temple.


    Oh, this ce has excellentgeomancy. I heard that they buried the Prince of Lanling in the mountain! The old man sounded proud.


    The peddler selling roast sweetpotatoesturned to refute his idea. Dont listen to him.The Prince of Lanlings tomb is in Ci County. When did ite here?


    The two then began to quarrel. We didnt want to join, so we quietlyleft.


    Along the way, I told Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue, I guessthe thing the three ghosts were searching forst night is the Great Mask of the Prince of Lanling! Thats why they touched our faces.


    The princes real name was Gao Changgong. He wasa member of the Northern Qis royal family during the Northern and Southern Dynasties. He was a famous high-ranking general in history.


    Legend said that he was born with a feminine appearancebut withtheheart ofa lion.Every time he walked out his door, womenfeltinfatuated with him, and he wasfamous in history because of his good looks.However, he wasstill ageneral who had toleadhis army. His beautiful appearance couldnt help him earn respect from his soldiers.Moreover,his enemiesughed at himand saidthat Northern Qi didnt have any good men to send to the battlefield, so they had to send aprettyboy instead.


    Thus, whenever he fought in a battle, heworea gruesome, ghostly mask. In a well-known battle where Northern Qi wassurrounded by enemies, heheaded to the besieged city withfive hundred men, killingeveryone in his path.The soldiers that guarded the city didnt know who he was. When he took off his mask, people recognized he was the Prince of Lanling. Immediately, their fighting spirit was boosted. They killed their enemys army and secured the city.


    Later on, the soldiers spread a song to praise their invincible Princeof Lanling. It was the famousssic,Lanling Prince in Battle.To this day, Japanese people stillperformthat danceand address the Prince of Lanlingas the PrettyDemonPrince.


    The prince lived his lifeas alegend. He was also popr with the ordinaryfolks. A few years ago, they made a drama about him.Some people didnt know where the Northern Qi dynasty wassituatedin the timeline of history, but they all knew of the Prince of Lanling!


    LittleBrother Zhang, are you sure? Li Mazi was excited.


    Pretty sure, around 80 or 90%. Moreover, I have a feeling that the mask isnt in the police station.


    Howdidyou conclude that?


    If they found the great mask of the Prince of Lanling, the press would have had a lot of things to tell about it. I oftenkeep an eye onthis sort of news. However, Ihavent seen or heard about it yet.


    The mask couldstillbe onthe mountain.Another possibility was that it wasin the hands ofsomeone in the film crew. I hoped itwasthetter!


    But the uncle selling sweet potatoes said that theprinces tomb is in Ci County,saidYin Xinyue.


    Perhaps its just a fake burial mound.History details in books are sometimes wrong. I believe in my eyes more than the books! Anyway, when we get back to the filming location, wemayfind something, I said.


    Li Mazi soundedhappy. I cant believe we might haveanunexpected harveston atrip like this. We should travel more often!


    Nothing is certain yet. Dont be excited too early.


    We had lunch in town beforewe returnedto the filming location.When we arrived there in the afternoon,we saw people walking back and forth in the small town.People were wearingancient costumes. I was surprised.


    It turned out the filming had started. Those people were the walk-ons.


    Yi Xi put on an ancient costume. He was acting in a small inn with the other actors. Although I didnt have a good first impression of him, his acting was professional. Itwaspletely different fromhow he acted before.


    In this scene, the enemy came to find the protagonists father to take revenge, and they bumped into the protagonist in the inn. The protagonist decided to give them a lessonand make fun ofthem.


    When their conversationreachedthe climax, Yi Ximmedthe table and took out his sword.


    I thought that they would fight, butthe director suddenly called, Cut!


    They always use stunt doubles for the fighting scenes. Yi Xi has never yed the action scenes himself, exined Yin Xinyue.


    While his assistant was busy serving him, taking off his coat,and wiping his sweat, Yi Xi twisted a bottle capand drankhis mineral water. He then sneered. Director, what kind of actors have you hired for this drama? Can they even act? Im afraid I will lose my faceif I cooperatewith them.


    I admired this kid.It was as if hehad two faces. How he appeared indramaswas very different from how he was inreality. He could shift between them so naturally.


    The supporting actors looked irritated. However, they didnt retort as they were afraid of Yi Xi. Onlyone man mumbledsomething.


    Yi Xi heard that. He smashed the mineral water bottle in his handand pointedat that mam, scolding,You damn supporting role, what did you justsayabout me? You dont want to work in this business anymore?


    The supporting actor blushed in embarrassment. Watch your words. Moreover,who got toythelead roleat their first try? We are all actors, so why do you have to look down on us? And, dont you remember how you got this protagonist role? I think you know it well.


    Yi Xis face darkened immediately. I dare you to repeat that!


    When he said that,his face seemed to turn into that of another person for an instant.It wastheferocious face of a ghost.


    The director and producer came over todeescte the situation.A man in a ck suit took Yi Xi awayand tried to calmhim. They looked close, and I felt they hada very good rtionship. However, Yi Xiwas still angry.


    Who is that? I asked Yin Xinyue.


    Xiao Song, Yi Xis agent, answered Yin Xinyue.


    After a short break, the shooting resumed. A stunt doublewearingthe same costumeasYi Xifoughtagainst the supporting roles. Yi Xi was chattinganughing with his agent. He didnt even watch the scene.


    Yi Xi took the stage after the fighting scene, and they shot a few close-up scenes.If we addedthe editing workter, it would look like heacted inthat fighting scene.


    I made a rough calction. This fighting scene in the inn wouldappear on TV foraround five minutes, but it took more than two hours to film, excluding the time for preparations before the scene. It wasnt easy to shoot a drama.


    The director calledCutand let peopletakea break. The actors then scattered.


    All of a sudden, a loud noise came from the studio tent followed by someone screeching.


    Everybodywent overto the tent. It turned out one of the big rocker arms of the camera suddenly fell off.Acamera that was dozens of kilograms fell right on an actor. Coincidently, it was theactor who hadjustquarreledwith Yi Xi.


    Yi Xi stood in the innand slowlytwisted the cap of his mineral bottle. Hetook a sip, and acold sneer hung at the corner of his mouth.Onceagain, I saw the ferocious ghost faceovephis face.


    I wapletelysure that this man hadaproblem!

 Chapter 461: The Masks Whereabouts

    Chapter 461: The Mask''s Whereabouts


    Many peoplewentto check on the actorscondition. We alsowent.Sincea heavy camera had fallen right on his head, he was unconscious at thismoment. A pool ofbloodformed onthe floor, and although he was still breathing, he would have to liein bed for quite a long time.


    While someone calledthe ambnce,IpulledLi Mazi and Yin Xinyue asideand said, Guys, I have something I need to tell you. But dont be scared.


    Whats wrong, Brother Zhang? Yin Xinyue was curious.


    I told them my assumption.The great mask of the Prince of Lanling is with Yi Xi!


    Sincethe first encounter, I had felt the heavy Yin energyaroundhim. Then,Isawthe gruesome ghost face ovep with his. It wasas if he was wearingamask.


    However, I didnt know how thePrinceof Lanlingsmask worked or how he got it.


    Can you think aboutasolution? If things like this keep happening, wewont be able tofilm this drama, and allthemoney weve poured into itwill go in vain, said Yin Xinyue.


    Its not like I canYi Xiaboutit. Im sure he wont ever admit it.Plus,if we offend him, something unexpectedcouldhappen to us. Its more of a loss than a gain.Wellneedthehelp from someone with great credit in this film crew, I suggested.


    That person was none other thanthe director!


    I had toletthe director know that there was something wrong withYi Xi. I asked Yin Xinyue to help me. Tonight, Id y the part of theswindler!


    The director was always busy. We had toheadback to our courtyard and wait for him. When the night fell, Li Mazi and I went to the pond broughtsome stuffwith us.


    Li Mazi wasnt pleased. Why do we have tehere?


    Were going to capture some ghosts.


    Then, I took out the Guan Yu statue from my bag and put it on the ground. I mumbled Sorry to the statue and used a red fabric band to blindfold him.


    I cut the eels and smeared the eel bloodoverthe statue,puttingitat the side of the pool. I thenadvised Li Mazi, When the statue moves, you have to untie the blindfold.


    I mixed chili powder with salt and put the mixture into a jar. Then, I walkedaround the pool andsprinkledthe mixture.


    Although this pool was dried up, it wasrge. It took me almost an hour to sprinkle the spicy powder. Some footprints started to appear on the ground. I continued to sprinkle the chili powder. The footprints then appeared inanarea that didnt have the powder. Ished the Sirius Whip a few times, and awisp ofcoldwind left the pool.


    Its moving! Li Mazi screamed by the pool side.


    Hurry, untie the red blindfold!


    I rushed back to the pool side. The Guan Yu statue was still shaking.


    Li Mazi was surprised. LittleBrother Zhang, what is the principlebehindthis?


    Its simple. I trapped the three ghostsfromthe poolinto the GuanYustatue, I exined.


    What? Youdisrespected the god! Li Mazi wasshocked.


    Im going to break the statue, too. I have an to makeYi Xibreak the statuein front ofthe director!


    I knew it was a little disrespectful, but I had to use Guan Yu to convince the director. It wouldalsomakeYi Xi show hisws. Aftereverything was over, Inned togoto Guan Yustemple to make donationsof incenseand oil tpensate for mydisrespectful behavior.


    Since the statue had strong Yang energy, the three ghosts couldnt escape. They kept struggling inside the statue.


    I burned some paper money for themandcoldlysaid, Doyou want that mask? You shouldbe honest with me. Or else, Ill imprison you here forever.


    After I said that, the ghosts stopped moving. I picked up the Guan Yu statue. It felt heavier than before.


    Li Mazi and I carried the statue to the directors room. As nned, Yin Xinyue was chatting with the director to makesure that hestayed in the room. When he saw us carryingthe statue, he stood up to greet us.


    Mr. Zhang, where did yougetthis Guan Yu statue?


    In the town, but you dont have to worry.Ive invited the spirit from your broken statue to stay in thisone. I smiled gently.


    The director half-bought it.Icarefully ced the statue on the altar and burned three joss sticks.


    Hows the actor thatwas injuredthis afternoon? I asked.


    He is no longer in danger, but the doctor told me that he has a concussion. He needs to rest for a while. The directoroffered uscigarettes, but we gently declined.


    He sighed.Our film crew has a few hundred people, and theyre afraid that something unexpected might happen when we shoot the drama. Mr. Zhang, Miss Yin told me that youhavea lot of items that canchangeonesfortune. This year, I always feel unlucky. Could you sell something to me?


    Its true that otherworldly items can change your fortune, but the price the users have to pay is really high. If youre careless, unexpecteddisasterscan happen. I tried tosteerthe topic into another direction. Actually, I think your fate and fortune are really good. You dont needto add anything, just do some subtracting.


    Mr. Zhang,what should I subtract?Is there anything bad around me? asked the director.


    I dont want to hide it from you. Someone in your film crew possesses an extremely dangerous otherworldly item. Thatswhy an unexpectedincident happened this afternoon, I told him mysteriously.


    Im listening! the director pricked up his ears.


    Ill ask you something first. These days, has Yi Xi changed?


    Why do you ask? I dont think so. The director looked puzzled. He shookhis head.


    Is there anything else that has changed? I continued.


    The director contemted. Oh yeah. Inthe beginning, we thought he wasnt a perfect choice for the male protagonist.Duringhis first audition, I thought that he had a feminine aura that wasnt suitable for themanlyprotagonist. When Ilistedhis shorings, he was mad at me.Sigh, hes a talented kid, buthis temperament is really bad.


    What happened after that?


    His agent implored meand askedme to give Yi Xi another audition. I gave him another chance.The secondtime, the feeling he brought waspletely different. He acted perfectly, andI made him my male protagonist! The director still felt strange when he said that.


    I guessed it was because Yi Xi hadgottenthe mask.


    ThePrince of Lanling was veryhandsome, and hecked masculine features.That waswhy he always wore a ferocious, ghostly mask. Froma certain point of view, this mask could give people confidence.


    However, I knew it didnt just offerconfidence.


    All right, Illtell you. Theres something wrong with Yi Xi! I told the director.


    Mr. Zhang, what do you mean?Do youdoubt myeyes? Idont make mistakeswhen I choose my actors and actresses. The director didnt sound pleased.


    No, no, youvemisunderstood. Im not talking about his acting skills. He has somethingevilwith him. To check it, can you call him here? As long as he enters this room, youll see, I said.


    The director half-believedandhalf-doubtedme. He called Yi Xiand toldhim that he needed to discuss the script with him. Yi Xi agreed toe.


    Yi Xi would always bring that mask with him. As long as he entered the room, the three ghosts would beexcited and break thestatue. The director would see the problem then.


    Soon, Yi Xi came in. He smiled and said,Director,why did you call me here sote?I justremoved my make-upandwas aboutto return to the hotel.


    When he saw us, he was a little surprised.Oh, you told me toetodiscuss the script. Why are theseguyshere?


    Incedat the statue. It didnt move.Yi Xiisntkeeping the mask on his person?


    Mr. Zhang said that he needed to see you. Mr. Zhang, you should tell him yourself. The director smiled embarrassedly.


    I wasat a loss. While I was trying to find an excuse, Yi Xis agent came in. The Guan Yu statue on the altar began to shake hard. After a short crackle, the statuebroke intocountless pieces. A wispof coldwind escaped the statue.


    As soon as the three ghosts escaped, they plunged toward the agent. However,right whenthey were about to reach him, they perishedand disappearedas if they had banged into a deadly, invisible wall.


    Everybody in the room saw the statuebreak. The director was bewildered. Hiseyesrepeatedly shiftedbetween the statue and the agent. Xiao Song, are you keeping something bad with you?


    The agent said, Im not. Director,why are you doubting me?Im sure those swindlers have done something to the statue.


    Then, he turned and left. I stepped forward to stop him. You can go and check the statue to see if Ihavedone anything to it! If not, youre the problem! Do you dare to show us the thing youre hiding beneath your clothes?


    The agent instinctively pulled his cor togetherand triedto look calm. Nonsense. I dont know what youre talking about.

 Chapter 462: Homosexual Love

    Chapter 462: Homosexual Love


    I was certain that the agenthadthe mask. I told him, You dont know the power of that thing. Although it can give yousome benefitsfor a short period, the more you use it, the more dangerous it will be. Sooner orter, you will be trapped to death.


    The agents face turned pale, but he still denied it. Suddenly, Yi Xishouted,Who the hell do you think you are? Howcanyou keep babbling? You evenmadethe director your cushion. You stinky swindler! Sister Yin, I feel so sorrythatyour man is like this!


    Yi Xihada foul mouth. I really wanted top him in the face. However, I rememberedwhat had happened tothe supporting actor, soI didnt dare to mess with him. I had tohold back.


    Yi Xi snorted. Agent Song told him, We should go! No need to mind them!


    After the two left the room, the director asked, M-Mr. Zhang, are you sure Yi Xi has something evil with him?


    Im sure. I nodded.


    What should we do then?


    I sighed. We couldnt just force them and seize the item. If we provoked him, the situation would get worse. I told the director, You should keep an eye on him. Dont enrage him, no matter what. That is if you dont want trouble.


    Yourethe expert here. Canyou findawayto solve this case thoroughly? asked the director.


    Its simr to giving treatment to a patient. If that patient doesnt want to be treated, the doctor cant do anything.


    But if we waited until his sickness became more intense, more unexpected idents would happen here.I felt my head swelling up.


    Afterwe leftthe directors room, Yin Xinyue pulled my shirton our way back to the courtyard.Brother Zhang, I have a secret I want to tell you, but you should never spread the news, okay?


    Okay. I nodded.


    Yi Xi is gay.


    Impossible! Li Mazi gawked. Iused Baidu to search for his information this morning. Hes a yboy! He has a scandal every six months!


    Those are fake news. When we worked together in a drama before, he told me that he likes men. Hes been like that since he was young. Thats why he has low self-esteem issues, said Yin Xinyue.


    Whyhasnthee out of the closet? I asked.


    Its not that easy. No matter what, hes a celebrity, and he needs to maintain his image. At the same time, he has so manyfangirls. If other peopleknowthat hes gay, all hiseffort might goin vain.


    Its tough to live the life of a star, I said.All right, if you say so. Then, his agent and him


    I guess they are a couple, said Yin Xinyue. She smiledmischievously.


    I thought so, too. Unless they had a close rtionship, one would never show that hehadan otherworldly item tosomeone else. Moreover, the agent kept the mask.


    Whyhasnthe consulted a psychiatrist? He doesntck money. Our proverb says,Among the three causes thatkeepa man fropletinghis filialduty,having no descendant is the worst cause.If my little Mengturns out to begay, Iwillbreak his legs! said Li Mazi.


    Yin Xinyue and I shot him a despising look. If you say that to an actualhomosexual person, you will be beatento death.


    Li Mazi wore a puzzled face. Did I say something wrong?


    I was toozy to debate with him. Li Mazi belonged to the generation of thosewithconservative mindsets. They were not able to ept this. Recently, China has been affected by EuropeanandAmerican cultures. People gradually epted the existence of homosexuality.


    Even Tim Cook,the CEO of Apple,admitted that he was gay.


    My personal view is thatit''speoples freedom and right to like men or women. As for myself, my brain was full ofYin Xinyue!


    Wereturnedto our roomsand boiledsome water to wash our faces before going to sleep. Ijokingly said toLi Mazi, Im going to sleep with you tonight!


    Cutitout! I knowyou will sneak outer.You should just stay with my sister-inw. I sleep well alone.However,please keep it low! Li Mazisaid with sadness.


    Go away! Iughedandshooedhim.


    Yin Xinyue hadnt slept yet. She was sitting on the bed, ying with her phone. I went to the kitchen to fetch a basin of warm water for her to soak her feet in.Yin Xinyue was touched.While I was giving her afootmassage,she asked,Why do you treat me so well?


    I should do so.


    Whilewe were chatting, the light in our room shed. We heardsome movementsfrom the back of the courtyard. Yin Xinyue hugged my armand said,Could it be a thief?


    Onlythe film crew members stay here. Im going to check it out, I told her.


    Dont leave me alone. Im scared. Yin Xinyueshivered.


    Okay,you caewith me! I grabbed a wooden stickand pushedthe door open. Yin Xinyue followed closely behind me.


    The bright moonlight illuminated the entire courtyard. I scanned aroundandheard some noises from the roof. I lifted my head and saw a figure standing on the roof of the house.


    That personworeshining gold armor, as well asa scarlet cape. His skin was fair and his hair was long. Thegruesomemask onhis face wasespeciallystriking!


    Yin Xinyue screamed in fright. I sweated, too.He was the Prince ofLanling!


    I gave Yin Xinyue the wooden stick and took out my Sirius Whip. The figure jumped from the roofandndedfirmly on the ground. Before hegotup, Iused all of mystrength tosh him! However,he grabbed the whip easily and pulled it, dragging meto the ground.


    He took out his shining swordand aimed it atme. In this death-or-life situation, I resolutely threw the Sirius Whip aside and grabbed the sword with my bare hands.


    I thought it would be really painful, but when my handsgot in contactwith the sharp-edged sword, it didnt feel sharp at all. I just used a little force and the swordbroke


    Shoot, it looks imposing, but its just a prop!


    The masked man threw the broken sword awayand stompedon my stomach. His kick was strong. Inded on my buttandalmostvomitedblood.


    BrotherZhang! Yin Xinyue wanted to help me.


    Run! I urged her.


    The masked man grabbed Yin Xinyues armand pushedher aside. Yin Xinyue tried to hit and kick him, but he didnt bat an eye.


    Seeing the way he was dealingwith Yin Xinyue, I thundered in rage. YiXi, dont think that I cant recognize youjust becauseyourewearinga mask!


    An odd series ofughter arose from under the mask. I was baffled. That voice didnt soundlike Yi Xisor his agents voice.


    He grabbed my neckand liftedme from the ground. I couldnt breatheand struggled hard.


    How strongis this person?! Heliftedme upwith one hand!


    Li Mazi came to help, but he was petrifiedwhen he saw thescene. I had touse thest bit ofmy strength to call him. Help!


    Li Mazi looked around and picked up a y jar. He slowly approached the masked man from behind.


    Bam!


    Li Mazismashedthe y jar on the masked mans head. Pieces of the jarflew everywhere, butthe masked man didnt react. It wasas if he wasnt hurt at all. Slowly, he turned tolook atLi Mazi.Feeling embarrassed, Li Mazi smiled sheepishly at him.


    H-Hello!


    The masked man punched Li Mazischest. Li Mazi screechedandwas sent flying to the backof theroom like asandbag.


    As he was dealingwith Li Mazi, I seized the time andreached to grab the Sirius Whipfromthe ground. However, I couldnt pull it as the masked manwassteppingon it. Heraisedhis other leg to kick me. Luckily, I dodged his attackin time.


    Wehave to take his mask off!


    While I was still thinking, the masked man picked up the Sirius Whip. The Sirius Whip was made ofwolf-skinfrom Outer Mongolia. In theory,zombiesand ghosts didnt dare to touch it. If he could grab the whip with his bare hand, it meanthe wasnt possessed. He still had his sanity.


    I hurried tocallhim.Yi Xi. Handsome Yi, we can talk. Were here to help. We dont want to harm you.


    The masked man didnt react. He wielded the whipandshedat my arm. Immediately, a streak of blood appeared on my arm. It was so painful that I had to gasp for my breath.


    I thoughtaboutthemany ghosts and monsters that I had destroyed with the Sirius Whip. Tonight, someone was using it to hit me. Was this karma?

 Chapter 463: ‘Lanling Prince in Battle Song

    Chapter 463: ¡®Lanling Prince in Battle'' Song


    The masked man was like a hotshot in the world of martial arts. The Sirius Whip in his hand moved imposingly. The three of us couldnt deal with him.


    Yin Xinyue said, Brother Zhang, quickly find a solution!


    What solution would work right now? Run!


    I remembered that Li Mazi had been punched back into the room. I called him, but there was no answer. I realized that he had crawled away through the window.


    Lingering for a moment had earned me a few whips. I flinched in pain.


    I pulled Yin Xinyue and ran away from the courtyard.


    As soon as we left the courtyard, the masked man screamed and jumped on the wall of the fence. He aimed the whip in his hand at me. It seemed I was his only target.


    We should part now! I told Yin Xinyue.


    No, I cant leave you! Yin Xinyue answered.


    Go and get some help. The two of us cant deal with him! I told her. Yin Xinyue eventually agreed, then made a turn at a small alley.


    I tried my best to run through small alleys as the whip wouldn''t reach me there. The masked man kept running on the rooftops. This scene looked even more thrilling than a fight and chase scene between two martial arts experts.


    I gradually slowed down. The masked mannded in front of me. The whip in his hand was like a slithering snake; it kept spinning around. Instinctively, I raised both arms to parry the iing blow. The whip coiled around my wrists.


    As I had often used the whip, I knew his n. He wanted to pull me down. Immediately, I stepped on the whip to hold it and uncoiled it from my wrists. Afterward, I ran in the opposite direction.


    The masked man wielded the whip and forcefully hit my back. The pain made me scream.


    At this moment, I felt lucky that my weapon was a whip. If it was a sword, I didnt know how many times I would have died today.


    My phone rang. It was Yin Xinyue. Brother Zhang, run to the East of the town. Weve made the preparations as you advised.


    I cheered up and headed to the East. Many people were standing there, wearing ancient armor costumes. They were holding spears and swords. Of course, they were all props.


    There was a sword stabbed into the ground. I moved around to avoid that sword since it marked a pit trap.


    Team leader Xu from the prop team and Yin Xinyue stood underneath a tree. They were connecting a cellphone to a speaker. When they saw me, they called me.


    The masked man arrived. However, he stood still when he saw so many people at the scene.


    y the music! I cried.


    Team leader Xu turned on the speaker. Immediately, imposing and magnificent music sted. It was the song, Lanling Prince in Battle.


    It was the Prince of Lanlings popr song when he was alive. Sure enough, the masked man was stimted. He threw the whip aside and slumped on his knees. He clutched his head as if he was in great pain.


    KILL!


    The staff members wearing armor screamed in unison. The masked man was under attack. He crawled toward the sword stabbed into the ground. As soon as he got there, his body sank into the trap.


    Get him! Team leader Xu screamed.


    People threw their weapons aside and grabbed a massive. They rushed over to cover the trap.


    The masked man wanted to jump out of the trap, but the had confined him. He struggled unceasingly. A few men jumped on him to subdue him. However, he was too strong.


    Get his mask! I cried as I ran toward them. Two men were sent into the air and flew past me. No matter what, the Prince of Lanling was a famous general, and he had extraordinary strength.


    More and more people were hurled away. After an uproar, the masked man tore the. I grabbed the Sirius Whip from the ground and muttered a spell. The whip moved through the air, which created a tearing sound. Then, itshed the masked mans neck from behind.


    Both of his hands grabbed the whip in midair. He pulled forward, while I pulled backward. However, he was too strong. My feet created two deep ditches in the ground. This power didnt belong to a human.


    Take off his mask! Dont be scared! I screamed hoarsely.


    However, no one dared to approach him. They picked up some long-handled weapons and tried to pry the mask off the mans face. The masked man was enraged and broke the spears.


    I took this chance and threw my whip aside. I stormed toward him from behind and sessfully struck his mask away. When the mask fell off his face, the people at the scene were stunned. The masked man was Yi Xi!


    As soon as the mask was gone, Yi Xi seemed to have used up all of his power. He fell to the ground.


    How could it be him? Team leader Xu was surprised.


    Is the armor hes wearing from your prop team? I asked.


    Yes. Miss Yin came to me earlier, and I went to the storage to check. Sure enough, some things were missing. I remembered I had locked the door carefully, but the lock was broken when we got there, said Team leader Xu.


    I took a deep breath. We should tie him up first.


    I studied the mask in my hand. It was a ferocious-looking face mask. There was a string on each side that helped to secure the mask over the wearers ears.


    The mask reeked of murderous energy. The Prince of Lanling wore it every time he was in a battle, so it had been stained with the blood of countless enemies. Moreover, the soldiers of Northern Qi recognized their formidable general whenever they saw the mask. Eventually, the mask became a symbol of the Prince of Lanling. The trust from the soldiers was a great source of power that enriched the mask. It made its spirit stronger.


    Peoples faith could be tangible energy. Take a Sarira for example. A Sarira was a bead-shaped object found in the ashes of cremated Buddhist masters. Since people believed that it was sacred and blessed, it really became a sacred item.


    While people hurried to tie Yi Xi, his agent ran toward us. Gasping for his breath, he begged me, Mr. Zhang, please show mercy!


    Good timing. You should exin what the heck is going on here! I sneered. This time, Yi Xi was caught red-handed. They couldnt deny it anymore.


    The agent answered reluctantly, I was the one that found the mask at the bottom of the dried pool. After Yi Xi saw it, he liked it a lot, so I gave it to him.


    When did you learn about its special powers? I asked.


    It was after the first audition. When the role of the protagonist was taken from him, Yi Xi was in a fume for the whole day. The actor who got the role showed up arrogantly and told people that Yi Xi couldnt act and that he wasnt manly enough. Yi Xi heard that and was furious. You know Yi Xis character. He cant ept it when people doubt his capabilities.


    What happened next?


    The agent told us the truth. That night, that actor got into a car crash and broke his leg. Yi Xi secretly told me that the mask had magical powers. He brought the mask with him to the second audition, and he aced it. He trusted the mask even more. However, I always thought that good fortune wouldnte so easily. I told him to stop using it, but he didnt listen to me. Whenever he filmed a scene, he brought it with him. He told me that he didnt feel confident without the mask. The user didnt recognize it, but the bystanders did. I discovered that ever since he got the mask, he became more and more arrogant...


    I seemed to get it. This mask gave people confidence. However, when one was too confident, he would be conceited. He couldnt ept any criticism from other people.


    When someone doubted the user, the mask would cause something unexpected to happen to that person. The former male lead and the supporting actor were good examples of this.


    The agent added, I was afraid that the mask would have a negative effect on Yi Xi. It took a lot of convincing but eventually, he agreed to give me the mask when he didnt film. Only the two of us knew about this, so I dont know how you guys discovered it. Today, when we went back to the hotel, Yi Xi was really mad. He said that he had to vent out this anger. He put on the mask and thought to scare you guys.


    Did you think it was just a jump scare scene? I sneered again.


    That was his original n. We didnt expect things to escte to this point The agent sighed again.


    I was enraged. He uses the mask very often, and its power has already eroded his heart. Are you even suitable to be his agent?


    The agent was embarrassed. Usually, I always listen to Yi Xi. I just hope that he will be happy.


    I lowered my voice, Because you like him, right?


    The agent dropped his jaw in shock. Iforted him, Dont worry. For Yi Xis sake, I wont say anything.


    But how did you know that? The agent was puzzled.


    You couldnt hide the mask from me, so how could you possibly hide this small secret? I smiled mysteriously.


    The agent was finally convinced. Mr. Zhang, youre indeed an expert. Please save Yi Xi!

 Chapter 464: Return to the Homeland, Make Some Clay Dolls

    Chapter 464: Return to the Homnd, Make Some y Dolls


    I nodded and said, I can. However, ording to the rule of our business, after everythings solved, Ill take the mask.


    The agent waved his hands. Sure, sure. Its an evil item, and you can take it right away.


    Yi Xi woke up at this moment. Since the mask had affected him, his mind wasnt clear. He began to scream. Song, dont talk to those swindlers! Whoever talks ill of me must die! Ill kill him!


    Everybody was scared. The agent wore a grimace. Mr. Zhang, he


    Yi Xi had his sanity back, but he was still in a confusional state. I handed the mask to his agent. You should keep this mask. Be careful with it, and do not let him touch it. When you take him back to the hotel,fort him a bit. Tomorrow, I will prepare some stuff, and well perform the magic ritual.


    Will we have to join that ritual too? asked the agent.


    Of course!


    Okay, Ill take him back to the hotel first. The agent thanked me repeatedly.


    I called the other guys to untie Yi Xi. As soon as he was untied, Yi Xi bolted toward me and raised his fists. He wanted to attack me.


    People pulled him back, but he was still furiously trying to kick me. He even spat in my direction. At this moment, he looked like a big baby throwing a tantrum.


    I knew that if he didnt see me suffer, he wouldnt stop. It was showtime!


    Ouch! I clutched my chest and dropped to the ground. I pretended to be in pain. My heart! Its so painful. Save me! Hurry! Help!


    Yi Xiughed crazily. You swindler! Now you know how fierce I am!


    The agent calmed him down and told him to go. In the meantime, I was still whining and rolling on the ground.


    Yin Xinyue burst outughing. Brother Zhang, theyre gone.


    Hey, why aren''t you worried? I didnt act well enough? I was surprised.


    It was okay, Yin Xinyue said embarrassedly.


    It seemed acting wasnt my strong point.


    I then called Li Mazi. Five minutester, he came over and asked with a smile, Did you subdue him?


    You even have the courage to ask? You ran faster than a rabbit! I hated that I couldnt kick him. Prepare something for me tomorrow. I want a bag of cinder that ten thousand people have stepped on, a bottle of crow blood, and an ancient womens dress.


    Li Maziined, Youre really asking me to find a set of used ancient clothes?


    Team leader Xu was listening to us. He intervened, I have one. However, after youre done with it, you have to return it to me.


    Can I just buy it? Im afraid it will be torn apart when were done with it, I said.


    Team leader Xu hesitated for a while. All right, Ill give you the set so that we can finally finish this drama.


    I thanked him.


    Li Mazi muttered, What about the cinder that ten thousand people have stepped on? Where should I get it?


    Go take a look at the door of factories that burn coal. There should be ten thousand people getting in and out every day. Im sure you can get some, I said.


    Good idea! Li Mazi nodded.


    Team leader Xu asked, Mr. Zhang, what do you n to do with the Prince of Lanlings ghost?


    I cant tell you now, I said mysteriously.


    Can I watch when you expel him?


    Yes, you can! I answered.


    As it waste, I told people to go back to sleep. The three of us also returned to our courtyard.


    The filming work started early the next morning. However, Yi Xi wasnt in the right condition. He couldnt remember his lines and looked absentminded. It was just a simple scene, but it took him several shots to film it.


    Li Mazi went to town to get the stuff. I called Yin Xinyue to go to the mountain with me. I wanted to check the geomancy of the ce.


    There was a vast area of wild chestnut trees. The chestnuts werent ripe yet, and they hung on the trees like sea urchins. We went to the middle of the mountain nk then turned to see the view. We could see the entire ancient town from the Ming dynasty. The geomancy wasnt bad. It seemed a master in this profession had designed the town.


    Yin Xinyue felt tired. What do you want to see, after all?


    The tomb of the Prince of Lanling, I answered.


    Do you think his tomb is up here? Yin Xinyue sounded excited.


    Its possible.


    Later, we found a shabby temple on the mountain. The walls had copsed.


    The temple was surrounded by big trees like pines, cypress, and por. This ce was a mausoleum.


    I found a stone b under ayer of crisp, dried brown leaves. There was a line of words carved on it, which read Gao Changgong  Northern Qis Prince of Lanling.


    I was thrilled. We found it!


    Yin Xinyue craned her neck to look at it. I remember that the Prince of Lanling was sentenced to death by the Emperor himself. Im surprised he even had a burial mound


    This ce wasnt built at that time! I furrowed my brows.


    How do you know?


    Look here, it reads Northern Qi. People at that time didnt call their country Northern Qi, but theter generations did. Thats why I guess theter generations did this for him, I exined.


    The Prince of Lanling was an outstanding young man. Not only did he have an appealing appearance, but he also had a great demeanor and talent formanding soldiers. In Northern Qi, his existence was like that of a God. It was understandable that the Emperor was wary of him.


    At an imperial feast, the Emperor offered the Prince of Lanling wine and said, Brother, the battlefield is too dangerous. You dont need to go there personally. Im afraid something bad could happen to you.


    The Prince of Lanling answered, Its my business. You dont need to worry too much.


    The Prince of Lanling was a member of the royal family, as well as the cousin of the Emperor.


    The Emperor wasnt pleased when he heard that.<em></em>He felt that the prince was aiming for his throne.<em></em>As such, he secretly gave the Prince of Lanling a tumbler of poisonous wine. The Prince of Lanling died when he was just thirty-two years old.


    After his death, the generals and soldiers of Northern Qi cried andmented that the God of War had left this world. They cried that their country would perish.


    Indeed, four yearster, the Northern Qi was wiped out by Emperor Yu Wenyong of Northern Zhou. The royal family was eradicated. No member was left alive.


    Yu Wenyong respected the Prince of Lanling on the battlefield. Although they were opponents, they were both heroes. There were some novels and films that described their rtionship with an ambiguous hint of a secret and forbidden love.


    In an unofficial historical document, a certain event was recorded. When Yu Wenyong struck the imperial city of Northern Qi, the first thing he did was put on the mask of the prince to honor his dead rival! The Emperor thought that the ghost of the Prince of Lanling Prince hade to take revenge. It scared the crap out of him.


    That was why I told Yin Xinyue that perhaps Yu Wenyong had built this mausoleum for the Prince of Lanling. He even let the Princes descendants live here to guard the mausoleum.


    Brother Zhang, do we have to go into this mausoleum? asked Yin Xinyue.


    Theres no need. I just need to take some soil.


    Then, I took off my jacket and found a piece of broken roof tile to scrape the soil on the ground. I put it on my jacket and wrapped it up.


    On the way back to the vige, I sprinkled the tomb soil on the ground. In the end, there was a small amount left. I packed it up as I needed to use itter.


    The mask had brought the Prince of Lanlings ghost to the town. To send him away, the perfect solution was to send him away with the mask. However, I was an otherworldly merchant first and foremost.


    When Yin Xinyue and I returned to the filming location, the director hurried to wee us like a star waiting for the bright moon. Mr. Zhang, where did you go? Our film crew turned upside down today.


    Did something major happen? I asked.


    Not really. But today, Yi Xi was more irritable than usual. He hit a makeup artist. We didnt dare to provoke him, so we had to coax him every time. I havent shot many scenes the entire morning.


    Where is he now?


    After lunch, he went to his van to rest. I will shoot the other scenes with the other characters this afternoon. The director wore a grimace.


    After Yin Xinyue and I had lunch, Li Mazi returned. He was sweating a lot.


    He put a stic bag in front of me. Hey brother, see how fast I got it done. I got all the stuff you asked me to find.


    Iplimented him then said, We have nothing to do this afternoon, so give me a hand. Were going to mold some dolls!


    Mold dolls? What dolls? Li Mazi was surprised.


    Youll see. I smiled.


    I took a bucket of water from the well in the town and returned to the courtyard. I put the soil and mud I took from the tomb into the bucket. I added the crow blood and ashes from paper money then stirred them together.


    When Li Mazi saw me ying with mud, he teased me. Little Brother Zhang, are you having fun? Trying to remember the childhood fun?


    You only talk nonsense. When I was small, I didnt y with mud or y. Every day, my grandfather asked me to stay home and read books. All right, you two, wash your hands ande help me mold more y statues! I called Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue.


    Since we had only a bucket of soil and mud from the tomb, I told them not to make big dolls. They just needed to make small dolls and horses. I didnt need perfect statues, but they should have the correct forms.


    We couldn''t dry the dolls under the direct sunlight, so we had to keep them in the room and let them dry up naturally.


    Yin Xinyue created the dolls carefully; the statues she made were beautiful. Li Mazis molding skills were terrible, and his products looked like pieces of modern art. We kept working on this until our wrists were sore, but we made only around one hundred dolls.


    Its already 4:00 PM, but we still have plenty of soil left! Yin Xinyue sounded worried.


    I wiped the sweat off my forehead with the back of my hand. Okay, go find Team leader Xu and ask him to send some men to help us.


    I thought the staff from the prop team would have better skills. Yin Xinyue agreed and left. Suddenly, we heard a loudmotion outside. Yin Xinyue rushed back to the yard. Brother Zhang, not good! Something big happened out there!

 Chapter 465: Crazy Yi Xi

    Chapter 465: Crazy Yi Xi


    Yi Xiiswearing the Prince of Lanlings mask. Hes holding a sword and attacking people in the small town. He has wounded a few already! screamed Yin Xinyue.


    Hurry,letstake a look!Also, bring something to defend yourselves! I said.


    Yin Xinyue pickedup arake, but I stopped her.Its dangerous.


    She changed her weapon of choiceto a bamboo stick people used to dust the nkets.


    We saw Li Mazi afterwe left thecourtyard.When I sawhis appearance, my eyeswidenedin surprise. He was wearing a tin bucket on his headand was holdingtwo big pots.


    Youre carrying such heavy items. Arent you afraid that they will weigh you down? What ifyou cant run fast enough? I asked.


    Li Mazi considered my suggestion. Then, he gave me one of his pots.


    We headed outside and sawthe walk-onsrun aroundmadly. They were so flustered that they didnt even pay attention tothe road. They almost bumped into us. After the horderanaway, I saw Team leader Xu. Two of his staff were supporting him to walk.It looked like he hadserious wounds.


    Are you okay? I asked.


    I hurt my leg while running,he answered. Then, hegave me a paper bag. This is what you wanted. Mr. Zhang, are you sure you can subdue him with only the three of you? Do you want me tocall the police?


    Not yet. If the policegetinvolved in this, the situation will turn worse, I answered.


    Yi Xi was a famous actor. If the press brought this story to thepublic, his future would be ruined.


    How did heturncrazy? I asked.


    I dont know. He suddenly rushed to the film crew and started to assault us. No one could stop him Team leader Xu was still scared.


    You guys should go first. If I need anything, Ill call you.


    Mr. Xu nodded.


    I dropped the paper bag in the roomandcontinued toheadto town with Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue. We saw Yi Xidashout of a small alley. He was wearing themask, and the knife in his hand had blood on it. There was a vague ck mistthat swirledaround him. It gavehim a murderousandeerie aura. I almost shivered when I sawit.


    Who dares tolookdown on me?! Illkill you all!


    Yi Xis voicesounded hoarse. He then lunged toward us.


    Li Mazi stammered,Wholookeddown on him this time? This boyis really too prideful.


    Icalled him loudly,Yi Xi, handsome Yi, wevealways respectedand admired you. Were on your side! If you have something you loathe, please tell us. We can help youdeal withit.


    Hmph!Do you darelook down on me?Ill kill you all!


    He wielded his knifeand rantoward us. His eyes under the mask looked blood-red. I didnt know what had stimted him,but it had turnedhimcrazy.


    We cantreason with him! Justrun! Li Mazi was scared.


    Runmy butt! Li Mazi, you and I will stop him. Yin Xinyue, use your bamboo stick to strike the knife in his hand,I advised.


    Li Mazi and Itook the lead. We stood therewith the pot lids held high to parry. Yin Xinyue stood in the middle, behind us. Our formation was like a military march during the war.


    Hey, how many shescan thiswooden pot lid bear? muttered Li Mazi.


    Dont be flustered. Itwill only getworse! I scoffed.


    Yi Xi roared and lunged toward us.He shedmy pot lid, and the impact wasenoughtomakemy arm numb. Yin Xinyue used her bamboo stick to hit the back of Yi Xis hand.


    Yi Xi was mad. He wanted to get through the two of us to sh Yin Xinyue. I screamedand askedLi Mazi to stop him.


    Westood guard onboth sides. Yi Xi struggled hardto pullhis right hand from the space between us, swinging his dedisorderly. The blood-dripping dealmost brushed pastmy face.


    Yin Xinyue kept hitting his hand. However, Yi Xi didnt drop his knife.Suddenly, the bamboo stickbroke in half. The broken piece cut the back of his hand, which made him bleed hard.


    Its notworking, BrotherZhang! Hes holdingit too tightly! Yin Xinyue was soscared thatshe was about to cry.


    At the same time, Li Mazi and I couldnt hold him for much longer. Yi Xi was unimaginably strong. Underneath the mask, he grunted like a crazy wild beast.


    I reached one hand to take the tin bucket off Li Mazis headandwaited for the right chance and put it on the hand Yi Xi used to hold the knife.


    Press him down!I screamedand usedmy body to press Yi Xi onto the ground.


    Li Mazi, take his knife,now!


    Li Mazi used the pod lidand hit Yi Xishand a few timesbeforestopping.What if Ibreak his wrist?


    Just do it. We cant worry that much!


    In the meantime, I reached my hand to take the mask off his face. However, Yi Xi was struggling hard. I couldnt touch his mask.


    Bang!


    Yi Xi finally dropped the knife.


    Li Mazi, hold his head!


    We joined hands, and we were finallyable to keep Yi Xi still.The moment I pried his mask away, I saw Yi Xis bloodshot eyes.He even hadfoamat the corners ofhis mouth.


    All of a sudden, he triedto bite me. I reacted fast enough so he only bit my sleeve, which he tore in half.


    This isntright! I was surprised. I took off his mask!


    Brother Zhang, what should we do now? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I threw the mask to Yin Xinyueand askedher to find Team leader Xu. I needed him tobring more people here. It seemed we couldnt wait until night. Wehad tostop the Prince of Lanling now!


    I took out aKsitigarbhaTalisman. I didntknow if it would workor not, but I decided to paste it onto his body. However,Yi Xi bit the talisman, chewed it,then swallowed it.


    Brother, weveneverexperienced anythinglikethisbefore.Li Mazi sounded worried.


    Hes not possessed,but helost his mind. Im sure someone stimted himtoo much! I furrowed my brows.


    Yi Xi struggled hard.He quicklydrainedour energies.


    Li Mazi asked, Isnt he tired? Should we hit him unconscious?


    Donthit himtoohard, I said.


    Illtry.Li Mazi sounded eager.


    You need to be sure! I wore a wry smile.


    Li Mazi asked me to pin Yi Xi down.Then, hebent and picked up the pot lid to hit the man.


    However, Yi Xi pushed me away. He sprangup and ran away.


    Not good. After him! Li Mazi and I hurried to chase after him.


    However, Yi Xi wastoofast. After runningthrougha few alleys,we lost sight of him.


    Yin Xinyue called me. Ive brought some people with me. Were waiting for you at the ceweparted.


    Another thing, I think I know why he became crazy Yin Xinyue sounded hurried.


    Yeah?


    Search his name on theInte!


    I hung up the call and used my phone to searchup his name.All the search resultsthat came up were, Yi Xis gay andYi Xi kissed a man.Iopenedmy eyes wide in shock. It was a fatalblowto Yi Xi!


    Moreover, it happened at such a crucial moment. Ifthiswasnta coincidence, then someonewantedto destroy Yi Xi!


    At thismoment, I heard some noise. I turned to Li Maziand sawhimbrowsingtheInte as well. Hesaw me looking at him andthought that Iwas suspectinghim.Are you thinking that I was the one who released the news? Although I dontapprove ofhomosexual love, I knowthat the situation is serious, soIdefinitely wonttalk ill abouthim on the Inte!


    While Li Mazi was talking, Yi Xi appeared on the roof behind him. His face lookedscary.


    I cried, Watch behind you!

 Chapter 466: Provoking the General

    Chapter 466: Provoking the General


    As soon as Li Mazi was about to turn around to check, Yi Xi jumped off the roofandndedon his back.Heopened his mouthand triedto biteLi Mazi.


    Shoot! LittleBrother Zhang, help! Help me!


    Li Mazi screamed and criedas he triedto push Yi Xi away. I took out the Sirius Whipand hitYi Xis back. However, he didnt let go of Li Mazi.


    Iwas wrestlingwitha superstar. I could tell my grandchildrenthis glorious story. That isifI could live untilthen.


    Yi Xi drooled. Hismouth was wide openand was about to bite Li Mazis throat. My heart dropped. For my friend, I wouldnt mind risking my life.


    Iscreamedand chargedforward. Yi Xi, you shameless gay bastard, look here!


    Yi Xi halted, and his bloodshot eyes bulged. He quietly gazed at me, then slowlygot up one more time.


    I felt my hair rising under his malicious gaze. I hurried to rush backward.The moment Yi Xi stormed toward me, I immediately ranin the opposite direction.


    Yi Xi didnt careaboutanythingand only chasedafter me. He panted and grunted like a wild beast. I could feel him close behind me. I held the Sirius Whip tightly in my hand. As soon as I turned around, Yi Xi jumpedand pressed ontome.


    I shoved the Sirius Whip into his mouth. Yi Xi bitit, and his drool droppedtomy neck. The Sirius Whip was made of extraordinarily tough wolf skin, and peoples teeth couldntbreakit.


    However, his face was just an inch away frommine. It lookedterrifying. His fingernails dug deep into my shouldersas he pressedme on the ground. I didnt know how long I could put up with this madman.


    Li Mazi came. He wasstunned when he sawus. LittleBrother Zhang, are you all right?


    Do you think Im all right?Help me! I shouted.


    Im going to get more people


    Get back here!


    Li Mazi turned around. He looked hesitant. Even if I stay, I cant help you.


    Do you have a pocket knife or anything sharp? I asked.


    Li Mazi checked his pocketand said, Ivegot a pair of pocket scissors.


    Okay, Ill try my best to hold him.Scratch both of his shoulders and his be. Scratch him until he bleeds!


    Im not sure if Li Mazi hesitated.


    He will bite me to deathif you dont do it! I scoffed.


    All right, all right, Ill do it!Li Mazi took out his small scissors.


    My grandpaonce toldme thatsomeonewhohad gonecrazyhadtheir three Yang mes corrupted by some evil spirit. Yi Xis condition wasnt different from that. It was the only thing I could think of at this moment.


    I started to read thesacredtext of Daoism. Li Mazi approached Yi Xi from behindand scratchedhis shoulder. Yi Xi didnt seem to fenypain.


    After he had scratched both of Yi Xis shoulders, Li Mazi came to the frontandsaid, Im so sorry, handsome Yi!


    He held the scissors tightly but didnt dare to scratch the mans face. I was busy chanting thesacredtext of Daoism, so I didnt urge him.


    Eventually,Li Mazi stabbed a hole at Yi Xis be.Right after, Yi Xis bloodshot eyes became normal. They thenrolled to the back of his head,andhe lost consciousness.


    Yi Xisbody was already in bad shape, and he was then controlled, whichdrainedhis stamina and vitality. When hisYang mes extinguished, hewent intoshock.


    I carefully pushed him aside and heaved a sigh of relief. I found my clothes damp with sweat.


    Come help me lift him, I told Li Mazi.


    What if he wakes up? Li Mazi asked.


    He wont. Hurry up!


    The two of us held him by his shoulders and legs andliftedhimwith ease.Wethenreturned to the courtyard;Yin Xinyue and Team leader Xu were waiting for us.


    When they sawus carrying Yi Xi, Yin Xinyue was thrilled. Brother Zhang, how did you guys subdue him?


    We almostdidntmake it. Come help us bring him to his room. I gasped for mybreath.


    Two staffmemberswalked forward and received Yi Xi. I asked Mr. Xu, Did he kill anybody?


    No, the emergency unit came and took the wounded staff away. There hasnt been any bad news yet. Mr. Xu also felt lucky.


    Thatsgood!


    Yi Xi wasbrought tothe living room. I asked people to move the furniture away. I then went to the kitchen to fetch the rooster I had bought yesterday. I killed the rooster in the yard and collected a bowl of warm blood. I poured all of the blood into the carpenter line marker.


    I asked astaff member tohelp me marksomelines on the ground and even on the walls. Thisline marker was a toolused by carpenters, andsince it could create straight lines, itwas associated with righteousness.Gradually, it became an exorcising tool.


    Soon, red lines covered the entire room.After I consideredYi Xis situation, I was afraid that we couldntstick toour original n. I asked the others,Was anyonehere born in the year of the ox?


    A man stepped forward. I was.


    I asked him to put on the ancient woman clothes and the Prince of Lanlingsmask. However,he wasnt willing to doit. Everybody here knew howstrangethe mask was. Its okay. Your birth year was the sameas the Prince ofLanling. You will temporarily be his stunt double.


    The extra still didnt want to doit, soI quietly enticed him.After this, Ill give you an otherworldly item thatcanhelp you be rich.


    Really?The extras eyes brightened.


    Definitely.


    I want you to promise that Ill be safe!


    I swear that youll be safe. I nodded.


    The extra took off his jacket and put on the dress and the mask. I asked him to sit in the middle of the yard.


    It was already twilight. There was no beam of sunlight left in the sky.


    Then, I called the others to move all the y dolls and horses we had madein themorning. I arranged them so that they facedthe big mountain behind the small town.


    After the preparations wereplete, I took out the bag of coal cinderand sprinkled thecinder on the extraas I readasoul-summoningspell. The othersstood and watched. No one dared to breathe aloud.


    I did that toprovokethe soul of the Prince of Lanling. I wanted himtoe outso that I couldforce him to returnto his tomb! With that,the masks power would reduce. It would also make it easier to helpYi Xi.


    Asking thestunt double to wear womensclothingwas no different from talking illof the Prince ofLanlingforbeing feminine. At the same time, the cinder that ten thousand people had stepped on was meant to insult him.


    To deal with otherworldly items, sometimesweneededtoanger them, and other times we need to persuade them.There was no best solution.


    After around fifteen minutes, the stunt double began to shake. Strange humming noises escapedhis throat. Suddenly, his voice changed. Ignorantfools. Are you tryingto humiliate me?!


    He stood up. Theonlookerswere so frightenedthatthey hurriedlybackedoff. I signaled at them tonottalk.


    He stooped and saw himself wearingwomensclothes. This set of clothes made him feel extremely embarrassed.He then noticed the y dolls and horsesand scolded, Illlead a great army of thousands to takeyour pathetic lives!


    A mass of ck wind came out of the man, twirlingaround him. Eventually, it left hisbodyand coveredthe mud dolls.


    The mud dolls and horses shook hardthen shatteredinto dust. I followed ituntilthe door and sawthewisp of coldwindzoomaway to the big mountain.


    Done! Wevesent him away! I cheered up.


    I returned to the yard. The stunt double was unconsciousandidon the ground. I took the mask off his face and marked a few lines on itwiththe carpenter line marker. It was toensure the soul wouldnt return.


    After a while, the man awoke. Hedidnt remember what took ce just now, andhe didnt feel anything strange, either. The onlookers were thrilledas they admiredmy deeds.


    Yin Xinyue came out from the house and shouted, Brother Zhang, Yi Xi woke up!

 Chapter 467: The Despicable Agent

    Chapter 467: The Despicable Agent


    We walked into the house and saw that Yi Xiwas awake. He looked dispirited. He asked for some water.


    I gave him a bottle of mineral water. After taking a few sips, he looked around. Suddenly, he hugged Yin Xinyueand sobbed.Sister Yin, what should I do now? My acting career ispletely ruined!


    Earlier,Ididnt have a chance to read the news on the Inte carefully, soI used my phone to check again.


    This morning,ananonymous person sent a lot of information and photos to many press agencies. They were all about Yi Xi having private moments with some men.


    Whether he liked men or women, one thing was clearhis personal life wasplicated.


    Those photos werent taken on the same day. Someone must have collected them over a long timetodirtyhis name.


    Ithought ofone personand immediately asked,Was there anything wrong with your agent today?


    Song? This morning he told me that hehadsome stuff to do. He left and Then, Yi Xis face changed drastically. Damn, that bastard! Heplotted against me! I have to kill him!


    He was still weak. He struggled to get up, but he fell right back on his butt.


    Sincehis soulhadstabilized not too long ago, I was worried about him. Calm down. Yesterday, I asked your agent to keep this mask. How did you end up wearing it?


    I dont know. I was taking a nap in my van. When I woke up, he was gone. The mask wascedin a bag on the driversseat. Then, mypany called meand toldme that there were so many negative news articles about me on theInte. I checkedthe news onmy phone and feltas ifmy head had exploded


    He gritted his teeth.Then, I heard many people in the film crew discussing the news andughing at me. I hated them so much. I put on the mask, andI dontremember anything after that.


    This was a deliberate act.


    I told Yi Xi, You should rest. Im going to help youfindyour agent. You guys can talk faceto face. Is it okay?


    Yi Xi agreed. I went with Li Mazi and Yin Xinyue to the entrance of the town. Because of the incident in the afternoon, the film crew members were there to avoid the danger. They flocked together like scared birds.


    Director, wheres Yi Xis agent? I asked the director.


    I dont know.


    Didnt I ask you tofort him?Therearehugenews threads about him. Why did you guys talk ill behind his back? I wasupset.


    The director wore an innocent face. Iwasshooting the drama the entire afternoon. There are a fewhundred peoplehere. How could I control their mouths?


    I went to check Yi Xis van. Thevan was not locked.There was an envelope on the driversseat with Yi Xis nameon it. Yin Xinyue stopped me. Its not good to do that. What if hebeseven angrierif he finds outthatyouopened the letter?


    But what if this letter contains something too overwhelming? I should read it first, I said.


    I opened the envelope. It was a resignation letter that listedall the timesYi Xi had causedproblemswith his love affairs. Every time it happened,the agent had to clean up his mess. It even included theirplicated rtionship.


    The agentlovedYi Xibut started to hate himter. Thatwaswhy he hade up with this revenge n to destroy him. If Yi Xi killed someone today, the police wouldnt care if he had been possessed byanotherworldly item ornot. He would have been jailed or confined in an asylum. He wouldnt have been able to be a starorleada normal life.After all, Yi Xi always had a privileged life. Thisblowwould be more painful than death to him.


    It was fortunate that we had solved the case on time. Otherwise, we couldnt imagine the consequences.


    Yi Xis personal lifeis a mess. Yin Xinyue furrowed her brows. However, this agent crossed the line.


    I also didnt feelfortablethattheman had run away.


    Afterward, we didnt tell Yi Xi anything. Your agent admitted that hedidthese things. Moreover, hes resigned.


    Yi Xiclenchedhisteeth. Ivealways treated him well. Icantbelieve that he stabbedmelike that!He clutched his head. Its a big scandal this time! What should I do now?


    Yin Xinyueforted him. I dontthink itsthat big of a deal.Youve been hiding the truth for too long. Thats why everyone is so shocked right now. Many movie stars have out of the closet. Theyveevengainedmore fans. Youshouldconsiderittoo.


    Yi Xi sighed. Its really hard to earn a bowl of rice in this industry.


    You should be more carefboutyour personal life. Celebritiesliveunderamagnifying ss. Normal people dont need to mind theirimage thatmuch, and they can live their lives casually. However, celebritiesare different. To have the glorious halo around you, you must sacrifice something. Dont you think so?


    Yi Xi had tears in his eyes. He reachedout ahandand pattedmy shoulder. Mr. Zhang, thank you for helping me. Can you stay andfort me?


    Er, this I turned to look at Yin Xinyue.


    She tried to hold in herughter. I have some stuff to do. See you.


    After this event, we stayed in the filming location for a few days. Yi Xirecoveredshortly after. Without the aidofthe mask, he couldnt immerse himself in his character. However, thismanwas tough enough. Hememorizedall of his lines and eventually understood the character. Gradually, he got in the rightstate.


    Having confidence was a good thing. However, too much confidence wouldmake a personnarcissistic and ignorant. They couldnt ept any critiques orments. Theydgraduallyistethemselves from the rest of the world. When they noticed that their friends had distanced themselves from them,it would be toote toregretit.


    I believed Yi Xi hadlearneda good lessonfrom this scandal. He wouldntact like thatagain!


    Before we left the filming location, the staff member from the prop team found meand toldme that I didnt keep my word. I had promised that I would give him an otherworldly itemthat would makehim rich after he helped me. However, I hadnt done anything.


    I then remembered my promise. I didnt bring it with me. Ill send it to you when Igethome. Could you give me your contact information and address?


    After we returned to Wuhan, I saw on theInte that someone had kept digging into Yi Xis case, discovering that it was the doing ofhis agent.


    His scandal heated up a second time. People mocked that one shouldnt find an agent named Song.Ironically, agent Song became more famous as people kept cursing him. They madehis name well-known. Many people were willing to hire him. He opened a blog to expose Yi Xi and spread rumors about him. Some talk-show hosts even invited him to their programs.


    The more shameless people were, the more popr they could be!


    Half a year ago, I had collected a Yin and Yang money bag. It was a tricky deal. This money bag had two parts. One helped earn money, while the other drained your money. With the good money bag, money and opportunities woulde unceasingly. However, when one had both of the bags, there would be no effect at all.


    The trickier part was that ifthe first ownerdidnt throwthe money bagaway, thesecond ownercouldnt throw his bag, either.


    Thus, I sent the prop team member the good money bag and asked Yin Xinyue to send the evil money bag to agent Song through his newpanys address. I put a note inside that bagthatwrote, If you dont do anything bad, you wont be afraid of ghosts knocking on your door.


    I hoped that he would remember it for a long time and that he would never stab peoples backs again.Regardless ofthereasons hehad, it was disgusting!

 Chapter 468: The Mysterious Big Fire

    Chapter 468: The Mysterious Big Fire


    After that incident, the brotherhood between me and Li Mazibecameeven stronger. It was thesort of self-evident rtionship that had been proven through moments of life anddeath.


    Although we had both promised Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue that we would wash our hands and give upourcareersasotherworldly merchants, we both knew that we would never be able to keep our promise to the girls.


    Let alone the huge sums of money, we were addicted!


    Moreover, being an otherworldly merchantwas a life-time career. What was the goodin givingit up so early? After two months of enjoying our leisure time, a client came to our door.


    Hewas a man with a shaved head and a vigorous body. Two dragon tattooscoveredhis arms. He wore athickgoldchainaroundhis neckandappearedto bea true gangster, which made me interested in him.


    In this society,gangsters mainly robbed people orwere loan sharks. As such, they woulde in contact withotherworldly items thatmerchants like usrarely saw.


    Kids,callyour boss out here! As soon asthe bald manentered the shop, he shotusa cold nceand ordered usarrogantly.


    Iwanted to tease him. Mr. Zhangs not in the shop.Please returnter.


    Li Mazi knewwhat I was thinking. He covered his mouthand sniggered.


    The manwas surprisedand grunted.Whyisnthe home? Suddenly, he saw Li Mazi sniggering. He understood that he was tricked.


    He pointedat me and shouted, Damn, kid, you should invite Mr. Zhang out here to meet me. Otherwise, Iwillburn down your shop tonight!


    Looking at his angry face, I wasnt offended. However, I recognized that thismanwas in great trouble. Otherwise, he wouldnt be that worried.


    I cleared my throat. Then, I smiled and said, ImZhang Jiulin.


    Do I seem like Icare aboutwho you are? Hurry, get Mr. Zhang Baldy stopped in the middle of his sentence. His disbelieving eyes assessed me. What did you say? You are Zhang Jiulin?


    Isuream. I stopped smilingand madea gesturetoleave if he didnt believe me.


    Yes, yes. Good morning, Mr. Zhang.Forgivemy blind eyes!


    The man reactedfast. He gently smacked his faceand said,You dont need tohit me. Illpmy facemyself. Youre a big person, so please dontmind my words.


    He wasnowpletely different froma moment ago. Ilikedthis kind ofperson. I smiled at him. Its okay. Is there something important thatmadeyoue to my shop so early in the morning?


    Master, please save me!The manexcitedly grabbed my hands. If you dont help me, I dontknow what I''lldo...


    Dont be flustered. We should drink some tea first. I motioned my headatLi Maziand askedhim to makehima cup of Longjing tea. Then, I askedthe manto take a seat.


    I dont know whats happeningover atmypany,but I bet itssomethingvery evil. A few menhavediedalready!The manlooked panicked.


    I frownedas I listenedto him. Ihad a feeling that this case would beextremely tough.


    In our business, there were three kinds of otherworldly items that we wouldnt ept. Those that could wound and murder people directly, those that messedwithpeoples fate, and those that sucked human blood.Once we epted these otherworldly items, the consequenceswould be unimaginable.


    If the otherworldlyitem killed other people because of this man,I would never put my hand in this!


    The manlived to his reputationasa gangster. He seemed to have read my mind. He patted his chest and said, Mr. Zhang, dont worry! Although Im part ofthe underworld, I wouldnever dare to cross the line!


    All right, tell me your story. I noddedand askedhim totellme more details.


    Yes, heres the story. I opened a hotel in Baotou, and everything was niceinthe beginning. After all the decorating work was done, I decided to hold the grand opening ceremony. I invited my friends from both worlds.However, something unexpected happenedthatnight!


    Whenhe came to this part, his face slightly changed. Since it was the grand opening, we had huge discounts. The liquoronthe first floorwasfree. Ihadmany visitors. In the end, some peopledranktoo muchandgotintoa fight. One person died and twowereseriously wounded.


    Wait, are you sure that the fight has something to do with an otherworldly item? I didnt know if I should cry ough.


    The mansaid, Mr. Zhang, please listen to my story first.As the twosidesfought, they soonrealizedthat oneperson was dead.They all rushed out of the hotelin a hurry. As they ranaway, they created a stampede. Two more people died. One of them was the son of an important local official.


    dywas so angrythatbad things had happened during his grand opening ceremony. However, he had todeal withthe consequences in the best way he could.


    Usually, hewouldpensate the victims families with a few million renminbi. But since the official had lost his sonin old age, he didnt ept thepensation. He insistedBaldy was jailed.


    SinceBaldyhad aturbulent past, if hewasinvestigated, his deeds would surele to light.Hewas scared. He begged forhelpwhile making preparationsto flee.


    However,thingsdidnt endthere. Something happened at his hotel again


    The kitchenonthe first floor had a fire. In principle, even ifitcaught onfire, theywould be ableto extinguish it easily since the hotelwaswell equipped.


    But no matter how hard they tried, they couldnt put out the fire. Before thefire truckcame, the fire had alreadyreached the third floor.


    In the end, the fire wasextinguished,but the hotel was burnedtoa mess.Baldythought that someone had schemedagainsthimandswore to take revenge.


    He checked theCCTV countlesstimes, but he couldnt spot anysuspiciousperson. Instead,he discovered thatthe fire seemed to have escaped and burst from the ground!


    Baldywasnt convinced. Hecalledsome of his henchmen to dig the kitchenfloor. He wanted to see what was underneath. His henchmenhadntdug the floor deep enoughwhentheystarted to foam attheir mouths, copsing.They all diedwithinthe next three days. AlthoughBaldywas anatheistand a member of themafia thatwasnt new to the sight of blood,he was really scared thistime.


    He knew his hotel was haunted. He decided to tellthe fullstory to the official that wanted toimprisonhim.


    The official was an experienced old man. After he listened to the story, he kept silent for a long time. In the end, he said, Nomatter if itwas a ghost or a human, you have to investigate and make it clear.Otherwise,Ill see you in court!


    Baldydidnt dare to linger. He tried to find a master everywhere. In the end, he found me through the Circle.


    Ohshoot. What kind of vicious item is that? Li Mazisface changed. However,a gleamof greed shed in his eyes.


    If that evilthingwasa real otherworldly item, its price would be over the top. My heart somewhat itched. However, I was afraid it wasnt an otherworldly itembuta fiend instead.


    The symptoms ofthe men who dug the ground wereverysimr to those of people possessed by fiends. Grandpa used to tell me a lot of stories about them.


    ItoldBaldy, I can go there and take a look. But if I cant solve it, I will leave immediately.


    Baldynodded repeatedly. I understood that he wasscaredand that any opportunitywas likethe straw that could save his life.


    I asked Li Mazi to get some stuff. Then,we drove withBaldytoBaotou in Inner Mongolia. Wespentthe night there. Early the next morning,Baldycame to take us to his hotel.


    Indeed, his hotel had just opened. They hadntcleaned upthe confetti and firecrackers at the entrance yet.


    Gold-sparkling wordswere written onthe highest floor:Moon Overshadowing Beauty.


    The hotel was sealed with cordons. We had to get in from the backdoor. At first nce, the entire lobby was pit-ck with charred furniture and burn marks everywhere.Aleather sofa had been burned to the steel frame.vish chandelier was shattered. Pieces of crystals were everywhere on the ground.


    I pitiedBaldy. Although he was in the mafia, his money came from hishard work. Now,he had lost everything.


    It seems I dont have good fortuneinthis business. After everything is solved, I will find a peaceful ce to retire. I will not do business anymore!


    Baldysounded open-minded. Igave a half-smileand askedhim to bring me to the kitchen where the fire had started.


    Baldynodded. When he pushed the kitchen door, I saw the mess inside. Bowls, pots, and pans were everywhere. The porcin tileshad beenlifted. A few shovels were scattered by a small hole.


    I knew it was the ce where the fireurred. I studied it carefully.


    Soon, I found something strange. Since it was a big fire, the ce where the fire started shouldhave beendamaged the most.Butdespite the disarray in the kitchen, there was no burning mark or charred spot there. It looked like nothing had ever happened!


    Li Mazi also recognizedthis. He shot a doubtful nce towardBaldy. Are you sure the fire started here?


    Absolutely!Baldyconfirmed.


    I frowned. If so, the situation wasodd.To check the danger level of the thing underneath, I took out mypass and squatted by the small hole.


    At first, thepassneedlestayed still. I thought mypass was brokenandthoughtof givingit a good pat. Butbefore I could doanything, theneedlestarted spinning very fast!

 Chapter 469: Rather Provoke a Hundred Ghosts than Meddle with a Fiend

    Chapter 469: Rather Provoke a Hundred Ghosts than Meddle with a Fiend


    This was a bad sign.Thismeantthat anintimidatingspirit was down there,and it was probably a fiend!


    Ifafiendwas involved,Iwould haveto give up this case. My grandpa used to tell meit was better toprovoke a hundred ghosts than meddle with a fiend.


    However, thepassneedle suddenlystopped spinning. Moreover, theneedlesank as if itwasreally heavy.


    My spirit was lifted. I moved thepass over the hole wherethehenchmen had dugand shiftedto a few locations. Theneedlesank in every location.


    PhewI sighed then put thepass backinmy bag.


    What did you find?Baldysounded worried.


    Thepassneedlesank.Thismeans that your hotelis haunted. However, its not the doing of a malicious ghost.The deceasedis callingfor attention to seek justice.


    I was puzzledthough. If itwasntan evil ghost, why did it murder so many innocent people? Did something happen whenBaldydecorated the hotel? I asked him.


    Baldyshook his head repeatedly. No, no, I just decorated the hotnd madeit morevish and luxurious. I didnt dig anything from the ground!


    Thatsstrange then My head was filled with questions.


    Li Mazi chimed,Whyare you hesitating somuch? Just dig it up, andwell know what it is.


    Then, he picked up a shovelthat was positionedagainst the wall and started to dig.


    If thespiritwasunderground, it would have to attach to something.Such being the case, it wasan otherworldly item, and not a fiend. Thatwaswhy I didnt stop Li Mazi.


    However,not even awhole minute had passed whenthe enthusiastic Li Mazi started to sweat hard. His face paled,which madehim look like a patient that had just recovered from a serious sickness.


    Stop! I shouted.


    I didntexpect thisotherworldly itemto be thisformidable. Itseemed Li Mazi couldnt hear me; he started to dig even harder.


    I was scaredand guessedthe spirit had possessed him. I rushed to the hole to pull him up.


    LittleBrother Zhang, dont pull me up.Im not convinced yet!


    It turned out he justwasn''t ready to give up yet.


    I pulled him upand shouted,You should stop now! If something happens, I cant save you!


    Shoot! Why didnt you tell me earlier? Li Mazi threw the shovel aside.Then, he sat on the groundin low spirits.This isthe only clue we have. If you dontletme digit up, what should we do?


    I rubbed my head then askedBaldyto go to the food markets to find some butchers. Although he didnt knowthe reason,he didnt ask muchand leftimmediately.


    This man isnt vignt at all. Theres no oneelse inthis big hotel. Isnt he worried that we will clean upthe whole ce?As we talked,Li Mazi scanned the ce.Hewas looking for some valuableitems.


    I patted his head and scolded him.Dont stay idle. You should also go and prepare somethingsfor me!


    Whatdo youneed?


    I thought of the items and said,A massive mirror that can cover an entire wall, the ashes of fresh grass, andblood from a malebat.


    Li Mazimadea faceand pouted.The two first items are okay, but wherecan Iget bat blood? Also,malebat blood?


    I can feel this otherworldly items energy. Its so tremendous that eel bloodis not enough. We have to use male bat blood. Its the top tool tosummonspirits, I told himina serious tone.


    Li Mazi stoppedsmiling.Dont worry.Leave it to me.


    Then, he left. I was now alone in this hotel. Since I had nothing to do, I decided to pick up the shovel and dig. However, after a few minutes, my chest felt heavy,andmy heart started torace. I had to put the shovel away and decided towanderaround the silent hotel.


    I had to admit, Baldys hotel was ultravish. From the secondfloorupward, the floors were made of mahogany wood. The teahouseonthe third floor had green bamboo partitions,which gave the rooman elegant touch. Unfortunately, the room was now half burned.


    The fourth and fifth floors were guest rooms. I skipped themand headedto the sixth floor.Baldysaid that the sixth floor wasmeant tobe a casino. I had never been to a casino, so I wanted to take a look.


    Before I could get there, I felt thick Yin energy surround me. After a few seconds, my body was chilled from the toes upward.


    My heart sank. I didnt expect that it would dare to show up here. I didntcarryany defensive toolswithme, soI quicklymade up my mind andrushed downstairs.


    Luckily for me, it didnt follow me. I exhaled in relief.Iwanted to learnwhat that thing was tonight!


    At around noon,Baldyreturnedwith five or six burly men. I checked each of them. They all had astrangemurderous aura. I gaveBaldya satisfied nod.


    Since butchers had ughtered pigs daily, they had umted murderous energy in their bodies. They could help subdue the spirit. Thatwaswhy I had askedBaldyto invite them here.


    Themens shirts had dabs of dirt. It seemedBaldyhad invited them from the countryside. I guessed they were also superstitious. When they saw the burned, dark lobby and the hole by my feet, they began to talk amongst themselves. Perhapsthey were considering whether to take this job or not.


    Talk to those people. Dont let them run away tonight,I remindedBaldy. Then, Ifound a sofaand tooka nap.


    IfBaldywasnteven able tohandlethose butchers, he shouldnt be in the mafia anymore!After I had slept for around an hour,Li Mazireturnedwith a bag.


    Did you prepare all the stuff?


    Oh, I got two of the items, but I couldnt find bat blood. Li Mazi sounded a little embarrassed.


    All right, I sighedand knewthat he had tried his best. We had to use eel blood then.


    Unexpectedly, whenBaldyheard that, he told me he knew where we could get some male bats. Hehada friend who liked to keep small, exotic pets like bats, hedgehogs, and even chinchis.


    I was excitedand askedhim to get me several male bats.Baldywas also hurried. He drove away and returnedshortlywith a cagethat containedseven or eight bats.


    When the batsflew around, theylookedokay.Butwhen theyfoldedtheir wings intoaball,they lookedeven uglier than a bunch of rats. I felt a littlescared, so I didnt want to take their blood. I gave this task to Li Mazi.


    At twilight, the mirror that Li Mazi ordered arrived. I asked them to install the mirror on the kitchen wall. Afterward, I sprinkled a thinyer of ashes on it. Sincethere wasntmuch bat blood, Idecided tosave itfoter.


    I didnt know what tacticBaldyhad used, but all the butchers decided to stay and help us. He then invited us to dinner.


    The way he treated us and the butcherswasrespectful. He offered us liquor with equal treatment and manners. What a generous and frank man he was!


    When we returned to the hotel, it was 11:00 PM. After drinking, the butchers lookedfearless. On mymand, they picked up the shovels and started to dig.


    Baldywas surprised. You invited them here just to dig this hole?


    I smiled.Thats right. Everything in this world has a nemesis. Although thespirit is fierce, it will be afraid of these butchers.


    If I had known thisearlier, Iwould have chosen to bea butcher!Baldysmacked his tongue.


    While we were talking, the butchers were digging hard. They lookedmuch more atease than when we dug the holeearlier. After a long time, nothing strange had happened.


    I thought theywouldbe able to dig this hole to the end. Unfortunately, around fifteenminuteter, they stopped.One of themcrawled out of the holeandsaid,Brother,somethingswrong down there. We dont want your money. Can we stop?


    What? I frownedand took a look at the hole.A blood-like substance was gushing out from the ground.


    There wasnt muchof it. It was just a thinyer of a liquid substance, but it bubbled like boiling water. Itrosehigher than the butchers soles. The liquid continued to gurgle and rise over the butchers ankles thatwere still standing in the hole.


    Stop digging. Climb up!


    I didnt know what kind of blood it was, so Iaskedthem to leave the hole first. With a stern face, I jumped into the pit and bent to dip a finger into the blood. I brought my finger to my nose to sniff it, butthere was no smell of blood.


    Feeling suspicious, Irubbed my nose and took another sniff. It wasnt blood butrather astrange red liquid.


    I put my entire hand into thered waterto dig some soil. However, as soon as my hand reached the blood, I felt a massive suction force!


    It felt like a vortex was spinning underneath the blood surface. I didnt have time to react, and my entire hand was sucked in. The mud and soil under the red liquidwereso cold. I felt a chill deep to the bone.


    I paledand quicklyretrieved my hand. I also took a handful of mud.I studiedthe red-blood mud in my handandsoon noticed a detail. Peoplewho livedin the Northeast knew that the soil wouldfreezein winter. It created asort of cold mud, which was simr to the mud in my hand.


    However, it was just the beginning of autumn. How could it be frozenalready?


    I scratched my head and suddenly had a terrifying thought.The mud and soil herewerefrozen by the thick Yin energy!


    To verify thisguess, I asked the butchers togodown there again and dig one meter deeper. When the small holewas deep enough toburyaperson standing upright, I asked them to stop and get up.


    Then, I poured thebatsblood around the hole and waited!

 Chapter 470: Bitter Coldness

    Chapter 470: Bitter Coldness


    Sincethe lobbywasburned down, there was no electricity. At night, we had to use candles to light up the ce.


    Li Mazi understood that I was about to summon the spirit. Why didnt you blowoutthe candles?


    Theres no needas itsYin energy is verystrong. It wont be afraid of the candles.I thoughtabout the encounter from this afternoonandshook my head.


    We hid in a corner of the kitchenand stayedstill, watchingthe deep hole.Baldywas scared but alsocurious.


    Time ticked by.There was no indicationthat the spirit woulde out, so webegan tofeelimpatient.


    I thought that itwasnt interested in bat bloodand that we would have to do it againtomorrow. But right when I wasabout to ask the people to go home, the candlesin the room suddenly flickered.


    Then, a strong wind swept up from the deep hole,which broughtwith it drops of cold, blood-like liquid. The temperatureinthe room dropped sharply.


    I knew it was about toe out. I turned tolook atthe mirror in the kitchen, tryingto see what it was. Unexpectedly, the wind camequicklyand leftfast.Everything happened inaround ten seconds. The surroundings calmed down after that.


    LittleBrother Zhang, did ite out? Li Mazis voice camefrom the corner. He was puzzled.


    I shook my head. I dont know. The mirror didnt show anything.


    Baldysuddenly shriekedand pointedat the hole. Impossible!


    I followedthe direction of hisfinger. The bat blood I had pouredearlierwas gone, leaving onlya fainttraceon the ground.


    I was surprisedand tooka few steps forward to check. The soil inside the hole was frozen altogether!


    Isntthistooexaggerated? Li Mazi followed behind meand droppedhis jaw when hesaw the scene.


    Until now, the spirit hadnt attacked us. However,itsYin energy was enough todestroyus.Once again,it didnt appear to be an evil spirit.


    Before Icould learnwhat it was, Iknew that I shouldntcarelessly attack it. I didnt want to provoke this spirit.


    You should buy some offerings. We want to offersome cakes, incense, and fruits tothe spirit inthishole.Sincewe cant y hard, wellhave to do it the soft way.


    Baldybought the items I had asked forandstacked the offerings into a big pile by the hole.


    I wanted to let the butchers go homeas theywouldnt beuseful even if they stayed. However,Baldyinsisted that they stay with us. We could feel safer with more people at the scene.


    I didntment.We allcollected some nkets and gathered in a corner. From there, we could observe the hole. No one dared to sleep.


    After midnight, everybody was tired. Gradually, they started to doze off. My mind began to blur. However, my intuition told me that the spirit would show up after midnight. I had to stay awake until it came.


    In the end,my tirednessgot the best of me. I couldnt defeatit. I pulled a nket tightly aroundmyself and driftedinto sleep.


    I didnt know how long I had slept,butI was awakened by someones footsteps. At first, I thought someone was going to the toilet. However, the sound didnt stopand kepting from all around us.


    I couldnt sleep anymoreandsubconsciously cursed, What the heck are you doing? Dont you want to let people sleep?


    Afterscreaming, I was wide awake. I turned to check the people on my left and right. They were all sleeping. No one was walking. Iimmediately understood that itwas the spirit!


    Li Mazi and the otherswoke up. Whats going on?


    Did you hear the footsteps? I asked.


    They all shook their heads.


    Were my nerves so sensitive that I hadahallucination?


    I walkedto the mirror to see if there werefootprintson the ashes. If the footsteps were real, there should be some traces.


    However, when I came to the mirror, I found that all the ashes were blown awayand had now piled upat the foot of the wall.


    Whats going on? Li Mazi was scared. Li Mazi was different fromBaldyand the other butchers. He just needed to look at me to know what Iwas thinking.


    While talking, he gently touched the mirror. As soon as his fingers touched thesurface,the huge mirror shattered!


    Thesshad broken intocountless thumb-sized pieces, scatteringon the ground.


    Baldyand the others heard the noise, so they came to see. At first nce, their facespaled in fright.


    Guys, you should all leave.


    I looked at the ss shards for a long time before I pulled myself together. I helplessly waved and dismissed theothers. I now knew I hadunderestimated the problem. My actions couldhave beenunder the spirits control the whole time.Perhaps, to the spirit, I wasnt different from a clown.


    Baldyalso recognized the seriousness of the situation. He didnt ask the butchers to stay anymore.


    Soon, all the butchers left. Only a bearded man remained. He looked at the ss shards on the ground then at me. His eyes sparkled as if he had something he wanted to tell me.


    Gao Erhu, if you need to say something, spit it out. Dontactlike a sissy! urgedBaldy.


    Gao Erhu took a deep breath. A few days ago, the mirror in my house also shattered like this.


    What? My pupils shrunkas I shifted my gaze to him.


    A fewdays ago, strange things started to happen in my house. Every night, at around midnight, my wife and Iwould beawakenedby aninexplicable coldness. We always felt thatsomeonewasgazing at us. Gao Erhu remembered.


    Baldywanted to say something, but I shot him a nceand signaled athim to notinterruptGao Erhus story.


    Later on,whilemy wife was taking a shower, she touched the mirror of the washstand. The mirror cracked and shattered. At first, I thought the mirror was old so it broke by itself. But now, it seems my houseis also haunted! Gao Erhuwas sweating. He had to wipe his forehead afterhe finished talking.


    I thought the spirit that had haunted Gao Erhus house could be somehow rted to the spirit that had wreaked havoc inthishotel. Anyway, since I had no clues, I decided to go to Gao Erhus house to see if I could help him.


    Baldywas anxious after I said that. Mr. Zhang, you cant just leave me like this!


    He thought that I wanted to take this excuse to dodge his case. I smiledand pattedhis shoulder. Dont worry! If Iveepted this case, I will take care of it to the end.He heaved a sigh of reliefand leftwith us.


    That night, the three of us followed Gao Erhu to his house. Although his house was in the countryside, it wasnt far fromthehotel. Due to the unbnce of the economy, his house was just a cottage. Thatwaswhy he had tried his best to sell pork in hopes ofmovingto the cityter.


    When we entered Gao Erhus house, I saw a massive cauldron in the yard.


    Its used to boil asphalt. We use asphalt to pluck the pigshairs.


    As it was around two or three oclock in the morning, the moonlight was bright and the sky was clear.A coldwind blew through the airand rattledthe iron hooks that were used to hold the meat. The noises they madewerentpleasant to the ears at all.


    Li Mazi gulped and whispered, Erhu, it feels really cold and dark in your ce. Arent you scared of living here?


    How could I not be scared? Gao Erhu looked even more panicked than Li Mazi.


    Shh!Baldysuddenly signaled us to stop talking. Then, he moved to meandcarefullysaid, Mr. Zhang, I feel that the thing that has messed up my hotel is here!


    Howdoyou know that?Baldywouldnt lie to me. If he saidthat, he must have found something.


    Its my intuition!Baldygritted his teeth. Ihavestayed in the officeon thesixth floor of the hotel since we started decoratingthe rooms.Inthe beginning, everything was normal.Buta few daysbeforethe grand opening,the entire floor felt so cold every night. I thought I was just exhausted, soI bought a lot of ginseng to eat. However, I couldnt resist the coldness.Thats why I think thatthe spirit Iveencountered and the one Gao Erhu has encountered are the same!When I walked into this yard, I immediatelyfeltthat cold aura. Its the sameasthe coldness in my hotel.


    After talking,Baldyrubbed his head. I didnt do anything bad. Why does it pester me?


    However, to me, it wasnt some random event.The spirit didnt decideto pester Gao Erhu andBaldyrandomly.


    I carefully assessedthehouse. Immediately, I spotted something wrong with the room on the right of the house.


    I closed my eyes and read thesacredtext of Daoism. I triedto calm down tobetter pinpointthelocation. Indeed, that ceexudedstrongYin energy.


    The problem started there. I opened my eyesand askedGao Erhu,After the mirror in your house shattered, didanythingelse happen?


    He searched throughhis memory then shook his head.


    You didnt even feelthe coldness at midnight? I found it unbelievable. ThestrongYin energy was streaming unceasinglyfromthatroom, and his house was still calm. It wasnt logical.


    Gao Erhusounded unhappy.No? Do you hope that something happens to my family?


    Hey, do youwant ourhelp or not? Li Mazi fumed. He pulled meand started to leave.


    I then recognized thatmy question wasnt worded properly. IcalmedLi Mazi then told the others about my doubts.


    Gao Erhu paledand stammered,Thatsthe toilet in my house! Master, you have to help me! Otherwise, I cant live here anymore!


    Dont be scared. We should take a look then.


    I asked Gao Erhu to open the door. Li Mazi grabbed meandworriedlyasked, LittleBrother Zhang, are we going in there without anytools?


    When Li Mazi asked me, I suddenly remembered the time we had dealt with the weapons list. We were almost killed because we were careless.


    You have a point. Go withBaldyto the car to fetch my Sirius Whip. You can alsopick other itemsthat you think might be useful, Isaid toLi Mazi andBaldy.


    I listened to Li Mazissuggestionjust to be safe. Li Mazi noddedand walked with Baldyout of the yard.


    The distance was just dozens of meters, so I didnt wait for him. After Erhu had opened the door for us, I followed him into the house.


    He turned on the lights and asked me to have a seat on the sofa. Then, he went to his bedroom to wake up his wife sothatshe could greet us, too.


    I smiled. I didnt expect that this burly, rough-looking manto havemanners.However, not long after hewasgone, he rushed out with a panic-stricken face. Tears filledhis eyes.Master, please save my wife!Shes Shes dying!


    I dropped the cup of teaand dashedto his bedroom. His wife wasonthe bed, sleeping. There was a thickyer of frost on her face,which gaveher theappearanceof a frozen corpseyou would see inamorgue.

 Chapter 471: Invincible

    Chapter 471: Invincible


    I pulled off the nketcoveringGao Erhus wife to check if her heart was still beating. Unexpectedly, the image of her two big breastsgreetedmy eyes!


    Ihastily movedthe nket back, blushing. Sorry,I didnt mean to see that.


    Gao Erhu shook his head. That doesnt matter right now! Master, saving her is more important!


    I tried to press my earagainstMrs. Gaos chestandheard her heartbeat. From the way her chest was heaving up and down,she seemed to besleeping!


    However, when I put my finger under her nose, I couldntfeel her breathing at all.


    I had a headache. I never encountered anything as mysterious as this. All I could rely on now was the Sirius Whip.


    I waitedfor quite a long time, but Li Mazi andBaldystill didntreturn. I called Li Mazi, but he didnt pick up the call.


    Irealized that something had gone awry and instantly rushed outside. Gao Erhu hesitated for a while buteventuallydecided to stay with his wife.


    I ranstraightto the car. When I opened the door, I saw the Sirius Whip and the otheritemsinside.After confirming that everything was fine, Iexhaled in relief.


    However,Li Mazi andBaldywere nowhere to be seen.The spirit must have bewitched them.I was lucky that Gao Erhus house was ina smallvigeandthat there was only one way out.


    I hurriedlygrabbedthe Sirius Whip and a few spirit talismans.Moving as fast as possible, I dasheddown the road andfound them at the vige entrance.


    They were moving like wooden marites, slowly advancing. I ranin front of themandscreamedtheir names, yet they didnt react.


    Ireadiedthe Sirius Whip,preparingto wake them up.But after thinking about it carefully,I decided to follow them to see if I could get any clues. I expected to see themheadsomewhere unsafe, but after a long walk, the two of them returned toBaldys hotel.


    Anyway,thisproved thatBaldys intuition was correct.This was done bythe same spirit that had wreaked havocin his hotel before!


    Since the twoignored my existence entirely, I didnt need to hideandjustfollowedbehind them. Unexpectedly, as soonas Li Mazi and Baldyentered the hotel lobby, theyturned around in unison. Their eyes had turned blood-redandtheir faces angry.


    Instinctively, I backed off.Who are you?


    Kid, dont put your nose in my business! Otherwise,this General will kill you! Li Mazi andBaldyopened their mouths, talking at the same time.Not only did they speak in unison, but their voices were also the same. They acted like a speaker for whoeverwas controlling them.


    I suddenly had astartling thought.Is this a pair of twin spirits?


    While I was still in a daze, the two approached me, reaching their handsforward. Istruggled, butLi Mazi and Baldyseemed to be possessed bya powerful, sinister being. They lifted me with one hand and hurled me away, sending me flying a few meters before hitting the ground.


    Amouthful of blood spewed from my mouth;I felt helpless.Icouldnt match the spirits strength at all,even though it was holding back. A small pushwas enough to makeme cough blood. There was no way I could fight it.


    When I pulled myself together and lifted my head to check Li Mazi andBaldy, they were gone,andI heard their footsteps upstairs.


    Not good!


    I cursed under my breath as I remembered the thick Yin energyonthe sixth floor this morning. Immediately, I sped up after them.


    When I passed the kitchen, I craned my neckinto the roomto see the hole.


    The kitchen was pit-ck, and although I couldnt see anything, I still heard the water gurgling from the deep hole. I knew it was because thespirithad left. Without the freezing Yin energy, the frozen soil was melting.


    Luckily, they werent movingtooquickly,and Icaught uptothemonthe third floor. I didnt darewaste any time, directlyshing the Sirius Whipatthem.


    They paused for amoment. Then,without turning their heads toeven look atme, they continued to climb the stairs.


    Impossible


    Thisspiritwas too strong, beyond any estimations Id made.However,I didnt give up. I read theBigDipper SiriusSpell and usedthe Heavenly Dipper Steptshthe whipatthem one more time.


    Li Mazi and Baldyscreeched, and amomentter, theygathered their senses, looking at me with a puzzled face.


    You two were bewitched by thespirit!Dont waste time. Lets go! I was worriedand screamed this sentence before I randownstairs.


    Li Mazi andBaldyfollowed close behind me. While descending, I feltvery anxious. Thisspiritwas really intimidating. Although the Sirius Whip expelledit outof Li Mazi andBaldys bodies,the spiritdidntrun away.


    But if it neitherattackednorran, whatwas its goal?


    Soon, wearrived onthe first floorandsaw a white shadowat a corner.From the shadows shape, I recognized that it was a man wearing heavy armor, his hair worn in a high bun.I guessed he was from the Han Dynasty.


    Even though I wasa few meters away, Icould feelthe formidable murderous energyemanating fromhis body.This murderous energy had never appeared before. Itseemed thatmyactionshad provoked him. I told Li Mazi andBaldyto backaway.


    I brought my palms togetherand bowedto the white shadow,speakingto him in an ancientstyle,Our hero over there, could you tell us what your name is? Whyhave youtroubled two innocent men?


    Sincehe had such a powerful aura, he must havebeen a famous figure when he was alive, andthese types of people always worriedabout losing face. Thatwaswhy I decided tospeaklike an ancient Chinese person would.


    Bullshit! Since when have I troubled innocent people? Youre the one whostroublingme. Who are youanyway? The white shadow fumed. He didnt answer my question about his identity.


    I had toaskfor his name again.


    Unexpectedly,he got even more suspicious. He angrily rolled his eyes at me, speaking through gritted teeth. You dont deserve to know my name!Spitit out,haveyou been sent by the enemy? Are you a spy?


    I was speechlessand feltthat the manwas paranoid.I hurriedto shakemy head.


    However, he was still angry. Hereachedhis hand toward me.


    Seeing the big handapproach me, Iwas forcedto take out a talisman and stick it on him. The spirit exuded ck smoke. He frowned, shouting coldly, You dareattack me! Youre an enemy spy! Im going to kill you!


    It turned out thathewas only testing me earlier, but now, he didreally wantto kill me.He wasnt afraid of my spirit talismans. Or, to be exact, my spirittalisman wasnt strong enough tohurt him.


    In just a blink of an eye, his big hand almost reached my throat. It was toote to dodge now. If he got me, my throat would becrushed! I wassoscared that my brain went nk.


    Fortunately, Li Mazi andBaldydidnt run awayandmovedto hold the spirits arms. I seized the chance and bit my tongue, spitting the blood on the talisman, which I then smashedon the spirits forehead.


    The forehead was where thespiritsYinenergy was gathered, and it was one of its weak points. After my sudden attack, the other party slowed down.


    This is a good opportunity! LittleBrother Zhang, kill him! Li Mazisaid happily.


    I was speechless.I then pulledBaldy and ranaway. Li Mazi was bewildered. It took him a moment toreturn to his sensesand run after us.


    Before we could leave the hotel, a gust of wind swept over us. Instinctively, I closed my eyes. When I opened them again, I saw thespiritstanding in our way.


    Damn!We have to take the risk and fight!


    The Sirius Whip was useless in this case, and I hadalreadyused all of my spirit talismansin the desperate attack just now.Weno longerhad a chance to run away. I shouted,raisingmy fistsandattacking in any way I could.


    My punch thatcarried almost my fullstrength hit histhroat.


    Despite this, the spirit didn''t react, seemingly not feeling the pain.He lifted his leg,sending a hard kickat my stomach. It felt like a truck had justhitme at max speed, andI was sentflying throughthe air. When Inded, my arm touched the ground first, gettingdislocated.


    Argh! I couldnthelp but scream.


    Li Mazi sawthat I washurt. He gritted his teethanddashedforward. He received the same treatmentand was sentflying backward.


    Baldywas scared. He hurried totake outa pistol, aiming at the spirit. Without thinking much, he pulled the trigger.


    Although the fact that agangster had a gun didnt shock me, hisactions surely did!


    The bullet went through thespirits body.The spirithad a look of disbeliefashe checkedhiswound.Then, he pointed at the pistol inBaldyshand, asking suspiciously, Whats that hidden weapon in your hand? Itsquitepowerful!


    Li Mazi muttered in my ear,LittleBrother Zhang,Im certain that someone will die today. How about weseize this chance and run away whilethat spiritis focusedon thatd?


    I was bewildered. Thinking about Yin Xinyue waiting for me at home and this invinciblespirit, I hesitated.


    Before I could make a choice,Li Mazi suddenly screamedexcitedly, Hes gone! Haha, we dont need to die!


    When I heard him, I turned around. Thespiritwas really gone.Baldyheld his pistnd sat on the ground,his forehead covered in sweat.


    Was he scared away by the gun? Li Mazi asked.


    Impossible. Hewasnt scared earlier, and the pistol isntverystrong. It can onlyinjureaphysicalbody. It cant hurtspirits.


    Perhaps hehadsomething more important to do?


    Baldywiped his sweat. He hadnt pulled himself together yetwhen he shouted,Something important likegoing to Gao Erhus!


    Damn, lets go! Gao Erhus in danger!


    AfterBaldys reminder, Irecalled that Ihad left Gao Erhu and his wife alone in their house to follow these two. Thespirithad disappearedand hadpossibly goGao Erhushouse!


    Iattemptedto use myhandto support myself, buta sharp painshot through my arm, which made me scream. I then remembered that my arm wasdislocated.


    Do you know how topopthe joint back in? I looked at Li Mazi, gritting my teeth.


    Adislocatedjoint wasnttoo worrying. People who knewhow to fix itjust needed to pull and straighten the bones to reconnect the joint. However, it was also easy to misalign the bones. Li Mazi observed my arm then shook his head.


    Let me do it!


    Aftercatching his breath,Baldycame and directly grabbed my arm. He asked Li Mazi to press on my shoulder de. He thengave a quick pull,and myjoint was popped back in.


    Iturredto me that it was normalformafia members to get hurt or have a dislocated shoulder like this. PerhapsBaldywas used to fixing joints.

 Chapter 472: Among Men, Lu Bu; Among Steeds, Red Hare

    Chapter 472: Among Men, Lu Bu; Among Steeds, Red Hare


    The three of us ran to Gao Erhus house. When we arrived, we saw that his wifewas awake.Contrary to our expectations, she didnt look to bein bad condition, nor was she dying!


    There was asmallpuddle of blood on the floor.It looked likethespiritwas here already.


    I looked around the housebutdidnt see Gao Erhu. Maam, wheres Gao Erhu?


    The woman didnt answer. Instead, she looked at ussuspiciously. Her eyes shedwith guilt. Who are you?


    Did she deceive Gao Erhu or something? Ordid thiscouple deceiveus?


    Either way, Gao Erhuwas missing, andI didnt have time to considerthe possibilities. I gave the woman a disdainful nce,saying,Maam, Im here to save Erhu. Youd better tell me where hes gone,oryoull regretit!


    Hes telling the truth. Maam, this is a powerfulmaster! Erhuasked him teto your house to captureaghost.Baldywalked forward, talking to the woman.


    The womans hesitation was evident from her expression as she lookedat us. After a long moment, she burst out crying. I dont know what happened to Erhu. He rushed into the backyard and sharpened his knife. Hes gone to kill Hou Saner.


    What? Killing someone?


    Li Mazis jaw dropped, and he questioned her words. Erhu looked like an honest man. Why would he kill somebody?


    I knew Gao Erhu was possessed, but when I asked the woman where Hou Saner lived, she didnt want to answer. Itappearedshe had something she wanted to hide.


    Fortunately,Baldyknew Hou Sanerand showed us the way to his house. Wegot in the car and drovetoward the mans ce. On the way,Baldytold us that Hou Saner was one of the butchers that helped us tonight. He had a close rtionship with Gao Erhu. Therewas noreasonforGao Erhu to kill him!


    Well see when we get there I rubbed my eyes.


    Tonight was full of surprises. I had a feeling that the truthwould be revealed soon, andI urgedBaldyto move faster.


    It was almost dawn, the first beam of sunlightshining onthe horizon. The air was cool and refreshing. Itgavepeoplea sense of rity and wellness.


    Eventually,Baldystopped his car in front of an independent vi in the vige. Thats Hou Saners house.


    I got out of the car and saw the gate wide open. Taking a few steps forward, Ifaintly heardthe nging noise oftwo metal objectsshingagainsteach other. I didnt dare linger any longer. Immediately, I headed toward the source of the noise. From a distance, I saw two peopleentangled in afight against each other.It wasGao Erhu and Hou Saner!


    Hou Saner was as slender as a bamboo stick. At firstnce,one would think that he wasthe weakest among thetwo. However,atthis moment, he wasfighting evenly withGao Erhu. Ireallyadmired his boldness!


    One had to remember that Gao Erhu was possessed by a spirit that even I was helpless against!


    Unexpectedly, Hou Saner suddenly turned to us, brutally screaming, Wheredidyoue from,pests? Get lost!


    His eyes were bloodshot,andhis voice rude,not sounding his age at all. Irealized thatHou Sanerwas also possessed.


    No wonder they were fighting!Two differentspiritswere usingtheir bodies to fight.


    I knew that if I didnt leave now, the two of them would join hands to attack me.Left with no choice, I waved at Li Mazi andBaldy, telling them to head back.


    After we left Hou Saners house, we heard them fighting again. Seeing thatthesun was about toe out,Li Mazisaid anxiously,LittleBrother Zhang, should we really leave like this?


    He also knewthat this was a rare chance. I looked at the mini vi, and when I saw that the lightswereon, I suddenly had an idea.


    Do you know the phone number of Hou Saners wife? I askedBaldy.


    Baldychecked his phone for a long timeand eventually found it. I asked him to call her.


    Soon enough, thecall wentthrough. A woman was sobbingatthe other end of the line.


    Mrs. Hou, were here to save Hou Saner. Were at your door. Could you tell me what happened before those guysgot into a fight? I snatched the phoneand quickly questioned her.


    The voice on the other end whined for a while before speaking up with a trembling voice.I dont know. My husband and I were sleeping, but we were awakenedbya sudden chill. When I opened my eyes, I saw a shadow standing in front of our bed, holding a big knife. Heughed and said that hehad tokill Old Hou. He keptrantingtoo.


    Whatwas he saying?


    Shameless traitorwhosoldhismaster for gloryor something like that. Hespoke in a very outdated fashion, too. He sounded like someone from ancient times. However, when I turned on the light, I saw Gao Erhu.


    The womancontinued with disbelief, Erhu is my husbands best buddy.Yet,hes here tokillus!Whatseven strangeris,when Old Hou saw Erhu attempting to kill him, he was baffledat first. Then, he slumped onto the ground, shivering. When he got up again,it was as if he becameanother person. Even his voice changed


    Iwas startingtogathersomething from listening to the woman. However, it wasnt enough to draw any conclusions. I asked her tostay on the lineand tie the phone to a rope, dropping it to where the other two were fighting.


    Shortly after, the woman stopped talking, andI heardarattling noise, which told me she was releasing the rope.


    Around two minutester, I heard people yelling and fighting.


    Gao Erhu shouted, Hou Cheng! Youturned your back on meand joined the despicable Cao! Tonight, Iwilltake your dog life!


    The spirit in Hou Saners bodyughed oddly. Well, a smart bird knows where to perch.Youvealways been arrogant, Lu Fengxian! Youve wasted the steed Red Hare and the Sky Piercer! You only sought pleasure with Diao Chan andtreated us like ves! Whyshouldwe serve you?


    Then, they resumed their fight. Li Mazi andBaldydropped their jaws in shock when they heard that.


    Although we now knew the truth, a strong wave of emotionrosein my heart.


    Thespiritweencounteredthis time is that of the Warlord Lu Bu!


    Ifthis is true, the otherworldly item could be the Sky Piercerhis halberd!


    Lu Bu wasa very notable figure in history. He waspeerless and was invincible in his time. When the eighteen feudal vassals nned to attack Dong Zhuo, Lu Bu defeated the generals of the joined army as if he were chopping vegetables.


    He was even more famous after the Battle in Ho Pass, where he had a greatbattleagainst Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei.


    Although formidable generals were asmon as clouds during the era of the Three Kingdoms, everybody thought that Lu Bu was the invincible one. Thatwaswhy Chinese people had a proverb saying, Among men, Lu Bu; among steeds, Red Hare.


    Unfortunately, Lu Bu waster besieged by Cao Caos great army in Xu Province.Hou Cheng  Lu Bus subordinate  had stolen the Sky Piercer while Lu Bu was sleeping. Then, he tied up Lu Bu and turned the general over to Cao Cao.


    Cao Cao beheaded Lu Bu and gave his steed, Red Hare, to Guan Yu. However, the Sky Piercerwentmissing ever since.


    I was so excitedthatmy hands wereshaking. The Sky Piercer wasan extraordinaryweapon, one ofthemost famousweapons in the era of the Three Kingdoms.Forget its worth in the modern-day;even if it wasin ancient times, it was already priceless!


    Li Mazi wasstunnedfor a long time. When he pulled himself together, he screamed excitedly, LittleBrother Zhang,this isa good chance for us to get rich!


    I didntreply.Nheless, I was strangely happy. Even if itwerentthe Sky Piercer, it would still be a superb, priceless otherworldly item.Moreover, Hou Cheng was also involved.In history, this man was famous as well.Thus, the otherworldly item that he waspossessingshould be worth a lot of money!


    After screaming, Li Mazi looked at me bewilderedly. Why do I feel thatyou knewit wasLu Bubefore this? How did you know that?


    Thatspiritwore armor popr in the era of the Three Kingdoms.Moreover, itfelt like he wasinvincible. At that time, Inner Mongolia belonged to the Bing Province. Therearentmany famous historical figures from Bing Province,letalone famous generals. Thats why Iimmediatelythought about Lu Bu!


    My brother sure is amazing! Li Mazisaid happily. Then, he asked in a low voice, But what should we do now?


    We can only wait. In the morning, weddress bothof them.


    Guan Yu couldnt defeatLu Buafter fifty rounds, soHou Cheng was nothing in his eyes.Since they were on equal footing in their battle, I assumed it was because I previously wounded Lu Bu.


    I suddenly had anastyidea. I askedBaldyto drive us back to his hotel. When we arrived, I took the bags of unused lime and pouredthe contentinto the hole where Lu Bu was taking shelter.Afterward, I added water.


    Soon, the lime boiled up, and awave of heat expanded from the hole. The three of us had to backaway.


    I asked Li Mazi to pick up all the things weleft in the car. Then, we waited for Lu Bu toreturn.


    The mixture of lime and water could generate hightemperatures, which wasveryeffectivewhen it came to stoppingYin energy.The heat would produceYang energy, the representative of justice. Yu Qian, an official in the Ming dynasty,wrotethe Song ofLimetoplimentthe material,saying that it was so tenacious thatit wouldnt break even afterbeing hammered a thousandtimes.


    After a night offighting, Lu Buwouldreturnhereto replenish his Yin energy. At that time, the strong Yang energy from the lime would forcefully swallow his Yin energy. This time, I had even brought the Yin and Yang Umbre, so it should be easy to capture him.


    After we prepared everything, Li Maziasked gingerly,Do you want todeal withHou Cheng first? Itll beeasier to deal with him than with Lu Bu.


    Eh? I looked at him in surprise. Although Li Mazi had a smooth tongue, he was never toointelligentwhen dealing with otherworldly items. This time, he suddenly became much smarter.


    I dont know why, but I feel thatits better not to mess withLu Bu today. My intuitionis tellingme that something unexpectedwillhappen! Li Mazisaid casually.


    However, listening to him, my heart suddenly sank. As we had been working in this business for quite a long time, we always trusted our sixth sense. I decided to listen to hiswarning. We packed up and went to Hou Saners house.


    Before we approached his house, we heardanoise. Someone wasmenting and crying, and peoplewere speakingin low voices. I had an awfulpremonition. When we entered his yard, we sawafuneral hall being set up.


    A rough coffin that hadnt been painted was ced opposite the vi. Some men were using brushes topaintthe coffin red.


    Not far from the coffin, a thickyer of blood was found on the ground. It was the ce where Lu Bu and Hou Cheng had fought before dawn.


    Hou Sanerisdead?


    I walked pastthe group of peopleto enter the house. A woman wearing linen mourningclothes was sitting on the edge of a bed, wiping her tears.


    Baldymuttered to me that she was Hou Saners wife. It seemed Hou Saner was dead.


    It was a little out ofceif we askedany questions now. However, I had to try,and I went up andpattedher shoulderas Isaidmy condolences.


    She was surprised when she heard my voice. In the next second, she lifted her head, shooting me a nce that conveyed her loathing. Itappeared that she hated us becausewe didnt save her husband when he was in danger.


    I did think about saving him, but Iwasnt strong enough to stop them!


    Maam, how did brother Hou pass away?Baldywas a talkative person.Yet,atthis moment, he seemed to chokeonhis words.


    With a sorry face, he implored Hou Saners wife to tell us the situation.That''show we couldgetrevenge for Hou Saner!

 Chapter 473: Li Mazis Worries

    Chapter 473: Li Mazi''s Worries


    When Hou Saners wife heard the wordrevenge,her dispirited eyesbegan to sparkle. In the next moment, she got on her knees in front of me, sobbing and imploring me to take revenge for her husband.


    Hou Saner and Gao Erhuwere having an evenly-matched fight. You all saw that. Then, at the break of dawn, I suddenly heard a shriek. I rushed to the window and saw Hou Saner bewilderedly looking at Gao Erhu. He didnt seem to know what was going on. He even asked why Gao Erhu was there, but Gao Erhu didnt answer him.Instead, he tookhis knifeand started shing


    Hou Saners wife couldnt keep herself from cryingagain.


    Lu Bu wasbetrayedby his own subordinate, Hou Cheng.With this in mind, perhaps he came to take revenge on Hou Chengs descendant.As he was his ancestor, Hou Cheng showed up to protect Hou Saner, butter ran away for some reason.


    Unfortunately,Hou Saner wasstuck bearing the brunt of Lu Bus wrath as a substitute.


    If Hou Cheng came to save Hou Saner, it meant his soulwas livingin some otherworldly item. I asked again, Maam, do you have any antiques or a family heirloom in your house?


    Hou Saners wife snorted. Thats your real goal here, isnt it?


    Then, she wanted us to leave.


    Lacking any other way to convince her, I had to tell the truth. Maam, Impositive thattheresanevil antique in your house. Didnt younoticethat Hou Saner was acting like apletely different personst night when he fought Gao Erhu?In reality,itwasafight between two ghosts.Controlling Hou Saner was the ghost hiding intheantique in your house. If we dontresolve this, you will also die.


    What did you say? Hearing me, Hou Saners wife slumpedtothe ground, her face incredulous.


    Hergazeshifted from us to her husbands coffin. In the end, shesaid, You should visit the Hou familys ancestral hall!


    The Hou familys ancestral hall? I frowned.


    Yeah, the Hou familyhasa treasure hidden in their ancestral hall. Its precious, I guess.Throughout all the time weve been married, I have never seen that treasure.All Iknow is that the treasure is kept inside a ck iron chest. Whenmy husbandwas alive, he told me that its a family heirloom that datesback to the Eastern Han Dynasty. Its been in our family for generations. If its a family heirloom, why would it harm a member of this family?


    Hou Saners wife had criedsomuch that shedalmost lost her voice. She pulled herself together andstoodup, writing me an address. She then looked for the key in her drawer, handingitto me. She asked me to return it to her when I was done.


    Dont worry, maam.I wont let brother Hous death bein vain!


    Itookthe keyandrespectfullybowed to her. Then, I drove directly to the Hou familys ancestral hall.


    On the way there, I felt thatthings werent that simple. There were a total of three subordinates that had betrayed Lu Bu.Asidefrom Hou Cheng, theother two wereSong Xian and Wei Xu.


    WithLu Bus ghostbeingawakened, he wouldnt justsettle forHou Saner. Song Xians and Wei Xus descendants wouldnt escape thistribtion, either.


    I askedBaldy, Whatwasthe surname of the officials son?


    Wei. Whats wrong?Baldydidntunderstand.


    I shook my head. Nothing.


    The next targetwasSong Xians descendant. If Lu Buwasnt dealt with, more people would die.


    I didnt understand why Lu Bu had chosen the hotels grand opening to show up.


    Baldywasalways in the hotel, and if therewasa grudge between them, he should have been killed already. Iftherewasntany animosity, why did Lu Bu burn his hotel?


    Moreover, the incident with Gao Erhus wife was alsostrange.Theseclues were like threads that were weaving acrosseach other, tangling in my head. However, nothing was clear.


    Li Mazi called me, Somethings wrong.


    Whats that?


    He pointed at the cornfields alongside the road. Weve alreadypassed a few viges, and theGPSshowsthat werejust halfway there.Did that woman trick us?


    The ancestral hallmustbe built in a remote area. We should take a nap in the meantime.


    I thought Li Mazi had changed. He was too sensitive. Ipaid him no more heed, closing my eyes for a nap.


    Since I didnt sleepst night, Iquickly fell asleep. When Li Mazi woke me up, wehad reached our destination.


    I shook my head to clear my mind and got out of the car. Li Mazi pulled me back. Baldyand I alreadylookedaround.The ancestral hall is deserted, and theres a big, rusted lock on the gate. We looked through the window, but the inside was empty. Nothings there!


    Impossible! Iwas unconvinced and headedtoward the ancestral hall.


    While walking, I looked around. This vige was really small, and the houses were too far away from each other. Sometimes, random people wouldwalk alongthe road, but none of them paid attention to us.


    The so-called ancestral hall was a shabby, tile-roofed house. Manyof the tileswere broken, and the remaining ones were covered with green moss. The yardwas covered inlush grass, which also looked tattered.


    I frowned, walking to the window to check inside.As soon as I approached the window, I felt strong Yin energy.


    Sinceit was daytime, I couldnt recognizewhat kind of ghost it was.However, I felt the Yin energy permeating the entire ancestral hall. It was just like Li Mazi had told me. There was nothing inside the hall.


    I didnt dare to act rashly. I rushed back to the car to take the Yin and Yang Umbre, ck dog blood, refined salt, and a line marker. I gavetheitems to Li Mazi andBaldy.I think theres something inside the hall. You guys should be careful!


    With the Yin and Yang Umbre on my back, I felt much more resolute. I asked Li Mazi to unlock the gate.


    Hehada wry smile. I also wanted to open it, but the locks center is filled


    What?


    I held the lock in my hand, checking. Someone had poured liquid steel into the lock to fill it.We couldnt open it now.


    Im afraid someonehas been herebefore us


    Li Mazi sighed. This steel has only recently beenpoured into this lock. LittleBrother Zhang, we should go back.The other party has given us a warning. We shouldntmeddle withthis!


    He looked helplessas he said this.


    Baldywas a righteous man. He kept silent for a while before smacking his head. All right, Im going to change the location of my hotel! Li Mazi is right. You dont need to risk your life for me!


    Li Mazi, youve been acting off today. I shot Li Mazi a strange look.


    LittleBrother Zhang, Ru Xue called me. Shes pregnant, soI dont want my kid to be born without a father Li Mazi stooped his head, his voice low.


    No wonder Li Maziwas actingstrangeduring this entiretrip!


    Nevertheless, I wastedfor him. You should go home first.Leavethe restto me!


    I cant do that. Li Mazi sighed.Ifwere lucky,everything will go well. Ifwere unlucky, we cant escape no matter how hard we try!


    Then, he took out a small saw deand beganto saw the lock off.


    Soon, Li Mazi broke the lock.The moment the door was pushed open, a strong wind blew out. I felt my scalp be numb.


    I opened the umbre, taking the lead, and dashedinto the room.


    If this roomwasempty, there should be some secret passage or hidden chamber.

 Chapter 474: The Black Iron Chest

    Chapter 474: The ck Iron Chest


    Thecoldwind didntst long. After the three of us entered the hall, the wind ceased.


    Weused our shlight to search around the ancestral hall for quite a long time. Eventually,Baldyfound something strange!


    He found a piece of tilethatwas a different color from the others. Itwas just a bit lighter and, withoutclose examination,the differencewouldnt be recognizable.


    I walked to that tile and got on my knees,givingit a few good knocks. The sounds echoed lightly.It appeared that there was a space underneath.


    I couldnt hidemy happiness. Excitedly, I rushed back to the car to fetch the big wrench used in case of a t tire. I stabbed it into the slit between the tiles and pried.I was soon able topry up a t blue stone b.


    Li Mazi andBaldyhurried to hold the stone b,exerting themselvesto lift it and put it aside. A pit-ck entrance appeared in our sights. At the same time, a cold wind howled through thehole.


    I hurried to pull the other two aside. After the windpletelydisappeared, I took the lead,goingdownthe hole.


    There was a smalldder connected to the entrance, andafter around ten steps, we got to the bottom. At the same time, Iwas hit with thestrong, pungentodorofadposing corpse. It seemedthere was adead bodyaroundthis entrance.


    Despite Li Mazis attempts to brighten the area with his shlight, the Yin energy wassothick that the column of light fromtheshlight couldnt go far enough.


    Be careful! I remindedmypanionsone more time.


    Slowly and carefully, Iedged forward, afraid that I could identally touch any gears which would trigger some hidden mechanism.


    After walking for dozens of meters, anold squaretable appeared in front of us. Our eyes hadfinally adjustedto the darkness, soI vaguely saw a few red trays on the table,whichheld some withered, dried fruits, and other offerings.


    The tablewas covered witha thickyer of dust, appearing asifno one hade here to clean the ce for years. Behind the table stood a shelfthatheld a row of ck jars. Each of the ck jars had a portrait of a person on the back.


    Those wereprobablythe Hou familys ancestors.I gave them a respectful bow, muttering,Please dont me or punish us as we identallydisturbyour rest!


    Then, I moved around the table, heading toward the area exudingthe rotten corpse smell.


    It seemed it was the first timeBaldyhade to such a ce. He had ayer of sweat on his face, and he pinched his nose,notdaringto breathe while following me.


    I reached the ce where the pungent odor of a dposing body was emanating.I then saw a big, darkblue iron chest.


    Perhaps its the family heirloom the woman told us about, but why does it smell so bad? Li Mazi observed the iron chest. However, even after searching fora longtime, he couldntunderstandhowto open it.


    It seems wecouldn''topen this chest!


    Baldytook outhis pistol. How about usingapistol to open it?


    I thought for a moment and concluded that it was the onlyoptionwehad. I moved aside, givingBaldyroom. He shot the iron chest twice,andwe allwent overto check, findinga crack in the middle of the chest.


    This chest was made by a master. Once it was closed, the gears inside wouletogether. It seemed one of the bullets hadshakenthe gears and dislocated them, resulting inthis crack.


    I rushed to the chest and tried to open it. I didnt mind theterriblesmell, craning my neck to see what was inside.


    We thought that itwould betheir familys treasure. Shockingly, it was Hou Saners head inside the chest!


    Baldyhad followed me to take a look. Seeing the head, he couldnthelp but jerkbackward. Hendedon his buttandvomited.


    My stomach alsotwitched. A few hours ago, we saw this man fighting Gao Erhu in the yard. Hoesomeone cut off his head and put it here?


    LittleBrother Zhang,lets get out of here! That woman has tricked us!


    Li Mazi soundedverycalmatthis moment. He pulledBaldyup, and together, we ran outside. I suddenlyfigured it out. The problemwaswith Hou Saners wife!


    She proactively gaveusthe key to this ancestral hall and deliberately told me that the family heirloom was hidden in this iron chest.Whatwashergoal in this?


    Isnt she afraid that I would go back and deal with her after I saw the head?Or does she believe that Iwont be able to escape this ce?


    Suddenly, I had a bad premonition. I screamed, feeling panicked,Hurry! Get out of here!


    Unfortunately, we were toote! As soon as Ifinished speaking, I heard a low thud above our heads. The stone b we had lifted was put backinits ce.


    At the same time, a shadow appeared in front of us, slowly condensing and bingmore discernible. From its thin, weak figure, we guessed it was Hou Saners ghost.


    Brother San, dont worry. I will take revenge for you!Baldywas scared, shivering.


    Take revenge? Hou Sanerughed,the sound coarseand low.


    Then, he gazed atBaldy.Youre the one that deserves to die the most! If you hadnt awakened Lu Bu, I wouldnt have been killed!


    He didnt even look at us, flying straight towardBaldy. I opened the Yin and Yang Umbre,creating a shieldin front ofthe man.


    The Yin and Yang Umbre emitted ck and white lights of Yin and Yang energy. Hou Saners ghost shrieked in pain, and hehurriedlyretreatedbefore shootingme a malicious nce. Who are you?


    Its not important who I am. The important thing is finding outwhy you want to take revenge on him.Lu Bu is your enemy, not him. I spoke up coldly.


    Hou Saners ghostly face turned extremely ferocious. If it werent for him, Lu Bus ghost wouldhave neverawoken!


    Hou Saner was strangely angry. He didnt sound as though he was lying.Anyway, this also connected to thequestion prominent in my mind this whole time. Why did Lu Bu wake up? I decided todiscreetlyask Hou Saner for theentirestory.


    Even though Hou Saner hatedBaldyto the bones, he was scared of my Yin and Yang Umbre.After hesitating for a while, he decided to tell me the truth.


    To attract more customers to his hotel,Baldychose the nameMoon Overshadowing Beauty.Every night, he would hold agrandparty where he invited a bunch of attractive call girls. Plus, to ensure that the hotel fits its name, he spent a huge sum of money to ask some famousartiststo paint several pictures of Diao Chan, which he hungonthe highest floor.


    To describe these paintings simply, the beauty was drawn without clothes. She waspletely exposed to the extentthat even modern people would blush whilelooking ather drawings. Let alone an ancient man from two thousand years ago!


    Lu Bu and Diao Chanweredeeplyin love. When Lu Bu was killed at White Gate Tower, Diao Chan had a chance to survive, but her love and loyalty to Lu Buwere too great.Ultimately, they both died.


    Naturally, Lu Bus ghostwas extremely enraged when he saw the woman he loved humiliatedlike that. Thatwaswhy the big fire had happened during the hotels grand opening.


    Being the God of War in the era of the Three Kingdoms, Lu Bu had been arrogant, rebellious, and unwilling to be subdued by anybody.In spite of this, he had knelt in front ofDiao Chan.Thiswas also the reasonbehindhis tragic death.


    People would remember the image of Lu Bualone withhis Sky Piercer standing imposingly in front of Ho Pass before thefiercebattle against Liu Bei, Guan Yu, andZhang Fei.However, that invincible man couldnt protect his lover, and heter became a notorious servant.


    Thatwaswhy Lu Bu had three fixations in his heart. One was Diao Chan,anotherwas his reputation, and thest was to take revenge on his subordinates who had betrayed him!


    The officials son, who was the first to die, was Wei Xus descendant.The manhappened toe to the hotel onitsgrand opening day, andLu Bu thought that Wei Xu wanted to harm him again. Thatwaswhy he killed that poor young man.


    However, Lu Bus wrathhad not been abated withonly one death. Henned to findSong Xians and Hou Chengs descendants and kill them all.Later,Baldyidentally invited Hou Sanerto the grand opening.Lu Budidnt know how tofindhis targets, butthey had delivered themselves to his door!


    Lu Buthenpossessed Gao Erhus body. At midnight, he sharpened his knife and went to kill Hou Saner. However,his n had not consideredthat Hou Chengs soul hadnt vanished yet. When themasterand the servant met again after two thousand years, they couldnt help but have a fierce fight!


    Although Lu Bu had been seriouslyinjured, Hou Cheng was not able to standashisequal.In the end, he was scaredand ended upfleeing. Thatwaswhy Hou Saner was killed.


    After listening to the whole story, I couldnthold backa sigh.Karma was too real.Somethingthat had taken ce two thousand years ago wascausing troubletoday.


    Li Mazi smacked his tongue. Isnt it too melodramatic? I think its even better than television dramas.


    After listening to his story,Baldylooked as if he was about to crack. I patted his shoulder. You dont need to me yourself. Ifnotyou, someone else wouldhave wokenup Lu Buone day.


    WhenLu Bu was killed,the seed of karmahad beennted. No one could stopwhat was happening!


    I turned to Hou Saner, asking, What happened to your head?


    My ancestor Hou Cheng put it there. He told me that I was killed because of what he had done in the past. He wanted me to be there with him to enjoy theter generations worship.


    Hou Saners voicelowered. However, Im dead already. What goodisworship?


    When hefinished speaking,everything wasclear. Hou Saners wife had deceived us, making use here topensate forher husbandslife with ours.She sure was ruthless, but afterthinking about her life as a widow and her children, I pitied her.


    If we continued to attack each other, more grudges would be created.If this continued, whenwouldthisviciouscycle end?


    I decided to solve the dispute between them. I turned and gave a deep bow to the iron chest, respectfully calling, General, please show yourself!Willyouagree toe and talk to me?


    The iron chest didnt react. I was skeptical and puzzled, turning to look at Hou Saner. He pointed at the Yin and Yang Umbre in my hand.


    Iunderstood what he meant. The Yin and Yang Umbre wasatop treasure that had both Yin and Yang energy. Even Lu Bu was scared of it, let alone Hou Cheng!


    I closed the Yin and Yang Umbre, putting it away. Then, I sincerely asked Hou Saners ghost,Brother Hou, please invite your ancestor here to see us! Ifwe dont solvethegrudgebetween your ancestor and Lu Bu, your Hou family will have more deaths in the future!


    The ghost hesitated for a while.Eventually, he got on his knees,kowtowing twiceto the iron chest.


    A gust ofcoldenergy swirled up from the chest, blowing toward us.


    A vague figure appeared midair, wearingheavyarmor and a helmet. He even had a thick beard.


    It wasHou Cheng, Lu Bus subordinate!


    After showing up, Hou Cheng coldly red at me from hiselevated position. Kid, what do you want to see me for?


    I gave a dry cough,cuppingmy fists. Do you n to hide in this ancestral hall forever,sir?Do you want to see Lu Bu uproot your Hou family?


    Nonsense! Although I, Hou Cheng, was no hero, I wont harm or get my descendants involved in this. Itwasnot my will to return to this ancestral hall to take shelter. After Ive recovered my energy, I will show Lu Bu my strength! Hou Cheng somewhat blushed, thunderingin response to my instigation.


    I disdained him inwardly. However, Icontinued, Putting aside the fact that youre fighting him alone, even if Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei joined hands, do you think they could defeat Lu Bu?


    Hou Chengwas silent, and acold wind blew through the room. It seemed he understood the matter well.


    After a while, Hou Cheng asked sheepishly,Kid, what do you think? What should I do?


    This was a good sign. It seemed he also wanted to put aside the grudge with Lu Bu. As such,it would be much more convenient for me to solve this case.


    I put on a respectful and admiring face,saying,General Hou Cheng, for the people in Xu Province, you reluctantly submitted Lu Bu to Cao Cao. And now, for the sake of your descendants, youve decided toendyour grudge against Lu Bu. I have to admire your generous deeds,sir!


    After saying these disgusting words, Ihated myself.


    Hou Cheng lifted his head, squinting as if he was enjoying my praise. A momentter, he said indifferently. Just tell me what to do!


    After he said this, his figure shed, disappearing into the iron chest.


    Brother Hou,what do you want to do now? I asked Hou Saners ghost.


    He sounded a little embarrassed. I was blinded by my grudge and hatred, to the point where Ialmost made a big mistake. If my ancestor decides toendthe grudge against Lu Bu, I havenoment. However, please bring my head back to my body. I want to be buriedwith aplete body.


    I knew he was ready to go, so I nodded to him. Brother Hou, dont worry! I will help your wife holda properfuneralfor you.


    Thank you, brother! Hou Saner told me,ughing and disappearing.


    Where did he go?


    Baldydidnt understand the situation.


    He saw through his hatred and grudge. He understood thebenefit of letting go of his desires. Withoutthisfixation, of course, he will leave and reincarnate.


    Then, I went to the iron chest to take Hou Saners head, putting it into a stic bag. Carefully, I closed the iron chest. After everything was done, we left the ancestral hall.


    On the way back, Li Mazi asked me, LittleBrother Zhang, who lifted the stone b for us?


    I was stunned!

 Chapter 475: Gao Erhus Conspiracy

    Chapter 475: Gao Erhu''s Conspiracy


    While I was talkingto Hou Saners ghost,Ipletelyforgotthis point!


    Thisproved that someone had been stalkingus right from the beginning.Whowasthatperson?


    To imprison us in the hidden chamber, someone had moved the stone b back to its original position.Yet, the b waster lifted.Why didthis personfree us?


    When we returned to Hou Saners house, his wife was preparing to bury him. Shebecame frightened and paled when she saw us, rushing to hide inside her house.We didnt hurryand continued towalk after her. In the end, we stopped her at the door.


    You Are you humans or ghosts? Hou Saners wifeasked, shivering.


    Li Mazi fumed,Of course, Im human! We were kind enough to help you, and you wanted to kill us!


    Shecouldnt believe what shed heard, gawking in shock. Are you really humans?


    Maam, I talked to brother Hous ghost when I was in your familys ancestral hall.Whats done is done; lets put the past behind us! Iconveyed my unwillingness to me her for what urred before cingthe bagcontainingHou Saners head on the table.


    Whats that?


    You knowwhat this is. You should give brother Hou a proper and respectful burial;leave the rest to us. Then, I took Li Mazi andBaldy, leaving Hou Saners house.


    It had been more than thirty hourssince we had a proper sleep.We were all worn out, and as soon as we returned to Baotou City, wefound a hotel to sleep in.


    This slumbersted until the morning of the next day. As soon as I woke up, I askedBaldytohave his employees remove the drawings ofDiao Chan situatedonthe highest floor of the hotel.Thiswould somewhat ease Lu Bus rage.


    With this done, we went to Gao Erhus house. As soon as wearrived atthevige entrance, we saw him driving a tricycle cargo truck full of pork.


    While driving, he was humming somethingin a rxed manner.


    He stopped when he saw us, asking skeptically, Hi, guys. Why are you here?


    It seemed he remembered nothing about the incidentst night. I was toozy to exin the situation,so I simply said, Yesterday, you told me that there was somethingevil inyour house. Im here to check it out.


    What? Something evilsin my house? Gao Erhu was bewildered. He looked aroundfor a moment before speaking,Master, please dont scare me. My family is all right. How could some evil live in our house!


    Gao Erhu didnt sound very eager to invite us into his house. He drove his tricycle truck away, leaving a fume of ck smoke behind.


    Li Mazi looked at him, his eyes turningplicated.


    Whats wrong? I asked.


    Do you think Gao Erhu was the one whowaswatching us at the Hou familys ancestral hall? Li Mazi suddenly asked.


    My heart sank.It is possible!


    They were both pestered by ghosts.Hou Saner was murdered, but Gao Erhu was totally fine.


    In addition,there wasanother important clue. Yesterday, Gao Erhuwas beggingme to help him, but this morning, it was as if he were pletely differentperson. It was possible that he didnt have any memories during the period when Lu Bu possessed him,but when he took usto his home, hesawhis wife stop breathing.He begged me to save her!Thisshouldnt be something he could forget after one night!


    From this, it was clear that therewassome problem with Gao Erhu!


    In order to not alert anybody, I asked Li Mazi andBaldyto drive away. I would stay here alone.


    Gao Erhus house was situated deep in the vige. Behind the house was a timber yard where many logs were stacked neatly, having not beenprocessed yet. I scanned the surroundings and found no one.Without any further dy, I climbed on a pile of logs toreachGao Erhus roof.


    Gao Erhu didnt returnforthe entire morning, andI wondered what he was doing. Gao Erhus wife walked out of the house a few times, but she looked all right. There was nothing suspicious about her.


    Around twilight, Gao Erhu came home. The meat stacked on his tricycle truck was gone.Did he go out to sell meat for the whole day?


    Gao Erhu parked the tricycle truck in the yard and pulled a stuffed bag off the truck. It looked like some herbal medicines.


    I had a feeling that this bag would be anessentialclue. I carefullywentinto his house, hiding in a cornerandpricking my ears to listen.


    Darling, Ive bought the medicines thatLu Buhas prescribed for you.Remember to use it on time. We have to use poison to treat poison as he told us. Im sure youll be all right. Gao Erhu spoke with a tender voice.


    After listening to him, I was a little bewildered. Soon,I understood the situation. Gao Erhu was possibly the descendant of Gao Shun, Lu Bus loyal subordinate!


    Gao Shun was Lu Bus general and close confidant when he was alive. Hemandedalegion of five hundred elite vanguards. After Lu Bu was captured, Cao Cao tried many times to entice and recruit Gao Shun. However, Gao Shunremainedloyalto Lu Bu, and in the end, both of them were murdered.


    Thisexined why Lu Bu appeared in Gao Erhus house and didnt harm Gao Erhu and his wife.


    Lu Bu didnt want to pester them. He wanted to repay Gao Shuns loyalty!


    From what Gao Erhu had just said and the situationst night where his wife was almost frozen, Iguessed that she was severely ill. Lu Bu had used his Yin energy to seal her veins and help easeher symptoms.


    My heart somewhat ached. People ofter generations thought that Lu Bu was aruthlesswolfandan ungrateful person. No one knew that even though two thousand years hadpassed,Lu Budidnt forget Gao Shuns loyalty to him that year!


    I felt a little moody. People only knew of Lu Bus invincible prowess in battle, but no one understood his sentimental heart.


    If Lu Bu were truly a sentimental person, I would feel more confident in persuading him.However,since Gao Erhu deceived mepreviously, I had to see what he would do next. I needed to know the root of this.


    While thinking, I texted Li Mazi, asking him to collect the items we often used andto be preparedtoe and support me.


    The skyquicklyturned dark. Gao Erhu cooked dinner for his wife and helped her swallowhermedicine.


    After everything was done,hetook his wife to the bed. Then, he put on a raincoatand left.


    I hid in a corner. Confirming that he had left the house, I carefully followed him.Unfortunately, hedecided to usehis tricycle truck, and I wasunable tocatch up with him.


    Atthis moment, Li Mazi called. Hey, how are you doing?


    Gao Erhu just left. Hes drivingthe tricycle truck, soI cant catch up with him. Come and fetch me. I hung up thephone, waiting for Li Mazi.


    Around twenty minutester, Li Mazi andBaldyarrived.


    What took you so long? I frowned.


    Baldys facial expressionlooked as if he had just returned from a funeral. Master, someonecausedtroubleatthe hotel. When Li Mazi and Iwentback, we did as you askedand removedall of Diao Chanspictures off the wall.Yet, when we were about tohead outtogetyou, the pictureshad been returnedto their spots


    Isuddenly noticedthat they were covered in sweat,and there was a bloodstain on Li Mazis arm.


    What happened? I asked him.


    Ru Xue was pregnant. If I let something bad happen toLi Mazi, I couldnt exin it to her!


    Nothing much. I dont know who, but someonehung those naked drawings of Diao Chanback up. Lu Buwasenraged. If we hadnt been fast enough, we would have beendeadalready.


    All right! Its good that youre fine!


    I sighed and patted their shoulders. I got in the car,readyto find Gao Erhu.


    This vige only had one main road. It was impossible to use our car to chase after Gao Erhus tricycle truck without being noticed.


    At first, Ilimitedthe cars speed as I was afraid that Gao Erhu would notice us. Gradually, I felt something strange.


    Gao Erhuwas going in the direction of Baldys hotel!


    Damn it! I was bewildered at first, but I quickly pulled myself together. I cursed then stepped on the elerator.


    Whats wrong? Li Mazi didntnotice the issue.


    We underestimated Gao Erhu! Damn it! I panted.


    Gao Erhu had fooled us all. Hepurposely put on a showthis morning, aiming to catchour attentionandseize more time for Lu Bu!


    He deliberately chose todrive the tricycle truck away too! He did that to force Li Mazi toe and fetch me, leaving the hotel unattended!


    I wascertain thatLu Bu was now madly enraged since I had used lime tobesiegehim in the hotel. If Gao Erhu released him, the consequence would beunimaginable.


    After reaching our destination, I saw Gao Erhus truck parked in front of the hotel. I didnt have time tothink. I grabbedmy Yin and Yang Umbreanddashedtoward the top floor.


    However, when I passed the kitchenonthe first floor, a strong wind swirled up from the deep hole. At the same time, I heard footsteps on the emergency exit staircases.


    I halted, asking Li Mazi andBaldyto go after Gao Erhu. In the meantime,I stood in front of the hole in the kitchen, talking gently and respectfully,General Lu,I know youre there. Could you pleasee out here and talk to me?


    What do you want to talk about? An emotionless, deep voice arose.


    In the end, Lu Bu was stin unrivaledgeneral. He didnt need to hide.Without any fanfare, he appeared above the hole, gazing at meandclenching histeeth.


    General, youretoo strong! I had no choice but to trap you here


    I bowed to him deeply. Sir, Hou Chengwould liketoendthe grudge between youtwo from yourprevious lives. I hope youcanforgive him.


    Impossible! That son of a bitch betrayed me!UnlessI can kill him, I will neverbe able to let go of thegrudge in my heart! Lu Bu thundered,notevenpausingto consider.


    Ifell deep in thoughtandputon apainedlook. I slowlyforted and persuaded him,You know, sir, peoplefroter generations all think that General Lu only admires boldness. However,Iunderstand yourdesireof calming and giving peace to this country. Hou Cheng and the others followed you because of your ambition, didnt they?


    It was out of his control, and he was reluctantin his decisionto betray you.What would have happened to your loyal, innocent soldiers in Xu Province if there had been a deadly battle?Youwouldntwant to have seen Cao Cao ughter them,wouldyou? Theysolved the problemfor you. You shouldnt hate them. You should thank them! After talking, I discreetly took two steps backward. I was afraid Lu Bu wouldburst with angerin the next moment.


    However, Lu Bu didnt look enraged. He looked baffled, mumbling to himself,So,what they did wasntwrong?


    I knew I had made the right bet! Lu Bu was different from Xiang Yu, the Emperor of Western Chu. Xiang Yu only knew to kill, and he was stubbornly conservative, listening to no one. Lu Bu, on the other hand, had a tough exterior but a soft heart!

 Chapter 476: Lu Bu and Diao Chan

    Chapter 476: Lu Bu and Diao Chan


    Striking while the iron was still hot, I continued,General Lu, you exchanged the life of one man for the hundreds of lives. You saved the people living in Xu Province.Isntthisenough to make you great?


    Lu Bu looked touched.Yet, he had a forlorn expression on his face, smiling sadly. What did I gain from that? I couldnt protect the woman I loved the most, and peopleter insulted me as if Iwereeverybodys ve


    Li Mazi andBaldyescorted Gao Erhu fromthe upper floors,heading towardthe kitchen. Gao Erhu was still wearinghisraincoat, and when he saw Lu Bu, he immediately got on his knees, tears rolling from his face. Marquis of Wen, my Lord, Icouldntsave you. Im so sorry!


    Seeing this, my respect and admiration forthe Gao familyrose even higher.Even in the modern-day, they were still loyal and dedicated to Lu Bu.


    Lu Bu looked at Gao Erhu, his eyes showing a sense ofanxiety and pity.


    I knewthat I couldnt miss this opportunity. I bowed to Lu Bu once more before addressingGao Erhu, Erhu,two thousand years have passed, and history has moved on. The Han Dynasty no longer exists. Whatgrudges stillst after all this time? Do you really want to see General Lu kill all the descendants of thosedisloyalfamilies?


    Gao Erhu held his head low,notdaringto look at us.He knew that he was in the wrong. I didnt want to trouble himany further, so I askedhim toadviseLu Bunot torepeat the same mistakes.


    Then, we went to the Hou familys ancestral hall, telling Hou Cheng that Lu Bu had agreed to talk with him.


    Hou Cheng was baffled, and in the next moment, he started to sob.


    Its been more than two thousand years.Atst,myMasterhas agreedto forgive me! Thank you, thank you!


    Hou Cheng pointed at the ck iron chest on the ground. This chest holds the weapon I used when I was alive. The family has kept it for generations. Since youve helped me, Im going to give it to you!Its of no use to me now anyway.


    Then, he raised his hand and made a gesture. The iron chest opened, andshes of cold light appeared.


    Li Mazi pickedup the source of the shes. It was a silver-gleaming double-edged axe with a tiger descendingamountain carved onto the handle.


    I shivered. Hou Cheng was one of thetopeight subordinates under Lu Bu, andhis weaponwas trulyawe-inspiring!


    Anyway,myimpression of Hou Cheng wasnt very good, and as such,I didnt try to be politeor anything. I directly asked Li Mazi to bring the axe to the car. The iron chestwas most likelyvaluable, too. However, as it was the Hou familys antique, they should keep it.


    Leaving theancestral hall, I askedBaldyto hire agentle-looking,beautiful princess from a pub. Diao Chan used to be a singer, which was the sameupation asthe pub princesses in moderntimes.


    When I told her to dress up as Diao Chan to talk to Lu Bus ghost, she was stunned. She resolutelyrejected our offer. I dont want to lose my life just to earn some money!


    Lu Bu wont hurt you. Diao Chan was his biggest weakness! Moreover, he knows Diao Chanisdead.If you do this, it willhelp him rest in peace! Please!


    My words were honest, but she still rejectedmy request.


    Baldydirectly produced his pistol, cing it at the pub princesss temple, thundering,Are you messingwith me? Do you think Iwont dare tokill your entire family?


    She looked at me with fright in her eyes, asking for my help, butI acted as if I didnt see anythingandturnedmy head aside. Helpless, the girl had to ept our demands.


    I searched for Lu Bus information and stories from theInte, saving and sorting them into a file.


    After everything was prepared, I suddenly felt empty. As Li Mazihad receivedthatcoolweapon, his despicable face returned alongsidehisgreedy nature.


    He patted my cheekand asked, What are you up to?


    Ive just noticedthat the situation this timeseems toosimple. We havent encountered danger yet I said.


    If it werent forBaldy and me, Lu Bu would have finished you already! Isntthisdangerous enough? Li Mazi scoffed.


    I nodded. Li Mazi was right. Perhaps I wasjustoverthinking.


    Considering that Lu Bus name in history wasnt good at all, I was afraid that he would change his mind and attack us. Toprepare for the worst-case scenario, Idrewmany spirit talismans to give to the others. I even went to astore, asking them to make me a sword.


    I had learned the spell to invite Sword Immortal Lu DongbinfromChuyi. If LuBuwent back on his word, insuch a hopeless moment, I would try toaskthe Sword Immortal to help.


    Time flewquickly. The sky was getting dark


    The midnight hourarrived shortly. As the lime had all dried up, it was now hard.Baldyhad to invite a group of construction workers to help dig up the hole again.


    ThiswaswhenI was worried the most. I hoped that Lu Bu wouldnt suddenly turncrazyandbeginto ughter people. Fortunately, heremained hidden while the hole was dug up.Onceall the workers had left safely, he showed up with a gust of wind.


    Thank you, General Lu.


    I greeted him, then took a few steps backward. Isignaledthe pub princessdressed asDiao Chanto show up, motioning atthe others to hideina corner.


    The princess acted as I had told her.General, my Lord,weve been apart fortwo thousand years. In the end, Chanermeetsyou again.


    Sinceshe was a singer in the pub, her voice wasquiteenticing. Moreover, she was wearing beautiful costumesfromthe Han Dynasty.Atthis moment, shegenuinely lookedlike Diao Chan.


    My darling, Im truly ipetent. You have suffered because of me!


    After talking, Lu Bu got on his knees. I felt the ground shakea little bit ashemoved.


    Li Mazi andBaldydropped their jaws in surprise. We all knew that Lu Bu loved Diao Chan, but no one would expect that Lu Bu would get on his knees. In the Han Dynasty, women had no social position. There was an old saying that stated,brothers are like limbs; wives are like clothes.


    The singer was touched, and she began to cry, dashing toward him. She wanted to throw herself into Lu Bus embrace.However, she could only hug the void. Lu Buwanted to reciprocate her actions, but they couldnt touch each other. He was just a spirit. Strictly speaking, he wasnt even an intact soul.


    Lu Bukepthis arms spread open for a while. Then, he calmly told the woman, I know youre not my Chaner. Chanerisdead. You can go now. Thank you for fulfilling myst wish.


    My heart ached. It turned out Lu Bu had always wanted toapologizeto Diao Chan. Thatwaswhy he had kneltin front of her; it was to show hisremorse.


    When the women left, I went over andgaveGao Erhu the file I had prepared, asking him to read it out loud.


    Lu Bu, courtesy name Fengxian, is the First Peerless General of the Eastern Han! He eradicated Dong Zhuo. The imperial court ordained him as the Marquis of Wen thanks to hismeritorious serviceto the nation. With his halberd, he saved the people from damnation.With their actions,Lu Bu and Diao Chanhave embodiedthe story of the hero and the beauty that people stillpraise to this day


    Gao Erhus voice was full of emotion.


    As Lu Bu continued to listen, his bewilderedexpression turned into one full of emotion. While listening,he began to tear up.


    In the end, he resumed his heroic posture and appearance,ughing whole-heartedly. Gao Erhu, isthistrue?


    Marquis of Wen, my Lord, everything is true. Althoughsome peoplein, nobody is perfect. Its good that you dont have any guilt weighing on your conscience.


    Gao Erhu answered calmly. However, my heart sank when he said that. I just asked him to tell the other party what I had prepared. Gao Erhu had improvised!


    With Lu Bus nature, it was possible thathe would be enraged at this. Instinctively, I grabbed my Yin and Yang Umbre, ready to strike.


    Unexpectedly, Lu Bu wasnt mad. He looked heavenward,ughingto his hearts content.


    Ihave no guilt weighing on my conscience! Youre truly a son of my Bing Province!


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Lu Bu wasnt like what he was described as in the books. Hesincerelycared abouthis rtionshipsand humanity. However, we still hadnt solved hisissueswith Hou Cheng yet. My Lord, do you want to see Hou Cheng?


    Im his master. Why would I have to wait for him? Lu Bu snorted then waved his hands, returning to his hole.


    I knew he wanted Hou Cheng toe here to apologize to him. I motioned for Li Mazi to release Hou Chengs spirit.


    Li Mazi nodded. He went to the car to pick up the big axewhereHou Chengs spirit dwelled.


    Before I couldopen my mouth, Hou Cheng flew up from the axe as we entered the lobbyandlooked around.Eventually, his eyessettledon the deep hole. He hurriedly moved toward the holeand got on his knees. Then, he began to cry his lungs out,Sinner Hou Cheng greetsmy Lord!


    We shouldleave, I told Li Mazi andBaldy.


    No matter what, they were old acquaintances.


    Yet, at the moment I walked out of the kitchen, a dazzling golden light shed! Before I could get a hold of myself, I heard Hou Cheng shrieking in agony.


    I understood the situation wasnt goingas expected. I ran back inside andlooked for Hou Cheng, seeinga great halberdwith agolden halo piercinghisbody.The powerful weaponhad directly pinned Hou Chengtothe wall.


    I wasbewildered,mesmerized by the golden halo of the Sky Piercer.


    The Sky Piercerbegan to spin, andHou Cheng screamed louder and louder. In the end, he shiveredandbecame a few wisps of ck smoke, vanishing into the void.


    Then, the Sky Piercernded on the groundwith a tter.


    Werent they supposed to talkit out? Why did they fight? Li Mazi couldnt believe his eyes.


    No matter howwellHou Cheng could exin hispoint of view,he still betrayed Lu Bu. Lu Bu agreedto let us help him ascend, butthatdoesnt mean that he would forgive Hou Cheng.


    Li Mazi was puzzled. Then, he gawked, asking me, Did you predicteverything that happened?


    Yeah. I admitted with a cold smile.


    Lu Bumade an agreementwith me because I had a secret deal with him.


    Tofulfillthat deal, I would trick Hou Cheng toe and see Lu Bu. As long as Lu Bu could destroy Hou Cheng, he was willing to leave.


    LittleBrother Zhang, you


    Li Mazi held his fist as if he was about to hit me. However, he couldntbring himself to do it.Youve changed. Youre not the genuinely kind Zhang Jiulin I used to know, Li Mazi sighed.


    I dont want Ru Xues kid to be fatherless, and I dont want Yin Xinyue to wash her face with her tears. Do you think the two of us can deal with the God of War Lu Bu? I shouted at Li Mazi.


    He was baffled, looking at me. Then, we burst outughing.


    Lu Bu had left, leaving the Sky Piercer to us. With the double-edged axe Hou Cheng had gifted us, weobtainedtwo otherworldly items this time.


    Not long afterward, an ancient weapon collector came to our door. In the end, I sold Hou Chengs double-edged axeforthe price of three millionrenminbi.


    However, I had no ns to sell the Sky Piercer for the time being. Not because of its invincible nature, but becausewhenever Iadmiredthe halberd, I remembered the grudge that hadsted for two thousand years.


    Whether it was grace or grudge, as time passed by,all would be forgotten.


    However, the story of Lu Bu and Diao Chan would live forever!

 Chapter 477: Lets go to Europe!

    Chapter 477: Let''s go to Europe!


    After returning from Baotou, Li Mazi quit drinking and closed his little shop. He wholeheartedly took care of his pregnant wife,Ru Xue, to the extent that he stoppedspending time on business cases with me.


    Since wegot married, I havent spent much time with Ru Xue. This time, I will make up for it! Thats what he told me.


    We rarely had free time, soYin Xinyue also tookleavefrom herpany to be with me.She pouted, pestering me to travel with her.


    Where do you want to go? I asked her.


    Europe! I want to go see the medieval castles and the magnificent seas of flowers!


    Considering that Li Mazi and his wife currently didnt want to leave theifortablehome, I didnt noninvitingthem to go with us.


    Yet,in the early morningofthe day we weregoing to depart,Li Mazi unexpectedlyappeared in front of my antique shopwithtravel bagson his shoulders. He didnt forget tobringRu Xue,either.


    He gaveme a broad smilewith hisdespicable face. LittleBrother Zhang, thinking about sneaking out and traveling alone? You have to bring us with you.Furthermore, you have to cover all the expenses!


    Istood thereawkwardly, feeling speechless.


    Ru Xue, can you travel givenyour bodys condition? I was worried, though.


    Its no problem. Ive only been pregnant fortwo months!


    Ru Xue rubbed her belly, giving me an OK gesture. With thisassurance,I noddedand didnt continue tment or question their decision.


    Since Yin Xinyueworkedfor a multinational filmpany, she was able to use her connections to apply for a visa. She effortlesslypleted all theproceduresfor us.


    Li Maziwas excited.Long live Yin Xinyue!


    I feltmy heart grow warm at this disy.


    In the next half month, we first visited the four Nordic countries and Andersens homnd,Denmark. Next, weheadedto France to see the world ofvender in Provence,touring the various countries in our path along the way.


    These countries werent toorge,as they were about the size of a provinceinChina.Despite this, themonuments andndmarkson our journey weresomesmerizing that it wasimpossible to urately describe them with words. It was like visiting a brand-new fairnd.


    It was the first time I traveled abroad. My first and deepest impression was that the peopleresidingin these developed countries wouldlive a fulfilling and enjoyable life!


    Yin Xinyue and Ru Xuecontinuously shopped throughout the trip.Moreover, they just bought things and didnt want to carry the bags. At first, Li Mazi and I could endure, butafter a couple of days of non-stop shopping, we both looked thinner. We couldnt put up with it anymore, suggestingthat we head home.


    However, Ru Xuerepeatedlyinsisted that we had to visit the famous Mn in Italy.Helpless, Li Mazi and I had to continue to be theirbellhop.


    We had an enjoyableshopping tour around Mn during the day. Around twilight, we visited the Mn Conservatory and found a nearby hotel to stay in.


    After checking in, I washed my face and sank into the bed, falling asleep. Yin Xinyue was angryandkickedme, but she couldnt wake me up.


    However, she was also exhaustedanddriftedtosleep easily. We both hadpleasantdreams.


    While we were sleeping, I heard someone knocking on my door. Ifelt as ifsomeone was calling my name.


    I cursed under my breath, rolling aside and ignoring it. But the person outside was persistent, banging louder on my door. Eventually, Yin Xinyue was awakened. She sat up, shaking me,Brother Zhang, it seems Li Mazis calling for you.


    Ishookmy head to pull myself together. I put onmyclothes, opened the door, and thundered at him,Dude, its midnight, and youre still not asleep. Why did you knock on my door?


    Li Mazis voice choked withsobs. LittleBrother Zhang, hurry and save Ru Xue!If something bad happens to her, Iwont be able tolive anymore!


    Immediately, I felt like I had just fallen into an ice chamber, being chilled fromheadto toe.


    I then noticed that Li Mazihadsweat on his entire face,with the skin on his neck being red. It seemed he had just been suffocated.


    My eyes moved a little downwardand saw that he hada bruise around his throat!


    I was stunned. I turned and went to the bathroom, directly pouring a bucket of cold water on my head to pull myself together. I didnt even dry my hairbeforedashing outandasking him,Did you see anything?


    Li Mazi had experienced perilous and even deadly moments. There shouldnt be many things that could make himpanic.


    In addition, when I saw the bruise on his neck, I could feel a wisp of darkenergymovingaround that spot. He had bumped into something foul!


    I was sleeping whenI suddenly couldnt breathe.I woke upandopened my eyesto seeRu Xuestraddling me, using a rope to strangle me, said Li Mazi.


    I thought that she wanted to y with me.Yet, hergripgot stronger and stronger, and her face grew pale and ferocious. She apparently wanted to strangle me to death!Moreover, I felther strength suddenly increase to the point whereI couldnt resist her. I thought I would die like that, but then,right as I was about to pass out, Ru Xue stoppedandfainted on the bed. Hurry, go check her!


    Li Maziexined everything in one breath, pulling me toward his room. Yin Xinyue knew the situation wasnt right, so she put on more clothes and followed us.


    When we entered Li Mazis room, I saw Ru Xue on the bed, her face as pale as a sheet of white paper.I hurried to sit on the edge of the bed, about to lift her. However, as soon as I touched her, I felt a strong wave of coldness.


    Ru Xues body is so cold!


    I frowned, trying to move her arm, but herlimbswere stiff already. As such,IhadYin Xinyue soak a towel in warm water and rub her body.


    LittleBrother Zhang, you must save her! Im begging you. Please!


    Li Maziwas so anxious that he wassweatingheavily.Be that as it may, hedidnt know how to help. He could only implore me.


    This man had always valued affection andhis significant other. When Chu Chu passed away, he had almost copsed. It was hard for him to find happiness again with Ru Xue. No matter what, I had to ensure Ru Xuessafety!


    Typically, in this situation, the best thing to do was tohave her drinkcharm water to expel the Yin energy in her body.


    However, this situation was made very difficult by the fact that she was pregnant. Thetwo-month-oldfetusdidnthaveaplete soul yet. If we fed her charm water,it was probable that we would erase thechildssoul too.


    What''s happening?


    Iwas scratching my head whenYin Xinyue suddenly shrieked. Li Mazi and I reactedquickly, jumping toward her. We saw that the areas on Ru Xues bodywherethe warm towel touchedhad begun to blister.


    The blisters swelled up and started to oozelight-yellow pus. Li Mazi cracked when he saw that, slumping to the floor andbeginningto scream.


    Li Mazi,pull yourself together! We can still save Ru Xue! You have to believe me!


    I pulled him up from the ground, shoutinginhis face,Go get me some milk. The purer, the better!


    Li Mazi seemedto nothear my words, his dull eyesgazingat Ru Xue. I resolutely ppedhim. If you want to save Ru Xue, do what I tell you! Hurry up!


    Right! Save Ru Xue! We can still save her! Li Mazi got a hold of himself, running away.


    After he left, I picked up a paper cup, bringing it to Ru Xue while asking Yin Xinyue to continue to rub her body. Every time the pus oozed, I caught the liquid with my cup.


    Soon, Yin Xinyue had rubbedthe entirety ofRu Xues body. However, the womans face had turned even paler.


    Yin Xinyue wasterrified, crying,Brother Zhang, can we save Ru Xue or not?


    I dont know.


    I sighed, answering her witha pained expression.


    I found a magnifying ss and observed the pus.


    Based on Li Mazis exnation, between thepoint whereRu Xuetriedto strangle himtothe moment weentered the room,only a short period of time had passed. There werent many tricks that could make someone ooze pus insuch a small amount of time. To my knowledge, only the magicinsectin the Miaos territory could create this evil effect!


    Legends said thatan insect masterjust needed someones hair orsalivatoactivatehisinsect. In aminorcase, the victim would be sick for a few months. However, in aseverecase, the victim could havetheirbody rot while still alive! Countless tiny worms would nibbletheirbody and breaktheirskin toe out. A living man would be tortured to death.


    If Ru Xue had an insectin her body, I didnt havethe powerto overturn this situation!Fortunately, I had observed the pus carefully and found no worms. We could cross off the magicinsectas a possibility for now.

 Chapter 478: High Heels in the Corridor

    Chapter 478: High Heels in the Corridor


    Li Mazi returned shortlywith a big wooden bucket full of fresh milk. Putting the bucket on the floor, he panted, gasping for breath.


    We were just on vacation,so we didnt bring any items to deal with this particr case. It was impossible to find blood from a ck dog orapeach stake inthisforeign country.Furthermore, even if we did findthese materials, they could end upinjuring Ru Xues baby. Thatwaswhy I came up with the idea of using fresh milk.


    It wasa well-known factthat people could see ghosts after smearing ox tears on their eyelids. However, not many people knew that fresh milk could expelevil spirits.Milk had a natural Yang energy that could shoo the evil away.In addition, cowsweresome sort of spirit-rted animal. That waswhy cow milk wasthe mostsuitable choicewhenexorcising a pregnant woman. Moreover, therewere no side effects from this method.


    Just to be sure, I put some milk into the cup of pus I had collectedand examinedit. The opaque pus sizzledfor a moment beforethe liquid became transparent at a speed the naked eye could observe. In the end, the mixture of milk and pus had bean odorless andcolorless liquid!


    Li Mazi was excited, and hehurriedly hadRu Xuedrinkthe cow milk. Yin Xinyue also dipped the towel into the milk and rubbed Ru Xues body again. We heardthe same sizzling noise that the cup of pus and milk made. Ru Xues faceslowly regained color. At the same time, the blisters on her body disappeared, turning into a dark,foul-smellingsubstance.


    When the Yin energy in her body was almospletelyabsorbed, I asked Yin Xinyue to mix the rest of the milk with water and bathe Ru Xue. It was thest stepincleansinganyremaining foul presencesfrom her. While Ru Xue was taking a milk bath, Li Mazi eased his worries, knowingthat shewas safenow.


    I gently patted his shoulder. Do you remember anything that happenedbefore this urred?


    Since that thing usedRu Xues body to strangle Li Mazi, they must have angered it some way or the other.


    In addition,whenit left Ru Xues body,he must have seen something, like a shadow or a swirl of air. With Li Mazis experience, he wouldnt ignoresuch details. I knew he wastooworried about Ru Xue previously to think about these things.


    Li Mazi thought for quite a long time. In the end, he shook his head. No, Ididntsee anything.


    My nerves tensed up again. Li Mazi wouldnt deceive me. It meant that this thing was anything butsimple.


    And, why did it decide to spare Li Mazis life at the critical moment?


    Looking at the horrible bruise on his neck, I knew thatitwanted to kill him. If itabruptlylet him go, something must have happened.


    With this thought, I started to check the room. However, this room was built and arranged exquisitely. There was nothing that vited the rules ofgeomancy.


    I regretted that I didnt bringmpass with me. Otherwise, I could use thepass to locate the spirit.Anyway,I found nothingstrange inthe room, which left me at a loss ofwhat to do.


    After Yin Xinyue helped Ru Xue bathe herself, thetter woke up. She still looked pale.


    Li Mazi bit his lip, asking shyly,LittleBrother Zhang, is there anymethodto help Ru Xue feel better?


    She oozed a lot of pus, so shes dehydrated now. Keep giving her water, anddont worry, Iforted him.


    Li Mazi finally exhaled in relief. His face changedas he spokethrough gritted teeth,This time, I have todestroythat thing and send it tohell. If I cant do that, I dontdeserve to live anymore!


    In contrast, my idea was to go home immediately as everybody wassafenow. I didnt want to provoke anyone or anything in a foreign country. However, Li Mazi wastoopersistent, andI knew I couldnt persuade him. Now, I needed to assess this spirit.


    Did Li Mazi identallyprovokethat foul thing? Or does the problem lie within this hotel?


    If it were the former, we would be in a passive situation.


    Since Ru Xues condition wasnt good and we were afraid that the foul thing woulde to attack again, we stayed up the whole night. After dawn, I asked the two women to take a rest.


    I went downstairs with Li Mazi, trying to find somethingswe could use to defend ourselves. Unexpectedly, themonly-found items that we could find at home were really difficult to get here. We searched the entire morning, and all we got was a chain of copper coins from China in an antique shop.


    Although the coins had a green patina on them, they felt warm in our hands. It meant they had a lot of Yang energy. There should be no problemin usingthemforself-defense, but they werent strong enough to destroy that evil thing.


    Li Mazi suggestedhavingspaghetti for lunch. I didnt have any special requirements for food, so I let him order.Li Mazi thought that the food was so delicious thathe asked the waiter to pack two moredishes for takeoutto give toYin Xinyue and Ru Xue.


    As the waiter spoke some simple Chinese, Li Mazi chatted a little with him. How do you make these noodles?


    Durum wheat. The waiter answered with a smile.


    I suddenly got anidea.We could use wheat to deal with theevil spirit!


    nt seedshad spiritual properties, and tougher grains could produce better effects. That waswhy I always chewedsoybeanswhen encountering foul things.


    I couldntgo looking forsoybeans right now, but I could use the durum wheat.Durum wheatwasthe hardesttype of wheat.Its effect wouldnt beworsethan thesoybeans if used properly.


    I was excitedandpulledLi Mazi to a store to buy a bag of durum wheat. Afterward, we returned to our hotel.


    When we got back to the room, the two women had gotten up. I divided the chain of coins into four parts, as each of us should keep several coins to use incase of an emergency.


    Once she had eaten, Ru Xuebegan to look healthier. Yin Xinyue had told her the situationst night.Yet, just like Li Mazi, she noticed nothing out of theordinary.


    The only thing Ru Xueremembered washow herhead felt very heavywhenshe lost consciousness. When she told me that, her face looked forlorn.


    Its okay.Lets see if that thingesback again tonight. I dont believe that itspowerfulenough toleaveno trace behind! My voice grew colder.


    I asked the girls to getsomerest. Then, Li Maziand Isprinkled the durum wheat on the ground in front of the door, window sills, and around the beds in both rooms.


    While working, I saw Li Mazi inadvertently scratching the bruise on his neck. Li Mazi, is your neck okay?


    Its okay, just a little itchy


    Li Mazi waved his hand as if it werent an importantmatter, soI eased myworriesa little bit. Then, I used some pieces of white paper to draw some spirit talismans. However, the effectswouldntbe as strong as when I used the yellow paper. Anyway, in an urgent situation, I could add a few drops of blood to boost its power.


    Afterthe incidentst night,I decided to toughen myself up. I washed my face andwent to rest. Around twilight, we all went out to find a restaurant to have dinner. I noticed that Li Mazi kept scratching his neck!


    Ru Xuealso noticed this.Li Mazi, what happened to your neck?


    It just feels a little itchy, He tried to smile, showing his big, yellow teeth.


    We all suggested that he should go to the hospital to check that bruise.


    No, Im okay. You used milk to wash my neck and expel the Yin energy already. Dont worry.


    We didnt urge him further.


    When we returned to the hotel, the sky waspletely dark. Except for our rooms, the hotel seemed strangely quiet. Every time we spoke, we would hear our voice echoing.


    Ru Xues courage seemed tohave shrunkafter the incidentst night. She stayed in Li Mazisembrace, shivering.


    I closed the curtains and switched off the light. Instantly, the surroundings were swallowed by darkness.


    Will it work? What if that thingmakesno noise when ites here? Li Mazi scratched his neck.


    Dont worry. It has to cross the line of durum wheat if it wants to approach us. As long as itapproaches us, the wheat grains will create some noise!


    I tried to sound calm and confident.In reality, I was a little worried.


    After this point, no one talked anymore, with only the clocksticking fillingthe room. Li Mazi and I hadnt slept sincest night. Soon, weboth grew exhausted, especially Li Mazi. He kept dozing off so often that hewas tempted touse two matches to support his eyelids.


    You two should rest for a while. If somethinges, Ill wake you up, Yin Xinyuesaid, feeling worried for us.


    I yawned, looking at Li Mazi. I can put up with it for a while. You should sleep first.


    Okay


    Li Mazi was really tired. He mumbled something and got on his bed. Suddenly, we heard thesound ofhigh heelsfromthe corridor.


    The noise onlysted foraround two seconds, but we heard a series of footsteps as if someone was running on high heels.In the next second,everything went silent.

 Chapter 479: Deadly Music

    Chapter 479: Deadly Music


    Iquicklypulled myself together, asking the others to be more vignt. Li Mazi seemed to havetransformed intoanother personatthis moment. Thefatigueon his face vanished, reced by deep hatred!


    However, while we were holding our breath and listening carefully, we heard a mournful melody yed by a violin.


    The musicwas so clear that itseemed like someone was ying right outsidethedoor.


    Although Ididnt know much about this type of music, I could hear the perfect transitions of the glides. This piece of music could make people cry whenthe climax arrived.


    Inadvertently, Ibecame mesmerized bythe music. A gold-haired,blue-eyed woman withan ovalface appeared in my head. Shewore a satin dress with medieval characteristicsand looked likea European noblewoman.Although she didnt do anything, she exuded strong enticing power, giving me a strongurge tomove closerto her.


    At this moment, the womansexpression wasextremely sad andmournful. Her deep blue eyeswere filled with sorrow, and her cheeks looked as if they were covered with frost.Her brows mmed together. Sheappearedto be suffering from somethingtrulyheart-breaking.


    Listening to the sad melody from the violin, I seemed to understand the womans grief.From deep within my soul, I felt an urge togoand pull her into my embrace to love andfort her. At the same time, my legswere refusing to listen to me, and wereabout to walk to the door.


    Fortunately, my brainran speedily, andI pulled myself together.


    That things trying to bewitch us!


    I looked aroundto find thatLi Mazi and the other two women were infatuated with the music, stiffly walking toward the door! My heart sank, andI bit the tip of my tongue. The taste of blood helped mepletely regain my sanity from the music.


    I hurried to walk forward as Li Maziwas nearingthe door.


    How could I let him go out?Immediately, Igave him a hard p,wakinghimup.


    Ouch!Whats wrong with you? asked Li Mazi.


    We were bewitched! You should keep some durum wheat in your mouth.If you feel in danger, chew but dont swallow!


    I then took out two coins, pressing them on Ru Xues and Yin Xinyues bes. They awakened, slumping on the ground. Ru Xuewasso scared that she couldnt even utter a word. She kept rubbing her chest to calm down.


    Yin Xinyue didnt feel good either, her voice shivering,Brother Zhang, what should we do now?


    If that thing enticed us to make us walk out of this room, it means the durum wheat works. As long as were not going out, well be all right


    I gave the girls some wheat grains, asking them to keep the grains in their mouths. Li Mazi,e to the window.


    LittleBrother Zhang, can we deal with it? asked Li Mazi.


    Hard to say, I shook my head.


    I gently pushed thewindowopen to see. If the weatherwasgood, I would climbdownwith Li Mazi. We would then use the emergency staircase to go to the corridor and see the real face of that thing.


    Unexpectedly, there was a thin fog outside, and even the street lights had be immensely hazy. If the two of usclimbed down, we would be attacked by the ghost. In this case, itwasbetter to go out directly through the door and have a nice fight with that spirit!


    Li Mazi looked scared, but hequicklygot a hold of himself. He put more durum wheat into his pocket and gave his coins to Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue, asking them to stay in the room. No matter what happened, they shouldnt go out.


    After preparing everything, he took a deep breath. I dont care what kind ofcreatureit is. Tonight,its either me or that thing!


    I gave Li Mazi a thumbs-up then took the lead, pushing the door open. Li Mazi followed close behind me. After my first step out of the room, I felt a strong resentful energy lingering around the door.


    My heart sank. I immediately withdrew my foot, turning and sending Li Mazi a nce.


    Li Mazi was a little surprised. However, he took out a handful of durum wheat grains, ready to throw out.


    When we stopped moving, I seemed to feel the resentful energy subsiding. That female ghost had guessed that we wanted to go out, so it nned to lurk outside andkillus. I sneered, taking off my jacket and throwing it out of the room.


    At that gleam of time, a red, ring-shaped object shed, directlysurroundingthecor of my clothesand shrinking.


    I sweated immediately at the scene. If I hadnt sensed the dangerjust now,Iwould have beenstrangled!


    The ring-shaped object found that it was tricked. It resumed its original size andtried to escape. However, Li Mazi was ready; he hurledforward all the grains in his hand.


    The ring-shaped object couldnt dodge. When it got hit, a wisp of ck smoke appeared. It shook a few times and turned into a human shadow.I squinted and foundthat it wasthe European womanthat had appearedin my head a moment ago!


    Her face was covered with maggots, and her two bulging eyes were hostilely gazing at me and Li Mazi. My scalp felt numb under her gaze. Instinctively, I stooped my head.Next, I realized that theghost didnt have a tummy!


    She looked like a chicken that was disemboweled. From under her breasts to above her hip,therewas a horrible hole that had only a strip of skin on each side to connect her upper and lower body parts. Her appearance was creepily gruesome! Moreover, as soon as shemanifestedinheroriginal form, she reeked of a nauseous stench, which was even more unpleasant thanthe smell ofrotten animals.


    Li Mazi pinched hisnosewith one hand whileusing theothertoscratchhis neck. After one day, the bruise on his neck hadnthealed.In fact,it looked evenworsenow.


    I was worried as I guessed that the Yin energy in his body hadnt beepletely expelled.


    Anyway, before I couldpullmyself together, the female ghost screamedandflewtoward me.She kept changing her shape in midair. When she approached my neck, she had bearing-shaped object again.


    At this criticalmoment, all of my potential was stimted. My upper bodyinstinctivelyleaned backward.Then, I saw a red light brush past the tip of my nose!


    The hairs of my bangs were cut off, and atrickleof blood fell down along with my hairs.Ihadnarrowly escapeddeath.


    I hurried to turn around and looked at the red ring-shaped object, throwing a handful of durum wheat toward it.


    The female ghostsawthat I was well-prepared. She turned and flew toward Li Mazi. I hurried to sprinkle more wheat grains, but the ghost dodged them easily.


    Li Mazi thought that the ghostwould deal with me first,so he was also focused on me. When the ghostsuddenlyturned around to attack him, hewas caught by surprise.He could only lookat the red lightgettingbigger and bigger in his eyes, unsure as towhat to do.


    Theghostwastoo strong. If he got hit, hisheadwould be cutoff.


    I was so worried, butthere was nothing I could doat thismoment.


    Suddenly,agolden light shed behind Li Mazi, and something hit thering-shapedobject. The ring-shaped object was forced to turn back toits humanform.


    This time,the ghostlooked even more horrifying. Herrighteyeballwasdangling from hereyesocket, and her entire right cheekhad sunkdeep into her skull, just as if a big rockhadhit her there.


    Still confused, she liftedher head, trying to identify what had justhurther.


    Li Mazi and I would never letsuch achance slip away. We exchanged looks and took out a handful of wheat grains, throwing them at her. This time, our joined attack worked much better.Shortly after, the female ghost exuded ck smoke and sizzled.


    Her bodytrembled hard, then dashedtoward the other end of the corridor. Li Mazi gritted his teethandfollowedher. However, I grabbed him and pulled him back to the room.


    Why did you let the ghost go?Thiswas the first thing Li Mazi asked me when we returned to the hotel room.


    Do you think that its so easy to deal with that ghost?


    Then, I bent my upper body to pick up thecoins at the door. I gavethem to him andaskedhim to take a look at them.


    Holycow, howcould thisbe?! Looking at the ckened coins, Li Maziwas stunned.

 Chapter 480: Thirty Minutes of Horror

    Chapter 480: Thirty Minutes of Horror


    Those coins had just saved Li Mazislife!


    From inside the room, Ru Xue and Yin Xinyuecould see thatwe were in danger. As such,they threw the coinstowards the ghostto help us. Since the coins had passed through the hands of thousands of people,strongYang energy emanated from them.Whenthe coinssensed the ghosts Yin energy, they turned intoagolden light, attacking thespirit.


    However, they were also destroyedin the process. The bronze color of the coins had turned ck, with some coinsevencracking. That female ghosthad formidable strength!


    Those coinswereourst resort, andthey only served to cause some pain to the ghost. If we chased after her, it wouldnt be different from seeking death. Fortunately, the ghost was scared of thecoins. If she knew that we had used all the coins, wewouldntsurvive long enough to imagine the consequences!


    Damn, we almost died! Li Mazi sat down, cursing.


    Yet, shortly after, I heard himbegin to snore. Hehad fallen asleep on the floor.


    Brother Zhang, help mecarry himto the bed! Hes too tired. Ru Xue felt sorry for him.


    I nodded and helped her bring Li Mazi to the bed. Afterhe was settled down, I looked at the bruise on his neck. Hewasscratchingit the whole day, andIfelt something was off,so I wanted to check it.


    However, he was exhausted, so I left him be. I sighed,nningto do it tomorrow.


    Iter regretteddoing this as italmost caused Li Mazis death in a foreignnd!


    Since Li Mazi was sleeping in my room, I took Yin Xinyue to the other room to sleep.No matter what, the female ghost was wounded, soshe wouldnt be able toe toour room tonight. I washed my face and fell asleep shortly after. However, not long afterward, I felt someone walking in front of me.


    Ihad yet to fall into a deep sleepasI had justid down on the bed. I was still conscious, soI instantly knew that some ghosthad visited my room.


    Yin Xinyue wasasleep, hugging me. She was snoring softly like a purring kitten.


    I didnt lift the nket immediatelysinceI was afraid of awakening her. My eyes slowly opened, andI saw a big face right in front of me. The face couldnt have been morethan five centimeters away from mine. The two nk eyes bulged as if they would burst out in the next second and hit my face.


    I felt my heart leap, andIalmost screamed.


    However, this pair of eyes looked familiar! I opened my eyesentirely to see thatit was Li Mazis face.


    I exhaledandsat up, barking, Dude, whyarent you asleep? Its midnight. Whydid youe into my room?Do you want to scare mewithyour ghostly face?


    I took out a cigarette and was about to light it. Unexpectedly, Li Mazi grabbed my arm, his voice low. Youd better not smoke at night.


    When Li Mazi spoke, his voice didnt sound like his own. Moreover, the moment he touched me, his skin felt strangely cold.


    I had a bad premonition.Is Li Mazibeing controlledby that thing?


    Mymindalmostwent nkwhena quick nce brought the door to the room into my eyesight.


    The doorwas still closed! When we got into the room, we had locked the door carefully, soLi Mazicouldnt have entered the room!


    The man in front of me isnt Li Mazi!


    It was possible that he wasa ghost. Ghosts were afraid of fire. Thatmight bewhy he didnt want me to light up my cigarette.


    I didnt know why it wanted to impersonate Li Mazi andentermy room, but I wassureitwas bad news for us!


    Instinctively, I checked my clothes. Luckily, I still had some wheat in my pocket.However,Li Mazi sneered coldly. No need to waste your strength. Do you think Im afraid of wheat grains?


    Then, he bent down and picked up a handful of durum wheat grains, throwing them in theair.


    Iremembered thatbefore nightarrived,I poured durum wheat grains on the important spotsinthis room.


    Looking at Li Mazismiling evilly, Ifeltfear rising from the bottom of my heart. However, Ikept my voice calm,Who are you?


    If he were a human, how could heenter my room without making any noise?


    Moreover, his body wasas cold as ice,and hismovements werestiff. He didnt look like a living person, but he wasnt afraid of wheat, either.


    Isheso strong thathe can ignore the Yang power of the wheat?


    Although I wasterrified, I wore a calm faceas I gazedat him, trying tosee if I could gather anything from his face. Li Mazi stopped smiling,andhis eyes met mine.Right as I was about to look away, he got on his knees, crying,LittleBrother Zhang, h-help me! Please, save me!


    It was Li Mazis voice when he said that.


    My fear had abandoned me at this moment, and I remembered the ring-shaped bruise on Li Mazis neck. Is there somethingwrong withyour neck?


    He didnt answer. Or, he couldnt make a sound.


    His mouth opened and closed as he was trying to say something. I read his lipsand guessed that he wasrepeatedlysaying, Help me!


    Igrew moreworried when he did that. I grabbed his arm, screaming, Brother, what happened to you? You shouldnt scare me like this!


    Yet,he couldnt make a single sound,and his body began to melt. In the end, he turned into a puddle of blood.


    Id seenplenty ofhorrible scenes throughout my life. However, this was the first time I saw a man dielike this. I couldntstop myself as I beganscreaming.


    Afterward, I jolted up from my bed, my back damp and cold. My sweat had soaked the bed sheet underneath me. Yin Xinyue rubbed my face, her voice worried. Brother Zhang, did you have a nightmare?


    When did you wake up? I wassuspicious.


    She smiled. I havent slept yet! Ru Xue and I slept for the whole day. How could I sleep anylonger? Ive been ying with my phone.


    What? Instinctively, I turned to see the ce where Li Mazi had turned into a puddle of blood. There was onlytheline of durum wheat I had poured on the floor.There was no blood.


    The pack of cigarettes was where I had put it before going to sleep. I checked the time. It had been only half an hour since weentered the room.


    I now realized that I just had a nightmareandsigheddeeply. Yin Xinyue wiped my sweaty forehead. What did you see in your dream?


    I couldntstop myself from thinking about it, and Ididnt bother totell her about the dream.I hurried to put onmyclothes, going to Ru Xues room.


    I knocked on the door.Soon, the door opened, andRu Xue showed upinher nightgown, fuming,Whyarentyou sleeping? Its midnight. Are you trying to scare me?


    Dont talk nonsense. Wheres Li Mazi?


    I sawthat their bed was empty. My intuition told me that somethingterriblewas happening. My voice slowly turned hoarse.


    Squattingonthe toilet. What happened? Ru Xue stopped joking when she saw my tense face.


    She reached her hand to knock on thebathroomdoor. Mazi, are you done yet?


    Before she finished talking, the door slid openon its own. I craned my neck to seeinside but was left with ahorriblefeeling.


    Therewasno oneonthe toilet!


    Its midnight. Where would he go? Why did youe to see him all of a sudden? Did you find something? Ru Xuetook a few seconds to pull herself together. She looked panickedas she also felt thatsomething was wrong.


    I balled myhandsinto fists, asking Ru Xue,What timewasit when youst saw him?


    A few minutes before yougot here!


    Ru Xue almost cried when she said that. After listening to her, I rushed downstairs tosearch for Li Mazi. I saw Yin Xinyueinthe corridor. Xinyue,goand stay with Ru Xue.Youmuststayawakeuntil the morning. No matter what, dont open the door. Just wait until the morning!


    I didnt have time to answer their questions, hurrying down to the lobby. I then went to thesecurity office, asking the staff to show me the surveince cameras. The enthusiastic Italian staff memberhelped mewatch the scene froma few minutes ago. I saw Li Mazileaveand walk on the meandering, narrow path behind the hotel.


    Before I left, the staff member grabbed my arm, using his broken Chinese to advise me, Friend, you shouldnt go there at night. People say that the Devil lives there!


    Thank you!


    I was surprised, thanking himbeforedashing toward the path Li Mazi hadtaken.


    Every ethnicity hadsomethingthey worshipped orwerescared of.People from the Eastworshippedthe Jade Emperor and feared ghosts.People from theWestworshipped God and were afraid of Satan.It sounded superstitious, but who couldsay for certainthat those supernatural beings didnt exist?


    That Italian staff member was a local. If he said that ce washaunted, ithad tobe true. I was even more anxious now.

 Chapter 481: Lu Dongbin Versus the European Ghost

    Chapter 481: Lu Dongbin Versus the European Ghost


    When I enteredthe meandering path,my surroundings instantly turned dark.However, I saw a dark shadow moving a little farther ahead of me. I knew it was Li Mazi, so I picked up my pace.


    At maximum speed, Iwas able toshorten the distance between us to around twenty meters. However, thesest twenty meters seemed infinite.I couldnt catch up with Li Mazi, no matter how hard I tried.


    I shouted and yelled his name, but he didnt hear me. He kept walkingwhile holding hishead low.


    The road ahead wasnt long.Therewas anoldcastlethat looked like achurchnot far from him.I could seeno cross, but the air around the structureseemed to movelike arapid stream of water.


    I knew it was because of the thick Yin energy in the ancient castle. I started to feel scared of the ce. However, I clenched myteeth and continued to walk forward.


    After two steps, I found that something was wrongasLi Mazi had alsostopped walking. In the short moment I had stopped, he could have reached the doorif he had kept his pace. It seemed he was waitingfor me.


    To verify this thought, I deliberately walkedthenhalted.Sure enough,as soon as I stopped walking, Li Mazialsostopped.When Isteppedforward, he also stepped forward.Hewanted to make me enter that ce!


    That thing doesntwant to kill Li Mazi. It just wantsto bring meto that ce...


    Then, I realized that I was so worriedthatI had rushed out of the hotel to chase afterLi Maziwithout bringing anything with me.


    If Iwentinside barehanded, I would be killedin aninstant. However, standing here and watching Li Mazidiewasnt my style, either. I didnt know what to do.


    While I was hesitating, Li Maziquickened his pace.In just a blink of an eye, he disappeared into the gate of the dark castle.


    Damn! Why do youhaveto be like this?! I was so madand punchedthe marble wall.Still, I had to follow him.


    When I approachedthe gate,alight shed on my side. Subconsciously, I turned my head tolook. There wasaniron fence on each side, which looked like rows of halberdsthat sparkledunder the moonlight.


    When I sawthosehalberds,I got an idea. I climbed up the fenceand triedmy best to break one of themin half. Luckily for me, thefencewas hollow. Otherwise, I wouldnot have beenable to break it with my bare hands.


    With half thehalberdin my hand, I felt more secure. I pushedthe door andstrodein. The space inside the castle wassodark that I couldnt even see my fingers. Thecold wind blewand howled.


    I was restlessly worriedand turnedon the shlightonmy mobile phone.


    When the light was on, I saw the interior of the ancient castle. It was a church with rows of seats. There was an aisle around one meter in the center, which led to a lectern. Iguessed it was wherethe priest or pastor read the Bible and conducted their sermons.


    All of the churches would have a great cross to show their respect to Jesus Christ the Savior. However, this church didnt haveone. It was strange, indeed.


    I scanned around and found Li Mazi. He was standing at the lectern, holding a scarlet rope in his hands. He tiptoedand was preparedto hang himself.


    I paled in frightanddashedtoward him, nning tokickthe lectern aside.I really wanted to see how the ghost wouldmake Li Mazi hang himselfthen!


    However, afterI kicked it, I squatted in pain. I held my footand couldntget up.


    Shoot! Thatfreakinglecternsmade of stone!My eyes brimmed with tears.


    Li Mazis face was stiff, and hedidnt bat an eyeatme. He gently and leisurelycedhis head through the loop. His movementswereso elegant that he looked almost like a European gentleman.


    I gritted my teethand tried to get up despite the pain in myfoot. I then walked to Li Maziand huggedhis thighsin an attemptto pull him down.Unexpectedly, he was as firm as a rock. I used all of my strength but couldnt move himat all.


    Iwasafraidthat he wasnt simply bewitched. Li Mazi was possessed. Otherwise, he wouldnt be so heavy.


    Luckily, I found some durum wheat inmypocket. I hurried to sprinklethe wheaton Li Mazi.


    The momenthe washitby thegrains, Li Mazi shook a little bit. Then, he slumpedonthe lectern as though he was made of squishy noodles. I was quick enough to catch him.


    As he couldnt wake up, I guessed his Yang energy wasdepleted. I ced him on the ground.


    I then picked up thehalberdand stabbed behind me.


    I didnt need to turn around to know that the female ghostwas standingbehind me. Her resentful energy was really strong.


    The ghost seemed to be scared as I had hurt her a few times. She shed and dodged my attack. However, right after that, shenoticed thatmy halberd was just a piece of scrap metal. She gritted her teethand saidsomething I didnt understand.


    After speaking, the female ghost lunged toward me. Her speed wasnt as fast asthe time of our encounterat the hotel. I wasnt scaredandretreateda few steps.Right whenshe was about to reach me, I closed my eyes and read a spell.


    I was trying to invitetheImmortal Sword,Lu Dongbin!


    Ever since I had learned this spell from Chuyi, I hadnt had a chance to use it. I wondered if itwould work.


    The halberd in my hand was like a prop made of scrap metal, but it could be a sharp weapon in Lu Dongbins hand. Although it was a little inconvenientto use, itwouldntbe a problem for him to deal with that half-damaged ghost.


    My n soundedsolid. However, after I finished reading the spell, I didnt feel anything, and the ghost was right in front of me. I wasntsostupid to engage in a fight with her now. I ran away immediately.Whilerunning, I kept reading the spell.


    Eventually, I was forced into a corner, and I hadnt been able to invite Lu Dongbin yet. The female ghost sneered evillyand turnedintoared ring-shapedobject, aimingat my throat.


    Youjerk!Lu Dongbin, youre a big swindler! Swindler! I cursed in desperation. Then, I screamedand ran towardthe red ring thing.Before I could raise my hand to attack, someone pped me.


    Who? Who theheckjust hit me?SinceI was going to die here,I didnt mind if Ioffendedmore wandering ghosts. I ignored everythingand cursedto my hearts content.


    Unexpectedly, after cursing, my other cheek also got pped. At the same time, a righteous voice arose. Youfool, try to curse me one more time.I dare you!


    I was stunned, but Iquicklypulled myself together.Lu Dongbinhadarrived!I felt like crying inside!


    Before the female ghostcould attackme again, I hurried to talk tohim.Immortal Sword, youre here. If you didnte, Iwould havedied here


    Actually, Ive been herefor quite awhile. I just didnt want to help you.Did you usethat broken stick to invite me? You insulted me! Lu Dongbings angry voiceechoed.


    After I listened to his words,I blushedand mumbledthat it was already goodthat I hadthis broken stick. Before I couldopenmy mouth to talk,my body feltmuch lighter and agiler. The broken halberd in my hand slowly glowed a magnificent blue halo.


    It was the immortal power of Lu Dongbin! Istopped running and raisedthe halberd, aiming itat the ghost.


    However, the female ghost was now quicklymovingaround in her ring-shaped form. My attacks only hit the void. I was like a yak stomping on flies, unable to hit my target. It was so frustrating!


    In the end, Lu Dongbin couldntbear itanymore. Kid, youre useless.


    Then, I lost control of my body.


    The blue light on the halberd in my hand shot up into the sky, creatinga series of shadows.All of the attacks hit the ring precisely.


    The ghost shrieked in agony. She couldnt endure the attacksanymore and transformedback into her originalform.


    She shotme a nce before turning into a redshadow and fleeingfrom the castle. I wanted to chase after her,but my body didnt listen to me.


    Before I could ask Lu Dongbin why he didnt want to let me chase the ghost,hespoke up. Show mercy! This is not our territory. Ibrokethe rule when I came here to save you


    Iunderstoodit now. Lu Dongbin was agod in China, but he was an uninvited guest in thisWestern country. He had to follow the rule here.


    Anyway, dont be scared.Iveinjuredthat thing, so it wont trouble you anymore, said Lu Dongbinin an indifferentvoice.


    Then, everything suddenly turned pitch ck in front of me. When Igot a hold ofmyself again, I felt the pain from my foot.


    I wanted to wake Li Mazi up to ask him to carry me back to the hotel, butI couldntwake him up no matter how hard I called him.In the end,Iasked Yin Xinyue to stay in the room and told her not to open the door. I simply decided to sleep here. Lu Dongbindid saythat the ghost wouldnte back to trouble me.


    I directlidnext to Li Mazi. I wasnt scared but somewhat excitedasI hadseeded in invitingImmortal Sword Lu Dongbin. It wasadeed I had never dreamt of doing before!


    When it waspletely bright outside, Li Mazi woke up. He askedwith a doubtful face,LittleBrotherZhang, whereare we? Whyare wehere?


    If not here, do you think we should be in an urn? I rubbed my swollen toesand fumed.


    I briefed Li Mazi onthe events that urrest night. Li Mazi was frightened. LittleBrother Zhang, you saved mylifeone more time


    I definitely did. Tell me, if you were to die, Iwould be able toshake off a lot of burdens, right? I teased him.


    Im sure you cant bringyourself to ditchme. Although Im not a professional, Im your useful assistant! Li Mazi smiled and got up to help me stand.


    Tch,I dont need your crocodile tears! I scoffed. However, myheart waswarm.

 Chapter 482: The Talented Musician Paganini

    Chapter 482: The Talented Musician Paganini


    People were weirdat times. Last night, when we were in deadly danger, I hated that I couldnt just pull Li Mazi and run away from this ce. I didnt want to linger in this churchfor even one second. As the danger was nowgone, I became curious about the female ghosts identity.


    That ghost must have been dormant in this church for quite a long time.If not, the churchshouldnt havethat much Yin energy!


    Moreover, since it had transformed into thatred ring-shapedobject, it was enough to prove that the ghost wasnt a departed soul. It was a spirit that had taken shelter inanotherworldly item.


    Otherworldly merchantsarealways curious about otherworldly items. Itslike when a farmerseesanotherfarmerwitha better crop even though they cultivated on the samend. Of course, hewouldwant to know the other mans technique.


    It didnt matter whetherIcould get the item or not.It was an upational habit!


    Li Mazi understood my idea. Moreover, hewas alsointerestedin this otherworldly item. We started to searcharoundthe church. Eventually, we found a violin inside a leather suitcase that was coveredina thickyer of dust.


    Yesterday, when the female ghost appeared for the first time, she had used the melodic music from a violin to bewitch us. I could feel the Yin energyfromthe violin in front of us.Ithought it was the otherworldly item where the ghost was dwelling!


    However, after studying the musical instrument, wedidnt find anythingspecial about it. The wooden body of the instrument had some cracks, and the only thing I found interesting was that the violins four strings were light red, which was simr to the rope Li Mazi had used to hang himselfst night.


    Even so, I didnt see anything strange about those strings. I felt somewhat disappointed.


    Li Mazi pushed me a few times.LittleBrother Zhang, if this stuff can nurture such a powerfndfurious spirit, it should be worth a lot of money. Should we take it?


    No. Immortal Lu is right.Weshouldfollow therules when in a foreign country.


    I sighedand putthe violin backinits suitcase. I wiped off the dust on the leather suitcase and left with Li Mazi.


    On the way back, I noticed that thebruiseson Li Mazis neck had almost disappeared, and only afaint gray line remained.Thiswas a normal physiological phenomenon. It would disappearpletely in a few days. I could now ease my worries.


    When wereturnedto the hotel, Ru Xue and Yin Xinyues eyes were teary. They began to sob loudly as they had thought that they wouldnt be able to see us again. Li Mazi and I had to exert a lot of effort tofort them.


    After this incident, wewerent inthe mood to continue our tour. Since Li Mazi and I needed to rest, we decided to stay in the hotel for another day. Then,we would fly back home.


    Unexpectedly, after a nap, thebruisereappeared on Li Mazis neck.


    Moreover, it looked evenbigger. The thumb-sized wide bruise hada lot ofblistersthat werethesize of a grain ofrice.They wouldburst and ooze bloody pus after just agentle contact. Li Mazi didnt dare to talk, drink, or eat. He had to endurethehorrible pain even when he gulped his saliva.


    When Ru Xue wasnt watching him, he seized the chance and typed a line of words on his phone. He showed it tome. LittleBrother Zhang, this time,I dont think Ill make it. You should give me a quick death!


    I felt like my heart was bleeding, but I didnt know what to do. The neckwasdifferent from other body parts. If we were careless, hewouldreally die!


    Left with no choice, I had to ask Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue to stay in the hotel while I was going totakeLi Mazibackto the church. This time, even if Lu Dongbin didnt agree, I would try to kill that ghost!


    I had given her a chance,and she didnt appreciate it. Sinceshe wanted to kill Li Mazi, I had to deal with her!


    When we passed by the lobby, the staff member that had reminded me yesterday saw us and greeted us. He gaveus a thumbs-up.I guessed he thought we were awesomebecausewehad returnedalive after dealing with that ghost.


    I was worriedaboutLi Mazi, so I just gave him a polite nod and proceeded to the door.


    Unexpectedly, when the young staffer saw the bruise on Li Mazis neck, his face turned pale. He screamed, Your friend is poisoned. You must help him detoxify it!Otherwise,he will die soon!


    Itappeared as though he knew this sickness. I haltedto listento him.


    It turned out that the church behind the hotel was calledGhost Castle.


    People who visited that ce wouldwake up at nightandfind abruiseon their neck. Fortunately, a doctor in this neighborhood could treat this sickness, so all the victims were cured.


    I was bewilderedand feltuncertain. Youmean...Thece is haunted but no one has died yet. Is thatright?


    Yeah, its true. The staff member nodded.


    We then introduced ourselves. He was a local Italianwho workedas a waiter in this hotel. He was called Marco.


    He was really friendly. He said,Zhang, I know that doctors address. Do you need me to take you there?


    Yes. Thank you. I felt touched.


    Then, I got intoMarcos car with Li Mazi. On the way, I kept thinking about one issue.If that female ghost had never killed anybody, she wasnt a malicious spirit.Why did shepester Li Mazi?


    Fromwhattook cethis morning, she seemed tohavespared Li Mazi. Why did she change her mind all of a sudden? Did something happen that we didnt know about?


    I decided to go back to that church to check after Li Mazi got his neck treated. If possible, I would help that female ghostascend.


    The doctor was calledPaolo. He lived on a ranch in the West of Mn around a dozen miles away from the hotel. There were so many bridges andnarrow streetsalong the way, butMarcoseemed to know the route well.


    Before entering Dr.Paolos ranch, I secretly asked,How do you know this ce so well?


    Haha.Dr.Paolos my father!


    I was speechless.


    When we met Dr.Paolo, he was ying golf. He was a chubby,middle-aged man with an aquiline nose.Hiseyes were small but bright.He was the same sort of person asSenior Shu. They both had a humble appearancebut were incrediblytalented!


    However, I didnt expect thatPaolocould speak Chinese fluently. Moreover,he sounded very professional, and he only askedLi Maziabout the disease.He didnt ask whatwe had encounteredorwhat we had experienced.


    Dr.Paoloasked us to wait after Li Mazi told himhow he felt,headingto theranch-stylehouse. We didnt know what he was up to. After about fifteen minutes, he came back with a bowl of dark paste and a bottle of golden olive oil.


    Paoloasked Li Mazi to drinka little bit ofolive oil. Then, he applied the dark paste onthebruise.


    From theconfident expression of the father and the son, I thought this treatment would work. However,it wasbeyondmy expectation that itwould workso quickly. After smearing the paste on Li Mazis neck,Paoloread something in Italian. Then, the bruise disappeared at a speed the naked eye could observe!


    Li Mazi could speak again in less than ten minutes!


    Of course, I understood it wasntanordinary medical treatment.However,it was none of my business. Li Mazi was cured, and that was all that mattered. I didnt need topry into their secrets.


    As I was thinkingaboutvisitingthe Ghost Castle one more time, Imustered my courageand askedPaoloif he knew the story there.


    He lifted his cup of coffee and asked, Friends from China, do you know Paganini?


    Yes, I know him. He was a great violinist! I nodded.


    From what I had heard, Paganini was thecreatorof many violin songs in the world. I didnt know anything else about him. However,ifPaolomentioned his name, the violin in the leather suitcase should have something to do with him!


    Unexpectedly,Paoloseemed to be stimted after I said that. No! Hedoesntdeservepraise. He was a devil. A pure devil fromheadto toe!


    Paolo told me thatPaganini was just a street artist, and not many people liked his songs at that time. His violin performances on the street could barely help him make ends meet. Later, a young and beautiful female violinistfell in love withhim. She even imparted him with her unique skills.


    Paganinis life changed greatly ever since then. However, his violin performance had always been inferior to his teacher, who was also his lover.


    Later on, Paganini cruelly murdered his teacher. He disemboweled the womanand usedher intestines to make the four strings of his violin.


    From that day onward, Paganinis music seemed to have magic thatcould makepeople infatuated with it. He started to gain fame and glory.


    In hister years, Paganini suffered from a serious mental sickness, which eventually took his life. On his deathbed, heconfessed the truth. Paganinis titleasa devil genius was spread from there.


    My heart ached afterI listenedto the story.Thatwoman had loved the wrong man,and I couldnt understand what kind of thoughts or state of mind Paganini had when he killed his lover.


    It was nowonder the ghost of the female violinist hadnt left this world.Although her resentful energy was sky-reaching, in thest moment, she would control hermind. She never wanted to kill anybody.


    You want to help her?Paoloasked me with interest.


    We hadnt said anything, but we both knew what the other partywanted to do.There was no need to say anything.


    I nodded and smiled. Shouldnt I help her?


    Good luck to you, my friend. Good luck to her, too!Paolosmiledand hugged me. Then, he got on his horseand gallopedaround his ranch.


    Before leaving, I gaveMarcoa jade thatI had kept on mefor many years. My grandpahad givenme this blessed jade when he was alive. It could help avoid bad luck and neutralize the danger.Marcodidnt refuse itandgraciouslyreceivedthe item.


    I was happy tobefriend himand his father!


    When we returned to the hotel, the sky was dark. To not make Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue worried, Li Mazi and Ivisited them before headingtoward the church. We wanted to see the female ghost and ask her if she hadsomething she needed help with.


    When we were about to reach theentranceto the church, wesmelleda horrible stench. It was pretty much the sameasthe pungent smell we hadsmelledwhen we first encountered the ghost.


    Normally, if no one trespassed the church,the ghostwouldnt show up. But if someonewasin there now, who would it be? The locals didnt dare to visit this church.


    We didnt turn on the shlightand madeour wayintothe church.


    I vaguely heard somealkin Chinese. Moreover, I seemed tohaveheard this voice somewhere before.


    Since the distance was far and the voice was low, we could somewhat understand the conversation. That Chinese man was threatening the ghost. He wantedher to pester Li Mazi one more time. Otherwise, he would smash her soul!


    Screw it! I want to see whothat bastard is!


    Li Mazi couldnt stand still when he heard the voice. He jumpedand lungedtoward the shadow.


    I wasalso furious.What theheckis going on here? Some fellow from mycountrywasplotting againstme in a foreign country?


    It seemed that ever since we hade to Mn, we had stepped into the other partys trap.


    The other party heard the noiseand shhe shlight on us. When that person saw us, he was bewildered. He didnt care about the female ghost and rushedto the back of the church. When Li Mazi and Igot there, he was nowhere to be seen. Hehad runfaster than a rabbit.


    However,as we were about to leave, Li Mazi stepped on a solid object. He stooped and saw a domestic mobile phone from our country.


    Iunlockeditand tried to find some clues. Unexpectedly, thstcallsthis personhad receivedwerefrom

 Chapter 483: Ru Xue is the Traitor?

    Chapter 483: Ru Xue is the Traitor?


    Why? Why did she have to do this?


    Li Mazi trembledas he lookedat the number on the phone screen.


    After a long time, he grabbed my arm, asking in a disbelieving tone,LittleBrother Zhang,canyou tell me why she had to do this? You know how much I love her!


    Li Mazis tears rolled down his face. I was also shocked as thest person this mysterious person had contacted was Ru Xue!


    I didnt know how tofort Li MazisinceRu Xue was probably a traitor.


    It was Ru Xue who had insisted that we visit Mn. She was also the onewhohad chosen this hotel.Moreover,shemight be the one who had triedto kill Li Mazi in their hotel room that night. Perhapsthefemale ghost didnt have anything to do with it.


    Then, atthest moment, sherecalledhowmuchLi Mazilovedher and decided to let him go.However,I didnt know how Ru Xue was rted to that mysterious person.Did they buy her, or was it possible thatshe was the enemys pawnright from the start?


    Several questionspopped upin my head. However,I thoughtaboutLi Mazis loveforher, soI saidcalmly, You dont need to panic. Theremightbea reasonbehind this


    A reasonbehind this?


    Li Mazi wiped histears. In aself-mockingvoice, he said,What kind ofthing couldmake her give up our love and marriage?


    Then, he held his head lowand saidnothingas we headedback to the hotel.I was afraid that he wouldstart fighting withRu Xueas soon as we got back. However, Ididnt know what to say and just followedhim.


    When we wereinthe corridor, Li Mazi halted for a moment before he entered his room. He lookedat mewith bloodshoteyes. LittleBrother Zhang, I, Li Mazi, am not a good person,but I know who treats me well. Youve saved my life many times, andI can never repay this favor. If she sells us this time, I will kill her with my own hands. Then,I will turn myselftothe police.


    Li Mazi knocked on the door, and as soon as we entered the room,heseemed to be another person. He smiled and happily chatted with Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue. He madethe womenugh continuously. Compared to him, I looked so unnatural. Yin Xinyue secretly asked me a few times ifanything wasbotheringme.


    Li Mazisnwassimple. He wanted totestRu Xue.WhenYin Xinyue and I returned to our room, I told her the story.


    Impossible! This is impossible! Yin Xinyue shook her headandrantednonstop. She didnt evenstopto think. Ru Xue is a good girl. Youvemisunderstood her!


    I knew that theyhad a good rtionship, but I had to tellherfrankly. Li Mazi and I want to trust Ru Xue, but things have nowe to this. We cant just consider love orrtionships. If Li Mazi and I hadnt overheard the conversation between the ghost and that mysterious person, Im afraid Li Mazi would have died.


    Yin Xinyue decided to trust me. Her voice grew sad. Brother Zhang, if itwasmy phone, would you treat me the same?


    Willit happen one day? Iughed then pulled her into my embrace.Yin Xinyue smiled and leaned againstmy shoulder.


    At around midnight, I got upand wentto Li Mazis room, knockingon his door. He soon opened the doorand asked,Whats going on?


    Ru Xue was on the bed, smiling at us. I didnt know what she was thinking.


    We should go to that church now! I cant ease my mind if we dont finish off that ghost! I almost screamed.


    While talking, I shot Li Mazi a nce. Li Mazi was a little surprised, but heunderstood what I meant. He turned and told Ru Xue to sleep with Yin Xinyue. Then, he left the hotel with me.


    We returned to the hotel shortly after and hidin the corridor to watch Ru Xues movements. Li Maziseyes bulged, and hisbodyshookuncontrobly. He was afraid that he would see something he didnt want to see.I was scared, too.


    Yin Xinyue cooperated with us. After we left, she went to Ru Xues room.


    We wanted to help Ru Xue. As long as she wasnt going to contact that mysterious person, we wouldnt mind what had happened previously. Yin Xinyue was there to watch Ru Xue.


    Unfortunately, the mobile phone in my hand rang. It was Ru Xues call.


    Hahaha


    Li Maziughed bitterly. He didnt say a wordand wentto his room, his bodyshakinghard. When he got to the door, he suddenly slumped onto the ground.


    LittleBrother Zhang, help me up!He tried to get up a few times, but he couldnt.His tears rolledas he askedfor my help.


    The corner of my mouth convulsed. I didnt mind Li Mazi and opened the door.


    I saw Yin Xinyue sitting on the bed, butRu Xue was nowhere to be seen. Yin Xinyue saw me. She didnt talkand gesturedtoward the toilet. She also lookedhelpless.


    All right, go back to our room and wait for me. Icaressedher face.


    Yin Xinyue nodded and left. Then, I waited outside the toiletand litup a cigarette.


    Meanwhile, the mysterious mans phone in my hand kept shing. All the calls were from Ru Xue. Li Mazistoodupand leanedagainst the wall, dumbly lookingat the door to the toilet.


    Finally, the door openedandRu Xue walked out. She was startled when she saw usand asked us in a suspicious tone,Oh, you are backalready?Did you solve everything?


    Ru Xue, youare still in the mood to pretend?I was blindto loveyou! Li Mazi roared crazily.He was about topRu Xue, buthis hand halted halfway.


    Gosh! You shouldjustleave! From now on, we are just strangers!Li Mazi didnt want to hurt Ru Xue. He wavedandaskedher to leave. I understoodand movedaside tomake way forher.


    Ru Xue looked hurt. She jumped towardLi Maziand huggedhim. Her voice choked with sobs. You dontwantme anymore? Did I dosomethingwrong? Am Inot good enough?


    Li Mazi had tears all over his face, but hegently pushed Ru Xue aside.


    All right, Illleave! Ru Xue looked at Li Maziin bewildermentfor a longtime. Then, she gave a self-mocking smileand rubbedher belly that had a smallbump. She put on her jacket and bag, then left.As she walked,she rummaged through her bag. She wassearching for something.


    When shepletely disappeared fromour sight, Li Mazi fellonhis kneesandpainfullypoundedhis head to the wall.


    It was really hard to ept the fact that your loved one had sold you to the enemy. I understood his pain, but I couldnt standtosee my brotherharmhimself.I went to the restaurant downstairs and bought a few bottles of wine. Li Mazi and I loved to stay in the antique shopto drinkwineand enjoysome light snacks.It was the time whenwe enjoyed ourpanionship and discussedourbusiness casesandour future.


    But it was different now. None of us said anything. We just kept gulping expensive red wine as though it was water. At the same time, we smoked a lot.


    Li Maziwas stillcrying, butI didnt know how tofort him. All I could do was stay with himand keep hipany.


    Who said that drinking red wine wouldnt make you drunk? Because Li Mazi was drunk already. And who said that men didnt cry easily?Because right now we couldn''t stop crying.


    I didnt know howmuchtime had passed, but after drinking all the bottles and smoking all the cigarettes, Li Mazi and I were lying on the ground like two dumb men.


    At thismoment, someone suddenly visited us. When he saw us, he screamed in surprise. Zhang, are you guys okay? What happened?


    Ilooked up and sawMarco. Igotupand shookmy head to clear my mind.Why are you here?


    I found a mobile phone outside. Its from your country, and it has Mr. Lis picture as thescreensaver. I guessedoneof youlost this phone.Marcowaved his hand. I tried to focusmy attention and saw that it was Ru Xues phone.


    After listeningtoMarco, Li Mazi reactedand quickly gotup. Where did you find this phone? Andwhen?


    Around twilight on the small path that leads to the Ghost Castle. My fatherknewwhere you wanted to go. Hewasworried that you would encounter something unexpected,so he asked me to go there to find you. But when I got to the castle, I didnt see you guys.


    Marcospread his armsand lookedat the room, which wasa mess. He didnt even have a ce tostand. Then, heasked, Zhang, did something happen?


    Its all right. Thank you,Marco. I pattedMarcos shoulder and received the phone from him. Li Mazi and I then crazily dashed downstairs.


    IfMarcohad picked up Ru Xues phone before the incident, the one that had just called the mysterious man wasnt Ru Xue. Someone else had used her phone to do that!

 Chapter 484: Dr. Paolo

    Chapter 484: Dr. Paolo


    I suddenly remembered that Ru Xue kept rummaging through her bag when she left. Now, Irealizedthat she was searching for her mobile phone. Perhaps,the mysterious person haddeliberatelyleft his phone behind, and the call history might have beenmade on purpose. He wanted to create a dispute between us!


    Ru Xuewas gone, so we had to put everything aside to find her. Thisgave the ghostplenty of timeto kill Li Mazi.


    There was still one thing that made me wonder. Ever since Li Mazi had joined this Circle, he was my assistant. Hedidnt haveany grudges againstanyone. If we had offended someone inadvertently, the other party shouldhave targetedme. Why did they exert their efforts to kill Li Mazi?


    At thismoment, Li Mazi was worried andfelt very guilty. He lingeredat the hotel entrance, unsure as towhat to do.


    Ru Xue had left for quite a long time. The camera showed that shegot intoa taxi, but wedidntknow where shewent.


    LittleBrother Zhang, do you think Ru Xuewillencounter danger? Li Mazi squatted and lookeddispirited. Ru Xues a pregnant woman. Shewouldntbea threat to anybody. She wouldnt be in danger,right?


    I frowned as Ididnt know how to answer. The other party had tried their best to split us apart. How could theyleaveRu Xuealone?There was nodoubt that Ru Xuewaskidnapped.


    It was like the time Li Mazi and his son were kidnapped.Besideswaiting for the other partys call, we couldnt do anything.


    Moreover, I believed that if theywere able to takeRu Xues phone right under ournoses, they would have to be more than one person. They could bewatchingevery move of ours!


    I believed that they would call us soon. I asked Li Mazi to wait for me outsideasI went to the hotel toilet to call Chuyi. From what I knew,he had returned to HongKong asa rich man had asked him to solve a problem. I hadnt heard from himsince then anddidnt know where he was now. If possible, I hoped he coulde to rescue us.


    I realized that our enemy wasnt the female ghost but the living people hiding in the dark. Theywerelikelypeople from the Longquan Vi!


    After the line connected, Chuyiwentstraightto the matter. Whats the problem?


    This habit of his would neverchange. I sighed andquickly briefed him about the situation. Could youe to Italy to help us?


    With his nature, he would normally agree immediately. However, this time, he kept silent for a while then slowly spoke up. I cane to help you.


    I was bewilderedand recognizedthat his voicewasfeeble. Itsounded like he waswounded. What happened? Are you all right?


    Yeah. Zen MasterBaimeiand I got a case. But were in trouble. It seemsthatthe Longquan Vi is behind this. I chere to help you.


    Take care and be more careful. No need to worry about me here. I know what to do, I said, then hung up the call.


    Chuyi was always frankwithme. If he said he couldnt help us, itmeant he wasin great trouble. Moreover, Zen MasterBaimeiand Chuyis situationsoundedeven more perilous than mine. I was now worried about them.


    I thought about the situation and clenched myteeth. Then, I called Senior Shu. Unexpectedly, that despicable old man wasalso busy. His hideout was exposed, and he was now on the run.Despite being a millionaire, he didnt even have a decent ce to stay in.


    Senior Shuwasnt a righteous person, and he liked to foolhisjuniors. But every time we sought his aide, hewould help us. He didnt need to pretend torefuse to help. I told him to take care, then hung up the call with a discouraged face.


    I now recognized that after so many cases, I had never been parted from the help ofChuyi, Zen MasterBaimei,Senior Shu,ormy grandfather.Sincethey couldnt help me now, Iwas useless!


    With this thought, I suddenlyrealized something. Allof us were in trouble at the same time.Thishad never happened before.


    I hoped that everything was just a coincidence.


    I worriedly went back to the door to wait there with Li Mazi.


    Soon, Ru Xues phone rang. Li Mazi resolutely stood upand snatchedthe phone from me. He epted the cand shoutedcrazily,What do you want? Illdo whatever you want! Dont hurt my Ru Xue!


    The people on the other end of the line kept quiet for a long moment beforethey spokeup. The mans voice was cold.You want me to release her?Thats easy.Juste to the Ghost Castle.Comealone!


    I couldnt helpbut shoutat the phone. Who are you? Why do you want to harmus?


    The other party sneered. Zhang Jiulin, if you dontwant to see the girldie, you shouldnte!Otherwise, theywill bothhave to die! Of course, Li Mazi can choose not toe. Haha!


    Then, hehung up. Li Mazinced at me and askedme to wait in the hotel. He made a turn to the meandering path. I grabbed himand scoffed,Youbastard, you dont want to live anymore? You want to go there to die?


    Li Mazi halted for a moment. He gave me a wry smileand keptwalking away. I was bewildered but didnt stop him.


    His wife and child were kidnapped. It was understandablethat he wanted to go there.


    In the worst case, he would die together with his beloved. I couldnt stop him, so I had to follow himfrom adistance.


    Lu Dongbin had wounded the ghost, so the thickyer of fog outside the Ghost Castle was much thinner. Under the pale moonlight, we could see the rows of seats facing the door.We couldnt see anything beyondthat.


    Take care of Li Meng and Ru Xue for me, saidLi Mazi. Hedidntlook back and enteredthe church.


    It was hisway of tellingme to stop following him.There was noneed to imagineit. Awaitingus inside was the female ghost and even our enemy. If I went with him, I would bekilled too.


    Anyway, I was certain that the enemy wasnt afraid of me.Such being the case, whydidn''t theywant me to enter the church?


    I couldnt figure it out. However,atthis moment, I wasnt the one whowas in control ofthe situation. If Li Mazi couldnt return, my only hope was that the enemy would keep their words and release Ru Xue.


    I would bring her and Yin Xinyue back to Chinaandhide themsomewhere. Then, I would tryall means to find these people and take revenge for Li Mazi! I would destroy everything that belonged to them, including their families! I swore I would never leave anyone alive!


    Just in case, Iheaded backto the hotel. I needed toask Yin Xinyue to leave first. Ifsomething happened to her, Iwouldnt even be able totake care of Li Mazis funeral!


    On the way back, I saw twopeoplewalkingtoward me. They wereMarcoand Dr.Paolo. Dr.Paolohad a wooden scepter in his hand. When hesawme, he exhaledand asked, Whats going on in there?


    WhenMarcosaw me and Li Mazi worriedlyleavethe hotel, he realized that we were in trouble. He hurried to bring his father here. From the surveince camera, they knew we had departed to the Ghost Castle. Thatwaswhy they hurried toe and help us.


    After listeningto him, I was so touched that I couldnt even utter a word. I could only give a deep bowandtoldthem about the mysterious person.


    Dr.Paolughed.He pointedat the haunted churchandsaid boldly, In this old castle,no one has the right to speakexcept forme!


    Then, he carried his scepterand tookthe lead. He enteredthe church.Marcofollowed his fatherand gaveme an OK gesture tofort me. I gave him a thumbs-up, feeling a little better.


    SincePaoloand his son, two experts in the field,were here to deal with thosepeople,there was no need for me to be afraid.


    Paolowalked into the church resolutely. I followed after him. Soon, I saw Ru Xue tiedto thebench and Li Mazi on the ground. Three people wearing ck clothesstoodby them. Although theyworeckveilsthat concealedtheir faces, they couldnt hide theirAsianfacial features.


    I looked around. The female ghost was nowhere to be seen. I guessed that since Li Mazi was in their hands,thesepeople didnt need to use the ghost.


    Theyhad seen us as soon as we stepped intothechurch. However, they didnt stop usnor did theysay anything. Right from the start, their eyes were fixed on the scepter in Dr.Paolos hand!

 Chapter 485: Devil

    Chapter 485: Devil


    Those people seemed to beveryafraid ofPaolo. The leader of the group scoffed, You want to put your hands in our Longquan Vis business? Have you thought of the consequences?


    The three of you shouldleave.Paolodidnt even bat an eye. He looked at Ru Xue and Li Mazi while waving his hand disdainfully at the other three.


    After hearinghim, my courage swelled up.My blood boiled as if Iwaswatching a thrilling American-European movie.


    The three men in ck were angry. They gazed atPaololikeatiger watchinghisprey. They seemed to want to attack him.Paoloheld his scepter horizontally in front of himand readsomething. Immediately, the room temperature dropped sharply. Moreover,judging bythe horrified looks on the three men, I knew therewassomething behind me.


    Marcostopped meright asI was about to turn my head around to see. He looked at meand shookhis head.


    I had to give up this thoughtand keptmy eyes on the enemies. They hesitated for a long time before reluctantly bowing toPaolo. Afterward, they left through the back door.


    As soon as they left, I rushed to untie Ru Xue.After confirmingshe wasnt hurt, I heaved a sigh of relief. Then, I woke Li Mazi up. He was stunned but the people in ckhadnthurt him.


    I didnt know why they just wanted to keep them unconscious here.I askedPaoloabout this. His current performance proved that he was more than capable to help us.


    Paolodidnt answer me but scanned the ce. When he looked at the ceiling, he took a deep breath.Marcoand I followed hisgaze. A female body was hung above our heads. Her long hair hung like a waterfallthat billowedwith the wind.


    I turned on the shlightandcarefullyshoneitoverher. It was a dried body. Except for her hair, her entire body was withered. Herclothes were faded and tattered. She looked disgusting.


    I noticed her outfitand found itfamiliar. It was the satin dress the ghost had worn the other day! Wasthisthe dead body of the violinist?


    Father, whats going on?


    Marcoturned toPaolo. In a shiveringvoice,he said,Why are her remains here?


    Ivealways had keen eyeswhen ites to readingpeople.Marcowas the sort of man that could remain calm in every situation. However, this body made him flustered. I felt my heartsink.


    It seemsthis groupdoesnt justwant to kill Zhang. They want tocreate adevil! Are they crazy?!Paolowas enraged. Then, he took usand leftthe Ghost Castle.


    When we returnedto the hotel,PaoloaskedMarcoto stay with us. He wasgetting readyto prepare something. Before Ireturn, do not leave the hotel.


    I then knew that this hotel belonged to their family. I had thought thatMarcowas just a bellboy here, but it turned out that he was the Crown Prince


    As soon asPaololeft, Iimpatiently asked, Marco, could you tell me about that dead body? I dont understand what your fathermeant.


    Marcogave me a nod.


    To Western people, devils were likeghostsin our country. They were ssified as spiritualbeings.


    The difference was thatan expertcouldrestrain aspirit, butadevil would listen to no one.Devils didnt have sanity, and they had only one purpose:Todestroy every living thing around them. Thatwaswhy Western people hatedthem.


    Before Paganini died, he had confessed his sin.Akind man held the funeral for his teacher. He also put the violin whose strings weremade of her intestines into the coffin with her in hopes that her grudge woulddisappearand that she could go to heaven.


    Unfortunately, the ghost had been hurt too deeply, andshe didnt want to leave. The ghostlynature made her harm people. However, shehadalways been a kind woman, so she didnt want to kill anybody.


    Paolohad builtthehotel to watch over the Ghost Castle and help people that were attacked by the ghost. The two parties somewhat had a vague agreement.


    However, those mysterious men had unearthed her body and hung her on the ceiling of the church.This actionprovoked the ghost, making it easier for her soul to merge with herdead body.Coupledwith the Yin energy in the castle,she would eventuallybe a devil. Those mysteriouspeoplehad alsobroughtLi Mazi and Ru Xue inside thecastleto offer their souls to the ghost, which wouldgiveher thenutrientsto be a devil even quicker.


    After listeningtoMarco, I felt angry and scared. I hated them fortrying to createa devil thatcouldkill anybody, but I was alsoafraid of the enemys madness.


    Zhang, youve offendedapowerful person. Im afraidthismeans big troubleMarcopatted my shoulder.


    Ihad aheadache. However, I knew those people were from the Longquan Vi. My only enemythat would go to such lengthswas the Longquan Vi.


    After talking toMarco, it was almost three oclock in the morning. I helpedLi Mazi to support Ru Xue upstairs to the room. She was polite to me, but she shot cold looksat LiMazi. It seemedshewas heartbroken because Li Mazididnt believeher.


    I couldnt help them with this. It was up to LiMazi tocoaxanforthis wife.


    After sending them to their room, I returned to mine. Yin Xinyue was sleeping, herphonestillin her hand. I checked her phone, and she hadlooked atthe pictures of the four of us before falling asleep.


    My heart ached, andI pulled her into myarms.


    You are back. Yin Xinyue shuddered when I suddenly hugged her. She woke upand lookedat me, looking rather sad.How is Ru Xue?


    Silly wife, everything is over. I hugged her tighterand toldher every detail.


    Yin Xinyue smiled after listening to me. Haha, IknewRu Xuewouldnever betray us!


    Sleep. Honey, wewill returnhome tomorrow!


    As thesituation remainedunsolved, Li Mazi and I couldnt leave, and Paolo was nowinvolved because of us. However, if the girls stayed here, I was afraid that they would be in danger. I had to send them home first.


    Yin Xinyue didnt want to leave us. However, she understood the situation, so she eventually agreed to leave first.


    After the women had fallen asleep, Li Mazi and I went downstairs and waited. Soon,Paoloreturned.Hebrought backa copper mirror and a bust of Paganini.


    On the way to the Ghost Castle,Paolotold us that he wanted to use the Paganini bust to attract the female ghost. Then, he would seize that chance toclimbup to the ceiling to get her body down. As soon as we could separate her body and her soul,those peoplesn of making a devil wouldfail!


    Butthatghost hadexisted fora few hundred years, so the bust of Paganiniwasntenough to trick her. Weneededsomeo holdthe copper mirror and the bust.That person would need tolet his image and the bust reflect in the mirror at the same time.


    The mirror belonged to the category of Yin items, especially thiscopper mirror dating tothe Medieval Age. When someonelooked inthe mirror with the Paganini bust, they would leave theirsoul aura in it, which would trick the female ghostinto thinkingthat it was Paganinis soul.


    However, this task was extremely dangerous. Since the ghost was about to be a devil, her resentful energy hadrocketed. If one didnt dodge fast enough, he would perish. Li Mazi and Ipeted to do this task. Unexpectedly,PaoloaskedMarcoto hold the mirror.


    Because Li Mazi and I didnt speak Italian, our n would fail if the ghost talked to us.We had tofollowPaolos arrangement.


    Afterwe enteredthe Ghost Castle,Paolowrapped some clothes around the Paganini bust.


    He moved a rusted, steeldder from the back of the churchand brought it tothe main hall.Then, he slowlystarted to climb up. Li Mazi and I held thedder for him.


    Marcopicked up the Paganini bust. Soon, acoldwind blew into the hall from a small room in the back. The female ghost appeared at the lectern. When I saw her face, Itook a deep breath.Her face was ashen, her eyebrows had turned purple,andher lips weredeep red.


    When she saw me, she waspuzzled. Then, she sawPaoloon thedder, who was readyto remove her body. She bared her fangsand flewtoward us.


    Everything happenedtooquickly. BeforeMarcocould react, theghost came right in front of us. I got a sh of witatthis instantand picked up Paolos scepterto attackher. The ghost was sent a few meters backward.Unfortunately,the scepter was broken into two pieces. Mypurlicue was torn and bled.


    Marcoseized the timeandsaid something in Italian. The female ghost now turned to him.When she sawthe bust of Paganini, she turned extremely malicious. I had never seen her so angry before.I was a few meters away from her, but Icould feelher sky-reaching resentful energy!


    However, she didnt advance. Instead, she hesitatedat her spot.


    Marcothought it was the right time.He immediatelyraised the copper mirrorand shone his figure in it. The blurry mirror suddenly had the head of Paganini. Itlooked so real.


    The ghost didnt hesitate anymore. She roaredandflew quicklytoward him!

 Chapter 486: The Lance of God

    Chapter 486: The Lance of God


    Marco ranoutside. The bust in his hand wasnt light. It wasdifficultenough tojust hold it, and nowhe was introublebecausehe had to run. After a few steps, the bust shookandfelltothe ground with a low thud.


    The female ghost reacted fast. She shot us a fierce nceandturned into a red ring, aimingat Dr.Paolos throat.


    Paolohad just reached the bodyandwas untying the body from the rope.When he sawthe ghostheadtoward him, he swiftly jumped off thedder. He picked up the staff on the floorand gave me the other half. He said,This n wont work. The ghost is much more powerful than I expected.


    Then, he rushed out of the church. The ghost wanted to follow us at first, butshe then decided to stayand hoveredin midair to protect her body.


    After we escaped,Paolocasually threw his staff aside. He didnt want to use it anymore. Whydidthe scepterbreak?


    The scepter inPaolos hand looked mighty. Moreover, from the bishops logo on it, it wasntanordinary scepter. It was beyond my expectation that the scepter wouldbreak.


    Paoloshook his headand sigheddeeply.


    Marcosecretly pulled metothe sideand whispered,The scepter isnt simr to magical weapons. It only works when the user reads the spell. At that time, you didnt read the spell. Thats why it broke so easily.


    Marco, Im so sorry


    Seeingtheir expressions, I knew I had carelessly destroyed their familys treasure. I didnt know how tpensate for it.Marcojust smiledandfortedme. My father has many treasures. Its not a problemthatoneisbroken.


    I smiled, but I was thinking abouttheotherworldly items I should send them topensate.


    Iveleft some bugs on the corpse. The maggotswillgrow and multiplyquicklyin thatdarkcastle. Countless maggotswillproducein one night. It should be enough to nibble the entire corpse,Paolotold me before he left.


    However, those men in ck wouldnt just stand and stare. The maggots could only hold back the female ghost from turning into a devil for a while. Itwouldnt change the result.


    Paolosuggested thatwe headhome to consider the solutions to deal with the devil. He implied that we shouldnt put our hands in this, but how could I agree with him?


    Early the next day, we took Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue to the airport to go home.


    When we sawthe twodiesleavesafely, Li Mazi and I exchanged smiles.


    Men are never afraid of challenges! We are afraid of hindrances! Since our loved ones were safe, we could followPaoloand have a good fight with that devil.


    Duringthe next fewdays, Li Mazi and I roamed around the big streets and small alleys of Mn. Eventually, we found a genuine peach wood sword.Thesword radiated a light red halo, and the handle was polished due to frequent use. After a long time of working in this business, I knew it was an antique from the Tang Dynasty right away. I offered the shopkeeper a high price to get the sword. However, he denied it. He allowed us to borrow the sword, but we had to return it after we were done.


    In addition tothe sword, I got two warm and smooth pieces of jade that could enhance the Yang energy for the wearer. Idrewmany spirit talismanswhen I returnedto the hotel.After the preparations wereplete, I askedMarco,When can we start?


    My father needs one more day to prepare. Tomorrow night, well take action.


    I was stirred up, thinking thatthe casewoulde to an end. I hoped no mistakes would be made at thistime. To ensure our safety, Li Mazi and I stayed in the hotel for the whole dayas we waitedto take action withPaolothe next day. Unexpectedly, something really bad happened the next day.Marcoreceived a call from his housekeeper. The old mantoldhim that Dr.Paolowasdead!


    AsMarcocriedtelling me the sad news, I was baffled. I followedMarcoto his familys ranch. We sawPaolos body soaked in the swimming pool.


    From the characteristic of the body,Paolohad been dead for at least twelve hours. In other words,hewas dead whenMarcogathered with usst night to celebrate in advance.


    Marcodidnt me the servants in the house, and he didntinvestigatePaolos death, either. He quietly preparedPaolos funeral arrangementsin a low-key manner. SincePaolowas one of the most famous business benefactors in Mn, his funeral was held in the Cathedral of Mn.


    MarcodirectlycedPaolointo the coffin and sent the coffin to the main hall of the church as he was afraid that the devil had almostpleted the transformation.


    Li Mazi and I werent Christians. We didnt enter the main hall as the ceremonycarried on. We just waited outside.


    This church wasthergest Gothic church in the world. Everydetail of this ce looked so solemnand thefollowers inside looked pious. They yedmournful music.


    I pulled Li Maziand askedhim to go outside for fresh air. He didnt want to leaveandenthusiasticallyshowedme the surroundings. Look, the Jesus statue here isnt simrtothe ones in other ces.


    Is it? I thought it was interestingand wentwith him tolook atthe statue of the crucified Jesus.


    Jesus was looking upward. Hislimbs were nailed on the cross,and he had a Roman soldiers silvernce stabbed at his side. Thence emitted cold light that could bewitch peoplesminds.


    The most bizarre thing was that the tip of thence had a beam of uncoagted blood, which looked as if it had just streamed down a human body.


    After the funeral mass was over,Marcowent out. Li Mazi and I said our condolences to him.


    I will inherit my fathers will. I will continue to fight thedevil. However, Im not asgood as him. I dont know what to do next.


    AlthoughMarcohad announced to people that his father died of drowning while swimming, we knew it was the Longquan Vi who had assassinated him.


    Marcohad prepared a huge sum to invite the Bishop and other priests to help us expel the devil. I shook my headand toldhim not to do so.


    Paolo had passed away, soMarcohad to takecare of allof his familys business matters. However, his position in thepany hadnt been stabilized yet. If he createdamess, people with darkandambitious hearts would takethechance to overthrow him and take away the family businessPaolohad been struggling his whole life to build and maintain.


    After listeningto me,Marcoepted my idea,anddispiritedlypulledhis hair.Wehad todirecthis attention by asking him aboutanirrelevant topic.


    What is that spear thing that has blood on it? asked Li Mazi.


    Marcofollowed Li Mazisgaze. He answered weakly, thenloweredhis head again,The Lance of God.


    Marcowasan enthusiasticyoung man.However, since his father suddenlypassedaway, all the burdens had beenid on his shoulders at once. He became flustered and helpless.Thatnight,Marcohad to hold a vigil beside his father in the church. Li Mazi and I stayed with him.


    There were only three of us in thevast church. The lights were switched off, leaving some big candles as the only sources of light. In this dark interior, the most eye-catching thing was the blood on the Lance of God.


    I couldnt control my curiosity. Marco, do you know the origin of the Lance of God?


    When Jesus was crucified by the Romans,the wind roared and roamed the entire city at the moment he died. Dark clouds covered the sky as though God was crying. Three dayster, a Roman soldier wentto check if Jesus was dead or not. Thatsoldier used his spear to stab his side.Blood spurted from the cut, and Jesus opened his eyes again. The Roman soldier wasgreatlyinfluenced, and he became a Christian afterward. Thence that had Jesuss bloodter became the Lance of God or the Spear of Destiny.As Christianity was spreading fast and wide, Jesus graduallybecamethe supremeGod in the hearts of Europeans. Thencebecamethe sacred item held in the Cathedral of Mn. Peoplesaythat no matter what time of the year it is, Jesuss blood on thence will never dry. It protects the entire city of Mn and the people living here. It can explldevils!


    After listening to him, I nodded then closed my eyes.


    That itemisaWestern otherworldlyitem,isntit?

 Chapter 487: The Bible

    Chapter 487: The Bible


    Before Ifesleep, the temperature suddenly dropped. I vigntly opened my eyes, but there was nothing at the entrance.


    However, I was sure that the coldwind came from the door.Was it just a hallucination?


    Li Mazi was yingonhis phoneandMarcowas sitting with his head held low.Hey guys, did you see anything enter the hall?


    They shook their heads.


    Li Mazi didnt take it seriously. This is the biggest church in Mn. It isthe ce where God is enshrined. How could anything foule in?


    Then, hewentback to yingonhis phone. I thought he was rightanddecidedto resume my nap.


    However, a strongergust ofwind suddenly swept into the hall. This time, both Li Mazi andMarcofelt it. They turned to look at the entrance.


    The Yin energy at the entrance had grown thicker, and the candles inside the church began to flicker. It wasnt agood sign! Moreover, wehad joinedthewake tonight, andI didnt bring anything with me!


    Another gust of wind blew toward us,blowingout all the wax candles in the hall. I saw Yin Xinyuewaveat me at the door. When I saw her, I was so happy that Isubconsciouslywalked towardher.


    After a few steps, Irealized something was wrong. Yin Xinyue had departed to China, so this had tobe an illusion!


    I bit the tip of my tongueto tryto wake myself up. I heaved a sigh of relief whenthe image ofYin Xinyue disappeared. I turned to my sideand was aboutto ask the other two to be more cautious. However, there was no one around me. They were gone.


    Holymoly! I cursedand was aboutto go out to find them.


    But when I turned around, I saw the Lance of God. I wentover and broughtmy palms together. Then, I boweddeeply to the statue, drawingthenceand dashingtoward the door.


    Its a foreign ghost, so I should use thisforeign Sacred Weapon to deal with it! Itshould be more effective!


    Unexpectedly, when Iwentout, I didnt see the two of them. A thick Yin energy lingered in the ce. I knew they were bewitched and captured by the foul thing. I started to run faster. However, after alongdistance, I still hadnt seen them. I smelled the Yinenergy of thefemale ghostin the air. Moreover, the further I went, the thicker the Yin energybecame.


    I was bewildered, and ahorrible possibility popped up in my head.Maybe the female ghost had alreadytransformedinto a devil


    We had wounded her seriously before, so she must have considered us her worst enemies.Thatwaswhy she wanted to trick usinto leavingthe church. It alsoshowed meshe was afraid of God!


    I looked at the Holy Lance in my handand grittedmy teeth. Then, I rantoward the Ghost Castle where the female ghost took shelter.


    Along the way, I kept thinking whether the ghost had be a devil or not. If not, it would be all right. Butifshe did, would the Lance of God work? Could Li Mazi andMarcoendure it until Iarrived?


    I called a taxi toarrive at the Ghost Castle before the female ghost.However, when I passed by the hotel, I still hadntcaught up tothem. It was beyond my estimationbecause when someone was bewitched,theywouldmove veryslowly.This made meeven more worried.


    I didnt even know if the Lance of God wouldwork, soI decided toheadback to the hotel to fetch the peach wood sword.Iwasready foramatch of life anddeathwith the ghost!


    Fortunately, as soon as I entered the meandering path behind the hotel, I saw Li Mazi andMarcowalking slowlyoverthere. Perhaps the ghost had let them slow down as she thought they couldnt escape.


    Ifelt somehope again! I rushed forward to catch up with them. Then, I forcefully pped them.


    Theydid not snap out of itbutlookedat me fiercely. Their eyessparkledlike those of a wild beast. In unison, they kicked me.


    I didnt expect that the ghost could control them to attack me.Li Mazis kick sent me to the ground, but itdidnt stop there. They rolledtheir eyes andbaredtheir teeth as they pressed on me.


    Their bodies feltincredibly heavy. I tried my best to wiggle free, but it didnt work. In the end, I had to bite the tip of my tongue and spit blood onto their bes.


    The two stiffenedright after.Then, they slumped aside. The weight on my body disappeared. I knew they wouldsoon wake up, soI got up from the groundandangrilylookedat the Ghost Castle.


    LittleBrother Zhang, what should we do now? Li Mazis sanity was returned.


    It seemed he knew what he hadjust donebutwasntable to control his body. I clenched myteeth. Since,it hae to this, what elsecan wedo? We can only risk our lives and fight with her!


    Then, I grabbed the Lance of Godand dashedaway.


    The moment I entered the hall, the Yin energy inside felt much heavier. Sparkling,purple wispshoveredin the air. In thepast, my grandfather had told me thatthis phenomenonwas calledvicious currents,and all thingsthatcould createvicious currents were very intimidating.


    I wanted to leave butthoughtaboutMarco,whose father had just passed away, soI quickly pulled myself together.


    As I approachedthe lectern, I didnt see the ghosts dried body. My heart sank.Did the ghostmerge withher body?


    Anxiously, I looked around to see if I could spot the ghost. Butthe Yin energy in this church was like a thick curtain of fog;I couldnt see anything. I didnt know what to do.


    Suddenly, someone screamed behind me. I turned and found Li Mazi andMarcofightingoneother. Their faces looked ferocious, just as though they deeplyhatedthe other.


    While I was hesitating,Li Mazi had already grabbedMarcos throat.Marcodid not seemtofeel anypain, and he simply pounded his fist on Li Mazis head.


    In a shorttime, they both had blood on their bodies. I knew the ghost wanted us to kill each other. Ihurriedto wake them up.


    WhenLi Mazi gota hold of himself, the first thing he did was swear.Damn it! A momentof carelessnessand wewerebewitched again!


    Hold this! I handed Li Mazi the Lance of God.


    The female ghost had bewitched us twice, and I wasnt affected even once. Except for my strong mentality, the Holy Lance must have also yed arole.


    In the meantime,I askedMarcoto read the Bible aloud!


    If thesacredtext of Daoism could stabilize the mind and expel evilspirits, I guessed reading the verses from the Bible would have the same effect!


    Indeed, as soon asMarcostarted to read something in Italian withhissolemn voice, the Yin energy around us began to thin out. It felt warm, just as though the sunlight was shininginthis ce.

 Chapter 488: The Serenade of Love

    Chapter 488: The Serenade of Love


    Wesuddenly hearda burst of horribleughterfrom above. We lifted our heads and saw the dried bodyhangingfroma beam.The moment we lookedather, she swung her handand toreher clothes, revealing her rotten body.


    I couldnt helpbut retch. I immediately drew the peach wood swordand aimed itat her!


    She didnt attack us. Instead, she hovered overthe lecternand mumbledsomething indistinctive.


    The female ghost kept making strange sounds.Then, the Yin energyin the areabegan to congregatearoundher. The ghostswitheredanddposed body started to replenishand swellup. Not even after one minute, she had be a nakedandsexy woman.


    Li Mazi gulped his salivaand saidshamelessly, If I die in her hands, Ifeelitll beworth it.


    Iignored him and turnedtoMarco, telling himto protect himself. Then, I took the peach wood swordand dashedtoward the female ghost.Marcoheld meand screamed,Zhang, you cant go! Shes a devil now! Youre not her opponent!


    You dont know if you dont try! Move!


    I understood thatMarcohad good intentions. However,if we didnt take risks now, we wouldntbe able to leave alive. I pushed him asideand thrustmy swordforward.


    AsI was approaching her, the ghost didnt move. Whenever danger was near, she wouldturn into a ringof light. I smirkedand thoughtthatIdbeen practicinghow to hit a movingring alotthese past days. I had practicedjust to be able to counter her move.


    However, I didnt expect that the ghost would do something else this time.The momentI was about to hit her chest, the corner of her mouth rose, and she suddenly disappeared.


    My sword hit the void. After a second of bewilderment, I heard Li Mazi scream.


    Watch out!


    At that moment, a strong force hit my back.


    I was sent a few meters forward. When Inded, I vomited blood. The ghost stood at the ce I had just stabbed herand gaveme a disdainful smile. She provokingly licked her lips.


    Screwyou!


    She was ying with me as though she was ying with a mouse.I gritted my teeth and gotup. I ignored the painin my backand thrustthe sword one more time. However, as soon as itapproachedthe ghost, she disappeared.


    I learned from experience this timeand pulledmy peach sword backward. I aimedagain. Still, I only reached the void. Before I could react, the ghost appeared above me. Her sharp, red fingernails dug into my neck, and blood spurted.


    I instinctivelyjerkedbackto avoid the fatal attack, then hacked the peach sword on her head.


    Afterthe ghostwashit, a wound appeared on her porcin skin. The area around the wound began to wither at a speed the naked eye could observe.


    I was strangely happy.Even if you can be young and beautiful again, youre just a dried corpse!


    With the previous two experiences, I didnt actively attack her. I was waiting for her to attack me first so that I could guessthedirection of the attack from her Yin energy. As a result, my peach wood sword hit her a few times,which gaveher wounds all over her body.


    I knew the peach sword would gradually lose its power.The next timeshe camenear me,I would use all of my strength to stab her one final time.


    However, the image of the sword piercing through her body didne true. The peach wood sword fumed ck smokeandbroke into pieces!


    At the same time, I saw countless female ghosts around me. They were identd all had strong Yin energy.


    I was stunnedas it wasnt a hallucination. Those were her clones!Ialready had difficulties dealingwith one ghost and now I guessed we all had to die here


    The moment I wanted to give up, white, dazzling light emitted next to us. At the same time, the ghost seemed to feel intimidating.She immediatelyretreated to the lectern.


    I turned and saw the Lance of God in Li Mazis hand. It was emitting ablinding white light.


    Zhang, Jesus Christis here to saveus! Thank God, my Lord!Marcowas so excited that he stammered.


    Then, he closed his eyesandsolemnlyreadsome verses of the Bible. As he was chanting faster and faster, the white light from the Lance of Godbecamemore dazzling.


    It seemed God was showing his power! Excitedly, I screamedandreceived the spear from Li Mazi, slowly walkingtoward the ghost.


    As I walked, my vision blurred out. A bearded, foreign man wearing a white gown appeared inmy mind. He brushed his garment with one hand whilehe held his otherhand in front of his chest. He smiledand noddedat me.


    Then, he turned into a dot of white lightand enteredthe Lance of God!


    My head wastingling.Then, my vision became clear again. My hand that was holding the Lance of God became much more agile. At the same time, the female ghost clones scattered. They fled as they had encounteredtheir nemesis.


    I was worried that theywould escape.


    My hand that was holding thence subconsciously rose, drawinga circle above my head.Then, a burning white light immediately expanded from the circle I had just drawn. The entire structure was covered in white light. All the clones felltothe ground,struggling.


    Marco chokedon his saliva because he was reading too fast. He had to stop for a while, which caused the white light in the church tosubside. The ghost seized the chanceand roaredbizarrely. Her clones gathered into oneand lungedtoward me. At the moment she was about to reach me, she turned into a floating, ck violin!


    The violin emitted an evil, magic power that made me shiver. I forgot to dodge the attack. Instinctively, I rose the Lance of God to parry. I knew I could stab her, but I would also be hurt.


    At the moment my life was at stake,Marcostarted to read the Bible verses again. I feltthepowerreturn to my body. However, there was no ghost in front of me but a purple-sparkling skeleton.


    I didnt even thinkand heldthence tighter, stabbing theskeleton. After a lowsound, my vision resumed to normal. The ghost now had a big, bleeding holein her chest. She lookedat her chest in disbelief. There was nounwillingness in her eyes,onlyendlessconfusion.


    Starting from the head, her entire body turned into ashes, scatteringwith the wind.


    Marcokept chanting since he was afraid that she wasnt gone yet. In my eyes, the scene changed again.


    In the middle of a sea of flowers, a beautifuldy was holding a violin. She was beamingsweetly at me. She waved, then turnedand disappearedinto the mesmerizingvender fields.


    You can stop reading. Shes gone,Isaid to Marco. We then left the Ghost Castle.


    After the ghost was gone, the people from the Longquan Vi mysteriouslydisappeared. I didnt know where theywentand I was toozy to track them down. Li Mazi and I spent the next few days withMarcoin Mn. Then, we headed home.


    Itisworth mentioningthat on thestnight I slept in the hotel, I dreamed of the beautiful European woman one more time. She held the violin and kept turning her head around to see. Every time, her pretty faceturnedrosier.


    I couldnt see the person behind her, but I knew it was a young man ying the violin.


    Paganini, I wish that youwillcherish the chance God has given you and treat your beloved well in heaven!

 Chapter 489: Serial Decapitation Case

    Chapter 489: Serial Decapitation Case


    When I returnedhome from Europe, the first thing I did was call Chuyi to ask if he needed help.


    Everythings solved. How are you? I asked.


    The Longquan Vi hastargetedus again. Do you know their purpose?


    Itmight just be a coincidence.


    Chuyi understood my idea, but he didnt think that the Longquan Vi had deliberately troubled us at once.If they did,the Zhang family in Jiangbei wouldnt stand still and watch.


    I thought itsoundedlogical. I didnt linger on this subject further. Isaid goodbye and hung up the phone.Afterward, I calledSenior Shu.


    Although this old man was despicable, he had saved mylifeat critical moments many times. Moreover, he was a member of the Zhang family, and he was from the same generationasmygrandfather. I had always considered and treated him as though he was mysenior. I was really worriedabout himsince he told me the enemy had found him andwentto his door.


    As soon as the linewentthrough,Senior Shus despicable voiceechoed.Hey grandson, why are you calling me?


    When I heardhis voice, I knewhe was safe. I exhaledand smiled. Old man, dont bully me.Do you want my grandpa tobeat you up?


    Then, I stopped smiling, and myvoicegrewserious. How are you doing? Do you need help?


    How am I doing? Oh well, they cant find me that easily. Also,its not simple for me to get rid of thempletely, soIvedecided to ignore them for now. I can enjoy my timetravelingduring this period.Senior Shusounded carefree and positive. I admired his boldness.


    Wechatted for a while.WhenI was about to hang up,Senior Shulowered his voice into a whisper. Hey kid, do you have free time these days?


    What? I frowned, thinking that he might entice me to ept a case.


    Old man, donttry to trickme.I was in so much troublethis timethatImlucky that I was able to returnhome safe and sound. I want to take a vacation for a while. I shook my headand was prepared to denywhatever he was about to talk me into doing.


    What are you talking about? You are Yaoyangs grandson, so youre not different from my grandson.Senior Shughedandtold me the story.


    A few days ago,duringhis escape, he had passed by Linzhang County in Hebei Province, where hecaught windof a strange case.


    A local man went outduring a heavysnowstorm to capture some wild hares, but he disappeared mysteriously,ing back home only three dayster.The night he returned,his wife and son were murdered, and their heads were chopped off. However,the manwasnt heart-broken. Heughed at the bodies and cursed as if the deceased were his enemies.


    All the vigers knew that he had disappeared for three days, and many peoplesuspected thathe had either encountered somethingfoul or waspossessed. Some said he was pretendingto losehis mind andthathe was the murderer.


    The police investigated the case. They confirmed thatthe man was in his right mindand that he wasnt theonewho massacred his wife and kid.


    Therewereno fingerprints found at the crime scene. The mans wife andchildlooked as if their headshad fallenoff their bodieson their own.


    Thepolice had no choice but toclosethe case. However, the masterfulSenior Shuseemed to sense something odd. He decided to stay in Linzhang County to observe.


    Indeed, in the next few days, the same mysterious decapitation cases happened again. The policetried their best,but they couldnt get a clue. Fortunately, they foundSenior Shu, who was also following the case.


    The two parties discussedthe matter.Chief Liu from the local Police Bureau askedSenior Shuto help them.


    Unexpectedly, as soon asSenior Shuepted this serial murder case, his enemy came.


    Jiulin, my grandson, Ive received the payment from the Police Bureau, so you have to make things right!What I mean is that you shouldsolve it nicely and neatly. I dont want mynameto betarnished!Senior Shusounded pitiful. However, his voice was more despicable than ever to my ears.


    I deliberately teased himand said in anangrytone,Yougot the money, but you wantmetodo the job for you? Oh well,I guessIm not going to take this case!


    Are you sure you dont want to take this case?Senior Shus voice showed a trace of threat.


    Oh well, I said Ididntwantit. What elsecould youdo to me?


    All right, soIllwork on this case myself. If the enemygetsme, lets see whowile to rescue you when yougetyourselfin trouble!


    Okay, Ill take it. Youre ruthless, old man! I said reluctantly. I was always helpless when I dealt with this despicable, childish grandpa. The only thing I could do was to agree with him.


    Senior Shugave me Chief Lius numberandtold me to contact him when I arrivedinLinzhang County.


    In ancient times of China, Linzhang County had been called Yecheng. It was the capital of the Wei Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms era. It was alsothe most lively and bustling city in the North. Unfortunately, after two thousand years, it gradually declined in importance. In modern times, it couldnt bepared to big cities like Beijing or Shanghai.


    SinceI hadagreed to help Senior Shu, I knew not to linger. I called Li Mazi to join me. Then, wedrove to Linzhang County.


    Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue wereSouthern women. As soon as they heard that we wanted to go to the North, they were stirred upand askedto go with us. They wanted to y with snow,makesnowmen, and throwsnowballs. In the end, I had to coax them that it was almost the New Year and that they should stay home to prepare forit.


    We arrived at Hebei at night. As the snow had stacked the entire road, we decided to stay there for one night.


    When wereachedthe hotel, I called Chief Liuand toldhim the reasonfor our arrival.He didnt sound happy when he heard that. He thought thatSenior Shucouldnt solve the case so he sent mea young apprentice of histo deceive him.


    However, as soon as I told him my achievements of helping the policesolvemysterious cases in otherparts of the country, he changed his attitude.


    Horrible murder cases like thehuman boneneandthe ancient painting were all recorded in the polices national archive, which Chief Liu couldessif he wanted to.


    After that, Chief Liu asked us te overimmediately.


    Im sorry, but were not familiar with the traffic here. Well depart in the morning.


    He was persistent.Please,Ill be waiting for you guys at the Bureau.


    Li Mazi and I had to drive through the night to the Police Bureau of Linzhang County.


    As soon as we got out of the car, a policeman in a coat with big eyes and thick browshurried to wee us.


    In an excited voice, he said,Youre finallyhere! If you didnte, I wouldntknow what to do!


    Who are you? Li Mazi snorted, pretending not toknow the man.


    From the police badge he was wearing, I knew he was Chief Liu. Li Mazi had asked that to vent out his dissatisfaction. I didnt stop him.


    Chief Liu was surprisedafter Li Mazi said that.


    Then, he embarrassedly introduced himself. I am Liu Zhangyi. Im the incumbent Chief Police of the LinzhangCountyPolice Bureau. On behalf of the people in Linzhang County, I would like to send my warm wee to you guys!


    Then, he extended one hand.


    I knew itwasenough. I smiledand gently shookhis hand. Otherworldly merchant Zhang Jiulin.


    Chief Liu thenledus to his office.Whenwe walked past the threshold,there wasa strong smell of burning coal.The corner of the room had an old coalstove that wasburning hard. Except for that, there were only a few chairs with backrests and apileof documentsstacked on a desk.


    Welivein a poor area, so we couldnt affordaheating system. Although its makeshift, its good to be able to work.


    Chief Liu invited us to have a seat,then drew a file from his deskand handedit to me. At first nce, I recognized itcontainedthe documents of the victims of the decapitation case. I read it carefully.


    The man thatSenior Shuhad told me aboutwas called Zhu Fengchun. His profile was cedon top.Apart fromhis familys case, there were three other simr cases. The second case was Wang Zhuangzhuang. At around twilight, he went to the Bronze Bird Terrace historic site to take some photos. He disappeared mysteriously. After a few days, hereturnedhome.The samenight, his head left his body.


    The third victim was called Li Tiansheng. Onhisway home from work, he unknowingly tripped himself.Thatnight, he was decapitated. The fourth victim was Zhang Yang. He was also beheaded. However, since he was an old bachelor, no one knew whathappenedtohim when he was still alive.


    After reading through the documents, I asked Chief Liu with a stern look, Besides these files,have you found anything else?


    The victims of all four cases had been beheaded. It wasnt hard to tell that there was one murderer behind all ofthis.Inthetter three cases, the victims were dead, soZhu Fengchunwasthe most important clue!


    Moreover, the other three were all killed, but he remained alive.This was very strange.


    However, from the documents the police had gathered, Zhu Fengchun had done nothing suspicious. They didnt arrange any cops to watch him, either.I suspected there was more to it.


    They were found deadintheirbeds.Weve inspected the scenes thoroughly and carefully. We didnt find anything. Not asingle clue. From the evidence at the scene, we haveruled outthe possibility of homicide. Unless


    When Chief Liu said that, his voice shiveredandhis face paled.


    I opened my arms. So, the threetter victims were dead, and only Zhu Fengchuns alive.Haventyouthoughtabout sending some men to watch him?


    After talking, I stared at Chief Liu. However, his eyes were calm. I didnt see any change.It didnt look like he was hiding anythingfrom me. I didnt understand it, so I asked himdirectly.


    We did watch him. However, after the homicide in his home, he hasntlefthis house.He only goes out to buy food, and he goes home right after that. Weve made random and sudden stops athis house. Everythingseemednormal. Then, three more incidents happened afterward. We dont have enough men in the station, so wehad to summon them backThen, Chief Liu suddenlyrealized something. He dropped his jaw in shockand lookedat me. Youmean,Zhu Fengchun is the murderer?


    He may not be the murderer, but hessurelyconnected tothe murder. Otherwise, he wouldnt have survived until now.


    Afterward, I insisted that Chief Liu take us to Zhu Fengchuns house. He agreedand noddedcontinuously. Then, he went out to take the police car.


    I thought for a moment, then told him not to do that. We should take our car!The police car is eye-catching. When we enter the vige, we could rm the others.


    ording to my experience and intuition, I was certain that Zhu Fengchun had something to do with the three murder cases that happened after his familys case. Although the police had checked his house a few times, they found nothing. It could be because the police car had exposed them.


    Chief Liu noddedand appraisedme. You are really smart!


    Igave a slight smile, then closedmy eyes to rest for a while.


    There was a thickyer of snow on the road, which was rather dangerous. Chief Liudrove carefully. I thought itwould be much faster if we left the car and walked there ourselves. Fortunately, Zhu Fengchuns house was inasuburban area. We arrived there after half an hour.


    As he was an experienced cop, as soon as we reached the vige, Chief Liu quietly turned off the cars heamps. Using his senses andintuition, he drove the car forward.


    It waste at night, and the entire vige wasshroudedin darkness. The sky wasgray, and the moon and stars were covered by the clouds.


    When we reached the vige, the dogs at the vige entrance began to bark. However, thehowls from the strong windsubsided the barks.


    Chief Liu pointed at a house that had lights on. Thats Zhu Fengchuns house.


    Then, he opened the door of the car.It was very cold outside, and the wind billowedour clothes. Ipulledmy jacket close to my bodyand got out of thecar after him.


    When we got there, Inoticedthat it was a blue brick house. I couldnt helpbut furrowmy brows.


    Li Mazi asked,Whats wrong?


    Whatera are we living in? They still use blue bricks to build houses!Its nowonder hes provoked something foul.Icouldalmostconcludethat this serial decapitation case wasnt caused byahuman. Itwasrted to something foul.


    After the Chinese Economic Reform, the structuresthroughout China werebuilt with red bricks. There werent many peoplethat chose to build their homes withblue bricks.


    Speaking ofpractical aspects, blue bricks were more durableasthey resisted corrosion better than red brick. The ancient proverb that mentioned bricks from Qin and tiles from Han, referred to the blue bricks. So,why didpeoplechooseto use red bricks?


    The blue bricks had Yinproperties. Thatwaswhy Chinese people often used blue bricks or stone bs to build tombs or graves. The old houses built with blue bricks would possibly be a new,fortableir for the wandering ghosts to dwell and cultivate in.


    Zhu Fengchuns house was made of blue bricks,which wasabad sign. However, his house didnt look old, so why did something so powerfulstart to live there?

 Chapter 490: Killing People in Dreams

    Chapter 490: Killing People in Dreams


    With that thought, Inced intothe room,realizingthat Zhu Fengchun hadnt slept yet. He was standing quietly in his room, holding a candle.


    I was certain that it was Zhu Fengchun.Still, what kind of normal personwould standin the living room with a lit candle in his hand instead of sleeping?


    I didnt hesitateto askLi Mazi to pick the lock. At the same time, I asked Chief Liu to prepare to barge into the house.


    Li Mazis lock-picking skill wastop-notch. Zhu Fengchuns house wasequippedwith an old-style locking system thatconsisted oftwo locks. Thissortof lockhad beenpopr in the countryside for years. Li Mazi opened the first lock easily. Then, he saw the second lock.


    The door slit allowed him to worm one hand into the house. However, to open this lock, he would need two hands. Li Mazi was puzzledand rubbedhis headto thinkofa solution.


    AsLi Mazi was opening the lock, Chief Liu asked me, Did you see something?


    I nodded.Im sure Zhu Fengchuns not normal. Ithinktheres something foul in the room with him.


    Whatdowe do?Should Ishoot him? Chief Liu directlytook outhis pistol. He was panicked.


    No, dont shoot. Were here to check the situation. We betternot lethim recognize us. If he sees us, wellhave toleave quickly. If we provoke that thing, itmight hauntus as well.


    As soon as I finished, we heard a crackle. The final lock was opened. Li Mazi had used only one hand and hisgut feelingto open it. I gave him a thumbs-up!


    At the same time,thevoice of a middle-aged man arose from the room. It seemed someone was talking.


    I carefully pushed the doorand triedmy best to not make it squeak.Unexpectedly, before the door was fully opened, a loud noise resounded by my feet. Iloweredmy head to check, and it was a beer bottlecedat the door.It seemedZhu Fengchun had deliberately set it up!


    Sincewe were exposed, I didnt eventryto hide. I strode into the room. At the same moment, thecandlelightextinguished.


    Everything went dark in the room, andI vaguely saw a shadowlungefast in front of me. Right after that, Li Mazi and Chief Liu entered the house. Chief Liu hadthe moves of a professional. As soon as hewentin, he turned on the light.


    I cursed under my breathas the light wouldcover upthe otherworldly itemsYin energy. However, I wasnt fast enough to stop Chief Liu. The only thing I could do was use my intuition to look at the direction the shadow had run away. It was the bed.


    A middle-aged man was tucked under a thick quilt,yinginthe bed. It seemed he was the real Zhu Fengchun.


    Zhu Fengchun slowly got up. He rubbedhis eyes andlookedat us. He looked as if he was awakened by our intrusion.


    At first, he shot me a hostile look. Then, his gaze turned to Chief Liu, who was standing behind me. His face stiffened. Chief Liu, whyhaveyou intrudedintomy house?


    We workby therules. Before the serial murder case is solved, weve got the right to do a sudden house check to support the investigation.


    Chief Liu shot me a nce, andI gave him a secret nod. While he was talking with Zhu Fengchun, I turned around and quicklyputtwo drops of ox tears into my eyes. Then, I moved to the window and looked back to the room. There was a mass of ck mist hoveringthere.It was dispersingquickly under the light.


    Thisproved my eyes werent ying tricks on me. My eyes moved along the trajectory of the ck mist. Eventually, I saw ithead towardZhu Fengchuns bed.


    There was no Yin energy on the bed, butthe moment the light was switched on, Isawthe shadowrushtoward the bed!


    Is it attachedto Zhu Fengchun?


    With this thought, Isecretlytook out a spirit talismanand hidit in mypalm, slowly approachingZhu Fengchun.


    He seemed to recognize my move and retreated. He cautiously asked,What do you want to do?


    I didnt mind himand strodeforward. I suddenly jumped and directly tagged the talisman on Zhu Fengchuns forehead.


    Are youfreakingcrazy? What did you stick on my head?! Zhu Fengchun was stunnedbymyaction. He was in a daze for a while before he pulled himself together. He cursed loudlyand torethe talisman off his forehead. Then, he crumpledit andthrewittothe ground.


    His voice and facial expression didnt change beforeorafter Istuckthe talisman on his head. I didnt see anything foul being expelled from him, either. I frowned.


    Im sorry for bothering you. I put on an emotionless faceand apologized to ZhuFengchun. Then, Ileft the house withLi Mazi and Chief Liu.


    Right aswewalkedthrough the door, Zhu Fengchun scolded loudly,What the heck is good aboutthepolice? Youfreakingmess with people! Im going to report you!


    Until we reached our car, I hadnt figured where that shadow had gone. How could it disappear just like that,without leaving anytraces of Yin energy?


    LittleBrother Zhang, why do youhave that expression? Li Mazi was concerned about me.


    Thisthing were dealing with isnt ordinary. I sighedandtold themaboutthe situation.


    Perhaps you justdidnt see clearly. We rushed into the house right asthe candlelight extinguished. Even if that thing could disappear intheblink of an eye, Zhu Fengchun couldnthave reachedhis bed in just a short time. He didnt even makeanoise.


    Chief Liu sounded logical. However, I didnt think thatit was a hallucination. I asked them to leave firstasIwanted togoback there tocheck onZhu Fengchunagain.


    No! You shouldnt!


    Li Mazi rejected my idea without a bit of hesitation. Chief Liu alsovoiced his opinion.If that thingsso dangerous,you shouldbecautious.Why dont we halthere? We can startwiththe other cases.


    I thought, then asked,Chief Liu,cremation isnt popr in this area, right? Do you know where the threeothervictims were buried?


    Do you want to open their coffins to check their bodies? Chief Liu was stunned.


    If we cant find any clues, wellhave to do that! I said boldly.I thought abouthow creepyZhu Fengchunlooked when he was holdingthe candle.


    Whenwe had returned to the Police Bureau, Chief Liu arranged two rooms for me and Li Mazi.The rooms werededicated to the leaders of the Police Bureau to rest. Normally, no one would stay here, so the rooms were rtively clean.


    The onlyproblemwas that they had to use coal to keep the rooms warm, which left a strong smell in the room. I didnt want to close the window since I was afraid of poisoning myself. But whenever I opened the window,acold wind howledand rushedinto the room.


    I hesitated as I didnt dare to y with my life. In theend,I pushed the window slightly open. It was good that the nket was thick enough. Not long after I had tucked myself in the bed, I fell asleep.


    I didnt know how long I had slept,butI suddenly felt as if I was suffocating. My head felt like dough and my chest felt heavy. Instinctively, I opened my mouth to gasp for air. I took in a mouthful of cold air, which sent a chillstraightto my heart.


    Fortunately,it also cleared my mind. My first thought was that I was poisoned by carbon monoxide. Thatwaswhy I was struggling to breathe.However, the air felt so cold, so how could I get carbon monoxide poisoning?


    Before I could figure out the situation, I felt waves ofair onmy neck, just as ifsomeone was looming over me and blowing his breathonme.


    Inadvertently, I remembered the shadow I had encountered in Zhu Fengchuns houseandshivered.


    I hurried tobitethe tip of my tongue. My mobilityreturned, and my eyes shot open. I then saw a shadow sitting on the edge of my bed.


    Itwas holding a bloodysword.In the end,ithadehere!


    While I was bewildered, the shadow guffawed strangely. Both ofitshandswieldedthesword, hackingat my neck.


    It seemed the previous victims were decapitated like this!


    At thest minute, I suddenly remembered I had seen a hand mirror on the bed. Iquicklygrabbed itand showedit to the ck shadow.


    The shadow screechedanddisappeared, and the pressure on my chest slowly subsided.I got up and found my back soaked with sweat. Moreover, I had usedtoo muchstrengthearlier, which resulted inasore neck.


    I checked myself in the mirror. There was asmallcut on my neck. If I had beente by just for a second, my head would have beenchopped off.


    At thismoment, I heard the noise ofsomeonestruggling from the room next door. Li Mazi and Chief Liu would bethe ck shadowsnexttargets!I jumped off my bedand ranto Li Mazis room with the mirror in my hand. I didnt even put my puffer jacket on.


    Through the window, I saw the ck shadowraisethe sword, readyto chop off Li Mazis head. Li Mazis body was wiggling, trying toescapeatthest moment.


    The locktothe room was simple, soI forcefully kickedthe dooropen. As soon as I got into the room, I shone the mirror at the shadow. The shadows eyes turned crimson. It shot me a furious nce before leaving unwillingly.


    When I was about to go to Chief Lius room to wake him up, I saw him running toward us with a pistol in his hand.Hewas awakened when I kicked the door.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Now, I was even more afraid of the ck shadow.


    What kind of cewasa Police Bureau? Itwasthew enforcement body of the government. It representedjustice and righteousness. A ce like thishadstrong natural Yang energy. At the same time, itwasprotected by thegods.


    Tonight, that shadow hade and left easily. Washea member of the imperial court when he was alive?


    Chief Liu waved his handto showthat he was going back to sleep as I hadnt said anything for quite a long time. When he told me hewas going tohis room to sleep, I suddenly realized something and screamed, Ivegot it!


    LittleBrother Zhang, what did youdiscover?askedLi Mazi.Chief Liu alsowalked over.


    Li Mazi and I were attacked while we were sleeping. Chief Liu rushed herebecausehe heard the noise. Ashewasntasleep,he wasnt attacked.


    Moreover, the four previous victims were killed while they were in their beds!


    Thiswasnt a coincidence. The ck shadow could only kill people while they were sleeping. To verify myguess, I asked Chief Liu, Did you know where Zhu Fengchun was sleeping at the time the murder happened?


    He was drunk and fell asleep on his table. I had that written in my document,saidChief Liu.


    I nodded. Its true, then.That day, Zhu Fengchun didnt sleep in his bed. Thats why he dodged thistribtion!


    Awesome! If you didnt tell me, I wouldnt have noticed this. We are the police, but we arent as sensitive as you, an antique merchant!


    Chief Liu gave me a thumbs-up. Li Mazi also took the opportunity to praise me. However, I still felt that something was strange. If Zhu Fengchun had dodged his deathbecausehe was sleeping on the table that day, whywasnt hekilled the following days?


    Moreover, we saw the ck shadow in his house tonight.


    We have to go back there to see! Otherwise,Zhu Fengchunmightbe killed!My scalpwent numb. I didnt have more time to exin.After puttingon thick clothes, I pulled the other twoand rushedto Zhu Fengchuns house.

 Chapter 491: Dismembering

    Chapter 491: Dismembering


    On the way there, I told Li Mazi and Chief Liu my assumption.


    What if Zhu Fengchun is dead when wearrive? asked Li Mazi.


    He can only me himself. We went to his house,but he scolded usandaskedus to leave!cursedChief Liu.


    However, he still showed his care forZhu Fengchun. I saw the responsibility of a policeman on his face.


    If hes dead, well need to findclues from the threeotherdead bodies. But if hes not dead yet


    I paused, my voice growing colder. Hes the murderer!


    I hadnt seen the real face of the shadow thus far, butconsideringthesword, I guessed he wasan otherworldlyspirit.


    Ghosts didnt have weapons. Onlyotherworldlyspirits hadthem, and most of the time, the weapons were the otherworldly items they were hiding in.It was the same principle behindLu Bus spirit usingthe Sky Piercer.


    A spirit could live together with humans under some special conditions. Since Zhu Fengchun had survived until then, it was possible that he had some agreement with thespirit. They could have the same nature, or it was simply because of the benefits the other party could provide.


    Thatwaswhy I had assumed that Zhu Fengchun wasnt a good man. To avoid being noticed, I asked Chief Liu to stop the car before we entered the vige. Then, I asked them to keep at a distance while I ran alone to Zhu Fengchuns,climbingover his wall.


    I wanted to check the situation inside the house from the fence wall.However,my hands felt stickyas soon as I touched the wall.


    I turned on my phonesshlight;the fence wall was covered in blood. I was certain that it had just happenedas there wasnt anything on the wall on ourst visit.


    I had a really bad premonition. I hurried anddirectlyjumped into the yard,kickingZhu Fengchuns door openandswitchingon the lights.


    Then, I saw Zhu Fengchuns bed soaked with red blood. The wall next to the bed and the floor were covered with pieces of flesh, including human internal organs.


    I immediately felt my stomachtwitch andcouldnt help but retch.


    Li Mazi and Chief Liu also entered the ce.Their faces changed dramatically whentheysaw the interior of the room, and they almostmovedin unison to squat downand puke.


    After a long time passed, Li Mazi wiped his mouth and said with apale face,LittleBrother Zhang, this is so freaking scary! Should we


    He didnt finish his sentence, but the point he was trying to makewas clear. This murderous otherworldly item wasnt something we could handle.


    Chief Liu wasalso scared senseless. Should weclosethe case?Suspect Zhu Fengchun feared the punishment for his crime, and he killed himself in his house bysetting off the gas


    Enough! I rudely interrupted Chief Liu.


    With a red face, I pointed at his nose andscolded him. Havent you realized it yet? When that shadow kills people, it doesnt care about who the victim is. We came here to check and itter chased us all the way to the Police Bureau. Whatabout the others? More people will be killed in this little city if we dont deal with this evil thing!


    After venting all of my anger, I sat downand continued with a weak voice,You guys shouldnt get involved. Im going to solve this by myself! That things really intimidating. You dont need to take risks.


    Nonsense! Since whenhave Iditched you? Li Mazi stepped in andpattedmy shoulder.No matter what, Im your brother. Youhaven''tmarried YinXinyue yet, soI have tokeep you safe.


    I was surprised.I didnt know what to tell him at themoment.


    Li Mazi grinned. If you want to deal with it, your brother will join you!


    Im sorry, the recent shock left me on edge. If you arent afraid of it,why shouldI, someonewith the national emblem on his chest,be afraid?Chief Liu produced his pistol, cursing through his gritted teeth,Lets go!


    I looked at them while shing a silly smile.


    Chief Liu called the police andrequested his men to check thecrime scene and pick up thedismemberedcorpse.Then, weprepared to go back and sleep. We would go to the ce where they had buried the three other victims afterwe woke up.


    However,we noticed a person hiding in a cornerwhen we left Zhu Fengchunshouse. He ran away when he sawus.


    His footsteps wereclearly audible. Apparently, he was a living person!


    Li Mazi and I had been able tosurvive untilnowthanks to our reaction speed. We immediately started to chase after the man,knockinghim down in a minute.


    Little Quail, why are you here in the middle of thenight?


    Chief Liuced the pistol back in his holster when he sawthe other mansface. He exined to us that the man was one of thelocals. He was a little thief, which had earned him the nicknameLittle Quail.Little Quailwasnt really that badof a person.


    Little Quailhesitated for a long time before stammering, II went out to pee and saw brother Zhu ashe was leaving the house. I thought about going to his house to steal something sinceno one was home. You see,I lost a bet andowesome money.


    I was bewildered by this revtion.Zhu Fengchun had gone out!In that case,to whom did the minced flesh in his roombelong?


    After answeringus,Little Quailtook the chance and ran awaysince nobody was holding him. It seemed he was scared of being taken to the station.


    Chief Liu didnt care about himashe was stillout of sorts.What do you think? Whatreallyhappened?


    Li Mazi gulped his saliva, turning to take another nce at Zhu Fengchuns house. Hecouldnt utter a word as he also wasfrightened.


    The blood on thefence wall and the bedroom was still fresh. The person whohad been turned intominced meat inside the house had just been killed. I thought for a moment and decided that we should arrest Zhu Fengchun first. I wanted to see how hewould exinhimself! Not minding being noticed anymore, I asked Chief Liu to drive the car andchaseafter the other party. Unexpectedly, the road in this vigewas halfway done, and it turned into a muddy path after crossing thesmallbridgeoutside the vige.


    Chief Liucarelesslydrove the car into a ditch. The car leaned to one side and almost flipped. When I got out of the car and was about to push it, Iheard a rattlingnoise in thecornfieldon one side of the path.


    They had already harvested the corn ears, andall the corn nts hadwithered and dried upafter a rainy autumn. I could see through the cornfield easily, anda person with his back to us was moving throughit.


    I subconsciously screamed,Zhu Fengchun! Freeze!


    Except for him, who would y around at midnight in this ce?


    The running person halted for a moment. Then, he dashed even faster. Luckily for us, the ce was somewhat empty, so we could catch up with him easily. That personturned out to beLittle Quail!


    Chief Liu wasin his forties, and he was exhausted after running.He panted as hescolded,Damn you,Little Quail, do you want to be jailed or what?


    No, no, no, no! Chief Liu, what do you want, Sir?


    While he ranted, I noticed howLittle Quailinadvertently touched his butt.


    My heart sank as Iscreamed,Watch out!


    Li Mazi, who was about to pass by him, became vignt as he heard me screaming. Chief Liu also pulled himself together.Little Quaillooked at mein puzzlement.


    Who are you? Ishouted with a cold tone while I moved closer toLittle Quail. Oneof my hands was alreadygrabbing the spirit talismanI kept in my pocket.


    I knew something was wrong at firstnce.We immediately drove to this ce after we left Zhu Fengchunshouse.Little Quailcouldnt have possibly outrun us to hide in this cornfield. It was really strange.


    Moreover, I had noticed that his clothes were different from whathe was wearingthest moment we had seenhim.There was something fishy about him!


    Chief Liu reactedimmediately. He movedcloserand ced the muzzle of his pistol onLittle Quails forehead. Heasked him,Who the heck are you?


    Little Quailwas flustered because of the pistol ced against his head. Heknelt and poundedhis head onto the ground. Chief Liu, I didnt kill him. I didnt kill anybody


    I then recognized that he had a walletin hisback pocket, which was apparentlyloaded withcash. I opened the wallet and saw Zhu Fengchuns ID.It seemedLittle Quailhad stolen his wallet.


    He kept pounding his head on the snowy ground as heaskedus to forgive him. The fear in his eyeswasreal. Moreover, he was shivering hard while imploring.


    LittleBrother Zhang, do youthink this kids pretending? Li Mazipouted his lips, showing open disdain for Little Quail.


    I refrained from responding, onlytakinga deep breath. Then, I turned tocheckLittle Quail. His three Yang mes seemed to be burning hard inside his body, meaning that he wasall right. I exhaled, then shot Li Mazi and Chief Liu a look to calm them down. IredatLittle Quandasked. Youd better tell the truth, or youll be charged withmurder! Understand?


    Yes,Sir, I understand


    Little Quailnodded, then stammered as he shared the story with us.

 Chapter 492: Body Swapping

    Chapter 492: Body Swapping


    It turned out Zhu Fengchun had received some money from people who went to his wife and sons funeral. Little Quail also knew thisandwas tempted. He wanted to take the opportunityto steal itbefore Zhu Fengchun deposited the money into his bank ount.Buthewas met withthat horror scene as soon as he entered Zhu Fengchuns house.


    However, luck favored him. The wallet full of money was ced on the table. Little Quail hesitated for a while, then he clenched his jaw and stole it. After that, he started thinkingthat he would be medfor the murder. Thatwaswhy he decided to run away from the vige.


    Chief Liulookedat him for a moment. In the end, hesaidreluctantly, You little brat, you want money more than your own life!


    He didnt mind the little thief anymore. Heaskedme, Did you find anything?


    Zhu Fengchun canno longerholdback. Hell make a move soon, so we should wait for him. I remembered the bloody bedroom and felta little down.


    The one who tricked usjust now must beZhu Fengchun. He had deliberately allowedLittleQuail to stealhis wallet todistractus.


    But where hasZhuFengchun gone?I thought I would receive the answer soon.


    I didnt want tosay toomuch with Little Quail stillthere, so we let him go.


    Where shouldwe go now? asked Chief Liu.


    I lifted my head to look at the gray sky, then I asked,Do you know where they buried the threeothervictims? Which one is the nearest to us?


    Chief Liu answered after thinking for a moment, Li Tianshengs grave is the nearest because he lived in the next town.


    Take me there. We have to go now, I said.


    Eh? Chief Liuwas puzzled but still followed my order.


    I asked him to stop the car the momentwe arrivedinthe small town. We then tiptoed toLi Tianshengs grave.


    Being the incumbent head of theBureau, Chief Liu did have somepetence to back his position. Although he had ghere only once when they investigated the case and collected the evidence, he was still able to lead us all the way tothislond.


    Southern people would choose to cremate the deceased, while Northern people preferred tobury themin thend of their families. That was why the graves werent centralized in this area.


    Thislondisachannelthatpeople created to discharge the waters when the great flood happened in 1998. The n wastoconnectitto the Zhang River.However, people forgot the purpose of this channfter the flood, and they started to grow crops here. Back then, many graves were ttened whiledigging this channel. Thats why you onlysee Li Tianshengstombstonehere. Chief Liu provided us with additional information.


    Hethenpointed at a locationwhereI saw a new grave. There was no de of grass on it, and since the burial ceremony hadnt been a long time ago, the money paper and the flowers were still there.At first nce, my face turned serious.Things weren''tthe way I had imagined.


    Whats wrong? asked Chief Liu.


    I shook my head. The situation isnt right. We need to take abetterlook.


    Suddenly, Li Mazi grabbed my arm andpointedata spota few meters away from thetombstone. Hewhispered,LittleBrother Zhang, look at that!


    I followed his finger. There was a big hole around two meters wide there.I couldnt estimate how deep that hole was due to the fardistance, soI wanted to go there to see.However,someone coughed before I made a move, and the sound came from that hole.


    Shssss!


    Iimmediately crouched, signaling Li Mazi and Chief Liu to be quiet. Then, we carefully crawled forward.


    Thecoldwind was howling loudly, soI wasnt worried about the person in the hole noticingourmovements above ground.I pricked my ears and listened carefully when we reached the hole.The person down there was panting hard, and thevoice apparently belonged to Zhu Fengchun. He seemed to bemovingsomething inside while gasping for his breath.


    Istopped myself from rushing forwardas Ilistenedto his monologue. Brother, Im also helpless.Dont look for me if you doe back.


    Then, I noticed his voicewas bingclearer and clearer. It seemed he was climbing up. I rushed to hide behindthetombstone;Chief Liu and Li Mazi also came to my side.


    Not even a minute had passedwhen a shadow crawled out of the hole. I opened my eyes wideasit was really Zhu Fengchun!


    He was holding a shovel in his hand.He checked the surroundings after he gotup and beganto fill the hole. Once hewas done, he stomped around topact the soil and left.


    I waiteduntil he hadpletely disappeared, thenI slowly got up, sneering asIlookedin his direction.


    Looks likehedugthegrave for somereason. But whydid he have to do it in the middle of the night? Moreover, he left without taking anything Chief Liuwas puzzled.


    Youll see soon enough, I said.


    I thenrubbed my hands and prepared to dig thegraveagain. It was easier since the other party had just moved the soil. The three of us didnt need to exert a lot ofefforttodig upthece. All of it was done inthirty minutes.


    I turned on the shlight to check.Therewas a coffin painted in ck inside,and all of the coffins nails had been pulled up.


    I directly pulled out the nails the rest of the way and pushed the coffin lid aside. Icranedmy neck to see, but there was nothing inside!


    Li Tianshengs body was gone!


    W-What the heck is going on?


    Chief Liu looked at the empty coffin, feeling bewildered. But he soonunderstood. Was the minced flesh in Zhu Fengchunshouse


    Definitely.I nodded.


    The body that had beenhorriblydestroyed in Zhu Fengchuns bedroom wasLi Tianshengs corpse. The spirit had manipted Zhu Fengchun to deceive us, making him stealLi Tianshengs body, toterchop it into pieces. No doubt their purpose was to make us think that Zhu Fengchun had died.


    However,Zhu Fengchun hadnt had enough time to clean his mess afterdismembering the body. Thatwaswhy we had been able to witness therecent scene.


    What should we do now?


    Chief Liu sounded a little embarrassed. Theincident that happenedtonight was too odd.Although he was an experienced cop, he was actinglike an elementaryschool student that kept asking questions whenever hewas introuble.


    Its simple! If he wants to fake his death,let him do it.Tomorrow, we will announce that Zhu Fengchunhasdied. You shouldnt send your men here to investigate,Ill keep an eye on himmyself. I want to know what his ultimatepurpose is.


    How canthe policehelp you? Chief Liuasked.


    I think you should send people to protect the other two graves! I have a feeling that Zhu Fengchun will set his eyesonthem.


    Okay. Chief Liu agreed immediately.I asked Li Mazi to stay with Chief Liu after considering that the policemenheremight have never encounteredparanormal activities before. I wouldwatch Zhu Fengchun alone.


    It was almost dawn when we returned to the police stationand fesleep. In the afternoon, the police announced that they had found Zhu Fengchun murdered in his house; his case was closed just like that.


    At twilight, Li Mazi and Chief Liu took with them twocapablecopseachandwent to the graves of the other two victims. I prepared my spirit talismans and a small mirror,starting to lurkbehind the big tree opposite Zhu Fengchuns back door.


    Thest light in the vige went out as the moonlight started to getbrighter. The entire vige was shrouded in darkness, but the white snow on the ground was somewhat illuminating the ce. This scene looked exactly like one taken from a horror movie.


    I pulled my clothes tightas Ilookedaround. I focused all my attention onZhu Fengchunsblue brick house.


    A light source appeared inside the house at around 11:00 PM. I reacted fast, lifting my head to see. Acandle had been lit up in the room, and a shadow was moving around the candle.


    It was exactly the sameasthe first time we came here. After hesitating for a while, I decided to go in there to check. However,the candle in the room went outas soon as I walked past the big tree.


    I thought I had been busted at first. Then, the houses door sprang open with a loud bang. The shadow flew out.


    It seemed that he hadnt seen me yet. I exhaled in relief and continued watching him.


    The shadow wore ck,silk garments of ancient cut, and hehelda sword that gaveout abloodylight.He wielded his sword while he walked.I saw his face when hegotcloser, and it wasso dark!


    If he hadbeen wearingaturban, I would have thought he wasMr. Popo.Moreover, hisbig,dark face was full of anger. While gliding away, he seemed to bescolding someone, orsomething. I couldnt hear anything since his voice was too low.

 Chapter 493: The Seven Star Sword

    Chapter 493: The Seven Star Sword


    When the shadow reached the intersection, I was still hesitating whether to follow it or not.


    Suddenly, I heard some noisesing from Zhu Fengchuns house. I turned and saw the candle had been relitin the room. Moreover, there was another shadow.


    Whats going on? Whyare theretwoshadows?


    Soon after, I noticed that the shadow in the room was fake. There was no wisp of Yin energy around it. It seemed thatZhu Fengchun had deliberately impersonated the shadow.


    I was curious, soI went there andstraight offkicked the door open. At first nce, I spotted Zhu Fengchun pretending to be a ghost.


    I turned the light on and red at him.


    Just as I hadthought, the man hadfakedhis death.He should have been frightened since I hadexposedhim, buthe acted as though he had already knownI would gothere.


    He smiled, but his eyeswere seriousas helookedat me. Ifeverything went ording to the n, your two friendsmust bedead by now. Hahaha


    What do you mean? As IlookedatZhu Fengchuns face, I was deeplyworried about Li Mazi and Chief Liu.


    But the shadow had just left, so it couldnt catch up with the other two so quickly. I turned and yelled at Zhu Fengchun, Who are you trying toscare?


    Haha, yesterday, while you were digging up LiTianshengs coffin, I tookthe souls of the twoothervictims there. They saw what you did, Zhu Fengchunughed and continued,Do you think your friends can survive tonight if they guard the two graves?


    I waspletelydumbfounded. It turned out he had deliberatelyshownus that scenest night. He wanted to make us dig the three gravesso thatthe souls of the victims would think that we were trying to harm them!


    They were ghosts that had been killed before their time. With this grudge, their resentful energy would help them be evil souls soon. Li Mazi and the otherswerein grave danger!


    IhurriedtocallLi Mazi, butZhu Fengchun tried to stop me.


    Damnyou!I punched him right in the face as Iclenchedmyteeth.


    The situation was now clear. Zhu Fengchun had joined hands with that spirit. He had made a scene to trick me intogoing tohis house, giving the spirit a chance to run away.


    I had no idea where thespirit hadescapedto.


    Anyway, calling Li Mazi and Chief Liu was more urgent. Zhu Fengchun seemed to be unafraid of pain. He clung onto meto prevent me from makingthe call.


    I didnt know how many times I had punched him already, but my handached, andhis facelooked like that of a pig. Still, he didnt let go of me. He stuck onto me like a sticker. In the end, I had no choice but hit his nape to knock himout.


    I then called Li Mazi. The line wentthrough right away.


    How is it going? asked Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi, listen up.Cancel the n for tonight, right now! You and Chief Liu should return to the Police Bureau and wait for me there, I replied with a stern voice.


    Hold on, Li Mazi lowered his voice as if he were afraid that people could hear him. LittleBrother Zhang, I think somethings wrong with Chief Liu. Just a moment ago, he resolutely asked me to go to the Bronze Bird Terrace. I asked him why, but he didnt answer. Do you think he


    Li Mazis voice shivered. It seemedhe had realizedsomething.


    Are you sure?


    Li Mazi almost cried, Im sure!


    TheBronze Bird Terrace was the ce Wang Zhuangzhuangthe second victimhad visited to take some photos before hewaskilled.


    Chief Liu was certainly possessed by Wang Zhuangzhuangs ghost. If it wanted to guide Chief Liu and Li Mazi to the Bronze Bird Terrace, there should be some clue in that ce.


    I gulped my saliva, making my tone firm and calm. In that case, youshould follow him. You have topretend that you know nothing. Ill alsoheadto theBronze Bird Terrace.


    All right, hurry up!


    After talking, Li Mazi hung up.


    I took a look at the fainted Zhu Fengchun, then searchedfor the BronzeBird Terrace using the map applicationon myphone. The Bronze Bird Terrace site was on the North side of the Zhang River,less thanfivekilometers away from Wang Zhuangzhuangs grave. I, on the other end, was close to twenty kilometers away from there.


    As they were driving, despite the rough road, it would take them fifteen minutes at most to get there. Ihad no way tocatch up withthem.


    I found some candles and joss sticks in Zhu Fengchuns drawerand hadan idea.


    I opened the door and all the windows. Then, I lit up a candle on the floor and burned some joss sticks. I bit my finger till it bled and used my blood to draw a simple Eight Diagrams sketcharound the candle. I thenused a strip of red cloth with my bloodsmearedon it to tie my legs. After preparing everything, I closed my eyes and readaspell to beckonaspirit.


    It was a spell grandpa had taught me. I could use my blood as anofferingand usean ancient divination skillto control the wandering wild ghosts nearby for a short time. I could make them guide me to the ce I wanted to go.


    InWater Margin,Dai Zongthe Magic Travelercould travel five hundred miles away usingthis magic technique.


    However, this spellwas dangerous. If the caster didnt have a strong cultivation base, the wandering ghosts he invited could wound him or even kill him. Thatwaswhy I had never used it before. But asthe situation was urgent,I decided to use it despite my hesitation.


    As soon as I read the spell, the air began to circte around me. Instantly, the ce where I was standing became a vacuum. Acoldwind rushed in from the outside, swirling around me.


    Everything had happened inthe blink of an eye. Before I could react, my legs felt quitelight asthey began to run without my control.


    While running, I opened my eyeswide, looking at the sceneryin front of me quicklymovingpast me. I stopped worrying when I had finally adapted to the situation. I was curious at the moment. What kind of spirit did Iinvite?


    I really wanted to know, so I lowered my head a little bit to see.I was riding on a red shadow, which was moving at atremendous speed.


    The red shadow seemed to havesensedme looking at him. He turned and looked back at me.


    It was a face full of maggots with a nose turned up high. His eyes were uneven in size. The bigger one was shimmering with green light, bulging like a ball. Although both eyes looked human, they were oozing blood.


    The spirit eyed me, smilingat me. I triednot tovomit,grittingmy teeth andnoddingat him. Then, I closed my eyes, not daring to look at him a second time. After around five minutes, I felt that my body was slowly sinking. Then, both of my feetfirmlnded on the ground.


    When I opened my eyes, the spirit I had invited was gone, and the blood on the fabric stripe I had used to tie my legs had beensucked dry.


    He seemed to be a nice spirit that had only enjoyed the blood and joss sticks I had offered. He meant no harm to me.


    I didnt have time to care much about that spirit. I turned andcheckedthe ce. Soon, I saw a majestic structure in front of me. The terrace was animposing construction that facedthe famous Zhang River.


    Rumors said that Cao Cao had collected beauties in the country and kept them in the Bronze Bird Terrace. Moreover, he liked to gather with groups of literati to drink and make poems there. There was a famous verse that said: IftheEast wind didnt favor General Zhou, theBronze Bird Terrace would have kept the Qiao sisters locked.


    Although the Bronze Bird Terrace in front of me had been rebuilt byter generations and the water of the Zhang River was frozen, I could stillfeelCao Caos extravagancefrom thoseyears.


    I looked around and saw nocars. It seemed thatChief Liu and Li Mazi would get therein a few minutes. I stood up andattemptedto run across the frozen Zhang River to reach the Bronze Bird Terrace.


    However, right when I was about to step on the Bronze Bird Terrace, I heard a sigefrom thetop.


    Thedeepvoice lingered in thecoldnight. Although it was just a sigh, I could feel the endless grief it carried.


    Before I could move, the voiceechoedagain from the top of the terrace. HowcouldI, Cao Cao, be a traitor? Without my help, how couldthere bekings? How couldthere beemperors? Why does no one understand me?!


    The sigh grew until it became ayell.


    Iwas shocked.It turned out that the person up there wasnt a living person. He was the most controversial, historical figure in the era of the Three Kingdoms: Cao CaotheEmperor Wu of Wei!


    As I recalled that all ofthe victimswere murdered next tothe Bronze Bird Terrace, I finally understood. The spirit I had to deal with this time was Cao Cao.


    No wonder the spirit looked so dark. In history, Cao Cao was famous for his dark skin color.


    I remembered that the spirit had a sword,andhe fled whenever hesaw a mirror. With those details,I could confirm that this was indeed Cao Cao!


    The sword in his hand was the Seven Star Sword. In the legend, the Seven Star Swordwas forgedfrom the mysterious iron leftbehind byGan Jiang and Mo Ye, two legendary swordsmiths. It was a precious sword that could cut iron asif it was mud.


    Cao Cao hadtriedto assassinate Dong Zhuo with this sword. However, when he reached Dong Zhuos bed, Dong Zhuo saw Cao Cao drawing the swordthroughthe mirror by his bed. Cao Caohad a sudden idea andsaidthat he wanted to offer Dong Zhuo the sword. Then, hehurried to flee the scene.


    That moment of fright had haunted Cao Cao for the rest of his life. Thatwaswhy hisspirit was afraid of mirrors. And, as for why hewould only kill people while they wereasleep, Ithought it wasrted to the poems where CaoCaokilledpeople in his dreams.


    In the legend,after Cao Cao had be the Chancellor, in order to prevent assassination attempts on his person, he had deliberately liedand said thathis sleep wasnt too good. When someone came near him, he would kill that person. He had purposely killed a eunuch that hadgone totuck his nket. From then on, no assassin was sent to murder Cao Cao at night.


    After Iorganized my thoughts, I felt much at ease.


    Cao Cao wasnt agoodperson, but he wasno viin, either. I thought his spirit wouldnt just goon a rampageand kill peoplefor noreason.Thedeceased must have done something bad.


    Cao Cao was the type of man who would defeat the entire worldrather thanlettingthe world take him down. That was why he had chased after us all the way to the Police Bureau.


    He wassomeonewho couldkidnapthe emperor and controlhisvassals, keeping thenation under his control for half of his life. Whycouldthe righteous aura of the Police Bureau stop him?


    After I had cleared up my thoughts, I decided to go there and meet Cao Cao to ask him about hisobsession. Then, I would try my best to help him solve it.


    Cao Cao had always been a hero in my heart. I didnt want to seehis soul destroyed.

 Chapter 494: Ghosts in the River

    Chapter 494: Ghosts in the River


    Before I could move, I heard the loud roar of a car engine behind me. I turned and saw Chief Liu driving toward me.


    After the car had pulled to a full stop, Chief Liu and Li Mazi got off.


    I swiftly smeared two drops of ox tears on my eyelids and focused. Two out of three Yang mes on Chief Lius body were extinguished, and aheadless shadow was attached to his shoulders. Apparently, that was the ghost of Wang Zhuangzhuang.


    Chief Liu pulled Li Mazi and strodetoward me.


    Did Wang Zhuangzhuang want to take us to see Cao Cao?I mumbled to myself. I quickly moved and hid behind a rock, waiting and observing quietly.


    Indeed, after they had walked past me, they started to climb the steps I hadconsideredtakingbefore they arrived.


    While walking, Li Mazi looked around. He was worried that I hadnt gotten thereyet.I knew Li Mazis life would be over if I didnt follow them, andChief Liuwould soon follow in his footsteps. I immediately picked up some frozen mud under my feet and shoved it into my mouth.


    After people died, their soulswould returnto the earth. Thatwaswhy mud and soil hadYinproperties, and frozen mudhappened to havevery strongYin energy. I held the mud in my mouth to conceal my Yang energyasI didnt want Wang Zhuangzhuang and Cao Cao to notice me.


    I followed Chief Liu and Li Mazi to the top of the Bronze Bird Terrace. Eventually, I saw Cao Cao.


    At this time,he didnt look like a vague shadow anymore. His features were clear as though he were a living man. He was wearing the formal attire for a Chancellor in the Han Dynastyandheldthe Seven Star Sword. He lifted his headandthrusthis chest forward. Then, he looked at Li Mazi, his eyes cold and disdainful.


    Chief Liu suddenly convulsed. I turned to look at his head. Wang Zhuangzhuang hadleftChief Lius body. He respectfully gave three kowtows to Cao Cao and turned around, hurriedly leaving.


    I didnt let that chance slip away. I moved fast to stand behind Wang Zhuangzhuang, directly sucking him into my Hundred Ghost Pouch.


    Cao Cao seemed to sense the power of the Hundred Ghost Pouch. He carefully turned to see me, slowly approaching.


    Although he saw me, he was certainly thinking that I wasalsoa dead man. I wasnt really worried. I quickly sent Li Mazi a text message, asking for them to take that chancetoleave. When Cao Cao was in front of me, I abruptly bit the tip of my tongue and spat the blood on my leg,kickinghis groin right after.


    It wasnt that I was beingdisrespectful, butit was the only way to provoke the spirit and temporarilyreduce its battle prowess.


    Cao Cao gasped, his facial featurestwisting due to the pain. He crouched on the floorandrubbedhis crotch.


    I seized the chance to take Li Mazi and Chief Liu away from the Bronze Bird Terrace. Not saying a word,I stepped on the elerator as soon as we got into the car andheadeddirectly to the Police Bureau.


    Oncewe had arrived, I asked Chief Liu to gather all the mirrors in the station and take them to my room. I arranged the mirrors in the Eight Diagrams formation, toter coverthem with a raincoat.


    Chief Liu asked,Why do we have to do this?


    I smiled.I kicked Cao Caosjewels. Given hispersonality, Im sure helle to take revenge. Wellwaitfor him here.


    When I arranged the mirrors, Imade surenonepointed atthe doorthat led to theroom, whichhappened to bethe Death gate of the Eight Diagrams.


    IfCao Caodared toe, hedenter the formation. By then, he wouldhaveto beg me for mercy or leave through the Death gate. However,when Cao Cao was still alive, hewould try everything to avoid death andflee, which made me believe thathewould never exitthroughthe Death direction.


    While Chief Liu and I were preparing, Li Mazisatnext tous without saying a word,his face pale.


    At first, I thought that he hadnt recovered from thefright, soI didnt really pay attention to him. However, his condition didnt improve evenafter Chief Liu and I had done all the preparations.


    Li Mazi, are you all right?


    I waved my hand in front of his eyes and gently pushed him. Unexpectedly, Li Mazi directly fell on his back, his eyes slowly closing.


    Chief Liu paled. He supported Li Mazi and ced his finger underhisnose tocheck. He screamed, H-Hes notbreathing


    What?!


    My face changeddrastically as I went tocheckLi Mazis breathing. Indeed, it was like Chief Liu had said;he wasntbreathing.


    Mymind went nk. I rememberedeverythingwe had experienced together, and I remembered Ru Xue, who was waiting for him at home.


    He cant die! I dont believe hell die like this!


    As soon as I smeared ox tears on my eyelids, I saw that Li Mazis three Yangmes hadbeen extinguished. A wisp of dark mist was swirling above his head, sucking hisst bit of Yang energy.


    Damn it!


    My eyes turned red. I cursedandtook out a talisman,sticking it onto Li Mazis foreheadandsmashingthe dark mist. I then gentlyid Li Mazi on the bed.


    He had beenattackedby the soul of the other victim that hadnt shown up tonight. Li Mazi was stillfinewhen we were on our way back from the Bronze Bird Terrace. I was certain that the attack had happened in this Police Bureau.


    Around thirty minutes had passed, soI was sure that Li Mazis soul couldnt have gone far away.


    I hurried to change the arrangement of my Eight Diagrams formation, shifting the Life direction to the entrance. I then took Li Mazis clothes off, giving them to Chief Liu and asking him to wear them. He would need to wear Li Mazis clothes and go out of the station, calling Li Mazis name loudly.


    Chief Liu was bewildered. However, he did as I asked him. After he left, I burned three joss sticks and sat in the middle of the formation. I closed my eyes, quietly chanting the soul beckoning spell.


    As Chief Liu was shouting outside, I also picked up my chanting speed.Gradually, the light in front of my eyes began to blur. Isquintedand saw the smoke of the joss stick being pulled toward the Northwest direction.


    It seemed that Li Mazis soul hadheardour call. He wasing toward us!


    I cheered up andreadthe spell faster and faster.


    In a normal situation, Li Mazis soulwould have returned immediately. The joss sticks would burn harder for a while, and once Li Mazi returned to his body,theywould go back to normal.


    However, I had been chanting for quite a long time, and Li Mazis soul had yet toreturn. In the meantime,the joss sticks had quickly burned to the end without any other indication.


    Not good!


    The fourth victim of this decapitation casethe ghost of Zhang Yangwas preventing Li Mazi from returning! I could onlypoundmy fist on the groundwith seething anger. I went outandaskedChief Liu to return to the room and take care of Li Mazis body.I then headedNorthwest to chase after them.


    The suburban area was locatedNorthwest of Linzhangs Police Bureau. There was a small river and a market by the bridge. Since peddlers andpeopleat the market would oftenthrowgarbage into the river, the small river had soon be a stinky canal.People caught the stench from afar.


    Previously, when we crossed the river, Chief Liu told me that the governmenthad been trying to solve the problem. They had an engineeringand cleaningteam attempt to clear thisriver manytimes, butthey encounteredproblems every time due to people getting hurt or machines breaking. In the end,the problem wasnt fixed.


    I had decided tosee if something was wrong with that small riveronce we were done with this decapitation case. Yet, I had never expected that Li Mazis soul had beentaken to this ce.


    For some reason,I felt that Li Mazis soul being losthadsomething to do with the small river. When I reached the river, I heard the water sshing, just as if someone weretaking a bath there.


    However, the surface of the river had been covered with all kinds of trash, and the water underneath was frozen, so how was I able tohear water sshing?


    I was afraid there was something foul in the river. Iused the same trick as before.I cedsome frozen soil in my mouth, then hurriedly walked to the bridge andlookeddown.


    At first nce,I couldnthelp but scream.


    The frozen water I had seen in the morning was gone together with the floating trash.They had beenreced with dead bodies!


    Those corpses had swollen limbs that looked like white wintermelons. I couldnt even see their facial features. The moment I screamed, they all turned to look at me, their cold eyes wickedlystaring at me.


    Atthis moment, Li Mazis voice came from behind me. LittleBrother Zhang, is that you?


    I turned to see as soon as I heard him. Li Mazi was standing behind me. Since he was just a soul, his figure wastransparent. However, he seemed to besoakingwet as though he had just crawled out of the water.


    Seeing me, he sighed. LittleBrother Zhang, you should go back! Its very dangerous here.


    Then, he turned and ran away. I wanted to run after him, butafter I hadtakentwo steps, someone held onto my legs. I looked downand saw that the ghost I had invited to carry me a few hours ago wasnowgrabbing my feet.


    When I saw him, my first thought was that he wanted to trouble me. Instinctively, I tookout atalismanand preparedto hit him.


    But before I could do that, the ghost disappeared.


    I didnt mind himasI had to find Li Mazi.However, I soon realized that Iwas on the other side of the bridge''shandrail. Just one more step, and I would havethrownmyself into the frozen river, which would result in my death.


    Facing the sneering, floating corpses in the river, I suddenly understoodthat I had not seen Li Mazis soul.One of theghosts had tricked me.


    If the guiding ghost hadnt pulled memy legs, I would have fallen in the river and those ghosts down there would have killed me!


    Not daring tolinger, Icrossedthe bridge andreacheda small path.


    While running, someone suddenlypattedmy shoulder. My heart sank.Is a ghost chasing after me?


    After hesitating for a while, I decided to ignore it. Saving Li Mazi was more important, so I continued to run.


    After a few meters, someone touched my shoulder again. At the same time, I heard a mousesqueaking.


    My mood changed from surprised to thrilled. I turned my headand sawa giant mouse with two round, sparklingeyes lookingat me.


    It was the rat thatSenior Shuhad beenraising!


    If it washere,Senior Shuhad to be close by.


    I asked,Hey, do you know where Li Mazis soul is?

 Chapter 495: Besieging Cao Cao in the Eight Diagrams Formation

    Chapter 495: Besieging Cao Cao in the Eight Diagrams Formation


    The rat heard me. It jumped a few times on my shoulder, then dashed forward like a lightning bolt.


    I ran afterit. Soon, Inoticeda wisp of Yin energy that was quitesimr to the Yin energy that had swirled above Li Mazis head.


    After around ten minutes, I saw a shadow pulling Li Mazis ghost ahead of me. Li Mazi didnt want to go with it, and was trying toresistat every step.


    I exhaled in relief once I sawLi Mazisplete soul. I strode forward, shouting at the shadow, How dare you! You stole a living mans soul!


    The shadow was startled andshivered. He took a few steps back, talking in a dark and glum voice, He unearthed my body. Im taking revenge


    The shadow pestering Li Mazi was undoubtedly Zhang Yangs ghost. Although he hadstrong resentful energy, he was a new ghost. He was still afraid of me. I made good use of thispoint, yelling, You fool! Youve been deceived! We were there to help investigate your death. We wanted to find the real murderer!


    Is it true?Zhang Yangs expression froze, his face puzzled.


    I took the chance and used the Hundred Ghost Pouch to collect his and Li Mazis souls. Then, I turned to find the rat. I wanted to ask it to take me toSenior Shu.However,it had alreadyleft.


    It seemedSenior Shudidnt want to show up. Otherwise, he would have saved Li Mazi already. I sighed andreturnedto the Police Bureau.


    While crossing the small bridge, I heard the water sshing underneath. As I was remindedabout thescene from before, my scalp became numb. I closed my eyes andsprintedaway.


    Along the way, I became increasingly worried that Cao Cao would wreak havoc and kill more people while I wasnt in the Police Bureau.I rushed to the guest room as soon as I entered the building.


    The arrangement in the room remained the same. Li Mazi was lying on the bedwhileChief Liu was sitting on the edge, looking at the Eight Diagram with a stern face. When I entered, he heaved a sigh of relief. Howdid it go?


    Everything should be fine now I answered him,askinghim to leave right after.


    When I was alone in the room, I released Li Mazis soul and chanted the spell to make his soul return to his body.


    Li Mazi started to breathe as soon as his soul returned. His three Yang mes were burning again. However, as his soul had been affected by Zhang Yangs Yin energy, his Yang mes were still weak. Thatwaswhy he had yet towake up.I cedhis bodyatthe center of the formation.


    I could protect him there, and I could even use him tolureCao Cao.


    Afterward, I invited Chief Liu to the room to wait with me.At thismoment, the wind had subsided outside and snow started to fall.


    At first, the snowkes were as big as rice grains. However, they grew bigger with time,reaching the size of afeather. Snow fell and stacked on the tree branches in the courtyard, eventually breaking them.


    It was the first time I had seensuch a strong snowfall.I couldnt help butgoout to watch. The entire world seemed to have only one color, with the gray sky connected to the whiteearth. This was the most beautiful naturalscenery I had ever seen.


    Chief Liu followed me. He brushed the snow off his shirt, asking,The snowfall is getting heavier. Would that thing stille?


    It certainly will! I sounded resolute.


    We were talking aboutCao Cao.He wouldntlet a stormor snow hinder him from what he wanted to do.


    As soon as I said that, I heard the wind howlingand rushing towardthe Police Bureau.


    My spirit was boosted.Here hees!


    Ipulled Chief Liu to hide behind a trash bin. After all,the wind was so fast that we couldnt get into the house before it.


    As soon as we hid away, Cao Cao entered the gate of the Police Bureau. His figure shed and reappeared in the dormitory.


    He went to Chief Lius room first. Seeing no one there, he went to Li Mazis room.


    Seeing that, Chief Liu sweated in fright. His voice shivered as he spoke,That was incredible!


    Then, he gave me a thumb-up.


    I shook my head with a smile andturned to look at Cao Cao.


    After seeing no one in Li Mazis room, Cao Cao eventually went to my room. My door was left open so that he could see Li Mazi lying inside at first nce. However, he didnt get in, and only paced back and forth in thesamespot.


    Young master, whats he doing?Chief Liuwas puzzled.


    Iput on a seriousface andaskedChief Liu not to talk. I fixed my eyes on Cao Cao, my heartracing.


    I just realized I had underestimated Cao Caos mistrustful nature.He would have entered the room if I had closed the door. Butasthedoor was wide open, he wouldnt take the initiative to get in.


    Ifthis continued, all of my preparations would have beenin vain. And, it would be even more difficult to subdue himter.


    What you feared the mostwould eventuallye true!


    Cao Cao lingered at the door for a while, then he turned to leave.


    I couldnt be subtle anymore.When he passed by our hideout, Ijumpedout from behind the trash bin, yelling, cky Cao!


    Cao Cao was the second son of his family,and he had a dark skin tone. When he was young, people had always made fun of his dark skin. cky was the nickname people had given him, which he hateda lot. Thatwaswhyhe turned around right awaywhen I yelled his nickname; his eyes turned red as he gazed at me.


    My n was toprovoke him andquickly runto my room. However, I tripped when I jumped out,nding on my face like an idiot.


    Cao Cao stormed after me. Although he couldnt behead me now, he would still be able to hurt me!


    Theswords cold light was reflected on the white snow,blindingmy eyes.


    I wanted to run, but it was toote.SoI directly rolled on the ground. At the same time, I grabbed a handful of peanuts andthrewthem at the Seven Star Sword.


    Chief Liu had prepared the peanuts while we were waiting for Cao Cao. He wanted to drink some liquor with peanuts to warm up. However, they became quite handy forme at the moment.


    Cao Cao changed his expression when he saw the peanuts. He was frightenedandbackedoff, which was out of my expectation. The peanuts could only damage his Yin energy a little bit. He didnt need to react in such an exaggerated way.


    However, it didnt end here. Cao Cao took a few steps back to avoid the peanuts, but his Seven Star Sword got hit, sending sparks everywhere. Then, it disappeared.


    What the heck?


    I dropped my jaw, notbelievingwhat I saw.I couldnt understand why a divine weapon was so easily broken.


    However, before I could pull myself together, Cao Caoughedand threw himselfin the snow. Then, something even more surprising happenedthe broken Seven Star Swordrecovered. When Cao Cao got up, the sword was radiating cold light in his hand one more time.


    Why are you still standing there? Hurry, get in!


    I didnt have time to think much. Before Cao Cao came, I pulled Chief Liuand rushedinto the room. Then, I banged the door shut.


    I realized that the Seven Star Sword hadrecoveredthanks to the Yin energy Cao Cao absorbed from the snow.


    Water had Yinproperties. Thatwaswhyspirits and ghostsoften liked tolivein rivers or wells. Snow was asort of frozen waterwith highly-concentratedYin energy!


    Moreover, while falling from the sky,thesnowkes had absorbed the dirt in the air. Whenthe snowpiled up on the ground, it looked white and clean, but it was actually filthy underneath.


    Chief Liu patted his chest andlookedat the door. He asked me cautiously, Did he leave?


    I closed my eyes, although still looking at the door. I saw Cao Cao lingering there.


    I then exined to Chief Liu.No, hes hesitating, deciding whether to enter the room or not.


    But I still hadnt figured out how the peanuts could smash the Seven Star Sword.


    The peanuts I used were fried ones, whichhad thin Yang energy. But if they were enough to hit and break the Seven Star Sword, it could only mean one thingthe sword was fake!


    Actually, after Cao Cao was forced to offer the sword to Dong Zhuo, the Seven Star Sword had disappeared from history. Luo Guanzhong, the author of Romance of the Three Kingdoms,didnt mention the sword in his book. I was certain that the sword wasnt returned to Cao Caoter. If so, the sword in Cao Caos handwas just a counterfeit. It could have been made of wood or mud. Thatwaswhy it couldnt even withstand a light attack.


    I was afraid ofhimbecause ofthe sword. But now, Cao Cao didnt seem so dangerous.


    Chief Liu, dont worry. We should just wait.


    Around ten minutester, the closed door was blown open. Cao Caocharged inwith bloodshot eyes.Seeing the three of us sitting at the center of the room,he hesitated, carefully watching the Eight Diagrams underneathour feet.


    Hahaha, its the formation that peasant ZhugeLiangused to y with.Are you tryingto make yourself look like a joke?


    Cao Cao recognized the Eight Diagrams. However, he ignored it anddashedforward.


    Sess!


    I couldnt control the joy in my heart. Chief Liu and I removed Li Mazi from the Eight Diagrams. Then, we pulled the rope.As the rope was pulled, the raincoats and fabricswe used to cover the mirrors were all lifted. Except for the direction towards the door, the other sevendirectionsbegan to reflect light.


    A white halo burst from the center of the formation, directly imprisoning Cao Cao.


    Actually, when Chief Liu and I were taking those steps, Cao Cao could haveseizedthe time to leave the Eight Diagrams formation. However,hemissed the chance due to his initial hesitation.


    His face changed when he saw the white halo. He knew he had been trapped and that itwouldn''t beeasy to escape. Heused his hands to hit his head and fell to the ground.


    At this time, he was facing the most perilous gate of the formation: The Death Gate! It didnt look special to the naked eye,but to people in this business, the Death Gate had mountains of skeletons that fumed green smoke. In the distance, I could still feel the strong breath of Death. Ibacked off out of reflex.


    What are you looking at? I see nothing over there.


    Chief Liu studied the door, notgetting what was happening.


    I smiled, then dripped two drops of oxtearsfrom a small bottle on my palm. I used my finger to smear the ox tears on Chief Lius eyelids. Take a looknow!


    Chief Liu turned and looked. His face instantly changed. Can we escape this ce?


    Dont worry. After I deactivate the formation, the Death gate will disappear.


    Then, I slowly stepped forward, respectfully bowing to Cao Cao. Chancellor Cao, please receive my greeting.


    Cao Cao knew he was imprisoned; his face paled. Under the light from seven mirrors, he was like Sun Wukong after having beenconfined by the Band-tightening Spell. He kept hitting his own head, his face twistingdue to the pain.


    He had attempted to escape from the Death gateseveraltimes. Ultimately, he failed.

 Chapter 496: The Ruined Temple

    Chapter 496: The Ruined Temple


    Spirits and humans were different, after all. The spirit in front of me was just a wisp of Cao Caos will. He was nothingpared to the heroic figure who had lived in the Three Kingdoms era. Communicating with me in a normal way would be impossible.


    I suddenly felt regretful. After some consideration, I told Chief Liu to close the door to prevent the wind and snow from affecting my Eight Diagrams formation.


    Then, I jumped through the window to go to another room where I released the ghosts of Zhang Yang and Wang Zhuangzhuang.


    There had been four people involved thus far, and Zhu Fengchun was Cao Caos aplice. Since Li Tianshengs body had been minced, his soul must have perished already, leaving Zhang Yang and Wang Zhuangzhuang as my remaining clues.


    The resentful energy they originally carried had been absorbed by the Hundred Ghost Pouch. They looked dull when they reappeared, like senile people. Their nk eyes looked at me. Their movements were also stiff, almost robotic.


    Those were the signs that their souls would perish soon. I cursed under my breath and quickly asked them, Tell me, how did you die?


    Die? The two reacted in unison. They lifted their heads and started wailing.


    They were crying their hearts out, their howling filled with sadness. It felt as if their voices came from Hell, which made my scalp tingle. I was enraged and yelled at them, Stop crying! Answer me!


    Living humans shouldnt listen to ghosts crying, or their souls would be bewitched.


    Perhaps my face was really scary or they were afraid of the Hundred Ghost Pouchs power, but Wang Zhuangzhuang and Zhang Yang exchanged looks and slowly told me the story.


    It turned out the four people involved in this case had known each other before. They met by chance and took the same taxi in Linzhang County to go home.


    However, that taxi wasnt registered. That was why the police couldnt find it.


    If things had taken a normal course, the four migrant workers would have gone back to their hometown for New Years celebration to see their wives and children. However, Zhu Fengchun had enthusiastically invited them to visit his house for dinner.


    People from the countryside were always nave and simple, and Zhu Fengchun looked very kind. Since it was around midnight already, they decided to follow him so as to avoid disturbing their families.


    Zhu Fengchun hadnt prepared much to properly treat them. He made some dried peanuts, cabbage, and dried meat for them.


    After supper, they set up the brazier to continue drinking and chatting.


    They became drunk after a while of merrymaking, and they kept on talking, sharing their harsh experiences working in the big cities. Some even cried.


    At that time, Zhu Fengchun lowered his voice and told them that there was a treasure hidden in a shabby temple within the area. If they could get it, their days would be much better. He wanted to recruit them if they were interested.


    No one would have believed Zhu Fengchun under normal conditions, but since they were drunk, they felt braver. They grabbed shovels and hoes and followed Zhu Fengchun to the abandoned temple on the other side of the Zhang River.


    Zhu Fengchun led them to a ruined temple with a Bodhisattva statue inside that looked like Cao Cao.


    When I heard that, I furrowed my brow and asked with uncertainty, You mean that Zhu Fengchun knew that the Bodhisattva statue was abnormal?


    He knew. He deliberately killed us, Wang Zhuangzhuangs ghost said through his gritted teeth. But we couldnt do anything since the spirit of Cao Cao was with him. We couldnt defeat Zhu Fengchun.


    They had almost sobered up when they saw the statue that resembled Cao Cao. The folks living in the countryside were really superstitious. They all thought that the statue looked too real, which wasnt normal at all. They wanted to leave.


    Unexpectedly, Zhu Fengchun sneered. You drank my wine, and you still want to run?


    He had drugged them. Wang Zhuangzhuang and the other two couldnt run anymore, so Zhu Fengchun tied them up easily.


    He then used a syringe to take their blood, smearing it on Cao Caos eyes and mouth. Afterward, he sat cross-legged in front of the statue and chanted something.


    They would never forget what happened next. The dark-skinned statue that looked like Cao Cao seemed to have been revived. It then went to whisper something to Zhu Fengchun.


    On the next day, they woke up and found themselves in a wastnd. They didnt get hurt or encounter anything unexpected. As such, they decided to forget what happened the night before since it had been too bizarre.


    No one had thought that they would be beheaded a few dayster!


    I couldnt help but ball my hands into fists after listening to their story. Everything was clear to me now. That moron Zhu Fengchun had learned evil techniques from somewhere, and he used the blood of the three men to awaken Cao Caos spirit. He then offered the three mens lives in exchange for Cao Caos assistance.


    People had little respect for our profession because of these worms. Zhu Fengchun had done things he shouldnt have. No matter what, I had to purge him!


    After making up my mind, I asked Wang Zhuangzhuang, Do you remember where the ruins are? The ghost nodded then slowly approached me.


    I was surprised, but I quickly understood his n. I raised my hands and inteced my fingers with his.


    I closed my eyes, and the route from the Police Bureau to the temple ruins appeared in my head.


    I then respectfully bowed to Wang Zhuangzhuang. Since his soul was too weak and he hadmunicated with my soul to show me the way, he received further damage because of my Yang energy.


    As I was afraid that his soul would perish, I ced the two ghosts back in the Hundred Ghost Pouch.


    When I returned to the room to check on Cao Cao, I was surprised to see that the Death gate was gone!


    Moreover, all the mirrors had been shattered to pieces. Cao Cao was no longer imprisoned in the center of my Eight Diagrams formation.


    Damn it! I could only curse after seeing this.


    I strode forward to check the room. Chief Liu was on the ground with blood on his head, convulsing. He tried to write the word Zhu on the ground when he saw me. But before he could finish, his eyes rolled to the back of his head and fainted.


    Zhu Fengchun! I was sure Zhu Fengchun was the one who had assaulted Chief Liu and broken my Eight Diagram formation.


    I hurried to call the police, asking them to head to the station and help Chief Liu. Then, I grabbed my Sirius Whip and the Soul Peach Flower, rushing outside.


    At this moment, the snow had stopped falling, and there was no wind. The snow had preserved Cao Caos trail of Yin energy well. I followed his Yin energy, realizing that he was heading toward the temple.


    It seemed Zhu Fengchun was taking Cao Cao back to his temple... There certainly was some conspiracy afoot! I became more vignt as I followed them.


    My jaw fell when I reached the temple. It was an awe-inspiring sight as the entire shabby temple was made up of antiques. The blue bricks on the ground, the red tiles on the roof, and even the incense holder were at least one thousand years old.


    As an antique merchant, I could recognize at first nce that this poorly-preserved temple was a historical site. This small Linzhang County was hiding such a gem!


    I was from the South, so it wasnt strange that I had no knowledge about this temple. However, it was strange that Wang Zhuangzhuang and the other two knew nothing about this, even though they were locals. I assessed the temple again. Eventually, I found the problem.


    This battered temple was shaking a little!


    The surroundings werepletely still, but the temple was shaking. This couldn''t be normal. I hesitated, but in the end I clenched my teeth and decided to get inside to know the truth.


    Right at this moment, someone called me from behind, Dont go in there!


    It was Li Mazis voice. I wanted to turn to see him, but I remembered Li Mazi was unconscious in the police dormitorys guest room. How could he be here? My heart sank, and I subconsciously grabbed the Sirius Whip tighter.


    Li Mazi called again since I didnt react. Little Brother Zhang, this abandoned temple is just an illusion. Its actually a mass grave!


    I shuddered, looking at the temple again. I felt scared now.


    Li Mazi walked toward me. I knew I couldnt just stand still. Resolutely, Ished at him with my Sirius Whip, shouting, Stay away!


    Li Mazi grabbed the Sirius Whip and said anxiously, Little Brother Zhang, its me!


    I focused on his face. It was indeed him.


    He definitely wasnt a ghost if he could grab the Sirius Whip and still be all right.


    I exhaled in relief and asked him, Dude, werent you unconscious? Why are you here?


    At the same time, I scanned the temple one more time.


    At some point, I heard Chief Lius scream. When I was about to get up, I saw how Zhu Fengchun broke your formation, eventually fleeing with Cao Caos soul.


    Li Mazi paused, scratching his head. I didnt know where you were or what to do, so I followed them to this ce.


    I was touched after looking at his despicable face. I patted his shoulder.


    Okay, lets talk about serious stuff. Guess what Ive seen just now? Li Mazis eyes sparkled as he looked at me.

 Chapter 497: The Dream the Painter had Spent Half of His Life to Chase

    Chapter 497: The Dream the Painter had Spent Half of His Life to Chase


    It was just a barren graveyard when Zhu Fengchun came here, and I even saw the coffins exposed. All he did was wave his hand, and this ce became a battered temple. Then, he left. I didnt dare to follow him, so I waited for you here, said Li Mazi.


    Is that so? I was doubtful, but I soon got it.


    Cao Cao was afraid of mirrors, so Zhu Fengchun must have used a mirror to control him.


    It came to me that the otherworldly item wasnt the Seven Sword Star but some sort of mirror! Zhu Fengchun probably came here to borrow the graves power to help Cao Cao replenish his Yin energy.


    Without further ado, I asked Li Mazi to show me where Zhu Fengchun had gone.


    After almost an hour, I confirmed that Zhu Fengchun went back home.


    When we arrived at his house, I received a call from Chief Liu. He had just awoken and his wound had been treated. He called me as soon as he got discharged to ask where I was.


    I told him, You should have your men go to Zhu Fengchuns. We are going to bring Zhu Fengchun to justice!


    Hanging up the call, I went directly to Zhu Fengchuns house. The gate was open, and Zhu Fengchun was wearing a Han suit while sitting at a desk in the snow-covered yard. He had a thick stack of Xuan paper sheets next to him; he was drawing something.


    Were you waiting for me? I asked.


    At thisst moment, I felt much rxed.


    I took a nce at what Zhu Fengchun was drawing. It was a snowy scene. Under a snowy sky, a lively vige had started its new day. The peddlers were selling things on the street. Many kids were ice-skating on the frozen river while their mothers stood aside, worrying. Everything looked quite realistic.


    This painting wasparable to <em>Along the River During th</em><em>e</em><em>Qingming Festival</em>. It was truly an excellent piece of art. The characters in the painting seemed toe alive. As he could draw such a moving painting, he was someone really passionate. My interest was piqued, so I could only probe, Your painting is really good. Really beautiful. It makes me wonder, why did you have to be a murderer?


    It seemed Zhu Fengchun felt I was beneath him, so he didnt bother exining. He casually tore his excellent painting into pieces. Then, he pointed at his clothes, screaming, Ive loved Chinese culture since I was a child. Ive always thought that foreign cultures dont have anything great, at all. The five-thousand-year history of the Chinese civilization is what we should be all proud of! Thats why I like wearing Han suits and practicing our national brush painting technique. Im proud to say that its the greatest achievement of my life!


    Im just a farmer, so Its not easy for me to draw. While I was still full of hope, I tried to join an exhibition, but theyughed at me. They mocked me, saying I was just a farmer and couldnt possibly draw something good. They told me to go home and make more bricks! A few monthster, I identally found out that my painting had won the first prize of that exhibition. But the authors name wasnt mine


    I was shocked and could only pity him. I had an urge tofort him. No matter what, it cant be a reason for you to kill innocent people. Stop now. As long as you admit your crime, Chief Liu and I will beg for mercy on your behalf; you would be discharged after a few years. You can always start all over again.


    Hahaha


    Zhu Fengchun began tough crazily. In the mere blink of an eye, his eyes turned bloodshot. He pointed his finger at me, shouting, You arrogant city people look down on us farmers! Thats why this worlds be so unfair! All of you deserve death!


    Then, he threw the stack of Xuan paper sheets into the sky. When the sheets of paper fell, I caught a glimpse of ferocious soldiers and famous Generals of the Wei Dynasty, including Xu Chu, Dian Wei, Zu Ban, Zhang Liao, etc.


    After throwing the paper, Zhu Fengchun rushed into his house and shortly returned to the yard with a round copper mirror. The mirror looked perfectly polished and exquisite. However, it exuded thick Yin energy.


    I knew it was the otherworldly item. I had a bad premonition while I nced at the drawings of famous generals on the ground.


    I charged toward him instinctively, trying to snatch the mirror. At the same time, the police siren was heard outside.


    Zhu Fengchun became furious when he heard the siren. His voice became frozen cold. Come here, all of you. We will die together!


    Then, he cut his own throat with a dagger. Blood sprayed, dyeing the copper mirror red.


    Get out of here! Tell Chief Liu not to let anybody enter this courtyard! Hurry up!


    I knew I could no longer stop Zhu Fengchun. I hastily shouted to Li Mazi. He was surprised, but he rushed out immediately.


    At the moment Li Mazi left the yard, the world in front of me changed.


    I felt as if I was in a battlefield from ancient times. The entire world was filled with a murderous aura. I was facing an army of tens of thousands whose leader was the dark-skinned Cao Cao.


    There were famous generals under Cao Caosmand, as well as countless armed soldiers. They all sneered, looking down on me as if I was an ant. I turned around, but no one was behind me.


    God loved me so much that he made me challenge Cao Caos army all alone. I didnt know if I should cry orugh.


    I thought I could make a run for it before they took action, but I couldnt get out of that yard.


    I knew it was because of a ghost wall. I would never be able to escape that ce unless Cao Cao and others ran away first. Still, I wouldnt go down without a fight. My right hand held the Sirius Whip while my left hand wielded the Peach Soul Flower. I shouted and dashed toward Cao Cao.


    Cao Cao snorted as he drew his Seven Star Sword, rising it high in the sky. The tide of armed soldiers immediately swarmed toward me.


    Lucky me, they didnt shoot any arrows, because I would have turned into a hedgehog otherwise. When we finally engaged in the fight, I realized that those soldiers werent that strong. Ash from my whip could kill many of them.


    However, the Sirius Whip and the Peach Soul Flower had limited energy. They soon lost their power, while more and more soldiers surrounded me.


    I held thest few talismans, considering whether I should die with the enemy.


    Suddenly, there was a sh of blue light. The soldiers in front of me perished, turning into smoke. The rest of the army hurried to retreat to Cao Caos side.


    I turned and saw Chuyi. He was wearing a white shirt, the Sky Piercer in his hand.


    Im here. Fear not, said Chuyi with a cating tone. Then, he pointed the de at Cao Cao. Cao Cao I, Lu Bu, will take your head today!


    The Sky Piercers intimidating aura shot directly into the sky. Cao Cao was so scared that he fell off his horse. His generals propped him up and fled.


    When the remaining soldiers had finally disappeared, the surroundings changed back to Zhu Fengchuns courtyard.


    Zhu Fengchun was dead, the bloody copper mirror still in his hands.


    I sighed as I looked at him. He wanted to die, so I wasnt able to help him.


    Chuyi, how did you know that I would need saving?


    Senior Chu told me. I was afraid that I couldnt deal with Cao Cao, so I passed by your shop to fetch the Sky Piercer Lu Bu had formerly used.


    If Chuyi hadnt had the Sky Piercer, Cao Cao would have never run away!


    Chief Liu told his men to take care of Zhu Fengchuns body. Afterwards, they closed the case.


    Even a dummy knew the mirror was a treasure. When a young policeman was about to put the copper mirror into the evidence stic bag, Chief Liu yelled at him. Leave it there. Its just a broken mirror ,and there is no need to collect it.


    Then, he gave me a meaningful smile. I smiled back, giving him a nod.


    The next day, I visited the graveyard and the area by the small river to perform a ritual. I wanted to help the lingering souls there ascend. At the same time, it would also help the locals.


    The serial decapitation case ended there. Zhu Fengchun, resentful for the injustice he suffered, wanted to control Cao Caos spirit to kill innocent people. If Senior Chu hadnt discovered him in time, the number of victims would have kept on rising.


    Senior Chu, what do you think about this case? I asked.


    Society is awful!


    Iughed my head off.


    The more we lived, the weirder the things we witnessed in our society. There were a handful of the so-called elites that thought they were above everyone else. Those people looked down on farmers, thinking that the most embarrassing thing to do in this world was to be near them


    A while back, a guy named Zhou Libo had publicly insulted all farmers to praise Shanghai, the city where he lived.


    But he forgot one thing.


    Who were his ancestors? Farmers!


    Who fed him? Farmers did!


    Farmers, the simple and honest people who worked the soil, were actually the greatest among Chinese people.

 Chapter 498: This Box Must Not Be Touched

    Chapter 498: This Box Must Not Be Touched


    Most of the business cases in the otherworldly item Circlewere rted todeceased peopleandevil spirits. After awhile,ones karma would inevitably take a hit.


    That was why we hadthisunwritten rule in this businessto periodically do charity work.During the trip, it wasamustnot toprovokeanyone. We had to be humble and patient.Itwas the only waytopletelyget rid of the bad luck!


    It was a rule my grandfatherfollowedall his life, soInned to do the same. After the New Year holiday, I asked Li Mazi tewith me tocollectsome good karma.But he waszy andlost interestwhen I told him that we were going to a rural area. He declined by using Ru Xues pregnancyas an excuse.


    I didnt feel like forcing him. I told my ns to Yin Xinyue and left on my own,choosingthe small paths in the countrysidefor my trip.


    Itwas the beginningof spring, so the farmers didnt have many things to dointhe fields. As they had free time, they wouldgatherto y mahjong. The scene was the same all the way from Hubei to Hebei. Those folks invited me a few times to y with them, butmy luck wasnt really good and I lost.


    I had spent almost half a monthdrawingprotectivecharms for the vigersorgivingsome financial support to the elderly or the widows. I hadnt encountered any trouble so far. Unwittingly, I had arrived in Puyang.


    Handanwas to thenorth of Puyang, andIdidnt feel like going there asI had justdealt withCao Cao near Handan, so I decided to stop at Puyang.


    Every time my grandpa went out to do charity work, he wouldspendfromtentofifteen days.Given the time, my mission should havebeenplete. I decided tospend thenight there and go home thenextday.


    To my surprise, somethinghappenedduringthst night ofmytrip.


    Since it was thest night of the trip, I was toozy to ask around tofind a nice ce. I got a room in a small, simple hostel.


    The owner was a grannie who seemed to be more thansixty years old. Shehurried to get me a room andtookme upstairswhile carryinga kettle of warm water.


    She didnt leave after cing the kettle on the tableandchatted with me for a whilein herHenan dialect. After talking with her for a while, I knew that she was a widow,and thissmall hostel was the house the old couple had bought for their son after he got married.


    However, her son had bought a house in another province, and he rarely went back hometo visit. After her husband passed away, the grannie remodeled the house and turned itinto a small hostel, which helped herearn some money.


    I admired this hard-working grannie, so I alsotoldher my stories.


    Her eyes brightened when she learned that I was an otherworldly merchant. She looked somewhat hesitant. Eventually, she told me to sleep earlyand left.


    The look on her face belied some trouble she was coping with. Big trouble,I guessed. Otherwise,shewouldnt havelookedso distressed.


    Ifshe didnt want to talk, there wasnt much I could do.


    I rolledaroundin my bed, unable to sleep. I hadafeeling thatmy charity trip wouldnt be sessful if I didnthelpher.


    I resolutely descended the stairsand directly askedtheolddy whethershe had any trouble.


    The grannie kept silent for a while. Then, she said,Son, follow me.


    With herbackhunched, sheheadedto the back of the hostel. I followed her.


    There was a small courtyard behind the hostelthatheld quite a few misceneous items. Therewas also asingle-floor housewith a strawroof.My guess was that the ce used to be the grannies old house.


    I caught a wisp of aromatic incense as we got closer to the house. The aroma became thicker and almost irritating to the nostrils when thedy pushed the door open.


    I couldnt help but pinch my nose. Grannie, why are you burningthis muchsandalwood in such asmall room? Although it can expel evil spirits, too much smoke in the room isnt good for your body. Dont you know this?


    I didnt have a choice


    The grannie shook her head, then invited me in. Inoticedthat the altar table in her house was made of red sandalwood, the best type of sandalwood.


    Redsandalwood,also called Blue Dragon wood, was the perfecttoolto expel evil spirits. At the same time, it could bring good fortune to the family. In ancienttimes, imperial courtiers and nobles had used red sandalwood to create essories or furniture.


    Duringthe Ming Dynasty, almost all the red sandalwood in our country had been cut down. The imperial court then sent people to various Southeast Asian countries to buy the wood. It proved how precious red sandalwood was!


    I didnt expect to see such a treasure in the house of this ordinary-looking grannie. I touched the wooden furniture; the material was genuine. Then, I recognized that even the incense holder, the offering bowls, and the tumblersweremade of red sandalwood.


    Behind the incense holderwasa bronze box, the only item on the altar not madeof sandalwood. I reached out as I wanted to touch it, but the grannie grabbed my hand, her facetense. Son, you shouldnt touch this box.


    Is there something wrong with thisbox? I muttered.


    The grannie nodded, her face serious. Then, she came near me, whispering, Did you noticeanything?


    I became tensedue toher behavior. I turned and carefully assessed the box.


    I saw a few cracks on the box which had revealed the red color inside. I then realized that it was a wooden box painted in bronze.


    I couldnt guess the age of this box due to thisyer of bronze paint.As the granniedidnt tell me anything,I tried to look inside the box through the small cracks.


    However, I didntfindanything strange. I turned and gavehera skeptical look.


    Let me show you, the grannie said after hesitating for a while.


    Sheremovedthe incense holder and pulled me to the door, her face serious.


    As I was about to ask her what she was doing, thealtar table shook violently. The bronze-painted box seemed to have been revived as itbouncedon the table.


    After each bounce, the cracks on the box would expel a wisp of red mist. However, the red mist didnt disperse. It slowly gathered, covering the entire altar table.


    Although I didnt know what was in the box,it certainly wasnt something ordinary ifit could subdue the furniture made of red sandalwood. I quickly backed off, my gaze stilllingering onthe mist.I wanted to know what it would do.


    The mist wasnt trying to attack us, and nothing else happened after itcoveredthe altar. Around ten minutester, the red mist was dispersed.


    A cry arose from the box rightwhen themist hapletelydisappeared.


    Afterward, everything went back to normal.


    I curiously asked the olddy, Auntie, what just happened?


    Since she had kept calmwhenthe red mist appeared, it wasobviousthat it wasntthe first time this had urred. Moreover,she was unharmed after all this time.


    Sowhywas shesoscaredbefore? Ifelttherewas more to this story.


    The grannie looked at me, then at the box. Shecedthe incense holder back on the altar table and piously burned three joss sticks. We left the houseafterwards.


    When we returned to the hostel, the grannie sat down. Her eyes reddenedas she choked with sobs. Actually, myte husband was killed by that thing


    I frowned. I waited until the grannie calmed down to pryfurther.Auntie, could you tell me what happened?


    Yes, Ill tell you the whole story.


    The grannie wiped hertears. Ill share it with you, but you should just leave it alone.


    It seemed that she didnt believe I could handle thiskind of stuff. I simply noddedand started listeningto her story.

 Chapter 499: The Odd Story of the Bronze Box

    Chapter 499: The Odd Story of the Bronze Box


    As it turned out, the grannieste husband had been a veteran who participated in the counterattack against Vietnam. He had killed a few Vietnamese soldiers, which earned him an honor medal. However,the government didnt arrange any work for him afterhe was done with the war. He didnt even receive the least amount of support from the government.


    As the married couplewas middle-aged, they had to return to their hometown and work in their field to earn a living. Unfortunately, their piece ofnd was confiscated under the excuse of him being asoldier,which set the couple apart from thefarmersocial ss. It meant they werent eligible to havend for cultivating.


    Desperate, the two had to go to the back of the mountain, where no one would go, and exploit the soil there. That was the ce where they had unearthed the bronze box.


    I couldnt help but interrupt the olddy.Auntie, you mean this strange box has been here since a few decades ago?


    In principle, if the boxwasthat fierce, this married couple would have encountered bad luck from the moment they found it. Why had it stayeddormantfor a few decades and then suddenly decided to cause trouble?


    Yeah, it has been here for a long time.


    The grannie sighed, her nk eyeslooking atthe wall behind me. I turned to see what she was looking at. There was a ck-and-white photo on the wall. It depicteda man in uniform with some medals on his chest. The square-jawed man was smiling confidently at the camera.


    Myheartsuddenly felt heavy. If the heroesthathad protected this countrys borders were unable tolivea decent life after retiring,what hopedid this nation have?


    The grannie continued, After we got the bronzebox, my husbandwas delighted. He wanted to sell it tobuy somefood.Back then, wewere having a hard time. We didnt even have rice to eat


    Aunty, this nationlet you down. Mynosefelt sour as I replied.


    The poor couple wanted to sell the bronze box, but theyter found out that it wasntreal bronzeand held no value. Still, since it looked nice, they didnt throw it awayand decided to keepit in their house.


    The box didnt have a lid or any openings, andit would break if forcibly opened. Thatwaswhy they never tried toopenit.


    As time went on,their situation improved thanks to their hard work, and they had a sonin their old age. The couple thought that they could live happily like this until they passed away, but everything changed when their son turned eighteen.


    Their son,Zhou Tian,had always been a bright kid. He was filial, smart, and sensible. All his rtives and friends liked him. They all thought that he would have a bright future.


    Nobody had expected thatZhou Tian would changeafter his eighteenth birthday. He shut himself in his room, unwilling to talkto people. At night, he would cry loudly for noreason.


    The old couple thought that Zhou Tian had something weighing on his mind. They tried totalk tohim, but hegave them thecold shoulder.They decided notto bother him furtherand thoughtthat he would get over it soon. But the situation got worse as days passed


    One night, they were awakened by a loud noise. Then, they heard Zhou Tian sobbing upstairs.


    They dressed up and rushed upstairs. Zhou Tian had smashed thebigTV they had just bought into pieces. All that remained were hand-sized shards.


    Zhou Tian was lying on top of the shards, covering his eyes as herolledaround. He cried as if he had been subjecttoinjustice.


    The old couplewasnt concernedabout their new TV, butabouttheir sons well being. They hurried to help him standupandpulled his hands off his face. What they saw next wouldhauntthem for the rest of their livesZhou Tians eyes were gone, andblood streamed from his empty sockets!


    The grannie was overwhelmed by theshock. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head andfainted.


    Zhou Tians father used to be a soldier. Although he was old, he didnt falter and was ready tocarry his son to the hospital. Unexpectedly, theskinny Zhou Tian seemed to have be quite strongat thatmoment. He directly knocked his father unconscious.


    When they woke up the next day, Zhou Tians eyes were fine. But the shattered TV was proof that whatever happened theprevious nighthad beenreal.


    They both understood that their son had been haunted by a foulspirit. They hurried to find a master, and one had agreed to pay them a visit.However,he immediately ran away the momenthe saw the bronze box. He simply didnt want to ept this case.


    The grannie didnt want to give up. She invited a few more famous masters, but none haddared to help them.


    Eventually, they decided to throw the bronze box away, hoping that things would turn for the better.However, her husband died that very night.


    My husband had a tragic death!The grannie began to weep.


    I knew she was about to reach the climax of this story. Auntie, what happened that night?


    I was sleeping. My husband appeared in my dream, cryingandtelling me to use sandalwood to worship that box.ording to him, this was the only way tosave our son.He told me howmuch heregretted taking the bronze box home.But now, it was toote.


    My husband waved me goodbye,slowly moving awayuntil his figurepletely disappearedfrom my sight. I woke up and foundhimdead. He was hugging the box.


    The grannie couldnt hold it anymore and cried.


    From what she had told me, I could conclude that this box contained some otherworldly item or was the otherworldly item itself. Otherwise, her husband wouldnt haveaskedher to worship the box.


    If it were an otherworldly item, I was certain that I could solve this!


    The otherworldly item had started to wreak havoc when Zhou Tian had turned eighteen. This otherworldly items owner must have had something to do with the numbereighteen.


    After the olddy had stopped weeping, I asked her, Where is your sonnow?


    He lives in Puyang.I have been worshipping this box ever sincemy husbanddied. My son Zhou Tianhas not acted strange since then. Aftergraduatingfrom theuniversity, he married and had kids. He then bought an apartment in the city.


    Why dont you live with him?


    I noticed that her facelooked sadwhen she talked about her son.


    Sheforced a smile. Zhou Tianknows that this bronze box is evil, so hehasntreturned home since then. Moreover, hes scared of his wife.


    Her sondidnt want his mother to live withhim, so he abandonedher, making the old woman live on her own.


    What an unfilial son! This is too much.


    I gritted my teeth andmade up my mind.I would teach him a lessonafterdealing withthis otherworldly item.


    I asked her for Zhou Tians new house address. Auntie, you shouldnt burn the joss sticks for the box tonight. I want to see what the otherworldly item would do to Zhou Tian.


    The grannie asked me to protect Zhou Tian, telling me that he was their only son.She wouldnt be able to live anymore if something happened to him.


    Mothers always worried for their children when they were away from home. But when it was the other way around, their children wouldnt worryat all! I was touched byhersense of motherhood.I couldnt help but remember my parents as I made my wayto Zhou Tians house.


    I had never seen my mother and father.


    Although my grandfather had treated me well, I knew that parental love was something my grandfather was unable togiveme. Zhou Tian was lucky, but he didnt appreciate that.I cried in silenceas I thought about it. I only pulled myself together when the driver urged me to get out.


    I rubbed my eyes andexited the vehicle. I noticed that Zhou Tian was living in a high-endvi located in a luxuriousresidential area. The independent vis wererathevish,very differentfrom the grannys little hostel.


    The security guy at the gate was adamant, notallowingme to enter the neighborhood. I told him that I was Zhou Tians cousin,askingif I could talk to him.


    A momentter, a square-jawed, middle-aged manarrived atthe security booth. As he walked closer, he mumbled to himself, Since when did I have acousin?


    Zhou Tian, theres somethingI have to tell you.


    That middle-aged man was Zhou Tian. No longer pretending to be his cousin, Iwentstraight to the point.


    After listening to me, he questioned, Who are you? Why are you looking for me?


    Your mother asked me toe.Take a walk with me so we cantalk. I noticed the security guards were looking at me like hungry tigers.


    Zhou Tianwas puzzled. What happened to my mother?


    Your mother is okay, but youre about to encounter danger. I was maddened by his attitude. I will bewatchingyou for the next twenty-four hours. Im here tohelpyou.


    Zhou Tian burst outughing. He took out a one-hundred-renminbibindthrew iton the ground. He looked at me disdainfully. You wantmoney, right?No need to use such tactics, just take it.


    He thenturned aroundto leave, notlooking at me a second time.


    I looked at the one-hundred-renminbibill on the ground, thinking that Zhou Tian was a real scumbag.


    His mother had been working tirelessly at the hostel, and thebusiness wasnt evengoodenough to earn one hundredrenminbia day.Yet, he was here throwing money around.


    I really wanted to leave and let the bronze box kill this bastard. However,my heart softenedwhen I rememberedthe granniespitiful appearance. Eventually, I went to anIntecafe andchosea seat by the window.


    Around midnight, I stopped ying with the PC and turned to watch the neighborhoodentrance.


    If that otherworldly item went to trouble Zhou Tian, he would believe what I had told him. He would then return to his mothers to find me.


    It was reallyte at night, and there werent any people walking on the street. The security booth also looked silent. All the vis in the neighborhood had their lights off. Everything looked calm and peaceful.


    I watched the scene for half an hour.The moment I thought nothing strange would happen, I heard a woman shrieking in the distance.Next, the lightsofa vi were turned on.

 Chapter 500: Maam, Please Behave Yourself

    Chapter 500: Ma''am, Please Behave Yourself


    I pulled myself together, remembering the location of thevi. Then, I intently looked at it. Soon, a womanin a nightgowncame out of her house. With a frightened face, she rushed to see the security guards.


    She was probably Zhou Tians wife. I left theInte shop, walking out.


    I arrived in front of her before she couldknockon the security booth. Zhou Tian is your husband, right?


    Bewildered, sheaskedas if I were her sole life-saving straw,Are you the master Zhou Tiantold me about?


    Tell me, what happened?


    I didnt stop after confirming the womans identity.Ipulledher into the neighborhood,askingher for more information as we moved forward.


    The woman shivered. I was sleepingwhenI heard someone crying. It wasveryclose, just as if it was next to me. Then, I found that it was ZhouTian who was weeping. He seemed to have be someone else. It was so strange.


    When we were near their house, I heard someone crying inside.


    I lowered my voice and said,Go straight to the point!


    The woman nodded. I think Zhou Tian is being pestered by a foul thing. He told me to find you and ask for your help before he losthis sanity.


    I see. Dont worry.


    I drew the Sirius Whip and hidit behindmy back, askingher to open the door.


    At first nce, I saw Zhou Tian rolling and weeping in the living room. His eyes were gone, andhis empty sockets werebleedingnonstop.


    His wifesaw the sceneand screamed. Shefellon her butt while shivering uncontrobly.


    When Zhou Tian heard her scream, he sat up andscolded her. Youdamnedbitch! Im going to kill you!


    He then covered his eyesandkept rolling on the ground. He simply ignored me.


    The woman covered her mouth, tears brimming her eyes. I gestured at the dooras a way to tell her togo out first. I slowly moved forward after she had left the room.Zhou Tianignored me the whole time.


    Whothe hell are you? Whyare you hauntinghim?I grabbed the Sirius Whip, my eyes cold. I wanted to threaten thespiritthat was attached to Zhou Tian.


    The spirit wasnt afraid. It controlled Zhou Tians body andcrawledcloser to me. He licked the blood streaming from his eyes, sneering and mocking. Youre not a worthy opponent


    Well, lets fight to find out!


    If it didnt want to talk, Icould onlyuse force. I screamed andshed withmySirius Whip.


    ThewhiphitZhou Tians neck. He screechedand stumbledtwo meters away. He then crouched on the ground and stopped moving altogether.


    Right after, sharppain was transmitted frommy back. I turned and sawsomered mist trying to drill into my body.


    The pain came from the contact with that red mist. I immediately took out a handful of refined salt and threw it over. The mist sizzledanddispersed, but I felt a twingein my back again.


    The red mist seemed to beyingwith me. No matterin which directionI turned, it would appear behind me. My movementsslowed down, andmybody became cold.


    I couldnt help but sneeze.I realized that the red mist wasconsumingmy Yang energy. Ifthis continued,thingswould be over for me.


    The red mist changed tactics while I was trying to resist it, spreading all around me.


    Wisps of red mist twined together, creating a thatshrouded me.


    When we were in the grannies single-story house, the otherworldly item had done this to deal with the red sandalwood altar.


    The sandalwood altarhad been unable todeal with that attack so it shook hard.


    I quickly operated my brain and saw a ball cactus by the window sill before my view waspletely blocked.


    nts like this ball cactus could absorb dust and purify the air. They were full of Yang energy that could be used to expel Yin energy. I hurried to roll toward the ball cactus. Then, I picked up the pot andsmashedit on thefloorwith all of my strength.The ball cactus was broken into small pieces.


    I hurried to pick a piece of the cactus withoutthorns anddirectly stuffeditin my mouth. The slightly bitter taste filled my oral cavity, and my body started to warm up.


    I felt much lighter as the heat was expanding tocovermy entire body.Mostof the pain caused by the red mist was gone.


    I felt more confidentnow. Every time the heatwas about to disperse, I would pick another piece of cactus,swallowing it. Slowly, the red miststarted to weaken.


    All of a sudden, the mistturnedinto a wisp that slowlymovedtoward the door.From the looks of it, it wasexhaustedand wantedto flee. How could I let this chance go? I held the Sirius Whip andshed hard.


    After every whip, the red mist would cry and weep.Butthewhips power was soon drained, and the red mist took the chance to run away.


    I hurried to check Zhou Tian. His eyes hadreturned to normal, but his facewas twisted in pain. Apparently, he had beenbadlyaffected.


    Ifthiscontinued, although he wouldnt die, his longevity would be shortened. I called his wifeand asked her tocook him a bowl of hot ginger soup.Then, I sat in their living room toregainmyposure.


    If that spirit called Zhou Tians wifebitch,I guessed he had beenbetrayed by his own wife. And, Zhou Tians wife may have had an affair in the past.


    It was an important clue.However, considering the harmony of Zhou Tians family,I wouldnt make use of it for the time being.


    Soon, the woman cooked a bowl of ginger soup and startedfeedingZhou Tian.


    Master, thank you so much. Did you finish dealing with that foul thing?


    I almost spurted out the water I had just drunk.


    I reluctantly exined to her, That thing isnteasyto deal with. I was lucky that I coulddriveit away.Itll take some time to destroyitfor good.


    The woman wasstunned at first. She then looked at her husband, who was lying like a dead pig on the bed, andasked me, Master, do you think Im beautiful?


    Eh? I didntunderstand what she meant.


    She bit her lower lip then suddenly got up, pulling the knot of her nightgown open, which revealed her snow-white skin. She then jumped on me, trying to kiss mylips.


    Everything happened too fast. When I got a hold of myself, the only thing I could hear wasour breathing.


    Ihadnt touched a woman for quite a long time, so I was a little slow to react.


    The woman was emboldened sinceI didntrejecther. She couldnt help fiddling with my buckle. She wassoexcitedthather hands were trembling.


    Zhou Tian suddenly rolled on his bed. I pulled myself together andpushedthe woman aside,startingto read thesacredtext of Daoism. I finally snapped out of it.


    She didnt know what I was doing, so shetriedto get on me another time. She moaned crazily,Give it to me, will you?


    Maam, pleasebehave yourself!


    This time, I got rid of her andrushedto the door. Ilooked at her coldly. I came here to help you deal with the otherworldly item. Ill leave immediately if you keep doing that.


    Zhou Tians wife looked bewildered. Then, she heaved a deep sigh, tearsbrimming inher eyes. Do you think Im an easy woman?


    I looked at her, keeping silent.


    The woman was suddenly stirred up. She pointed at Zhou Tian and yelled,Weve been married for years, and he has never satisfied me, not even once!I haveto take the initiative every time, and he can barely get it up.Ima woman, and I want to feel like one!


    I felt embarrassed. This man looks burly and muscr. How could he be so useless?


    Anyway, I wasnt interested in knowingabout their intimate life. Iforted her andterwent to the guest room to rest.

 Chapter 501: Desperate Battle

    Chapter 501: Desperate Battle


    As soon as iddown, someone banged on the door. It was Zhou Tians wife. She looked worried. Master, my mother-inw just called. She said thattheevil thing hase to trouble her. Please help her!


    Dammit it. I patted my thigh,put on my jacket,and descendedthe stairs. The otherworldly item was hurt. Itwas so angry that it attacked the grannie. Howcould I make such a mistake?


    I leftthe neighborhoodand hopped ina taxi.After givingthe driver five hundredrenminbi, I asked him todriveat maximum speed to the grannies hotel.


    When I enteredthe hostel, I saw the grannie lying on the sofa. She didnt look hurt at all. Iexhaled in relief and asked,Auntie,are you okay?


    She didnt answer me. Instead, she asked,How is my son? Is he safe?


    She wasnton thesame pageasme. I suddenly felt that something was wrong. I frowned. Auntie, after I left, did something happenatthe hostel?


    Im just an old woman. What could happen to me? Auntie noticed my stern faceandseemed to realize something. She quickly asked,Is something the matter?


    Somethingdoesnt feel right. I didnt exin muchand rushedto the single-story house behind the hostel. The box on thealtar table had disappeared.


    The grannie entered the house after me,droppingher jaw in shockright after.Before you came, I checked onceand it was still here. Where did it go?


    It seemsitcouldnt stand still My face darkened.


    I took out thepassand checkedaround the altar. When Imovedinthe Southeast direction, thepass handle shook hard.Thisindicated that there was some Yin energythere and that the box had possibly escapedinthat direction.


    I slowly moved forwardwhile followingthe handle. I then found a one-square-meter wide holeinthe Southeast corner of the house.


    The box must have escaped through that hole. Whenthe granniesaw me frown, she exined, Thats acoal hole. We usedit avery long time agoto throw cinders away.


    Auntie, stay home and wait for me. It was pointless todwell onthis hole further. I told her to stay andentered the hole. Then, I invitedaspiritto carry me.


    Itwassaid thatoneshouldnt opentheireyes whenthey were invitinga carrying spirit. However, I needed to use thepass to track the otherworldly item, soI hadno choice.


    This time, I had invited a little boy wearing a red dudou[1]. His head was giantand his eyes sparkled with a blue light.


    The boy was shivering.Perhapshewas scared of thepass in my hand.Dont worry, kid. Thispass of mine is used to deal with evilspirits. Just take me tomydestination, andI will reward you.


    The boy understood meand movedfaster. I followed thepass handle. Eventually, I confirmed that the box had gone to Zhou Tians house.


    When westopped, Idroppedsome blood on the ground to reward the little boy. A small ghostsuch ashim could easily vanish. Thatwaswhy hehadagreed to help meinexchange for some drops of blood topreservehis soul.


    He wasaself-reliant ghost, whichwasmuch betterthanthe ghosts that harmed people to strengthen themselves!


    I hurried to return to Zhou Tians vi. Before I entered his house, I saw his wife sitting at the entrance with both handscedon her knees.She lifted her head, her nk eyesgazingat the roof. She looked really strange.


    I wanted to ask her what happened, butmotion urred. Things werebeingthrown in the house. I turned and stormed into the house, catchinga wisp of a red shadow flying toward Zhou Tians bedroom.


    Although itmoved very quickly, I had caughtaglimpse of it and sawthat it didnt have legs. Thisspiritdidnt havealower body!


    I noticed that all the movable itemswereonthe ground, like the chairs, table, small decorations, and even the teapot.They were allbroken into pieces.


    I was surprisedand thoughtthat thisspiritwas rather odd. It liked to throw things and wassostrong that it could shatter all of the items.


    I wasdeep in thought when someone suddenlyscreamed in the room. Then, the same throwingmotion resounded.


    All of my defensive tools were left in the grannies hostel. As I had just raced against thespirit, I didnt have time to get them. For now, all I could do was to pick upacactusfromthe groundand dashinto the bedroom.


    The instant I got into the room,ared mist attacked me. I didnt have time to chew the cactusthat the attack hurled metothe ground.


    Cough I felt something sweet in my throat,which made me spitblood. Then,Ifelt a sharp pain inmy chest. I felt asif I was beingdeep-friedwith hot oil.


    Sweatrolleddownmy foreheadas Irolledon the ground like a drug addictin agony, my bodyshaking uncontrobly. I knew I just needed to chew onthepiece of cactus to ease this pain, but my hands were shaking too hard. I couldnt hold anything.


    At thismoment, someone got outofthe room. From the corner of my eye, I was scared to see that it wasZhou Tians wife!


    She had a mockingfaceas she assessedme. With a broken hacksaw de in her hand, she looked downatmeand sneered. Youre courting death!


    It was the spirits voice. Zhou Tians wife was possessed.


    But then, I realizedthat this made no sense at all. If she had been possessed, who was the woman sitting at theentrance?


    Before I could analyze the situation, I felt a sharp painin myankle. I stooped and sweated in fright. The woman was sitting on my thighs. She was usingthe metal hacksaw de to saw my leg! I didnt even haveanystrength in me to resist!


    At the moment my life was at stake, the door sprang open one more time. A dim shadow flew fast toward the womans hand.


    As itcamecloser, I recognized it was the little boy wearingthered dudou; the same boy that hadbroughtme here. He didnt stop when he entered the roomand bitZhou Tians wifesmiddle finger.


    In the human hand, the middle fingercontains most of thebloodessence.Whenever themiddle fingerissqueezed,Yang energywillbe released. Thatiswhy itispopr to use chopsticksto squeeze the middle finger. It can expel the ghost when people are possessed.


    The little boys sudden attackhadsavedme!


    The spirit from the box wasfocusedon sawing my leg, so it couldnt react in time when the boy attacked it. Zhou Tians wife screamed, and the legless red shadow left her body, turningto attack the boy.


    The spiritgrabbedthe boy, making itscream in pain. I gritted my teeth and sat up. I quickly pickedup a piece of cactusand chewed it. Soon, the heat expanded in my mouth, and the pain in my chestsubsided.


    Screwyou!


    Icouldnt think of other ways of attackingthespirit,soI bitthe tip of my tongue andspatthe blood on thespirit. The red shadow sizzledand fumedsmoke.


    It released the boyas it felt the danger. Then, like a tiger watching itsprey, thespiritred atme.


    I knewthe spiritwasfrightenedand hesitant,but after I hadspat my blood,I didnt have any other means to attack it. The ball cactus could keep me safe, but it couldnt help the boy.


    Neither of usmadeamove. We just staredat each other in a deadlock.


    I knew it would attack me soon, so I madea bet.I turned and picked up the Sirius Whip. Ipretendedto read some spells anshed atthe spirit.


    Thespirithesitated for only one second. Then,before the whip could hit it, it turned into a red mistand fled.When itpletely disappeared,I heaved a sigh of reliefand slumpedtothe ground.


    The boy flew to meand gaveme a shy smile.At thismoment, I didntfind himas terrifying as before.His smile wasrather kind. Isaid, Kid, you want to follow me, right?


    My grandpa used to tell me thatlonelylittle ghosts often wanted to stay with otherworldly merchantsbecausethey didnt want tovanish forever.


    If they were luckyandfollowed the right master, they couldeven revive. The little Daoist boy Chuyi had kept was a good example.He, too, had the chance toe back to life. Unfortunately, he perished to help me.


    It was a goodmoveto adopt a little ghost. They weredifferent fromtheevil ghostswhoharmed people. However,I didnt have the habit of keeping ghosts with me. I just wanted to find a suitable ghost for Chuyi.


    Indeed, the little boy nodded when I asked him. Then, he stooped his headand yedwith his fingers, notdaringto look at me.


    I guessed he was afraid that I wouldrejecthim. I smiled at him and found a piece of white paper. I foldeda crane,dropped a bit of blood on it,and gestured tothe little ghost to enter the crane.


    The boy jumped in joy. He got on his knees and gave me three kowtows before turning into a wisp of smoke. Then, he enteredthe paper crane.


    I put the craneinmy wallet and went to the bedroom. Zhou Tian wasweaklybreathing, still on his bed. The bronze box was ced next to him.


    It seemed thespiritwas scared andhadntreturned to the otherworldly item.The situationwas exactly what I wanted!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dudou

 Chapter 502: Dragon-Shaped Ancient Jade

    Chapter 502: Dragon-Shaped Ancient Jade


    I pondered for a while then put the box on the floorand usedmy blood to draw some swords and sabers around it. I also sprinkled ayer of salt onthedrawings.


    After everything was done, I noddedin satisfaction. Thatspirithad both of its legs chopped off, soI guessed it would be terrifiedofswords.Swords and sabers drawnwithblood and refined salt were top Yang tools. Iwas surethat they could scare the spirit a lot.


    To avoidasuddenattackfrom thespirit, I asked the little boy to return to the hostel and fetch my bag. I told him to not alert the grannie there.


    I was a little embarrassed as I had ordered the boy to work for me right after I had adopted him. The little boy looked happyand hoppedaway.


    After he left, I had nothing to do. I decided to take care of Zhou Tians wife. But then,I realizedthat she wasnt breathing, and herbody was a little stiff.


    Ihad a sudden realization. The woman I saw out there wasntanother person. It was her soul!


    While I was distracted, thespirittook the chanceto possess her and evict her soul. Then, it deceived meand mademe return to the hostel.


    Aftereverything was cleared up, I feltscared. If I hadnt learned the spell to inviteguidingspirits, Zhou Tian and his wife would have been killed today.


    Iimmediatelywent out of the house. The womans soul was still sitting there. I exhaled in reliefand readthe soul-sucking spell to put her into a paper crane.


    Less than ten minutester, the little boy returned with my bag. I opened the bag and found my talismans and the Peach Soul Flower. I felt much more assuredwith my tools.


    Little Lin, I have to put her soul back into her body.Wait for me outsideand done in, I said to the little boy asI pointed at Zhou Tians wife.Sincehissoul wasnt stable,ifI read the spell to putthe wifessoul back into her body, he would also be affected. At that time, it would be awkwardifher bodyended up withtwo souls in it.


    I had named the little boyLin,short for Jiulin. He looked pleased with the name. He smiled and flewout of the house.


    I alsosmiled. Then, I turned off all the lights in the vi and lit up a candle, cingit in front ofthe wifeshead. I released her soul from the paper craneand chantedthe spell to make it return to the body.


    Somesay thatbeckoning soulsisaplicated task,while others say it issimple. In fact,itwasntdifficult to perform the soul beckoning technique, but great importancy in the reason as to why the soul left the body, the time the soulwasaway from the body, and the distance between the soul and the body. Whenthe conditions were right, we could naturally putasoul backinthe body!


    I ced her on the bed and put Little Lin into the paper crane. Then, I stuckspirit talismansinevery corner of the house.After I had confirmedthat thespiritcouldnt enter the ce, idon the sofaand fesleep.


    When I woke up, it was noon the next day. I found myself sleeping on a bed. Zhou Tian and his wife hadprobablymoved methere.


    When I leftthe room, I saw Zhou Tian talking with his mother in the living room while his wife was cooking. Then,she also joined the conversation. It wastheharmonious picture of a happy family.


    I was puzzled and thought,How didZhou Tian change his nature? Howdidhe be so filial all of a sudden?


    I had nned to deal with thespiritandteachhim alesson. Since hehade back to his senses on his own, I didnt need to doanything.


    I cleared my throatand walkedtoward them. Auntie, when did youe here?


    When they heardmy voice, the three of themstopped talkingand lookedat me. Zhou Tianwasnt rude this time. When he saw me, hequicklygoton his kneesand thankedme for saving his life.


    His wife didnt kneel, but she looked thankfs she stood there. However, herexpression waplicated. I guessed she rememberedthat shehad tried to seduce mest night. I gave her a faint smile, hinting her to forget about it. Then, I turned tolook atthe grannie. She had a ster cast on her thigh.


    Auntie, what happened? I was flustered.


    Wehavea proverb thatsaysone should rest one hundred days iftheygeta bone injury.Foran old woman like her, itmight as wellbea dooming injury. Moreover, she was still all rightst night. Howdid this happen?


    Son, dont worry. I just tripped. The grannie looked happy. I noticed that she was looking here and there, assessing the house. Perhaps it was the first time shehadeto visit her sons house after he got married.


    Compared to this happiness, the injury on her leg was nothing. The grannie didnt want to tell me, so I turned to her son. Zhou Tian, what happened?


    His eyes reddened. He got on his knees again after he had just got up. He faced his mother and wept. Mother, Im so sorry!


    Yesterday, after I finished dealing with thebox, Ifell asleep right awayand didnt call the grannie to tell her thateverything was allright. It turned out the old woman was worriedabouther son and daughter-inw, so she came here from her hostelin the middle of the night.


    Since she was old,her limbs werent good anymore. She tripped midwayand had to crawl the rest of the trip to this neighborhood. Eventually, she fainted at the neighborhood entrance.


    Early in the morning, a janitor found her and took her to the hospital. Otherwise, she would have beenfrozento death.


    When Zhou Tian and his wife woke upin themorning, they found the mess on the ground and me sleeping on the couch. They remembered the situationst nightand felt guilty.


    Right before death, peoplewould often have a change of heart.Zhou Tian hadsurvived a cmity, and hissoulwas reborn. When the hospital called, he immediately rushed there to see his mother.


    At the same time, the scenes where hismothercaredfor him appeared in hismind. Zhou Tian was nowa changed man.


    Hecried unceasingly as he talked. The motheralsosobbed. I was touched by the atmosphereand secretly wipedmy tears.


    Brother Zhou Tian, itsnevertoote.


    I rubbed my eyesand saidrighteously, As long as you dont hurt Aunties heart, youve already shown your filial piety to her.


    Nopersoncould repayeverything their parents had done for them. It was already a fortune thattheydidnt disappoint them!


    Anyway, the box was stillwhereit was cedst night, and the blood swords and sabers remainedon the ground.However,I found some burned talismans on the window. It seemed that thespirithade back one more timest night. The talismans had scared itoff, so it didnt dare to intrude the room.


    AsIhadthe box here, the spirit would definitelye again.


    After a few confrontations, I became interested in thisspirit. After lunch, the sun was high in the sky,which produceda scorching light. I took this chance and used a cutting machine to open the box.


    The moment the box was opened, a dazzling halo radiated. Instinctively, I closed my eyes. When I opened my eyes again, I saw something wrappedina handkerchief.


    I picked it up. The item felt heavy and tough. I took another look and dropped my jaw in awe.


    This handkerchief was made of gold threads and there were dragons embroideredon it. Even though I couldnt recognize the age ofthehandkerchief, from its colors and workmanship,I knew it was a royal item.


    In ancient times,peoplethat could use things with the drawings of dragons belonged to the noble and royal ss.


    I couldnt wait to unwrap the handkerchief to see the thing inside. It turned out to be a piece of jade that didnt havearegrshape.


    Of course, working in the antique business, I had a profound knowledge of jade. At first nce, I recognized it was a really old jade that could be dated back to the pre-Qin era.


    There were many types of jadewith different prices. Compared to gold and silver, jade was oftensold atpriceshigherthanitsreal value. Moreover, texture and colors were important factors that affected the value of the jade.Even though this jade was a real antique, itdidnt have a regrshape. Coupledwiththedefects on the body, the jades value was greatly reduced.


    Master Zhang, is this jade valuable? Zhou Tian sounded excited. However, from his look, I knew he understood nothing about jade.


    I told him the truth.Its an antique, but its not worth much.


    Zhou Tian gave me a nodand lookeda little disappointed.I suddenlyrealizedthat I hadnt told them the rules ofourbusiness beforehand.I feltawkward now.

 Chapter 503: Pursuing the Culprit

    Chapter 503: Pursuing the Culprit


    Although the jade wasnt that valuable, it was better than nothing. Moreover,thehandkerchief could be soldata high price. I didnt want to let this chance slip away,but I didnt know how tobring it up.


    Fortunately, I had chatted with the grannie about the business of otherworldly merchantsbefore. She patiently exined to her son,Son, you shouldntset your eyeson these things. Master Zhang has saved our lives. Give all of these to him.


    You have a point. Moreover,I dont want to live the rest of my lifein fear Zhou Tian decided to give upand agreed readily.


    I just smiled. Well talk againwhenIm done dealing with that thing.


    I wrapped up theboxand asked everybody to return toGrannies hotel.


    Thatafternoon, I went to the orchard nearbyand boughtmany peach trees. Then, I headed tothe market to buy a sharp sickle.


    Zhou Tian curiously followed methe entiretime. Master Zhang, I knowthatpeach woodcanexpel evil spirits. Butwhat about the sickle?


    Youll see soon. I smiledwithout exining further.


    We thenwent to their old, single-story cottage. I nted the peach stakes around the altarandusedtheremainingonesto arrange a path from the altar to thecoal hole.


    You want to entice that evil spirittoe here?Zhou Tian could seewhat I was doing, buthe was a little puzzled. If you want to lure it here, you shouldnt block the table.Otherwise, it wont dare toe closer andwill run away!


    Yeah, thats theoueI want.Allotherworldlyspirits haveone thing inmonthey cant leave the otherworldly item for a long time.Otherwise,they will be swallowed by the Yang energy in the world outside. Ifthe spiritcanlivefor a long time outside the otherworldly item, Im sure theres something else it can take shelter in.


    If the main otherworldly item was a jade from the pre-Qin period, thesecondaryitemshould also be valuable. I guessed I could have an unexpected harvest this time.


    There was anotherpossibility, though.Someonemight have wantedto harm the grannie and her old husband. That person might have plottedagainst them, causing them tounearth the otherworldly item. And now, since thespiritdidnt dare to confront me, it had probably returned to its master.Thiswas the worst possibility.


    However, since everything hade to this, I had to clench myteethandmove forward.


    How can I help you? asked Zhou Tian.


    I knew he wanted to do something for me, but I didnt have anything that I needed his help with. I asked him to take his wife and mother to the hostel and wait for me there.As long as they didnt cause me anytrouble, it would be enough.


    Theskygrewdarkerand the temperature graduallydropped. I hid in a corner of the old cottage with the sickle in my hand.I carefully watched thecoal hole.


    After that fight with thespiritearlier, I was certain that I could protect myself. However,I wasnt sure if I could subdue it.


    Therefore, I woulddestroyits shelterto forceit out. Afterward, I would negotiate with itand increase my odds.


    Waiting wasnt pleasant. The closer it was to midnight, the more restless Ibecame.I thought for a moment andced thepass next to me.


    EvenifI didnt noticeanything,as long asthepass handle moved, it would createarattling noise.


    I had lost track of the timeas I waited, but all of a sudden, I heardarattling noisee from the hole. I pulled myself togetherand heldthe sickle tighter.It had finallyarrived!


    However, the rattling noise soon disappeared, and thepass didnt reactthe whole time.


    Whats going on? I muttered to myself, frowning.


    Right asI was about to go there to check, I heard Zhou Tianscreamfrom the hostel. Help! Please help!


    It seemed thespirithad realizedthat I had set upatrap in the cottage, so it went tothe hostel to trouble Zhou Tian. My heart sank. I dropped the sickle and rushed to the hostel.


    The scream came from the lobby. When Igotthere, Ididnt see anybody.I was bewilderedand prepared to go upstairs.Then, I heard someone descend the stairs.


    Zhou Tian was rushing downstairs with a worried face. When he saw me, he heaved a sigh of relief, gaspingfor his breath. Master, whoscreamedfor help? His voicewasthe sameasmine!


    Not good. Wewerefooled!Iimmediatelyreturnedto the cottage. However,the box I had ced on the altar table was gone!


    At the same time, my peach stake formation wasstillintact. None of the stakeshadmoved.Thismeant that it wasntaspirit who tookthe box.Aliving person had doneit.


    Ifa human came, my peach formation wouldntactivate. It seemed my guesswas correct. There was someone behind that otherworldly item!


    I noticedsomething else, too.This otherworldly itemhad targetedZhou Tian thisentire time. It didntattackanyone else.


    I wondered,Did Zhou Tian do something that made peoplehatehim?


    I didnt know why,but I turned to look at Zhou Tian. He became worriedand wavedhis hand. Master, why are you looking at me? What should we do now?


    After hearinghis question, I pulled myself together. I gave Zhou Tian several talismansand askedhim to stay in the hostndprotect his mother. Then, I crawled out of the holeinthe wall and began torun.


    Behind the old cottage was a small alley that wasnearlyblocked with misceneousitems.WhenIgotthere, Ididnt see anything on either side.


    Feeling helpless, I had to release Little Lin, askinghim to find the boxs location. It was good that the boy had fought against the red mistyesterday. He was soon able to trackthe directionin which theboxwastaken.


    Brother, hop on. Ill takeyou there!


    Ill check the situation first. You should go back.


    I retrieved Little Linand puthim into the paper crane. Then, I dashed in the direction he had told me.


    Although Little Lin could take me there faster, that personwas able tosteal the otherworldly item under my watch. Itmeant that hehadimpressive skills anda cunning mind.


    If that personattackedLittle Lin,Little Linwouldnt be able toescape.Unless I was in a helpless situation, I wouldntexposeLittle Lin to the dark hand behind all ofthis.


    Fortunately, the nearby areawas ina developing zone. The small alley led to abigconstruction site.


    I scanned thearea.Steel bars were used to fence the ce, and there was no one walking on the street at this moment.Thislocation wasconvenient for me. AfterI had run aroundfor a while, I saw a rickety figure slowlywalking ahead of me.


    The old man looked suspicious. He was limpingon the streets alone at midnight.Sincehe was slow,I walked around the fenceand followedhim, keeping somedistance at first.


    As the distance between us shortened, I saw the thing he was holdingagainsthis chest. It was the bronze box.


    Instinctively, I yanked the Yin and Yang Umbre frombehindand preparedto strike. The man seemedto havesensedmy movements. He haltedand turnedaround to look.


    There was a signboard next tome. Before the old man could see me, Iquicklyhid behindit.


    However, the old man keptncingat the position where Iwas standing justa moment ago.


    My skin crawled.Was I busted?


    Then, a familiar voice cried behind me. Subconsciously, I turned aroundand saw the red misttrying to hitmy chest.


    Damn it! Here ites again! I cursedand swiftly movedaside to dodge thespirits attack. Ithenused the Heavenly Dipper Step, wieldingmy Yin and Yang Umbre to shoo the mist away.


    The old man had spotted me, so he had released thespiritto pester me, which gave him time to run. I knew the old man was the keyto thiscase.To get rid of the attack, I used my whole force. The ck and white power of the Yin and Yang Umbre broke through the red mist.


    I seized the chance and opened the Yin and Yang Umbre, spinningit. The red mist was shatteredand vanished into the air.


    Ithen felt thatsomething was wrong. Yesterday, when I used the Sirius Whip to hit the mist, thespiritreturned to its original form, which was a legless ghost.But now, I was using the mighty Yin and Yang Umbre to deal with it, and it hadnt made a soundeven thoughtheumbrewasmuch more powerful than the Sirius Whip!


    Before I could make sense of the situation, Ifelta twinge at the soles of my feet. Right after that, I couldnt stand anymoreand fellto the ground.


    At the same time, I saw thespiritcrawling toward me with a sneer onhisface. Iunderstoodit now. The red mist from before was just an illusion!


    Before I could get up, thespiritflew up from the ground,aimingat my head with the hammer andchisel in his hands.


    If Iwashit, my head wouldliterally explode. Ibegan to sweat.


    I grittedmy teeth and rolled twice to dodgehisfatal attack. Right after that, Iaimedthe Yin and Yang Umbre at his chest.


    Thespiritdidnt expect me to be that fast.Due to that short moment ofhesitation, the Yin and Yang Umbre hit him. Dazzling sparks appeared at his chest. Helet out an agonizing scream,then turnedinto a mass of red mist thatchased after the old man.


    After itwasgone, Igot up with the help ofthe Yin and Yang Umbre and looked around.Unfortunately,the old man had already disappeared.


    Moreover, my feet were hurting. Even if I could catch up to him, Iwouldnt be able todo anything.I triedtoignorethe painand slowlyreturned to the hostel.


    After a while, I saw Zhou Tian. I became more cautiousand pointedtheumbre at him. Who the hell are you?


    Master Zhang, Im Zhou Tian. My motherwasworried thatyou werein danger,so she asked me to help you. Luckily, theres a camera at the back door. Otherwise, Iwouldnt have foundyou. Zhou Tian suddenly paused.He looked shocked when he saw my shaking legs. In a panic, he asked,Master Zhang, what happened to you?

 Chapter 504: Heshibi

    Chapter 504: Heshibi


    I didnt talk, but slowly limpedtowardhim. Withthst bit of my strength, I took out a talisman and palmed it on him. Zhou Tian shook a little bit when Ihithim.


    What are you doing? He was puzzled.


    No Nothing.


    He was the real Zhou Tian. I exhaled in relief. My eyes rolled to the back of myhead, andI lost consciousness.


    When I woke up again, I found myself ina hospitalbed. I was the onlypersoninthepatient room. I sat upand shookmy heavy head, realizingthat I had fainted due to blood loss.


    I didnt know how long I had been sleepingorwhat had happened duringthetime I was knocked out, soI felt really worried.


    If that otherworldly itemattackedwhile I was in the hospital, Zhou Tian must haveencounteredgrave danger.


    I decided to getout ofbed, butI feltasharp paininmyfeet. I lifted the nket and saw that both of my feet were bandaged.


    Damn it!Ame of anger burned in my heart. I punched the wall.


    Hurting thesoles ofyourfeetwasdifferent from having a wound elsewhere.IfIcouldnt walk,Iwouldnt be different from a wolf without fangs.Icould only wait for death.


    I understood that I couldnt finish this casealone. I decided to call ChuyiandSenior Shuand ask for their help,butI couldnt find my mobile phone anywhere.I was at a loss and didnt know what to do.


    Then, the door to my room waspushed open, and aman wearing bcoat entered. He wore a pair of thick sses and a big surgical mask. Hesmiledwhen he saw me.


    I could see only his eyes, but I noticed a trace of maliciousintentinthem. I suddenly had a bad premonition. I hurried to grab the fruit knife on my bedside table and asked,Who are you?


    UmhHe looked embarrassedwhenhe sawthat I wasstirred up.Someone sent you an express delivery parcel. Im here to give it to you.


    Then, he moved a big carton box into the room and left.


    I exhaled in relief. Although I still felt something was wrong, I couldnt point out whatit was.I didnt think muchof it and triedto get off my bed to open the box.


    Whosentthis box to me?BesidesZhou Tians family,didsomeone else knowthat I washospitalized?


    My intuition told me that this boxdidnt contain anythinggood. However, my curiosity got the best of me. I couldnt helpbut usethe fruit knife to open the carton box.


    I was shocked at first nceas the bronze box was inside the carton box!


    I now remembered what it was that made me feeluneasy. That doctor must be theculpritbehindall this. Perhaps I had met him before.That waswhy he wore a mask when he cameinto myroom.


    But why did he want to return the otherworldly item to me?


    Before I could figure out the reason, my chestfelt heavy.Iloweredmy head andsawthespiritgetting out of the box. It had turned into a red mistand surroundedme.


    Soon, everything in front of mebecameblood red. My entire body was in pain. I couldnt breathe,and I felt my vitality being sucked away.


    AsI thought I was about to die, the pressure on my body disappeared. I was surprisedto see thatthe mist had transformed into a human shadowand fledthrough the open window.


    Then, I heard hurried footsteps outside. The door sprang open again. This time,it was Chuyi. He hadetomyrescue!


    When I saw him, I felta lot better.I wanted to greet him, but I was too weak to get up. I couldnt even make a sound. I tried my best to squeeze out asmile.


    Chuyis sword-like brows mmed together when he sawmy state.When henoticedthe box next to me, his eyes immediatelyturned tothe window.


    He shouted, Stay here, dont move.


    Then, he jumped through the window like a lightning bolt.


    After Chuyi left, Zhou Tian came in. He carefully walked over the bronze box, then lifted me to the bed.Next, he took my phone out of his pocketand gaveit back to me.


    Ilooked at him, and heunderstoodwhat I meant. He smiled and toldme the details. I had been unconscious for one night and one day. During this time, Zhou Tian went to pick up Chuyi.


    It turned out Chuyi had recently wanted to release around one thousand caged animals tocollect good karma. He wanted to take me with him, so he tried calling me. However, Zhou Tianpicked upthe callin my stead and toldhim everything. As such, Chuyi immediately came over to help me.


    Zhou Tian couldnt help but praise him. Master Zhang, your friends reallyincredible. When hereachedthe corridor, he alreadyknew thatthespirit wasin your ward


    Haha.I felt much more at ease now.


    That spiritwas hurtst night, so it didnt trouble Zhou Tian. Today, it came to kill me but Chuyi interfered. Wasthis fate?


    I guessed so.


    Around half an hourter, Chuyi returned. He didnt look pleasedand soundeda little frustrated. That thing ran too fast. I couldnt catch up with it.


    Youre too intimidating.He was soscaredthathe ran for his life! I could joke nowthatmy strengthhadrecovered a bit.


    I got offthebed and went to open the bronze box.After I gaveChuyi the gold-threaded handkerchief and the piece of broken jade, Istopped smiling and said seriously,This is the otherworldly item. Do yourecognizeit?


    Chuyi didnt answer me right away. At first, he studied the gold-threaded handkerchief. Then, his cold eyes assessed the jade, his face quicklyturningserious.


    When I sawhis reaction, my heart became tense. Zhou Tian also didntdare to breathe aloud. The two of usnervously watched Chuyi.


    A momentter, he said, I got it!


    What is it?


    This is Heshibi! Chuyi showedanexcited face for the first time. Hisfair-skinned, oval faceflushed with color.


    I couldnthide my shock, either. Inever would have imaginedthat this ordinary-looking jade was the legendary Heshibi. It wasMr. Hes jade!


    However, my enthusiasm soon disappeared. I thought Chuyi was wrong.


    I didnt doubt his keen eyes, butording to historicalrecords, after the Kingdom ofQin destroyed the six other kingdoms, Emperor Qin Shihuang orderedhis mento carve the Heirloom Seal of therealm out of the Heshibi.


    From that day on, the Heirloom Sealbecamethe supreme symbol of the emperor. Generationspeted for it before it disappeared in the long river of history.


    Even though it wasalong time ago, the Heirloom Seal shouldnt bethis low-quality piece of jade.


    Chuyi understood my doubts and exined, Heshibi was a perfectandwless jade, but the Heirloom Sealdidnt consume the whole thing. If Im not wrong, this otherworldly item is the jade that was left after they made the Heirloom Seal.


    Its possible, Zhou Tiansaid. He strokedthe broken jade. It looks like the extra material left after something was made out of it.


    Chuyi nodded. Do you know Bianhe, the man who lived in the Spring and Autumn Period?


    I do.Bianhe sailed to theWest. Hes ineverytextbook. Before I could answer, Zhou Tian spoke.He even smiled at Chuyi to earn his favor. It seemed he had be Chuyis new fan.


    I felt awkwardand let outa dry cough. I correctedhim.Zheng He was the one that sailed West. Bianhe was the first onein historyto discoverHeshibi.


    Then, I suddenlyrealized something and askedChuyi in fright,Are you saying thatBianhes thespirit?


    Yeah. Otherwise, how could you exin his legless shape? Chuyisaidfirmly.


    I remembered the story now.


    It was said thatBianhe was a very hard-working farmerwho lived inthe ChuKingdom during the Spring and Autumn Period. One day, he found a stone that contained an uncut jade.He offered it to King Li of Chu. King Li asked jade experts to assess the stone. Theyconcludedthat it was just a stone. King Li was angryand usedBianheoffoolinghim. Bianhes punishment for his apparent deception wasamputation of hisleft foot.


    Soon, King Li died, andKing Wu took the throne. Bianheofferedthis rough jade to him. King Wu also asked jade experts to examine the jade.The result was the same.It was just a stone. King Wu punishedBianhesdeception by chopping off his right foot


    After King Wupassed away, King Wen took the throne. Bianhe held hisjade and criedfor three days at a mountain foothill. When his tears dried, his eyes startedbleeding. King Wen heard his storyand senthis people to askhim a question.There are many peoplewho have receivedthe foot amputation punishment, butthey didntbe like this. Whyare you desperate?


    Bianhe answered, Im notcryingbecause oftheamputation.Imcryingbecause peoplehave said thatmy jade is just a stone. The future generations willnever be able to see this precious jade!


    King Wen asked people to cut the stone. Indeed, the stone contained a crystal of magnificent jade. King Wen then named the jadeHeshibi.


    Later on, Emperor Qin ShihuangreceivedHeshibiand madehis Heirloom Seal out of it. They carved a lhat wrote, Having received the Heavenly Mandate, may (the emperor) lead a long and prosperous life. This imperial sealbecamethe symbol of the emperors of all dynasties.


    I had to admitthatChuyihad sharpeyes. Thatspiritdidnt havefeetand he cried every time. These features matched Bianhe. However, I didnt understand why Bianhehad be a spirit. After all,Heshibiwas now well-known all over the nation.Moreover, who was that old man? Why did he want to use the otherworldly item to kill Zhou Tian?


    I threw these questionsatChuyi. He rubbed his temples and thought for a moment. Then, he picked up the gold-threaded handkerchiefand studiedit carefully.


    I understood that Bianhes actions probably had something to do with this gold-threaded handkerchief!

 Chapter 505: The Fox Spirit

    Chapter 505: The Fox Spirit


    Not long afterward, Chuyi smoothed his furrowed browsand nced atme and Zhou Tian. Then, without saying a word, he closedthe window. Afterward, he drew his eight-facedHan swordand stabbedthe gold-threaded handkerchief.


    He just wanted to force the thing inside teout, so he withdrew the sword as soon as he touched the cloth.


    The gold-threaded handkerchief sizzled. Then, we heard a seductive womansvoice. Ouch, why did you have to pokeme there


    This voice was so captivating that mymouthfelt dry. Instinctively, I read thesacredtext of Daoism to calm down. Zhou Tian covered his crotchand headedto the toilet.


    When I pulled myself together,I saw a beautifulwomaeout of the handkerchief. She wore a white fox fur upper garmentand a skirt madeof translucent gauze.Her entire body looked mesmerizing, especially herseductive andcharming eyes. She lookeda lotlike thelegendary fox spiritDaji.


    When she noticed that I was looking at her,she saidsweetly,A moment ofloveisworth more than housand gold ingots. I can tell you are already tired. How about you rest here with me?


    She then undressedand crossed her legs,putting a finger in her mouth. Herother handgestured to metogoto her.


    Icouldntresist thetemptation andwanted tojumponher. Chuyi drew his sword again. This time, he used all of his strengthto stabthrough the gold-threaded handkerchief.


    The woman shrieked painfully. She turnedinto a mass of mistand dispersed. Inoticedthat the handkerchiefhad lost its luster.Moreover, the part that Chuyi had stabbed started to oozeack liquid.


    What happened? I asked.


    That woman wasntChuyisopponent, and when Chuyi dealt with spirits, he always chose to help them ascend. This time, he didnt even give the woman time to talk. Iwas puzzled as he hadkilledherinone strike.


    If she didnt die, Bianhe would never rest Chuyi picked up the handkerchiefand handedit to me. He askedme to sniff it. I cocked my headand tookasniffof the strong,foul smell. I couldnt help but frown.


    Was that woman a fox spirit?


    Yeah, she was a fox spirit. This sort of spirit alwaysseducesmen to suck their essence. I dontknow who trapped this fox spirit inside thisgold-threaded handkerchief, but sincethe handkerchiefandthe Heshibi were in contactfor quite a long time, the two spirits must havefelt each others existence. I think the fox spirit might have tried toseduceBianhe.


    Bianhe was known for beingnoble and virtuous, so hewouldnt fall forthe foxs enticement. Left with no choice, he was forced to be anotherworldlyspirit,Chuyi exined to me.


    I nodded.We didnt need to show mercy to this sort ofbeastlyspirit. Even though theyhada human form, they didnt have ahumanheart. We couldnt tame them or teach them.However,Ifelt sorry for losing thegold-threaded handkerchief.


    Chuyi unwrapped the bandage on my footandsprinkled glutinous rice powder on the wound. My soles felt itchy, soIsubconsciouslywanted to scratch the wound. Chuyi grabbed my handand said in a serious voice,Dont move.Im going to expel the Yin energy in your wounds.


    As heincreasedhis force, I gradually got used to the feeling of paininmy feet. I could feel the movement of cold currents in my body, which headed to my soles. Soon, the pure white powder turnedpitchck.


    He thentook out a smallcontainerfrom his bag andsqueezed out somepaste that looked like toothpaste. He appliedittomy wounds. The pain was so sharp that Iscreamed.Zhou Tian and Chuyi held my limbs tightly.They didnt release me until my feet feltpletely numb.


    Surprisingly,thepain was gone shortly after. Ilookedat myfeet and sawthat thewounds hadclosed. I tried towalka few steps.There was nopain at all!


    I felt happyand pattedChuyis shoulder. You''re incredible. If you have time, can you teach me?


    Haha. It was rareforChuyitoughout loud. Then, with a cold face, he asked, Do you know where that old mans hiding?


    I pulled myself together. At that time,he noticed meas I wasfollowing him, soIdontknow where hes staying. However, sincehe justcamehere to finish me off,Im sure heleftatrace.


    With that thought, I rushed downstairs with Chuyi. We bribed the guardso that we couldcheck the surveince cameras. Soon, we saw the old man leaving my ward. He went downstairs,took off hibcoat and mask,and leftthe hospital.


    A few hundred meters away from the hospital was an intersection, so we couldnt guess which direction hewent in.


    Chuyi sighed.If my little Daoist boywashere, hewould have been able to trackthe old mans Yang energy.


    I now remembered that IhadLittle Lin. I released him from the paper crane.


    Little Lin was excited. But as he was about toroll and jump around, he saw Chuyi.Theboy immediately paledand rushedback to me. He hid behindmy shoulder.It seemed hefelt threatened byChuyi.


    Dont be scared. Hes on our side. I smiledand rubbedthe boys head. Then, I poutedand saidto Chuyi,What do you think? I adopted him for you.


    Chuyi gavethe boya faint nceand asked,Why are you afraid of me?


    Little Lin lowered his head.


    Because youre intimidating, he answered slowly.


    Chuyi nodded. He bit his fingeruntil it bled and brought itto Little Lins mouth. I could tell he liked this little ghost. Instinctively, Little Lin moved forwardto drinkChuyis blood. However,at thst moment, he pausedand looked at me with hesitation.


    I felt touchedand nodded.Go, boy! Hes stronger than me. He can help yourevivefaster.


    Little Lin happily drank Chuyis blood, bing his newlittle footman.


    Chuyi asked Little Lin to smell the old mans Yang energy from the bronze box.The boyfollowed the smend roamedaround the hospital. In the end, hewas able todiscoverthe old mans whereabouts.All of usimmediately rushedafterhim.


    On the way there, Isawthat Zhou Tiandidnt look toogood. When wewerechecking the surveince cameras,I had already noticedhis strange look. I was afraid that something had happened to himwhenwewerentpaying attention. Hey, are you okay?Is something the matter?


    No, itsnothing. Im okay. Zhou Tian shook his headand triedto look normal. He walkedahead of us.Now, I was even more sure that there was something wrong with him.


    Chuyiquietlyreached his hand to stop me. I turned to himand saw himncing atZhou Tian. My heart sank, and I became more vignt.


    After followingLittle Lin for a while,we reachedthe constructionsiteIwas at yesterday. It seemed the old man was heading home.When we reached the iron bar fence, Little Lin stopped. Hebecame flustered and scannedthe ce.


    Iwas already tense, soI quicklygrabbedthe Yin and Yang Umbreand carefullywatchedthe ground under my feet. Chuyi also drew his eight-facedHan sword, pressing his back against mine.Wescanned oursurroundings, butthe ce was dead silent. There was nothing strangeabout it.


    A momentter, Chuyi put his sword backinits sheathand lookedat Little Lin skeptically.Did you make a mistake?


    Little Lin shook his head. Hisfacelookedrestlessas he lookedaround. However, he couldnt locate the target.


    Eventually, Chuyi waved his hand. Dont worry. Just take us there with yoursenses.


    Little Lin was scared but listened to Chuyi.


    We continued walking a few more miles.We started to see fewerstructures and construction sites, while the number ofpaddy fields and random wooden lodges increased. From a distance, the lodges looked small and dark. I wondered if people lived there.


    Suddenly, I heard Zhou Tianscream from a wooden lodge a few hundred meters away. I was aghastand turnedto check. Zhou Tian wasnt with us!


    Whats going on?!


    Chuyi alsonoticedthat Zhou Tian had disappeared. He frownedand asked, Who is this Zhou Tian?


    I told Chuyi the truth.I dont know iftheres something wrong with him, but the otherworldly itemhas beentargetinghim sincethe beginning.


    Ever since wecameto this area, Chuyi and I had paid attention tooursurroundings toseeif the enemy would attack, forgetting aboutZhou Tian. We didnt even knowwhenhedisappeared.


    However, I was sure that when Little Lin stoppedearlier, Zhou Tian was still with us. At that time, he was holding the bronze box, and hisexpression was strange. With this sudden memory, I panicked. WasLittle Lin flusteredbecause of Zhou Tian?


    We have no time to think about that! Chuyi didnt lingerand sprintedtoward the lodge in the far distance. With my feet wounded, I was much slower than him. Intheblink of an eye, he wasalreadyten meters ahead of me. As I was about to run after him, a force held me from behind. Instantly, I feltaburning pain.

 Chapter 506: Father and Child

    Chapter 506: Father and Child


    My heart sank. Thespiritwas here!


    Iattacked withthe Yin and Yang Umbreas Iturned around.However, thespiritwastoo fast.WhileI wasin the middle of my attack, he had already backed offand returnedto his footless ghost form.


    Bianhe, stop it!


    I somewhat admired this persistent historical figure. Moreover, what he had experienced was verytragic, soIdidnt want to hurt him further.


    Thespiritignored me. Heughed strangely andturnedinto a red mist that came toward me.Blood drained from my face. I hurried to spinthe Yin and Yang Umbre, forcingthe red mist to back off.


    Given the circumstances, I could only hold my ground and was unable to helpChuyi.IfIgot distracted, Bianhe would immediately storm toward me. Theworstthing was that I couldnt hurt him. After one night of recovering, Bianhe seemed to be much stronger.


    My strength was draining and my movements were slowing down.Eventually, I had to shift my strategy from defending to attacking. I read theBigDipper Sirius Spend got ready to attack withthe Sirius Whip.


    The Sirius Whip released amagnificentred glow when the spell was activated. I gritted my teethand prepared to use all of my remainingstrength toshat the spirit. Bianhecouldnt react in time and seemed scared.


    Whenmywhip was about to hit him, I felta tinge of regret. After all, thisstrike was enough to destroy his soul.But to my surprise,when my strike hit him, he didnt scream or flinch.


    How could it be? I dropped my jaw in surpriseand lookedat Bianhe.


    Ibecame aghastwhen I realizedthat I was encircled by many sneering ghosts!


    Thespirithad learned to clone itself, andI had justdestroyedone of his cloneswhile the real one was unhurt.


    In the meantime,I had used up my strength, and my legsfelt likejelly.I staggeredandndedon my butt.


    Bianhesmiled maliciously. He opened his mouthand blewred mist toward me.


    I was surrounded, andI didnt have any strength left to wield the Sirius Whip. At the moment my life was at stake, Chuyi cameand chanted amysterious spellthatsounded rather pleasant to the ears. Then, he drew his eight-facedHan sword out ofitssheath. The sword released acoldblue light.


    You evildoer! You see me, an immortal,andyoudont kneel?


    Immortal Lu Dongbins voice camefromChuyis mouth.After hearinghis voice, I heaved a sigh of relief. At the same time, I felt a little irritated. He wasnt being fair. When I invited him, he lingered and wasnt willing to help.Meanwhile,Chuyicould call him at any time.


    Bianhe was bewildered when he heard Lu Dongbinsshout. The red mistthat was attackingmewas gone; hisclonesalso disappeared.


    Thespiritstood in front ofus,lookingat me and Chuyi. Themurderous aura in his eyes wasfading, reced by confusion.


    I then heard theold mans voice from the lodge. Dont stop!That man isnt an immortal. Hes fooling you!


    After the old man said that, Bianhes eyes turned crimson again.He gritted his teethandhowled,producing moreclones. This time, his clones were almost double the amount as the previous time.


    It took me a while tounderstand what was happening.Lu Dongbin was bornduringthe Tang Dynasty, whileBianhe was from the pre-Qin Dynasty.It was nowonder he didnt know Lu Dongbin.


    You leave me with no choice! Chuyi snorted. His body darted like an arrow released fromabow. His eight-facedHan sword movedswiftly, cutting apartmany of theclones. He was so fast that I couldnt see his attacks clearly.


    Every time I sawtheswordmove, Bianhe screeched. In the end, there was only one left.He was terrified andturned into a red mist, trying to fleeinto the wooden lodge.


    You want to run? Chuyi threw the Han sword across the air. The sword shed with blue lightand piercedthrough the red shadow. Bianhes bodyscattered like sand grains.


    At the same time, Zhou Tian screamed his heart out from the small lodge. Father, father


    Aswe had dealt withthespirit, Lu Dongbin didntwaste time and left. Chuyi slowly opened his eyesand regainedhisposure. Then, he walked to the wooden lodge. I followed him.


    Zhou Tian was holding an old man, weepingloudly.


    The old man was vomiting blood, and hisentire body was shaking. At first nce, I knew he wouldnt survive.


    Anyway,Zhou Tian hadcalledthis manfather! I now understood why hisexpression changed so muchat that time. His father hadnt died that yearandhad been hiding in the dark, looking fora chance to kill him!


    However,why was he tryingto kill his son? Icouldn''t understand.


    After the grannies incident, Zhou Tian hadpletely changed.


    Anyway, although he knew his father had tried to kill him,Zhou Tianstill got on his kneesand beggedus to save his father.


    I was touched by his filial piety. I wanted to save the old man, butIsawthat his soul had half vanished.Wecouldno longerdo anything.


    Chuyi, what happened?


    Chuyi answered with his cold voice,Didyou think Bianhe would be able to create so many clones after just one night ofrest? This old man used his soul to replenish Bianhe.When Bianhe perished, hewas also affected.


    After listening to him, I didnt know what to say. I pulled Zhou Tian up.


    Chuyi thought for a momentandsquatted by the old man. He asked,Before you go, can you tell me the reason?


    Cough The old man vomited blood. He used thst bits of strength to ask, Kid, have you heard the story of Mrs. ZhouShi, who kept watch by her husbands coffin?


    What? You are fromtheZhou family?


    Chuyi was surprisedas he lookedat the old man. Slowly, he read, Mrs. ZhouShistayed beside her husbands grave on the south nk of the mountain. Through a thousand years of wind and cloud, this ugly wife had no regrets. All of her life, she wanted to be with Bianhe in Nirvana.


    The old man listenedasChuyi recited thepoem. Then, he turned to Zhou Tianand mouthedsomething. However, his eyes closed before he could make a sound.


    Father! Zhou Tian hugged him as he sobbed.


    I couldnt stand this sort of atmosphere, so I pulled Chuyiand left. Who was Mrs. ZhouShi? Whats the meaning of thatpoem?


    Mrs. ZhouShiwas the first wife of Bianhe. Bianhe left her because she was uglyandremarried a beautiful woman. However, his life had ups and downs. When Bianhe offered his jade to the Kings, he wasnt rewarded but punished. His feet were chopped off. The beautiful woman then left him. Mrs. ZhouShi, the wife he had left, stayed to take care of him. After Bianhe died, Mrs. ZhouShiwatched overhis grave for the rest of her life. Her image has beasymbol of loyalty and dignity.


    He sighed and nced atZhou Tian. Generations of the Zhou family havefulfilledtheir ancestors wish by watching over Bianhes grave. If that old man could control Bianhesspirit, he must have been a grave-keeper before.As for the reasonwhy he attacked his son, I think only his mother knows


    When we told the grannie the situation, she criedand shookuncontrobly. Thatold man! How stupidcould you be! HowcanIkeep on living?!


    It turned out Zhou Tian wasnt the old mans biological son. While the old man was in the army, a thug in the vige had raped his wife. She got pregnant and gave birth to Zhou Tian. When the old man came home after he was discharged from the military, he knew Zhou Tian wasnt his son. But because of his love for his wife, he didnt want toleave her.


    He secretlyasked around. Eventually, helearnedthat the thug that had harmed his family was already dead. His me of anger couldntbe ventedout, so he pointed his spear at the poor, illegitimate son.


    Ashe didnt want to hurt his wife, he nned to use thespirit.Eventually,the n that he had incubated for half of his life wasruinedbecause of me. Perhaps, it was the Will of Heaven...


    However, from the look on the old mans facebefore he died, I thought he had finally epted this son. Anyway, his deathwasnt in vainas it had been exchanged for Zhou Tians filial heart!

 Chapter 507: The Trip to Japan

    Chapter 507: The Trip to Japan


    SinceI finally had free time, Iwanted to travel to rx mytensenerves.I nned to invite Chuyias well.


    How about Japan? suggested Yin Xinyue. It was the right season to visit Japan. She hadbeen wantingto visit Kyoto for a long time, but she hadnt had the time yet.It was a good opportunityto take heron herdream trip.


    Although I wasntthatfond of Japan, since Yin Xinyue wanted to go, I agreed.


    I called Li Mazi, andhe also agreed. He really wanted to take Ru Xue to Japan to enjoy sushi. Chuyi had no objections to this trip, either.As such,we finalizedourtrip to Kyoto.


    One weekter, we took a direct flight to the airport inOsaka. When weexitedthe airport, I saw a man holding a board with my name on it. He was the interpreter I had hired from atravelingwebsite. His name was Xiao Gao.


    Xiao Gao was a young bespectacled man in his twenties. He was a student in Japanwho worked as a trantor duringthe semester break to cover his tuition.


    Icalled him, waving at him. Xiao Gao came over and shook my handwith greatenthusiasm. Ive alreadybookedyour bus tickets to Kyoto. Well set out tomorrow at around9:00 AM. As for today,do you want to visit the duty-free shop to buy some gifts?


    Xiao Gao had already helped usget someJapanese yen. My first impression of him was good. This young man was cheerful anpetent. He should be agoodinterpreter.


    We can shopter. We should get a roomfirst! suggested Yin Xinyue.


    Xiao Gao called two cabs. Onourway to the city, he used his phone to book a good hotel for us.


    We didnt bring many belongings, just some spare clothes. We asked the receptionist to keep the luggage for us and went out for lunch.


    Xiao Gao asked,Whatdo you want for lunch, Japanese or Chinese? In Japan, Chinese food is popr, especially the spicy Sichuan specialties.AsJapanese people dont like spicy food that much, most of the dishes are sweet.


    Of course, we had the same idea.Sincewe hade here to travel, we should try as many of the local foods as possible!


    Xiao Gaobroughtus to a sushi restaurant where the diners sat around a highandround table. A conveyor beltcarriedfoodtoandfromthe kitchen. The kitchen was separated from the dining areaby a sswall. We could see the chefs working with rawingredientslike fish and crab. Aftermaking thesushi dish, they wouldce iton the conveyor. We could choose anything we wanted, andthey would count the number ofempty disheswhen we wanted to pay.


    Yin Xinyue foundsomething interesting.We could put theteswe finished into a box. After wehadfiveempty tes, we could do alucky-draw. Ru Xue and Yin Xinyuetried it out andreceived a few stickers. They asked us to try our luck as well.


    Li Mazi tried a few times,butall he got was a badge. Heimmediately put it on his chest.


    I got a small stuffed animal, while Chuyidrewa bunch of surprise eggs everytime, which shocked us quite a bit.


    The taste of sushi wasgood, and we really enjoyed the meal. Li Mazi gave a thumbs-up. The Japanese waiterswerenice. I felt likea god.


    Japanese people are really interesting. Mostrestaurantshave small games like this, so foreign tourists can y and enjoy the meals at the same time, Xiao Gao exined.


    Will you stay here after you graduate? I asked him.


    Im studying ancient architecture. I n to return to our country once Im finished. Xiao Gao smiled gently.


    Why did youe to Japan to study ancient architecture?


    Kyoto has many structures built in thestyle of theTang Dynasty, and they are very well-preserved. We cant find any Tang Dynasty structures in our country anymore, so its necessary toe here to study. The famous architect Liang Sicheng alsostudiedancient architecture in Japan, exined Xiao Gao.


    I admired hisambition. After lunch, Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue wanted to go shopping around Osaka. Of course, Li Mazi and Ifollowedthem.


    I felt a little sorry forChuyi, though.He didnt talkand carriedthe sword on his back the whole time. He didnt look like he was from the same worldasus.


    Japanese schoolgirls often stopped when they saw him. They shrieked, Kawaii!and took selfieswith him. The girls in this country were livelier than in China.


    We walked around the mall for a while. Afterward, Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue went to a shop to check outtheclothes, while the rest of usfound a cafand rested there.


    If you want to go tothatkind of ceat night, I canbring you there, said Xiao Gao.


    What kind of ceare you talking about?


    Japanesesocialclubs.They are simr to the nightclubs inMaind China. Most of the male tourists like to visit those ces. However, they are the sort of ces that require membership. You need to be introduced to get there. Xiao Gao took a sip of coffee.


    I gave him a wry smile. Dont you see that were here with our wives? Do you want us to kneel on the ground and wait for punishmentwhenwegoback?


    Nah, its all right. I can help you fabricateanexcuse. Xiao Gao smiled. I thought thatthis kidreally knew how to fawn over people.


    WhileI felt a littleconflicted,Li Mazi asked with avulgarsmile, Xiao Gao, what fun activitiesare therein those clubs?


    In the end, we agreed to visit one of the mildestclubsto widen our knowledge.


    As I was also curious,I told Chuyi, Its a rare chance to travel, you shoulewith us.


    Im a Daoist priest. How could I go there? Chuyi shot me a cold nce.


    Xiao Gao said,Brother, we can go there to drink and talk. You wont vite your rule.


    Chuyi hesitated then nodded. After dinner, the four of us excused ourselves, tellingthe girls that we were going to Osaka Comic City. Then, we took a taxi to go to asocial club. Thevish but debauched atmospherewas hardto adapt to.


    Soon, a middle-aged womanwearing a kimono came over and greetedus with a deep bow. Then, she turned to talk to Xiao Gao. It seemed they were close.


    I found a spot and ordered drinks and some snacks. Soon, four young women wearing sexy dresses came to us. Theygreeted us with a bowasXiao Gao introduced them to us. They then parted and settlednext to us.They pulledour armsandstarted to chat.


    I wasa littleoverwhelmedbythis situation.Chuyi, who wasnext to me, closed his eyes anddirectly enteredameditativestate.


    Li Maziquicklyfound the right tempo. He even used the travel guidebook to talktothe Japanese hostesses. I admired his boldness for having funevenwith thenguage barrier.


    After a few sses of champagne, Li Mazi became more shameless. He learned from the othercustomersand foldeda ten-thousand-yen bill, shoving itinto the girls cleavage. The girl poutedand poundedon his chest. I looked at hisvulgar,smiling faceand thought of taking a phototo show Ru Xue. I was sure it would earn hima harshpunishmentter.


    Xiao Gao was also having fun with those hot girls. I nowunderstoodwhy he brought us here. This ce was high-end and expensive, andXiao Gao was just a poor student. Thatwaswhy he tried his best to promote the ce to his customers. With that, he could also reap some benefits.


    I satnext toChuyi, feeling ratherawkward. We didnt even drink the juice we had ordered.As we didnt talk to them, thetwo women that were sitting with us moved to Li Mazi and Xiao Gao.


    I somewhatregretteinghereand wastingmoney. I turned andsaid toChuyi, Do you want to go outand getsome fresh air?


    Sure.Chuyistood up, before suddenlygazingin a direction.


    Sitting on the sofa opposite us was a chubby, bald, middle-aged uncle, who looked like a warlord inananti-Japanese soap opera. He was drinking with two hostesses. The women sat on both sides,ughingflirtatiously.


    A young man wearing white clothes was sitting on his right. He looked around eighteen or neen years old. He hadfair-skin andfeminine features. He was holding a big bucket of popcornand eatingto his hearts content.


    Whats wrong? I asked. Chuyis strange look had piqued my interest.


    Monster aura, Chuyi answered.That young man in white isnt human!

 Chapter 508: Monster Aura

    Chapter 508: Monster Aura


    If hes not human, what is he then? I asked Chuyi.


    Heshook his head. Im not sure, perhaps a monster. Moreover, hisstrength is nothing to scoff at.


    In Japan,yokai, or monsters,appearedinmany legends and folklores.However,I had never expected to meet one right in the middle of abustlingcity.


    We sat back on our sofaand watchedthe young manin white. Soon, a woman wearing a long, tight dress came and bowed to the bald uncle. Sheseemed to be in her thirties. Although she was older than the other girls, shehad the sexy curves of amaturewoman. Theway she moved wasenchanting, and her thighs were porcin white.


    The bald man immediately asked one of the hostesses togiveup her seat. Then, the youngergirlrespectfully poured wine for the older woman.


    Xiao Gao, do you know that woman? I asked.


    Xiao Gaowas a little drunkalready. He pushed his sses up his nose bridgeand said,Ah, shes the top hostess of thisclub.Ms. Mei Imai. The customers who want to talk to herhave to booka few monthsprior. Sheonleshere to weeVIP guests.


    If so, that bald man must be important...


    Xiao Gao gazed at Meilustfully. Then, he turned back to y dice with Li Mazi and the other hostesses.


    The bald uncle gave the two young girls some tips and sent them away. In the meantime,the young man in white picked up an empty ss and spat in it. Then, hediscreetlypassed it tothe bald uncle.His actions didnt escape my eyes.


    The bald uncle poured top-quality red wine into thess and offered it to Mei. Meirefuseda few times.In the end, she drank half of it.


    Thatboy is usinghis magic, Chuyi told mein a coldvoice.


    Can we take the girls here outtoa hotel room? I asked Xiao Gao.


    Xiao Gao thought that I wanted to take a girl to a hotel. He shook his head. No, no, this pub doesnt provide such services. You shouldnt act rashly. I dont want to be putontheir cklist


    Li Mazis speech was slurred.LittleBrother Zhang, I thought you were a righteous man. Yougot to knowthe girl for a few minutes and youalreadywant to have her in your room? Bold, youre bold!


    I ignored the two drunk menand saidto Chuyi,Could it be charming magic?Perhaps that bald uncle wants to sleep with the top hostess of this pub, and he has invited a monster to help him.


    Chuyi nodded. If so, we didnt need to put our nose in this.This wasnt our field.


    After Meidrankthe wine, nothing strange happened to her. She got up and bid farewell to the man.


    The young man in white noticed usandshot us a strange smile. Then, he gotup andwalkedtoward the toilet.


    Jiulin, look at his shadow, said Chuyi.


    Thesocialclub was dimlylit, so the young mans shadow on the ground was faint. However, I could see that his shadowhada long tail that moved like a snake. The young mans shadow also had a pair of triangr, pointy ears.


    Hes a fox spirit! I was surprised.


    Rightat thismoment, more customers arrived. They were a group of men wearing ck suits withgloomyfaces. They all wore sunsses. The leader was puffing a cigarandhada long scar above his right eyebrow.He worea thick golden chain on his neckandlooked rather fierce.


    The middle-aged womanhurried to wee them. She smiledbrightlyas she ledthem to the sofa.


    Xiao Gao, who are they?


    The Yamaguchi group. They are underworld criminals.


    Some shady activitieswerelegal here, and these guys were involvedinloansharking, nightclubs,andthe movie industry.Most of the time, theykept their distance fromordinary people. It was a wonder how Japanese society worked.


    Not long after the group of yakuzasat down, the hostesses came to serve them. Soon, Mei also arrived. She bowed and satnext to the boss.


    Those people looked fierce, but they were disciplined. They didnt touch the girls, whichwapletely different from what we had seen in the movies.


    Chuyi silently walked toward them. The henchmen sawhim and became vignt. He was suspicious as he carrieda sword on his back. Xiao Gao was so scared that heimmediatelysobered up. He rushed to stop Chuyi.I alsofollowedhim.


    Brother, brother, pleasee back here! Theyrecarrying knives! Xiao Gao screamed.


    Rightat thismoment, Meiclosedher eyes. When she opened her eyes again,they looked lifeless. She suddenly grabbed the fruit knife on the tableand aimed atthe bosss neck.


    The boss reactedquickly. Heraisedhis hand to parry, whichcausedthe knife to pierce through his wrist. He screamed in pain.


    His henchmen immediately drew their daggers, butMei kicked the table toward them. She was strangely strong right now.


    Mei raised her fruit knifeand attackedthe boss again. The boss covered his woundand ran away, screamingfor help. The entiresocialclub was now amess.The othercustomersstood in ceand watched the scene. The band ying on the stage halted, too.


    Mei tore her inconvenient short skirt, which exposed her creamy thighs. She then stepped on the sofaand chasedafter the boss. When she passed by us, Chuyi suddenly hacked his swordather.


    She jerked back to dodge his attack andnded with one hand ced on the floor.She then opened her mouthand baredher teeth. She behaved exactly like a wild beast.


    Then, she roaredand tried to stab Chuyia few times. Chuyicontinued to hackhis sword, whileMei used her knife to parry. The impact created dazzling sparks.


    As hefoughtagainstthe woman, Chuyi called me.Jiulin, think about how todispelthemagicaffectingher!


    I had taken out aKsitigarbhaTalisman, but the two were moving toofast. Icouldnt find a chance to join.


    Li Mazi came. He had alsosobered up. Whats going on?


    Goto the toilet. If you see a young man wearing white clothes,useall of your means to stop him from performing his magic.


    How do I stop him? Li Mazi looked puzzled.


    Do you have refined salt? Sprinkle the salt on him. If you dont, just pee on him!


    Er Okay! Li Mazi gave me a confirming nod then dashed to the toilet.


    Guys, move! Chuyi suddenly screamed.


    Mei jumped off a tableand attackedChuyi recklessly. It wasnt that Chuyi couldnt beat her. He didnt want to kill her, so he didnt attack heractively. He was in a passive situation.


    The gangsters were petrified. They surrounded the twoand hesitatedwhether to help Chuyi or not.


    After around three or four minutes, Chuyi grabbed Meis wrist. Iseizedthe chanceand quickly immobilizedher from behind. Then, I stucktheKsitigarbhaTalisman on her forehead.


    Meiconvulsed, andher bodyfellbackward. Sheraisedher head onest time before losing consciousness.


    Bakayaro!


    When the boss saw that the woman was finally subdued, hesnatched a dagger from one of his henchmenand stormedtoward the unconsciousgirl.As soon as he arrived, a sharp sword stopped him,almostcuttinghis throat. Chuyi held the swordand coldly said,This woman was controlled by magic. Shes not the one that wanted to kill you


    Xiao Gao interpreted. The boss blinkedand saidsomething. Xiao Gao interpreted again. Mr. Saitosaysthat you lookpetent.Ifyou help him find the murderer, he will pay you generously.


    How did you know his name is Saito? I asked.


    Xiao Gao gestured at themans chest. He was wearing a crest that had the wordSaitowritten inJapanese. Hes the leader of the Saito Group. This group specializesinloan sharking. Hes a famouspersonin this area.


    Ididnt want to risk my life fora member of the Japanese underworld. Moreover, thatbaldunclehad seized the time to runaway whiletheclubwas in chaos.


    Itold Xiao Gao, Tell him that were here to travel. We dont want toget involved any further.


    Xiao Gao interpreted it for me. Saito frownedand stutteredsomething. Although I didnt understand Japanese, I knewbakayarowasnt something nice as he kept repeating the phrase.


    Xiao Gao, what did he say?


    Xiao Gao wiped his cold sweat. Mr. Saito said that if you know the woman was controlled, you must know something else, too! You should behave and cooperate withhim ashehasdozens of ways to deal with you!

 Chapter 509: Running Away

    Chapter 509: Running Away


    As soon as I heard that, my blood boiled in anger. Is this guy crazy? Wejust saved his life, and instead of thanking us, he wants to cause trouble?


    Mr. Zhang,howshould I answer him? asked Xiao Gao.


    Tell him what I just said! I fumed.


    I dont think thats a good idea


    Saito rolled his eyesand waitedfor our answer. It seemed there wasnt a singlememberof the underworldthat wasnice.


    Xiao Gao spoke a few Japanese phrases. Saito calmed down, noddingrepeatedly. For every nod, hesaidYoshi.


    What did you tell him? I asked.


    I agreed with him on behalf of you guys. Xiao Gao forced a smile.


    What the heck?


    Itsjust tobuy time. We should get out of here first. Xiao Gaosignaled to me by blinking.For the time being, it was all we could do. I had to give the other party a nod, too.


    Chuyi suddenly askedin anindifferent voice,How long has Li Mazi been gone?


    Shoot! I cursedand rantoward the toilet. The others followed me. I pushed the door of each booth, but found nothing. When I pushed the door of thest booth open, I saw Li Mazi sitting inside. He held his head low and wasscratching his face.


    What are you doing? Why are you scratching your face? Iasked in puzzlement.


    Little brother, my face is so itchy! Li Mazis voice was sharp and strange to my ears. Eventually,he lifted his head. When I saw his face, I could help but gasp.


    Li Mazis mouth hadbelong and pointy. Hehadthick fluff on his entire faceand greenpupils. When he lifted his head, a pair oftriangr,orange-red pointy ears popped up.


    Shoot! Amonster!So manymonsters! When Li Mazi saw me, he screamedand chargedforward.


    I had to back off quickly.When he rushed out of his toilet booth, the people that filled the ce were stunned. The henchmentook outtheir knivesand were readyto attack.


    I screamed, Put your knives away!Hes my friend!


    Li Mazi pushed me toward a urinal. Then, he shrieked, pushedthrough the crowd,and ranaway.


    We hurriedly chased after him.The peoplein the club screamed and made way for him when they sawhisfox face. Some hostesses fainted at the scene. Everything was a mess.


    Amonster! A monster!


    Li Maziran around like crazy. He turned to the windowand jumped off the floor we were on, which was thefourth floor. My heart throbbed. Then, Li Mazi floated up again. It turned out there was a jumping cushion outside.


    It''s anillusion! said Chuyi.Hurry, bite your tongue!


    I did as he said. The pain made me shiver. Now, Li Mazis face was normal once again.


    Chuyi, Xiao Gao, and I ran to the window. I didnt know what we looked like in Li Mazis eyes, but he was shivering and looked veryscared. He didnt look back at us and continued to run away.


    The members of Saitos group also rushed out behind us. I told Xiao Gao,Tell them not tofollowus,I cant protect them all! And, tell them to look for my bag on my sofa in the pub. My wallet and passport are inside.


    Xiao Gaotranted forSaito. Then, he asked,Mr. Zhang, you put your passport in your bag?


    No, itsjust to fool him. I didnt bringabagwith me. My passports at the hotel, andIhavemy phone and money with me,I answered.


    I wanted to take this chance to run away.When I sawLi Maziruntoward the big street, Ibecamenervous. I hatedthat I couldnt just jump off this balcony and follow after him.


    Chuyi reached his handto stopus,pointingatawindow. Look over there.


    I lifted my head and saw a fox with pure white fur lying on the window sill. It squintedas it watchedus. It looked asif it was teasing us.


    Evil creature!You''re courting death! Chuyi screamed. Then,abig, round head protruded from his chest. It was Little Lininhis red dudou.


    Little Lins body was like a hot balloonthat floatedup into the sky. The whitefox jumped onto another window sill. The two swiftly shifted between the windows, chasing one after the other.


    Little Lin suddenly grabbed the white foxs tail, which made theanimalsqueakin pain.It hissed andturnedaround,biting Little Linsneck. The boygrabbedthe fox with both hands. They both fell off the window sill,ndingon a carand leavinga dent inthe roof.


    The pedestrians screamed.


    The fox then farted. A mass of gas that looked like mist expanded.The mist hurt peoples nostrils and eyes.All the peoplewho had identally inhaled the gasstarted to cough.


    I used my hand to furiously waft the stinky air away. However, the fox wasgone while we were distracted.Little Lin disappeared, too.


    Did thatchilddie? Xiao Gao was surprised.


    No,hes here with me. Chuyi unfolded his handand revealed apaper crane.


    Li Mazi stood on the pavementinbewilderment. Iwent over to himand pulled him. When he saw me, he acted as if hewas looking athis long-lostfather. He almost cried.


    Ohshoot, youre here! I thought Iwas ina dream orsomething. Monsters were everywhere, andI had to run for my life!BeforeI knewit, Iwason thestreet. I thought you guys ditched me here, said Li Mazi.


    Youwereaffected by the foxs illusion magic, I exined to him.


    What?Anyway, did youcatchthat fox? asked Li Mazi.


    I was worried that those guys would follow us, soI shook my headand urgedthe others. No, but we should return to the hotel first. Well talkter!


    Xiao Gaosaid anxiously,We cant hide in the hotel. Were Chinese,and thus tooconspicuous. With Saitoswork, he canfind useasily.


    Dammit. Lets call Ru Xue and Yin Xinyue. We should just run! Isaid.


    Li Mazi asked, Hey, who did you provoke?


    The Yamaguchi gang.


    Li Mazi paled in fright. LittleBrother Zhang, youre too bold! In justtheblink of an eye, youve messed with the criminals here. Ive watched some movies, and the Yamaguchigroupis ruthless. They cutpeoplesfingersandmakesushi withthem. Then, theyll makethe poor guys eattheir ownfingers! Why did you provoke them? Did you lose your mind?


    Isaid, Shut up, orIm going to tell Ru Xue you were rubbing that hostesss ass.


    Li Mazi shut his mouth immediately.


    I called thegirls and askedthem to pack up and wait for us at the hotel lobby. On the way, wecame up with a story.We wouldnt mentionwhat happenedin the pub.Instead, we would tell themthat we went to drink some sake. It wasnt really convincing, but it was the best that wehad fornow.


    Li Mazi would never spit a word. Chuyihadalways beenreserved. Xiao Gao was here to earn money from us, sono one would discloseour secret.


    Our bond was truly strong!


    Shortly after, we returned to the hotel. We gathered with Yin Xinyue and Ru Xue at the lobby,called two taxis, and left. On the way, I told Yin Xinyue the situation. Of course, Id changed the pub into an izakaya.


    Yin Xinyue was a smart woman. She caught the w in the story immediately.


    She smiled.Howcanan izakaya have hostesses? Be honest. Where did you go?


    Left with no choice,I had to tell her the truth. Fortunately, Li Mazi and Ru Xue took another cab.


    I didnt do anything. You can ask Chuyi if you dont believe me,I said.


    I believe you. Anyway, if youwant to gothere next time, you should bring me with you. Iwant to know more aboutJapanesecustoms. Yin Xinyue smiledand pinchedmy cheek.


    Actually Its not interesting at all. I shook my head.


    Xiao Gao, who was inthe co-driver seat, saidwith acheerfulface, Actually, therearekagemas as well.Its the Japanese term for male prostitutes. They serve women.


    I shot him a nce. He still had the guts to talk. If it werent for him, we wouldnt have gone to asocialclub in the first ce. And, we wouldntbe runningfrom the Yamaguchigroup. It was our first day in Japan,and wewere in the middle of achase scene.I felt like I was inanaction movie!


    We found a small hotel near the bus terminndspentthe night there.Early the nextmorning,we took the busand departedto Kyoto.

 Chapter 510: The Onmyoji, Abe no Seimei

    Chapter 510: The Onmyoji, Abe no Seimei


    We took the 9:00 AM bus to Kyoto. Along the way, Ru Xue and Li Mazichatted andughedin the back seats. They were so noisy that I couldnt concentrate.I reminded them a few times to mind their images and not shame Chinese people. Since it was an early bus, many people were sleeping.


    Ru Xue pouted. There isnt a no-talking sign on this bus. Whycan''t Italk?


    Dont you see that there are many office workerswho are sleeping? I asked.


    Well,they can sleep, andI can talk. Whats the matter


    Xiao Gao chimed in,Its differenthere thanin China. The public areas here are rtively quiet. Its good to keep your voice low.


    Ru Xuefinallycalmed down.


    Irealized thatmany things were different here. Japanese people respected social order a lot. They lined up when theygoton public transportation, and they sorted their garbage well. In our country, the government hadalways tried to encourage people to do the same, but the majority ofthe poptiondidnthave such good awareness. For example, public toilets in Japanwereperfectly clean, while theonesin Chinaweredirty and stinky.


    I grew up with the notion thatJapanesepeoplewere ruthless, butwhen I came here, I realized that theywerewell-educated.


    China had a longhistory and a lot of resources. After the Reform, the economy skyrocketed.We were able to getrichquickly, but more and more social drawbacks urred. People got money, but theirmindset didnt change. I thought these social practices were good things wecouldlearn from ourneighbors.


    Mythoughtswandered back towhathappenest night. Saito wastheleader of a loan shark group. Perhaps that bald uncle had owed hima huge sum of money,and he happened to know a monster.Perhaps hebegged that monster to help him finish Saito off.


    However, that fox spirit seemed topossess great power. Why did itsubmitto an ordinary man?


    The bus service had a snack bar, and I wanted to buy some asI felt hungry. However, Xiao Gao told me not to buy snacks now and save myappetiteto eat kaiseki meals.


    It was only forty kilometers from Osaka to Kyoto. We arrivedinone hour.Just likeyesterday, we gotoff the bus,checked intoa hotel, wentto the downtown area by noon,and visiteda famous kaiseki restaurant for lunch.


    The Japanese kaiseki mealswereexquisitely prepared. However, itwasstrange that they wanted to focus on thecolor, aroma, and meaningof the dishes. I couldnt understand what they meant by meaning.


    Anyway, although the kaiseki dishes didnt taste bad, I thought it wasnt as delicious as aspicyChinese hot pot.


    After lunch, we went to the pedestrian zone. Xiao Gao was our guide. Kyoto is an ancient city with a long history. There are many temples, shrines, and cultural sites here. The structure of this cityis based onChangan City in China, and itwasthe capital of Japan for quite a long time through a few dynasties.Itscurrent position issimr toNanjing in China.


    The atmosphere of Kyoto waspletely different from Osaka. Ancient structures were well-preserved, andthe peopleliving here seemed to have a more leisure life. The streets were narrow and there werent many reinforced concrete buildings. As a whole, this city didntlook modernat all.


    Yin Xinyue said, This ce is nice. I want to live herewhen Im old.


    Xiao Gao said, Its veryplicated to immigrate to Japan. Not to mention the long procedure, butwhen youe to Japan, you willhave to change your name


    Ru Xueughed. Oh, you need to have a Japanese name. Sister Yin, you can be called Yamamoto Yuexin. Brother, you can be Tanaka Jiulin.


    Thatdoesnt sound nice at all! I dont want to move to Japan. I shook my head.


    Ru Xue soon found something interesting. It was a theatre. A handsome man wearing ancient clothes was delivering fliers. He looked like a cosyer. Ru Xuewentto takeaphoto with the man, and she came back with a flyer.


    What does it read? Ru Xue showed the flyer to Xiao Gao.


    It seems to be theAbe no Seimeishow.


    Abe no Seimeiwas the most famous Onmyoji in Japan, right? I asked.


    Right,Abe no Seimeiwas the greatest Onmyoji of all time. He subdued countless ghosts during his life. There are so many legends about him. Itis saidthatAbe no Seimeis mother was a nine-tailed fox. Xiao Gao nodded.


    Why do Japanese people like fox spiritsso much? asked Ru Xue.


    In Japan, fox spirits are categorized as domestic foxes, wild foxes, fantasy foxes, heavenly foxes,and more. Infolklore, fantasy foxes are the farmer guardians. They protect the fields. They are simr to the God ofEarthin China. People worship them a lot. The heavenly foxes aregodlikeexistences. In the legend, Tamamo no Maeis the onlyheavenly fox, exined Xiao Gao.


    Tamamo no Mae was Daji in China, right? I asked.


    That seems to be the case. After the great war of the Investiture of the Gods, Xiqis army overthrewthe brutal Shang Dynasty.While fleeingfrom JiangZiyas pursuit, Daji came to Japanand turnedinto the peerless beauty, Tamamo no Mae. She sessfully charmed the emperor of Japan, bing hisconcubine.Being seducedby Tamamo no Mae, the emperor neglected his courtand sankinto drinking, ying, and watchingbeautiful dancers. Eventually, the courtiers started tohavedoubts, so they decided to invite the OnmyojiAbe no Seimeito subdue the monster.


    He continued,Tamamo no Mae was killed after a furious fight withAbe no Seimei. Before she died, she condensed her resentful energy into amurderousstone ball. This ball could absorb the energy from the wandering soulswithin aradius of several hundred miles. Tamamo no Mae could use this energy to rebuild her body.Abe no Seimeiknew he couldnt kill the fox spirit, so he sealed her in a ce no one knows


    Xiao Gaos story surprised us.


    Ru Xue asked, Those legends are just fabricated, right?


    Xiao Gao smiled.Its just a legend, so noone has ever verified it.


    I turned and didnt see Chuyi. He was standing in front of the small theatre, gazing at the poster ofAbe no Seimei.


    He turned to me. I want to watch the show.


    This is assical Japanese drama, probably a kabukidrama. Let alone Chinese people who dont know Japanese, Im a trantorandcantunderstand it thatwell. Its simrtoan American going to watch Chinese Huangmei opera.Theywontunderstand whats going on


    I understood Chuyis mood. Although we had different cultures,Abe no Seimeiwas someone who worked in the same field. Moreover,he was a godlike character!


    It was rare to see him interested in something, soIdecided to go with himwhile Xiao Gaoand theothers went shopping. We would reunite after the show. Everybody agreedtomy suggestion.


    We bought two tickets and chose two seats near the stage. After a while, the light dimmed. Slowly, the curtains pulled aside, and anactorwearing a kimonoand maskwalked onthe stage. The audience pped then quieted down to enjoy the show.


    The entire drama was around two hours long. The actors sang very well, and the performance was nice withjust the rightstage effects.As forthe story ofthedrama


    Ididnt understand anything!


    After thirty minutes, I couldntbear itanymore. My eyelids were so heavyasthe melodic foreignnguageyedin my ears. Chuyi sat in the darkand looked veryfocused. I didnt want to disturb him, so I had to pull myself togetherand tryto watch the show.


    After a while, Ireally reached my limit. I nudged Chuyand asked,Do you want to go out for some fresh air?


    Suddenly, Chuyi straightened his back. I was surprisedand asked,Sincewhen did you fasleep?


    I didnt. Iwaswatching the drama.


    He was lying!Weburst outughing. Eventually,he waved his hand. All right, we should go!

 Chapter 511: The Ceramic Fox

    Chapter 511: The Ceramic Fox


    When we left the theatre, the sky was dark. There was a group of people wearing strange costumes outside. They weredancing and singingas afew floats carrying drums moved behind them.Some burly andshirtlessmen were hitting the drums. Another float had a woman wearing a red costume with fox ears and a big tail. Shewas shakingher appealing body anddancinglike a water snake.


    All of the people on the street were stirred up. They cheered and roared as theysurroundedthe floats.


    I guessed it was afestival. Since wehad to wait forLi Mazisgroup, Chuyi and I went to buy oden from a food stall. We ate and watchedthe street performance.


    The chef of the food stall talked to us. I told him I didnt speak Japanese. He realized itandtook out a piece of paper. Hewrote something then gave me the note.


    Although it was in Japanese, there were a few traditional Chinesecharacters. I could somewhat understand. He said that this was the annual Inari OkamiFestival, also known as theGod of Rice Festival. We were lucky that we came here in thisperiod.


    I wrote a line that asked,Is it forthe sake of having agood harvest?


    The chef didntunderstand. Chuyi took the pen and re-wrote it with traditional Chinese letters. The chef noddedand wrote, Right, do Chinese people worship Inari Okami too?


    I also used traditional Chinesecharactersto answer him. I oftenreadthe old books my grandpa had left me. Thatwaswhy I knew traditional Chinesecharacters. I told himthatfox immortals were famous in China and that we used to worship many statues. However, after theReform, peoplestoppedbelievinginthis stuff, except for the viges in the Northeast. At the same time, I showed my interest and respectforJapanese traditional culture.


    The chef said, Arigato!Then he wrote, I really like Chinese cuisine. There are so many techniquesand different dishes.Its different from the simple techniques we have in Japan.


    He even expressed his fondnessforChinese soapoperaslike My Fair Princess and Nirvana in Fire. These werepoprdramas in Japan for a while. He thought that the scenesinChinese dramas were all spectacrly filmed,unlike theirnational dramas.


    Then, he reyed a scenefromMy Fair Princess. He raised his handand usedhis stiff Chinese to say, Ziwei, dont go! We burst outughingand thoughtthat this chef wasreallyinteresting.


    I wrote on the paper that I loved reading manga and watching anime. Naruto and Cooking Master Boy were my favorites. They were good memoriesfrommy childhood.I also wrote thatthe gaming industry in Japanwassuperb. When I was young,I oftenyedSuper Mario, Contra, King of Fighters,and more.Of course, I didnt tell himabout the manyJAVmovieson mputer...


    We were chatting to our hearts contentsand exchanged our interests in eachotherscultureeven though there was anguage barrier. Later on, Xiao Gao told me that Japanese people used bothKanjiand their own Katakana. Chinese people couldreadKanji, so therewould be no hindrancetoreading. For example, Dr. Sun Yat-sen used tomunicate with Japanese fishermen by writingaswe had just done with the Japanese chef. EvenLiang Qichao,whotranted many Japanese books, didnt learn or know Japanese.


    The chef gifted us two bottles of wine. I didnt bring anything to repay this favor, and it wasnt appropriate to give him money. As such, I gave him aKsitigarbhaTalismanand wrotehim a note: This is a spirit talisman that can protect you from incidents and ghosts.


    The chef held the talisman in his hands as if it was a little treasure.He carefullyadheredittohis food cart.


    Heh, this chef is nice,I told Chuyi.


    Yeah. He nodded.


    We drank wine and ateoden. Then, we continuedto watch the festival as it hade toagreat part. Many Japanese people were dressed like ancient deities, shuttlingthrough the crowd. I saw Amaterasu, theGoddess of the Sun and Universe, as well as Princess KaguyaandSusanoo.I didnt know the rest. On a ck float,anactor and actressfought asAbe no Seimei and Tamamo no Mae. Their moves were really beautiful and impressive.


    Chuyi suddenly pointed in a direction and asked me to look. I saw a float slowly moving toward us. A white fox was lying on a lotus pod on that float. A few witches were dancing gently around that fox with their magical instruments. That white fox looked the sameasthe fox spirit we had encountered in Osaka!


    When he saw us, he squinted as if he was giving us a mocking smile. Iquicklyturned and asked the chef,Whats that foxsorigin?


    The chef answered that the fox was from a shrine that was very famous here.Hesaid that many peoplecameto worship it.


    Has this fox ever left Kyoto?


    The chef was bewildered for a while. Heughed, pointed at the float, and askedme to look carefully. I then recognized it was just an exquisitely made ceramic fox.


    The chefquickly wroteonthe paper. Its not a real fox. Its made of ceramic. They found that fox in the ruins of a pce. They brought it into a shrine and started to worship it. It has be the spiritual mascot of Kyoto since then. We can see it outside the shrine only once a year, and that day happens to betoday!


    Its an otherworldly item. Moreover, its really powerful, said Chuyi.Its possible the white fox spirit we metyesterday came from here


    I noddedandcouldnt believe that we were lucky enough to see an otherworldly item in Japan. An experts knowledge determines what he sees. Its like how ageologist will notice the sondhow abotanist will pay attention to the nts wherever they go.


    With such a concept, after two years in this business, I could be considereda qualified otherworldly merchant.


    After the parade passed us, Ifelt a little reluctant.After a while, Li Mazisgroup returned.They hadshopped aroundandcame backwith bags of all sizes. They looked as though they hada goodtime.


    I told them about the awesome event they missed. Ru Xue wasnt convinced. What goodis there aboutfloats? Ive seen themon TV many times!


    Oh yeah? Were going to eat seafood tonight. You can just watch useat. Its the same, right? I shrugged.


    Ru Xue fumedand redat me. She askedLi Mazi for help. Li Mazi was reluctant. LittleBrother Zhang, could you pleasego along withmy wife sothatshewillfeel better? You know how narrow-minded she is.


    Whos narrow-minded?! Ru Xue took out a wooden hammerand started to chase and hitLi Mazi. Li Mazi ranand screamedfor mercy. Theyranlike that for a while.


    I sighed.Sometimes, I wonder if theyre lovers and foes.


    We said goodbye to the chef then wenttosupper. After that, we returnedto the hotel to rest.


    Everybody was excited, so we didnt want to go to bed right away.We decided to visit the hotels bar for a few drinks.


    Li Mazi stared at thebeautiful women walking around. Ru Xue pulled his earand gavehim a lesson. Japanese womenworespecial makeup which made them lookreally good.It wasno wonderthatJapanese makeup techniques were poprin China.


    I asked Yin Xinyue for permission. Boss, can I watch?


    You can! Yin Xinyue generously waved her hand. I also think that theylook pretty with makeup. I want to learn from them.


    After a while, Ru Xue said that she was tiredand askedLi Mazi tohead backto their room to rest. The married couple wanted to spend timebythemselves, so wedidn''tstopthem. I ordered another round of cocktails and a ss of orange juice.


    I had justtakena sipwhenmy phone rang. It was Li Mazis call. I thoughtthat the manwas crazy. We were staying in the same hotel, and he still made a phone call to me. He must have thought international calls were cheapor something.


    Since thephone kept ringing, I had to ept the call. Whats wrong, man?


    LittleBrother Zhang,this is bad. Were trapped! Li Mazi sounded anxious.


    You are stuck in the elevator? Dont worry.I''ll askthe hotel staff to help you right now! I was also startled.


    No, no. The stairs, we are trapped at the stairs!

 Chapter 512: Powerful Illusion

    Chapter 512: Powerful Illusion


    Li Mazi told me that they had decided to take the stairs, butter found thatthey could neverreach the end. He was flustered, so he pulledRu Xue to return to us. Although they saw the corridor right in front of them, the top of the stairs seemed to be even higher thantheHimyas. They triedbut couldntleave the ce.


    Fortunately, the phone callstill wentthrough. Ru Xuewasso scared that shealmost cried.


    All right, calm down. Iming!


    I hung up the call andsaid toChuyi, Theyprobablyencountereda road-blocking ghost. We should hurry


    Before I could finish talking, Chuyi, who wassitting next to me, suddenlymoved backwards. I turned around to look. Yin Xinyue and Xiao Gaoalso movedfar from me.The same thing happenedto the tables, chairs, the bar counter, and the other customers. The ce was empty. It lookedlike the space around mehad beenstretchedendlessly in justtheblink of an eye.


    Whilemoving away,Chuyi screamed, Its illusion magic!Bite your ton


    However, his voice fadeduntil I could no longer hear it.At the same time, his body began to shrink until he was as big as a sesame seed. He disappeared shortlyafter that.


    Itried to bitethe tip of my tongue. However, my tongue was like stone. I couldnt bite it. I tried to talkbut couldnt make a sound, either.


    Not good. It must be the drinkI justhad!


    If itwasjust anillusion, everything was fake. I turned and rushed in thedirection Chuyiwent. However, the floor tiles underneath me moved backward. I had run for a long timebut still didnt see anyone.


    I was flusteredandtook out aKsitigarbhaTalisman, palming iton my forehead. Unfortunately,thisdidnt work, either.


    I gave up runningand saton the ground, waiting to berescued. Time movedveryslowly, andI wasnt sure ifI had been here for a few hoursor afew minutes. Anyway,besidesfeeling bored, I wasnt tired.


    I had drunk a few sses of wine, so it would make senseif Ifelttipsy. However,I didnt.


    I suddenlyrealized something. This illusion stretched both space and time endlessly,affectingpeoplesbrains. Idheard thatastrong magiciancouldtrap people for a few seconds, butthosefew seconds would feellike ernity. Peoplesbrainscouldnt endure this kind ofstress. In the end, the brain would be overloaded, which would make thevictimenterastate of suspended animation.


    I didnt know how long I had waited; perhaps six or seven hourshad passed. Anyway,I started to panic when I thoughtthat only a few seconds might have passed in the real world. I might have to waitten yearsto seeYin Xinyue, Chuyi, or Li Mazi again. I felt so downthat I started to cry.


    At thismoment, a blue light shed inthe distance. A sword was flying toward me. I was scaredand preparedto run. However,the sword was like a missile that had locked me as its target. I couldnt dodge it.


    Fortunately, I recognized it was Chuyis eight-facedHan sword. I stoppedand pulledmyself together.


    The sword zoomed through the long spaceandpreciselystabbedmy be. After that short pain, the endless space created bytheillusion shrank. The bars interiorreturnedto my side.


    I saw Chuyi holding the sword. It was touchingmy be. The effect of theillusion hadnt ended yetas timewasstillpassingslowly. In my eyes,the whole scenewas like a slow-motion video. Moreover, all I heard wasabuzzing sound. Nothing was distinctive enough tomake sense.


    When the tip of the sword left my face, timereturnednormal.Afterward, Chuyi swiftly used his sword tostabYin Xinyues be, while his other hand smashed a ss on the counter.He pickedup a shardandscratched Xiao Gaos be. Xiao Gao shrieked then felltothe ground.


    Yin Xinyues eyesreturned to normal. She criedand huggedme. Brother Zhang, I thought I would never see you again! Itwasso scary! So scary!


    Xiao Gao woke upand rolledon the ground. He criedandcalledfor his mother,scaringthe other customers in the bar.


    Chuyi, how longwere wetrapped in the illusion?


    Not even one second.


    What? I thought I was there for at least ten hours! cried Yin Xinyue.


    I turned to the bar counter. The bartender that had just served us was gone. I guessed hemight bethe fox spirit.


    He must have put something in our drinks. Except for Chuyi, who had drunk orange juice, the three of uswere affected bythe magic!


    The moment we were trappedin theillusion, Chuyi used his fastest speed todeal withthe magaston us. If he had been a few seconds slower, we would have been trapped there for a few days or even a few years. It was terrifying!


    However, I knewthat there was no time to waste. We left the bar quickly.


    Wethen saw Li Mazi and Ru Xue hugging each other. They werecrying on the stairs.


    Chuyi wipedthesword tip with his sleeves and rushed to them. Hisstrengthand skills were that of a real master. The touch of his swordwaslike adragonflysurfing on thewater. The tip touched their besand left immediately. Theduo was savedfrom the illusion.


    Li Mazi criedand medus.What took you so long?! Do you know how long weweretrapped here? I almostbecame crazy!


    I caughttheglimpse of a figure wearing white clothesinthe corner of the corridor. The figure shed for a moment then disappeared.I didnt have time to listen to Li Mazi. I took out the Sirius Whipand chasedafter thefigure.


    As soon as Imoved, Chuyi quickly followed me. When we reached the corner, the white-clothed figure dashed fasterand enteredthe elevatoron theother end of the corridor. Then,the figureturned to see us.


    It was a fox spirit in the shape of a teenager.The figurehad a pair of triangrears and a red, fluffy tailthat waggedbehindit.


    This teenager looked prettysimr to the fox spirit wesawyesterday. But this onewasa little girl!


    Therearetwo fox spirits?


    The white-clothedteenagegirl gave us a mocking smile.Rightbefore the elevator closed, Chuyi took out a Ghost Sealing Pouch. He held one end of the rope and threw the pouch away.


    The Ghost Sealing Pouch released a ck mist in midair,which enteredthe elevator. The mist then turned into a bloodyandburly figure with white eyes.


    The little girlfeltthreatened. Her mouthbecamelong and pointy, and she showed her sharp fangs.Then, sheroared and started to fightwiththat muscr figure.


    When we reached the elevator, it had alreadystarted to move down. Theelevator next to uswason thefirst floor.As we didnt have time to waste,wetookthe stairs.


    This hotel had twenty floors. As we rushed downstairs, Iwas almost out ofbreath. When we reached the lobbyon thefirst floor, my clothes were damp with sweat. I had to nt my hand on the wall to support my bodyas I gaspedfor breath.


    Its not toote! Chuyi sprinted past me. I was surprised that his facedidnt change color. Hewasnt sweating, either.This man looked slender anddelicate, but his physique was unexpectedly tough.


    I thought to myself,Ihave towork out more.


    The elevatorwas still on thethird floor. We hadsurpasseditby running. It turned out that thosechasingscenesin movieswerentthatexaggerated.


    We carefully watched the elevator. When the doors opened, the walls inside were dyedredwith ghost blood.I guessed themuscr figure had been torn into pieces. No matter what, he was just a soul. His power wasnt as strong as a monster with a profound cultivation base.


    However,the little girl was gone. I then noticed that the vent on the elevator ceilinghad beenpushed aside.


    Did she escape from there?


    AsI was thinking, a piece of paper stained with bloodblewout of the elevator. It flew pastus.


    It was a closed elevator, so where did the winde from? It was unnatural.I raised my foot and stamped on it.


    Ouch!


    The sheet of paper transformed into a little girl. I had stepped on her fluffy, big tail.

 Chapter 513: Jade Tail

    Chapter 513: Jade Tail


    I didnt expect that wewould capture that little fox so easily. Her tail seemed to be her weakness. I reached and pinched her tail. The onlookers looked at us strangely, butI didnt caremuch about that.


    I asked her, Who are you? Why did you ambush us?


    The little girl looked at us pitifully. She foldedher earsand gave usan aggrieved look. I thought she didnt understand Chinese, so I took out my phone to call Xiao Gao toe down here to trante.


    However, the little girlsuddenlysaid, Mr. Huang asked me toe here to protect you guys.


    I was a little surprised. This little girl could speak Mandarin.Still, she was a fox spirit that could live for a long time. It wasnt strange that she could speak manynguages.


    Who is Mr. Huang? I have never heardofhim.


    What? You dont know him? If you dont believe me, ask your pockmark-faced friend.


    You mean Li Mazi? I spotted a w in her words. If you came to protectus, why did you cast your magic illusion on us?


    I didnt hurt you!The little girl shook her head.


    Is that so? We almostbecame crazyin your magic illusion. Be honest. Who is Mr. Huang? My voice grew cold.


    He He asked me to bring you guys to a ce. Youll know when you get there.


    I didntunderstand and turnedto Chuyi.Hefrowned and said, Shes fooling you.


    I turned and caughtasmirk on the girls face. Immediately, a stinky gas emitted from her lower body. It was like tear gas, andI couldnt even open my eyes. I covered my mouthand coughedhard.


    Herfluffytail slithered like a snake, and she gotaway from mygrasp. I was mad at myselffor being easily fooled bya little monster.


    Chuyi chased after the gind tried to stab hertwice, but the little girlmovedagilely. She jumped from the counter. Afterward, both of her legs hooked onto the chandelier, herbody danglingupside down. She swungand madea face.


    You fool! You fool!Haha!


    I angrily drew the Sirius Whipandshedat her. The little girl caught the whip. Then, she attemptedto pull me toward her.


    This little fox spiritwas too naive.The Sirius Whip was covered in spells that could exorcise ghosts and monsters. As soon as she caught it, she shrieked in pain. The whip left a burning streakinher palm.


    I withdrew the Sirius Whip thenshed again. The little girl jumped off the chandelierand dashedto the door, fleeing.


    I wanted to chase after her, but Chuyi stopped me. We dont know that fox spirits origin.We should becarefs we dont want to be trapped again. She didnt do anythingbesidesusing thatillusion, sowe shouldntattack recklessly. Itll be safer if we hold back for now.


    I nodded.I felt reallytired, soI decided toheadback to my room to rest.Suddenly, I got a call from Yin Xinyue. Brother Zhang, did youcatchthat little fox?


    No, I didnt. I felt strange, though. Yin Xinyue hadnt seen the girl,so how didshe know it was a little female fox?Something waswrong!


    Yin Xinyue soundedanxious. Go after her. She stole our passports!


    Did she steal anything else? I asked.


    No, but the four passportsaregone. She didnt steal money. Hurry,well be in bigtrouble if weloseourpassports!


    I sneered. Little fox, you want to fool me again? Youre not Yin Xinyue!


    After keepingsilent for around ten seconds,Yin Xinyuesaid,Brother Zhang, did you hit your head somewhere?


    Youdamnfox, did you steal my wifes phone?Did you fakeher voice to fool me again?Did you reallythink that I would buy it?Shehung up after I scolded her. I felt proud of my quick wits.


    Soon, Yin Xinyue came out of the other elevator booth. She lookedveryangry. In more than twenty years, itsthe first timesomehoughtthat Iwasnta human. And,youwere the one who did that to me! I feel hurt. Anyway, lookhere.


    She shoved her phone to my face. It was a photo she had just taken.Someone had usedabrush to write a line on the wall. It read, Little fox immortal Jade Tail visited here!


    She swiped to the second photo, which was our luggage. Except for our passports, it seemed nothing else was missing.


    Now, do you buy it? Yin Xinyue fumed.


    I was so stunned that I couldnt make a sound.I wished that the ground underneath would open up and swallow me whole.I tried to show off but ended up failing hard.


    IlookedatChuyi through the corner of my eye. The man looked as though he was smiling. Hey, are youughing at me?


    No, Im not. He pulled his cold face back againand wipedall the evidence.


    Why are you still standing there? Without passports, we cantgohome. I dont want to be an illegalimmigranthere! Yin Xinyue sounded mad.


    Anyway, itwasntas serious as she said. We could always go to the Embassy togetanother passport. However, wewould haveto showevidenceand the procedure was extremelyplicated.It was possible we hadto stay in Japan for a month.


    Chuyi said, Lets go before she goes too far.


    I answered helplessly,Yeah.


    After weleftthe hotel, Chuyi began to sniff along the street. I asked,Howcanyou smell the monster aura? I can see ghosts, but I cant sense monsters.


    He gave me a faint answer.You havent fully awakened.


    I didnt know how long we had walkedwhenwe saw the little girl sitting on a street light. She wasbing her tail.Itseemed she was waiting for us.


    I tried to call her.Miss Jade Tail, we dont haveagrudge. Please give back our passports.


    No.


    What do you want,after all?Willyou begentleenough to tell me? I said begrudgingly.


    I want you to stay hereandy with me! Then, she took out a passport from her pocketand toreit. I almost cried.


    Fortunately, sheonly torethe protectivecover of the passport. Then, she fanned the four passports in her hand as if they were poker cards, sniggering.Come catch me. If you can catch me, Ill give them back to you.


    She gently bounced fromonmp post to anotherwhilegiggling. We had to run after her on the street. I was irritated.


    Wewere always beingchased byzombiesand evil ghosts, and when we finally went on a nice trip to Japan to rest,thislittle fox was teasing us. I pledged to myself that I would make her into a nice fur!


    We ranthe entire way andgradually left the city. Kyotowasnt that big in the end.


    The road led us to a mountain nk with denseandbig trees. I had to stop and gasp for my breath. Jade Tail jumped onto a red, archway-like thing that looked like theChinese character . I remembered itwascalledtorii, whichwas usually the entrance toJapanese Shinto shrines.


    Jade Tail jumped above a series of torii and disappeared into the woods.


    Inadvertently, we were brought toashrine.A high and ancient structure stood in the night.Perhaps because it was leaning against the great mountain, it looked especiallyimposing.


    If Iwas correct,this should beafamous shrine in Kyoto. It was the Inari Shrine!


    Aswe were about to enter, a bamboo stick was suddenly ced at my throat. A young girl around twenty years old with aponytailstood before me. She was of medium height, and herattire looked like a Chinese Han suit. She woreitwith a loose, white coat apanied by a crimson skirt.Itwasthe typical attire ofaJapaneseshrine maiden.


    The bamboo stick was actually a broomstick. The girl looked at us with bright eyes. She looked hostile!

 Chapter 514: The Haunted Shrine

    Chapter 514: The Haunted Shrine


    Theshrine maiden, or miko,saidsomething in Japanese. Of course, we didnt understand. She spoke again. This time, shespoke in rough Chinese. What are you doing here? Why did youtrespass here?


    Oh, you can speak Chinese? I was amazed.


    Iveread ancient Chinese books, soIvelearnedthegrammara bit.


    Although thismiko could speak Chinese, her grammarwas indeedweird.Sheraisedher broomstick againandboldly said,Answer me!


    We are after a little fox spirit. She stole our passports. If you dont believe me, you can ask him. I pointed at Chuyi.


    Themiko skeptically assessed us. Youre after a little fox? Yourelying!


    Then whywould weinvadethis ce at midnight like this? Is there something good to steal in this shrine?


    She rolled her eyes at me. We dont have any foxes here!


    I wanted tough when I heard her talk, butI refrainedas it wasntpolite.Chinese wasreally hard to study. Itwas good enoughthat we couldmunicate.


    This is Inari Shrine, where fox immortals are worshipped, right?


    Themiko sneered.Then, is there always a Bodhisattva in Bodhisattva temples in China?


    Chuyi exined, Im a Daoist priest from Mitu Temple in Hong Kong. That little fox tried to guide us here. She should haveapurpose. Can you take us for a tour inside? We willnotcause any trouble.


    The miko frownedand asked,How about you?


    Im amerchantof otherworldly items. Idont thinkyouveheardofthis profession.


    Themiko didnt understand what otherworldlyitemswere, but she knew the word merchant. Whyisa merchanttravelingwith a Daoist priest?


    In short, we are co-workers. Its simr to the Onmyoji in Japan.


    She didnt quite understand,but she put her broomstick aside. All right, I can take you in. But if we dont find your passports, Ill call the police to arrest you.


    Okay! I nodded.


    Themiko guidedus. We walkedalong the mountain path, and although she was wearing a hakamawith a long, loose sleeved kimono robe, Inoticed thatshe had agood physique. Shehad a good body andcurves. Of course, I wasnt a pervert that had bad thoughts toward a shrine maiden.


    The mountain path was long and steep. There weremany red toriiandnterns that hung on them. However, the light from thenternswasn''tbright enough.We were lucky thatthere wasa full moon tonight.


    The woods alongside the mountain path were pitch-ck.We asionallyheard squeaking sounds from the night birds. There were many stone foxes of various sizes, with thebiggest around half the size of an adult. They had ahumanoid shape and woreancient clothes. They brought theirpalms togetherand squinted theireyes as if they were smiling. It would be eerie to walk here alone at night.


    After walking for a while, the space in front of us expanded and became bright. A redwooden gatethat readInari Shrinestood on two cement supports, and two foxes sat on top of it. They helda bunch of rice ears intheirmouths.


    Themikoledus through the great gate. The yard inside was spacious with pretty and clean tiles.There werebigand lushtreesthat were neatly alignedwith the rocksand springs, as well assome red Tang Dynasty styled structures. They looked new, but I knew theywerebuilt quite a long time ago.


    I suddenlyfelt like I had traveled backto the Tang Dynasty. It was a nice ce to shootanancient drama. I heard that Shu Qi shot some of herassassin movie scenes in Kyoto.


    I noticed thegeomancyof this ce. Everything was arranged meticulously.Anexpertmust havehelped make this ce.After all, this ce wasatop tiershrine in Japan.


    Themiko haltedand turnedto face us. Where are your passports? I will take you there to get them. You cant roam around this ce.


    I thought themiko wanted to trouble us. If she didnt let us search, howwouldwe know where our passports were?


    Chuyi said, Ican sensethe monster aura. It should be there. He raised his fingersand pointed inthedirection of the main hall.


    Themiko looked skeptical. Are you sure?


    Chuyi nodded.


    All right, Illtakeyou there, said themiko.


    We needed to take offourshoesbefore enteringthe main hall. There was a statue with a red coat enshrined in the main hall. Although the statue had a human form, its face had the features of a fox. Miss, is that Tamamo no Mae?


    No, many Chinese tourists have asked me that question. Ididn''tknow how to cry.


    Ithinkyoumeant Ididntknow whether tugh orcry, I corrected her.


    Indeed, our passportswereon the altar. I picked them up and checked them. There were five passports, and somethingwascedunderneath them. It wasaKsitigarbhaTalisman!


    ThisKsitigarbhaTalisman wasstuck onto apiece of wood. Themiko gasped, looking at the talisman in my hand with wide eyes.Chuyi and I exchanged looks.


    This talisman was the one I had given to the oden chef. The fox spirit couldnthave touchedit since she was a monster. Thatwaswhy she had pried up the wooden piece to get the talisman. The little fox had tried her best to usher us here. Irealizedthere was moreto thisstory.


    Themiko asked, Does this talisman belong to you too?


    Themiko had been vignt the entiretimeshe had apanied usand didnt look that friendly.Ionly wantedto return to the hotel to rest. However, I gave her a nod. Yeah, I drew this talisman.


    You can draw this kind oftalisman? She looked stunned.


    Whats wrong? I asked.


    She brought her palms togetherand asked in an honest voice, Could you please give me a few?


    She then exined shyly,These days,strange things have been happeningin the shrine. We often hear strange noises at night, just as if someonewasthrowing bricks at the walls. Some people here have even seen a headless samurai walking on the mountain trail.Severalmikos wereterrified. Last month, we saw a burning headflyaround the yard, too.


    Mikoswerejust shrine maidens and theycouldntsubdue ghosts or monsters. Somemiko did have sacred powers. However, it came with their bloodline. This kind of inheritance had been long lost in the history of Onmyojis.


    Themiko said embarrassedly, My grandmother was a famousmiko in Kyoto in her time. Butinmy generation, we dont have a bit of magic power...


    Excuse me, how should I address you? I asked.


    My name is Chiba Rin.


    Chuyi and I also told her our names.


    Miss Chiba, how do you know about this talisman?


    Because we also have thisKsitigarbhaTalisman! Themiko said with bright eyes.


    I was surprised. Themiko knew of the power of the talisman and sheknew itsname. This girl did havesomeknowledge.


    Please follow me. I want to show you something. Themikomadean inviting gesture.


    My mind shook.Another business casehaseto my door!

 Chapter 515: Using Housefly Blood to Break the Seal

    Chapter 515: Using Housefly Blood to Break the Seal


    Chiba took us to the chamber behind the main hall where they stored the offerings. This warehouse was neatly arranged. A strong smellfilledthe entire ce.Exquisite costumes, small drums, fans,and other items were neatly stacked on the bamboo shelf.


    She went deep into the warehouse until she reached a red wooden cab. She brought her palms togetherand prayedfor a short moment before pulling the drawer.


    Inside the drawer was awooden box with copper handles on each side. It looked old. She took out the box.We recognized that the box was tied with a red rope and a few tatteredKsitigarbhaTalismans. I was surprised. Where did you get these talismans?


    These talismans were from my grandmothers time.At that time, therewas a ghost that troubled this box. A master from Chinacameand subdued it. He was the one that left these talismans.


    There were different waysof drawingaKsitigarbhaTalisman.Differentpeoplewould perform the same set of moves differently. I checked the talismans and found familiar traces of my grandpa.


    Could it be my grandpa? But my grandpa had never been to Japan. Perhaps it was someone else from the Zhang family in Jiangbei.


    Can I look inside the box? I asked.


    Yes, you can. Chiba nodded.


    I moved the box in front of me. The seal on the box looked interesting. It was a hexagonal seal formation,and theKsitigarbhaTalismans reinforced the seal.Itwas a masterpiececreated byan expert. However, the talismans werentintactand the red rope was torn. The sealhad beenbroken.


    Have you kept this drawer locked the entire time? I asked.


    Only the Kannushi and I have the key of this cab, answered Chiba.


    Chuyi found a small broom and swept away a small pile of dead houseflies.


    Chiba lookedstartled. What happened?


    I checked the bottom of the box and found a hole there. Then, I pinched a flyand broughtit under my nose to take a sniff. It smelled of blood.


    Chuyi and I exchanged looks. Weunderstoodthe cause. Someoneruinedthis box deliberately!


    I exined to Chiba, These flies were fed crow blood, so they allhavethick Yin energy. Someone drilled a hole at the bottom of this box and put them into the box. The seal itselfhasthick Yang energy.SinceYin and Yangopposeeach other, the houseflies would instinctively break the seal.Although a fly isnt strong, many flies could nibble the seal and break it in the end.


    It was also a smart idea. I had a feeling that the trouble-maker was familiar with Chinese magic techniques.


    Chiba didnt understand the teachings of Yin and Yang. She blinkedand asked,Whatwillhappen if the seal is broken?


    The ghost or monster sealed insidewillescape.


    Mr. Zhang, can you seal it again?


    I shook my head. You cant take back the water you sshed away. The thing inside has escaped. Theres no meaningin sealingthis box again.By the way, can we open this box to check?


    Yes! Chiba untied the red rope and opened the box.


    My eyes brightened. A fox statue was carefully put inside the box. It wasprotected byyers of silk.


    Still,I was puzzled. Miss Chiba, we sawa simrstatue this evening. It was put on a float during the parade.However, this onehas a thickyer of dust. It seemsit has beenlocked for quite a long time.


    Chiba just smiled. Ah, the statue that we use for the festival every year is just a copy. We asked a master tocreateit. The real statue is precious, so even a low-rank Miko isnt eligible to seeit.


    I wanted to pick it up to observe.


    Hold on, Im going to get you a pair of gloves, said Chiba.


    This fox statue was made of pure silver. It felt so heavy. The surface was oxidizedand hada dark color. Chuyi and I wore glovesandcarefully lifted the statue andcedit on the silk cloth. The statue had the shape of a squatting fox withpointyears. It looked a littlenky, like a dog. At the same time, the statue was cast beautifully, with realistic fur.


    It wasnt a normal item.After all,items forged underanEmperors rulewould often have something else inside when they were cast. For example, it could beagreat monks relic, the Emperors blood, or even monster bones.


    However, therewasnt even awisp ofYin energy. It was strikingly differentfromthe copy I saw in the evening.Back then, Ifeltthreatened.


    Why did they make these ces empty? Chuyi pointed at the foxs eyes.


    The Silver Fox-samas sockets are empty all the time, arent they? Chiba didnt get it.


    No, there should be two eyeballs, said Chuyi.


    I dont know. Ive seen Silver Fox-sama three times, andI have never seen the eyes. Chiba was puzzled.


    I made a guess.We encountered a fox spirit that turned into ateenageboy wearing white clothes in Osaka.Earlier, we met the little foxy girl. Are they this Silver Foxs eyes?


    If so, the fox statue we saw this evening during the festival was the little girl. Shehadattachedherself tothat statue,which madeus think that it was an otherworldly item. Shealso saw me givethe oden chef aKsitigarbhaTalisman. Sheter took it from his food cartandtrickedusintoingto this shrine. Ididntunderstand why she had to do that. Itdidnt seem advantageousfor her.


    I told Chuyi my assumption. He answered, Perhaps she wants us to help Miss Chiba here?


    In other words, that boys assisting bad people. The little girl wants him toe back, but shes not strong enough.Soshedid thosethings tobringus here.But that white-clothed boy is in Osaka...Should we reallygoback there?The Yamaguchigroupmay be still looking for us.


    Jiulin, who do you thinkbroke this seal? asked Chuyi.


    That boy? I got it now. You mean, he willeback here?


    Chuyi nodded.


    Chiba didnt understand, soI briefed her about the situation we had encountered in Osaka and what the little girldidthis evening.After listeningto me, Chiba covered her mouth in surprise. You mean, they are the incarnations of our Fox Immortal?


    I think so, I told Chiba. I dont want to hide it from you, but myjobis to deal with otherworldly items.


    What are theseotherworldly items you speak of?


    I exined to herwhatotherworldly items were. Afterward, Chiba said, Its pretty good then. Mr. Zhang, please help our shrine. I will tell the Kannushi to repay you!


    Our price is high, though! I smiled.


    Chiba frownedand said in a serious tone,We dont havemanyproperties in the shrine. Mr. Zhang, I hope youllgive us a reasonable price


    Seeing her face,Icouldn''t bear to tellher the rules of my business,that we were supposed to take awaythe otherworldly item after thecase was solved.


    However, the thing in front of us wasanationaltreasure. Chiba couldntmake this decisionand the Kannushi of this shrine would never agree.


    I shot Chuyi a nceand askedfor his idea. He gave me a faint answer.We ept this case.


    I thought it was a good deed to maintainagood rtionship between the two countries.


    Thatsgreat! Chiba wasdelighted. Thank you, thank you, Mr. ZhangandMr. Chuyi!


    At thismoment, Yin Xinyue called me.Brother Zhang, why arent you back yet?


    Inoticedit was 11:00 PM already. We bid Chiba farewend left.

 Chapter 516: Four Divine Beasts Geomancy Set Up

    Chapter 516: Four Divine Beasts Geomancy Set Up


    Afterwe returnedto the hotel, I told Yin Xinyue about this new case. She sounded cheerful. Great! You guys can help the shrine capture some monsters! Itll bemuch more interesting than sight-seeing!


    Wheres Li Mazi?


    Oh, Li Mazi and Ru Xue didnt feel well afterbeingtrappedin that illusion onthe stairs. They went to their room to rest.


    Since we didnt have much information about the enemy, I didnt know what to prepare. I decided to visit the shrine in the morning to investigate.


    Earlythe next morning,Li Mazi didnt want to go with us no matter what. He hugged the nketand rolled on the bed. Even if we can earn money, Im not going to go with you. I dont want to encounter more trouble!


    Look at you,youcoward! I had toremindhim that Icould reveal the fact that he had rubbed the hostesss rear end. Eventually, Li Mazi unwillingly left his bed.


    Ru Xue was also hesitant, soI gave her the Ghost Sealing Pouch Chuyi used yesterday. You can use this for self-defense.


    Shewas convinced and keptthe pouch with her.


    After breakfast, we departed to Inari Shrine. We thought we were early,but there were many touriststherealready. They lined upand waitedto make a wish to the statue of Inari. Some wrote their wishes on a small wooden board.


    I want to write some wishes, too, said Yin Xinyue.


    There are so many people. We should do business first. Tonight, when no ones here, we wille again for you to make your wishes, I told her.


    While we were looking around, a man wearinga ceremonialuniform called us. He spoke inJapanese. Xiao Gao talked to him then turned to us.This is Mr. Urashima. Hes theKannushi,the Grand Priest of this Shrine. He said that tourists are notallowedto enter this ce.


    Tourists?Tell him that Ms. Chiba invited us, I said.


    Xiao Gao tranted to Urashima.Hebelieved us.


    Next, Chibaarrived while carryinga bucket of water. She hurried to brief the situation to Urashima. Urashimas attitude changed immediately. He warmly weed us. However,it seemed he hadsomething to do, so he asked Chiba to take us around.


    Yin Xinyue pulled my sleeveand pointedat Chiba. Is she the legendary shrine maiden?Sure enough,her aura isdifferent.


    Thank you! Chiba smiled gently.


    Oh, you speak Chinese? Yin Xinyue was amazed.


    I learned Chinese, answered Chiba.


    Li Mazi smiled. Miss Chiba, you are really beautiful.


    Ru Xue shot him a fierce nce.


    Aswe walked to the shrine, I saw a broken stonentern in a corner. The other touristsdidnt pay attention to it, but Chuyi and I noticed it. This stonentern was different from the othersasI saw a Vermillion Bird carved on it. I smeared some soot on the brokennternand sniffed it,smellinga wisp of Yin energy.


    This stonenternmight contain somesoilfrom the cemetery, which would havecontributed to thegeomancyof this shrine. Ingeomancy, it wasnt always good to use only Yang attribute items. Sometimes, they needed to use Yin attribute materials. When Yin and Yang cooperated, they couldstrengthentheformation.


    If I am not wrong, there should be four stonenterns like this in the four corners of the shrine. The carvings on themrepresentthe Four Divine Beasts of ancient China. They are theBlue Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and ck Tortoise, I said.


    Chiba nodded in admiration. Mr. Zhanghaskeen eyes. We have those stonenterns. However, we dont know why theyweredeliberately destroyed


    Ru Xue mocked her.Miss,the way you talkis likehowJapanese devilstalk in movies.She seemed tohave a hostileattitude toward Chiba. Perhaps,it wasbecause Li Mazi keptstealingncesather.


    Japanese devils?Do youmean theyokai? Chiba didnt get it. Since shegrewup in the shrine, she didnt have many chances to watch TV and learn new insults.


    I had tochangethe topic by asking her to take us to see other ces.


    Alongthe way, Xiao Gao helped Chibaimproveher Chinese grammar. Although Chiba sounded a little strange when she spoke, she was an intelligentwoman. Xiao Gaojust needed to show her the correct way and she could smoothen everything by herself.


    Behind the shrine was a vegetable field where theresidentsgrew vegetables.Froma distance, we saw many graves. They were lined up onenext to another. They had green grass growing on them.


    I turned to Yin Xinyue. Lets check your knowledge.Should agrave be ced in front of or behind a structure?


    Hm. Itshould be behind the structure. Its not good to have a grave in front of the house, right? Yin Xinyue frowned.


    Wrong. The graves should be put in the front! cing graves behind the house is taboo ingeomancy, I exined.


    Chiba blinked, then said, Mr. Zhang, in Japan, we dont usegeomancy. It doesnt seem toaffect us much. Please pardon me, but I think thisgeomancythingyoure talking aboutis just nonsense.


    Oh, you think its useless? I snortedand exined,First, shrines usually havestrongYang energy, soevilspiritsand ghostswont dare tobarge in easily.Next,all thepeoplewho livein shrines are usually single for the rest of their lives, so they arent influenced too much.Andstly, this shrinesgeomancywasarranged with meticulous detailby a great master. But now,just becausefour stonenternsarebroken, paranormal activities have started to happen. What do you thinkwillhappen next?


    Chibaunderstood how serious it was. Do you haveasolution?


    Whoisburied over there? I asked.


    Generations ofmiko andkannushi. They were all loyal servants of Inari-sama. I guess theyhavebe Buddhas by now. Chiba pointed at the graves. However, many warriors and samurais were also buried on this mountain. ording to what you just told me, thegeomancyshouldnt be good.


    Countless bamboo treesgrew and filledthe mountain. From ourposition, we saw a thick fog shrouding the mountain. It was true that this ce hadstrongYin energy.


    Tonight, I will mend thegeomancyof this ce. There should be no paranormal activities afterward.


    Thank you. Chiba nodded at usand lookedgrateful.


    Chuyi, who had kept silent all the time, suddenly asked, Who built this shrine?


    Chiba answered, I heard that it was the great Onmyoji Yasukiyo Abe.


    Abe no Seimeis grandson? Chuyi furrowed his brows.


    Yes. Chiba nodded.


    I used my phone tosearchfor some information. During the Heian period in Japan, Onmyojis were famous.Abe no Seimeiwas the imperial Onmyojiappointedby the Emperor himself. He was in charge of thegeomancyofthe pce and all worshipareas.


    Yasukiyo Abe wasAbe no Seimeis grandson, who had inherited the Onmyoji profession from him.


    Is thereartion between the sealed Tamamo-no-Mae and this shrine?


    At thismoment, we heardmotion from the shrine. Anothermiko came and talked to Chiba.


    Whats wrong? I asked her.


    Two tourists suddenly fainted.


    We alsowentto take a look. The two tourists were ced in aquietroom. They were one man and one womanthat lookedlike a couple. Urashima wascallingan ambnce. When I saw the couple, I felt that something was wrong.


    Chuyi walkedforwardand pulled their eyelids to check. Then, he turned to me. Their Yang energy has beensuckeddry.


    Can you save them? asked Chiba.


    Their lives arentin danger. They need to rest for a few days, and theyllbe all right.


    Ghosts wouldnt appear in broad daylight. The thing that had sucked their Yang energy was possibly a monster.The two fox spirits werethe mainsuspects.


    I looked around andnoticedthat we were allin the same ce. Hey, thisisnot good. Perhaps wehave beentrickedinto leavingthesecret areaunguarded. I think they want to steal the fox statue!


    Urashima was frightened. He rushed to the storage to check. The others followed him closely.


    When wereachedthere, Urashima had already opened the drawer, butnothing was inside. He screamed in desperation.


    Chuyi suddenly reached his handintothe drawer and took something out. It was the intact box.


    This looked like a magictrick. BothChiba and Urashima were amazed. Chuyi said, Itwasjust anillusion.


    Urashima couldnt ease his worried mind. He opened the box tocheck the content. Butas soon asthe fox statue was taken out of the box, Xiao Gao suddenly snatched it from himand ranaway!

 Chapter 517: Luring the Tiger into Leaving the Den

    Chapter 517: Luring the Tiger into Leaving the Den


    It happened so suddenly. Xiao Gao first bumped into Li Maziand made him fall to the ground.Then, he snatched the fox statue and rushed out of the storage.


    We didnt lingerand boltedout to chase after him. Urashima yelledfor help. Severalmikos andpriests tried toblockhim, butXiao Gao wasthe same as that womanin thesocialclub. He wastoostrong. He used his shoulders to send someprieststo the groundbefore rushingtoward the yard.


    I called Chuyi to help meblockXiao Gao. Xiao Gaos arms were protecting the fox statue. His eyes had turned redashe bared his fangs furiously at us.


    I wielded the Sirius Whipandshedforward. Xiao Gao was running between the stonenterns. There were many timeswhereI almosthadhim. Unfortunately, my whip hitastonentern, so the man slithered awaylike an eel. Moreover, the yard hadmany stonesand trees thatblocked our path.We couldnt grab him.


    Suddenly,Chibacame over and screamed, Theres no need to chase him. The real fox statue has been taken out of the shrine!


    What did you say?


    I turned to look at Xiao Gao. He was hiding behind astone, waiting for us to chase him.


    I bit the tip of my tongue, and the pain woke me up.The itemin Xiao Gaos handswasnt the fox statue. It was just a rock!


    He had taken the real fox statue from Urashima.However,when he went to the door, someone had helped him. They swapped the rock and the fox statue. We were chasing after Xiao Gaoand thus gavethe other person time to run away with the real fox statue.


    Ilooked atChuyiandhurriedlydescended the mountain.


    We saw a minibus parked by the road. The bald uncle wesawin thesocialclub in Osaka craned his neck out of the window. He gaveus an evil smirk before they drove away.


    I rolled my eyesin disbelief.They had stolen the fox statue inbroad daylight under our watch!


    Chiba rushed to where we were standingandsaw the minibusleave. She was so worriedthat she lost her temper.Are you two fools or what? You let them go! What should we do now?


    She squattedand clutchedher head worriedly.


    I suddenly recognizedthat the way she spoke was different from Chiba. Moreover, Chibas Chinese wasntthat good.


    Chuyi alsorealizedthis. He drew his eight-facedHan swordand pointed itat her throat. He saidcoldly,Who are you?


    Chiba was frightened. Sheraisedher hands and a fluffy tail abruptly appeared behind her.


    At thismoment, the real Chiba and Yin Xinyue arrived from the mountain path. They were shockedto seethe scene. The fake Chiba slowly transformed and turnedinto the little fox that hadmessedwith us yesterday.


    Tell me everything you know.Now! ordered Chuyi.


    The littlefoxsears folded forward dispiritedly. All right.


    When we returned to the shrine,Xiao Gaohad beencaptured. A few men from the shrine were holding him down.


    Xiao Gao had foamat the corner ofhis mouth and was trying to bite them. I took out atalisman and stuckit on his forehead.He finallystopped wiggling.


    Chuyi checked Xiao Gaos water bottle. He took a sniff and found that the water had something in it. It was the same foxs saliva that the hostess in thepubdrank.


    ThisstuffhadcausedXiao Gao to lose his mind.He was likelyambushed before wereached theshrine.


    What is the rtionship between you and the boy in white? Chuyi asked the little fox.


    The little fox scanned the surroundings. She looked scaredanddidnt want to talk.


    I turned to Chiba. Could we get a quiet room to interrogate her?


    Chiba nodded. Yes, let me take you there.


    We then escorted the little fox to an empty room. Urashima stayed to take care of Xiao Gao.


    Whenwewere inthe room, the little girl stomped her feet. She pouted and yelled,My goodwill isreally wasted! Ive tried to help you continuously and youtreat me like this!


    Helped us? Like yesterday? I snapped back.


    The little girl crossed her arms in front of her chest. I justwanted to test your capacity. I didnt hurt you.


    Little fox, youre boldto say that.I almostwent crazyyesterday! Li Mazi felt his blood boil when the girl remindedusof the situationst night.


    Ru Xue opened her eyes wideand mutteredto me,Brother-inw, is she a real monster?


    When the little girl heard that, she bared her sharp fangs. Ru Xue was scaredand huggedLi Mazis arm.


    The little girl introduced herself. Im Jade Tail.Theboyinwhite is Jade Fang. We are the guards ofTamamo noMae-sama.


    So you are very, very old, right? asked Yin Xinyue.


    NoWe were dormant most of the time.


    What Jade Tail told uswasshocking. This little girl and the boy weremonsters that TamamonoMaecreated from hersoul. They were likeherclones. However, they didnt havegreat power. They only knew how to tempt people and create illusions.


    After killing TamamonoMae back then, Abe no Seimei sealed the two little foxes inside two crystal balls. Theter became the eyes of the Silver Fox Guardian. Although people said that they were enshrined in this temple, thetruthwas that they were sealed here!


    As timepassed, the power of the seal woreout. The two fox spirits were finally able to escape. Jade Fang thought that there was no more powerful Onmyoji like Abe noSeimeiin this era, so he decided to revive Tamamo no Mae. He cooperated with a businessman named Tanaka. Tanaka sent his people toruinthegeomancyof this shrine. Of course, healsohad a hand in the robbery of the Silver Fox Guardian.


    Compared to Jade Fang, Jade Tail was much kinder. She understood thatbecauseTamamo no Maehad beensealed for more than one thousand years, her resentful aurahad tobe extremely high.Ifshe was released, no one could imagine the consequences.However, she alone couldnt stop Jade Fang. Later,sheidentallylearnedthat we could draw this sort oftalisman, so shedecided to usher us from the hotel to the shrine.


    After telling us the story, Jade Tail got on her kneesand beggedus. I can help you stop Jade Fang.However,I have a request. Please dont hurt him.


    I pondered. Is thereartionship between the Silver Fox Guardian statue and the seal that imprisoned Tamamo no Mae?


    No, theresnothing. Jade Tail shook her head.


    Then why did he wantto steal that statue? I was puzzled.


    Chiba exined, Silver Fox Guardian-sama is the treasure that guards this shrine. Once people know that the statue is missing, it willhave a verybad effecton us. Mr. Urashima will have toask for forgivenessand resign.Furthermore, this shrines management could change.


    The management?


    The shrinebelongs to thegovernment. Butif business isnt good, theymight letsomeone else manage it, Chiba answered.


    It seemed the baldunclewas apossible buyer.


    I asked Jade Tail, Still,whywouldTanaka want this shrine?


    Maybe Jade Fang told him that theres a gold mine or a treasure underneath the shrine. Tanaka is acorruptbusinessman, after all,Jade Tail answered.


    Howcan you know so much?


    Becauseif I were him, I would trick themanin the same fashion. We are foxes. We often deceive people like that! The littlefoughedand showedher fangs.


    Jade Fang and her were like twins; they grew up together. Of course, their thinkingwasthe same, so they couldnt fool each other.


    You can still wear that proud face? Li Mazi fumed.


    Jade Tail made a faceathim.


    But whats here?Is Tamamo no Mae sealed here? I asked.


    Jade Tail nodded. Tamamo no Mae-sama is sealed on the mountain behind this shrine!

 Chapter 518: Tamamo no Mae-sama

    Chapter 518: Tamamo no Mae-sama


    Do you know whereshe issealed? I asked.


    I dont know the exact location, but I can sense Tamamo no Mae-samasaura exuding from the mountain. Jade Tailspreadherarms.


    Yin Xinyue was curious. Little fox, how can you speak Chinesesowell? Arent you a Japanese fox?


    Tamamo no Mae-samacame fromChina. Thats why we can speak thenguage. Moreover, Ive been out for ten years already! pouted Jade Tail.


    I thought you just escaped. I was surprised.


    We were sealed inside the silver fox, and it was really hard toweakenthe seal. Unfortunately, a Chinese master who liked tostickhis nose in otherpeoples business came and reinforced the seal. Later, there was a timewhenthey took out the silver fox to mend something. We took that chance and bewitchedtheexpert in charge,makinghim destroy the seal. Thats howwe were able te out to y! Jade Tail proudly lifted her chin.


    Whatdid the man who reinforced the seal look like? I asked.


    Hmm, helookedsimr to you


    What? I was amazed.


    You are so annoying! How could I knowwhathelookslike? I was still sealed at that time!


    Ihad toask my grandpa about this matterthe next time I sawhim.


    Jade Tail yawned. She wasdwelling inside anotherworldlyitem, so she couldnt endurethe daylight fora long time. If shewantedto live longer, shehad toabsorb Yin energy like Jade Fang. She eventually turned into a crystal-clear zed bead. I put her into my bag to protect her.


    Chiba frowned. Mr. Zhang, this bead


    Dont worry. Ill keep it safe. After everything is solved, Ill give it back to you, I said.


    We leftthechamber. Urashima told us that Xiao Gao had woken upand that he was about to call the police.


    Please dont. If the policeand seal this ce, wewont be able todo much. If weare unlucky, they will take us to the station for oral confessions. Itwont begood for Xiao Gaoas he will be the mainsuspect.


    SinceXiao Gao wasnt here, Chiba had to trante for us. Urashima thought it was reasonable. He agreed that he wouldnt call the police. However, he hoped that we would bring back their Silver Fox Guardian as soon as possible.Since it was a hard task,I didnt dare to promise anythingand just saidthat I would do my best.


    Itwould besillyto searchthe wholecity. Furthermore,we werent detectives. I decided to use a passive approach. We would wait here for Jade Fang. As long as we got him, the Silver Fox Guardian would return.


    Chuyi and Iwanted to goto the mountain to check. However, Li Mazis waist was hurting sinceXiao Gao had bumped into him; he didnt want to go. Ru Xuewanted tostay with him, too. I asked Yin Xinyue to stay with them, but she insisted that shewith us.


    In the end, Chuyi, Yin Xinyue, Chiba, and I went to the mountain behind the shrine together.


    It was a small mountain, and the mountain trail wasntverysteep. The bamboo forest was silent, and athick mist hovered like ayer of miasma. Yin Xinyue pulled my arm. She looked scared.


    Chuyi pinched some soil between his fingersand observed it. After a while, he said quietly, Many people died here


    Thiswasabattlefield! Those samuraiswerefighting every day to im the territory. A voice came from my chest. It was Jade Tail talking.


    Chuyi chantedaspell. Little Lin protruded from his chest. He floated and ledthe wayforus. Soon, we saw a broken statue. We couldnt tell what it used to be fromitsremains.


    When Little Lin passed the stone statue, he shed like a brokentelevisionscreen. I immediatelyunderstoodwhat was happening. This stone statue was part ofasealing formation, whichled us to believethatitwas really vast as itcoveredthe entire mountain.


    The power of the sealing formation is weakening, I said. Since Little Lin was aspiritualbeing, if the formation was strong enough,hewouldnt be able togothere.


    Chuyi nodded.


    Chiba asked, Mr. Zhang, can we mend it?


    I assume wellhave to break the seal and createa new one. Of course,the most dangerous moment is when webreakthe seal. If we are careless, Tamamo no Mae can escape before we can cast another seal I said.


    Chuyi suddenly gestured at my chest. I understoodwhat he meant. He was still cautious against Jade Tail. He was afraid that the two foxes were cooperating and they would take actiononcewe lifted the seal.


    His worriescouldnt be dismissed.Ifwe identally released Tamamo no Mae, we couldnt imagine the consequences.


    We should leave the mountain to prepare somethings. Wellebacter, I said.


    Whenwe returnedto the shrine, I asked Li Mazi to buy something.SinceJade Tail could listen to our conversation, I casually told him some general items whileI textedhim. I askedhim to get me a bag of lime, a bag of jade fragments, a bag of lead powder, a few ck snakes, iron nails, several shovels, and a bottle of rooster blood.


    Li Mazi smiled.Little brother, the stuff you want has be more and more difficult to get. Were in Japan. Where should I go to get them?


    Chibancedat the list. We can get them in Kyoto. I can go with you.


    Li Mazi was happythatChiba wanted to apany him, butRu Xue immediately intervened. No, thank you. My husband can doeverything by himself. Isnt thatright, honey?


    Li Mazi was embarrassed. All right, all right. Ill figure it outter.


    You should get themas soon as possible. Youd bettere back herebefore nightfall. This time, the situation isratherplicated, Itoldhim.


    Okay, Im leaving now.


    Li Mazi and Ru Xue left first. Due to thenguage barrier, Xiao Gao went with them. Yin Xinyue, Chuyi, and I left for lunch.


    At around 2:00 PM, Li Mazi, Ru Xue, and Xiao Gaoreturned. They told methat theyboughtall the stuff.


    LittleBrother Zhang, I couldnt find the jade fragments, soI bought real jade andground itinto a powder. You dont know how hard it is to buy jade in Japan. I spent a lot of money!


    I checked the items. Its okay. Ill pay you back.


    Hey, I havent asked you yet...But how muchcan weearn this time?


    Im not gonna mistreat you.Li Maziwould throw a tantrumif he knew there would be no payment.


    I asked Xiao Gao to take Yin Xinyue and Ru Xueon atour or go shopping with them.This afternoonwould be a busy one, and there would be nothing interesting to see.When we went to the shrine to find Chiba, Li Mazi became more livelyand teased hersinceRu Xue wasnt there. Chiba was polite enough togo along with him.


    I pulled Li Mazi aside and said, Canyou please mind your image? Shes amiko, and you asked her if shehasa boyfriend. Do you want to bebeaten ck and blue?


    Shes such a beautiful girl. Itsme that shes living like a nun. Li Mazi shook his head and sighed.


    Youre truly hopeless! I didnt know if I should cry orugh.


    The four of us went to the mountain. We decided that Chuyiwouldbreakthe seal while Li Mazi and Iwould prepare the newformation.Wehad to carryout the tasksat the same timeto increase our odds of sess.


    If itwasan ordinarysoul, we would just need a small formation todeal withit. However, this sealing formation was used to seal a fox spirit that hadcultivated forseveral thousand years. Wehad toprepare arge-scale formationfor it.


    I used limepowderto draw a hexagram. Then,I started to dig a ditch with Li Mazis help. The entire process took two hours.The sky abovebecamedarker in themeantime. Afterward, we sprinkled the jade powder into the ditch, covering it withlead powder. I thenpoured the rooster blood to finish the arrangement.


    Jades were items with thick Yang energy,but they weregentle at the same time. My grandpa used to tell me that if we casually used stuff with thick Yang energy to seal evilspirits, thespiritswouldfightback hard. If that happened, they wouldbe able to chip the seal bit by bit.


    Abe no Seimeis seal wasgentle. Thatwaswhy it couldst for more than one thousand years.


    Afterwe finished withthe outeyer, we went to the core of the seal. There was a huge pine tree that stood alone in a vastandempty area. Chuyiwas standingunder the tree.


    Ive been waiting for you guys for quite a long time. This ce is the eye of the formation. I havent opened it yet,he said.


    Lets start with thest step! I said.


    But all of a sudden, I felt so exhausted.Everything in front of me turned ck.

 Chapter 519: The Night Parade of One Hundred Ghosts

    Chapter 519: The Night Parade of One Hundred Ghosts


    Li Mazi pinched me several times to wake me up. At this time,it was already dark outside.


    Jade Tail sounded aggrieved. Its not my fault that hekeptme with him!


    What happened to me? I held my head. I feltdizzy and light-headed.


    Shes been sucking your Yang energy, said Chuyi.


    What? I was surprised. You stinky little fox, was thatyourwayof repayingthefavor?


    Jade Tail felt irritated. What do you meanby favor?You eat rice, and IeatYang energy. Its normal for me to eat, isnt it? I just took a bit of energy from you, and you fainted.Whyareyoumingme forbeing so weak?


    This little foxhadasharptongue. She made myblood boil.


    Chuyi said, This thing is really dangerous. She has not been tamed yet. You shouldnt bring her with you all the time.


    What''s this thingyou mentioned? Its not polite totalk about agirl like that! Jade Tail had her hands anchored at her waist. She fumedand jumpedout of mybag.


    I got up and sighed. We should continue topreparethe seal.


    It seemed something washidden inside the pine treeasit was blockingthe eye oftheformation. However, wecouldntget inside thetree to check.


    Then,I remembered Jade Tail. Miss Jade Tail, we have to ask a favor of you.


    She said contentedly,Oh? Whatdo I get in exchange?


    Ill buy yousomething good to eat,I said as I tried to coax her.


    Geez, I dont want food! I want new clothes!


    Okay, okay!


    Jade Tail turned into her fox formand entered ahole at the tree stump.She shortly returnedand transformedback to her human form. While brushing off the brown leaves on her body, she said, Arusted samurai sword and a set of armor are inside.


    I guessed theseitemswereused to kill many peopleandgraduallyumtedstrong murderous energy. Thatwaswhy they were used to guard the seal.


    We didnt have simr items to rece them. I discussed it with Chuyi and we both agreed that we woulduse them for the new formation as well.


    As we were about to activate the new sealing formation, police sirens howled from the foothind echoedthrough the night sky. Chiba rushed to checkand said,Not good. There are many policemen in the shrine.


    I was surprised. I told Urashima not to call the police, didnt I?


    The situation hadbplicated. I decided to activate the formation first. I put on the gloves and grabbed a few ck snakes, nailingthem onto the pine trees. When their bloodslumped fromthe tree to the soil, I started to read the spell.


    As soon as I finished reading the spell, a group of people with shlights in their hands came to the mountain. Urashima led this group of policemen. He pointed at usand ranted aboutsomething. From his tone, I knew they didnte in peace.


    Jade Tail was scared. She turned into her bead formand wentback into my bag.


    The policementook outtheir pistols and shouted. Chiba hurried to exin to them. However, Urashima hostilely pulled her aside.


    What did they say? I asked.


    They said you were the aplices thatstolethe Silver Fox Guardian. They told you to stay still


    Before Chiba could finish, Urashima yelled at her. I guessed he wanted to shut her up.


    My head buzzed.IsUrashima nning to push the me on us, ordoes he have something else in mind?


    We were just Chinese touriststhat couldn''tspeak thelocanguage. We couldntmunicate with them. Eventually, they came to cuff us. My heart chilledas we might end up in jail.


    Li Mazitried to exinhimself with tears on his face, hopingthe other partywould understandwhat he was saying.


    Chuyis eight-facedHan sword was confiscated as they considered it a weapon. His face was emotionless, and he didntshow weaknesswhen hefaced the policemen.


    Mr. Zhang, Iwillfind a way to rescue you! Chiba screamed.


    I asked quietly, Jade Tail, can you help us?


    I can! Jade Tails fox head protruded from the bag. But you have to bear all theconsequences!


    All right, dont do it! I hurried tosay.


    She snortedanddidnt sound pleased.


    She was a monsterand might use extreme methods. If she caused big trouble,we would be doomed.


    The policemen took us down the mountain to where a few police cars were parked. I thought Iwas done for, buta shotgun resounded all of a sudden. Many people crouched in fright. A young cop heldapistol with both hands,shakilypointing itin acertain direction.


    The chief ran to him and yelled at his face. The young man tried to exin himself.


    This scenein front of me was like a drama without subtitles. Soon, I knew what had just happened. A headless samurai withbrokenarmor slowly approached the police chieffrom behind. Many people saw him. They screamed and shouted.


    The chief also turned to see, and his eyes opened wide in shock. The samurairaisedhis swordand hackedat the officer. The chief officernded on his butt. He wasparalyzedfromfear.


    A few shotguns echoed. However, the bullets went through the samurais body, which made his figuresh. It wasas if the bullets had hit a reflection in the water.


    I looked around. A thick fog had arisen within the shrine. Somehuman figuresappearedin the fog, bothancientandmodern. Themikos, staff, and policemen screamed in fear.


    Thecewas inpletechaos. Idiscoveredthat Japanese people were really afraid of ghosts.Did they believe in their existence?


    The policemenfiredtheir guns unceasingly. The shrines staff andmikos ran to hide inside the shrine.


    While I was watching the fun, I heard a crackle. My handcuff was unlocked. Ilowered my headand found Jade Tail with a tiny key in her hand. She blinkedat me. How will you thank me for this?


    Where did you take the key?


    I made it from a leaf!Sigh, I stole it, of course!


    She also uncuffed Chuyi and Li Mazi. As soon as we were free, we backed off to a rtively safe area. There were bulletsflying everywhere. We didnt want to get hurt.


    Someone touched me from behind. It was Chiba. Mr. Zhang, Mr. Urashima hasdisappeared!


    Im sure hes going to the mountain. He wants to destroy our seal!


    Iunderstoodit now. Urashima was the other partys aplice. If he hadnt insistedon openingthe box to check, Jade Fang wouldnt have hadthechance tostealthe statue.At that time, we hadntsuspectedhim yet.


    We immediately headed to the mountain. If we caught Urashima, we would be able to clear our names.


    As soon as we got to the mountain trail, we saw numerous ghosts wandering around the mountain. There werea lotof them. At first nce, they made me think of the event calledthe night parade of one hundred ghosts.


    Oh myGod! Li Mazi hid behind a tree. Im not going! Im not going! Anyway, Im no help. Ill wait for you guys here!


    I wanted to scold him, but I saw a long-haired banshee behind Li Mazi. Itlooked like Sadako inThe Ring.


    I smiledand said,Hey, look whats behind you.


    Li Mazi turned and screamed. He swunghis arms and legsandranto hide behind me.


    Atthis moment, countless souls were attracted byourauras.They started to swarm toward us.


    Chiba made hand sealsand shouted, Evil spirits, get lost!


    Thanks to herbloodline, she still had some magic powers that helped her sweep away the weak souls.


    I drew my Sirius Whipand read somespells. The whip moved like a snake. All the soulsit hitturned intosmoke. Chiba was amazed.


    Those souls didnt havegreat strength, so Chuyi didnt need to take action.


    I cleared a path andtold them to follow me. However, I wasnt awarethata samurai had approached me from behind. When I turned to see, he had already wielded his katana, ready to hack at my head. My heart chilledat thismoment.


    On your knees! Chuyi made a hand seal.


    The samurai kneltin front of me as if he was pressed downby a mountain. He clenched histeeth and usedthe katana to support himself.


    From my position, I could see his guts spilling out. He was bleeding. Perhaps he had performedseppukutomit suicide.All theghosts that diedby the way ofsuicide had strong resentful energy.


    Chuyi drew his sword out of its sheathand gently moved it. The samurai was beheaded; he turnedinto smoke and vanished.

 Chapter 520: Creating an Escape Path

    Chapter 520: Creating an Escape Path


    The ghostsonthis mountain werent strong, but there werea lotof them. We couldnt movequicklyenough.


    I guessed all the resentfndwandering ghosts in Kyoto had gathered here. Therewasalso arge number of samurai. Although Japan isnt as big as China, therewerecontinuous wars in its history. Moreover, samurais were proud. When they lost the battle, they woulmitseppuku to save their reputation. The resultwas this great numberof wandering ghosts.


    Li Mazi said, Brother, whyhavethese ghosts suddenlye here?


    I remembered there was a section inthe legendthat mentioned the ughtering Stone.That thingcould absorb the energy from the ghosts. They may havee here because of the ughtering Stone, but the stone is still weak now. I guess the stone wants toabsorb thewaves of souls to rebuild Tamamo no Maes body.


    Chiba said, We should find it quickly. Hurry, or itll be toote.


    Chuyi frowned.It seemed he wasabout to use his sword toprickhis hand. I guessed hewanted tousea bigtechniqueto open a path. However, I was worriedabouthim.


    I stopped him. Ive gota solution. However, we will have to suffer a bit.


    A bit of suffering isnt much, as long as its not dangerous, said Li Mazi.


    Dont worry.It''s not dangerous.Im sure the soulswict like they dont see us. I turned to Jade Tail. Please suck our Yang energy, but not too much. Take it to the point where the soulswill no longer be able tosense us.


    Great!Thatsa great idea! Li Mazi appraised me. LittleBrother Zhang, yourmindis gettingsharperandshaper. You could evene up withsuch an idea!


    Jade Tail was sitting idly on a tree stump. When I called her, she pulled herself togetherand lickedher lips. Oh well, Iwontbe polite then!


    She jumped offand startedto suck our Yang energy. A wisp of warm air floated from us,which connectedto Jade Tails mouth. When I started to feel light-headed, Iquickly said,All right, enough. If you suck more, we will faint.


    Jade Tail patted her tummy. Thank you forthetreat!


    We were a bit dizzy, but the soulsignored us now.It seemed they didnot see us.


    Isaid to the others,Lets go!


    It felt so strange moving among the horde of ghosts. Many ghosts had kept their original appearance. But somewere headless,had theirgutsspilledoutasthough they had died ina car crash, orwere cutinto halvesat the waist. Anyway,most of them had empty eyesand movedasthoughthey weresoulless corpses.


    Li Mazi grabbed my arm. Chiba hugged herself. We didnt dare to say anything as we were afraid that we would startle them.


    When we reached the ce where the seal was ced, we recognized that someone had cut through the ditch we had dugearlier. The souls were streaming into the formation through that hole.


    Things weredifficult now. We didnt have the materials to mend the seal. We could only move forward.


    When we entered the eye of the formation, I heardachopping noise. A man was hacking hisaxat the pine tree. He had blood all over his body. I guessed he had poured crow blood or snake blood on his body to disguise himself. The souls couldnt smell himdue tothe thick scent of blood.


    Itwas Urashima!


    Chiba called him. He turned, and when he saw us, he jerkedback in surprise.


    Fortunately, he hadnt chopped off the pine tree yet. The soulsstoodin wavesas they waitedfor their turn to be absorbed by the ughtering Stone.Thewhite mass of souls in front of uslooked so eerie.


    I wielded the Sirius Whip, andChuyi drew his eight-facedHan sword.


    Isaidto Urashima. Give it up. Otherwise, dont me us fornot showingmercy!


    Urashima gritted his teeth. He dropped theax and pickedup a bag on the ground. Then, he started to runaway. We hurried behind him.


    I wanted to use the Sirius Whip to deal with him, but Chuyi grabbed my hand. There were so many souls around. If we alerted them, they would swarm and swallow us whole.


    Chuyi threw out a few paper cranesthatchased after Urashima. We just needed to follow the cranes to find him.Right whenUrashima was about to cross the line of wandering souls, Ished the Sirius Whip at his ankle. Urashima screamed and dropped the bag in his hand.


    I advancedand coiledthe whip around his neck. What is your purpose?Tell me!


    He spoke Japanese,soI didnt understand. Luckily for us, Chiba came. I asked her to interpret it for us.


    She hesitated for a whilethen said,He said you shouldnt put your nose in his business.


    Chiba talked to him. At first, Urashima looked stirred up. Gradually, hebecamedispiritedand punchedthe ground.


    Chuyi picked up the bag.The Silver Fox Guardian was inside.


    Jade Tail, didnt you say this thing has nothing to do with the seal? I asked.


    I dont know! Jade Tail came from behind me. I didnt cast this thing.


    Thissilver fox was the key to releasingTamamo no Mae.The momentChuyi was about to put it backinthe bag, he suddenly thrust his sword into the air. A young man wearing white clothes appeared. He clutched his wounded armand steppedbackward.


    He said through his gritted teeth, You ruined everything!


    Jade Fang, youve finallye! Jade Tail pped her hands cheerily.


    Whydoyou help these mortals? Its our mission to resurrect Tamamo no Mae-sama, isnt it? Jade Fang scolded his twin.


    We dont have such a mission. If Tamamo no Mae-sama is revived, the entire area ofKyoto, no, theentirety ofJapan will suffer


    I dont care if those mortals die ornot! Youre a traitor!


    Then, Jade Fang showed his fangsand redat Jade Tail. The two bared their fangs andraisedtheir sharp ws and fluffy tails. Theybeganto entangle in a battle in the middle of the empty ce. Their moves were beautiful, but they also made peoplenervous.


    Chuyi pulled me backsince he saw thatI wanted to go and help her. We should send those souls away. Its dangerous to let them congregate here.


    Howcanwe send them away? I asked.


    Chuyi grabbed the fox statue. He bit his finger anddrippedhis blood onit. The statue sucked his blood through the fox snout.


    I wasshocked. This thinghad tobe a famous relic that I hadnt known about yet.


    I guess Tamamo no Maes bonesaresealed in this silver statue. Thats why she can summon so many souls, said Chuyi.


    Makes sense. I nodded.


    This thing acted like a super ma. In other words,wehad to sealit.


    Jade Tail gradually got the upper hand. Originally, they were equally powerful. However, since Jade Tail had just sucked our Yang energy, she was stronger. She scratched his face, which then bled. Jade Fang retreatedand clenchedhis jaw angrily.


    Jade Fang roaredand dashedtoward the eye of the formation. Along the way, he grabbed andswallowedthe souls.


    Not good! That foxs eating the souls! I screamed.


    Jade Fang swallowed dozens of souls in just a blink of an eye. His body reeked of thick Yinenergy. Hiseyesturnedmalicious.


    Jade Tail screamed in fright. Jade Fang, please dont do that!


    You should all die! Jade Fang roaredand lungedtoward us. Jade Tail wanted to stop him, but she was sent away with his paw. Her petite body flew past meand hit a tree.


    Right after that, Jade FangtargetedChiba, whowasnt able toprotect herself. Chiba paled in fright. Ished my whip, but he caughtitwith his hand. Although his palm sizzled and smoked, he didnt letgo of it and pulledthe whip.


    Chuyi cameand raisedhis sharp sword, butJade Fang flew to dodge his attack.He abruptly transformedinto a big fox, wing atChuyi. Dust rose high from the ground, andChuyi disappeared.


    I was frightened.Was he smashed to death?


    Filthy animal, die! Chuyi screamed.


    In the next moment, the giant fox disappeared. It was just an illusion.


    Jade Fang was so scaredthathe swiftlymovedaround to avoid the eight-facedHan sword.


    Then, the surroundings suddenly burned with high mes.


    Of course, it wasanother illusion. Chuyi continued his attack.


    Jade Fangs power only included magic illusions.Sincehe was busted,he could onlydodge Chuyis attacks.


    At thismoment, Li Mazi came out from behind a tree. I didnt knowwhyhe had been hiding there, buthe had chosenthis moment to show up.


    Jade Fang smelled the scent of aliving human. He grabbed Li Mazi from behindand triedto bite his throat. Li Mazistruggled and fell tothe ground. Jade Fang was so strongthatLi Mazi simply couldntfightagainsthim.


    Youre courting death! Chuyi darted his Han sword. The sword swooshedand thrustinto Jade Fangs chest.


    Noooooo! Jade Tail screamed her heart out. Her voice lingered through the woods.

 Chapter 521: The Great Femme Fatale

    Chapter 521: The Great Femme Fatale


    Jade Fang looked at the sword that hadpierced throughhis chest incredulouslyandvomited blood.Jade Tail screamed and rushed to hug him.


    Jade Fang eventually shrank into a crystal bead.


    Jade Tail shot Chuyi a malicious lookand baredher sharp fangs. Ill kill you!


    Sheflew fast towardhim, butChuyi used two fingersandquicklydrewatalismanin theair, which then hit Jade Tailsforehead. Jade Tail shriekedandalso shrank into a crystal bead.


    They scared thecrapout of me! Li Mazi wiped the sweatoffhis foreheadand gotup.


    Where did you go earlier? I asked.


    You guysranso fast that Icouldntevenseeyour shadows. Ghostswereeverywhere,soI didnt even dare to scream for help. It took me a lot of time to find you. Li Maziput onan aggrieved face. He then picked up the beadsfromthe ground. How much arethese worth?


    Give them to me. Chuyi extended his hand. Li Mazi unwillingly gave him the beads.


    Did you kill that little fox? I asked.


    No, that boy is a part of Tamamo no Maes soul. He cant die that easily. I guess he will be dormant for a while,Chuyi answeredindifferently.


    You bastard! Ill kill you! yelled Jade Tail. Her image shed inside the bead Chuyi was holding.


    Chuyi wasntphased. He put the two beads back into the eye sockets of the silver fox.


    I didnt know ifit was an illusion,but when the beads were returned to their positions, I saw a sh of silver lightmovealong the statue. It madethe statue look morelively.


    Lets seal it again,saidChuyi.


    Okay!


    I called Li Mazi to help Urashima get up.It was time toleave the mountain. The wanderingandlost soulsonthe mountainwerealready attracted to us. They were congregatingonthespot. However, they were limping theentireway,sothey werentveryfast.


    On the way down the mountain,I said,Chuyi, I want todiscusssomething.


    Yeah?


    I want to keep this little fox, I said.


    Although shes not menacing, shes a monster. Moreover, she sucks peoples Yang energy.


    I ponderedand thoughtabout giving upon it. But then, Chuyi continued, If you really want to keep her, Illhelp you tame her.Still, Illhave to bring her to Mitu Temple to train her and eliminate her wild character. It will take time.


    Jade Tail scolded from inside the bead. You stinky Daoist priest! When I get out of here, Ill bite youto death!


    I wore a wry smile. Although this little fox looked cute, her wild character needed to be tamed.


    I had alwaysenviedChuyi for having the little Daoist boy as his assistant. I had dreamtof a little monsterbeingmy assistant, but it should be mutually agreed upon.


    I asked Jade Tail, Hey, do you want to go to China with us?


    China She repeated the name. No matter what, it was her hometown. What will you do to Jade Fang?


    His soul is sealed now. He will sleep for a dozen years, said Chuyi.


    I told her, You have to think about it carefully.Afterwe seal the silver fox statue one more time, you will be sealed inside for a few decades.


    All right! Im going to China! Jade Tail agreed.But you have to let me suck your Yang energy!


    In your dreams!


    Are you rich?


    Not filthy rich, but if you wantfood, I cangive it to you.


    Okay, I agree. If you fool me, Ill bite you until youredead!


    Her wild characterwould be hard to tame!


    Chuyi told me that after everything was solved, I should use my blood to write my name on a piece of paper and Jade Tails name on the otherside. He would then move Jade Tail into the paper. We could carry her with us this way. After we returned to China, we would find a fox statue to be her body.


    Chiba caught uptous. I knowwhat happened!It turns out Urashimas original name is Tanaka. Hes the bald uncles son.


    It turned out thebald uncle was involved inshadybusiness deals. Heeventuallywentbankruptandaskedhis son for help. He even suggestedstealingsome valuable things from the shrine to sell for money.


    Jade Fang overheard their conversation. He made a deal with thembut saidthey wouldhave tohelp him release Tamamo no Mae first. With her power, getting rich would be as easy as flipping ones hand.


    The father and sonbegan to take action.First, theyruined the geomancyof the shrine. Then, they stole the Silver Fox Guardian anddestroyedthe seal.Still, they had never thought that their efforts would go in vainbecause of us.


    If hewasa suspect of a national treasure robbery, Urashimawould lose his job. He could even be put in jail.


    Chiba told us that Urashima implored us not to expose the bald uncleand that he would bear the crime himself. He didnt want to get his father involved.


    I knew Urashima was a filial son.To helphis father rise again, hedideverything he could, even evil deeds. Anyway, we wereframedand almost jailed, so I didnt feel sorry for him.I nned to tell the police everything aboutthis national treasure thievery case.


    When we reached the shrine, the police were still there.When they sawus, they produced their pistolsand aimedat us. Then, they saw that we were holding the fox statue. They also sawthe great horde of souls slowly moving behind us. They were petrified. None of them couldspeak.


    Chibawent overto exin that weneeded to sealthe Silver Fox Guardian.Otherwise, the ghosts would have a nice parade here.


    The policemenweren''t fully convinced, butthey had nochoice but tobelieveus. Chiba stayed to talktothem about Urashimas casewhile the three of us took the key from herandopened the storage chamber. We had to seal the fox now.


    There were papers and red ropes in the storage. As Chuyiinstructed, I wrote my name and Jade Tails name on a piece of paper and gave it to him. While ChuyimovedJade Tail to the paper, I used the red threads to weave a small sealing formation.


    Jade Tail was sessfully moved to the paper. We then put the fox statue back into the box and sealed the box with a few talismans before finally locking it in the drawer.


    When wecameout, many policemen were watching the mountain. The ghosts disappeared one after another. The mountain sight recovered its calmness. However, the thick fog still lingered andshroudedthe bamboo forest.


    The casefinally came to an end, and the police took Urashima away. We were so tiredthatwe immediately returnedto the hotel to rest. When Yin Xinyue and Rue Xue came back from their shopping trip, they looked upsetbecausethey knew they had missedout on thefun.


    The next day, we brought some stuff and returned to the shrine. There were two things we needed to do. One, we had to mend Tamamo no Maes seal. Two, we needed to fix and improve the shrinesgeomancy, which would stop the paranormal activities at night. Both requiredbor,but they werent really difficult.


    Chiba couldnt thank us enough. She gave us a small paymentofaround one hundred thousandrenminbiafter converting. It seemed the shrine wasnt really rich.


    Since Urashimahas beenarrested, who will be thekannushi in your shrine? You? I asked.


    Chiba smiled. Of course not. Its impossible. Nomiko has ever be akannushi.


    This tradition isnt fair to women I said.


    Women in Japan have never had high positions.Chiba wore a wry smile. I hope Icanwee you guys when you visit Japan again.


    Before we left, Ru Xue found out that Li Mazi had stealthily asked for Chibas phone number. On the way home, shegaveLi Mazia difficult time. We didnt even have apeacefulmoment. I guessed that when theyreturnedhome, Li Maziwould haveto kneel on theground and ask for forgiveness.


    While we were waitingto board the neat the airport, I suddenly spotted a woman wearingvish ancient clothes. She wasstanding and looking at me. She was extremely stunning. From her clothes and essories, shehad tobe Tamamo no Mae, otherwise known asDaji the fox spirit!


    Not good, Daji has escaped! I screamed and woke up from my dream.


    Yin Xinyue was yingthe gameOnmyojion her phone. She lifted her headand lookedat me in surprise. Did you have a nightmare?


    I turnedinthe direction where I had seen Daji. Nothing was there. It was just a dream.


    I suddenly had a strange thought that Daji was just an innocent woman who happened to beveryattractive. People med her for the destruction of the Shang Dynasty. When she fled to Japan and became an imperial consort, people deemed her a monster.


    Since ancient times, historyhasbeen writtenbymasculine figures. Women had no social positions. They hadalways been toys to men.


    Perhaps the Dajiwe knew wasnt to be med. She just wanted to find a man who loved her with all his heart.


    Unfortunately,she was too beautiful, and beautiful women were always ill-fated.

 Chapter 522: The Tea Maniac Ghost

    Chapter 522: The Tea Maniac Ghost


    Two happy eventstook ceduring this time. First, Ru Xuegavebirth to a baby girl. In memory ofLi Mazite wife, Chu Chu, he named the little girl, Nianchu remembering Chu.I then became Nianchus uncle. Second, after a few months of fleeing,Senior Shuhad finally escaped from his enemy. He swaggeredand cameto my shop. He stayed half a month here before leaving.


    AfterSenior Shuleft, my life became boring. Yin Xinyue wassobusy with her work that she couldnt make enough time to stay with me. Li Mazi had transformed into an old eunuch that served Ru Xue twenty-four hours a day.


    I had stayed idleand bored in my shop for three days, and I couldnt stand it anymore. I calledSenior Shu. Hey,whatare you doing?


    Whydidyou call me? Im busy making money. Idont have the time toy with you,Senior Shuansweredcrudely. Ive epted many cases whileI was on the run. I have to solve these problems, you know.


    It seemedSenior Shuwas busy. Senior, if you have too much on your te, you can share one or two cases with me. Im so bored right nowthatImight as wellbe your footman.


    Really?


    Senior Shuwas so happy when he heard that.It sounded asthough he was worried that I would change my mind in the next second, so he hurried to say,Theres a tea merchant named Lu Ming in Fujian. He called me a few days ago! I will give you his contact. Thank you, thank you so much, grandson!


    After saying that, he shamelessly hung up the call.In thenext second,I received histext message.


    When Isaw thatthe address was in Quanzhou, Fujian, IthoughtI was fooled. That old man must have given me the farthest case he had received.But sinceI was boredto death,I shouldnt be picky. I called Lu Mingand askedif he needed help.


    At first, Lu Ming sounded cold. He only changed after I told himwho I was. Oh yes, oh yes sir, I need help!When can youe here? Ill personallye to fetch you.


    His attitude toward me was even better than that of asonwithhisfather. I knew this merchantwas inbig trouble! I told him to wait one day. After finishing the call, I directly bookedaflight ticket to Quanzhou.


    I arrived at Quanzhouairport the next morning. This was the first time Ihadeto Quanzhou. I didnt call Lu Mingimmediatelybut toured around.


    Perhaps it wasdueto my profession, butI adored and cherished Chinese culture. Quanzhouhad a richhistory. I went to visitGuan YuTemple, Haiyin Temple, and other ancient structures.As I stoodin betweenthesearchaic structures, I felt the rich history of the city of Quanzhou. Unfortunately, I stillhad a jobto do.Aroundevening, I reluctantly called Lu Ming.


    The guywas so excited when helearnedI had arrived in Quanzhou.He sooncame to pick me up.


    As I waitedfor him, I pictured him in my head. I thought hewould beabig-bellied rich businessman. Butwhen he arrived,Idiscovered that Iwas wrong.


    He looked simr to the moviestarChen Daoming. He had a nice body and wasin hite thirtiesor earlyforties. His eyes lookedsharp, andhis shiny leather shoes fit his tailor-made suit very well. However, hehaddark circles under his eyes. I guessed he was troubled by something.


    While we were on the way to his house, I asked him for more details.


    Youdont knowwhat has happened? He sounded surprised.


    I was speechlessand cursed Senior Shuunder my breath.Isaid embarrassedly, WhenSenior Shutold me about you, he didnt give me many details.


    Emh, understood. Lu Ming frowned.


    Hewasdoubting my skills, but he stillpolitelygave me a nod. I felt much better with his mannerisms.


    Lu Mings familyhad workedin thetea industry for generations. However,theydidnt havemuch luck untilLu Mings generation. With his extraordinaryInte marketing skills, he madehis familystea brandfamous nationwide. He even brought his business across the border to Japan andother Southeast Asian countries. Hebecameatea tycoon.


    With these achievementsand his young age,Lu Ming had be the new star in the industry. He sometimes thought that his life was already perfect. Unexpectedly, after the Lunar New Year, some strange incidents started to happen in his house.


    At first, the best quality tea he had put inhisdrawerwentmissing. He thoughtone of theguestsmighthavetaken part of itto try it, so he didnt mind it. Butfrom that day onward, almost every few days, part of his best tea would disappear. He wanted tocatchthe thief, so he quietly installed cameras in his house.


    When he came to this part of the story, Lu Ming gulped. Hisfaceturnedtense and his eyesbecamefearful. He looked as though the event he was about to tell me was terrifying. It seemed he didnt want to disclose it.


    Dont worry. Im here to help you solve the problem!


    He was really scared, soI had toease his worries. Lu Mings face turned better. The day after I installedthe cameras, three bags of my tea, which wereworth hundreds of thousands of renminbi, weregone. I couldnt wait anymoreand checkedthe video. Ilooked atthe drawer where I had kept the tea.Itopened by itself. Then, the bags of teaflewup. It looked likeaninvisible mantookthe tea away...


    I closed my eyes to picture the scene in my head. My scalpwent numbafterward. I opened my eyesand asked,Before youwenttoSenior Shu,didyouaskanyother masters?


    I was sure something foulwastroubling him, butFujian had many famous Daoistpriestsand monks.Lu Ming belonged to the high ss in this society. It shouldnt be difficult for him to invite a master to help.Why did heinviteSenior Shuwho lived so far away?


    Lu Mings face grimaced when I asked that. After I saw that,Iknewtherewassomething foul in my house. I askedgeomancerswith high reputation in Fujian toe to my house to check. However, they all rejected me after a few minutesof stepping intomy house. They said they didnt dare toeptmy case.Amaster adhered a few yellow talismans in my house. He didnt charge me and told me that if the talismans didnt work, I should invite someone stronger.


    Afterthatmaster left, Lu Ming became more anxious. He was really worried that the talismans wouldnt work. Onthedaywhenthe teawas supposed todisappear, he didnt dare to stay home. When he came back the next morning, he found that all the yellow talismans had burned into ashes. His heart chilled at that moment. He hurriedly pulled the drawer to check, and the tea was gone.


    Lu Ming left the house immediately,foundthatmaster,and imploredhimfor hishelp. However, the masterno longerwanted to put his hand in this.


    Eventually, Lu Ming used his connectionsand askedaround.Thats how he learned about Senior Shu. He offered arge sum of money toSenior Shu and beggedhim to help. Unfortunately,Senior Shuwas on his run at that timeand had forgotten aboutLu Mings case.


    I thought something terrifyingmust havehappened afterward. If itwasjust tea thievery, Lu Ming wouldnt have been so frightened.


    Nobody agreed to help me, butI didntlose hope. I thought it wasnta big dealthatmy tea was stolen like that. However, the day after the yellow talismans were burned, for seven nights in a row,Ive dreamtof a white-bearded old man! He wore ck shrouds andlooked furious. He usedhis staff to knock my head until I woke up.Ithoughtthose talismans provoked a wandering soul, so I burned a lot of paper money for him. I even moved out of my house. However, no matter where I slept, Istill dreamtof that old man. He scared the wits out of me then used his staff to knock me until Iwokeup.Now,I have started to sleep during the day and stay up at night. It has gradually turned better for me


    After telling me his story, Lu Ming still looked scared. I now knew why hehaddark circles under his eyes. He hadnt slept at night for a few months. Instead, he tooknaps during the day. Even if hewasan immortal, he wouldnt be able to endure this!


    From what Lu Ming had told me, I guessed that the old man wasnt someoo evil. Otherwise, he wouldhavedreamt of that old man during the day as well. Moreover, the old man didnt seem to want to hurt Lu Ming. He used his staff to knock Liu Mings head to give him a lesson.


    I had a feeling that Lu Ming had done something wrong. I decided to ask him directly. Mr. Lu, have you offended someone? Or, did you do somethingimmoral?


    I Lu Ming kept silent for quite a long time. In the end, he shook his head. Ive always been busy with my tea business. I didnt have time to do anythingimmoral. Although I have manypetitors,it''snormal when you do business. Idontthink I have done somethingbad enoughthatcaused someo send an old ghost to deal with me.


    Lu Ming sounded reasonable. However, I still stuck to the idea that the old ghost wouldnthavehit him in the head without reason. Mr. Lu, could you think about it carefully? The old man hase to your dream many times. Has he eversaid anything?


    Oh, he did talk. He yelled at my face the entire time, but I couldnt understand what he was saying! Lu Ming almost cried.Idontknow what to do after all ofthis...


    After hearing him, I felt much more determined. If the ghost of the old man talked to him, it proved that wehada chance to talk him out of this.Perhaps the ghost didnt have enough Yin energy, which made his talking inaudible to Lu Ming. I needed togothere and arrange something to enable his voice. When Lu Ming could finally understand him, we could solve this problem.


    Lu Mingsoonstopped his car in front of a vi. When hewentto open the gate and the double-door to the house, I saw spider websall overthe ce. Lu Ming felt a little embarrassed. Sincethere wereparanormal activities in this house, no one dares to live here anymore.


    I just gave him a faint smile to encourage him. Then, Ifollowed him into the vi. I pulled myself together and carefully assessed the interior of the vi. The arrangement of the roomswasnt bad.


    When you built this vi, did you consultageomancer?


    Yeah, I did.Thatswhy Im puzzled. My house has greatgeomancy, as youcan see. How could it attractsomeunknown ghost? Lu Ming looked begrudged.


    I also had a big question mark in my head. There was a small stream in front of his vi and lushandgreen hills behind his house. Together, they formed a greatformationthat could gather fortune. The interior of his house, including the arrangement of the tables, chairs, beds, and other furniture followed themonrulesofgeomancy. There was no reasonforthe vitoattract some ghosts.That ghostcould only be a spirit dwellinginanotherworldly item in Lu Mings vi.


    However, I had checked all the corners ofthevi anddidnt find awisp of Yin energy! Everything looked normal. It seemed the possibility of having an otherworldly item wreaking havoc was small.


    Suddenly, Lu Ming screamed. I followedhisline of sight. He was shakily sitting in front of a cab. One ofthedrawers was pulled open. The bags of tea inside were torn, and the tea leavesscatteredaround messily.


    Somethings missing again? I asked.


    From his appearance, I knew the ghost had taken his tea again.


    Lu Ming dumbly nodded. Then, he put on a wry smile. Ive been out of this vi for three months. Twelve teabags were taken.It seems he didnt even miss a day! I admire this ghost now. Where elsecouldwe find a teamaniac ghost likethis one?


    I hadepteddozens of otherworldly item cases, bigandsmall. Thespirits I knew haddone a lotofhorrible things. However, I had never encounteredaspirit that loved to steal tea leaves. This ghost was odd.


    After Lu Ming pulled himself together, I asked,Have you ever bought or brought any antiques to your house?


    Heimmediately shookhis head. I dont have a hobby of collecting antiques.


    It was really weird then! For the time being, I didnt haveaclue. However, luckilyforme, the old manvisitedLu Mings dreams every night. I wasnt afraidof losing sight of him!

 Chapter 523: The Mysterious Purple Clay Teapot

    Chapter 523: The Mysterious Purple y Teapot


    IaskedLu Ming to clean the room. Then, Iscatteredpaper ashes around his bed,weavedsomewillow twigs around a mirror, andced the whole thingon the pillow.


    The paper ashes and the willow twigs were pure Yin items. They hada special function, which was toforce the ghost to showitself.To ensure Lu Mings safety, I wrote an Eight Diagrams formation on the bed with a few drops of my blood.After finishingthe preparatorywork, I hidinthe toilet. The Sirius Whip was ready in my hand. Frommy position, I could observe the situation. As soon as the ghost appeared, I would activate the Eight Diagrams formation. With the help oftheBigDipper Sirius Spell, Ishould be able tocapture the ghost.


    Lu Ming was a millionaire, so he hadnt ever donecleaning by himself. Aftercleaning the whole room, he was so exhaustedthat hefesleep as soon as hidon the bed. Lu Mings heavy snoring resounded, stopping shortly after.The room was now dead silent, which made merestless.


    However, Idid not expect Lu Ming to sleep the entire night. I didnt find anything abnormal, either.


    When I woke up Lu Ming after dawn, he wasnt pleased. What are you doing?


    It turned out I had been watching himsleeplike an idiot for the whole night while hewas havinga really good sleep. Iwas annoyed. Did you sleep wellst night?


    Oh yeah, I feel so good now. Its been a long time since Ivehad such a good sleep


    Lu Ming stretched hiszy backas he talked. Then, heunderstood the situation. He lookedthrilled. Oh God, that old man didnt appear yesterday, did he?


    I nodded.Everything looked normal yesterday.


    I now thought that he had just blown thingsup. Perhaps the ghost hesawwas just a wandering ghost that had randomly entered his house. That ghost could havefound some good tea so he stole the tea to enjoy it. Of course,another possibility was thatthe ghost didnt see Lu Ming sleep at night anymore and was toozy to pester the poor man again. I told Lu Ming about my ideas.Heshook his headand insistedthat the ghostwas out to gethim.


    Thingsdidnt feel quite right. Since he wasso persistent, Iarranged the same setup for the next few daysand waitedfor the ghost. It turned out that Lu Ming hadagood sleep for several days in a row while I had dark circles under my eyes.


    I thought about it. Perhaps the old man had sensed the power of my Eight Diagrams formationand didnt dare to show up. With that thought, I erased the formation. However, the old man still didnte.


    Lu Ming wasnt as worried as he used to be. He even smiled. I thought this situationwasalreadywrapped up.Ididntn to stayup tonight,but I wascarefulenough to sprinkle the ashes and weave the willow twigs.


    But since Lu Ming was snoringsoloudly, I couldnt sleep.At around midnight,Lu Mingssnoring gradually subsided. I felt much betterand driftedinto sleep.


    Then, I thought Iheard some footsteps.However,my sleepyselfdidnt want to think much as I thought Lu Ming was just going to the toilet. Butthe noise grew louder and louder. In the end, it seemed to stop by my side.


    Subconsciously, I felt something was wrong,but I couldnt open my eyes. I clenched my fistsand triedto sense it. A momentter, the footsteps arose again. Right after that, I heard a clear sliding sound.


    Someones pulling the drawer!


    I pulled myself togetheratthat instantandturned tolook atthe cab. At the same time, I held the mirror with the willow twigsandfaced the cab. An old man wearing ck shrouds appeared in the mirror.


    Who are you? I asked coldly.The Yin energy from him was feeble. I wasnt afraid of him.


    He didnt mind me at all. He didnt evennce atme. He took a bag of tea then slowly left the room.


    I had stayed awake for several days in a row just to wait for him. How could I let him go now? Immediately, I jumped out of the bedand stormedtoward him. The old man elerated all of a sudden. I losttrack of himat the vi entrance, soI had to return to the room.


    The light inside the room was turned on. Lu Ming was awakeand was sittingon the bed. In a shakyvoice, he said,He came, didnt he?


    Yeah I nodded.Sincethe old man ghost had appeared, my previousguesswas wrong.


    From his speed, I knew he was much stronger than I had thought. Let alone Lu Ming,atthis moment, Iwas also scared.


    Lu Mingalmostwent crazy. He grabbed my arm. What should I do now?


    I thought that if the old mansawLu Ming sleeping at night again, he wouldenter hisdream. Thus, I asked him togoback to sleep.


    At first, he didntwant to, soI had to coax him and talk him into it.


    After Lu Ming slept, I hid in the toilet to watch. The old man didnt show up. For thenext few nights, I asked Lu Ming to sleep in different rooms and at differenttimes. However,the old man didnt reappear. It seemed hewasgone for good.


    Still,the tea bags in the drawerkept disappearing. I became suspicious. If that ghost came for tea, whydidhe pester Lu Ming in his dreams?


    Didthe other masters yellow talismans provoke him?My Eight Diagrams formation was much more powerful than those talismans. Sowhy didnt the old man look angry?


    Almost half a month passed and I had only seen the ghost once. I was exhausted. There was no need to say how aggrieved I was.Sincethe oldghost didnte, Lu Mings daily activities resumed,which includedhis tea business. However, he needed me to stay with him when he slept at night. I had somehow be his bedmate.


    It was extremely boringand made me feel somewhat ufortable.


    I wanted to try my luck the next time the ghost came to steal tea. If I couldnt catch him, I would let thiscasego. No matter what, the ghost didnt hurt anybody.


    Unexpectedly, the night before the ghost came, something really bad happened to Lu Ming!


    That day, he went to Xiamen to discuss a business deal with a Japanese partner. He was so excited when he told me about it.If this dealwassessful, his career would be one step higher!


    I could tellthiswas really important to him. However, I couldnt be of helpwhen it came tohis business, soI waited in the next roomand yedgames on my phone. I was so into my gamewhen Isuddenly hearda loud bang in the next room followed by Lu Mings thundering voice.


    I recognized something was wrong. I put my phone into my pocket and rushed to the meeting room next door. Lu Ming was picking up the chairsand throwingthem at a man. The security guards were trying tostophim. However, they couldnt approach him ashekept kicking them away.


    The man Lu Ming was hitting hadamustache.Hewas Lu Mings Japanese partner.At thismoment,the manwas holding his bleeding nose. I suddenly had a strange sensationandremembered what Lu Ming had told me. This situation wasnt right at all


    He was a member of high society. He was well-mannered andwouldnt hit people.Yet, he was now using a chair with a backrest to hit a man.


    Moreover, his victim was his important business partner. With that thought, IgrabbedLu Mingand triedto calm him down.


    Lu Ming hysterically shouted at me.Get lost!


    Then, he kicked me. I didnt expect that he would hit me too. I was caught off guardannded on my butt.


    Iwasalmostout ofbreath after his kick. I couldnt believe that anky man like Lu Ming could be so strong. I got up and shouted at the security guards. Dont standthere! Come help me! If he continuesto act thisway, that man will bekilled!


    The security guards reacted.Given theurgent situation, theystoppedcaring aboutLu Mings status. They swarmed and pinned himtothe ground.


    Lu Ming struggled as if hewasHercules.His red eyes continuously switched between the Japanese man and me.When he saw me, he clenched andgroundhis teeth.


    I took a deep breathwhen I sawhis strange gaze. I looked around the meeting room and found two ball pens. Immediately, I jumped toward himand usedthe pens to grab his middle finger. Lu Ming shrieked, and his body shook hard. Then,his eyes rolled to the back of his head. He fainted shortly thereafter.


    Everybody else was frightenedand moved away fromhim immediately.Themeeting was dismissed. Soon, there were only two of us in the room. I was gasping for my breath and didnt return to my sensesuntil the waiter of the hotel came and asked if I needed help. I pulled myself togetherandreached my back,findingthat my shirt was damp with sweat.


    During the recent emergency, I hadnt had the time to think. Still,my intuition told me that Lu Mingwaspossessedby something foul. Thatwaswhy I had decided to use the pens to grab his middle finger. After the spirit was expelled, I remembered we were in broad daylight!


    It was broad daylight andaspiritwas able toinaudibly possess, then control Lu Ming in thisroom full of people! Thisspirit wasreallystrong!


    However, I wasnt sure if that spirit wasour oldghost. If not,more than one spirit hadid its eyes on Lu Ming, which was bad.


    I asked the staff to help mecarryLu Ming to a room in the hotel to rest. I sat on another bedand recalled the timethe ghost came to steal the tea. I reckoned that hewas justfast. Hewasnt strong enough to possess a living man during the day like this.


    While I was pondering, someone knocked on the door. When I opened the door, Isawit was the waiter that had just helped me.


    Is thereaproblem? I was a little anxious. At the same time, I checked theareabehind him. Lu Ming had wounded a Japanese man. I was afraid that the waiterhae to our door with the police.


    However, the waiterwasalone. He gave me a gentle smile and gave me an exquisite purple y teapot.


    Sir, this is Lu Mings favorite personal teapot.Thesttime he came here for a meeting, he forgot to collect it. We have kept it here for him. Today, we would like to return the item to the owner.


    Oh, thank you.


    I smiledand receivedthe teapot. I even nned to learn fromaTV sceneandgive some tips tothewaiter. However, the moment Itook a good look atthe teapot, my eyes opened wide!


    There was a faintyer of purple air that gently floated around the purple y teapot. No matter how hard Ishookthe teapot, the purple air didnt disperse. It was as if itwasstuck on the teapots surface.


    I looked at the teapotand feltamazed. It was enough to conclude that this teapot was an otherworldly item. Moreover, it could be rted to that ghost.


    More importantly, the waiter had told me that this teapot was Lu Mingsfavorite teapotand that he had lost it here. It didnt sound logical to me.


    To a millionaire like him, something that could catch his eye must bevery precious. Andalthougha long time hadpassed, hedidnte to retrieve the item from the hotel. Therewassomethingstrange about this!


    With that thought, I shoved a few hundredrenminbiatthe waiter. Hey man, could you tell me what happened thest time Mr. Lu came here to hold a business meeting?


    The waiter smiled brightly when hereceivedthe money. Butafter hesitatingfor a while, he gave me back the money. Its a secret in the hotel. If someone knows Ive disclosed this, I will be fired.


    From his tone, I knew thatheknewsomething! I grabbed his handand gavehim more money. I coaxedhim for a while. The waiter hesitantly put the money into his pocketand askedme to swear that I wouldnttell the story to anyone else.


    After seeing my confirming nod, he carefully whispered to my ear. Last time they had a meeting here, Mr. Lu actedas if he was dyingof thirst. He kept drinking tea. His voice also changed! All of sudden, he had so many wrinkles on his face. Not even half an hourter, he looked thirty or forty years older.


    Everybody was scared, and thebusiness meeting was dismissed.After everybody left, Mr. Lus face resumed to normal. He smiledand left.


    As soon as the waiter told me that, more staff appeared in the corridor. The waiter blinked at me and leftquickly.


    ording to him, the current meeting was the second one that wasruinedbecause of the ghost.Without a doubt, it was the work of that old man.


    I carefully studied the purple y teapot. These types of teapots were first produced in the Ming Dynasty. The ones produced in Jiangsuwerethe bestsince the area has a special purple y. It wasthe best material to create beautiful teapots. Those purple y teapots couldboost the quality of the tea. Atance, I could tell that it was an antique as contemporary itemsdidnthave suchquality.


    I lifted the lid of the teapot. A waft of tea aroma arose,which mixedwith the cold air outside.


    At the first wisp, I thought it smelled like jasmine honey teayou could find inany supermarket. However, after a while, the tea aroma became more refreshing, just as if ithadjustbeenbrewingfor a while.


    It seemed the old ghost had stolen tea leaves to make good tea. He must have loved tea a lot when he was alive. I suddenly recalled Ji Xians tobo pipe I had collected a long time ago. I became curious about this tea-loving ghost.


    Itook outmy magnifying ss and observed the teapot. Soon, I found the problem!

 Chapter 524: The Pros and Cons of Otherworldly Items

    Chapter 524: The Pros and Cons of Otherworldly Items


    There was nowater inside the teapot. Yet,the inner wall and the bottom of the teapot had a thickyer of patina.


    How could a y item have rust and patina? Isnt this a purple y teapot?


    With this thought, I brought the teapot to my earandgentlyknocked on it. I heard the clear sound created by a bronze item rather than the dull sound of a y item.


    Thisteapot wasnt made of purple y. It was a bronze teapot that had a coating of purple y. This madethingsmoreplicated.


    y teapots first appeared in the Ming Dynasty, soI needed to know if this teapotwasdated before or after the Ming Dynasty. It was the key tofindthe original owner of the teapot.


    Lu Ming was a tea tycoon, so he must have studiedteapots. I was certain that he knew this teapot was an antique. However, a few days ago, when I asked him if he had kept an antique in his house, he denied it.


    IsLu Ming part of the problem?


    With that thought, I turned to see Lu Ming, who was lying on the floor. I was amazedto findthat all his Yang mes were burning.


    In broad daylight, he was possessed byaspirit, and he didnt bear any losses. This overturned my knowledge!


    My intuition told me that he had deceived me. In other words, he knew something about this teapot, but he didnt want to tell me.


    When Lu Ming woke up, he looked surprisedafter seeingthe purple y teapot on the table. Mr. Zhang, what happened?


    I didnt answer his question but asked with an indifferent face, Do you remember what you did over there?


    I only remember that I went to the meeting room, whereI suddenly had a headache. I dont remember anything else. Lu Ming gave a vague answer.


    Hmm, if so,I cant solve this problem. I think youd better invite another master. Isaid coldly and turnedto leave.


    Lu Ming didnt dare to let me go. He hurried after me. Master, please help me!I will pay you whatever you want! We can always negotiate! Then, he arranged his thoughts and toldme the story.


    The ghost of the old man controlled me. Although I was sane at that time, I couldnt control my body. I just wanted to dodge the responsibilityasI almost killedmyJapanese business partner. I dont want to bear criminal responsibility!


    How do youexin thisy teapot? And, you experienced the same phenomenoninaprevious meeting. Whydidn''t youtell me? I fumed.


    Id been watching him for half a month like a fool. And now, it turned out he didnt tell me the truth.


    You Youknow aboutit... Lu Ming was bewildered. As it hade to this, he didnt want to hide it anymoreand toldme the whole story.


    Not only did he knowthat this y teapot was an otherworldly item, but he also used the power of the teapot to beatea tycoon in a short period.


    However, he didnt expect that when he was nning to bring his tea brandoverseas, the purple y teapot didnt help him anymore. It had even given him warnings.


    Lu Ming didnt want to give up this good chance, and he didnt want to let anybodyknowthat he hadreliedon an otherworldly item to build up his career. Thats why heasked for myhelpbut didnt want to tell methe fullstory.


    After listening to him, I wasnt angry. Id seen the same storymany times before. People only knew how to take advantageofotherworldly items, forgetting how dangerous they could be.Lu Ming waslucky that he didnt get hurt.


    Where did you get the teapot? Do you know its origin? I sighed.


    The old ghost had shown his power, and I wasnt sure if I could behis equal opponent in a directfight. Moreover, he wasnt an evil spirit. I should just follow the flow and ask Lu Ming to return the teapot.


    I got my teapotinXishuangbanna. The seller told me that if Ikeptthis teapot with me, it would help my career. I bought it,and it worked. Lu Ming then paused.Feeling embarrassed, he admitted that it was all he knew.


    I admire your boldness! Otherworldly items werent something one should collect casually. There were many factors they needed to consider, including thedangerlevel of the item, its origin, and the sellers reliability. If onewascareless,theywould provoke a lot of trouble. They couldevendie.


    Lu Ming hadbelieved theseller andboughttheteapot without much thought. He was lucky that hisluckwas good. Otherwise, he wouldnt even have had the chance to wait for me to save hisbutt.


    However, as things hade to this,therewas no usetalkingabout such details. I considered things and decided totakethis teapot and Lu Ming to Xishuangbanna.


    Do you still remember where you got this teapot?


    UmhYeah, I do. Lu Ming sounded hesitant. I knew he didnt want to let this teapot go. Iignoredhim since I needed to prepare for the trip.


    At around twilight, Idraggedhim onto the train to Xishuangbanna.


    Afterwe goton the train, he kept scratching his head as if hewasa monkey. I patted him tofort him. Dont worry. Your business is great already. You dont need to depend on an otherworldly item.


    Yeah. Lu Ming gave me an absent-minded answer. However, hisconfidencewaslow. I shook my head reluctantly.


    The way otherworldly items worked was simr to someone giving you warm embers on a snowy day. Insimplewords, if one used an otherworldly item to ovee a challenge, it wouldnt create much damage to the user.


    However, people were always greedy. After oneuse, many of them would be dependenton theotherworldly item. In the end, they would lose themselvesand be itspuppet. For example, Lu Mingsachievements of today were the result of his efforts. It was him who subconsciously thought that it was the merit of the otherworldly item.


    Thatwaswhy I knew it was useless to talk to him. Ihad todeal withthe otherworldly item and make him more self-confident.


    After he finallycalmed down, I asked him if he remembered the address where he had bought the teapot. It would be a big problem if he didnt remember the address since Xishuangbannawasavast ce.


    Menghai TownshipinMenghai County.


    The areas around Xishuangbannahad a lot ofnatural tea fields. Lu Ming had been working in this business long enough to know the ce well. He didnt even need to think to tell me the address.


    After two transfers, wereachedMenghai Township. It was already dawn. Inced atthe surrounding green mountains andclearwaters.


    I saw watermills, water buffalos, fruit forests, and tea gardens. They all had a primitive look.The fortified viges here were the most attractivepartof the local culture.


    Igotan idea. Afterworking a few more years, I would bring Yin Xinyue here. We would buy a small house and live ourlives in seclusion,away from the modern world.


    Compared to my leisure mood, Lu Ming looked muchtenser. Ever since weentered MenghaiTownship, his face contorted. He tightly graspedthe small bag containing the purple y teapot.


    I was afraid that hedidntwant to return the otherworldly item. I had to put away my wanderingthoughts and askedhim to take me to the sellers house.


    We can only visit there at night time. They wont open their gate to outsiders, said Lu Ming.


    Whydidn''t youtell me earlier? I was somewhat angry.


    He gave me a forced smile. I just remembered that.However,Ihavehis number.


    Hewent onhis phone and made a call.The phonerangfor a long moment, but no one picked up the call. Lu Ming was helpless. Wellhave to wait until night then.


    All right. We can take a napin the meantime.


    I was really tired after a night on the train. Aftermyinitialexcitement towardsthe surroundingsfaded, I couldnt fight my sleepiness anymore. I found a hostel to rest.


    Lu Mingstayed in theroom next tomine. I was afraid that he would change his mind, so I decided to keep the teapot in my room. Ipaid him no more heed and crawled intobed.


    I sleptfrommorningtoevening. Ihad anice sleep. If Lu Ming didnt wake me up, I would have probably slept until thenext morning.


    After hewokeme up, he couldnt wait anymoreand tookme to the fortified vige where the seller lived. He looked hurried, just as if he wanted to get rid of the teapot as soon as possible.


    Thiswassurprisingto me. I looked at him andsawhewas inmuch better shape. I guessed he had made up his mind. I didntoverthink and pickedup the teapot andleftthe hostel with him.


    Menghai Townshipwasntbig. Itwasdivided into several smaller viges,so itwas easy to find the sellers house. Not even after twenty minutes, we reached a ce that had rocks piled upinto a fenceand gate. There was a small stream of around twometers in front of thisvige.


    From a far distance, I saw that the ce was lit with manynterns. People were packing the ceand pushing one another.They cheered happily.


    I was curious to see what they were doing, but I was afraid that I wouldenrage them. Lu Ming, do you know what they are doing?


    Ah, the Dai people like to sing and dance. Do you want totake a look? Lu Ming said indifferently.Thiskind of event wasnt new to him, but it was a first for me.


    You said earlier wecouldn''tget in there, right? Canwe even visit the ce? I asked.


    Haha, you cant enter their vige in the morning, but its all right at night. If you are lucky, thefriendliergirlsmightask you to dance with them.


    Then we shouldgoin for a look!


    Ithought it wasinterestingand walkedtoward the vige. However, Inoticedthat Lu Mingwas no longer followingme. Isaid, Hey man, why are you standing there? Come with me.


    After half a month of staying with him, I had figured out that Lu Ming wasnt as arrogantasotherrich people. Thatwaswhy Iwasmore casualwithhim.


    However, no one answered. Instinctively, I turned around to find him, but there was no one behind me.


    The distance from the vige gate to the road was around three or four hundred meters.Only a short time had passed,so Lu Ming couldnt havedisappeared so quickly. I wasstunned and thoughtabout the only exnation for this. That Lu Ming wasnot the real one!

 Chapter 525: The Haunted Fortified Village

    Chapter 525: The Haunted Fortified Vige


    I couldnt helpbut takein a deep breath. I told myself not to panic. I gritted my teethand rantoward the vige entrance.


    But before I could reach the gate, the rocksthat formedthe gate turned into a row of coffins alongside the path. The small stream was gone, and the path we had just walked on became a dark gorge.


    Frommy position, I saw a ckmistmovingandfilling that gorge. Themistmoved with the wind, turninginto cold airthat ppedmy face.


    Theroad I had used toe here was gone, soIcould only head tothe vige. Butwhen I turned my head around, I was petrified by what I saw.


    The Dai people that had just danced and sung werenowhere to be seen. It seemed theywerenever there. In front of me sat piles of white skeletons and weathered musical instruments.


    What scared thewitsout of me was that those musical instruments still madenoise! When the wind blew through them, the entire world was filled with a low and mourning sound. It was extremely simr to funeral music yed in rural areas.


    I knew Ihad torun and leave this ce as soon as possible. I pulled myself together and gathered my courage. I didnt look at the skeletons andrandeep into the vige.


    However, I had to stop not long after I had started running. In front of me wasanothergorge. I was trapped. I stoodand took a deep breathto calm down.


    After thinkingabout it, the fake Lu Ming could have killed me while I was sleeping. He didnt do that. Instead, hetricked meintogoingto this ce.


    I could tell he didnt want to take my life.It was possible he just wantedto trap me here. It was pretty simr to thatold ghosts style. I was more worried about the real Lu Ming.


    As time went by, I became more anxious. Usually, the old ghost wouldnt trouble Lu Ming for a long time. However,thingslooked different this time.Washe mad at usbecauseheknewwe wereabout to return the teapot?


    Otherworldly items wereborn from thefixation ofdead people. Thatwaswhy they could maketheir mastersomeone willing to fulfill their wishes. Butif the master wanted to get rid of the otherworldly item, theywould rebel.


    Actually,Lu Minghad yetto give up ontheteapot.Butthe old man ghost seemed to haverecognizedour intention.


    I became restless. In the end, I decided to make a bet. If that old man didnt want to kill me, the dark gorge in front of me should be an illusion!


    I carefully moved back to the rock gate of thevige. I felt my legs turning jelly-like when I looked at the bottomless gorge. However,after thinkingabout Lu Ming, I knewI couldnt linger here. I clenched my jawand jumped.


    At thismoment, something grabbed my left leg. I struggled but couldnt get rid of it. Before Icould turnmy head to see, I suddenly recognizedsomething. It seemed my leg was held by a cane.


    Whenever the old ghost appeared in Lu Mings dream, he would use a cane to hit the poor mans head!


    I didnt want tomeetthe old man here.However,sincehewas already here, I had tofacehim.When I left the hostel, I didnt bring anything I could use to defend myself, so it would be a battle to the death.


    At the moment I turned around, I saw an old man wearing a ck shroud. He was standing not even two meters away from me. He was using the long cane to hook my leg. It was the first time Iwas inclose contactwithhim. He didnt look as scary as I had thought. Except for the shroud, he didnt look different from a living old man.


    When I turned and looked at him, the old mans ruddy face turned angry and somewhat menacing. His lips kept moving, but I couldnt hear what he was saying.If he appeared here, it meant Lu Mingwasrtively safe. I didnt need to take any risks.


    I smiled at the old man. Before he could react, I screamed,usingall of my strength to sprint into the vige.


    WhenI hadused the pens to grab Lu Mings finger to force the old man outst time,I angered him.My only choice was tofight him!


    If I could linger until dawn, then perhaps I would have a chance to survive.However, I had underestimated the old mans speed. I had run for a few stepswhen I suddenlytripped. I turned aroundandsaw that theold man was using his long cane to tackle me. I shot him a furious look. I gotup andranagain, but the old mankept trying to stopme.


    After falling a few times,my strength was drained. And,I still hadnt got rid of the old ghost. I knewIcouldnt defeat him with my speed. I simply halted and bit the tip of mytongue. Then, I spitthe bloodathim!


    Even if I die, I wont let you feelcontent!


    At thismoment, I heard a loud thud,thenLu Mings voicecalling me. My body suddenly felt as light as cotton. Instinctively, I feltlikeclosingmy eyes.


    I didnt forget tohave ast lookat theold man. He was saying something to me. Unfortunately, I couldntunderstandit. I thought Iwas going to die.


    Strangely, in the next second, I got upand foundmyself in bed.


    Before I couldpiecethings together, someone knocked on my door. Subconsciously, I went to open the door. Lu Ming was standing outside.


    Hey, are you ready? We should go to the fortified vige.


    UmhI looked at him in bewilderment. Then, I understood that I had a nightmare. I sighed in relief.


    Seeingthat I wasworried, Lu Ming asked, Did something happen?


    No, what time is it? I shook my head.


    Around 7:00 PM.You sure cansleepa lot.Lu Ming teased me. Its alreadyte. We have to go there.


    His voice and appearance werethe same as the Lu Mingin the dream. I became vignt. I collected all of my stuffand brought italong withme.


    When we left the hostel, thesky wasdark. We went to eat thelocaldishesofXishuangbanna, which were pineapple rice and bamboo tube rice. The further we walked, the more amazed Ibecame. This path was the sameasthe one I hadseen inthe dream.


    When we arrived at the rock gate of the vige, I was puzzledto seethe small stream and the group of people singing and dancing inside the fence.


    In my nightmare, this rock gate had turned into coffins. I seized the chance when Lu Mingwasnt lookingto smear oxtearson my eyes.I blinked a few times thenopened my eyes wide to see. There was no rock gate over there. It was a gate made of three red coffinsstackedon each other!


    Lu Ming patted my shoulder and smiled. This is the dance of the Dai people. If you are interested, you can enter the vige and watch the performance. They will treat youlikea friend.


    I looked at his smiling faceand felt my heart chilling. He wanted to harm me.However,I didnt haveagrudge against him, so why did he want to kill me?


    I didntknowthe reason, but my intuition told me to bewary of him. Moreover, I had made up my mind. At dawn, I would go home. I wouldnt y with him anymore.After all,protectingmy lifewas the top priority. When I lifted my head again, I saw Lu Ming entering the rock gate.


    He walkedmore than ten meters, and he stoppedwhenhesawI didnt follow him. Hey,why arent you followingme?


    Before I couldanswerhim, the vige in front of us turned into a stilt house.


    At first nce, I knew the stilt house had been unupied for quite a long time.Spider webs covered the ceiling and bats dungcoveredthe ground. There were many decayed bamboo poles.Thehouse looked as though it would copse in the next second.


    It seemed this stilt house was the real face of that haunted vige.I knew the old ghostwas responsible for all of this. I hurried to openmybagand took outthe purple y pot.


    I bit the tip of my finger and dripped some drops of my bloodintothe spout of the teapot.


    The spout was themouthof the teapot. I was certain that I could create some damage to the old manif I drippedblood full of Yang energy there.


    Icedthe teapot on the ground. Then, I opened the Yin and Yang Umbreand stabbedit into the ground toprovideshade to the teapot. Afterward, I readaspell toactivatethe umbre.


    The Umbre God Mantra was an exclusive spell of this item. As I was reading the spell, the Yin and Yang Umbre shed then radiated the dazzling ck and white lights of the Yin and Yang diagram. At the same time, it began to spin. The unceasing light beams shone on the teapot as the umbrespunfast.


    The Yin and Yang Umbre my grandpa had left me washismost powerful defensive magic weapon. Normally, I wouldnt use this spell. Butthis time, Ihad no choice as I wanted to deal withthe old manonce for all.


    Still, nothing happened after I read the spell.


    I looked at the teapot, andfear arose in my heart.


    What was the background ofthis teapot?

 Chapter 526: The Women that Collectively Committed Suicide

    Chapter 526: The Women that Collectively Committed Suicide


    I was discouraged and dispirited, but I wanted to save Lu Ming. I took a short moment to rest then took out the precious medium-level spirit talismans Chuyi had given meand adheredthem on the teapot. Then, I just sat and watched.


    If this couldnt do anything to the ghost, I would have to callSenior Shufor help


    Around one minuteter, the quiet house made a crackling noise,followed by loud sounds of people fighting. An ufortable feeling rose in my heart. Subconsciously, I watched the teapot.To my surprise, it was shaking.


    Itsworking!


    The teapot started to spin on the ground, movingfaster and faster. It bouncedup and down. Every time the teapot bounced up,thegold light radiatingfrom the medium-level spirit talismans subsided a bit. I was afraid that the talismans couldnt endure it until Lu Ming returned, so Iheldthe Sirius Whip in my handand focused onthe teapot.


    I would strike as soon as the power of the talismanswas gone.


    Fortunately, after bouncing for a while, the teapotndedandstopped moving. Rightafter that, the scenerevertedback to the vige. Lu Ming rushed out with a pale face. When he saw me, he screamed, Master Zhang, where the heck is this ce? Icouldn''tget out of it!


    He choked with sobs, but I didntfeel like making fun of him. We had both underestimated the ghost.


    Afterward, we didnt dare to lingerand returnedto the hostel. Lu Ming was scaredofthe ghost. He didnt want to stay in his room aloneand insistedthat we stay together.


    After hecalmed down, I asked,What did you see in there?


    Lu Mings face turned aswhiteas a sheet of paper. His handsshook as he held acup of water.


    Dont worry. Were all right now, arent we? I tried tofort him.


    He looked a little better after that.


    I saw ghosts, he said gingerly. Right whenIasked if you wantedtowatchthe Dai people dance and sing,everything in front of me changed. Those beautiful women became ghosts with malicious faces. Theyughed and encircled me. They opened their horrible mouths as though they wanted to eat me whole


    Lu Mingshivered. Master Zhang,why dont we goback now? Ill give you yourmission. I would rathersleepduring theday thanseethose female ghosts again!


    You said that a horde of female ghosts encircled you? It was beyond my imagination.


    I hadonlyseenthe ghost of the oldman fornow. Where did those female ghostse from? Moreover, howdidLu Ming escape from those ghosts?


    Yeah, theywerefemale ghosts! Lu Ming confirmed. Then, he described what he sawin detail.


    The female ghosts surrounded him and scared him, but they didnt do anything to him. It was as if they were afraid of something. Afterward, Lu Ming heard a voice in the back of his head. He followed that voice and left the vige.However, his escapedidnt gosmoothly. There were many timeswherethe voice in his head disappeared.When it happened, thehorde of female ghosts swarmed him again.


    He was lucky that the voice returned on time. In the end,the ghosts couldnt do anything to him.


    Lu Ming mocked himself. Ialmost wet myself. Master Zhang, did you know what happened back there?


    I contemted as I was somewhat stunned. I reviewed what Isawin the dreamand then, I had an idea that I could hardly believe.I took out the teapot to observe it. There were a fewthincracks at the spout.


    Will youe with me to that fortified vige one more time? I looked at Lu Ming.


    I was so excited when I thought I had gotten the key clue to thiscase.


    Lu Ming shivered.What? Are we going there now? I haventcalmed downmyself yet.


    Then you should rest in the hotel. You cant help mein this state, I said.


    Every art has itsrules, and onecouldnt ask an ordinary man to take risks with an otherworldly merchant. To assure himintostaying in the hotel, I drew a few talismans and stuck them at the entrance to his room. I even used cinnabar to draw the Heavenly Dipper formationaroundthe bed.


    After everything was done, I smiled at Lu Ming. The Heavenly Dipper formation is the strongest formation I know. Im sure it can protect you well! Even if something foul enters this room, itwont be able totouch you.


    How do you knowthatthe formationwill work? Lu Mingfelt better,but he couldnt ease his mind yet.


    I smiled. Because I used my spirit power to draw this formation. As long as Im alive, nothing can break that formation.


    Thank you! Lu Ming felt touched. Hiseyesturned red.


    No need to thank me. When this is over, just remember to give me abig reward.


    Haha, itsno big deal!AsIcrossedthe door, Lu Ming suddenly called me. Master Zhang!


    Yeah?I turned, feeling skeptical.


    Lu Ming looked hesitantas if he was struggling hard inside. Perhaps he felt embarrassedthathewassafe in the hotel while Iwas abouttorisk my lifeout there. Before he could speak, I stopped him.Theres noneed to feel embarrassed. Youre not specialized in this business. Just wait here for me.


    I closed the door and headed to the vige. I wanted to knowwhat thosefemale ghostsdid toLu Ming back there.


    Menghai Township wasnt abigce.I soonreached the vige. I went to the ce where I had put the Yin and Yang Umbreand checked it.After confirming things, Iwentin.


    The ce wasso dark thatI had to use my shlight. I went around the vige. All the houses here were stilt houses.


    Except for the sizes, the stilt houses here looked almost the same. It was asif they were molded from the same model.


    My heart sankasI thought Iwastrapped in an illusion formation. However, after taking a closer look, I saw that those stilt houseshaddifferent levels of damage. The location of the spider webs varied, too. They shouldnt be part of an illusion.


    Although I didnt know what made the residents here build simr-looking houses, therewasone thing I could confirm: This entire vige was unupied. Ididnt find anylivingpeoplethere.


    Although the night was dark, as long as I opened my eyes wide,Icould see the darkmistemittedfrom theroofsof the houses. If itwere anormal day, I wouldnt hesitate to run away if I saw this. However, tonight, to confirm my assumption, I had to tryno matter thecost.


    When I went to thest stilt house, I climbed on the bamboo stairs to enter the house. The stairs were damaged so badly that Ibrokea few stepsas I walked on them. Ialmostfelloff the stairs.


    After entering the house, I found that thefloorunderneath my feet was both soft and crispy. It was asthoughitwas a mattress. Iloweredmy headandsaw thatthe ce was covered in a thickyer of tea leaves.I had read alot of books about tea in Lu Mings house. At first nce, I recognizedtheywere newandyoung tea leaves, which were also the best. In the market, this sort of tea had a surprisingly high price. However,theleaves wereair-dried. They would break into powder at eventhegentlest touch.


    I checked around. The room was arranged simply. There was a small bed, a chairwith a backrest, a vanity, and some simple tools for tea picking.


    Isawa few small wooden boxes on the vanity. They were cosmetic boxes that women used in ancienttimes.From this, I gathered that the owner of thisstilt housewasa woman. I carefully examined the house to see if I couldfindsomething useful. However, after a while, Ididnt learn anythingnew. I just gota lot of dust in my eyes andnose.


    It seemed thistripwasnthelpful.Feeling dispirited, I brushed the dust off my body.AsI was about to leave the house, I was startledto catchapair ofred eyes gazing at me!


    I pulledmyself togetherand carefully checked what it was.I sawa dried skeleton on the opposite wall. It was hung high so I didnt see it when I first entered the ce.


    I had seen a lot of skeletons andcorpses, but I had never seenanythinglikethis one.The body was awhiteskeleton, but the head was well-preserved.The eyeswere especially lifelike. They looked nodifferentfrom a living humans eyes.


    This skeleton had a womanshead. I guessed she was the owner of this stilt house. I bowed to the skeleton and went to check the other stilt houses.


    The situation in the second house was the sameasthe first house. The floor was covered with tea leaves, and the owner of the house was hung on the wall. Her body was a skeleton, but her head was well-preserved.


    A littleter after midnight, I had checked out every house in this vige. Every housewasthe same.


    I was as tired as a dead dogas Iyon the floor ofthesthouse. Ino longer caredwhy those female ghosts wanted to harm Lu Ming. I just wanted to know why they hadcollectivelmitted suicide!

 Chapter 527: The Classic of Tea

    Chapter 527: The ssic of Tea


    I had rested for around half an hourwhen my strength finally recovered. I decided to return to the hotel. I felt anxiousatthe beginning of the night, butwhat happenedafterwas like a stage rehearsal. Those female ghosts didnt show up. I felt somewhat disappointed.


    Rightatthis moment, I seemed to hear someonewalkon the path that led to thevige. My senses heightened immediately. I walked behind the houseandspotted a stealthy figuremovethrough the vige.


    A person that came to such an eerie ce at midnightmustbe scheming something!


    As hecamecloser, I couldnt wait anymore. I startedto followhim. After a while, the man seemed to sense something. He turned around to check.


    I rushed aside to hide. When he started to walk again, I got outand followedhim. This trick worked well as it had helped me avoid him many times. He hadnt spotted me yet.


    In the end, he stopped in front of a stilt house and crouched down.The ufortable feeling in myheart rose to my throat. I guessed he had found me. Unexpectedly, he didntturnaround to see me but started to dig the soil.


    Myvisionwas hindered, so I didnt know what he was doing over there. I saw himdigsomething for a while. He disappeared after that. I guessed that celed toa tunnel.


    I wanted to go there to see. However, my heart suddenly shivered, and weakness expandedto my whole body. It was the side effect of the Heavenly Dipper formation. It was beyond my expectation that some ghostly creatures dared to intrude the Heavenly Dipper formation!


    I cursed under my breath. I had to give up onthisclueIhad beenfollowing for the whole night. Ineededto go back to save Lu Ming. But before I could move, the weak feeling in my body disappeared. I felt even better than before.


    Thisproved my assumption. It was thewordof the old ghost that had helped Lu Ming escape the female ghosts.


    When I had decided to take the riskandjump into the gorge, the old ghost used his cane to hold my leg. At first, Imistakenlythought that he wanted to harm me.


    When Lu Ming told me what he had encountered in the vige, I had a feeling that it was the old ghost who had saved him.He alsosaid that the voice that had guided him sometimes disappeared. It couldhave beenbecause of my Yin and Yang Umbre and the medium-level spirit talismans that were striking the teapot at that time.


    When I saw the fine cracks on the teapot spout, I recognized that the old ghost had pulled me to safety!


    My Heavenly Dipper formation had just been activated, but the pressure on my body soon disappeared. It didnt mean that something evil was trying to attack the formation. It meant something inside wanted to get out.


    I supposed that only the old ghost was in that house!


    After I untangled the rtionship between the events, I suddenly feltgratefulto that old ghost. In the back of my mind, hewas no longeran opponent. He was a nice and kind elder.


    Right from the beginning, Ifelt as thoughhe didnt want tokillLu Ming. I was certain that Lu Ming had done something he shouldnthave, which provoked the old ghost.


    We hadjust got off a rocky start. Our real enemy wasnt that old ghost, but the man thatjust wentunderneath the floor over there.


    I became worried. If theoldghost was on our side, I was certain that he wanted to break the Heavenly Dipper formation to save me. In other words, I was in danger!


    I wanted to retreat, but I also wanted to stay here. After considering it, I decided to stay and observe. If the ghost was fast enough, he woulde here on time. I drew the Sirius Whipand enteredthe tunnel.


    After jumping into the tunnel, I quickly assessed the surroundings. I dropped my jaw in awe. Thatce was a tea house!


    The chairs and tables were arranged neatly. There were teapots on the tables, too.A desk was positionedagainst a wall, and thick bookswere ced on top of it.However, I didnt see the manfrom earlier.


    I wasnt familiar with this ce, so I didnt look for him. Iwent overto the desk to check.One of thebookson the desk was written in ancient words that I couldnt understand.


    However, there were many illustrations of tea leaves inthebook, so I guessed it was a book about tea.I felta little disappointedand kept lookingaround. Inadvertently, I then saw the ghosts portrait!


    I became suspicious. From the clues Ihadgathered until now, thepersonthat had enticed me toe down here wanted to harm us while the old ghost wanted to save us. There should be a hostile rtionship between them. Butwhy did theculpritkeepthe portrait of the old ghost?


    Since I couldnt read the words, Iswitchedto another book. This book also recorded many things about tea. It also had a portrait of the old ghost in the back.


    At thismoment, I heard low footsteps from the depths of the tunnel. It seemed the other person was returning. I became anxiousand pickedup the third book. Surprisingly, I could understand this book as it was written in traditional Chinese!


    On the first page, the name of the book was written inrge textThe ssic of Tea. The main contents of the book included how to brew tea and how to enjoy it. There were also some short cultural stories about tea.


    WhenI reached this part of the book, I suddenly recognized something. I directly jumped to thest page of the book. Under the portrait of the old ghost, Ireadhis name. It wasTea Sage Lu Yu!


    My hands were shaking. That old man was the author ofThe ssic of Tea.Thtergenerations knew him as the Chinese Tea Sage, Lu Yu!


    It was nowonder he could possess Lu Mingin daylight. It also exinedwhy he was strong but his Yin energy waslow.


    Hewasntan evilspirit! Hewasan immortal!


    Lu Yu was a famous figure in the Tang Dynasty. He was well-known for his obsession with tea. He had mastered the tea ceremonyandtraveled to the North and South just to taste the teas in the mountains and learned how the locals brewed tea. In the end, he wrote the first known monograph on the teas in the world, calledThe ssic of Tea.The world then referred to him as the Tea Sage.


    It was said that Lu Yus good friend, Monk Ji Gong, was also a tea-lover.Not onlycould heeasily discern the kind of tea,but he could alsotell what kind of water was used to make that tea. This tea-tasting ability of hisbecamewidespread. Eventually,Emperor Taizong of Tanggot wind ofhim.


    Emperor Taizong didnt believe the rumor. He summonedMonk Ji Gongand askedhim to personally tastehistea.


    WhenMonk Ji Gong came to the pce, the Emperor asked his eunuch to make him a cup of top-quality tea. Monk Ji Gong thanked him and then gently took a sip. But then, he put the cup backand didn''ttakeasecond sip.


    Emperor Taizong found it strange. Whydont youdrink more?


    Monk Ji Gong just smiled. All of thetea Ive had wasmade by Lu Yu. After drinking his tea, everyone elses teatastes like in water.


    Emperor Taizong asked, Where is Lu Yu now?


    Lu Yu loves nature. Hes traveling the country tovisit famousces andtastingthe tea there. I dont know where he is now.


    Emperor Taizong then asked his imperial guards to ride the best horsesto searchfor Lu Yu everywhere. After one week, they found him in Zhejiang. They invited him to theImperialPce. To Emperor Taizong, although Lu Yu stammered when he spoke, he looked aloof like an immortal with great wisdom. He liked the old man as soon as he saw him. He asked Lu Yu to prepare some tea for him to see if his tea was as good as the rumors.


    Lu Yu happily agreed. He usedthetea leaves he had collectedbefore the QingmingFestival and brewed the tea using spring water. When Emperor Taizong received the cup of tea, he gently opened thelid. A refreshing aroma weed him. The tea inside was clear with a light green color.After takingthe first sip, he knew that it was thebest teain theworld. He asked the maid to send another cup of tea toMonk Ji Gong, who was also in the pce. After only one sip,Monk Ji Gong was stunned. Oh, Lu Yu is in the pce, too?


    The Emperor was surprised. How did you know that Lu Yu is here?


    Monk Ji Gongughedheartily. Only Lu Yu can make such good tea.This is not the tea of themortal world anymore.This isthe tea they enjoy in the world of the immortals.


    Emperor Taizong admired Lu Yus tea brewing technique. He wanted him to stay in the pce to serve himtea. However, Lu Yu wasnt interested in wealthortitles. Soon, he got on his horse,traveled,andsethis mind on writingThe ssic of Tea.


    I thought that Lu Mingcould beLu Yus descendant. Lu Ming had done something wrong, which made Lu Yu return to give him a lesson.


    It exined the reason why Lu Yu kept hitting Lu Mings head in his dream


    And, even if Lu Ming wasnt Lu Yus descendant,asa tea merchant, hehad toknow something about Lu Yu. Hewould be able torecognize Lu Yu for sure. However, he had never told me this.Hehad tobe hidingsomething from me!


    I recalled that before I left the hotel, Lu Ming had called mewhilelookingso hesitant. He looked asif he wanted to tell me something, buthe didnt. I guessed he wanted to tell me the truthbut was tooembarrassed at that time. I left before he could tell me anything.


    IfThessic of Teawashere, I guessed the women who died here hadaclose rtionship with Lu Yu.


    Theotherworldly item case I had epted this time could be rtedto an event that wasnt recorded in history. I was so excitedthat Icouldnt wait to untie all of these knots!

 Chapter 528: The Women Who Committed Suicide for Their Love

    Chapter 528: The Women Who Committed Suicide for Their Love


    Rightatthis moment, a murderous aura came from behind me. I shuddered. It seemed he was here.


    I ced my hand at my hipand pretendedto scratch the skin there. Then, as fast as a lightning strike, I drew the Sirius Whipandshedbackward!


    Themanwas standingbehind me. When I turned around, I saw his red eyes gazing at me. The man carried a massive, bone-chopping machete, which he used tofuriouslyhack atme.


    Luckily, I reactedin time. Otherwise, his knife would have killed me at that instant.Before his knifereached me, I swiftly rolled asideandshedhiswrist withthe Sirius Whip.


    The blow connected, and the pain forced him to drop the machete. I finally had a chance tolook athis face. He was wearing a traditional costume of theDai people.His skin tone was dark.The most eye-catching feature on his face was abig moleat the corner of his mouth.


    Peoplewithskills knew theirlimitsbest. After receiving mysh, he became vignt. Itook a deepbreathand askedcoldly,Whydoyou want to harm Mr. Lu?


    Heasked for it!Mr. Big Moleanswered fiercely.


    He had just confirmed that he was the one that had sold the purple y teapot to Lu Ming.


    I was curious. How could he get the purple y pot in the first ce? I was even more curious about the womenwho had killedthemselves in the stilt houses. What was the rtionship between them and Lu Yu?


    Unexpectedly, when the man heard my question, heflew into a frenzy.He stormedforward and hackedhis machete at me as if he didnt care about his life anymore.


    I passively defended. However, after a few strikes, he became much slower.He didnt have good martial techniques. I became bolderand attackedhim. Soon, Iwas able toforce him backward.


    If you have the guts,e after me!


    Whenhe realized that he wasnt my equal opponent, he sneered then ran toward the depths of the tunnel. After two incidents, I knew thatMr. Big Molewas good at setting up illusion formations. It was like theinsecttechnique of the Miao people.


    I understood that if I chased after him, I wouldfacedeath. However, my hot-tempered head didnt consider that much. I ran after him.


    The depths of the tunnel werelike abyrinth.There were many turns. I could only listen toMr. Big Moles footsteps to vaguely locate him.


    He was old,so he was much slower than me. The distance between us quickly shortened. I was about to catch him when suddenly, he disappeared into a junction.Moreover, it was adead-end!


    Not good! I wanted to return, but I recognizedthatthe path had changed.


    I lookedat thebyrinth-like surroundingsand felt worried. I thoughtthat I could touchmy way out of here. However, after a long time, Icouldnt findthe exit. I foundmyselfbackat the starting point.


    Then, I heard Mr. Big Mole''s crazughter. Theugh came atme from every direction. Kid, this is our Dai peoples special illusional maze formation. You cant escape no matter how hard you try. The only thing you can do iswaitfor your death here! Hahaha


    His pervertedughter lingered in myears. Sometimes, I thought he was right in front of me. Other times,he felt so far away. I couldnt locate himbysound.


    Gradually, his voice faded and disappeared. I knew he had left already. I didnt wantthat, so I continued to move.Still, I couldnt leave my spot. I had even tried the method I had used to deal withroad-blockingghosts, but it didnt work.


    I didnt know what to do. Then,a silver light shed in front of me. The old man wearing a shroud appeared.


    Although he was stillmad,he looked strangely nice in my eyes.He shot me a furious nceandturned around. He walked to an intersection. I followed behind him.


    We had walked like that for around ten minuteswhenI was finallyable to escapethebyrinth. The old man lookedathis picture in The ssic of Tea.He furrowed hisbrowsas if he was in pain. In the next second, he disappeared.


    From his recent expression, I concluded that Lu Yu hadartionship with those womenthat livedin the stilt houses. He would never tell me what happened. If I wanted to know, Iwould haveto learn fromMr. Big Mole!


    After I crawledout of the tunnel, I saw that the sky was bright. The Yin energy that hadcoveredthe entire vige was gone. However, it was still cold outside. I didnt lingerand rushedback to the hotel.


    When Ireturned to the room,Lu Ming was idlywatchingthe ceiling. His hand supported hischin.When he saw me, he lookedsurprised.


    How did you get back? He sat on his bed.


    Why did you think that I wouldn''e back?


    I saw theworryin his eyes.However,since there was something wrongaboutthis, I deliberatelymadea face.


    He shook his head.Master Zhang, Im sorry.


    All right, all right. Tell me everything fromstarttofinish.


    If he wanted to tell me the truth, I shouldnt be mad at him. I sighedand signaled athim totalk.


    I know that old ghost.Itwas Lu Yu,the Tea Sage. He was also myfamilys ancestor.


    Since I had guessed itearlier, I wasnt surprised. I noddedand asked,Whydidn''t youtell me this right from the start?


    How could I tell someone about this? I dont want to be deemed a bad descendant who has no regardforhis ancestor. Lu Ming licked his lips. Thatvigewas myancestorsobsessionwhilehe was alive. I got the purple y teapot from there. If I cant keep it anymore, I would like to return it to that ce. However, I didnt expect that the teapot would turn to harm me


    It seemed he didnt know the rtionship between Lu Yu and that vige. Do you know a man with abig mole? Did he sell the teapot to you?


    How did you know that? Lu Ming was surprised.


    I told him about the encounter I hadst night. His face paled shortly. He shiveredhard. Soon, sweat beaded his forehead. I hurried to press on his medial cleft. Lu Ming seemed to recall something very frightening.


    He got a hold of himself. After a while, he opened his mouth. It seems The legend of the thirty-six women who killed themselves to keep their dignity is true. Then, he grabbed my hand. Did you count those houses? Aretherethirty-six in total?


    I dont remember the number, but I guess its approximatelythirty-six.Whatare thethirty-six womenwho killedthemselves for theirdignity?


    Lu Mings eyes reddened.He wept andtold me a story that was recorded in his familysgenealogy.


    Lu Yu lived in the Tang Dynasty. For his whole life, he had always been interested in tea.Sincehehada surprisingly broad knowledge of tea, hebecame friends withmany high-rank courtiers.


    To dig deeper into the world of tea, Lu Yu got on his skinny horseand traveledthousands of miles to the Nanzhao Kingdom, wheretea was abundant.


    At that time, the Nanzhao Kingdom was a vassal state of the Tang Dynasty. The people there weed Lu Yu warmly.Moreover, with his vast knowledge and aloof,immortal-like appearance,many girlssecretlyloved him.


    Thirty-six young women lovedhim the most. They volunteered togoto Lu Yusresidenceto help himwrite The ssic of Tea. Lu Yu was touchedbytheir sincere affection. He created a stilt house for each of them. Although he was with them every day todiscussteas and how to make good teas, he was never close to any of them.However,those women thoughtofhim as their husband.


    Unfortunately, the happy days didntst long. A few yearster, the war burst out. The Nanzhao Kingdom took the chance to rebel against the Tang Dynasty. The rtionship between the two countries tensed up. Lu Yu was forced to go home. Before he left, he asked the women to dry tea leaves for him.If afterthree yearshe didnte back, it meant he was dead. If that happened, the women should dismissthetea house and start their lives anew.


    Lu Yuwasgone for three years and there was no piece of newsabout him. The thirty-six women remembered the times they had spent with him. Being brave and loyal women with dignity, they decided tomit suicide to show their loyaltyto their husband.


    However, Lu Yu wasnt dead yet. He had been jailed for years because he made satirical poemsthatmocked the imperial court. After a few years, his good friends helped himget out. As soon as he was released, he criedand whippedhis strong horse. He seizedeach second to go to the Nanzhao Kingdom where he found that his thirty-six confidantes had killed themselves for their love.


    Lu Yus heart died at that moment. Hethenspent allof his mindand efforts to studytea. In the end,he introducedtheworld to The ssic of Tea.


    Lu Yu didnt spend thest days of his life in the Nanzhao Kingdom. Before leaving, he used his blood mixed with copper to create thirty-six purple y teapots, whichhe buried with each of the women.

 Chapter 529: Black Beans Showing the Way

    Chapter 529: ck Beans Showing the Way


    It took me a while to pull myself together after listening to the story of the thirty-six women who had killed themselves to prove their love. I respected and admired them. At the same time, I had to figure out whyMr. Big Molewanted to harm Lu Ming.


    Mr. Big Molecould be the descendant of one of the thirty-six women, and his familymight havepassed the grudge against Lu Yu to the next generations.


    Lu Ming had the same ideaand askedskeptically,If he wanted to harm me right from the start, whydidhe wait until now? Whydidn''t hekill me at the time I bought the teapot?


    I dont know. We should remain vignt, ready todeal with all changes. Im sure he willmakethe next move soon, I told him.


    Mr. Big Molewas good at castingillusionspells, soI would just wait for him here. I didnt think he was powerful enough to make this entire hotel disappear.


    But what happened next proved he could do that


    Anyway, now that Iknew the old ghosts identity, I didnt want to arrangeadefensiveformation in the hotel room.Apart fromillusionmagic,Mr. Big Moledid not seemto have any other skills.After discussing the nwithLu Ming, wedecided to wait for him toe to us. At nightfall, we just stayed in the hotel.


    I didnt set up anything in the room, but I gave Lu Ming a few talismans just to be safe. I also kept the Peach Soul Flower at my waist.


    There werent many people in the township, and things were even quieter atnight.Everything was fine before, butnow that wewere waiting,Ifelt somiserablehere.


    Fortunately, wehadthe teapot with us. We werent scaredand just satquietly. Still, waitingdidnt bring us joy.


    After midnight,Mr. Big Molestill hadnte yet. Lu Ming yawned. Its sote. Idont think he willshow up tonight.


    Perhaps. Anyway,you should sleep first. Im going to wait for him for a little longer. I nced at the teapot, finding nothingstrange.


    I told Lu Ming to rest. He nodded,tuckedintobed,and slept.


    I was the only onewaiting. Around half an hourter, I also thought thatMr. Big Molewouldntshow uptonight. I letmy guard down and rxedby ying nts vs. Zombies on my phone.


    As I waited, I heardanging noise that made me turn around to check. Lu Ming had just kicked the teapot.


    I smiled. This grown man didnt have agoodsleeping posture. I got up,picked up the teapot,and putit back. Then, I resumed my game.


    Iterbecametired. Theclockonmy phone showedthatit was 2:00 AM. I was sure thatMr. Big Molewouldnte tonight. I turned to the bedand was preparedto sleep. Strangely, the bed was emptyLu Ming was gone!


    Both the door to the room and the toilet were in front of me. If he hadgottenup to go there, Iwouldhave seen him. However, he disappearedwithout a sound. It wasas if he had evaporated into thin air.


    DidMr. Big Moledraghiminto an illusionwhile he was sleeping? Why didnt Lu Yu help him?


    I turned to the teapot. It was tilted again. The purple y surface of the teapot now had frightening cracks. I now realized that the nging noise the teapot made wasprobablyLu Yus reminder to me.


    Since Lu Yu hadnt shown up, I had to rely on myself. However, I didnt know how to deal with the Dai peoplesillusionmagic. For the time being, I moved around the room like an ant running on a hot pan.


    I suddenly saw Lu Mings coat on the hanger at the corner of the room. I got an idea.


    I burned three joss sticks then opened the window. Then, I usedthe coat hanger toraisehis coat higher in the airand calledhis name loudly.


    It was the most basic soul beckoning technique. People in many rural areas had used this technique for quite a long time. As my voice grew louder, the surroundings seemed colder. After a gust of wind, more shadows appeared at the window.


    There were males,females, elders, and children. They were the wanderingghosts in this area. They came as I was beckoning the souls. I couldnt deny them. Otherwise, they would try every means to hinder Lu Mings soul. I had to take out a stack of yellow papers from my bagandburnitfor them.


    Most of the ghosts left after receiving the offering, except for three old ghosts thatlingeredby the window. They smiledevilly at me.


    Want totakeadvantage of me, huh? I sneered.


    I had heard that ghosts could sometimemitfraud. I didnt buy it at that time, but after seeing it for myself, myknowledge was widened.


    If they didnthave any dignity, I wouldnt bepolitewiththem. I made some hand seals and threw a talisman. One of the ghosts got hit,screeched, and turnedinto a wisp of ck smoke. The other two ghosts were scaredand quickly fled.


    I didnt have time to mind them and continued to call Lu Mings name. Soon, I found a strange phenomenonhappeningto the three joss sticks I had burned. Two of them were burning fast. One was burning much slower.


    The three joss sticks represented Lu Mings three ethereal souls.Becausethe three joss sticks were burning at different speeds, it meant that Lu Ming had heard my calling. He wanted to return but he was trapped inMr. Big Molesillusionmagic. Under the two pulling forces, his three ethereal souls were parting!


    If one of the three joss sticks burned down and Lu Ming hadnte back, my soul beckoning ritual would fail. Itwould mean that he wouldnt return tonight.


    One more second in the illusory worldwasone more second he was in danger. I became tense.


    Atthis moment, the teapot behind me nged again. Iloweredmy headtolook at it. The teapot tilted to one side. The lidhad brokeninto a few pieces.


    It seemed Lu Yu wasnt in a better situation than I was. I couldnt rely on him. I turned aroundand calledfor Lu Ming. Whenmy gaze fell tothe teapot without the lid, I suddenly got an idea.


    This teapot was where Yu Lu dwelled. Even a small wisp of energy from this teapot was enough to subdue those ghosts outside.SinceLu Ming was Lu Yus descendant, hehad tobe familiar with his aura.


    I thought it over then brought the teapot to the window. I broughtitto my mouthand usedmy best voice to scream as loud as possible. The sound echoed through the body of the teapot and escaped through the spout. It traveledfar in the air.


    After screaming for a while, Isawthat the three joss sticks now had the same burning rate. It meant my method had worked!


    A gust of cold wind came from a far distance. I then saw a ck dot flying toward the window. It was movingso fastthat it became clearer in my vision. In the end, it turned into a dark shadow.


    When I saw the shadow, I heaved a sigh of relief. It was Lu Mings soul.


    However,sincehis soul was forced to leave his body, he looked a little bewildered. He gazed at me with hisdull eyes.


    Ihad gottenwhat I wanted. After everything was settled, I put outthethree joss sticks.


    Lu Mings soul would return to his body now, so I hurried tosticka talismantothe soulsforehead. The talisman would slow downthesoulwithouthurtingit.It was a really good chance for me to follow his soulback tothe illusional magic formation.


    I followed Lu Mings soul and recognized that it was heading in the opposite directionofLu Yus fortified vige. Since I wasnt familiar with the ce, I became extra careful. WhenIarrivedat thesmall pavilion, Lu Mings soul disappeared.


    This small pavilion seemed to be theentrance of themagic formation. I took out a handful of ck beansand sprinkledthem onto the groundasI advanced.


    Indeed, after entering the pavilion, my surroundings turned into abyrinth. Fortunately, Lu Mings soul hadnt gone too far. I rushed after him and eventually, I found Lu Mings body in the center of the formation.


    When his soul saw his body,itwas excitedand quickly headed to the body.I had to make a few hand sealsto stop it. Then, Ilifted and supportedLu Mings body.


    I grabbed his soul and walked toace where I could see the ck beans. I tore the yellow talismanoffthe souls forehead.


    ck beans had thick Yang energy, and although they couldntdestroyMr. Big Moles illusional magic formation,theycould damage Lu Mings soul. When the soul saw the ck beans,itsubconsciouslywanted to run away. I had to holdittightly.


    The most powerful feature of the formation was that it could change continuously. We may not be able tofind the exit. However, no matter how much thisbyrinth changed, the ck beans I had sprinkled on the ground wouldnt disappear.


    Thus, I stopped after every step and waited for Lu Mings soul to be nervous.I just followedthe ck beansandadvancedwithouthesitation.


    I kept walking for half an hour before Igotrid of the illusional magic formation.Lu Mings soul was weak because of the ck beans. I made him return tohisbody and pped him to wake him up.


    Since Lu Mings soul was damaged, he needed to rest. However, the old ghost was in trouble and needed my help. I was afraid that if I left alone now, Lu Mingwould be trapped again. Thats why I had to wake him up.


    Master Zhang, youre hereLu Ming knewthatI had rescued him. He gave me a thumbs-up but his voice was so feeble.


    That old ghost must be in trouble now. We have to save him. Can you put up with this a littlelonger? I was worried that he would fapartatacritical moment like this.

 Chapter 530: To Save or Not to Save?

    Chapter 530: To Save or Not to Save?


    Lu Ming tried tosmile. Im okay. Then, he remembered what I said. My ancestor is in trouble?


    I nodded.


    Iknewhewas being plotted against! As soon as Lu Mingknewthat Lu Yuwasin danger, he was stirred up. It wasas if he had justreceivedan energy boost. He pulled meand rushedtoward the vige.


    Alongthe way there, Lu Ming told me that he heard the old man callhim whilehe wassleeping. He sawthe man waveat him. Instinctively, he walked toward him. When he camenear, he recognized it wasMr. Big Mole. Butbefore he could run, his surroundings changed.


    Lu Ming knew he couldnt escape, so he turned andlookedatMr. Big Mole,ready to risk his life ifnecessary. Unexpectedly,Mr. Big Moledidnt want to fight him. He turnedandleft. Before he left he said,Im going todeal withthat old man first. Then, itll beyour turn


    Lu Ming knew things had gone wrong at that time. Afterward, he asked me, Are you sure you can deal with the thirty-six female ghosts?


    What do you mean? Those female ghosts want to kill Lu Yu? I haltedand frowned.


    Lu Mingnodded. Sincewe are both fine and not in danger, only those thirty-six women could make my ancestore out of the teapot.


    Even though the women had a deep love for Lu Yu, they had died with resentment. After one thousand years, their resentful energieshad grown extremely powerful. IfMr. Big Molewanted to pour oil into the fire by telling the women that Lu Yu wasnt deadatthat time, the womens wrathwouldskyrocket!


    Lu Yu wouldnt be afraid of them. However,because ofhis guilty conscience,he couldlet them hurt him without fighting back


    I carefully considered the possibilityand thoughtthat even if I could deal with the thirty-six ghosts, Lu Yu wouldnt allow me to hurt them. The only solution now was to findMr. Big Molebefore the women could take action. It was the only chance to awakentheirlove for Lu Yu.


    What do you have in mind? Lu Ming sounded worriedasI had kept silent.


    I told him my idea. Then, I said, Do you know whereMr. Big Moleis?


    I thought that he lived in the vige, but nowLu Ming shook his head. His face looked haggard. Is thereadifferent solution youcanthink of?


    Lets go to the scene to see, I said helplessly.I had no hope now.


    If Lu Yuwasntcruel to the girls, then no matter how hard I tried, it would be liketalking to apersonwho didnt want to live anymore.


    When we reached the vige, we saw wisps of purple Yin energyrollinto a vortex. Lu Yuhelda cane in his hand. He stoodin the center of the vortex.


    The female ghostssurroundedhim. They were tearing his body. Lu Yu didnt resist. He sighed. Tears rolled downhis face.


    The situation was exactlyas Ihad imagined!


    Damn it! Im going to risk my life! When Lu Ming sawthe scene, he seemed to haveturnedberserkinstantly. Hiseyesturnedred. Then, he roaredand dashed forward.


    His voice was really loud, so all thefemale ghosts turned around. I felt like there was a drum being hit inside my head. Luckily for us, the female ghosts kept their focus on Lu Yu. They just took a nceat us and thenresumed their attackson him.


    I pulled Lu Mingand restrainedhim. Then, I ppedhim.


    Can you behave? Im not an immortal. I cant save you from the ws of those thousand-year-old female ghosts! I clenched my jaw.


    After yelling at him, my nose felt a little sore. Id beenworking on this casefor half a month and this was going to be the ending. I felt somewhat lost.


    Lu Ming smiled at me. Hisvoice was strangely calm. Master Zhang, I understandwhat youre thinking. Im going to get in there, butitsnot because of my impulsive intention.


    What? I was surprised.


    He wanted to get in there tomakethe female ghosts attack him.Lu Yu could ignore his safety, but he wouldnt neglect his descendant.The old manmight attack the female ghosts to save Lu Ming, which would scare the female ghosts away.


    It wasnt a bad idea. However, it was too risky. If Lu Yu hesitated for a second, those ghosts would tear Lu Ming apart. I consideredit and askedhelplessly, Is it worth risking your life to save a man who died more than one thousand years ago?


    Hes my ancestor! Lu Ming replied then patted my shoulder. Master Zhang, Ivetransferred a little sum to you today. Please ept it as the payment. If I cant escape, you should run.He unbuttoned his suit and vest. Then, he dashedforward.


    I had tears in my eyes. I had thought that Lu Ming was a timid man. I had never thought that hecould beso manly.


    As he chargedforward, he bit the tip of his tongue and spat hisbloodout.The seven or eight ghostsclosestto him screeched in pain.


    Since Lu Mings soul was already weak, thatwas allhis blood could do. Still, he had provoked the female ghosts. They screamedand jumpedtoward him. Lu Yu didnt move. He actedas though he didnt see anything.


    My heartskipped a beat. Instinctively, Irushedin to save him. At the moment our lives were at stake, Lu Yu suddenlyughed.


    Hiughtersounded even sadder thana mans cry. However, it proved that Lu Yu had made his choice. I exhaledand held thePeach Soul Flower tightly.


    After Lu Yuughed, his body emitted a dazzling silver light. This light swallowed the thirty-six ghosts purple Yin energy. A secondter, all the ghosts stopped their attacks. Theywerestill, just as if they werefrozen.


    I eased my mindand gaveLu Ming a thumbs-up. He smiled at me then kowtowed to Lu Yu three times. He askedthe old man to leave with him.


    Lu Yu looked at Lu Ming. Finally, hegavea kind smile. However, he didnt move. Hiseyesshiftedfrom Lu Ming to the female ghosts. Lu Ming wasnt in danger anymore, which made Lu Yu hesitant.


    It wasnt good if we lingered like this. I looked at the spirit talisman in my handand thoughtabout using a talisman to subdue Lu Yu. No matter what, he was wounded and couldnt escape.


    However, before I could move, the situation changed again. The female ghosts started to shake as if they hadreceived anelectric shock.


    I suddenly had a bad premonition. Indeed, the femaleghosts soon regained control oftheirmovements. The silver halo Lu Yu had created shattered into pieces, vanishingshortly after.


    Lu Yu felltothe ground. At the same time, I heard someonescreech. I was surprised. It wasMr. Big Moles voice! It turned out he was hiding nearby!

 Chapter 531: A Tea Sage Throughout the Ages

    Chapter 531: A Tea Sage Throughout the Ages


    From the previous screech, it wasnt hard to guess that hewashurt. I was different. I had no pressure or threat now. I boldly followed the source of the sound and found a spot of soil thatappearedto be protrudingseveral centimeters from the ground.


    I squatted and saw light underneath. I admiredMr. Big Moleeven more now. That man liked digging burrows. He was like an old rat!


    I raised my legand kicked awaythe wooden board thatwas coveringthe tunnel. Then, I jumped into the tunnel.


    As I fell, my eyes locked onto my target. I sawMr. Big Molesitting cross-legged on the ground. Blood had stained his chest and mouth. Hewashurt.


    As Inded, I squatted and beautifully swept my leg, which hitMr. Big Moleshead. He screamed and fellto the ground. I took the chance to subdue him. I pulledhis arms togetherand immobilized him.


    AfterI hadhim under control, I finally calmed my heart. Then, I noticed that he had a small bronze bucket in front of him. It containeda ckandslimy substance.In front of that bucket were rows of heads.


    I carefully counted them. There were thirty-six heads. He had used their heads to control the thirty-six female ghosts out there.


    Lu Ming also jumped into the tunnel. He heaved a sigh of relief when he saw that I had already subduedMr. Big Mole. Then, he walked to me.


    When he saw the ck substance, he was surprised. He sniffed and asked, Isthisopium extract?


    After hearinghim, I also realized it.It was nowonder I thought it looked familiar. It was the extract from the opium poppy. This thing is more addictive than other poisons.


    There was nodoubt thatMr. Big Molehad been using this addictiveandhallucinogenic substance to control the female ghosts.However,I was certain that he had put something else in the substance.


    I pressed on his body. You lost!


    Yeah, thatsright.I lost.Mr. Big Molesighed. Hiseyeswere red. I didnt expect that youwould save Lu from the magic formationsofast. I had underestimated you. I lost, and I have nothing to defend myself withThe n Ipouredhalf of my lifeintowas destroyed in your hands, boy. I guess its my fate, isnt it? I justregretthe deaths of my thirty-six ancestors.


    Mr. Big Molestarted to weep before he finished talking. However, hedidntsayanything to beg usor insultus. He had hiswayofhintingat us to endhis life.


    Brother,you''re notconvinced yet, are you?asked Lu Ming with a dispirited face.


    Hepicked up the machete on the groundand walked towardMr. Big Mole.BeforeMr. Big Molecould answer, he suddenlystabbed the machete into his own thigh.


    His thigh began to bleed hard. Lu Ming said, Let theancestors solve their grudge. We, descendants, dont need to join this,okay? This cut isa gift fromme.


    Mr. Big Molehad never thought that Lu Ming would do that. His eyes sparkled, but he still wore a dark face. Im not satisfied.


    Lu Ming gave him a nod. He grabbed my shoulder tightly with one hand then used the otherhandto withdrawthe machetefromhis thigh.Blood spurted atMr. Big Moles face. At this moment,Mr. Big Moles eyes changed.


    The extreme pain made Lu Ming sweat. He tried to keep himself upand aimedat his thigh one more time.


    Mr. Big Molegrabbed the macheteand saidcoldly,Mr. Lu, I see your goodwill. Butmany things cantbe solved withjustgoodwill. Letsgoout to see. If those ghosts go, itwillberesolved. Then, he wiggledand crawledout of the tunnel.


    AsI helped Lu Ming get out of the tunnel, we sawMr. Big Molegazeat the vige. Hiseyes weresharp.


    I followedhis line of sightandsaw a vast array of purple lightfromthe thirty-six ugly female ghosts. They were sitting around Lu Yu.


    Lu Yu was talking andughing with the women.Lu Yusaloofandimmortal appearance was extraordinary.


    Mr. Big Molesmiled at Lu Mingthen limped away. Although he hadnt said anything, we knew his grudge was gone.


    Lu Ming had stabbed himself onceinexchange for the settlement of the thousand-year grudge. It was rare good karma.


    Afterward, we didnt disturb Lu Yu and his women. I supported Lu Mingand wentback to the hotel. I sprinkled some Yunnan medicinal powder on his wound and helped him drink a ss of charm water.


    SinceLu Ming had lost lots of blood, he should be weak. However, he looked cheerfnd high-spirited. He saidto me,My ancestor told me thathe will leavewith those female ghosts


    I smiledand gavehim a nod. It wasnt out of my expectation.


    Lu Mingughed for a while.Since I hadnt asked him anything, hesaid,You havent asked me why my ancestor used his cane to knock my head in my dreams.


    Doyou think that Idont know anything? Iughedand scoffed athim.


    Actually, afterI had talkedto the waiter, Irealizedone thing: The old man only appearedwhen Lu Ming had a meeting for a business deal withJapanese people.


    I had keptit on my mind. Later on, Ilearnedthat Lu Ming was about to sign abigtea packaging deal with a Japanesepany.


    Lu Ming had used his power in the tea productionindustry to buy the best quality teasforlow prices in China. The tea was thentransported to Japan for packaging. There, they wouldbel the tea as Japanese-branded Tea then transport the tea back to sell in the Maindformuch higher prices.


    If they worked in thisway, Lu Ming and the Japanesepany could earn big profits. However, it wasnt fair to the tea farmers and the consumers in China.


    Thiswas about harmingpeople whilebenefitingoneself.


    Sincethe old ghost hade to stop this dirty business, he knew he wasnt an evil spirit.After knowing that the old ghost was the Tea Sage Lu Yu, I hadpletelyuncoveredthetruth.Lu Ming had deceivedme the entire time. Not only did he know that the ghost was Lu Yu, but he also knew why Lu Yuwastroublinghim. He tricked me into assisting him. He wanted to get rid of Lu Yu and wanted to getadeal with the Japanesepany.After thinkingabout it, the way he had handled this story was like a kid!


    Arent you mad at me? Ididnt tellyou the truth. Lu Ming was embarrassed.


    I gave him a wry smile. How could I not be mad? Right from the start, I didnt want to get involved in this.However,Its good that youverecognized your fault.


    Lu Yu was gone. However,sinceLu Ming had resolutely stabbed his thigh, I guessed he had made everything clear in his head. He wouldnt cooperate with the Japanespany.


    Indeed,thesecond weekend after I had left, Lu Ming called meand toldme that he had cuttieswith the Japanesepany. Moreover, he was buildingatea house in Xishuangbanna to pay tribute to Lu Yu the Tea Sage, for his contribution to the world.


    I will put all of my savings into this tea farm. I will make all thevisitorsfeel the charm of Chinese tea culture.


    Whydoyou want to do that?


    Its in memory of my ancestor. And, I want touse my effortsto impart the inheritance of our culture to the next generations.


    It seemsyouveunderstood your ancestors idea well I smiledand felthappy for him from the bottom of my heart.


    Although our lives are getting better and better, we are losing the precious culture imparted to usbyour ancestors at everysecond that passes.


    Why is that? Because more and more people favor foreign winds.Theyfeel that the moon inaforeign country is rounder than the moon in China.


    It makes them learn IELTS to master English and me the Chinesenguage for being old and out-of-date.


    It makes them kneel to Korean starsand drool overtheir handsomeOppas shamelessly.


    Theyhadforgotten that, five thousand years ago, China was the center of the world. Thanks to Chinese culture, Japanese culture and Korean culture were derived.


    Lu Ming was lucky that at the critical moment, Lu Yu appeared and pulled him back. But there was only one Lu Yu in this world. Who woulde to pull us back? I didnt want to see the great Chinese people graduallyfallto degeneration.


    In memory of the Tea Sage Lu Yu, I changed my ringtone to a song the people had written for him, calledGrandpas Tea.


    When grandpa makes tea, theres a vor called home. My white-haired grandpa. Whenyoudrink tea, you are not allowed to talk.


    Lu Yu made tea. He didnt care about wealth or fame. With a skinny horse, he traveled the world

 Chapter 532: The Weird Man that Burned Peoples Houses

    Chapter 532: The Weird Man that Burned People''s Houses


    During this time,I had no business casesand my life was so boring. Even the people that often came to talk nonsensewithmestoppedvisiting. Every day, I lookedintothe voidand stayed idle.


    Li Mazi had to staybyRu Xues side for twenty-four hours a day tosupporther through her puerperium.


    As such,I decided to drive to the nearby countryside viges to see if Iwaslucky enough to collect one or two otherworldly items. However, afterlooking around, Ididnt find anything. Feeling helpless, I returned to my antique shopempty-handed.


    After a week, I almost felt mold growing on my body. I couldnt stand it anymore. I thoughtaboutwalking over tothe antique marketwhen all of a sudden, my phone rang.


    It was a strange number registered in Guangxi. I immediately pulled myself together. Not many people knew my phone number. Except for my friends andfamily, therest of the peoplewho called me were customers with troubles.


    Indeed, as soon as I picked up the call, the other party blurted,Excuse me, are you Mr. Zhang? I am Hong Tianbao. Recently, Ive bumped into something very strange. I got your number from a friend. He told me that youre a real master. I would like to invite you toe and help me


    Although Hong Tianbao spokequickly,I could still understand what he was saying. After he told me about the situation, I roughly gotthe picture.


    Hong Tianbaoworkedin the jade business in Guangxi. A week ago, he received his brothers call saying that there could be something wrong with his father, Mr. Hong. At night time, the old manranto the field, and when he came back in the morning, hecouldntremember anything. At first, Hong Tianbao thought it wasnt a big deal. He had some urgent business caseson his te, so hedidnt payattention to the matter. However, an event happened the other day, which made him hand over the jade business to his wife. He had toreturn home.


    His father hadsetthe house of a rich family in the vige on fire. Moreover, heughed crazilyin front ofthe big fire.Luckily,peoplestopped him immediately. Otherwise, the consequences wouldhave beenunimaginable.


    Murderandarson are both felonies. If this casewasbrought to the Police Bureau, his father would be jailed for sure. Hong Tianjiang, Hong Tianbaos brother, had to beg the victimsfamily for a long time and paid them twenty thousandrenminbiaspensation, which kept them from reporting the case to the police.


    Hong Tianbao had been working away from home for years, and he had encountered manystrangesituations. When he came home, he knew his father had probably met something foul. As such,he used his channels toobtainmy phone number. He called meforhelp and promised to pay me a bigmission.


    SinceI had almostlost my mindtoboredom andwaspromised a great payment, Icouldnt deny this case. I booked the flight ticket immediately. When I arrived at Guangxi Airport, Hong Tianbao came to pick me up personally. Then, we got in the carand droveto Hong Tianbaos hometown. Thevigewas called Jintian.


    Hong Tianbao was burly and strong. At first nce, he looked around three hundred pounds. As soon as I got into the car, he asked mein an urgent voice,Howwillyou solve this?


    I gave him a reluctant smile. I need to see the victim first.


    Im sorry, sir. Im too worried.


    I looked at the dark circles under his eyes.I didnt me him.Strange things were happeningto his father. As hisson, itwould bestrangeifhe wasnt worried.


    Along the way, I closed my eyes to regain myposure. Hong Tianbaowas sensible. He was restlessly anxious, but he didnt disturb me.


    After hours oftravelingby car, Hong Tianbao woke me up. I opened my eyes andsaw thatthe car had stopped.


    Mr. Zhang Hong Tianbao rubbed his handsand lookedhesitant.


    I intervened, Brother, youre a few years older than me. Just call me by my name. You dont need to betoopolite.


    Hong Tianbao was a true talent amongst businessmen. He immediately changedand started callingmeBrother Jiulin.


    Hewas worriedbecause his father,Old Hong,had lost his mind. Moreover, the old man hatedwhen peopletold him that he was beingpestered by something evil. Old Hong deemed that he was all right and that everything was fabricated by Hong Tianbaobecause hedidnt want to take care of him. Hong Tianbao was worried that Old Hongwould assault meonceweentered hishouse.


    Its all right. In this business of mine, people often doubt us. Ive learned how to be calm and aloof.


    Anyway, otherworldly items werent ordinary items that people could ept. Moreover, Hong Tianbao said that his father didnt remember anything. It was reasonable that he wouldbehostile.


    Seeing that I didnt care about that, Hong Tianbao heaved a sigh of relief and got out of the car first.


    Hong Tianbaos home was a normalthree-bedroom, tiled house. There was a yard in front of the house, wherethey had dried somefood.


    When we got out of the car, a middle-aged man that looked simr to Hong Tianbao came out to wee us. Hong Tianbao introducedme totheman. Helooked older than Hong Tianbao, but he was actually his younger brother. His name wasHong Tianjiang.


    Hong Tianjiang was a genuine person and a farmer. He was simple,friendly, and spoke politely. He invited me to enter the house and poured me tea. He even offered me some steamedcake.


    Id been living in the city forsolong thatI found thesecountryside snacks refreshing anddelicious. We sat in the living roomand chatted.


    Wheres your father? Wehad been talking for a long time, but I hadnt seen Old Hong yet. Ithoughtitwasstrange.


    The brothers exchanged looks then sighed. Hong Tianjiang blushed. He seemed to be strugglingmentally but couldnt make a sound. I felt things wereeven stranger. Did something happen to Old Hong again?


    Anyway, Hong Tianbao was an experienced businessman.After hesitatingfor a while, he told me the truth.


    Sincethey were afraid that the old man would go and burn peopleshomesat midnight again, they decided to lock him up in his room. Old Hongcaused troublethe whole night yesterday. Heshouldbe sleeping now.


    I looked around and found a locked room.It was nowonder why they were reluctant when they talked to me. Locking up their father in the house was considered very unfilial behavior in the countryside.


    However, I thought it was normal. Arsonwas a bigcrime.Even if hewasntput in jail, hecouldend up in an asylum.


    It was a littlete in the afternoon, so I told them that I wanted to restand that they should wake me up at nightfall.


    The brothers noddedand arranged a clean room for me. They would stay in the living room to rest. I didntwaste time. I goton the bed anddriftedinto sleep.


    At around midnight, Hong Tianbao woke me up. When I opened my eyes, I sawthat he had ceda fingeroverhis mouth. He sighed and signaled atme to keep silent. Then, he carefully pointed at the locked room.


    I immediately recognized that Old Hong had started to take action. I got off the bed, tiptoedto Old Hongs room,and putmy eartothe door.


    I heard heavy footsteps inside the room. I guessed Old Hong was trying to findaway out. I even heard his heavy breathing. It sounded likea wild beastspants.


    It seemed he was being pestered byaspirit. That spiritrealizedthat he couldnt leave the room so he had be hot-tempered.


    I silently asked Hong Tianbao to open the door. Hong Tianbao nodded. When he inserted the key into the lock, heidentallycreated a low noise. The footsteps inside immediately stopped.


    Move aside! I recognized that it wasnt goodand pulledHong Tianbao to hide to one side.


    Hong Tianjiang rubbed his eyesand walkedtoward us. Guys, what happened?


    He had just woken up and saw us in the corner.


    Ididnt havetime to exin. Before I could speak, the room was kicked open. An old man around seventy or eighty years old boldly stormed out of the room.


    He shot us a nce. His eyes were bloodshot as if he had just seen his arch enemies. Hong Tianbao walked forward. He seemed to want to talk to his father, but I pulled him back.


    I knew the otherworldly item had gottenthe best of Old Hong andwas controllinghim. If Hong Tianbaowentto him, it would be very dangerous.


    Father, you Are you okay?


    I had just grabbed Hong Tianbaowhen Isaw that Hong Tianjiang waspulling Old Hongs arm; hewas worried.An ufortable feelingrosein my heart. I secretly held a talisman in my left handand was readyto save Hong Tianjiang at the critical moment.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as Itookthe talisman out of my pocket, Old Hongs eyes turned to me. He was moving slowly,but I could hear his bonescracklike a rusted robot.


    His eyes lingered at my hand. Perhaps he had recognized I was holding a spirit talisman. However, he wasnt scaredandjust snorted.


    I felt worriedand pulledHong Tianbao behind me. I was ready toteachthis boldandhaughty old man a lesson, but before I could take action, Old Hong suddenly grabbed Hong Tianjian by his corand liftedhim.


    An old man around seventy years old could easilylifta grown man!Thiswastoostrange.


    He hurled Hong Tianjiang toward us. Hong Tianbao and I hurried to catch Hong Tianjiang. As soon as we put him on the ground, Old Hong slowly spoke.You are no good.


    I was startled. It was strange that he didnt want to hurt usas he suddenly left the house.I asked Hong Tianbao and Hong Tianjiang to stay and protect their families. In themeantime, I got up and chased after him!

 Chapter 533: The Red Turban

    Chapter 533: The Red Turban


    While walking, I held the talisman in my hand tightly. IfOld Hong turned around, I would use it to defend myself. At the same time, I made a hand seal and held it to conceal my Yang energy. Old Hong wouldnt recognize that I was following him.


    Old Hong was runningquicklyand I was worried about him. I wondered if his body could endure this trip.


    Thepathwe were walking on didnt have lights. The surroundings were frighteningly silent.


    I carefully walked behind him. I saw Old Hong finally stop by a big rock by the street. He mumbled something indistinctive.


    I didnt dare to get close to him. While I was worrying about what to do, he suddenly moved. He raised his right fist over his head. All of a sudden, he screamed, People are one family! Destroy the Qing monsters!


    I was startled when he roared andidentally loosenedthe hand seal I wasmaking. Instantaneously, my Yang energy was revealed. Old Hong, who had just boldlyroared, shotadark lookatme.


    I recognized that itwasnta good sign. Iquicklyretreated. At the same time, my left hand palmedthe talisman I was holdingat the spot I had just stood a moment ago.


    As soon as I retreated, Old Hong appeared. His right hand looked like a wthat aimedat my neck.I was startled. If I didnt retreat fast enough, even if I didnt die, I would be hurt badly!


    It seemed he was really hard to deal with. Iwithdrewthe Sirius Whipand engagedin a fight with Old Hong.Before Ihadeto Guangxi, Ididnt think this case would bea big deal.Ididntprepare too many defensive itemsbesidesthe Sirius Whip.


    Old Hongs eyes sparkled when he saw the Sirius Whip in my hand.Suddenly, he looked as though he disdained me.


    You shouldnt put your nose in someones business! He estimated that I wasnt easy to deal with. Old Hong decided to threaten me to force me back.


    I wasnt scared at and barked, What do you want to do?


    The spirit didnt haveagrudge against Old Hong.Itseemed the spirit was borrowingthe old mans body to fulfill something.


    Whenanotherworldly item possessesa humanbodyand doesntwant to take revenge ontheperson,thenthatotherworldly itemprobably needsthe living human to fulfill its wish.If I could ask him and help himplete his wish, perhaps we could solve this.


    MuahahaHe suddenlyughed, but hisughter seemed toefromhis belly.


    He lifted his headand talkedboldly and righteously. My great careerisnt over. How could an ignorantandlow citizen like you understand this?


    I felt so awkward.Wasthis man fromancienttimes? But whatwashis great career? Ohshoot,wasbing an Emperor his great career?


    My advice to youis to give it up. Otherwise, whats waiting for you iplete destruction!Although I spoke softly, my strong words were heard.


    Old Hong didnt appreciate that.SinceI didnt yield, hestartedto attack me one more time.


    As long as I had the Sirius Whip in my hand, he wouldnte near me. Moreover, I had experience in dealing with otherworldly items. I proactively attacked Old Hong.


    The old man was attacking me unceasingly, but hedidn''t have anadvantageoverme. I tried to keep calm.


    Hepulledback and forth with me for a long time anditdidnt look like he wanted to run away. The Sirius Whip had tremendous attacking poweroverotherworldly items, and most of the spirits would run after only one hit. However,Old Hong was different. He was tough enough tofightme.


    Anyway, I couldsh the Sirius Whip seven times. Now, I had only twoattacksleft. My heart sank. It wasnt easy to deal with this man.


    Before Old Hong could take action, I wielded andshed the Sirius Whip, which tore through the windand aimedat his head. As long as I could hit him, I would be able to force the spirit to leave Old Hongs body. If that happened,I would have enough time to recover.


    Unexpectedly, Old Hong suddenly took a step back in the middle ofourequal fight. He stood still and looked at me coldly, smirking from the corners of his mouth.


    I was shockedandcouldnt believe that he had read my mind beforehand. He was showing me that he wouldnt hesitate toleave Old Hongs bodyif necessary.


    Old Hong was senile and was being possessed, whichresulted in great damage to his soul. If my whip hit his head, even if he didnt die,he would be greatly injured.


    The Sirius Whip was not even ten centimeters away from Old Hong.I panicked andflicked my wrist todivergethe whip. Itbrushed pasthis ear.


    Before I couldheave a sigh of relief, Old Hong hit my waist, his facesinister.


    As I hadforcefullystoppedmy attack, my bodyleanedaside. When he attacked me all of a sudden, I heard a crackle at my waist. Then, I lost my bnce and fell.


    I spurted bloodand watchedOld Hongwalktoward me. The bottom of his eyes sparkled. My right hand supported me as I moved backward.


    I looked like I was crawling backward in fear, butI was secretly making hand seals. At the critical moment, I would use theBigDipper Sirius Spell to attack himonst time. I had decided to riskmy life to fighthim!


    That spiritwasecstatic abouthis victory. He didnt recognize the small movements of my hand. He stopped when he was around one meter away from me.


    He looked at me and yelled, Youre the little thief those Qing monsters sent here. Youve interfered with my great career. Even if you die, you cantpensate for that!


    Then, he raised his handandmaliciously aimedat my head. I calcted the distance and swiftly wielded my arm. I was about to attack him. If this hit could reach the target, thespirits foundation would be damaged.


    Father!


    Before I could move, a figure stormed toward us and stood in front of me.


    It was Hong Tianbao. I didnt know when he hade here.


    Hong Tianbao had red eyesand shoutedat the old man. If you want to kill, just kill your son first!


    Old Hong started to wiggle. His hands clutched his headand heslowlysquatted. After a long time, he lifted his head again. Hiseyes were strangely dull. He looked as though he didnt know what had just happened.


    Hong Tianbao took out his phone. I didnt know what he was showing to Old Hong, but after Old Hong looked at it, he opened his eyes wideand looked in disbelief.


    Hong Tianbao didnt care much about Old Hongs reaction. He turned to me and helped me get up. He quickly checked if I was hurt then turned to Old Hong again.


    At thismoment, Old Hong was shocked, and his eyes looked dispirited. I craned my neck to look at the phone screen. Hong Tianbao had recorded the fight between me and Old Hong.


    I had to admire Hong Tianbao for his meticulous character. As long as Old Hong knew what he had done andthe condition of hisbody, I was certain that he would cooperate with us.


    However, it was strange that after watching the video, Old Hong didnt utter a word no matter what Hong Tianbao told him. He stood nklyand lookedintothefar distance.


    Left with no choice, Hong Tianbao had to put Old Hong on his backand walkhome. I looked at the sky and recognized thatit was almostthe break of dawn. Wehad struggledfor a long time.


    When we got home, Hong Tianjiang was worriedly waiting for us at the gate. When he saw us back, he heaved a sigh of relief. The two brotherscarried the sleeping Old Hong to his room and tucked him in. Then, they found medicinal herbal alcohol for me to clean my wound.


    I was a little embarrassed. They had invited a hotshotlike meto help themand I got hurtin my first encounter with the spirit. I awkwardly told them that I was alright and excused myself to get some rest.


    I woke up at noon. Hong Tianjiang had prepared a table of food for me. As soon as Isat down,Old Hong came out of the room. He strokedhis beard androlledhis eyes.


    He picked up his chopsticks and knocked themagainstthe bowl, whichcreated a loudnging sound. At the same time, he looked so angry. He fumed, You two little kiddos! Why didnt you lock me until I died in that damn room?


    Hong Tianbao knew his father had changed again. Immediately, he reminded the old man of the video he had shotst night. Unexpectedly, Old Hong became even angrier. What the heck?Didnt I sleepin my room the whole night? Whats that damn video youre talkingabout? I dont know about any of that crap.


    I sighed. It was really hard to get tothepointandcreate a way out. Old Hong bluntly denied everything!


    Hong Tianbao recognized the seriousness ofthesituation. Hetook outhis phoneand attemptedto show the video he had recordedst night to Old Hong. However, it was even stranger that the video was unknowingly deleted He didnt know when it was deleted.


    Old Hong became bold and scolded his sons again. Itwasuseless to raise a son like you! You didnt take care of me when Iwasold, and now youvemarked my name withaghost!


    Hong Tianbao became restless. He came to me and lifted the hem of my shirt. Then, he pointedat my bruised waist. Father, you see?Last night, you hit this brother of mine.


    I felt a little shyand triedto pull my shirtdown. Old Hong snarled again. What a load of bull! Look at his skin. Its as white and smooth as a little girls skin. Wheres the bruise?!


    What?Yesterday, I did get hurt. But when he said that, I remembered my waist wasnt hurting when I woke up.I hurried to find a mirror to check. The bruise on my waist was gone. No mark was left behind!


    It was likenothinghadeverhappened aftera night of rest


    Old Hong was still reprimanding his sons. I exchanged looks with Hong Tianbaoand feltscared.


    The situation hade to an awkward point and we had no evidence. How could we make Old Hong cooperate with us to solve this?


    We finished the tasteless meal in puzzlement. I took the chance to carefully assess Old Hong. He looked older than seventy years old. At first nce, he appeared extremely bold and stubborn. He was wearing a shortandrough fabric shirt and a pair of trousers. He also had a red turban on his head. It was the typical clothing of a farmer.


    However, that red turban felt familiar. I thought I had seen it somewhere before. Isearched throughmy memory for a long timeand concludedthat no one around mehad wornthis sort of turban.


    Unfortunately, Old Hong seemed to know that Iwasassessing him the entire time. He wasnt pleasedand shotme a nce. Hong Tianbao, you should kickthismoney-cheating hoaxer away!


    Oh well, it turned out thatI was not the only one studyingsomeoneduring the meal. He had observed me, too. Moreover, when helearnedwhat I was doing for a living, he looked offended, as if I owed him a lot of money.


    I turned my headto the side. I was still thinking about studyingthat red turban. It gave me a strange feeling that I couldnt describe. Anyway, that thing felt odd to me.


    As I was connectingOld Hong talking about the Qing monsters and that red turban he was wearing, I suddenlymadea bold assumption.


    However, I needed to take that red turban to verify my assumption.


    Mr. Hong, sirI tried my best to soften my voice andmademyself look nice. Sir, your red turban looks nice. Could I askwhere youboughtit?


    What do you want?Dont you dare take it away from me! Unexpectedly, Old Hongbecameextremelystirred up. His anger arose. He threw the bowls to the groundand thenthe food. Then, he proceeded to his room. I didnt even havethetime to react.


    Hong Tianbao recognized that I had started tosuspectthe red turban his father was wearing. He decided to tell me the history of that red turban.


    It turned out this red turban was the Hong family heirloom. It had been passeddownfor a few generations. However, Hong Tianbao didnt believe it. He thought it was just a tattered turban. How could itbea precious family heirloom?


    Still, Old Hong treasured this red turban alot. He usuallykept it safe in the lowest drawer of his closet. Whenever hewasdrunk with the other fellows in the vige, he would start to brag about this family heirloom.


    However, these days, he had started to take it out and wear it around his forehead without a known reason. Anyway, in this area, when it was hot in thesummertime, people would useatowel to protect theirheadsfrom the heat. Hong Tianbao and Hong Tianjiang didnt see anything wrong with their fathers clothing.


    So hejust started to wearit these days? When I heard that, I felt more certain that the red turban was wreaking havoc here.


    However,Hong Tianbaowasnt convinced.


    I just smiledand said,Well, its easy to check if the red turbaniscreatingthemess in your family. We just need to take it away from your fathers head. If Old Hong turns crazy, itll bepretty clear, right?


    Unfortunately, Hong Tianbao shook his head repeatedly. Its difficult.You see, my father loves that red turban a lot. Taking histurban away isno differentfrom taking his lifeaway.


    I felt my headacheafter I heardthis remark. We couldnt just stay idle! This was the only chance we had to make a new turn in this story. I needed to know thedetailsof that red turban to know wheretostart!

 Chapter 534: Taiping Heavenly Kingdom

    Chapter 534: Taiping Heavenly Kingdom


    No matter what, Hong Tianbao didnt agree to use strong forceagainst hisfather.Being leftwith no choice, we had to take turnswatchingOld Hong throughthe nights to preventhimfrom running away.


    Unexpectedly, Old Hongdidnt leave the house for a few days.At night, he wouldtormentthe three of us, so wewere mentallyexhausted.


    I didnt dare to rx this time. From the previous fight, I could tell that thespirits IQ wasnt low. Perhapshe was trying to wear us outand find the right opportunity to escape.


    Anyway, I couldnt endure staying up so many nights in a row. Tonightwas my turn to watch Old Hong. After a while, I became tired and sleepy. I slowly closed my eyes.


    Drowsily, I thought I heard someone talking. The voice was so close to me that every time that person spoke, the moisture from their mouthreachedmy face. It felt cold and damp, which wasntfortable at all.


    I thought Hong Tianbao and his brother were talking. Instinctively, I waved at the source of the noiseand signaled atthem to move away from me and not to disturb my rest.I extended my hand but didnt touch anything. Nobody was standingor sitting near me.


    I got up immediately. I looked around and saw Hong Tianbao and his brother sleeping on the floorofthe living room. I tensed upand turnedto check Old Hongs room.Thedoor to his room wasopen.


    I rushed there to check; no one was inside. I ran out of the house to see. No one was in the yard, either.


    While I was thinking where Old Hong couldhave gone, a red me illuminated the night sky.


    Ohshoot, that old manwentto burn peoples houses again


    It was all I could think about.Then, I eleratedand ranat my maximum speed toward the me.


    When I reached that ce, I saw many people surrounding the mes. Hong Tianbao and his brotherranafter me.By lookingat theirembarrassed attitude, I knew they had the same thoughtsasme. Old Hongcould haveset this fire.


    The vigers carried water from their houses to put out the fire. The owner of the house was sitting on the ground. He was screamingthat half of his lifes savings were gone


    It took them an hour to put out the big fire. Although no onewashurt, the house was burned down.


    I carefully searched through the crowdbutdidnt see Old Hong. In other words, after he set the fire, hehad runaway. I was afraid that he would do some more damage, so I called Hong Tianbaoand askedhim to go to the field to check.


    Later on, Hong Tianbao took me back to his home. Since it was almost dawn, Old Hong would havereturnedhome already. The otherworldly item wouldnt go out during the day.


    Indeed, when wereturnedtohishouse, we sawthatOld Hongs door was closed. It was obvious that hehad returnedand slept.


    I pushed the door, but it was locked from the inside. Iknocked severaltimes. No one came toopenthe door.


    Arson was a serious crime. I exchanged looks with Hong Tianbao. Right after that, I kicked the door with all of my strength.


    It was goodthatthe wooden doors in the countryside werent really tough. I had easily kicked it open. I spotted Old Hong immediately. He looked shockedto seeI hadkickedhis door open.Hegazed at me withhis opaque eyes. A momentter, he finally pulled himself together. He pointed at my noseand scoldedloudly.You prick! What are you doing?!


    I didnt have time to listen to his nonsenseand saidcoldly,Did you setthat house onfire?


    It wasnt beyond my estimation that he didnt have any impression of what he had done. I had to exert my effort to exin to him that he was possibly controlled by an otherworldly item. And, that the otherworldly item that had controlled him wasthered turban.


    Old Hong didnt believe me. When he heard that I intended to do something with his red turban, he immediately protected his head and screamed, You want my red turban? Youllhave to walkonmydead bodyfirst!


    Hmph, people who be rich inhumanly should be burned to death!


    I then heard a cold voice in my ears, butit didnte from Old Hong.Hong Tianbao was smoking quietly nearby, so it wasnt him, either.


    Could it be thatOld Hong had set that house on fire because the house owner had done something inhuman orbecamerich from fraud?


    I was surprised.Thisold man had repeatedly mentionedsomefamily and healso talked abouteradicating the Qing monsters. Atthis moment, I seemed tounderstand theorigin of the otherworldly item.


    I pulled Hong Tianbaoand askedhim to use the iron chain totemporarilytie and lock Old Hong in his room.


    Hong Tianbao knew that his father wasnt himself. No matter how loud and filthy Old Hongscreamedat his face, he kept an indifferent attitude and locked him up.


    Fortunately, nobodyknewthat Old Hong had set that house on fire. We didnt need to worry about the policingto our door. Not long after that, Hong Tianjiang came home. He slumped on the chair and sighed when he saw his father tied up.


    Sincethe two brothers were home, I told them about my assumption.


    I had a feeling thatthe Hongfamilyhadartionship with Hong Xiuquan, the leader of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom movement.We were in Jintian Vige, the location of theTaiping Heavenly Kingdom uprising.


    During thete years of the Qing Dynasty, the imperial courtstopped doing its workand the people were unbearably tortured by the corrupted officials. They couldnt endure it anymore. At that time, a farmer called Hong Xiuquan stood up. He called the people to join Christianity from the West.He said that peopleshould worship God. Together, they would destroy the Qing monsters. With the helpofYang Xiuqing, Feng Yunshan, and Xiao Chaogui, the Jintian Uprising seeded.


    Hong Xiuquan established a new nation called the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, which advocated to beat the local tyrants and re-divide the fields. He proimed himself as the Heavenly King. The Taiping Heavenly Kingdom movement soon spread to the entire country.All theTaiping soldiers wore redturbans. They thought if they did that, God would protect them and that no mortal weapons could harm them.


    Countless Taiping soldiersfell, but they were reced by the new waves of soldiers. Thepeople of the great Qing Dynasty were frightened. They had lost a lot ofnd to the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. However, the tremendous Taiping Heavenly Kingdom movement eventually faileddue tointernal and external troubles. The Qing Dynasty chopped Hong Xiuquan into pieces and put his remains intoacannon. They shot the cannon to set anexample of punishment to the rebels.


    I thought that Hong Xiuquan didnt want to ept his failure. A wisp of his soul had dwelled inthered turbanand waswaiting for a chance to resurface!


    Of course, the two brothersdidntbelievemy assumption.


    Hongtian Baosaid,Most of the people in this Jintian Vige are the descendants of the rebellious soldiers. If it happenedasyou said, whydidn''t ithappen toother familiesin this vige? Why did it happen tomy family?


    I said nothing but was persistent with my guess since it was the only reliableoneI had until now.


    Hong Xiuquanwasthe King of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. It was normal that he didnt want to ept his failure. At that time, the Taiping HeavenlyKingdommovement had imed half of the country. Hong Xiuquan was unwilling to give up this supreme power.


    Anyway, the brothers were stunned by my speech. In the end, theydecided to trust me. If wehadthe correct direction,our next moves weresimple. We needed to make Hong Xiuquan ept the fact that his Taiping Heavenly Kingdom was gone. We would need to reythe wayhis rebellious force was defeated.


    However, to ensure nothingwould gowrong, I decided to make everything clear. I told the brothers to find a n to get the red turban. I needed to check the red turban to see if that spirit was the Heavenly King, Hong Xiuquan.


    However, for a few days in a row, wedidnt havea chance to take action. Although Old Hong was tied up,whenever we wentnear him, he would scream and struggle hard.


    The situation was beyond my estimation. I originally thought it was simr to other otherworldly items. Butfrom the current situation, I guessed this otherworldly itemwas very strong. Its purpose was probably to restore the ancient kingdom!


    Old Hong had been locked up for three days. Hong Tianbao served him well every day, butsince Old Hong always tried tochase him away, the burlyandfatty manweptsometimes.


    Iwassad for him. Itfelt as if asharp thornwas growingin my heart.


    Old Hong didnt cooperate with us, so my investigation had encountered aroadblock. I leaned against the wand thought aboutwhatstrategy I should useto get that red turban.


    Old Hong was strangely guarded against me. Last time, Hong Tianbao and I had broken his door.I guessed that the incidentmust havegiven him some trauma.


    If the other party had been a little boy, I could have directly taken action. Unfortunately, he was ankyandsenile old man. If I forcefully took action, I would provoke the spirit in his bodyand maybe even causeOld Hongs death.


    Jiulin, brother. Hong Tianbao came to me. He leanedagainstthe wall next to me and slowlysatdown. His image in mymindhadgonefrom a jade trading businessman to a small business boss who had just gone bankrupt. He looked dispirited.


    Duringthese pastfifteen days, he was the one that had to bear the mental pressure and strain the most.


    I looked at him and didnt know what to say tofort him. The current situation wasnt positive. I could only pat his shoulder to calm him. Brother, dont worry. We can solve this.


    He gave me a nod and puffed his smoke deeply. Then, he rubbed his face. He looked better afterward.


    After tryingtosmile, he said, Brother Jiulin,Im a straightforward person, sojust tell me the truth. Isthe current situationvery troublesome?


    Yeah,this isrtively hard to solve! Ive been watching your father these days. Hismindhas beenaffected. Moreover, hes really old. Ifthings continuelike this, his bodywont be able tobear the consequences. I told him what wasworryingme.


    After listening to me, Hong Tianbao put out his cigarette. Three days. Give me three days! I promise you I will take the red turban off his head and give it to you.


    Then, he seemed tohave madeup his mind on something very important. In my eyes, his footsteps became heavier. I didnt know what method he would use to get the red turban, but I was sure it wasnt a good method.


    Except forhandingmeals, Old Hong wouldnt let anybody approach him. If Hong Tianbao hadeptedthis tough task, Iknew that I shouldprepare thenecessary items!


    I carriedspirit talismans and refined salt with meat all times.Moreover, in a countryside vige like this,there were plenty ofgranr foods. I could always get them at the critical moment.


    However, I still needed one thing. I needed a top-Yang attribute item to activate the Heavenly Dipper Formation. Mostotherworldlyspirits wouldnt dare to enter the Heavenly Dipper Formation. But if thespiritwas really Hong Xiuquan, he wouldnt be afraid of my formation. I needed anotherpirto supportmy Heavenly Dipper formation!


    If the otherworldly item had chosen Old Hong, Old Hong would be in danger. I needed to use the extrapirto protect him.


    Since I couldnt leave this ce and the Hong brothers didnt want other people to know that his father was in grave trouble, I had to call Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi was as despicable as usual. Hey man, I know you cant live without me!


    Iughed and scoffed. Then, Ibriefed him about the situation. Within three days, you must bring the purple y teapotI gosttime to Jintian Vige.


    When he heard my stern voice, he stopped teasing me. I promise that before the sun sets tomorrow, you will see me.


    After hanging up the call, I couldnt help but smile to myself. I thoughtthat my buddy over there was still useful.


    AfterI had preparedeverything, I returned to my roomand tooka nap.I was wornout. OnceLi Mazi came and I got the red turban,it would bethe critical moment.


    Ihadto put myself in the best fighting mode beforehis arrival!

 Chapter 535: The Pain of the Heavenly King

    Chapter 535: The Pain of the Heavenly King


    Having sleptfor the whole day, I hadstrange dreams. I dreamtof myself wearingtattered clothes. I waspeting against stray dogsfor food. I dreamt of myself standing atop a mountain with myhand in the air.After a wave of my hand, the picture of imposing battlefields appeared. I saw myself wearing an imperial robe. I wassitting on the Dragon Throne inside avishly decorated imperial hall. In another dream, I saw myself drinking poison. Outside the city wall, peoples uproar shook the sky. When I died, I didnt close my eyes


    Mymindtold me that these were the old stories of the spirit. He wanted to use these images to affect meand makeme feel touched so that I would be on his side.


    After thinkingabout the scenes I had just dreamed about, I felt upset.


    My dreams were the unfolding picture of Hong Xiuquans entire life. In 1864, the three major armies of the Qing DynastyconqueredNanjing, the capital of Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. Hong Xiuquan died in his Heavenly King Mansion. The cause of his death was unknown.


    From what Isawin my dream, he drank poison to kill himself. I guessed he wasnt willing to see the kingdomhalf of the nation that he had exerted a lot of effort to imvanish.


    Butthat wasntthe reason he set peoples houses on fire!


    It was normalfordynastiesto change. It was inevitable that the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom would eventuallybe brought to its downfall. More than one hundred years had passed.How could he restore his kingdom now?


    When I finally pulled myself together, the pressure disappeared. I got up from my half-asleep, half-awakestate. As soon as I woke up, I saw Old Hong standing next to me. He was looming overand looking at me with his dark face. His hands were still tied with an iron chain.


    I got up immediatelyand grabbedthe Sirius Whip.


    It was nowonder I had that strange dream.He hade to trouble my sleep!I felt scared. If he had attached to measIslept, I would havelikely died. With this thought, myback became dampwith sweat.


    Unexpectedly, while I was so tense,heacted as if he wasmyfriend. He satnext to me.


    Then, he began to talk as though he was talking to himself. We were just a bunch of farmers. If we werentforced, whywould we rebel hoes and shovels as weapons? We couldnt help it. We couldnt put up with it anymore. Thats when wecame up withthe idea of a rebellion. Afterward, we couldnt stop it. I was with Yang Xiuqing and the other brothers that nurtured the samedream. Together, we brought the enormous army of farmersand headedNorth. The corrupted Qing army wasnt our equal opponent. Soon, we got Nanjing. When we made it the capital, wehelda three-day party tocelebrate.


    He continued,I was their King! I provided the citizens of the Heavenly Kingdom with equaltreatment. They were well-fed, and they wore warm clothes. Why, why did my army copseafter a dozen years? When the Qing army besieged Nanjing, I knew I would be defeated. We were just a group of scattering sand grains that gathered to fill our stomachs. However, after we got what wedreamtof, we lost our goal. We began to indulge ourselves in pleasure. We had a pool of wine and a forest of meat. Each of us had so many women. We hadnt overthrown the Qing Dynasty. Wehad created another Qing!Why did our original dreamturninto that? Ididnt dare toface my failure. I chose death instead ofwatchingthe government I had established getdismissed. I wasnt resigned to it! I wasnt resigned to it!


    When he came to this, Old Hongs eyes glowed with a red light. I grabbed the Sirius Whipand gulpedmy saliva.Would heturn into a frenzyin the next moment?


    I hurried tofort him. Welivein the modern world now. It is theworld that youdreamed about.Justice is carried out. Everybody is well-fed and wears warm clothes.


    He sneered when he heard that. Really? But it wasnt made by me! I didnt establish all ofthis!


    I got it immediately. His desire for power got the best of him. He was telling liesabout doingeverything for the people to have a better life.


    Old Hong touched the red turban on his forehead in a provoking way. Im warning you. You shouldnt offend the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom!


    Then, he turned and left.


    I slumped on my back. I was still scareddue tothe fight I had with him recently, andI didnt haveanitem that could help me defeat him.


    The strange thing was, we were loud enough to alert Hong Tianbao and his brother. But theynever showedup. Itwasnt logical.


    No,something waswrong. Old Hongs roomwaslocked up. Howdidhe get out? I ran out of the room. At first nce, I waspletely baffled.


    ThatcewasntOld Hongs house! Itwasa graveyard!


    I turned around to check. The ce where I had just slept was a tombstone that had copsed.


    I felt a chillrundown my spine. Was this anillusionscene Old Hong fabricated? Or didhe havethe powertobring me to this ce without waking me up?


    I hurried to bite my middle finger and smeared the blood onto myeyelids. I looked around but my surroundings didnt change


    In other words, I was in a real graveyard! Why did he have to bring me here? He knew this sort of graveyardwouldnt bea threat to me.


    If he didnt want to harm me, why did he bring me here? I remembered what he told me He said he was the one thatestablished thisce.It seemedhe wanted to remove mefrom the picture as I was anuglythornin his eyes.


    Did he know what I was about to do?


    Hong Tianbao and his brother must be in dangerat thismoment. I didnt have time to think that much. I navigated my way then rushed away.


    When I reached the vige, everything looked normal except for the Hong familys house. Dark air reached the sky. However, the dark air lookedas though it hadshifted between expanding and lingering above the house.


    I dashed to the house. I saw Old Hong. He had red eyes, anddark airwindedaround him. Hong Tianbao and Hong Tianjiang had knives ced at their throats.


    The two men were threatening Old Hong, asking him totakeoff his red turban. Otherwise,they would kill themselves right in front of him.


    Now I understood why the dark airwaslingering in the air.


    Although Old Hong was being controlled, he was Hong Tianbao and Hong Tianjiangs father. Hong Tianbao had a cut on his neck already. I guessed he did that to put more pressure on Old Hong.


    Hong Tianbao told me that he would get the red turban within three days. I guessed this was hisst resort.


    I was shocked. What they were doing was dangerous. We didnt know how long Old Hong could keep his sane mind.


    Get lost!


    Indeed, as soon as Old Hong knew that his sons wanted to take his red turban, he was enraged.The darkair thatarose from him then expandedand coveredHong Tianbao and his brother altogether.


    In this urgent situation, I didnt have time to wait for Li Mazi. I immediately took out the Sirius Whip and used theBigDipper Sirius Spell to attack Old Hong.


    As soon asI read the spell,the entire Sirius Whip glowed inabeautiful silver light. It looked like the real seven stars of the Big Dipper. Wherever the whip passed by, the ck mist vanished.


    Old Hong recognized how intimidating I was. He swiftly controlled Hong Tianbao and his brother.


    Wisps of dark air entered HongTianbao andhis brothers mouths. I knew that if it seeded, the two brothers would be Hong Xiuquans puppets. Iwouldnt be able to deal with the three of themat once.


    I bit the tip of my tongueand spatblood on the Sirius Whip. I seized the chance I still hadtosh Old Hong onest time with thepowerful whip.


    Old Hong panickedwhen he realizedthat I was about to risk allthatIhadwith him. He raised both hands to resist, which made him release Hong Tianbao and Hong Tianjiang.


    I took the chance and swayed my whip. Then, I pulledHong Tianbao toward me. The dark air had already affected him. He looked absent-minded now. I had to press hard on his medial cleft. He then shook his head and got a hold of himself.


    Im going to save your brother and draw your fathers attention. You should find a chance to get the red turban! I quickly muttered to Hong Tianbao.


    He gave me a confirming nod. I turned to face Old Hong. Old Hongughed sinisterly. He grabbed Hong Tianjiang againand hurledthe man toward me.


    At this critical moment, I had toy hard. I rolled away and got up swiftly. Ididnt show mercyas Icoiled the Sirius Whip around Old Hongs neck.


    Old Hongdidnt expectthat I would ignore Hong Tianjiang. He wasnt cautious enough. Igot him at that moment.


    The Sirius Whip hit his be, andI saw a dark shadowflyaway from him. Old Hong shivered then slumped on the ground unconsciously. Hong Tianbao took the chance and got the red turban. He handedthe item to me.


    I was thrilled. After waking up Hong Tianjiang, Istucka few medium-level spirit talismans on the red turban.


    Withoutahost, the otherworldly items fighting power dropped sharply. Moreover, the spiritwashit hard by my Sirius Whip. It wouldnt have enough power to break the talismans.


    The three of us heaved sighs of relief. We had been ying this chess match for a few days in a row. And now, wehad reacheda point to break through the bottleneck.


    When Old Hong woke up, he didnt haveastrong reaction to his missing red turban. It seemed it was the ghost of Hong Xiuquanthathad made him consider the red turban as important as his life.


    As the old man was affected by the spirit, I went out to pick some herbs and madeaconcoction to replenish him. At the same time, I asked him about the origin of the red turban.


    Surprisingly,this was reallyHong Xiuquansturban!


    The legend said that when Hong Xiuquan drank poison toendhis life, he spat blood on this red turban and handed the turban to his subordinate, who was Old Hongs ancestor. He had one final wish, which was that they continue to fight against the Qing imperial court.


    Thebloodstainson the red turban helped Hong Xiuquans ghost stay in this turban. Moreover, he used Old Hongs body to nurture his iplete soul.It was toobad for him that I foiled his n before he couldseed.


    When Li Mazi arrived, I told himthat the case was over.OnceOld Hong recovered, we would leave.


    But when I thought everythinghadfinallye to an end It turned out I was wrong.It was just the beginning!

 Chapter 536: The Unimaginable Real Culprit

    Chapter 536: The Unimaginable Real Culprit


    Some people in the vige started to have the sameproblem. Their symptoms were like that of Old Hong. After midnight, they would run away from home andvowsomething. Then, theywould startto burn the homes of rich people.


    At first, there was only one person affected. Gradually,the number increased.Thiswas the real purpose of the spirit!


    This group of people hated evildoersas their archenemies. They even went to the rich housesand robbed themin daylight!Itwas no use to report to the police because they didnt remember what had happened to them or what they had done. The policewerehelpless.


    Old Hongs family members sighed and were worried. Of course, they knew what wascausingtrouble to the vigers.


    Brother Jiulin,wasntthat thing destroyed? asked Hong Tianbao gloomily.


    I didnt know how to answer him. The otherworldly item was imprisoned by my talismans. In theory, such incidents shouldnt happen.


    Li Mazi saw our glum facesandhalf-joked with us. Perhapstheghost of Hong Xiuquan deceived us


    After listeningto Li Mazi, I carefully reyed the incidents in my head. I knew I had underestimated Hong Xiuquan. I had hit him several times andnothing hadhappened to him, so how could myst attack expel him so easily?


    He had fooled me!


    He knew I hada way of dealingwith him. Even if hetchedontoOld Hong, hecouldntdo anything. As such,hepretended to be defeated and let me get the red turban.


    Wewould thinkthat the case was solved andlet our guard down.Thiswould give him time to replenish hissoul, making iteasier for him to find a body to possesster!


    We could say that he had seeded. Those people had lost their minds and started to burn houses and rob people. Hong Xiuquan had taken one step back to advance evenfurther!


    I suddenly jolted up. Hong Tianbao and Li Mazi were startled. They thoughtthat I was possessed, too.


    I didnt talk to them but entered the house. Istarted to recall everythingthat happened inthe past half month.


    At nightfall, Hong Tianbao suddenly called meand toldme that he needed to discuss something with me. He brought me out of the houseand wentto a deserted area. There was no one else but us here.


    There was something wrong with Hong Tianbao. Discreetly, I put up my guard.


    Jiulin, brother!Hong Tianbao lit up a cigaretteand puffedtwice.


    I noddedand signaled athim to continue. He fumed a ring of smoke. Histone was heavy and worried. Ididnt want to tell youthisbut since it haseto this point, Im afraid that if I dont tell you, it will be a real disaster


    Hong Tianbaowas keepinga secret from me allthistime!


    I was a little angry but anger couldnt help me with anything now. Do tell me


    It turned out thatOld Hong had a grudge againsteveryfamily in Jintian Vige!


    Hong Tianbao was doing jade business in another province, so he didnte home very often. Hong Tianjiang was a simple,middle-aged manthathadnt married. Old Hong workedin their fields all the time. In this vige, their family was at a disadvantage.


    The other vigers thought that Hong Tianbao was richdue tohis business, so they wanted to take advantageofthis family. Old Hong was enraged. He quarreled and fought with the others in the fields. Hong Tianjiangcame intime to stop them, so no one was harmed.


    Unexpectedly,as soon asOld Hong smoothened his anger the next day, he found that all hiscropswereburned down!


    Many people were presentatthefight. Old Hong didnt knowwho did thatto his family. Thatwaswhy he had kept a grudge against all of them. Old Hong had called Hong Tianbao to tell him about this. However, Hong Tianbao thought that it was just a trivial grudge.


    Afterward, Old Hong put on the red turban and the strangeincidents started.


    I opened my eyes wide in shock. Did Old Hong have a deal with that otherworldly item? Could it be that helet the otherworldly item control his body to help it fulfill something and that the otherworldly itemwas going tohelp him take revenge? Was that whysome houseswereburned?


    If so, everythingmade sense. Old Hong didnt forget anything, and the video wasnt deleted unknowingly. He remembered everything!


    It was nowonder he had tried his best to protect the red turban. It wasnt his family heirloom! He was afraid that Iwould findout!


    But then, there was one thing Iwasnt clear aboutIfthats the case, why did he tell me about the origin of the red turban?


    Hong Tianbao shook his head. I dont know. Perhaps, my father felt guilty. He has been an honest farmer for his whole life. He has never harmed anybody proactively.


    Thatwaswhy they wanted to keep me here in case something horrible happened.


    Oh, theres one more thing. The red turban youhaveis a fake one. Hong Tianbao threw me a heavier bomb.


    What the heck? Fake? I had risked my life to get a fake red turban?


    Hong Tianbaosaid,Ive seen the red turban my father said was our family heirloom. Its old, so the color cant be that bright. Moreover, it has abloodstainthat looks like a flower. The turban youhavehas a bright colorand is prettyclean.That day, I panickedanddidnt pay attention to these details. Until these twopastdays, when the incidentsstarted to happenagain, I recognized that itwasntthe right red turban.


    I took a deep breath. If that turban is fake, where is the real one? I didnt see your fatherwearred turbans.


    I dont know. I decided to tell you this because I can see that things are getting worse. I dont want to live with this secret as it will trouble me for the rest of my life.BrotherJiulin, we have to count on you now. Whether that red turban is fake or not,awisp of the real ghost is there! Ive been with you for a while, and I now know that the iplete spirit will be weaker without that wisp of soul. Hong Tianbao was smart and hehadthe right analysis.


    I sighed. Its no use. We dont know where that spirit is hiding. From the current incidents in the vige, I know the spirit is weakened, but its still very powerful.


    I patted Hong Tianbaos shoulderand askedhim not toworry too much. Ive epted this case, so I will try my best. I dont want to see our good fellows be evildue toa spirit.


    Hong Tianbao heaved a sigh of relief.At thismoment, Hong Tianjiang rushed from a fardistance. He was lookingfor me.


    I exchanged smiles with Hong Tianbaoand thoughtthat Hong Tianjiang had alsorealized thatsomethingwaswrong and wanted to tell me the truth.Unexpectedly, Hong Tianjiang didnt say anything about that. Bad thingshavehappened to a family in the vige. You should go and see yourself.


    Of course, I didntrefuse. Hong Tianbao went home to take care of Old Hong while Ileft with Hong Tianjiangtothat family.


    It was the Li family livingatthe end of the vige. There was a long distance between the Hong familys houseand Li''shouse. Along the way, I chatted with Hong Tianjiang. I was amazed that Hong Tianjiang, a simpleandnice farmer who didnt talk much, could be so talkative today. However, his story wasinteresting enough thatI wasnt bored at all.


    I didntcare too much and thoughtthat perhapsit was becauseOld Hong was all right now.He was probably feelingmuch better.


    We had walked for around ten minutesuntil we reachedthe Li familys house. The sky waspletely dark, but there was no light in that house. There was a table set up in the middle of the courtyard with a flickering candle on it.I saw a shadowsitting there by a flickering candle. However, I couldnt see that persons face.


    Dont be scared. Widow Lis husband passed away a long time ago. Her husband leftherwithason. This family is really poor. To support her son to finish his schooling, sheincurred bigdebts. Thats why she doesnt want to turn on the lights when her son isnt home. She wants to save money. You see, sheonlyhasa candle.


    I understood her storyand followedHong Tianjiang into thecourtyard.


    Unexpectedly, after we entered the courtyard, Hong Tianjiang told me that hehadsomething urgent to do and that he needed to leave now. Ithought it wasso strange. Widow Ligot up from behind the glow of the candleand thankedHong Tianjiang. I thoughtWidow Lis attitude towards Hong Tianjiang was really strange. He had just helped her invite me here, and now she was bowing deeply to himand thankinghim with nice words. I looked at her and had a feeling that shewouldeven want to get on her knees


    When she cametome, I realized thatWidow Li was really beautiful. She was around forty years old, hada standard oval face, big eyes, and a small nose.However, herskin wasnt fair, and her eyes didnt have a bright spirit.If it werentforher living conditions,she would be a very charming woman.


    After Hong Tianjiang left,Widow Li suddenly kept silent. I guessed she didnt know what to say. Itookthe initiative. Why didyou want to see me?


    Widow Lihad hesitated for a long moment. She didnt tell me thereason. Please follow me. Youll see.


    I looked into the house.There wasno beam of light around. How could I see anything? WidowLikept asking me to see. I thought it was no use to stay outside, so I entered the house. It was pitch-ck, andI had to take a long moment to adjust. After a while, I could vaguely recognize the things in her house.


    WidowLisfamilywas really poor, justasHong Tianjiang had told me. Therewasamon saying that best described her house  Ahouse that hadnothing except for the four walls. Her house was almost empty. Her kitchen counter was also in the living room. The house was tiny in general, and I smelled the funny smell of mold. However, I checked around and found nothing special. I didnt know what she wanted me to see so Iturned toask her.


    WidowListood by the light of the candleand lookedat me with her beautiful eyes. Half of her face looked perfect,whilethe other half looked like her skin was peeling off. I thought I even saw something wiggling under her skin. This striking contrast scared me. I almost screamed.


    I was bewildered.Then,Widow Li stooped and blew out the candle. At the moment thecandlelightwas gone, she lifted her headand lookedat me. Hereyes were maliciously strange and reluctant.


    In the next moment, the surroundings changed again. Space began to twist. Iplete corpses appeared in my eyes.After lookingat those withered corpses, I knew theyhad beendead for a long time.


    All the corpses had a red turban on their heads Were they the Taiping soldiers?


    But it wasnt logical. The Taiping soldiers in Jintian Vige were a group of rebellious farmers. They werent establishedon rge scale, and they didnt receive many casualties. However, right now, there were at least several hundred spirits around me.


    Holymoly,didHongXiuquan movethe ghosts of Taiping soldiers here? Does he want to create a new ghost army?


    MuahahaRight asI wanted to move, a figure appeared at the end of the troop line. He leisurely took each step. The red turban was on his head.


    Hesmirked. Withthe corpseslyingaround, he looked extremely cold and sinister.


    I was stunned that it was Hong Tianjiang. Theinandinnocent-looking Hong Tianjiang!


    How do you feel now? This is the army Im going to control to recover my kingdom. Hong Tianjiang sounded contended.


    Why is it you? I couldnt ept it. From his tone, I knew he was the hand behind all ofthisright from the beginning.

 Chapter 537: Abnormal Personality

    Chapter 537: Abnormal Personality


    Hong Tianjiangwas ina good mood. He proudlystuck outhis chest,held hishead high,and receivedthe worship from hundreds of ghosts. Then, he exined his story to me.


    Ever since I was a little boy,all of thepeople in this vige have looked down on me Hong Tianjiangs voice was as cold as ice.


    The way he had started his speech told me that he was a man who had grown up with a twisted mentality. He didnt regret anything. After all, he did makea deal with an evilspirit to achieve what he wanted.


    Atthis moment, Hong Tianjiang didnt look as nice as he used to be.He started to talk sternly. Today is a good day!A moment ago, I was so happythatI forgot myself and chatted with you for a while. Its true that when ones happy,theywillbemore talkative.


    Now I understood why Hong Tianjiang had suddenly talked a lot this evening. I didnt doubt him at that time, but I now remembered he tried to drive the topic to power iming many times. I was dull enough to exin a lot of the moral aspectsrted tothis matter.


    At this moment, after thinking about it, I wanted to strangle myself to death. This manwasan honest farmer. Howcouldhe suddenlyhave a desireforpower?


    Hong Tianjiang then started to tell me his storyaboutwhat he had experienced. Hong Tianjiangs mother had passed away when they wereveryyoung. Old Hong brought up his sons alone. Life was hard and he had to struggle a lot to make ends meet. Thatwaswhy the Hong familydidnt have a high position in JintianVige.


    His brother, Hong Tianbao, had arge build. Not many kids dared to bully him. At the same time, Hong Tianjiangwasa skinny kidand he was always nice to people. Naturally, hebecamethe targetofthe bullies inthevige.


    Later on, Hong Tianbaogrew up to bea smart and talented man. Under his brothers glow, Hong Tianjiangbecamemore and more inferior.


    After Hong Tianbao left home to enter the jade business, Hong Tianjiang stayed and worked as a farmer. Hong Tianjiangwasjealous. He thought that his brother had forgotten about him and thathis brotherwould let himstay in this countryside and work as a farmer for the rest of his life.


    Butthatwasnt the most important factor. The most important factor was thatno woman in this vige wantedto marry him. Every time his father wanted to arrange a marriage for him, the vigers denied him. Some even mocked Hong Tianjiang and said that no onewould wantto marry a dummy like him.


    Eventually, evensomeone likeWidow Liwas putonhis list of matches. In the countryside, widows were considered unluckypeople. It was enough to tell howunweeHong Tianjiang was in this vige. However, Hong Tianjiang was even more enragedthatWidow Lirejected him!


    Why?! Shes just a widow. When idmy eyes on her, sheshould haveagreed immediately. How could a widow like her disdain me?


    Hong Tianjiang couldnt control himself. But then, his voice turned intodespicableughter. Well, well, she disdained me, and what happened? She still has to follow me, doesnt she?


    As soon as I heard this, I knew it was the beginning of Hong Tianjiangs evil path. I asked him to tell me more details. He thought that I was interested in his story. He acted like a child sharinghisbest toywitha friend. He told me what hedid, which made me curselikea filthy animal under my breath!


    After beingrejected byWidow Li, he couldnt walk with his head held high in this vige.


    Hecameup with an. It wate atnightand dark enough that people couldnt see things. He broke intoWidow Lis house.Widow Lilivesin a corner far from the main road. Evenif they were loud, peoplewouldnt be able tohear them. Moreover,Widow Lididnt light up her house to save money on utilities. Peopleknew thather house was dark at night.


    You dont know how awesome that feeling was. Hong Tianjiang licked his lipsand smiledhorribly. People were walking outside. She wanted to scream, but she couldnt.I threatened herand told her thatif she screamed and people came, I would tell them that shed seduced me! Oh well, a widow seducingan old bachelor!She has a son, so she hadto keeplivingforhim!


    I clenched my fists.I lookedat Hong Tianjiang, who was standing in front of me, andthoughtabout the fact that Id been eating with him and sleeping at his houses for days.I felt so disgusted.


    He continued his story. I didnt even need to cover her mouth. She didnt dare to scream. You dont know how beautiful and satisfying her face changed while under my body!


    What happened after that? I didnt want to hear him insult a widow. From her recent look, I knewWidow Liwas already a ghost. ButWidow Lididnt protest against him. Why did Hong Tianjiang kill her?


    After that? Hong Tianjiang grinned maliciously as if it was the best memory of his life.After that, except for the times her son came home, Iwentto her house every night. I finally know why every man wants to marry a wife. Oh, you know, that feeling. Tch tch.I dontthink Ill everforget that.


    Hong Tianjiang was sinking in his memories.Widow Liwas a mild and tender woman. Since Hong Tianjiang treated her well, shestopped rejectinghim. She started tothink about marryinghim.


    However,a badincident happenedduringtheweekend.Widow Lis son, who was studying in another city, had a break and decided to go home to surpriseWidow Li. When he saw the mother he had always respected rollinginbed with Hong Tianjiang, his face changed. He didnt enter the houseand returnedto school immediately. Moreover, he strongly disagreedwithhis motherabout marryingHong Tianjiang.


    ToWidow Li, her son was most important to her.Sinceher son didnt liketo seeherwithHong Tianjiang, she started torejectHong Tianjiang.SinceHong Tianjiang had tasted the sweetness, he didnt want to end their rtionship like this.He kept visiting herandwhenWidow Lididnt agree to have an intimate timewith him, he forced her.


    After forcing his secret lover many times, Hong Tianjiangs patience was drained.One time, he was so angry he couldnt control himselfand threwthe candle holderbythe bedsideatWidow Li.Half of her face was burned. She screamed in agony. Hong Tianjiang was afraid that she would alert people. Immediately, he used the nket to muffle her screams. However, after a few minutes,Widow Listopped breathing.


    Sinceit was the first time Hong Tianjiang had killed a person, he wasscared. Fortunately for him,Widow Liwas an introvertandrarely left her house. There was nothing strangeif shedisappearedforafew days. However, papercantwrap fire. The death of widow Li was exposed. Hong Tianjiang was scared. If the people in the vige contacted her son, they would eventually make him a suspect.


    Right at thatmoment, he foundthat thered turban his fatherloved was taking action. Later on, he learned that the red turban in his house was left by the leader of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom movement. Although he wasnt a well-educated man, he had grown up in Jintian Vige. Of course, the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom wasnt an unfamiliar topic to him.


    Theevilspirit started to entice himinto puttingon the red turban. As long as Hong Tianjiang listened to the spirit, it would help him solve all of his problems. Hong Tianjiang wasnt a fool. He knew that if he put it on, the spirit would possess him. Thus, he tried to make his father wearthe redturban instead of him.


    Indeed, not even two days after Old Hongworethe red turban on his head, bad things started to happen in the vige. Someone robbed the houses and somehomeswere burned unknowingly. Since people were in trouble, theywere too preupiedto worry about thewidowsbusiness. They buriedWidow Li. No one remembered to notify her son about her death.


    If they hadntseenmy fatherburn the house,I wouldnt have hadto ask Hong Tianbao toe home Hong Tianjiangs voice was indifferent. It sounded as thoughhe didnt consider Hong Tianbao as his older brother.


    I made hime back just to use his money to muffle their stinky mouths. I didnt expect that he would bring you here.


    Hong Tianjiang wasnt pleased with my presence. Moreover,sincehe was afraid that I would doubt him, hedidntinterfere with me.


    After testing my skills, he knew I wasntthe spiritsequal opponent. He made a nto swapthe red turban and asked his father to cooperate with him to y ashowfor me to see. No matter what, Hong Tianjiang was Old Hongs son. Although he knew his son hadmitted a crime, he wasnt that heartless to ignore him.


    That deal had resulted in Hong Tianjiang paying part of his soul in exchange for his safety.


    I didnt expect that my old manwould changehis mind. He wantedyou tostay Hong Tianjiangs face twisted again. As long as youre gone, this vige will be my kingdom!Let''s see ifany of them dare look down on me!


    Look atWidow Li right now.Hewaved his right hand.Widow Liobediently walked to him. Her face had returned to normal. She stood and served beside Hong Tianjiang. Hong Tianjiang contentedly pulled and huggedWidow Li. He talkedto me. See? EventhoughIvekilled her, she has to respect me and worship me!


    I sneeredand scoldedHong Tianjiang, who had considered himself a supreme being. You deserve to be disdained!


    How could anybodyy their eyes on ascumbag like him? He hated that peoplelooked down onhim. He loathedHong Tianbao and envied his sess. But theygrewup in the same family, and people respected Hong Tianbaobut nothim. Didnt he think about that?


    Itprovedthat Hong Tianjiang hadaproblem. And now, he didnt feel sorry or guilty after he hamittedmany crimes. He waseven lower thananimals. He was totally pleased with hisdespicableachievements.What a big scumbag he was!


    Hong Tianjiangs face changed. He pushedWidow Liasideand gotup. I know you have some skills, butJintian Vige is my kingdom.Now, Im goingto ask my people to kill you!


    Then, he made a gesture. The ghosts of the Taiping soldiersfollowed his orderand swarmedtoward me. I gave him a disdainful smile. How could theserandomghosts be my equal opponents?


    I didnt say anythingandshedmy Sirius Whip. Any ghosts the Sirius Whip touched would turn into smoke and vanish. Hong Tianjiang grimaced. Those were the ghost soldiers that he was so proud of.


    He didnt just watch the fun. He blended in the formation of ghost soldiersand gavethemmands. Under hismand, the ghost soldiers slowly broke my defense.


    However,atthis moment, I didnt dare to use my blood.IfI was worn out, I would not have enough strength to deal with that filthy animal,Hong Tianjiang!


    I tried to pull back and forth with them inhopesthat Hong Tianbao would bring Li Mazi here to help meoncehe realized that I had been away for too long. The magic power of the Sirius Whip was thinning out. Meanwhile,the ghost soldiers were rolling toward me in unceasing waves. Although my Sirius Whiphad turned theminto smoke, under Hong Tianjiangsmand, they slowly gathered and charged forward again. I couldnt get rid of them for now.


    As I was slowlylosing the battle, I started to retreat toward the door. As long as I could get out of here and resist until the morning, Hong Tianjiang wouldnt have any puppets with him. He would be a tiger that had neither fangsnorws. It would be much easier to deal with him then!


    It seemed he had recognized my intention. Hong Tianjiang elerated his control. His ghost soldiers moved faster and faster.At thismoment, I knew my Sirius Whip wouldnt work efficiently. I decided to bite my finger to use the blood and risk my life with Hong Tianjiang. Rightat thismoment, a shadow flew overandtightlyhuggedHong Tianjiang from behind.


    It wasWidow Li! She looked at me. I could see her imploring eyes.


    However, heractionshad enraged Hong Tianjiang. He began to attack her to get rid of her. Her soul became translucent and eventually transparent, butshe still hugged him tightly. She knew that if she kept holding onto him like this, she would perish. Still, she was resolute enough to not let go of him.


    I knew she was taking revenge on him!


    I didnt hesitate anymore. My Sirius Whip directly hit the nearest ghost soldiersand turned theminto smoke. Then, Iranout of the house.


    Hong Tianjiang didnt chase after me. I ranquicklyto the Hong familys house. I knew Hong Tianjiang wouldnt dare to attack me in his house. He was the sort ofmanthat had a big mouth but would onlydosomething stealthy behind peoples backs.


    I went to find Hong Tianbao and told him every detail of the story. I had to do that because I had to capture Hong Tianjiang tomorrow. If Hong Tianbao didnt trust me, he would be a big obstacle to me.


    Hong Tianbao couldnt believe it. He sounded shocked. Brother Jiulin, dont fabricate things. My younger brother has always been a nice and kind man since he was a little boy.He couldnt havemittedso many evilcrimes!


    I knew it was hard for him to ept all of thisat once. However, I tried my best to persuade him. I also told him that his father, Old Hong, knew something. It was thanks to his contributionthat the y they acted out seemedso real.


    Old Hong was sleeping, but Hong Tianbao didnt mind that. He pulled me to confront his father.WhenOld Hongfound outthat Ihad learned abouteverything, he was speechless. He kept silent for quite a long time.


    His silence made Hong Tianbao believe me. If I had fabricated things to insult them,Old Hong would have jumped and shouted at my face. But he hadnt said anything. Hong Tianbao had never thought that his brotherwas behindall of these events. He looked shocked.


    Father, how did you How could you.Hong Tianbaograbbedhis head in pain.

 Chapter 538: The Power of the Umbrella Mantra!

    Chapter 538: The Power of the Umbre Mantra!


    Old Hong was almost eighty years old. He just wanted to leave hisst days in peace. How could he be willing to see his songoto jail?


    I didnt expectthat filthyanimal to do those things! OldHonggrabbed his thighand weptsilently.At thismoment, Hong Tianjiang came home. We all stopped talking. Hong Tianjiang wasnt a fool. As soon as he saw our faces, he knew what we were talking about. He didnt even try to hide anythingand gaveus a cold sneerbeforegoing to his room to rest.


    I knew he wasnt scared.Widow Lihad been dead for a long time, soI guessed Hong Tianjiang had already destroyed the evidence in her house. Moreover, with Hong Xiuquan on his side, he was confident.


    Hong Tianbao was shivering as he was mad at his brother. Old Hong was wiping his tearsand mumblingsomething to himself.


    Iforted themand saidnothing more than that. I wanted to seewhat theirdecisionwould be.Once I took action, Hong Tianjiangs crime wouldno longer beconcealed.Widow Lis son wouldsoonehome and discover his mothers death. At that time, the first suspect would be Hong Tianjiang.


    I patted Hong Tianbaos shoulder. Take your time to consider it. I respect your choice.


    Then, I went to the guest room to rest.


    Li Mazi was sleeping in his bed. I lit up a cigaretteand thoughtaboutasolution.


    As I tookin the smoke, I felt really upset. I wanted to do something, butI also didnt want to hurt Old Hong


    Earlythe nextmorning, Li Mazis callwoke me up. I thought it was something urgent, so I hastily got upand ranto the living room. Then, I learned that Li Mazihad wokenme up to show methenewly hatched chicks.


    Iwent overand patted himto showthat he shouldnt act like a fool. Li Mazi was still happy with his findings. He didnt mind me at andcasually brushed my hand away. He wanted to pick up a puffy chick to y with it.


    However, as soon as he touched the chick, the hen jumped and hostilely pecked his forehead. Li Mazi covered his woundand chasedafter the old hen. All the chickens in the yard flustered and quacked. They jumpedaround.


    Hong Tianbao leaned against the door frameand lookedat me with a painful expression. I didnt see Hong Tianjiang.All of the troubles in this vige were caused by him. I guessed he was outdoing badactivitiesagain.


    Hong Tianbao sighedand said,I hope youwillexpel that evil spirit. Im not sure how to deal withTianjiang.But I hope that after the spirit is destroyed, my brotherwillhave his sanity back.


    I nodded.Thespirithad contributed to turningHong Tianjiang like this.After watchingHong Tianbao,Iwas exhausted mentally and physically.I felt sorry for the manas hehad toshoulderall the burdens. I patted his shoulder againand toldhim to ease his worries.


    After Li Mazi was done ying with the chicks and thehen, he came and took a look at our aggrieved expressions. He pretended as though he understood everything. Isnt it just an otherworldly item? Why are you guys standing here and sighing?


    Li Mazi wasnt the sort of person who could keep secrets. Thatwaswhy Ihadnt toldhim about Hong Tianjiangs case. Li Mazi didnt know that the nature of this case had changed. If it were only Hong Xiuquans ghost, I could just put more effort to subdue him.


    But now, I could tell that Hong Tianjiang and the spirit had be one. If I forcefully expelled and smashed it, I could also destroy Hong Tianjiangs soul.


    Hong Tianbao was standing asideandlistening to me and Li Mazi. Hesaid,Can you protect Hong Tianjiangs life? As long as my brotherdoesntdie, you can do anything!


    I nodded. Yeah, I can.


    Hong Tianbao clenched his jaw. Please take action now.


    That evilspirithad enraged him a lot. Although he wasnt willing to report Hong Tianjiangs crime, he loathed his brothers deeds. He wanted me toteachhima lesson.


    If Hong Tianbao made up his mind, Ididntneedto hesitateanymore. I asked Li Mazi to go back to the room to prepare things with me. We would waitfornightfall!


    Hong Tianjiang always went out at midnight to bewitch the vigers, so itwould beconvenient for us to deal with him then.


    At around midnight, I knew the time hade. I used the Heavenly Dipper Formation to protect Hong Tianbao and Old Hong before releasing Hong Xiuquans ghost.


    As soon as Hong Xiuquan saw us, he knew he couldnt beat us. He screamed and tried to leave. I wouldntgive him that chance! I opened the Yin and Yang Umbre, which then flew up andcast a shadow overhim. As soon as I started to read the Umbre God Mantra, the umbre began to spin faster and faster. Hong Xiuquans tattered soul began fading away, and hisscreeching eventually subsided.


    Right as theghost was about to perish, someone pushed the gate open and walked in.It was Hong Tianjiang. He coldly looked at me with one hand on his head. I noticed that there was a tear on his red turban. It meant theevilspirit was about to disappear.


    Li Mazi was readyand heldthe Sirius Whip. Hehad beenwaiting for Hong Tianjiang there.


    I shot Li Mazi a nceand signaled athimtotake action now. Li Mazi nodded, hisface turning stern. He needed to entangle with Hong Tianjiang to seize more time for me.


    As Ibegan to readthe mantra faster and faster, Hong Tianjiang became more anxiously restless. He didnt say anythingand dashedtoward me. Butbefore he could approach me, Li Mazished the Sirius Whip. Then,the two began to fight.


    Unfortunately, Li Mazi didnt know theBigDipper Sirius Spell. After seven whips, heno longer hadthe upper hand. Eventually, Hong Tianjiang kicked Li Mazi away.Li Maznded on his butt with a low thud. He crouchedand shivered.


    Hong Tianjiang sneered and ran toward me. I had sweat on my foreheadasthecoldwindcameclose. I read the spell faster and instinctively closed my eyes.


    After a long moment, I didnt receive anyhitsfrom Hong Tianjiang. I opened my eyesand sawLi Mazi hugging Hong Tianjiangs thigh. His mouth was bleeding, but he didnt let go. After seeingthis, the me of my courage burned again. I read the spell faster and faster.


    Suddenly, I heard a crackle. It sounded as thoughsomething made of ss had shattered. Hong Xiuquans ghostturnedinto countless piecesand vanishedin the air.


    At the same time, Hong Tianjiangs face froze. WhileLi Mazi was still holding him, hescreeched. I saw more cutsappearon his turban.


    Hurry up! Li Mazi screamedand urgedmeashe felt Hong Tianjiangschange.


    I knew the wisp of soul I had eradicated was just a part of Hong Xiuquans soul. The real,powerful soul was still with Hong Tianjiang. I didnt dare to rx nowand jumpedtoward Hong Tianjiang,stickingseveral talismans on his head.


    I used my blood to drawruneson his face. Hong Tianjiang struggled harder and harder. However, under the power of the talismans andLi Mazis hold,he couldnt escape.


    The talismans workedsoon. Hong Xiuquans soul slowly detached from Hong Tianjiangs body. At first nce,the scenelooked very strange.


    Li Mazi, get in the formation!I said to Li Mazi as I sawHong Xiuquans ghost. Li Mazi let go ofhim,slumping and gaspingfor his breath. Hong Xiuquan smirkedand reached forLi Mazis head.


    WhenLi Mazis life was at stake, hisbody moved like a swamp,smoothlyslitheringinto the Heavenly Dipper Formation. I turned and found that Hong Tianbao had risked his life to pull Li Mazi in at themostcritical moment.


    After seeing thatLi Mazihad escapeddanger, I focused on reading the spell. Hong Tianjiangwas free.He looked at mewithbloodshot eyes.He wanted to kill me. However, he was too weak to threaten me. Hong Tianbao knew that his chance hade. He ran out of the Heavenly Dipper formation andmade the risky decision to pullHong Tianjiang into the formation.


    At thismoment, only Hong Xiuquans ghost and I were standing outside the formation. I felt a little dizzy as I had been chanting the spell. At the same time, Hong Xiuquanlooked vignt after I had erased a wisp of his soul. None of us made the first move.


    After restingfor a while, I suddenly recognized that Hong Xiuquans soul had turned from transparent to translucent. Ididntexpect that hewould recoverthatquickly. I knew that if I kept waiting, I would lose this battle. I immediately bit my middle finger.


    Hong Xiuquan saw that I was about to attack him. Hisface changed. Then, he advancedtoward me.


    However, he was a step toote. Before I bit my finger, I had already opened the Yin and Yang Umbre. It waspart ofmy n. I had calcted that he would storm towardmeatthis moment. I jumped into the Heavenly Dipper Formation and sprinkled the blood from my finger onto the red turban. Ithenused a lighter to burn it.


    As soon as the red turbancaught fire, Hong Xiuquan froze. The soul lookedbaffled. I took the chance and stormed toward him. Then, I puthim under the Yin and Yang Umbre.AsI started to chant the Umbre God Mantra, Hong Xiuquan started to float up.


    It seemed he had recognized that he was disappearing. He screamed and roared.


    I kept chanting the spell,which mademe dizzy again. I had to slow down a bit. Hong Xiuquan sneered when he recognizedthis, and he started to bump into the Yin and Yang Umbre.


    I was using my mental energy to control and support the Yin and Yang Umbre. Whentheevilspirit hitit,I feltas ifa sharp needle was prating my head. I guessed he wanted toperishwith me.


    After thinkingabout this, I didnt want to show mercy anymore. I pulled myself together and continued to read the spell fast. The light from the Yin and Yang symbolwasdazzling, andHong Xiuquan was eventuallypressed onto the ground.


    Before hehadthe chance to get up, the light hit him further. His shadow faded and he eventually disappeared.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. I closed my eyesand lostconsciousness.


    When I woke up, Old Hong was crying. Li Mazi wasforting him.


    I didnt see Hong Tianbao and Hong Tianjiang. Later, Li Mazi told me that Hong Tianbao hadtakenhis brother to the police station to reporthim.


    He hadmitted rapeand murder. I thought that even if Hong Tianjiangwentto the police himself, his sentence wouldnt beany lighter.After seeingOld Hong,I couldnt help but sigh.


    Thiswaslife. Taking a small advantage will eventually lead toreceiving a biggerdisadvantage. If Old Hong and Hong Tianjiangdidnt havethe idea ofusingthe otherworldly item, they wouldnt haveto facethese consequences.


    The red turban, which wassupposedto be my reward, was burned to cinders. Hong Tianbao was a little embarrassed, and he told me that he wanted to repay me with something. I gently denied his offer. Instead, I asked him to supportWidow Lis son until he finished his degree at university.


    Hong Tianbao agreedand hetold me that he would adopt the boy.And he did just that.Moreover, hegaveup his jade business to stay in Jintian Vige to take care of his old father.


    Since Hong Tianbao had good rtionships with the folks in the vige, Old Hong didnt need to live underpeoplesmockinganddespising eyes. It was somewhat a blessing in disguise.

 Chapter 539: Help! Help!

    Chapter 539: Help! Help!


    When I got up, I saw that the sky outside was gray and hazy. I put on more clothesand walkedto the window. Instantly, I felt chilled-to-the-bone.


    Another autumnhade. It became colder and colder day after day. I thought there would be a sharp dropintemperature soon. I rubbed my palm andreluctantlyopened my shop.


    These days, Yin Xinyue was busy, so shedidntspendthenightin the shop. My breakfast was always bought duringthe dinner of the previous night. I just needed to heat it in the morning.


    After breakfast, I heldateapot in my handsandleisurelysaton my chair. I watched thepeoplemoveback and forth outside. I thought I was indulging myself a lot and wished to enjoy my life like this every day.


    WhileI was having a nice dream, Li Mazis voice came from outside. Hestartled me, andI almostfelloff my chair.


    LittleBrother Zhang,bad things have happened!Li Mazi looked panic-stricken.As he talked, he didnt stoplookingoutsidetheshop.


    My good mood wasshattered. I feltannoyed and scoffed athim. Why are you so worried? What happened so early in the morningthat made you likethis?


    Theres a bloody man outside. Right at your door!He said hehadsomething very urgent to tell you and that he needed your help Li Mazi pantedand gaspedfor his breath.


    After listeningto him, I guessed this could be my next business case. I walked out of the antique shop. Not far from mewasaman who wassitting on the sidewalk. He looked pale, and half of hisface was coveredin blood. His clothes were torn and tattered.It looked like he had justescaped a brutal fight.


    After lookingat him, anufortable feeling rose inmy heart. Hey, brother! Brother, wake up!


    He didnt react to my call. I suddenly had a bad feeling about this.I hastilyreached under his nose to check his breathing. Luckily, he was still breathing. I exhaleda deep breath andturned to talk toLi Mazi, wholookeddumbstruck. Call the ambnce! If you linger here, hecoulddie!


    Li Mazi gave me a nod and took out his phone to callthe ambnce. After the ambnce crew took the man into thevehicle, they asked, Whos his guardian?


    Li Mazi was afraid of taking responsibility. He hurried to exin the situation to the crew.We dont know him. We found him unconscious in front of our shop this morning.


    The ambnce crew staff had to call the policeas they were afraid that this man would die inside their ambnce.


    Soon, two policemen came. They were patrolling thestreet and were in charge ofmaintainingorder and security in my neighborhood.The peopleliving in this area knew them well.


    Mr. Zhang, what happened?


    I told him about the situation. They noddedandtook a few photos of thebloodstainson the ground. Then, they followed the ambnce to the hospital.


    I thought that this incident would endhere. However, three dayster,asLi Mazi and I wereabout to closethe shop, the two policemen came again.


    That manhasbeen unconscious for three days. He woke up today. As soon as he woke up, he hurriedly asked to see you, Mr. Zhang. He said he needed your help. Hehassomething very important tosay to you. After talking to me, the policemen took me to the hospital to see that man.


    The man had strips of fabric bandage on his head, whichmade him look like anEgyptian mummy.


    When we entered his patient ward, he was screaming.I want to see Zhang Jiulin! Hurry! I need to see him as soon as possible! Otherwise, more people will die! From his tone and words, I guessed he had encountered somethingfoul.


    I frownedand walkedto his bed. I cleared my throat to get his attention. I am Zhang Jiulin.Didyouget intosome trouble?


    When he sawme, his eyes turned bright. Hecheered upas if he had just grabbedastraw that could save his life. He grabbed my arm and screamed, Master Zhang, hurry! Come save us!


    Friend, dont be stirred up. Calm down, and tell me everything slowly. If I can help you, Im sure I will, I said politely as Ipatted his arm.


    The man finally calmed downand tooka few breaths to stabilize himself. Then, he carefully arranged his words. The story Im going to tell you, I hope to sharewith youonly. We cant let other people know about it.


    I felt a little awkwardand lookedat the two policemen. Theygave me a forced smile then left the ward.


    Li Mazi followed themand politely closedthe door of the room. Im his assistant. Please tell us the story.


    The man hesitated for a while. Eventually, he started to talk. I am Tang Xianzu. I live in Tangjia Vige in Zijin Mountain.Duringrecent years, many tourists havee to our vige. Then, contractors came to exploit ound.Whenthe construction teams came, they used excavators to turn up the soil in our fields. At first, the people in my vige felt happy and thought that thesecontractorswereveryhard-working.However, after a while, we found that except for digging up our fieldsandleaving holes here and there, they didnt do anything else. After a short course of fifteen days, they had dug a few hundred holes in our Tangjia Vige


    BecauseTang Xianzuwashurt, when he became stirred up, he couldntstopcoughing. I had to bring him a ss of water. I asked him to drinkandtalk more slowly.


    Tang Xianzu calmed down and continued the story. Although the vigers all felt the construction teams wereactingstrange, theirnds were requisitioned. They didnt have any right to voice up.


    Around a week ago, some good friends of Tang Xianzu came to himand toldhim that they wanted to go to the field and dig some treasures.


    It turned out that their vige had a special piece ofnd where no de of grass could grow no matter what season it was. Evenduringthe drought season, whenall the other fields were dried and cracked,that piece ofnd stayed the same.


    Tang Xianzu had heard from the elders in his vige thatthatpiece ofnd was verystrange. In olden times, the central government had uniformly allocated the fields to the farmers in this vige. However, anybody who got this piece ofnd couldnt grow anything. When they grewcorn, no sprouts came out of the soil. When they grew rice, thentsall died. The farmers couldnt do anything. Gradually, no one wanted thisnd anymore. It hadturned into a piece of wastnd. Since there was no ownershipofthisnd and was located in a remote corner, the construction teams had missed this spot. The kids in this vige had always listened to the elders, so they neverwentto that ce.


    However, those real estate investors had dug more and more holes in the viges, so they seemed tobesearching for something. Tang Xianzus friends were smart. They guessed that their vigemight have somehidden treasures. Moreover, itcould be buried in that unwanted piece ofnd.


    The friends got together and nned to go there at night time to see what it was.Tang Xianzu didnt want to go with them. However,he was afraid that his friends would tease him for beinga coward. As such, hegatheredhis courage andfollowedthem.


    At the firststepontothat piece ofnd, Tang Xianzu felta chill. He couldnt help but shudder. He was startledby it and insistedthat he go home.


    However, hisfriends told him that itwasnormal that the ce was cold at night time. They threw him a hoeand askedhim to start digging.


    None of them had expected that thatpiece ofndwould havestrangely tough soil, which was as hard as reinforced concrete. When their hoes hit the ground, the coiling force tingled their purlicue.However, it also encouraged theminto thinkingthere was something underneath.


    Tang Xianzu had exerted a lot ofeffortto dig a hole around half a meter deep. He pantedanddecided to sit down and smoke a cigarette to rest.


    But then, rightatthis moment, he suddenly heard his friends scream. Found it! We found it!


    Tang Xianzu hurried to that area. He saw that one of his friends haddone a good job at diggingwith his hoe and duga big holein theground. Something wassparkling inside.


    When he came to thispart of the story, I could confirm that something oddwas inthand. If itwasa real otherworldly item, would I be able to earn a huge sum this time?


    I guessed Li Mazi shared the same thought.Herolled his eyes and urgedTang Xianzu to tell us more details.


    Tang Xianzu nodded and continued,We continued to dig. After a while, we founda sparkling stick.My friends resolutely used their hands to dig the soil around. They wanted to know what that stickwas. However, no matter how hard we pulled, we couldnt take it out. That stick seemed to be growing inside the earth.As such, we decided to take a buffalo there to pull it. Whenit waspletely drawn out, we recognized itwasmore than two meters long, witha shining, pointyend.It wasa spear used byageneralin ancienttimes. Everybody knew thatit wasa valuable antique. My friends hurried to wipe the dust and mud off the spear. They even washed it clean. After cleaning it, we were all surprisedand recognizedthat this spearwasmade of pure silver. The entire spear reflectedcold light!


    When he came to this part, I couldnt help but feel excited. With my experience, I knew this silver spearhad tobe a great treasure! In ancient times, cksmithing skills and techniques werent good at all.Metal objects wereveryexpensive. Normally, the soldiersused spearswith wooden handlesand metal pointy heads. They would never use pure silver to cast a spear. Thepersonthatcoulduse a silver spear like thismust have been anintimidatingly famous general in ancient times.


    Moreover, as far as we knew, because this spear was buried in the ground, that piece ofnd couldnt even grow a single de of grass. It was enough to prove how formidableitsmurderous aurawas! It was able to kill all the living thingsin thatnd.


    After thinking that I was going to gainthissilver spear, the corners of my mouth inadvertently rose.


    However, when Tang Xianzu saw mesmile, he was scared. Is something the matter?


    I then recognized that I was acting awkward.After pullingmyself together, I told him to continue his story.


    Then, Tang Xianzu told me every detail oftheevent. After listening to theplete story, I had to snort to vent my irritation.


    It turned out when these people saw the benefitsandforgot about their friendship. As soon as they saw the silver spear, they all wanted to make it their possession. No one cared about their long-term friendship anymore. However, there was only one silver spear. They discusseditandeventuallyagreed to weigh it and divide it equally.


    They werereallywasting the heavenly treasure!


    I didnt waitforTang Xianzuto finishtalking. I snarled and said. Did you melt that silver spear?


    Oh, we didnt Tang Xianzu shook his head repeatedly. Even though my friends were so excited and happy, I couldnt feel happy at all. I alwayshad a feeling that thesilver spear was evil. I had that feeling because whenever I touched it,achillwas sent tomy heart! It was socold that I thought my bloodhadfrozen for a moment!


    Tang Xianzu was afraid that they wouldend upinahorriblemess. He suggestedburyingthe silver spear backinits ce andtoconsider that nothing had happened that night. However, no matter howhard hetried to persuade them, his friends still insistedon dividingthe silver spear. Tang Xianzu couldnt talk them out of it.Feeling dispirited, he left.


    When he got home, Tang Xianzuwasntable topullhimself together. He had a feeling that somethingbadwould happen. He was flustered and restlessly anxious. When his wife recognized his abnormal behavior, sheaskedhim why.He didnt dare to tell her the truth, so he casually found an excuse tofort her.


    Hecouldnt sleep that night. Every time he closed his eyes, he smelled the scent of bloodthatemittedfrom the silver spear. Eventually, he decided not to sleep. He sat upand leanedagainst thebedrest,yinggameson hisphone.


    He didnt know how long he had been ying when his phone screen cked out. He thought ithad runout of battery, so hewentto charge it.But when he turned around, he saw a man kneeling by his bed!


    Since everything in front of him was pitch-ck, he didnt see that personclearly. He thought it was a thief. Instinctively, he blurted,Who theheckare you? Whyhaveyoue to my house?!


    However, after the scolding, the shadowstartedto cry. At first, that shadows sobbing was low and indistinctive, buthis voice grew louder andclearer as time passed. Eventually, Tang Xianzu was touched. He forgotabout his fears and askedthe shadow,Why are you crying in my house?


    The shadow didnt react oranswer hisquestion. Tang Xianzu went to turn the light on. He then sawashadow kneeling by his bed.It had no physical body! It scared theheckout of him.


    However, he didnt want to scare his wife and kids,sohe tried to suppress his fearsand hold in hisscream. The shadow then got up. Tang Xianzu got a glimpse of a headless man wearing a set of armor. Blood was still drippingfromhis cut neck.


    As the blood started toform a puddle onthe ground, Tang Xianzu smelled a familiar scent. Suddenly, he recognized it was the sameasthe smell he had sniffed when they dug up the silver spear!


    Tang Xianzu was scared outof hiswits. He couldnt help it anymore and let out a scream. Right after that, his wife opened the doorand enteredthe room. She askedhim if he was all right.


    Tang Xianzu got himself together. He turned and looked again, but nothing was there.There was no shadoworpuddle ofblood. He exhaled in relief. Although it could have been a nightmare, he strongly believed that the silver spear wasnt normal. As soon as itbecamebrighter the next morning, he went to find his friends...

 Chapter 540: The Headless Horseman

    Chapter 540: The Headless Horseman


    When Tang Xianzuwentto the house of the friend thattookthe silver spear, he saw that many vigers had gatheredaround. They werepointing at the house. From their faces, he knewsomethinghad happened to his friend!


    Tang Xianzu immediately entered the courtyard. He was surprisedto seeall ofhisfriends who had joined the digging operation yesterday.


    However, they were on all-fours, shovinggrass and wheat earsfromthe ground into their mouths. Their eyes looked nk.Theysometimescraned their necksand neighedlike horses.


    Horse neighing? Ithought it wasa little weird. Those peopleategrass and neighed like horses.The spirit this timeis actuallya horse?


    But if itwasa horse, howcouldwe exin the shadow by Tang Xianzus bed? I wasnt that dumb to think that it was just a nightmare. After considering things, Ithought ofone possibility.The deceased used to be an intimidating person with great talent in martial arts. He fought and died with his horse. When they died, theirspirits were attachedto his weapon. Thatwashowthe current situationcame to be!


    However,thiswas just my assumption. I needed to see the silver spear toreach aconclusion.


    I ponderedthen asked Tang Xianzu to tell me the address of his four friends.SinceTang Xianzu was hurt, he couldnt apany us.


    The other folkshavetied them up. You should go see our Vige Elder. He will support you.Then,Tang Xianzu gave me a phone number. I asked him to stay andfullyrecover in the hospital.


    I took Li Mazi back to my shop. We needed to prepare somethingsbefore going to Tangjia.


    Tangjia Vige was a mountainous vige around seventy or eighty miles away from us. Ithoughtthat wewouldnt be able todrive our car to the vige. However,when we reachedthe vige entrance, we recognized that the mountainous road had been leveled. I knew it was the workof that real estate investor.


    On the way there, I called the Vige Elder. When we reached the vige entrance, he was waiting for us there.


    The Vige Elder was a man around sixty years old. He worea faded white Chinese suit and a pair of rubber boots. Although hehad wrinkles on his face, his eyes were resolute. Hisback was straight, and he looked righteous.


    After a few greetings, Iwentstraight to the topic. Sir, how are thosepeople?


    The Vige Elder lit up a cigarette. After puffing a few times, he started to tell me the story.


    At that time, he gotareport about those unusual young men. He hurried to gather peopletogo there. When he saw them eating grass on the ground, he shouted, What are you doing? Are you sick?


    But they paid no attention to the Vige Elder. They were like stone pirs. No matter how hard the others tried to pull them up, they didnt move an inch. Eventually, the Vige Elder had to call all the strong men in the vige to subdue themandtie them up.


    Those men werewatchedthe entire time.The vigerseven sent someone to spoon-feed them.


    Li Mazi interrupted, But,howdo theyusethe toilet?


    The Vige Elder felt embarrassed. If we untie them, they will be crazy again. We have to let themrelieve themselves intheir pants.


    I felt so awkward. But it was true that this was the safest method.


    After tying them up, the Vige Elderwentto their houses to enquire about their actions. Eventually, helearnedthat these young men had risked their lives andwentto that piece of evilnd!


    Immediately, the Vige Elder dragged those men to the Achievement and Virtual Memorial Arch in the vige. The so-called Achievement and Virtual Memorial Arch was the ancestral hall where the vigers worshipped thosewho hadmade great contributionsto the vige.


    The Vige Elder was old and experienced, so he knew they were being pestered by the foul things from thatnd. He brought them tothememorial arch in hopes that the righteous power of their ancestors couldtemporarilysave their lives. At the same time, he told Tang Xianzu tofindmeand seek myhelp as soon as possible.


    After telling me the story, the Vige Elder asked, Why didnt Tang Xianzureturnwith you?


    He made merealizesomething else. When Tang Xianzu left the vige, he wasnt hurt. When he appeared at my antique shop, he was almost dead. What happened to him?


    To assure the Vige Elder and to know what to do next, I immediately called Tang Xianzu. How did you get your wounds?


    Tang Xianzu stammered. It seemedhe didnt dare to tell me the story.


    My voice grew serious. I request to know the truth! If you dont tell me, your friends will die.There isno doubt about that.The peoplewho livein Tangjia Vigewilso be in danger.


    Umh Tang Xianzu sounded more hesitant. Eventhoughwewere on different ends of the phone line,I couldimaginehimshivering. He didnt dare to tell me. I guessed I shouldnt force him now.Right whenI thoughtaboutendingthe call, he suddenly opened his mouth. Master Zhang, do you believe there are ghosts in this world?


    Ifghosts dont exist,I would be out of business!After receiving confirmation from me, Tang Xianzu took a deep breath. Then, he started to tell me his story.


    Iwentto yourshop the nightbefore, butthe shop was closed. I didnt knowwhenyouwouldopen again, so I went to find a small hostel to stay in.While I was sleeping, the temperature suddenly dropped by around ten degrees. I heardneighing sounds. I had heardthose soundsfrom my friends,so I got up immediately. Then, I saw a tall and big figure intheroom.


    What did he do to you? I blurtedthatsince I guessed that the person was possibly the projection of the otherworldly item.


    He was riding a big, white horseand worewhite armor. Hewas headless. Yet,I could hear his sneer!He slowly raised the silver spear in his hand. At first nce, I knew it was the silver spear we had dug up the night before. I knew hehadeto retaliate. I jumped off the bed and ran away. Tang Xianzu still sounded fearful. While running, I wanted to scream to ask people to help me, but my throat seemed to be blocked. I couldnt make a sound. I was so panicked that I didnt choose the right road. I ended up in an alley with adead-end. The headless horseman sneered again. He said something that seemed toe from his stomach.I didnt understand. Then, he raised his spearand aimed itat me.


    Xianzu paused for a while. It seemedthat the headlesshorseman was ying with me. He didntwant tokill me. It was obvious that he could finish meoff at any time, but he didnt.While the headless horseman wasaiminghis spear at me, I heardaroostercrow. Then, both the horseman and his horse disappeared. I was wounded, but I tried my best to go to your shop. I met Li Mazi there,but I fainted after talking to him.


    After hanging up the call, I pondered aboutwhat I had just heard.Did thatspiritwantto show mercy or did hewantto y with Tang Xianzu for a while beforekillinghim?


    With that thought, I asked the Vige Elder,The men youve tied up, do they look strange?


    The Vige Elder shook his head. No, Ive asked strong and muscr men to guard them. Except for eating grass and neighing, theydontdo anything strange.


    I frownedand thought thatTang Xianzuwas hidingsomething from me. ording to him, his friends wanted to melt that silver spear, with him being the soleexception. Yet, he was the only one that was visited by that spirit. Until now, nobody got hurt except for him. It wasnt logical at all!


    Li Mazi also recognized this. He shot me a look then motioned his head toward the Vige Elder. He wanted me to investigate the Vige Elder. He was the one that had asked Tang Xianzu to find me, after all.


    However, I had a feeling that the Vige Elder wasnt a bad guy. There should be something ambiguousaboutTang Xianzu. I thought about it then asked the Vige Elder to take us to the Achievement and Virtue Memorial Arch to see those men. Unexpectedly, the Vige Elder looked hesitant. It wasas though he didnt want to take us there.


    Li Mazi fumed. He pulled meand saidthat we should leave.Li Mazis wordsmade the Vige Elder worried. The old man hurriedly grabbed us then told us the truth.


    No, its not that I dont want you to meet them. Butyou should know that those men havebeen pooping in their pantsthese days. We cant open that hall for you to see them. Its so horrible, you know.In addition tothehorriblestench, they have blisters all over their bodies. They look asthough theyarescalded. When those blisterspop, a lot of pus oozes out. The folks in our vige think that they may havean infectiousdisease. We dont want togetclose to them.


    Li Mazi advised him,Please think about it.Are all the other vigers okay? If itwasaninfectious disease, the people who haveghere must be infected already


    The Vige Elders eyes reddened. He sighed.Sinceyou are here, I can feelrestassured. Before you came, I had to tell the folks that it was an infectious disease. If I told themabout theparanormal activities, the entire vige wouldfall into chaos!


    Since we didnt mindtheconditions, the Vige Elder didnt stop us anymore. With his hands sped behind his back, he guided us to the mountain. Many viges had their graveyard on the mountain or behind the mountain. Tangjia Vige was no exception.


    Alongthe way, I observed the surroundings. It wasasTang Xianzu had told me. The excavators hadmessed upthe fields a lot. The people here couldnt grow crops now.


    If that real estate investor left,I thoughtthe vigers herewouldn''thave the money to recover their crops.


    I suddenly remembered the mysterious piece ofnd Tang Xianzu had told us about. Vige Elder, where is thatstrangepiece ofnd?

 Chapter 541: White Horse, Silver Spear, Charming Luo Cheng

    Chapter 541: White Horse, Silver Spear, Charming Luo Cheng


    Yeah, we should check it out, too. Its on the way, said the Vige Elder. He wiped his sweat.


    Although the Vige Elder didnt want to go, hesteeled himselfandtookme there. When we reached a small outcrop, he told me it was up there.


    I asked him to stay and wait with Li Mazi. I would go there alone.


    Soon, I saw theplotofnd. It looked exactly asdescribed. It was barren, and therewasnt a single de of grass.There were holes of various sizes. I thought that Tang Xianzu and his friends had done that. Dust and soil blew with the wind,which gavethe ce a forlornandeerie feeling.


    Cough, cough Suddenly, a chill ran up myspine.I had to jump a few times to warm up. When I felt warmer, I walked toward the biggest hole.


    I seemed to see faintdark air filling andrisingfrom the hole. Strangely, the dark airswirledaround me as if it had recognized my presence.


    Isthisa provocation or what? I mumbled to myself. Then, I smeared oxtearsovermy eyes. Afterward, I scanned the entire piece ofnd.


    Atfirst nce,the sight scared the living daylightsout of me. I almostfellon my butt. The entirend emittedresentful energy. It would be strangeifit could grow nts!


    The spot I was standing on happened to be the center ofthnd, which had the thickest dark air. I couldnt helpbut takein a deep breath. What thing could have such intimidating resentful energy?


    This amount of resentful energy could kill all the people in the vigeasit could change thegeomancyof the ce.


    However, the otherworldly item had just stayedinthis piece ofnd. It had nevere out to harm people. I supposed the otherworldly items owner wasnt a badpersonwhenhe was alive.


    However, he must havedied a tragic death, whichmade a wisp of his soul stay inhisweapon. Thats howtheotherworldly item wasborn.


    It also proved that Tang Xianzu didnt lie to me. He was wounded by that headless horseman, and the headless horseman had shown him mercy.


    I didnt know why, but I had a feeling that this shouldnt be too hard to deal with, despitethe incidentlookingstrange.It was an otherworldly item with a great deal of resentful energy, but it didnt want to kill the ones that had disturbed it.It didnt seem to bea stubbornandevil ghost.


    Thatwaswhy I didnt want to linger hereand wentdown the mountain where the Vige Elderand Li Mazi werewaiting.


    When Li Mazi saw me, he asked,Did you find anything?


    I told them my assumption. After listening to me, Li Mazi nodded, but the rims of the Vige Elders eyes turnedred.Sincehis reaction was so strong, Iasked,Do you know something?


    He shook his head. However,we could tell that he was thinking otherwise.Theresa legend people have passed through the generations in our Tangjia Vige. I dont know if its true or not, but... The Vige Elder had tears in his eyesas he began to tellus the legend.


    It turned out Tangjia Vige wasnt called Tangjia at first. It was called Zhongzi Vige.During the Sui and Tang Dynasties, this area was disputednd. After the Sui Dynasty ended, many people imed thends and proimed themselves as kings. In history, it was recorded as the Eighteen Heroes of the Sui and Tang Dynasties.


    Amongst the eighteen heroes, Li Yuan had the strongest force. Hemade hiseldest son, Li Jiancheng, the Crown Prince. However,his other son,Li Shimin, was much stronger than Li Jiancheng in majoraspectssuch amanding the army, ruling,and solving the matters of the imperial court.


    Slowly, Li Jiancheng began to envy his younger brother! He was afraid that his brother would take his title asCrown Prince.Hetried his best to eradicate the generals thatwere loyal toLi Shimin.


    Duringthe battleinZhongzi, Li Jiancheng knew that the enemieswerelurking everywhere. However,he still forced Li Shimins general,Luo Cheng,to advance!


    Thefamous general Luo Chengwasbesiegedandeventuallyfellinto a quagmire. He was killed by countless arrows. In the end, the enemytookhis head as a battle reward. Rumor said that when they burned Luo Chengs body, thearrowheadsfrom his body weighed several pounds. It was enough to tell how horrible his death was.


    Luo Cheng was a handsome man with invincible spear techniques. He was known as the Stern Cold Spear Charming Luo Cheng.


    The loynddedicated general Luo Cheng was plotted against by Li Jiancheng. Before he died, all of his resentmentwassent to his silver spear.


    Hiswarhorse, whichwasnamedLittle White Dragon, had also jumped into the quagmire tomit suicide.


    The enemy was impressed by Luo Chengs bravery and Little White Dragons loyal heart. They buried Luo Chengs remains with his horse in Zhongzi.


    Afterward, Zhongzi became the ce where people came to show their respect to the hero, Luo Cheng. They built him a temple. However, after the foundation of the PeoplesRepublic of China, the temple was demolished. The Zhongzi Vige was renamed Tangjia Vige.


    After listening to this story, I felt a little touched. Amongthemany heroes in the Sui and Tang Dynasties, Luo Cheng had the worst end.


    The Tang Dynasty was about to take over the country, but he was ambushedand waskilled by countless arrows. I felt somewhat lost.


    Li Mazi alsothoughtthat somethingwas strange. Vige Elder, why do you look so emotional?


    Im considered to be Luo Chengs descendant.


    I was shocked. Isthattrue? Although I admired and sympathized with Luo Cheng, I had always thought that he was just a fictional character. There was no one like him recorded in the official history.


    Unexpectedly, the Vige Elderbecamemad after I asked him that. Hmph! All the crows in this world are ck! After Li Shimin got the throne, he forgot about his general, who had bathed in blood to help him. He wanted to keep a clear namefortheLi family, so he ordered the historian to remove the event where Li Jiancheng had plotted against himanderased Luo Chengfrom history.Anyway, theres no perfectly windproof wall in this world. Even if hewasthe Emperor, he couldnt muffle all the people. Afterward, the legend of the Stern Cold Spear Charming Luo Cheng spread...


    After talking, the Vige Elder became anxious. Do you think Tang Xianzu and his friends dug up Luo Chengs spear? If its Luo Chengs spirit, please dont hurt him.


    Its possible Although I hadnt seen the spear, from what Tang Xianzu had encountered and the resentful energy I had witnessed up there, I could roughly concludethat thespirit of Luo Cheng was behind this!


    If itwasLuo Cheng, I thought I could talk to him and solve this event in peace. I didnt hurry to see those young men but asked the Vige Elder to show me the silver spear.


    The Vige Elder nodded. After that event, the folks in our vige thought that the spearwasntsomething good. They wanted to put it backinits ce. However, no one dared to enter thatnd, so weve cedit in a house in the vige for you to see.


    Tangjia Vige wasnt big. There was only one small pathinthe vige.Still, although we were inbroad daylight,I didnt see anyone walk along thepath.None of the houses had the lights on.


    The entire vige was dead silent.There were nodogs barking, either. Normally, peoplewho livedin the countrysidekeptdogs to guard their houses. When those dogs saw strangers, they would bark like crazy.


    Thewind blew,which waftedathick smell of blood toward me.Ididnt feel well as a bad premonitionhadeto me. It seemed something horrible had happened here.


    The Vige Elder blushed. Hiseyes bulged incredulously. Since he was too scared, he shiveredas he walked.


    What happened? Li Mazi askedin a careful tone. Right from the start, he had felt that the Vige Elder wasnt a nice man. He became even more vignt now.


    I couldnt helpbut becautious. The Vige Elder shook his head. He looked even more bewildered. How could it be?! When I left the vige to wee you, everything was all right. How could it have turned into this?


    Then, hewentto knock on the doors of some houses. Some had the doorslocked. There was no one inside thehomes.


    However, we saw blood sshed on the yardsofmanyof thehouses. It didnt smell like human blood but rather, the blood of domestic animals.It was nowonder why the entire vige was so quiet.


    Li Mazibecameanxiousdue tothe scene in front of him. He sounded scared and said, What should we do now?


    We need to take a look atthe spearfirst! I told him. I frownedand urgedthe Vige elder to move faster to the house where they had kept the spear. The situation there was the sameas inthe other houses. No one was there.


    The Vige Elder didnt have the mind to care that much. Hewentinsidethe house and opened a wooden closet. However, it was empty.


    What happened? The silver spear was kept here!Did someone steal it?Do they notwant to live anymore?! The Vige Elderscolded angrily. He was bewildered.


    Hurry!Take us to your viges Achievement and Virtue Memorial Arch!I hurriedlysaid tothe Vige Elder.


    He knew the seriousness ofthesituationand rushedtoward the Memorial Arch.


    Although he was an old man, he was much faster than Li Mazi andme.This was especially truewhen we had to climb the stiff mountain path. Li Mazi and I felt embarrassed.


    I had heard that peoplewho livein mountainous areas were tenacious.I had nowwitnessed itfor myself.


    The Vige Elder thought that the spear was stolen. But I thought that it had run away by itself. Tang Xianzu told me that two people couldnt lift the silver spear. Thus, even if someone wanted to make a bet, that personwouldnthave the ability to steal it!


    If the spear had left by itself and something horrible had happened to this vige, I had to reconsider the origin of this otherworldly item.


    Were the Vige Elder and I both wrongabout the spirits identity? Could it be someone else?

 Chapter 542: The Panicked Villagers

    Chapter 542: The Panicked Vigers


    Theviges Achievement and Virtue Memorial Arch was built in the center of the graveyard. The Vige Elder said they did that togatherthe ancestors souls to protect the vigers.


    Li Mazi snorted disdainfully, but I thought it was a good idea. Although ordinary souls didnt have much power, whenthe souls of theancestors congregated, they could somewhat bless their descendants.


    However, when wearrived atthe Memorial Arch, we found that the door was closed. Aloud noisecamefrom the inside.


    I didnt dare to enter the ceand haltedby the door. I assessedthe cefirst. However, I was surprised and skepticalto find that there wasno Yin energy in there.


    The Vige Elder came and tried to push the door open. It was locked from the inside.


    He immediately craned his neck and shouted, Open the door! Its me!


    Then, eyes peeped out from the slits between the doors and the frame. After they had confirmed that it wastheVige Elder, they opened the door.


    The momentthe double door opened, we couldnt help but drop our jaws.Around one hundred people weresqueezedin a small house of around twenty square meters. All of them had theirbacksonanother personschest. They packedthe ce. The adults had to hold the kids over their heads or let the kids sit on their shoulders. All of them wore a panicked face.


    My first impression was that it was a scenefroman end-of-the-world movie.It was a live-action version of an apocalypse movie!


    Under thedimlight, I saw an old man with a cane in his hand. He was tryingto squeeze out of the crowd.Whenhe finally gotoutof the crowd, he took a deep breath then turned to the Vige Elder. Sir, did you see Master Zhang?


    When the Vige Elderstepped forwardto call them to open the door, he happened to see our shadows as well. The light inside the memorial hall wasnt enough for them to see us clearly. The old mans eyes werent good, either.


    Whenthe Vige Elder heard that, he moved aside to let the others see us. Here they are. But whyare youall hiding in the memorial hall?


    When the old man heard that I was Zhang Jiulin, he stepped forward and got on his knees. He begged me.Master Zhang, please save us!Please save the folks in Tangjia Vige!


    I hurried to lift him and asked the people to leavethesmall hall.Before the otherworldly item attacked them, they could diefromsqueezing in there


    It seemed they had almost cracked. When I asked them togoout,theylooked like bees fleeing a broken hive. They scatteredand founda ce to adjust their breath.


    This is Sanye Third grandpa. Hes theoldest personin our vige, saidtheVige Elder.


    I also called him Sanye.


    After Tang Xianzu and his friends dug up the silver spear, the poultries in the vige started to disappear. We didnt notice the phenomenon until it became frequent. People began to worry. However, no one got hurt, so they decided to ignore it.


    The Vige Elder patted his thighand medhimself. I was too worried about the silver spear that I forgot to investigate this case.


    I was speechless. However, I didnt give anyment but asked Sanye to continue talking.


    Sanye nodded. I caughtagleam of fear in his opaque eyes. My heart sankasI knew that at his age, there werent many things that could scare him.It seemed thesituation was much moreplicated than I had thought!


    When Sanyefinishedtalking, Li Mazi and I frownedand exchangedlooks. It turned outthat whenthe Vige Elder came to wee us this morning, Sanyeledpeople with high creditsto visiteach family in the vige.


    Although it was just somemissingchickensandducks, it was part of the vigers ie. Sanye wanted to count and summarize the numbers of losses, times, and frequencies. He wanted to be well preparedto report the case to me.


    Right whenthey were about to finish their visiting trip, all the domestic animals in the vigeturnedcrazy!


    The dogs barked loudlyand thechickens and ducks fluttered. Even the mice hiding underground got out and fled. It seemed something horrible was about to happen.


    Sanye was the oldest in this vige. He had experienced many things, but he had never seen anything like this before, let alone the other folks.


    He consulted with his men and they agreed to gatheratthe vige entrance to wait for me. However, as soon as they gatheredeveryone, a terrifying event urred!


    Hundreds of giant weasels appeared on the only road in the vige. They gazed at the people like tigers watching theirprey. They even ground their teeth.


    Nobody had seen a scene like this before.Feelingfearful, they all rushed to the Achievement and Virtue Memorial Arch to hide.Thatwaswhythey hadpacked in this tiny hall.


    I now understood why therewasblood in the houses. The weasels had eaten the poultries there.


    However, I was certain that those weasels werent ordinary ones. Even if they were strong enough, theywouldn''tbe able to eat big domestic animals like dogs or pigs.


    I guessedthere could bea weasel spirit in this vige. I then pried, Sanye, do the people in your vige worship the House Immortal Protectors?


    Sanyes eyes turned bright. Oh, you are a true master! Our vige has many refugees from Northeastern areas. They have the tradition of worshipping the Yellow Immortal. Before the foundation of the nation, wehada Yellow Immortal Temple in the vige. It was destroyed, though.


    However,Sanyehad never seen the Yellow Immortal feast on domestic animals.Why didso many weaselse to his vige this time?


    I nodded and didnt want to lingeronthis topic. Can you take me to see those bewitched young men?


    Sanye waved his hands. The folks then carried out a few young men who were tied up. As soon as they appeared, theyreekedofthe horrible smell of feces.Theircrotches were yellow and swelledup. I almost puked.


    I considered thingsandtook out a few talismans, handingthem to the Vige Elder. I asked him to stick the talismans onto the victims foreheads.Then, they shouldgive a bath to those men.


    The Vige Elder embarrassedly received the talismans and asked his people to work on it.


    After I askedSanye for the location of theruinsof the Yellow Immortal Temple, Iwent there withLi Mazi.


    LittleBrother Zhang, slow down! Slow down! Since Li Mazi had been at hometakingcare of Ru Xue for a long time, his physique wasnt good anymore. He couldntkeepup with me.


    I shot him a despising nce. Dude, can you move faster? If you cant, you should go home and feed your baby!


    Haha,lets not talk about that Li Mazi gave me a despicable grin. Then, he pulled himself together.Brother,doesthis case rte to the Yellow Immortal?


    I shook my head since I wasnt sure. The House Immortal Protectors were animals with intelligence. Theyhad received human worship, and they would protect houses and domestic animals. The House Immortal Protectors varieddependingon the area. There were foxes, weasels, hedgehogs, snakes,and more. However, the most famous ones were the Northeastern Fox and Weasel Immortals!


    Although the House Immortal Protectors originated from animals, as long as they receivedproperworship, they wouldnt harm people. Thatwaswhy Ithoughtit was weird. If the Yellow Immortalwasntpleased with the people here,it could have carried out a punishmentwhenthetemple was removed a few decades ago. Why would it wait until now?


    But if it had nothing to do with the Yellow Immortal, how could we exinthebig weasels that wreaked havoc in the vige?


    Li Mazi didnt understand the story. After listening to me, he looked puzzledand asked,So, is it dangerous?


    No, it isnt. The House Immortal Protectors can deal with normal people. However, they will stay away from experienced people like us.


    All right,thatsgood then Li Mazi rubbed his chest.I lookedat his despicable appearanceand felt the urgeto p him.


    We went to the mountain peak where we found a copsedandtattered structure. It used to be the Yellow Immortal Temple of Tangjia Vige. Sanye told me that there would only be one structure at the mountain peak.We couldnt get it wrong.


    Even though they said it was a temple, it only had one wall and a few pirs. From a distance, I saw pieces of the broken Yellow Immortal statue. It lookedsoweathered.


    This ce is even dirtier than a toilet. Do we need togoin there? Li Mazi took a look thenined.


    I didnt respond. I went to the temple to see. There were only spider webs and dust. There was no Yellow Immortal here. Otherwise, the ce wouldnt be so dirty.


    Li Mazi followed behind me. What did you find?


    I shook my headand was readyto leavewhenLi Mazi began tosink!


    I hurried to pull himup. I now recognized that we werent walking on thepacted ground but something looked likeathreeyered wooden floor. Since it was old, Li Mazi hadbrokenit while walking.


    After pulling Li Mazi up, I kneltby the hole to observe it. There was a dark chamber hiding underneath.


    Due to the angle, I couldnt see the interior clearly, but I could recognize that the ground of the chamber looked much cleaner than up here. Moreover, my nostrils caught the smell of fresh blood!


    Hurry! Lift this floor! My intuition told me that there was an important clue down there. I was excitedand askedLi Mazi to help me lift the wooden tilesonthe floor.


    And you said that yourBrother Li cant do this and that! Without me, would youhavediscovered thishiddenchamber? Li Mazi soundedcontent.


    I looked at himand wasspeechless. Anyway, thisguysomehowhadstrange luck!

 Chapter 543: The Blood-Sucking Monster

    Chapter 543: The Blood-Sucking Monster


    We sooncreated a hole in the ground. It wasaround two meters wide. Li Mazi took the lead; it seemed hewasgoingto jumpin. I hurriedly pulled him back. Then, I sprinkled refined salt into the hole.


    Having workedin this business for quite a long time, I had created good habits. I didnt want to admit it, butSenior Shuwas right when he had reminded me to be more vignt. Mygrandfatherhad also lost his life due to his carelessness.


    As such, Icarriedrefined salt and ck beansevery time I went out.


    After I sprinkled the refined salt, there was nomotion. I eased my mindand lookedat Li Mazi. Later on, I will ignore you every time you actimpulsively.


    Haha,arent you here with me? I dont need to be that cautious withyou around. Li Mazi smiled bitterly then jumped. As soon as hended, he screamed and wobbled.


    I was startled by his scream. I immediately jumped into the hole and withdrew my Sirius Whip. Ished itat the void in front of us.


    My whipdidnt hit anything.There was nothing in this ce. I wanted to reprimand Li Mazi, butafter following his line of sight, Isawsomething. At first nce, I couldnt help but take in a deep breath!


    Around five meters in front of uswas a pile of countless animal carcasses. There werepoultry, dogs, cats, and even big domestic animals like pigs and cows.Thecarcasses were piled up neatly as if someone had arranged them that way.


    Fortunately,apart fromthedead animals, there was nothing else in this chamber. I pulled myself together. I knewthatthose bodieswere the missing domestic animalsfromthe vige.


    I became bolder. I walkedforwardandpicked up a duckandchecked it. The duck had one wound onitsneckandits entire body was as stiff as a stone. I tried to squeeze it, but no blood oozed out.


    I checked a few more chickens. Theywere inthe same condition.


    It was nowonder the smell of blood was faint,despite there beingso many carcasses. These dead animalshad beensuckeddry.


    LittleBrother Zhang, this this House Immortal Protector is really cruel! Li Mazi saidin a shaky voice.After a long time, Li Mazi finally got a hold of himself.


    I shook my head.No, the Yellow Immortal didnt do this.


    TheYellow Immortal liked to eat meat, but it didnt like to suck blood.When the weasels stole poultry, they would eat the entire chickenand leave thefeathers and blood behind.


    Thedead animals in front of us had intact bodiesand wereid neatly on the ground.It seemed thecreature behind this liked to suck blood.


    With this thought, I lifted my head to assess the ce.Thechamberwas nearlythe same sizeasthe Yellow Immortal Temple up there.When the people constructed this temple, they might have deliberatelycreatedthis space tomakemore roomforthe Yellow Immortal.


    Although I didnt know what had created trouble here, it wasnta coincidence. After the silver spear was pulled out of the earth, ithadeout to wreak havoc.


    Li Mazi thought for a while then askedin a puzzled voice,Would Luo Cheng cooperate with this thing? Or,didLuo Chengsuckthese animals to death?


    Nonsense! I scolded him.ording to theunofficial history,Luo Cheng was proud and noble. Howcould he dosomethinglike this?


    If we wanted tosee if there was artionshipbetween these two incidents, we needed to see the silver spear!But the spear had run awaybyitself


    While I was thinking about how to find the silver spear, I heard hurried footsteps aboveourheads. Li Mazi and I exchanged looks. Instinctively, we became more cautious.


    The Vige Elders voice came from above our heads. Master Zhang, Master, Li, are you in there?


    I exhaledand answeredhim. The Vige Elder had brought a few strong men along. They were lookingthrough the hole in the ground.


    It turned out that after we toldhim that we were going to the Yellow Immortal Temple,he was afraid that something badwouldhappen to us. Hebroughtsome men to help us.


    I didnt want to let them know about the situation down herebecauseI didnt want to scare them. However, before I could say anything, some young men jumped into the hole. They immediately saw thepile ofanimal carcasses. They screamed, which made the Vige Elder jump down, too.


    Can we take them back home? They were scared but stisked.


    They had fed those domestic animals for quite a long time, and now they couldnt sell them.They thought they could still use the meat to somewhat make up for their losses.


    However, since I didnt know what had caused this scene, I didnt want to takeanyrisks. Vige Elder, you should warn the vigers thatno oneis allowed toe here and take those dead animals.


    The Vige Elder agreed. Although the other men didnt look pleased, they had to listen to the Vige Elder.


    It was the afternoon now, and the vige was stillquiet.I had told the vigers to stay in their houses.


    Li Mazi frowned.LittleBrother Zhang, what do you want to do now?


    I looked at the deserted vigeand grittedmy teeth. We must find the one thatstolethe domestic animals first.


    No matter what the rtionshipwas between the silver spear andLuo Cheng, it had donenothing too seriousuntil now.At the same time, thatblood-sucking monster had brought a serious threat to the folks in this vige!


    Iwent back to Yellow Immortal Temple with Li Mazi. If that brute had left the carcasses in that chamber, it would go back there.


    Sinceitwasntthere during theday,didit go around to find moreanimalsto suck their blood?


    When we arrivedat the temple, Li Mazi and I carefully walked around to check. Wefeltthatthe scent ofbloodwasthicker this time. We jumped down and saw more dead animals. This time,there wereeven wild birds, hares, and deer from the mountain. Theyhadallbeen sucked dry.However, we still didnt seethe murderer.


    Sinceit was the second time we saw this, Li Mazi wasnt scared anymore. He rubbed his chin and contemted the situation. Whatthingneedsto drink a lot of blood like this?Willite here again?


    Im sureit will. Otherwise, it wouldnt keep the dead animals here. I believe it will need to use them forter, I said instinctively.


    Since we didnt know when that thing woulde back, we didnt want to linger and take any risks. We walked away from the temple and hid by a nearby swamp. We waited.


    After around one hour, nothinghappened. However, it started to rain heavily.SinceLi Mazi and I were hiding by a swamp, we were in the low spot.We were shortlysoaked in water.


    This weather was favorableforghosts and evil creatures toe out. I didnt mind mywetclothes or cold. I continued to waitpatiently.


    The rain became even heavier,which hinderedour sights.When I leaned against Li Mazi, welookedlike a dim shadow intheheavyrain.


    Around half an hourter, Li Mazi couldnt put up with it anymore. He shivered in the cold. LittleBrother Zhang, should weheadback? I feel so cold. Impletely drenched


    Although I didnt want to leave, waiting here wasnt a wise option. I noddedand was readyto depart. However, before we got up, a horrible thunderbolt came from the sky.


    Then, we heard rapid footsteps. It sounded asif therewasan army of tens of thousandsdashing toward us.


    The noise drew closer. I became anxious.At thismoment, several lightning bolts shed in the sky.Iwas shockedand gaspedat the sight of countless mice dashing toward this ce from every direction.They all rushedinto the Yellow Immortal Temple.


    After around three minutes, the horde of mice disappeared. Li Mazi also witnessedit. He was so scaredthat hefarted a few times. W-What just happened?


    I guessit wasa mouse monster.


    After the thrill was gone, Icalmeddown.Thehorde of mice hadmovedfast, just asthough they wereona pilgrimage.It seemed the rat king was there.


    The rat king musthavekilled all those domestic animals. Butwhy did itsuckall thatblood? Was it to ovee the heavenly tribtion?


    With this thought, I lifted my head to look at the sky again. Rolling ck clouds started to congregate above the temple. At the same time, lightning strikes began tohitthe temple!


    Itwas the preparation before the heavenly tribtion!


    I felt mybuttclenching.It was nowonder it had to suck the blood from countless animals. It wanted to use the blood to strengthen itself!


    The blood and soul blended. If Iwasright, this cehada rat king.Sinceit had killed so many animals, it would have numerous souls.Thosesouls would increase the rat kingssurvivalrate!


    I couldnt imagine how strongtherat monster would beafterthe heavenly tribtion.However,Iknewthat it wouldbringa disaster to the vigers in this area.


    I handed Li Mazi the Yin and Yang Umbre andprotectedmyself with the Sirius Whip and the Peach Soul Flower.After clenchingour jaws, we dashed toward the Yellow Immortal Temple.


    I thought that those rats wouldtry tostop us. However, they looked as though they didnt recognize our existence.Theylifted their headsand stoodstill. They only lookedat the wallofthe temple.


    I followed their line of sight. There was a giant rat in front of the wall!


    rgh Ihad just takena nce but couldnt helpvomiting. That rat was the size of a small buffalo. It was standing on two legs like a human. Thefuron its entire body had turned red.


    It looked extremely dangerous. Suddenly, the rats hairs began to fall off, which revealed the ruddy fleshbeneath.The body parts that didnt have hair now twistedand wereseemingly turninginto human skin.


    Itwas transcendingthe heavenly tribtion! I didnt have the mind to care about my churning stomach. I gritted my teeth and chargedforward.


    The rat saw me before I could reach it. It turned to look at me. The ratsheadwashalf-human, half-rat. It gave me a sinister smile. Then, it faced the skyand roared. The stunned rats seemed to have received an orderandstarted to crawl and attackuscrazily.


    Damn it! Go away! In just a blink of time, Ihad been bittenseveraltimes!Sincewe didnt haveaway out, I didnt care about anything elseat thismoment. I had to stop that rat monster fromtranscendingthe heavenly tribtion, even if it meant I had to die!


    I crazilyshed the Sirius Whip. All the rats in front of mewerehit by it. Theirbodiesbledand broke!

 Chapter 544: Hold the Spear Tight, Urge the Horse, Strike!

    Chapter 544: Hold the Spear Tight, Urge the Horse, Strike!


    Countless ratssurroundedus.We couldnt finish them off, no matterhow hard we tried.I was running out ofstrength, and the Sirius Whip couldnt maintain its power anymore. The situationbecame seriousafter just a fewseconds.


    Luckily for us, Li Mazi had learned some spells from me. He couldcontrol the Yin and Yang Umbre.


    The Yin and Yang Umbre floated upand projecteda Yin and Yang diagram underneath. Li Mazi safely stood in the umbres shade. The rats that came near himweresent backward.Whenhe saw that I couldnt put up with those rats anymore, he rushed toward me and pulled me into the umbres shade.


    LittleBrother Zhang, itwont bea problem to protect ourselves here. But howcanwe deal with that big rat? Li Mazi asked in a panic.


    Li Mazis face was stained with rat blood and flesh. He roughly wiped his face.


    I followed his line of sight. The big rat over there had itsfurpeeled offuntilitschest. Italready hadahuman torso!


    Li Mazi, do you dare toengagein a battle with that thing?I looked at the rat monsterandughed.The situation was clear. If we ignored the rat monster, Li Mazi and I could leavethis ce safely. However, the vigers in Tangjia Vige would be in grave danger.


    If we risked everything to stop it,oursess wasnt certain. No matter what, we would have to sacrifice ourselves here!


    Ifwe left the Yin and Yang Umbre, those rats would nibble our bones to powder!Was it worth it to exchange ourlives for a chanceto defeat the rat?


    Li Mazi was bewilderedand stayedsilent fora fewseconds. Then, he turnedinthe direction of Wuhan city and roared,Ru Xue, I want you to give me more babies inmynext life! Then, he turned to meand pattedmy shoulder. Brother, Im well prepared.


    I received the Yin and Yang Umbre from him.Mymemories of Li Mazi shed in my head. Then,I slowly stabbed the Yin and Yang Umbre toward the rat monster.


    The momentour lives were at stake, we heardahorse galloping behind us. Soon, the ratssurroundingus became agitated and anxious. The rat monster,who nowhad a human upper body, looked panic-stricken.


    I turned around and saw a white shadow riding a horse. It was runningfast toward us!


    The white shadow didnt have a head but was holding a silver spear. He looked likeaheadless ghost knight you wouldtypically seein Western legends.


    As the knightapproached us,I saw a wordembroidered on his cloak. It readYan.Iinstantly cheeredup.It had confirmed what Sanye and the Vige Elder told me. That white shadow was the Stern Cold Spear Charming Luo Cheng!


    Luo Chengs father was Luo Yi, who wasthe key generalof the Beipingarmy. On behalf of the imperial court, he guarded the border of Yan state, which was now Beijing. Thatwas why both the father and the son had a deep affectionforthe state of Yan.


    When war broke out in the entire country, Luo Cheng had to travel and battle far away from his home. It made him more nostalgic for home. Thatwaswhy he had the word Yan embroidered on his cloak. It was toshow his memoriesof his hometown.


    General Luo Cheng, we must stop this rat monster! I didnt know why,but I had subconsciously deemed that this shadow hade to rescue us.At thismoment, I felta lot calmer.


    Luo Cheng and his horse moved like a white lightning strike, smashing throughthe horde of rats.


    Soon, he came to us,haltingand turningto us. I guessed he wanted togive me a nod.Then, he urged the white horseand jumpedup. It was asif both the horse and the rider had wings!It was justas the historical novelhaddescribed him: Hold the spear tight, urge the horse,strike!


    AsLuo Chengattacked, his spear thrust forward like a venomous snake. The rat monster was extremely panicked. It knew it couldnt resist the attack. It turnedandfled.


    However, that creature was half-human, half rat. It couldnt coordinate its moves at all.Itdirectly rolled on the ground. Luo Cheng threw his spear at the monster.


    Wewillnever know if itwas Heaven''swill orsomething else, butrightatthatmoment, a strong thunderbolt shedand hitthe silver spear.


    Li Mazi and I were standing around a dozen meters away. Even though we stood under the Yin and Yang Umbre,we stillfelt the tingling sensation.


    The sparking silver spear flew about and stabbed the rat monsters belly. The rat shook hard. Before it could scream, it had alreadyturned intoamassof burned flesh.


    rghWhen I saw the scene, I couldnt help but vomit. Li Maziwasnt in a better statethan me. The two of us squatted with our backs against each other. We puked.


    After we got a hold of ourselves, we stood up tolook around. The ratswereall gone. Luo Cheng had left, too.Therewasonly blood and pieces of rat flesh on the ground.


    Since ancient times, gues broke out after disasters caused by rats. Itwas because rats always carrieda lot of dangerous viruses.


    Sincethe rat monster had sucked the blood off so many types of poultry, domestic animals,and even wild animals, those carcasses couldnt be eaten. At the same time, the rats that were killed herehad tobe cleansed. Otherwise, when these dead rats dposed,the rain would wash them down to the river or the stream nearby. If we couldnt handle them, infectious diseaseswould followthis event.


    With this thought, I didnt have the time to think about Luo Cheng. Icalled the Vige Elder immediately.


    I simply briefed himaboutthe rat monstertranscending theheavenly tribtion and asked him to wake all the folks in the vige toe here and clean the dead rats.


    Sincethe heavenly tribtion was gone, the rain subsided. I stood at the mountain peak and looked at the vige down there. The lights in the houses turned on one after another. Suddenly, I missed my grandfather.


    When I was a little boy, every time it rained, he would turn on the light and tell me many stories. I wondered how my grandpa was doing in the other world.


    Hey LittleBrother Zhang, dontyou think Ive beenso manly recently? Li Mazi squatted close byandhalf-jokedwith me. I now recognized that the two of us had justnarrowlyescapeddeath. I couldnt helpbut giveLi Mazi a thumbs-up.


    It was rare that Li Mazi had a chance to show off hisskills. He yearningly asked, When will we meet Luo Cheng again?


    Both Li Mazi and I admired and respected Luo Cheng. Moreover, the recent incident helped me confirm my assumption. Luo Cheng had never joined hands with that rat monster. Quite the contrary, he had helped the people here get rid of the monster.


    I had noticed that as soon as the rat monster saw Luo Cheng, it hated that it could not run fast enough. It seemed it wasnt the first time the monster had encountered Luo Cheng.


    But whydidntLuo Chengkillthat monster earlier?


    While I was puzzledandtrying to solve this matter in my head, I heard noises from the mountain path. I lifted my head and saw the vigersing with shlights, sacks, barrels of gasoline, and barrels ofoil in their hands. Theyhad alljoined together.I saw many childrenas well. They wereeven holding their cats in their chestsand walkingwith the adults.


    Leading the group of people were the Vige Elder and Sanye. The vigers proactively worked and cleaned up the horrible remains of the rats without waiting for me to ask them. When I looked at them, I thoughtthatI had justexperiencedtime travel.


    Damn,this is verysimr to the scene of destruction of the four pests from a few decades ago!


    Before I could say anything, the Vige Elder and Sanye came to me. They grabbedmy hands and thanked me. After that, a few young men walked to usand goton their knees in front of me and Li Mazi. They thankedus for saving their lives. Ilooked at themandrealizedthat they were Tang Xianzus friends.


    Before you called me, they had slowly recovered. I was too excited so I forgot to tell youthegood news. Sanyeughed happily. Hiseyes were brimming with grateful tears.Then, he asked,Do you know whythatrat monsterattackedour vigeand whythese young men neighed like horses?


    Before Icouldanswer the old man, the Vige Elder asked,And the silver spear, why hasnt it reappeared even though the rat monsterhasbeendefeated?


    It was obvious that those vigers thought that Luo Cheng was the rat monster. I patiently exined every detail of this incident to them. After listening to me, the two old men had tears rolling down their faces.


    The Vige Elder was especially impacted as he was Luo Chengs descendant. Im so grateful for my ancestors help. But at the same time, I felt guilty and embarrassed. Master, you must help me find that silver spear!


    Its what I should do. Luo Cheng is my idol. He is ahero I respect and admire! I said resolutely as I balled myhandsinto fists.


    Li Mazi added, I am the same.


    Sincewe had many people here, weeventuallycleaned up all the dead rats at the mountain peak. I asked them to throw all those rats into the dark chamber underneath the temple. We then used gasoline to burn themalongwith the other dead domestic animals.


    After everything was done, we returned to the vige.Sincethe folks were tired, they went home to rest. The Vige Elder stayed with meand asked, Do you know how to find Luo Chengs silver spear?


    I didnt answer his question but asked,Do you know how long its been since that piece ofndstoppedgrowinggrass?


    The Vige Elder supported his chin with one handand thought about it. I dont know the exact time, but it should be a few years after the Yellow Immortal Temple was demolished.


    Oh right! Thats it! I patted my thigh.Iunderstoodit now.


    After the Yellow Immortal Temple was destroyed, the Yellow Immortal left the ce, which left Tangjia Vige unprotected.Thatwas when the rat monster came and took its ce.


    The rat monster came and nned todestroythe entire vige, but the dormant Luo Cheng had discovered its n. Luo Cheng battled against the rat monster alone. That piece of oddndwastheir battlefield.


    Afterward, Tang Xianzu and his friends dug up Luo Chengs silver spear, which also removed the threat that had subdued the rat monster. Withoutthethreat, the rat monster came to scheme again.


    Those young thieves were forced to neigh and eat grass like horses. It couldhave beenthe work of Luo Chengs horse. Perhapsthe loyal horse wanted to take justice for its owner.


    Luo Cheng then reappeared at the critical moment, which was when therat monsterwas transcendingthe heavenly tribtion. Itmeant thatLuo Cheng had been watchingthemonster for quite a long time.


    After making everything clear, I gently patted the Vige Elders shoulder. Sir, dont worry! If nothing unexpected happens again, thatnd will soon be able to nourish nts!


    I assumed that the silver spear would return to that hole. But I couldnt understand why Luo Cheng had kepttabson Tang Xianzu.Until now, Luo Cheng had only appearedin front ofTang Xianzu,almostkillingthe young man with his spear.


    Imade up my mindto go to the hospital tomorrow to visit and ask Tang Xianzu. I was now certain he hadkept somethingfrom us.


    The next daywasbright and sunny. Iclimbedthe mountain with Li Mazi to visit the Yellow Immortal Temple. I wanted to check those carcasses.


    When we entered the temple and the hidden chamber, there were ashes on the ground. However, many small dead bodieshadnot been burned yet. Li Mazi kicked a small rabbit aside, which earned him a mouthful of dust and ashes.


    Instinctively, I moved aside to avoid the rising ashes. All of a sudden, I found a big hole.


    Iwentthere to have a closerlook. I learned that this hole had been here for quite a long time. However, itwascovered with mud thest few times wewerehere. Thatwaswhy we didnt see it.


    It wasbeyondour imagination that the rat monster had burrowed a hidden tunnel here! I held the Yin and Yang Umbreand benta little bit to enter the tunnel. Although it wasnt big, it couldfita buffalo-size rat. It wasnt a big deal for me to move throughthedark tunnel.


    Li Mazi was scared. He was worried that something ominous was waiting for us at the other end. He kept pulling me back. However, since the rat monster wasdead, I didnt think there wouldbe anything dangerous.


    After walking for a long time through the tunnel, wedidntfindanythingout of the ordinary. Li Mazi eventually calmed downand urgedme to move faster. We didnt know how long or how far we had been walkinguntilwe sawalight in front of us. I was cheered upand movedtoward the light.


    After I crawled out, I sawthatwewere in the barren piece ofnd.


    Its no wonder that rat monsterbecamehaughty as soon as Luo Chengs silver spear was taken away! It had already dug the tunnel to connect the two ces! I got it now.


    Then, I walked to the ce they had found the silver spear. Isaw thatthe hole was filled and leveled. Therewereno traces left. If I hadnt remembered this particr location, I would have never believed that there used to be a hole here.


    I focused and looked around.The wispsof dark air wesaw before seemed to have all vanished. I believed that this piece ofnd would grow the lushest cropsin the next spring.


    Li Mazi sawmeponderandlookaroundthe ce. He thenasked, How could it be?


    I gave him a faint smile. The silver spear had returned to its hole.I guessed Luo Cheng had filled the hole, too. If he didnt want to leave this ce, I would respect his choice.

 Chapter 545: The Killing Bed

    Chapter 545: The Killing Bed


    Afterwe returnedto the vige, I found the Vige Elder and told him about Luo Chengs choice.


    The Vige Elder kept silent for a long time. In the end, he just sighed.


    I knew he wanted tohonorLuo Cheng, so I gave him a suggestion. Iftheir vige wanted to open as a tourist attraction, I thoughtthey should build a Sui-Tang cultural parkon thatpiece ofnd. It could be a source of ieforthe vigers and itcould honorLuo Chengs heroic spirit.


    We will consider your suggestion,said theVige Elder. It wasnt my concern if they would do that.


    After lunch, Li Mazi and I bid farewell to the Vige Elder and Sanye. They had collected dozens of thousands ofrenminbito offer us asoumission.


    The Vige Elder kept shoving the money into my bag. He knew the ruleofour businessand was thankfulthatI had given up the silver spear to fulfill Luo Chengs wish.


    I didntrefusehim this time. By doing this,the vigers could fet ease. I received the money and threw itatLi Mazi. Afterward, we went to the hospital to find Tang Xianzu.


    When we got there, he had already left. He had leftme a letter. Heres what the letter read:


    Dear Master Zhang,ifyou see this letter,it meansyouve already helped our vige solve the problem. To be honest, I tricked you. I was stabbed because I was too greedy.I wanted to steal the spear from my friends houseandexchange it for money. I knew the headless horsemanwasLuo Cheng. Yesterday, I heard from my family that General Luo Chengs spirithelped the vige eradicate the rat monster. Idont thinkI have the face to return to the vige anymore.Ill seeyou when I see you!


    After reading the letter, I couldnt help but shake my head. I thoughtthat Tang Xianzu was thetype of personthatdesiredmoney more thanhislife. This time, it was Luo Chengs spirit. If it had been the King of Western Chu or the God of ughter Baiqi, he wouldnt have had the chance to write this damn letter.


    However, I had to say one thing. Having worked in this business for quite a long time,I hadalways subdued otherworldly items. This was the first time an otherworldly item had saved me.


    When wewere about to fight the rat monsterand riskour lives, Luo Cheng hade. Li Mazi and I exchanged understanding looksand smiled. Wethenheadedhome.


    When we left the patient ward, we saw a group of doctors bowing and giving their apologiesto a young couple. However, the young couple was screaming at them.


    After a few seconds, Ilearned thattheir mother hadreceivedtreatment in this hospital. The mother was seriously ill when shearrived at the hospital. However, it wasnt a life-threatening sickness. After one nightofstaying here, she died unknowingly


    The couple thought that those quacks had neglected and killed their mother. They cried and demanded an exnation.


    The doctors and the family started to shout at each other. I sighedand prayedthat the deceased would rest in peace. Then, I turned and went downstairs.


    When we passed the nursescounter, we suddenly heard someonesay, Oh my God! Another patient has died! Ive saidit before. That bed hasaproblem, but the Dean doesnt listen to me.


    Let alone me, Li Mazi paled immediately. We turned andsawtwo young nurses whispering to each other.


    When they saw us watching, they pretended to be busy andstarted to collect and sort the documents on the table.


    Miss, what did you just say? I frowned. If shewas tellingthe truth, there was more to theold womans death.


    The nurse waved her hands at meand saidimpatiently,Please go.You dont need to know.


    Li Mazi wasnt pleased. He looked at the nametag the nurse woreand saidboldly,I remember your name. If you dont tell me the story, Im goingto see your Dean. Im sure youll be fired tomorrow!


    The young nurseseyes reddened. She wasupset but eventually nodded.


    IgaveLi Mazi a thumbs-up. This rascal friend of mine was a true diamond that could cut diamonds.


    The nurse then told us that it wasnt the first time a patienthaddied on that bed.Three others haddied before the old woman. Thatwas why she thought that the bedhad aproblem. Ivechecked the list of patients that used to lie on that bed. I found that every single patient whosleptthrough the night on that beddied in themorning


    It seems that bed reallyhasaproblem I exchanged looks with Li Mazi. We decided to help the hospital get rid of this problem.


    Fortunately, that room was a two-patient ward. After the old woman was gone, the other person was so scared that they askedto change rooms.


    The young couple caused trouble until the afternoon.I didnt lingerand triedtogetadmittedthere.


    The doctor in charge looked around forty or fifty years old. He was a responsible doctor.He pushed his reading sses up the bridge of his noseandsaid,Kid, a patient just died there. Take another room!


    That''s the point! Li Mazi recognizedthe wordshad slipped from his tongue. He corrected himself immediately.I mean, I like to stay in that ward. Every time Ie to your hospital, I stay there.


    All right, if youwantto stay there, you can stay there.You two boys canbringmore Yang energy to that room, anyway! When the middle-aged doctor heard Li Mazisaythat, he assessed us one more time. It seemed he knew our purpose. He waved his hand and asked us to fill in the form.


    As soon as I entered the ward, cold air pped my face.It seemedthere wasa curtain of cold air around the bedwherethe woman had died.


    It wasnt necessarily due to the foul thing.Itcould havebeen something else, like theold womans ghost or the ghosts of the previous victims.


    Before nightfall, I opened the door and the window. Then, I burnedwormwoodand walkedaround the room.


    When the scent of wormwood filled the room, the temperature wasnt low anymore. When I felt it was enough, I closed the window.Li Mazi and I thenstarted our long and boring wait in the room.


    After 10:00 PM, no more visitors walkedinthe corridor outside. The room temperature started to drop again


    It seemed that the foul thing couldnt stand idle. I asked Li Mazi tolieon the bed while Ihidunderneath the opposite bed.


    I had just learned how to draw the Yang Concealing Talisman.By usingthis talisman, I could conceal my Yang energy. Unless the ghosts saw me directly, theywouldnt be able tosense mypresence.


    Li Mazisure was bold. I had asked him to pretend to sleep on the bed, but hestarted to snore not even after three minutes.


    Ithoughtit was funny and wanted to wake him up. But then, I sawthat he wasblushing. It was asif hewaschoking. Li Mazis eyes shot open. Both of his hands grabbed his neck, just as if he was trying to pull away a pair of invisible hands!


    It wasanemergency, and I couldntwaste time. Immediately, I rolled out and got up. Ishedthe Sirius Whip at his neck.


    Before the whip reached Li Mazi, it stopped. I then heard a child crying. A faint red shadow appeared between me and Li Mazi.


    I focused andsawit was a boy that had a deformed face. His nose was missing. His bloodshot eyeswere differently sized. He lookedat me as if he wanted to tear me apart.


    I looked further downand saw thatthe kid didnt have an umbilicalcord. His intestineshadspilled out of his belly button. He was bleedinghard.


    This little boyisa resenting child!


    My grandpa had told me that there were three types of resenting children. The first type was the one that died intheirmothers womb. The second type was the childthat haddied at birth. And, thest was the ghost of a child that had died after birth.


    The third type of resenting child had enjoyed happiness in this world. Its resentful energy wouldnt be muchand we could help them rest easier. However, the first two types had extreme energy. My grandfather had advised me thatifI were to encounter this sort of resenting child, Iwould haveto attack fast and not show any mercy.


    I shouldnt let them go to create futureproblems.Resentingchildrenwere all hostile and inclined toseekrevenge. If youannoyed one, it would pester you forever!


    It seemed this boy had died at birth. From his deformed appearance, it wasnt hard to guess that his parents had abandoned him.


    I wasnt sure if I could subdue the ghost, soItook outthe Yin and Yang Umbre. I pointed itright at the child ghost.


    That child ghostfeltthe power of the Yin and Yang Umbre. He shot me a nce then let go of Li Mazi, jumpingtoward the window.


    You want torun? Not easy, boy! Iwouldntgive it a chance. I opened the Yin and Yang Umbreand dashedtoward the ghost.


    The ghost shot me a disdainful nce and elerated toward the window. However, he didnt know that I hadstuckspirit talismans on the window. He was sent backwardand fell under the influence ofthe Yin and Yang Umbre.


    He struggled in pain. He screechedandlookedat mewith imploringeyes. I knew he was asking for mercy, but I couldnt let him go. I knew that if our situations wereswitched,it wouldntsparemy life!


    After around two minutes, the child ghostpletely vanished. Li Mazi got up. He looked at the Yin and Yang Umbre for a while before he pulled himself together. Is it over?


    What do you think? I pulled him up. After putting onourjackets, we didnt linger for a secondand ranhome.


    Li Mazi thought itwaseasy to deal with the resenting child ghost, but it was because I had skipped a few steps.


    Ever since Id entered this business, I didnt think thatdealing with evilspiritswashard.The real reason it was hard was thatIwas willing to investigate the origin of the otherworldly items to help those spirits ascend in peace.


    If I just focused on destroying theevilspirittoobtainthe otherworldly item, I wouldntbeaqualified otherworldly merchant!


    What is an otherworldly merchant?


    Hes humble, he walks on the Yin and Yang road, and hebindsthestrings of karma!

 Chapter 546: The Odd Hunting Trip Story

    Chapter 546: The Odd Hunting Trip Story


    After solving the rat monster in Tangjia Vige, Li Mazi and I immediately returned to Wuhan City. We also happened to finish a resenting child ghost along the way.


    When I returnedto my antique shop, I resumed my pleasantandquiet life like a wild crane moving through silver clouds. Li Maziwenthomeandcontinuedto pamperhis wife like a servile eunuch. However, he would randomlyvisit my shop.


    On the day I thought Li Mazi woulde, I hadnned to buytwo bottles of Blue Wine to drink with him.


    As soon as I opened the shop, I saw Li Mazi. He was sitting at my shop front, leisurely drinking West Lake Longjing tea while checking out the beauties walking on the street with his despicable eyes.


    This man would never change his nature. I wondered if Ru Xue would ask him to knend ask for forgivenessifshe knew about this. Anyway, Li Mazi still had his conscience.When he sawme, he offered me breakfast.


    I sat next to him and bitinto myhamburger.I asked, Howisyour shopdoing?


    Oh well, its hard to fool people nowadays. I cant sell many of my counterfeits. Ihavent earned adime these days. Li Mazi pouted. Hedidnt sound pleased.


    I gave him a faint smile. Ihadalready guessed that. Our business was unpredictable. We couldnt guess when the next case woulde. Fortunately, we had earned a lot after each case. We were somewhat rich now.


    Ru Xue took Li Meng and little Nianchu to her grandparents ce, Li Mazi told me.


    At the same time, Yin Xinyue had to staywithherpany these days. She was busy, too. Li Mazi and I couldnt put up with our boredom anymore. Should we go out and look around for something to do?suggestedLi Mazi.


    IllcallSenior Shuto see if he has something for us to do. I smiled.


    I hadnt heard wind aboutSenior Shufor quite a long time. I was curious to know where he was, or if hewas stillhiding from his enemy.


    Right whenI was about to callSenior Shu, the telephone in my shop rang. Li Maziwenttopick upthe phone. After a few seconds, he threw me an ambiguous look.


    It seemedwehada case!


    The feeling was simr to someonegiving you a pillow when you needed to rest the most. Iwentto receive the phone. This is Zhang Jiulin. Please brief me on the events that have happened to you. Has your houseexperiencedparanormal activities? Do you haveanytrouble-making antiques?


    As soon as Isaid that, the person from the other line blurted, Mr. Zhang, I have something I need your help with! Please ept this case!


    After saying that, he added, ItwasSenior Shu. He told me to contact you.


    Perhaps he was afraid that I wouldnt help him.


    I patted my thighand thoughtthat this old man and I had an agreement overtelepathy. He had introduced a new case to me.


    However, I was still afraid thatSenior Shuwasfoolingme. He had tricked me with a few difficult cases already. I had to make a mental note. Then, Iasked theperson on the lo tell me what he had experienced.


    Its hard to exin clearlyina few sentences. Pleasee to me personally. Then, he hung up the call. A momentter, I received a message. Theaddress was somewhere in Shenyang.


    My excitement faded after reading the text.


    This personisinteresting,I thought to myself.


    He askedforafavor and soundedso arrogant. If hewasntintroduced bySenior Shu, I wouldnt have paid attention tohis case.


    It was autumn,and thndabovethe Yellow River was golden. After crossing the Shanhai Pass, the temperature dropped all of a sudden. I shivered inadvertently. I was lucky that Li Mazi had expected this. He gave me a cotton coat from his bag, which gave me instant warmth.


    It was a strenuous journey to Shenyang. I calledthe clientwhen we arrived. Soon, a BMW appeared in front of us. A young man wearing a ck suit got out of the car. Heworea pair of sunssesand walkedconfidently with a straight back. It seemed he was an important figure.


    Before the man arrived, Li Mazi took the time to whisper to my ear, That man looks rich! Remember to charge him more.


    I nodded. We talked to the man in the ck suit, then followed his car. He droveto the highway. After a while, we reached the suburban area of Shenyang.


    Brother, why did you call for my help? I drove the car parallel to his androlleddown the windowto talkto him.


    He gave me an unexpected answer.Sir, I dont know. When yougothere, my boss will tell you.


    It turned out he was just a footman. I didnt ask himanything else and checkedaround. We continued to drive for a while. Finally,froma distance, I saw arge-scale building that looked like one of those ancient imperial pcesortowers. The scene was magnificent.


    Thepce looks familiar. I think Ive seen it before,Li Mazi saidexcitedlyas he craned his neck.


    I turned toassess the ce. Then, I remembered that we were in Shenyang. Those should be the Eastern QingTombs. The founder of the Qing Dynasty, Emperor Nurhaci,was buried there.


    I continued to observethescene respectfully. However, it was strange.I had recognized wisps of ck air emitting from the Eastern QingTombs.


    Although the tombs would gradually have Yin energy, this ce was an imperial tomb where theEmperor,the Son of Heaven, was buried! The Yin energy here should be white or purple.SinceIhad seenckair,itsignaledthe existence of an evilspirit!


    Through the window of my car, I noticed a pedestrian.I had just taken a nce,but I could feel thick Yin energy from him. It seemed he was being possessed by something foul.


    I thoughtabout pullingover to have a look and see if I could help him, but the young man in the suit had left me far behind. I was afraid that I would lose sight of him, so I had to continue driving.I feltmore curious aboutthosetombs.


    The cars gradually left the urban area. The scenes alongside the road had turned into mountains and waters. Finally, the young man in the BMW pulled to a full stop.


    I looked around. This ravine looked like a bucket that carried treasures. There was a mountain that stood behind, andlow hills in the front. A long river was on the left, with smallnks onthe right. It was an area ofrare and excellent geomancy.


    Looking at this ravine, I strongly believed that theclienthad abigbackground. Behind the ravine, we saw a vi. From a distance, I saw that the vi was built in a traditional style. The area it was situated in wasnt small, either. At firstnce, it looked like a pce.


    I had a wry smile.We both stand when we pee, so why is the difference between us sobig?


    Before we entered thplex, a fat man that looked smart and savvy came to greet us.Whenhe knew that I was Zhang Jiulin, he was soexcited. He pulledmy hand to usher meintothe lobby to talk.


    When wesat down, he introduced himself. Im Ye Chen. Im the onewhocalled you for help.


    Ithought,Dont babble nonsense and get to the point!


    Could you tell me what happened? You sounded panickedon thephone.


    After listeningto me, Ye Chens face darkened in just a second. It seemed he didnt know what to do with his hands, so hejustwiggledhis fingers on the table.After keepingsilent for a few seconds, he started to talk. Itsnot me whos in trouble. Its my boss. His name is Jin Shengqing. It seems he has provoked something foul. Im in charge of contacting you for help


    I was more surprised.That Jin invited us here to help, butwhy does itlooklike we have to contact him through his agent?


    Ye Chentoldus more details. My bossworksin the stock business. He loves outdoor activities, especially archery. When he has free time, hegoesto Mount Changbai nearby to hunt.Around half a month ago, my bossbroughthis bodyguards with him to go hunting. They went to Mount Changbai.Thattime, theyhada big harvest with dozens of wild animals. Boss Jin was happy. He gave big bonuses to his bodyguards.However, when he came back, he became strange. At first, hispersonalityseemed to have changed. He became hot-tempered. However, we thought that hewas feelingsome pressure, so we didnt pay attention to it.His situation got worse after that. When heseeshis friends or even his family, he loses control and hits them.


    He continued the story.Since his condition isnt right, I have to stay in the vi with some bodyguards to take care of him. The other night, he suddenly roared in his room. Then, he began to sob loudly. When we heard themotion, we went to his room to check. Our boss was sitting on the ground with one hand supporting his chin. His other hand was making an orchid hand gesture. He looked so aggrieved when he wiped histears. He didnt look like our boss anymore. He looked like a whining girl. When we attempted togoto him, he turned and talked to us in a female voice!


    Ye Chens voice trembled when he came to this part. His facebegan to sweat. He gulped his saliva then continued. I heard thatSenior Shuis good at solving these things. I contacted himand learned that he was about to takeaflight to Congo in Africa to avoid his enemy. He gave me your contact information.


    After listening to Ye Chens story, Irecreatedthe images in my head. I suddenly felt a chill.


    However, it wasnt that I hadnt experienced the same situation before. In the case of the embroidered shoes, Li Meng was possessed by a female ghost. I pulled myself together and asked Ye Chen, If Mr. Jin moves out of this vi, will it still happen?


    Its useless. Weve tried all sorts ofthings. No matter where he is, he will act the same at night Then, Ye Chen grabbed my hand. Please help our boss!


    I gave him a nod.Wheres Mr. Jin?


    He went out for a walk. He knows youreingtoday. Hellbeback before twilight. Gentlemen, pleaserest first. When hees back, Ill notify you, said Ye Chen.


    SinceYe Chen sounded emotional, I didnt askfor any more information.

 Chapter 547.1: The Bronze Bow (1)

    Chapter 547.1: The Bronze Bow (1)


    After Ye Chen left, Li Mazi and I wandered around the vi.Perhaps Mr. Jins oddness had scared people. Except for a few bodyguards, there was only one chef in this vast vi.


    The chefdidnt look anything special. Aftertaking afirst nce, I didnt pay any more attention to him.


    After touring one round, I found no problem with the visgeomancy. It meant Mr. Jins sickness wasnt identally caused byawandering ghost.Itpointed to thecharacteristics ofanotherworldly item!Besidesthe guest rooms, most of the other rooms were locked. I didnt find anything strange.


    A momentter, the chef brought us two sets of French lunches. This man didnt look thatnice, but his French foodwasexcellent. Li Mazi and I hadtopetefor thest piece. After dinner, we got on the big bedand slept.


    At around twilight, we heard the roar of a car engine outside. I thoughtthatMr. Jinhad returned. I woke Li Mazi to prepare.


    Indeed, Ye Chen soon came to fetch us.


    As soon as I crossed the threshold of the lobby, Ismelled afaint floral aroma. It wasnt hard to recognizethat itwas Yin energy.


    The smellcamefrom Mr. Jin. It seemed the spirit had been following him day and night. I couldnt help but frown.


    Li Mazireachedthe lobby before me. He suddenly screamed, Oh hey, why does Mr. Jin look so familiar? Oh, he is


    I hurried to follow him. I was thrilled when I saw the so-called Boss Jin. He was the strange pedestrian we had seen while passing the Eastern QingTombs. If wedidnt needto follow the young man in the suit, we would have stopped to talk to him.


    Mr. Jinlooked at the two of us in surprise. Heasked skeptically,You are Master Zhang and Master Li, right? Why do you look so surprisedtosee me?


    Its nice to meet you, Mr. Jin. I am Zhang Jiulin. I shook his hand. I saw you on the way here.


    Jin Shengqing nodded. Yeah,Ihave a routine of running in the Eastern QingTombs area.


    I didnt want to lingeron this topicand wentstraight to the point. What happened to you? How is your situation? Although Ye Chen had told usabout the situation,it wasnt as sufficient. I needed to hear itfrom the victim.


    Mr. Jin forced a smileand talkedslowly. Its embarrassing. I dont know why I have turned into this. At night, I cant control my body. I will weep like a girl.My consciousness is clear, but I cant control myself. Igetan extremely sorrowful feeling but canttell what has caused it. I just want to cry


    No matter what, Mr. Jin was a sessful businessman. Although he was scared, he didnt show his panic. He continued, Moreover, every time I cry, I feel like someone is strangling me. I cant see anything, but when Igetup the next day, I see new bruises on my neck.


    Then, Mr. Jin pulled the cor of his shirtto show ushis neck.I saw many finger bruises on his neck. His skin was scalded.


    Ifeltanxiousafterseeing that. Although I had epted many otherworldly item cases anddealt withextraordinaryevilspirits, I knew this otherworldly item had harmed its host.


    I decided to lookandsee what kind of otherworldly item it was.


    Mr. Jin, tonight, you should rest as you normally do. Ill be by your side, watching.Dont worry, Isaidto Mr. Jin.


    Mr. Jin thanked me a lot. I recognized that his eyes were bloodshot. It seemed he had received enough torment these days.


    Soon, the chef brought us dinner. It was beefsteak and foie gras. After dinner, I asked Mr. Jin and Ye Chen to wait for us downstairs.Li Mazi and I wouldgoto his room to arrange something.


    Since thespiritwasa female and she wept all the time, I guessed she had suffered grievance before her death. I wrote the name,Dou E,on a sheet of paper and posted it on the wall.


    Whetherthe Yin spirit was from ancient times ormodern-day, she would know about Dou E.Everybody knew the Injustice to Dou E [1], right?


    Then, I sprinkled ayer of the best cinnabar underneath his bed to protect him.After everything was done, I asked Mr. Jin toe to his room. When he tucked into his bed, I turned off the lights in the corridor and his room. Then, Li Mazi and I hid in the closetandquietly waited.


    As the nightgrewdarker, the room became quieter. At the same time, the nts outside rattled in the mountainous wind.


    The clock hand ticked.I felt tired ataround midnight;I wanted to take thistime to puff a cigarette to rx.Then,Li Mazi suddenlynudgedme.


    I was surprisedand followedhis finger. The door had opened a little bit. We heard low footsteps from the corridor. The figure was approaching the room.


    I pulled myself togetherand held onto theSirius Whiptightly as I waitedfor that thing. However, the footsteps disappeared whentheyreached the door.


    I thought it had recognized me and Li Mazi, so I hurriedly adhered two Yang Concealing Talismanstoour bodies. It would help cover our Yang energy.


    The ghost still had not entered the room. I was skeptd cranedmy neck out to check. There was nothing else in the room.


    It seems she has spotted us I told Li Mazi, feeling a little lost. Then, I crawled out of the closetandfound two lines of faint footprints. It was really hard to wait for her, so how could I let her go like this? After clearing my head, I followed the lines of footprints.


    Those footprints led me around two kilometers away from the vi. I stood and looked around for a long time. I didnt find anything strange, so I decided to return.


    However, a flow of cold air blew behind me. Instinctively, I turned to see. A pair of bleeding eyesweregazing at me. Subconsciously, I took a step backward andshed the Sirius Whip at her.


    Before the Sirius Whip hit her, the ghost disappeared. I was stunned.


    Then, Li Mazis voicefrombehind me. LittleBrother Zhang, shes right behind you!


    Before I could react, a bluish pair ofhandsreached my neck. Her fingernails sparkled. They werereally sharplikedaggers.


    At the moment my life was at stake, I riskily threw the Sirius Whip. The female ghostsubconsciouslygrabbed the whip. She screeched as her handstarted to turn into smoke. The ghost shed then disappeared. Perhaps she thought she wasnt my opponent.


    Its sofreakingstrange. We were almostdone for!


    Li Mazi spat,What should we do next?


    We have to go back first. Im worried about Mr. Jin. I shook my head.


    As soon asMr. Jins name came up, I suddenlysaw the light. Li Mazihadthe same reaction. The female ghost hadluredus on purpose. She wanted tomake us leave Mr. Jin!I didnt have time to nag here. I turnedandrantoward the vi.


    As soon as we entered the vi, I felt thick Yin energy shrouding thece. Then, I heardawoman crying upstairs. I didnt have the mind to worry about anything else. Iimmediatelyranupstairs.


    At the moment I walked through the threshold, acoldwind blew right at my face. I quicklyloweredmy head to dodge it, but I could still feelmy scalp tingling!


    A loud thud echoed behind me. I moved aside and sawthat afiery red arrowwas stabbedinto the door. The arrowwasburning, and iteventually disappeared.


    It seemed theghostwasin the room and had ambushed me with that arrow. I switched on the light and lookedinthe directionofthe thickest Yin energy.Awoman wearing Manchurian traditional clothes floated. Her feet were bound, andshe was holding a ming bow.


    I didnt know what kind ofstatusshe hadwhileshe was alive, so I had to be ready. I heldthe Sirius Whip tightly!


    The female ghost wasntsurprised. She raised her bow, aimed at me, and pulled the string.Another fiery arrowwas immediatelyshot toward me. Shehadmade me her prey.


    At first, Ihadthe Sirius Whip with me, so I could dodge around seven or eight arrows. After the power of the Sirius Whip was used up, I became passive. I had to jump and bounce around to avoid her attack.


    Mr. Jinwas no longersnoring. I guessed hehad fainted.


    I couldnt just leave him like this.At the same time, I couldnt let the ghost shoot me as though I were a rabbit. At this moment, I felt restlessly anxious!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Injustice_to_Dou_E

 Chapter 547.2: The Bronze Bow (2)

    Chapter 547.2: The Bronze Bow (2)


    Witalisman do thetrick? Li Mazis situation wasnt better than mine. Hewashit at his thigh since he didnt run fast enough. His trousers were burning. If the arrow had stabbed him a few centimeters higher, he would have had to kiss goodbye to his happiness.At thismoment, he was flustered.


    Ivegot it! That ghost wassensingour Yang energy to shoot us. As long as we concealed our Yang energy, she wouldnt haveatarget!


    With that thought, I didnt hesitate to put the Yang Concealing Talismans onour bodies. The female ghost became hesitant.The Yang Concealing Talisman worked efficiently. I gave Li Mazi a thumbs-up. I casually threw the Sirius Whip asideandslowlyapproachedthe female ghost.


    Sinceshe had lost sight of us, she was a little bewildered. She hoveredstill in the air. It wasa good timefor me to take action. When I was close enough to her, I took out a handful of cinnabar powder from my pocket and sprinkled it on her!


    It was toote for her to react or dodge my attack.When thecinnabar powder hit her, her bodysizzledandburned.


    She shot me a furious nce but she didnt attack me.It was now pastmidnight, the time whenshe had the thickest Yin energy. She knew she wasnt my equal enemynow. Her body shook. Then,she disappeared into thin air.


    I wanted to chase after her, but then Isawa strange bow on the floor.It was the bow where the female ghostresided. If the otherworldly item had appeared, I didnt need to follow her.


    I asked Li Mazi to watch the bow while I went to the bed to check on Mr. Jin. I heaved a sigh of relief when I found that he was breathing normally.


    After hearingthemotion, Ye Chenbroughtthe bodyguards upstairsand asked, What happened?


    Sincethe female ghost had left in fright andhadeven discarded the bow she was taking shelter in, I was certain that she wouldnt return tonight. I asked Ye Chen to go back to his room to sleep. Afterward, I turned on the deskmp and observed the bow.


    The bow seemedto be madeof bronze as I saw many patina spots on it. The arch part of the bow had a lot of carvings with some small animal totems.


    This bow seemed to be a weapon dedicated to the Manchurian archers. However, I didntfindanything from its appearance. When I touched it, Irealizedthe bowwasntsimple. The surface was rusty but it felt so smooth to the touch, just likewarm embers.


    I recalled what Ye Chen told me earlier. Mr. Jins madness surfacedafter he returned from a hunt in Mount Changbai. I thought ithadsomething to do with this bow. Now, I needed to wait until he woke up.


    Although I knew the female ghost wouldnt return, I still watched the bow through the night. When the first beam of the sunrise shone through the window, I exhaled in relief. I woke Li Mazi up and handed him the bow before going to my guest room to rest.


    WhenIwokeupter that day, Mr. Jin was also up. However, he had norecollectionof what he had done yesterday. He only said that hedidnt sleep welst night.


    I simply washed my face and asked Li Mazi to take the bow. I wanted to ask Mr. Jin some questions. Unexpectedly, before I could ask him, Mr. Jin had a skeptical look on his face and asked,How did you get my bow?


    Your bow?Where did you put your bow? I asked.


    After thest hunt, Ive kept it in my house, saidMr. Jin.


    I didnt want to hide thetruthfrom him,so I toldhim every detaboust nights encounter. Mr. Jin then called his wifeand askedher to open his storage chamber to see if the bronze bow was still there. His wife told him that his safe chamber was locked, butthe bow was gone


    What?! Mr. Jin slumped onto the ground, feelinghelpless. A momentter, he pulled himself together. However, his voice was pessimistic. Master Zhang, what should I do now?


    How did you get this bow?


    He shot a fearful nceatthe bow then told me his story. Many bigshotshad their hobbies. For example, some liked beautiful women, some like hunting, and others likedcollecting antiques. Mr. Jin happened to havetwohobbies. He liked hunting and collecting antiques.


    One time, he had returned from his hunt in Mount Changbai. Coincidentally, he saw a Manchurian uncle selling bows and arrows. He found them interesting. That bow captured his eyes at the first nce. He ended up buying the bowforten thousandrenminbi.


    He wenthuntingin Mount Changbai one more time to checkoutthe bow. After that hunting trip, the female ghost started to pester him. Mr. Jin looked regretful. He scoldedandcursedthe uncle who had sold the bow to him.


    I just smiled and didnt say anything. However, I disdained him. He didnt have good eyes andwas minghis mistake on the other person.


    Since we didnt have a good sleepst night, after brunch, we went to our room to rest. Before I drifted into sleep, I saw Li Mazi walking back and forth. Hisface looked worried as if hehadaburdenonhis mind.


    Hey, brother. Do you missyour wife? I teased him. However,he still wore a grimace. I recognized something was strange. I got upand talkedto him.


    LittleBrother Zhang, do you know what I encounteredst night? Li Mazi sounded as though he was about to cry. I foundthisstrange. Yesterday, we had been together the entire time. There was a timewhilehe was sleeping and I was watching the bow. However, there wasnt anything abnormboutthat time.


    It was almost morning when I heard some sweeping footsteps. I thought it was you, so I didnt pay attention. The footsteps then grew lighter. Afterward,I couldnt hear them anymore. I knew it didnt feel right. When I opened my eyes, Isaw a white shadow holding a sword. He wanted to kill me. I was lucky that I had the Yin and Yang Umbre near me. I used it to parry with him. Otherwise, you wouldntbe seeingyour brotherright now!


    After listening to Li Mazi, I felt shocked. The female ghost that attacked us yesterday wore Manchurian traditional clothes.Li Mazi had just told me that he was attacked by a white shadow.


    It meant there were at least two spirits in this vi.Sincethe white shadow wasnt sucked into the Yin and Yang Umbre, he was stronger than the female ghost.


    From what had happened yesterday, I could roughly conclude that the twospirits were strong enough that they could have easily killed Mr. Jin. It would be an easy task, likeflipping their hands.However,they didnt. They just kept torturing him.


    It was strange. I pondered, then discussed a n with Li Mazi.


    We slept through the morning. After lunch, I returned to my room andfollowedthe n.Li Mazi left the vi quietly.


    In thete afternoon,we heard the sound of a car engine from outside the vi. I took a lookthroughthe window. A car stopped and two men apanied an old woman out of the car.


    The womanappeared to bein her sixties, and she lookedsophisticated. The other two men were around forty years old. The three of them had inexplicable auras. I was curious about their identities. However, since Mr. Jin was a tycoon, it was normal that he had some ssy friends. I didnt pay attention to this group of people.


    Not long after Itucked intothe bed, I heard the sound of people throwing things downstairs. Then, I heard Mr. Jinquarrelingwith the old woman.


    I thought they would stop soon, but that didnt happen. I wanted to go downstairs to talk them out of the fight, but it was Mr. Jins business. It wasnt appropriate to put my nose intothis.


    Atthis moment, rushing footsteps came from the corridor. Ye Chen charged into the room. His face looked worried. He pantedand said, Master Zhang, my boss has lost control again


    What? I dashed downstairs without putting my shoes on.At thismoment, Mr. Jins eyes had turned blood red. Hisface was twisting. He looked fierce.


    He was holding a ss. It seemed he wanted to throw it atthat ssy old woman. The bodyguards were pressing onto him.


    Mr. Jin struggled hard. Hegazed at the old womanand screamed,Im going to kill you. Ill kill you all. You have to pay for myErniangs life!


    The other people were bewildered when they heard himscream. However, I thought I hadgaineda clue!

 Chapter 547.3: The Bronze Bow (3)

    Chapter 547.3: The Bronze Bow (3)


    During the Qing Dynasty, children addressed their mothers as Erniang. The female ghost we had encountered yesterday also wore Manchurian traditional clothes. Could she be thisspirits mother?


    After thinkingthat Li Maziwasalmost killed by the white shadow, my heart sank.Then I remembered it was broad daylight right now!


    Sinceitwas able topossess a living manindaylight, it meantthat thisspirit was even stronger than what Li Mazi had described.


    While my head was spinning and thinking, I suddenly heard a horrible scream. I pulled myself together.


    However, I was terrifiedwhen I recognizedthat Mr. Jin had escaped the four bodyguards suppression. Hefuriously dashed toward the old woman.


    The woman looked petrified. Shedidntblinkormove. I knew I couldnt wait anymore. I bit the tip of my tongueand dashedforward. Immediately, I spat my blood on Mr. Jins forehead.


    Mr. Jin stiffened. I took this rare chance to p him abruptly.Mr. Jin shook, and his eyes rolled to the back of his head. Then,he fainted. At the same time, I saw a white shadow swiround the group of people. Then, it disappeared.


    It seemed the spirit could appear during the day but still needed to borrow a body. I heaved a sigh of relief.


    Ye Chen saw that his boss was unconsciousand askedhurriedly, What happened to him?


    A spiritwasborrowinghis body. Dont worry. Hell wake up after sufficient rest. I nodded.


    Thereisa sayingthat goes, The palm hits the flesh, and the back of the hand hits the soul. Itmeansthat when you palm someone, you just hurt that persons body. However, if you use the back of your hand to hit someone, itwillhurt their soul. It was the reason why people didnt use the back of their hands to hit others in some regions. I had just tried my luck when I pped him.To my surprise, it had worked!


    Ye Chen asked the bodyguards to carry their boss upstairs to rest. The old woman turned to thank me.


    After talking to her, I learned that she was Mr. Jins motherand that the other two middle-aged men were his younger brothers. Theyhadeto visit him when they heard that hehadastrange disease. They didnt expect that Mr. Jinwould turncrazy in the morning


    There was another odd thing about Mr. Jin. He always acted nice. However, when he saw his friends or rtives, hebecamefierce. I guessed ithadsomething to do with the spiritslife.


    At around twilight, Mr. Jins mother left with his two brothers. Before she left, she asked me to take care of Mr. Jin.


    It wasnightfandMr. Jin hadnt woken up yet. Ye Chen took me for dinnerand askedme where Li Mazi had gone.


    Hewenthome to run some errands. I think he wille back in a few days. I told Ye Chen a random excuse then asked him to rest tonight. No matter what you hear, dont leave your room.


    After listening to me, Ye Chen sternly nodded.


    If the two spirits just wanted to torture Mr. Jin, they wouldnt hurt the other staff in his house. Ye Chen and the guards couldnt help me. It would be better if they stayed away from the scene. I didnt want them to be the next host!


    At around 11:00 PM, I turned off all the lights in the vi. Then, I got out of the house and climbeda big tree. I smeared ox tears on my eyelidsand watchedMr. Jins roomwithoutblinking.


    Soon, a vague figure appeared in my sight. When it came closer, I recognized it was the female ghost Id encounteredst night.


    She headed toward Mr. Jin. I didnt take action but patiently waited to see what she wanted to do.She went to Mr. Jins bed.After staring at him for a while, she began to sob.


    Her crying was extremely sorrowful. I couldfeeltheangerinsideher agony. I couldnt help but pity herand feltsorry for her.


    I was outside andcould hear her cries, which meant that Mr. Jin could hear her, too. However, he didnt reactand sleptlike a dead pig.


    The ghost raised her handsand aimedat Mr. Jin. All of a sudden, the bronze bow materialized in her hands! I had taken that bow during the day, so how could she getit so easily?


    I didnt have time to think as the ghost had already shot Mr. Jin. Themanimmediately whimpered in pain.


    It exined the sounds Ye Chen and the others had heard before. After knowing what had happened during the night, I became sterner. I walked around the area outside the vi to check and found nothing.


    It wasnt hard to deal with that female ghostnow that we werealone, soI wouldnt let such a good chance slip away. I took out a Yang ConcealingTalisman to conceal my Yang energy. While creepingin the corridor, I bit my finger and drew a simple Five ElementsFormation there.


    The Five ElementsFormation focused on mutuallyattractingandrepelling theMetal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth elements.Thosewho understood the rules could escape the formation easily. However, if they didnt know the rules, they would never escape and could only wait fordeath.


    The bow that the ghostusednaturally belonged to the Fire attribute. Water puts out fire, soI ced a watergateright at the entrance to theroom. It would make the ghost inadvertently enter the formation.


    Then, I returned to my room tograbthe Yin and Yang Umbre. From the balcony of my room, I climbed into Mr. Jins room.The ghost didntnoticemypresence. I used this chance andopened the Yin and Yang Umbre. Then, Ithrew it toward her.


    Unexpectedly, although the female ghost didnt see me, her bow did. It jumped up and parried with the Yin and Yang Umbre. After a clear crackle, the bowbrokeinto two pieces.


    The female ghost saw the Yin and Yang Umbre and shrieked. She didnt turn her head backand rushedtoward the corridor.


    I knew she wouldstep into the formation. I didnt need to chase after her.I flinched andpicked up the two halves of the bronze bow. At the moment it had shedwith the Yin and Yang Umbre on its own, I knew it had a spirit.However, it was now broken. What a waste!


    The female ghost screamed and cursed outside. I smiledand walkedout of the room. Indeed, she was trapped inside the Five ElementsFormation!


    Although my Five Elements formation wasnt bigger than her three-inch-golden-lotus-feet, she couldnt escape. No matter where she ran, she would be sucked back into the formation, which made her look like a roly-poly toy.


    Gradually, the female ghost was worn out. She began to whine. I couldnt stand it when women cried. My heart softenedandwas about to release her. She wasnt my equal opponent, after all.


    Before I could dismiss my formation, her crying turned into sharpughter.


    Your Majesty, open your eyes and see how good your sons are! Haha! The ghostsughter subsided. Pity me. I,Abahai,have been a good mother my whole life. However,my sons strangled me to death. My God! Why did you do that to me? Wheres the justice for me


    Then, her eyes turned red. She gazedat me as though she wanted to tear me into pieces!She hurled herself toward the watergate.


    All of this happened in just a glimpse of time. When I pulled myself together, the female ghost had already vanished into thin air.


    I looked at the watergateand felthelpless. I slumped onto the ground.


    The female ghostsst words had shown her identity. She was the womanEmperor Nurhaci,the Qing Dynastys founder,loved the most. She was Lady Abahai.


    Lady Abahai was a smart, kind, and beautiful woman. Shehadstrong support for Nurhaci when he struck to im the nation.


    At the same time, she was a good mother who had taken care of her three sons pretty well.


    However, after Nurhaci got sick and died, her three sons, under Hong Taijispressure, forced her tomit suicide by strangling herself with abowstring. They did it to save themselves.


    I guessed that when Abahai died, she had a thousand questions inher mind. Thats why she didnt believein the existence oflove andfamiliffection. She hated both her family members and friends.


    If this spirit was Lady Abahai, the white shadow wasundoubtedlyher son, Dorgon. Dorgon was the leader of one of the great Eight Banners.It exined whyhe always wore white clothes. Dorgon often med himself for the death of his mother. When he started his regency, the first thing hedidwas confer the posthumous title,Empress, to histe mother.


    I guessed that Dorgons spirit had followed his mother to repay the love she had always carried for him.


    I felt guilty. It was exactlyasthe saying, I didnt kill Boren, but Boren died because of me. I had never thought of destroying Abahai, but I had indirectly forced her to kill herself one more time


    Ever since Ihad startedworking in this otherworldly item business, I had never encountered such an emotional situation. I felt a little shaken.

 Chapter 548: Hunt in Mount Changbai

    Chapter 548: Hunt in Mount Changbai


    After a momentof confusion, I had to ept the fact and pull myself together to face Dorgon,who would appearatany second.


    I could only imagine how crazy Dorgon would be when he knew that I had extinguished his mothersst wisp of soul.


    I stayed up the whole night to watch Mr. Jin. I didnt dare to sleepand waiteduntil the break of dawn.


    Not long after breakfast, Li Mazireturned. He asked, How is it going?


    I told him about Abahais story, thensaidwithgreat emotion,Did I do thewrongthing?


    Everything has two sides. You shouldnt me yourself, Li Mazi saidas hforted me.


    I wore a wry smileand shookmy head.I wanted todrivethe topic away from this sad storyso I asked,What about thetaskI asked you tplete?


    Your brother Maziaced it, of course! Li Mazi smiled.


    The other day, after listening to Mr. Jins encounter with the peddler, I had secretly discussed a n with Li Mazi. The n was thatI would stay in the vi to protect Mr. Jin while Li Mazi would go to Mount Changbai to find the peddler that had sold the bow to Mr. Jin.


    It wasnt that I didnt trust Mr. Jin, but many people didnttell me the whole truth when theyaskedfor my help. They always keptalittle secret. And,when they revealed their little secret, itoften broughtfatal danger to us!


    Li Mazi told me that he had found the peddler who sold the bows and talked to him for quite a long time. He even told him about Mr. Jins situation. However, when he asked the peddler about the origin of the bow, he didnt want to answer.Most of thoseold antiques were stolen from tombs. I could understand why the seller didnt want to tell Li Mazi the story.


    I just needed to confirm that Mr. Jin didnt fool us. Li Mazi sounded worriedand asked,Have you thought of a way to deal with Dorgon yet?


    I shook my head.


    Theres no need to hurry. Weve been through worse. Dorgon is just a bluntax! Li Mazi tried to cheer mewhenhelearnedI didnt have any good ideas.


    At thismoment, Ye Chen camein and pushed openthe door. He looked hesitant. Masters, theres something we need to discuss.


    Whats wrong?


    My boss feels so happytoknowthat youve finished off the ghost. He wants to go hunting in Mount Changbai today to celebrate. I think its dangerous. I hope that you two can talk him out of it. Ye Chen stuttered a little bit. It seemed he thought that his bosswould bestupid enough to repeat his mistake. He had almost lost his life due to hunting, and now,sincehe had recovered a little, he started to walk on that path again.


    However, my eyes sparkled. Why shouldnt he go? He must go hunting!


    What? Ye Chen looked stunned. Li Mazi didnt get it, either.


    I just smiledand whispered somethingto Li Mazi. Li Maziunderstoodit. He winked at me, then threw his arm around Ye Chens shoulderand usheredhim to the door.


    Iwentdownstairs to find Mr. Jin. I saw himusea handkerchiefto rubsomething. When I came close, I was frightenedto seethe thing in his hand. It was the bronze bow that had been broken in halfst night.


    Master Zhang, you shoulehunting with me tomorrow! Ill take care of everything. He sounded cheerful. He looked lively and high-spiritedbecausethe female ghostwas no longer pestering him. He looked at meandughedgenerously.


    I took the bow from him and held it high to check. The bow was intact and almostinperfect condition. There was no crack or patch on it. It looked like it had never been broken.Howeverst night, the Yin and Yang Umbre had hit it andbroke it!


    Mr. Jin was surprised. Whats wrong?


    From his facial expression, I guessed that hesawthe intact bowwhenhe got up. I just shook my head. No,itsnothing.


    However, waves were secretly rising in my heart!


    I didnt leave the vist night, and Dorgon had mended the bow right under my eyes. I didnt evennotice it.


    Perhaps, he didnt attack mest night because of the Yin and Yang Umbre. I was scared. If he had attacked usst night, I would have died together with Mr. Jin


    Dorgon had lived up to his name ofGreat Qing Regent. His spirit was even stronger than I had imagined. I became more resolute in getting rid of him.


    After Mr. Jinfinished his preparations,we got into the carand departedto Mount Changbai.


    Hey, where is Ye Chen? And, why didnt Master Lewith us?When Mr. Jin saw that I wasthe driver,hedidntlookpleased. He fumed and took out his phone to call and reprimand Ye Chen.


    I hurriedly stopped him. Li Mazihassomeproblemsat home. He asked Ye Chen to help him solvethem. Mr. Jin,doyou mind?


    Hahaha, we are brothers now. Theres no need to speakpolitely. Mr. Jinughed and started to call me brother. He was truly a Northeastern man,generous and amiable.


    The mountainridgesin Changbai werecovered in snowall year-round, and they crossed three Northeastern provinces. Mr. Jins favorite hunting area was a small mountain on Changbai mountain ridge. It was called Cloudy Peak.


    On the way there, he told me more storiesabouthis life. Im a pureblood Manchurian, a descendant of the Aisin Gioro royalfamily. After the copse of the Qing Dynasty, we changed our family name to Jin. Then, he self-mocked,If I were born a few hundred yearsearlier, I could be a prince.


    Iunderstooditnow. Mr.Jinwas from the bloodline of the Aisin Gioro family. He could be Hong Taijis descendant! Thatwaswhy Lady Abahaihad torturedhim!


    When we arrived at the foothills of Mount Cloudy Peak, it was twilight. Fortunately, Mr. Jins business covered arge area in the Northeast. There were some people from his subsidiarypany here. They werepreparing the tents for us on the mountain.


    After dinner, Mr. Jin couldnt wait anymore. He pulled meand askedme to go to the mountain. He gave me abeautifullycrafted horn bow. Now is thetime small animalse out to find food. Its easy to spot the prey!


    It was cool to hunt in the cold wind.Iwas surprised to see that he was so invested in his hobby. I received the bowand admiredit for a while. I felt my interest in hunting growing. We brought several bodyguards with usand enteredthe mountain.


    The afterglowinthe horizon dyed the clouds red. The rushing waters from the stream reflected on the wall of the mountain. Together, they created a magnificent picturethat unfoldedin front of my eyes.


    I felt infatuated with the scene.I closedmy eyesasI wanted to imprintthe imagein my head. Suddenly, I heard the wind tearing. My eyes flew open.I saw that Mr. Jin had just shot an arrowandhit a wild rabbit. The rabbit convulsed at its spot. Then, itstopped moving.


    Mr. Jin, your archery skill is so good! I couldnt help but appraise him.


    Heughedheartily.Haha, Ihavegood luck! You should try, too!


    Men always found it interesting to y with the sword or the bow.Sincehe was urging me, I also tried to shoot. I got nothing. I could onlyfort myself that each person has his expertise


    Mr. Jin shot some more small animals. When the sky waspletely dark, we returned to the campsite. People then set upabonfire to roast the meat.


    After a whole day of hunting, Mr. Jin was finally satisfied. Hewentto his tent to rest. The other bodyguards also found their spotsand slept.


    As for me,I was still awakeand waitedin my tent.


    Mount Changbai was the sacred mountain of the ManchurianImperialFamily. Every year, the Qing Emperor would take his important courtiers to this ce topray.SinceDorgon was a Manchurian Prince, of course, he had some attachment to this mountain.


    I was certain that he would showupto do his worship here. That was why I had agreed to go hunting with Mr. Jin.


    Compared to waiting for him passively, it would be cooler topushthe snake to leave the cave.


    I became anxious as I heard snoring from thetent next to mine. I lifted the fabric of my tent to check the sky. The moon was round and bright. I was more certain that Dorgon would show up!


    Ghosts andspiritswere afraid of the sun, but they had a strange obsessionwith themoon since the full moon would help them absorb the moonlight energy much better.On afull moon night, many wandering ghosts and lone souls woulde out for a walk.


    Sincethe bow had beenrepaired, I was afraid that Dorgon would kill Mr.Jin today. I decided to watchover histent. I didnt know why, but I suddenly fellintoaplicated mood.


    I wanted to finish Dorgon as soon as possible. However, I was afraid of facing him. Itcouldbe because Ifeltsorry for Lady Abahai. I took a deep breath and decided not to thinktoomuch about it. Now, I just had to wait patiently.


    A momentter, I heard rushing footsteps outside the campsite. It was midnight and we wereout in thewild. I pulled myself together quickly. I turned and found Ye Chen.


    Why are you here? Where is Li Mazi? I felt surprised. I didnt expect to see him here.


    I was surprised because I had discussed specifically with Li Mazi that he would take Ye Chen to Mount Changbai to arrange the formation to eradicate Dorgon beforehand.SinceYe Chenhadehere, it meant they had finished arranging everything.


    Li Mazi had sent Ye Chen to notify me while he stayed at the spot. It wasnt his working style.


    Weve arranged everything. However, we couldnt light up the candles. Master Li saidsomething was wrong, so he sent me here to find you, exined Ye Chen.


    I was bewildered at first. But then, I got it. I had asked Li Mazi to prepare the Five Elements Great Formation at the spot Dorgon would likely appear,as markedin the drawing I had given him.


    Dorgon was much stronger than his mother, soanormalformation couldnt trap him. Thatwaswhy I had asked Li Mazi toe here first tomake preparations.


    The Five Elements Great Formation was an advanced formation that required the location to have mountains, waters, and woods.


    The mountainrepresentsMetal. The small stream or riverrepresentsWater. Wehadtreesfor the Woodelement, and the soil underneath represents Earth. Now, we needed Fire!


    Thatwaswhy I had advised Li Mazi to bring some candles. We could make some fire from the candles.


    However, I had miscalcted the nature of tonights weather. The full moonwouldattract Dorgon, but it would alsoattractcountless wandering ghosts in Mount Changbai.


    Aghostcould be troublingLi Maziandkeeping him from lighting up the candles. I was worried about Li Mazi now. There were a few times hehadnt been able to deal withthe wandering ghosts in the mountains.


    SinceDorgon hadnt arrived, I asked Ye Chen to watch Mr. Jin and told him to call me if something happened. Then, I started to dash toward the formations location.

 Chapter 549: Five Elements Formation vs. Fiery Bow

    Chapter 549: Five Elements Formation vs. Fiery Bow


    At this critical moment, time was of the essence. I dashed at my maximum speed on the snow for half an hour, but I couldnt find Li Mazi.


    <em>Where did Li Mazi go?</em>


    <em>Moreover, there is no stream in this area. How could he cast the Five Elements Great Formation? Did Ye Chen show me the wrong way?</em>


    While I was puzzled, Li Mazi called me. As soon as the line went through, Li Mazis scream reached my ear. Little Brother Zhang, where the hell are you?! Mr. Jin is here! Ye Chen and I have to hide in the Five Elements Great Formation to protect our lives. Hes possessed. Hes so strong. The bodyguards cant subdue him!


    What did you say? I was shocked. You mean, you are with Ye Chen now?


    Yeah, if you linger there, our lives would be over


    After listening to Li Mazi, I thought I could cry.


    <em>Shoot</em><em>, I</em><em>was</em><em>tricked! That Ye Chen</em><em>wasnt</em><em>the real one!</em>


    However, I hadnt sensed Dorgons aura on him. Did a ghost in the mountain impersonate him?


    While thinking about this, Li Mazis voice came from behind me. Little Brother Zhang!


    Instinctively, I turned and saw Li Mazi and Ye Chen supporting Mr. Jin, who was unconscious. They walked toward me.


    If Li Mazi hadnt called me, I would have believed the people in front of me were the real ones. If they wanted to impersonate Li Mazi and y with me, I would go along with them! My hand slowly moved to my hip. I wanted to see what kind of ghosts they were!


    Those werent normal wandering ghosts. Otherwise, they wouldnt be able to transform into particr people. When they came closer, I pretended to help them. Then, I abruptly shed the Sirius Whip while reading the Big Dipper Sirius Spell!


    The three people in front of me didnt expect that I would take action first. In just a blink of an eye, the Sirius Whip hit them. They screamed and fumed into ck smoke. Then, they turned into white shadows and fled.


    I looked at those white shadows in a daze. After they disappeared from my sight, I finally pulled myself together. Those freaking things werent ghosts! They were the three badgers!


    I had heard that there were many animals, like wolves and badgers, that had cultivated and be monsters on Mount Changbai. They often transformed and pretended to be humans to trick the hunters and eat them. I had finally gotten a chance to see them.


    If it were a normal day, I would go after them and capture them all. However, since Li Mazi was in danger, I had to give up this thought.


    Although I wasnt afraid of those badger monsters, I was worried that they would cast some illusional magic and waste my time. Resolutely, I decided to invite a spirit to help me travel.


    Since I had brought all of my assets with me, I was soon able to invite a wild ghost to carry me. This wild ghost had a fierce face with a build of two or three meters. He was probably a Yaksha who guarded this mountain.


    The ghost carried me on his back and ran fast. I closed my eyes to sense my surroundings. A cold wind howled past me, and my hair was blown backward. I felt my scalp tingling.


    The Yaksha stopped after a few minutes. I opened my eyes and looked around. There was a flickering candlelight.


    It had to be the candle Li Mazi had lit for the Five Elements Great Formation. However, there was just a short distance between us, so why didnt the Yaksha bring me there? I looked at him and saw fear in his eyes.


    I guessed he had sensed Dorgons aura and didnt want to take the risk. I sighed and offered him a drop of blood to let him go. Then, I strode toward the light.


    From a distance, I heard Dorgons crazyughter. Haha, the sky does have eyes! Tonight, I will kill all of you to take revenge for my Erniang!


    I followed the voice and took a few steps forward. I saw Mr. Jin. He was wearing the Qing dynasty soldier uniform, drawing his bow. There were many drawings on his face.


    Although I didnt understand the Manchu characters, I knew he wanted to make a sacrifice. Dorgon hade here to worship the sacred mountain!


    Li Mazi and Ye Chen were shivering. They were hiding in the Five Elements Formation. They were holding the lit candles, which were enough toplete the Five Elements along with their surroundings. The power of the Five Elements moved like a big wok that covered and protected the two of them. If they didnt do this, Dorgon would soon get what he wanted.


    However, Dorgon didnt want to let the Five Elements Great Formation stop him. He drew the bow and shot a fiery arrow. The arrow pierced through the void in front of Li Mazi, making it shake a little bit.


    Fortunately, the candle in Li Mazis hand wasnt blown out, but it had only weakened. The smile on Dorgons face froze. Right after that, he acted like a maniac and continuously shot arrows at Li Mazi. While shooting, he shouted, Ill kill all of you. I wont let any of you live!


    I was even more frightened. When the bow was in Abahais hands, she could only give Mr. Jin a headache or make him restless. However, when it was in Dorgons hands, it could shake even the Five Elements Great Formation. Moreover, since the fiery arrows came in waves, the candles could be put out!


    If the candlelight was put out, the Five Elements Formation would be deactivated. If that happened, let alone Li Mazi, even I wouldnt know how to get out of this alive.


    At the moment the candle in Li Mazis hand was blown out, Dorgon changed his target and aimed at Ye Chen. Fortunately, they had brought many candles. They would be able to endure things for a while.


    Dorgon seemed to recognize the situation. After shooting for a while, he stopped and shot me a dark nce.


    Oh shoot. It seemed he had noticed me.


    My heart sank. I clenched my jaw and took a few steps forward. I called Li Mazi and Ye Chen, Theres no need to be afraid as long as you can keep your candle burning until the break of dawn!


    Then, I grabbed my Sirius Whip and cautiously looked at Dorgon.


    I had nned to let you live one day longer, but if youe to my door, Ill let you taste the Sacred Fiery Bow of our Great Qing! He almost yelled at me. Due to his wrath, his eyes had be blood red, and his face was twisted.


    It appeared he had a deep grudge against me after I had forced his mother tomit suicide. At this moment, I didnt want to look him in the eye.


    Li Mazi saw my strange expression. From his spot, he screamed, Little Brother Zhang, get a hold of yourself together! If you lose, we will lose all of our lives!


    Youre courting death! Dorgon screamed. Then, he drew his bow and shot at me. I reacted fast enough and managed to dash aside to dodge the attack.


    Since my speed was fast, he couldnt hit me even after several arrows. I exhaled, thinking that he wasnt as fierce as I had imagined. As long as we could resist until the morning, we would have a chance.


    However, he seemed to get my idea. He changed his target. This time, he shot himself. The arrow hit the middle of his thigh, and blood spurted at the wound.


    You can hide, but he cant! Dorgon sneered. Then, he shot another arrow at his other leg. He shot himself while possessing Mr. Jin. Soon, he would kill the poor man!


    It was obvious that Dorgon was about to kill his hostage. My heart sank and my mind went nk. I couldnt think of a solution. However, I couldnt just stand and watch Mr. Jin die in front of me. I shouted, What do you want?!


    I want to kill you all! Dorgon pulled the string of his bronze bow and shot at Mr. Jin one more time.


    Seeing Mr. Jin bleeding hard, I felt somewhat desperate. There was no way to negotiate with Dorgon. His only request was our deaths, but we couldnt satisfy him!


    While I didnt know what to do, Li Mazi rushed out of the formation and bumped into Dorgon. Then, he seized the bronze bow.


    Since Dorgons focus was on me, he couldnt react fast enough. However, he was much stronger than Li Mazi. He grabbed the bow and started to pull it against Li Mazi.


    Instinctively, I thought about storming forward to help Li Mazi. However, Li Mazi screamed, Little Brother Zhang, donte here. Set up the formation! Hurry!


    Li Mazi wanted to hold Dorgon back and buy time for me. He wanted me to use the surroundings to set up the formation one more time to capture Dorgon.


    However, he wasnt Dorgons equal opponent. After a few seconds, Dorgon took back his bow. Since his anger had arisen, Dorgon punched Li Mazi, sending him directly to the ground. He then pulled the string of the bow and aimed it at Li Mazis head!

 Chapter 550: The Great Comradeship

    Chapter 550: The Great Comradeship


    At thismoment, it was toote to stop him. I had to stand and watch Dorgondraw thearrow and pull the string!


    Luckily, Li Mazis reflexesweregood. He immediately cocked his head to one side and sessfully avoided the fatal shot.


    However,hewas stillhit at his shoulder. The fiery arrow burned his shoulder,which lefta charred area. Li Mazi screamed in pain.


    Through his gritted teeth hesaid, Why are youfreakingstanding idle there? Move!


    Ptui!As soon as he said that, he spat blood. Dorgon shot another arrowathim.


    Ye Chen saw the dangerous situationand leftthe formation. He grabbed Dorgons bowand pulled it as he screamed at me. He wanted meto take action.


    Damn it! I cursedasDorgon was beating theliving daylightsout of them. Then, I looked around. There weremountainsand trees, but no water. Without water, Li Mazis Five Elements Great Formation couldnt work well.It was no wonder it was broken so easily!


    When arranging the Five Elements Great Formation, one must pay special attention. If one of the elements representing the Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earthismissing, the power of the formationwillbe greatly reduced.


    At thismoment, I couldnt care much. I relocated the formation and sat down cross-legged. Afterclosing my eyes, I started to read the Five Elements spell to activate the formation.


    However, it was frustrating that I couldnt activate the Five ElementsFormationbecause there was nowater!


    Li Mazi and Ye Chen had blood all over their bodies now. They couldnt resist for a long time.


    LittleBrother Zhang, run! Run as far as you can! Help me take care of my son and daughter! Li Mazisaid with difficultyas he spat blood.


    When he recognized that I couldnt activate the formation, he asked me to run away. At the same time, he clutched onto Dorgonin an attempt to trouble him and deviatehis aim. It was the first time I saw Li Mazi act like this. He wasnotafraid of death.


    It was ourradeshipthe higher form of friendshipthat made usstaytogether throughlife and death. It made Li Mazi willing tosacrificehis own life.


    Brother! My nose felt sour. I gritted my teethand lookedat Dorgon.Hewas also looking at me. His eyes showed his content and disdain.


    Ill risk my life with you! I didnt believe that I couldnt activate the Five Elements Great Formation. I took out a dagger and cut my finger. Using my blood, I drew a ring in the middle of the formation then four arrows extending from the ring, which pointed at Mount Changbai, the virgin forest, the earth underneath, and the river in the far distance respectively. Moreover, with the Yang me in my blood, I had gathered the five elements sessfully!


    I read the spes my blood continuedto drip into the ring. The more blood the ring had, the farther the four arrowscouldextend.


    This formation had been activated by my blood. I was thrilledand readthe spell faster and faster. I wanted to make the Five Elements Great Formation cover Mount Changbai in itsentirety. I wanted to see how Dorgon could escape!


    When I began to shiverdue totheshockfromblood loss, the four arrows started to glow. At the same time, a big glowing ring emerged above Mount Changbai.


    Then, I heard countless people screaming and crying. Deep in my soul, the pain was so extreme that I felt like a hundred or a thousand mice were nibbling my brain and my heart.


    The attacks were made by the wanderingghosts within the coverage of the light ring of the Five Elements Great Formation. Theywere attackingthe formationto escape. It was the first time I had set up such a colossal formation, and I finallyunderstoodwhy my grandpa had kept reminding me tonever stay in an expanding formation.


    Before I could deal with Dorgon, I had to endure the attacks from theother ghosts and monsters! SinceI hadnt thought about this crucial point, I had to endure it now.


    Gradually, the feeling of having mice nibbling my heart subsided. It meant the ghostswere eradicated.


    I was exhausted.The beads of sweat on my forehead were as big as soya beans. I shiveredand feltso cold. It was asthough I wasin an icechamber. I began strugglingas I readthe spell. My eyes felt so heavy. I wanted to sleep.


    Soon, the light in front of me disappeared. Li Mazi and Dorgon were gone. I felt like I was inthe middleof chaotic space.Feeling exhausted, I closed my eyesand fesleep.


    My grandson, wake up. Dont sleep, my grandson! If you sleep, you will never wake up again. Before Ipletely lost my consciousness, I heard my grandpas voice. My eyes flew open, but my grandpa wasntanywhere to be seen.


    The ring of light was still there but it was dimmer. Dorgon didnt have the mind to take care of Li Mazi and Ye Chen. I didnt knowwhen it had happened,but he had left Mr. Jins body. He was spinning and floatingin the air.


    It seemed my grandpahadnte here. It was my love for my grandpathathad awakened me right before my death.


    I felt somewhat lost, but when I saw Li Mazi and the others lying on the ground,asense of responsibility arose in me. I pulled myself together and started to read the spell.


    At thismoment, Dorgon and I were inaback and forth situation. However, I knew I couldnt endure things for a long time.Nowwas myst chance! I bit the tip of my tongue and spat my essence blood into the ring of light in front of me!


    With a swift rattle, the Five Elements Great Formation in front of me glowed brightly, which illuminatedthe surroundings asthoughit was broad daylight.


    Dorgon was struggling. Then, he halted. After a terrifying scream, his soul perished. I gave a reluctant smile. After the ring of light scattered, my body felt so light. My eyesshut.


    When I resumed my consciousness,itfelt like everythinghad beena dream. I heard noises, butbesidesahazy white space in front of me, I saw nothing else.


    I heard Yin Xinyue crying. Myeyesflew openall of a sudden. I found myself in a patient ward in the hospital.People were standingaround my bed.


    I saw Yin Xinyue, Li Mazi, Mr. Jin, and Ye Chen.


    Whats wrong? I tried to get up from the bed, but my head felt so dizzy. I had toshakeit a few times.


    Yin Xinyue hurled herself into my chestand weptloudly. Jiulin, you woke up. I thought you would never wake up.


    Yin Xinyuelooked weary. There were dark circles under her eyes. Li Mazi and the others also looked tired. Moreover, I recognized that the wounds on their bodies had rtively healed. It turned out I had been unconscious for half a month!


    Yin Xinyue was still crying. The doctor said if youdidntwakeup soon, youwould bea man in a vegetative state.


    I was scared, but I didnt regret it.The worst consequencewas livingin a vegetative state.However,if I hadnt created the ughtering formation, Li Mazi and the others would have been killed.


    Peoples lives were neither long nor short. The important thing was to live with responsibility and courage!


    It was simr to when Li Mazi had decided to sacrifice himself to save me.


    It was the most preciousqualitya person possessed. It was the kind of great friendship andradeship that differed us from animals.


    SinceI had woken up, I didnt want to trouble Mr. Jin anylonger. Moreover, Iwasnt hurt that much. I just needed time to heal my internal wounds.We left the Mount Changbai area after that.


    Mr. Jinwanted me to stay with himand treat me for a while. Their familyfeltso gratefultome. However,sinceI insistedon leaving, Mr. Jin gave me the bronze bow.


    At the same time, when Mr. Jins motherlearnedthat Yin Xinyue was my fiance, she gave her a gift that wasnt ordinary at all. It was apair of carved golden bangles made of pure gold. The inside was made of agate.


    Mr. Jins mother said that it was the Jin family heirloom,an itemthe imperial family used to treasure.


    Sinceshe was so persistent, I asked Yin Xinyue toeptthe gift. In return, I didnt ept Mr. Jins payment. It seemed that after this business case, I had earned myself another good friend!

 Chapter 551: Something Strange About the Wedding

    Chapter 551: Something Strange About the Wedding


    After I returned home,Itookanother half month to fully recover. Then, I started to contact Chuyi,Senior Shu, and all the people I could!


    The reason was thatI wanted to get married!


    Yin Xinyue and I had witnessed the love between Li Mazi and Chuchu, andthen his lovewith Ru Xue. Their little daughter was already learning how to walk.


    Yin Xinyue had alreadyhinted to methat she wanted to get married, butI had pretendednot toget it. At that time, Iwanted toget married after my businesswasstable enough. However, after Dorgonscase, Yin Xinyue became anxious.


    She was afraid of waiting for me. She was afraid that one day, I would nevere home. We decided to get married whenwe returnedhome.


    I looked at her seriousexpression and feltdeeply touched. I had known her since the bone ne case. She had been with me through many deadly situations. If she hated my profession, she would have left me already.


    If she didnt mind it,there was no reason for me to hold back.No matter whatthe future had in store for us, I didntcare. I just needed this current happiness.


    Thatwaswhy,as aperson whohadalways tried to live a low-key life, I pushed it a lot this time. Not onlydid I contactthe big shotsI knew in this business, I even invited Li Mazis friends and Ru Xues distant, very distant rtives! I just wanted to give Yin Xinyue a wedding she would never forget!


    I dreamtof my grandpa the night before the wedding day. He fondly looked at meand smiled. My good boy! Ive been gone for quite a long time, and youvefinally done something right! After you get married, you should hurryandgive me a littlegreat-grandson!


    After I agreed with him, he patted my shoulder then left. My grandfatherwas not someone towaste time.


    On my wedding day, the entire antique street was packed. It had never been so crowded before. People whom both I knew and didnt know hade to congratte me.We received arge sum of money. A small red envelope could contain several thousand,or even hundreds of thousands ofrenminbi. Li Mazi wasthebest man, and he was also in charge of receiving the red envelopes.His smile looked likea blooming flower the entire time.


    There was nothing toin aboutas Mr. Jin had taken care of everything himself. To makethe ceremonymorevish, he used more than ten Lamborghini carsasmy wedding parade cars.


    After everything was done, I sat down at a table to drink with Chuyi,Senior Shu, and Zen MasterBaimei.


    It was my grandfather who had introduced me to this profession, butit was the merit of these threepeoplethat Iwasalivetoday.


    Chuyi had always helped me. Zen MasterBaimeihade to rescue me more times than I could remember. Even the despicableSenior Shu had taughtmewell andcared about me as ifI was his grandson.


    I guessed my new marital status had changed mymood. I took a few cups and made use of the alcohol effect to callSenior Shugrandpa.I didnt know ifSenior Shuwas drunk or not, butI saw himcrysilentlyashe talkedto me.


    It was a rare time for us to sit together and chat. After the wedding, my friends and rtives gradually left. I pledged my heart that Iwouldtake care of Yin Xinyue and treat my family well. If possible, I would meddle less with otherworldly items.


    However, therewas a saying that went,Sometimes when you dont look for trouble, troublees to you!


    After they all left, Li Mazi and I sorted things out. We madea listof my gifts.The main reason wasthathuman rtionships were builtonmutualcourtesy. I needed to remember this list to give them simr giftster.


    After listing the gifts, I was surprisedto seethe gift the Zhang family in Jiangbei had given me. It wastheembroidery of a cute boy and girl, andthe threadused was made ofgold and silver. I checked and found that the seal stamp on the fabricstatedit was dated from the years of Hongwu during the Ming Dynasty.


    It was unexpectedly an item from the early Ming Dynasty, whichwas wortha lot. This time, the Zhang family seemed to have bleda lot. This embroidered picture carried the blessing of having a precious child.


    It seemed the Zhang family had always looked down on my family line, but they hoped that mydescendantswouldextend the Zhang family. No matter what, we all came from an ancient family. I repaid the favor by sending the bronze bow to Gold Tooth. It was my gift to the seniors of the Zhang family.


    However, there was something strange. After we finished making the list, there was a strange jade hairpin left.


    This jade hairpin was exquisitely made. It felt cool inmypalm.The fancy feature of this hairpin wasthered phoenix inside. Itlooked like the phoenix was born inside the rough jade before they made it into a hairpin.


    It was awesome. At first, I thought it wasamodern art item. However, it was a real antique that had at least one thousand years of history.


    If someonegiftedussuch a precious item, that person should have a closertionshipwith me. I med Li Mazi for not remembering the name of the person who had given this big gift!


    At first nce, Yin Xinyuetookan instant likingto the jade hairpin. She picked it and put it in her hair bun. Before we went to bed, she smiledand asked, Can I keep this hairpin?


    Itlookedbeautiful on her. However, I didnt knowwho had given it to us. Its okay, but you shouldnt wear it outside of our home.


    All right, okay Yin Xinyue nodded, but she didnt sound pleased.


    She didnt often act like this. I thought she liked the hairpina lot. I regrettedtellingher not to wear itas my wordsseemed to have displeased her. I changed my words immediatelyand toldher that she could wear it whenever she wanted. Then, I pulled her under my body and started to devour her like a hungry wolf.


    I thought she would be cheered up the next day. However, shecontinued to look displeased.


    At first, I thought she was mad at me because I didnt want to let her wear the hairpin. Or, that shehadthe post-wedding blues. I thoughtshe wouldfeelbetter after a few days.


    Thatnight, I got up due to an urge to use the bathroom. I lifted the nket. Yin Xinyue wasnt in the bed with me.


    I thought she was also in the toilet. Ileft the bedroomto check and saw that the light was off. When I switched the light on, I found Yin Xinyue sitting alone on the sofa.


    She was wearingatraditional red wedding dressand hada thickyer of white powder on her face.It was even scarierbecauseshe was frowning as if she was suffering from something very painful. She didntnoticemy presence even though I was standing next to her.


    Yin Xinyue, are you okay? I tried to get her attention. After our wedding, I had felt that something was wrong with her. Now I knew shehadaburdenonher mind.


    She got herself together and nodded at me. However, she didnt say anythingand walked tothe bedroom.


    I was afraid that she would sneak out again, so I pretended to be asleep andidon the outer edge of the bed. She didnt leave the room that night.


    The next day, Li Mazi and Ru Xue came for lunch. While eating, the couple kept muttering to each other.


    Hey guys, is there something wrong? I asked.


    Li Mazi shook his head.


    When Yin Xinyue went to take a shower, Li Mazisaidin a serious tone,LittleBrother Zhang, dont you feel something is wrong here? I think my sister-inw looks so strange.


    Thatsright. After the wedding, Xinyue seemedtohave besomeone else. Every move ofhersis so elegant and ssy. It doesnt fit her cuteandstubborncharacter, added Ru Xue.


    I just smiled.Oh well, shes my wife now. Having good senses and behaviors are required to build a family, right?


    No,thats not what I meant


    Li Mazi came close to me. When Yin Xinyuewasnt payingattention, he lowered his voice and said,I think my sister-inwis pestered bysomething foul.


    I immediately recalled her strange actionst night. I was bewildered. It was true that shebecame quietand gloomy after our wedding.If she only treated me that way, Icould understand. But now, even Ru Xue, her bestie, thought that she was actingstrangely. There should beaproblem!


    Li Mazi and I excused ourselves to leave the antique shop to buy some cigarettes. I told him aboutthe situationst night. Li Mazi patted his thighand said in a mocking voice,Hey friend, you are always quite sensitive, but when things happen to you, youbemuddled.


    What do you mean?


    Think about how my sister used to be and howshe lookstoday.Im certain that therewassomethingstrangeamongst the gifts you got. Moreover, Imguessing itmight bethat strange jade hairpin!


    Li Mazis words had woken me up. It seemedthatever since Yin Xinyue put on the hairpin, she hadnttakenit off!

 Chapter 552: Princess Taiping

    Chapter 552: Princess Taiping


    Todiscover ifthe jade hairpin was really meddling with us, I waiteduntilYin Xinyue was fast asleep to pull the hairpin out of her hair. I locked it inasafe then went to bed.


    It waster than midnight whenIheard footstepsfrom the living room. I thought it wasathief. I woke up and looked around. Yin Xinyue had disappeared again!


    I turned on the light in the bedroom. The safe where I had kept the jade hairpinhad beenopened.


    It seemed the probleidwith that jade hairpin.


    I couldhave just takenthe hairpin while Yin Xinyue was sleepinganddestroyed it. It would have put an end to this case. However, I had already formed a bad habit of being curious to learn about the origin of the otherworldly item before solving it. At least, the spirit in the jade hairpin hadnt harmed Yin Xinyue yet.


    Moreover, from what Id observed, the spirit could be a resentful married woman. Otherwise, she wouldnt pull a sad face all day long.


    I didnt disturb Yin Xinyue but tiptoed to get the Sirius Whip. Then, Ihid behind the door to observe her.


    She was sitting on the sofa and sighing from time to time. Eventually, she opened the door and left. I hurried to follow her. She seemed to knowher destination clearly. She was headingtoward the suburban area.


    When she reached the suburban area, she moved faster. I was worried about her so I also elerated my speed.However,I carelessly stepped on atwig.


    Yin Xinyuehalted, thenturned to look at me. A strange smile hung at the corners of her mouth.


    Ithoughtit was strange, but not because it looked scary to me. Quite the contrary, this smile was bright and beautiful. However, it was another womans smile, not my wifes!


    At this moment, I was flusteredanddidnt know what to do. Yin Xinyues eyes rolled to the back of her head. Then,she fainted. I hurried to pull the jade hairpinoutof her hair then carried her back home.


    Throughoutthe entire night, I stayed by her side to watch her. Nothing else happened. However, the next day, Yin Xinyue had a fever. I made a ss of charm water and fed her. She graduallygotbetter.


    When she got up, the first thing she wanted to do was find the jade hairpin. She looked as if she would kill me if I didnt give it to her!


    I considered it, then gave her the jade hairpin. I had secretly asked Li Mazito watch Yin Xinyue tonight. I wanted to know what she wanted to do, after all.


    At night, I pretendedto besleeping. Yin Xinyue was lying next to me. Sheslept as though she knew the n Li Mazi and I had prepared.


    Soon, I heard her gentlesnores. Iexhaled. Itexted Li Maziand askedhim not to wait and watch outside. He could go home to rest. Then, I drifted into sleep.


    I didnt know how long I had slept when my phonerang.The call had woken me up.I picked up the cand saiddrowsily,Whos this?


    Dude, how can you still be sleeping?! Your wife is out here! Li Mazi sounded hurried. I reactedand reachedto my side. Yin Xinyue had disappeared again.


    Damn it! I punched the bed. Li Mazi, please follow her! Then, I put on more clothesand rushedout of the house.


    Soon, I saw Li Mazi. He was dozens of meters behind Yin Xinyue.When he sawme, he threw me a fierce look. LittleBrother Zhang, you must listen to your brother this time. We have to break that jade hairpin. Youre married and have a familynow!


    It was the first time Li Mazi had talked to me as though he was my elder brother.Sincehehadmarried thrice, hewas qualifiedto give me a lesson.


    In terms of protecting his family, he had done well. I nodded.After bitingmylip, I made up my mind. This hairpin hadtormentedmy wife a few times. I shouldnt show mercy to it anymore.


    After half an hour, we reached the riverbank. Yin Xinyue didnt lookas thoughshe would stop here.


    Ohshoot, does she intend to jump into the river? Li Mazis eyes bulged. My eyes turned red. I didnt care about anything elseandeleratedtoward her.


    Sigh. Yin Xinyue faintly turned and looked at the two of us. She shook her head reluctantly then jumped into the river.


    Fortunately, the water wasnt rapid. I jumped and easily caught her.


    I felt her body turning heavier and heavier. It seemed there was an endless force trying to pull her down. I was lucky that I had kept the Sirius Whip at my waistthe entiretime. I hurried to withdraw the whip and coiledit around Yin Xinyue. Iwasfinally able to pull her up easily.


    At the moment wereachedthe riverbank, Li Mazi took the jade hairpinout ofYin Xinyues hair. I didnthold backnow. I held the Sirius Whip in one hand while the other hand madeahand seal. When the Sirius Whip had umted enough magic power, Ished it at the hairpin.


    We all heard a scream. A woman wearing a wedding costume with a phoenix cor on her head floated from the jade hairpin.


    Inmon sense, when a ghost was hit that strong, she would flee or stay to take harsh revenge on me. It was different this time. The woman just hovered above us.Besides looking at us withher gloomy expression, she didnt do anything else.


    Why are you standing there? If I hadnt stayed upallnight to watch her, my sister-inw would havebeendead bynow! urged Li Mazi. He saw that I was in a daze, so he thought that Iwas feelingsorry for the ghost.


    I pulled myself together. Li Mazi was right. Before I slept, I had asked him to go home and told him there was no need to watch her. If he had listened to me, Yin Xinyue would have


    Dont me me. Igaveyou a chance Isaid tothe wedding dressed ghost. I raised the Sirius Whipand readtheBigDipper Sirius Spell.


    This female ghost looked vulnerableasshe didnt have the power to attack back. TheBigDipper Sirius Spell could smash her soul. Before I couldsh my whip, Yin Xinyues voice came behind me. Honey, dont hurt her


    I turned and found that Yin Xinyue was awake.Apartfromher pale face, she looked okay.


    No, we wont discuss this! Dont you know it almost killed you? The me of anger arose again in my heart.


    Yin Xinyue said resolutely, It was me who decided to jump into the river. It had nothing to do with her!


    What? I was bewildered. Li Mazi wore the same expression.


    Honey, she was just a woman who desired love. I pityher a lot.All hermen ditched herprotestedYin Xinyue. Then, shetold us the female ghosts story.


    The jade hairpin wasanotherworldly item. Li Mazi and I werent wrong about this. However,it didnt seem thefemale ghostwantedto harm anybody. For a few days, she had been telling Yin Xinyue what she had experienced.


    She was the famous Princess Taiping, the daughter of Empress Wu Zetian. From her early childhood, she was smart and beautiful.


    Inmon sense, a noble, beautiful,and smartprincess like her should have a happy marriage.Sadly, her marriage was dramatic!


    At first, she married Xue Shao. In the end, she married Wu Youji. She had married thrice. In each of her marriages, she had always craved love. However, from the beginning to the end, she was just a tool for them topete for power. She was left badly wounded.


    Princess Taiping had worn the wedding dress three times, but she had never been in love once. She had been rolled into the tornado of the desire for loveandshe could never escape from it. In the end, she died alone, which made a wisp of her soul dwell in the jade hairpin she loved the most. She had been subtleas she waitedfor her love.


    I felt somewhat sad after listening to her.It was nowonder why Yin Xinyuealways worethe wedding dress. It was the saddest segment of Princess Taipings tragic life.


    Yin Xinyue was affected by Princess Taipings emotions. Thatwas why she wanted toendher life by jumping into the river.


    Everything had happened because of love!


    I suddenly recognized that I had to thank Princess Taiping. If Yin Xinyue had felthappy, she wouldnt have been affectedby PrincessTaipings fixation.


    She wanted tomit suicide because deep in her subconsciousness, she didnt feel safe. It meant I was far from a true life partner to her.


    In the end, since I neither wanted to hurt Princess Taipingnorlet her affect other women, I decided to send the jade hairpin to a nun temple.


    Shewouldnt be able toaffect the nuns who had determinedly left all of their rtionships in the mortal world. Aftera few years of listening to their prayers and mantras, perhaps shewould be able tosee through mortal love like them. It wouldbe goodkarmafor me, too.


    Our lives resumed to calmness after that. However, Li Mazi and I had be more cautiousthan ever before.


    We had solved the jade hairpin, but wehadno clue about the person who had left the hairpin.


    Whocould thatperson be?Washe lurking inahidden corner, watching us?

 Chapter 553: The Drawing of a Beautiful Woman in Green

    Chapter 553: The Drawing of a Beautiful Woman in Green


    After the jade hairpin incident, Li Mazi and I wereconstantlynervous. Weremainedcautious for many days to see if the one that had gifted me the jade hairpin woulde. However, after a long time, no one had shown up. It seemedtheyhad vanished into thin air.


    It was exactly thekind of thingthe people from the Longquan Vi would do.When you are careless the most, they wille to take your life!


    We decided to stop receiving cases. We stayedidle and rxed in our shop. As I had plenty of free time, I found a recorder and recorded my touching encounters with otherworldly items. I wanted to send my story to my friend, who was a writer.


    Today,whileI was talking about the Red Barbarian Cannon, Li Mazis despicable face suddenly emergedbeside me. It scared thecrapout of me.Iunconsciouslythrew the recorder at his face.


    He squeakedand lookedat me with his aggrieved, small eyesWhen he saw that I didnt react,he immediatelycedbig lunch boxes on the table. It turned out he wanted to drink some wine with me. Hed brought braised beef, stir-fried bacon with mushroom, and tworge boxes of lobsters and rice.


    The smell of the food made my mouth water. Mystomach growled. I suddenly recognized that I had been telling my stories for hours. I shook and twisted my sore neck. Then, Ipicked up a pair of chopsticksand dugin.


    LittleBrother Zhang, on the way here, I spotted a treasure Li Mazi knocked his chopstick on the table. He was tryingto sound mysterious.


    I didnt buy it. If you want tosay something, do itquickly.


    Li Mazi knew me well. He chuckled then told me about the situation.


    On the way here, he had walked by a vendor on the street who often sold antiques.As forthe antiques on his stallWe all knew about this in our business. Thatwaswhy I pouted when Li Mazi came to this part.Im not interested in counterfeits.


    However, Li Mazi still sounded very interested in it. I saw a drawing. It even has a poem.


    Wow, since when have you been interested in poetry?Is ita brand newhobbyof yours? Hey, whatwasthe painting ofthebeauty yousawthere?


    Li Mazi shot me a nce. LittleBrother Zhang, that poem was written by that Last Rulerorsomething like that. I checked the writings. They are 90% authentic. This time, perhaps wecanhavea big harvest!


    When Li Mazimentioned the LastRuler, I remembered the famous historical figure, Li Yu. He was the Last Ruler of the South Tang State.Since ancient times, not many emperors hadposed poems.Only Li Yu was worth mentioning and worthy of appraisal.


    Herearesome of his verses:


    If you ask me how much I worry,


    Its just like a river flowing eastward in the spring.


    How much do we know about peoplesdreams?


    However, there werent many real pieces of artworkleft behind byLi Yu. He was thestruler of his state. He was poisoned to death, and no one knew who could possess his artworks. If it were Li Yus real writings, how could it be in a sideway antique stall?


    Li Mazi saw that I didnt believe him.He dropped his chopsticks and pulled me up. Then, he usheredme to that stall to have a look.


    I thought it was okay to go with him. It was just a walk afterourmeal!


    That stall isnt far from the antique street. After twentyminutes of walking, well be there.


    When we saw the stall, there werent many customers. Some people passed by, Theyasked for the pricethenleft.


    That painting is held with a bamboo stick. Its a simple painting, though. Theres a rockery and next toitis a beautiful woman in green clothes. Shes smiling lively. On the left is a Ci[1]that reads:


    Light mist envelopes the dim moon and bright flowers,A perfect night to go to her darling''s side.In stocking soles, she treads the fragrant steps,And carries in one hand hergold-threadedshoes.They meet by the south side of the painted hall,And trembling fall into each other''s arms."It''s hard for me to creep out like a servant,To teach my darling the recklessness of love."


    I knew this was the Ci Li Yu had written for Queen Zhous little sister. The beauty in greenhad to beYoung Lady Zhou.


    ording to unofficial history, Young Lady Zhou had a strange obsession with the color green. Her clothes and even the decorations in her pcehad to begreen. Otherwise, she would get mad. She had created the trend once. Moreover, from this Ci, we knew her identity without digging further.


    When this Ci was written, Young Lady Zhousoldersister was on her deathbed. Before she died, she wanted to see her little sister for thest time. Young Lady Zhou was summoned to the pce.


    Whenshe arrived at the pce, Li Yutook a liking toher.The sneaky couple had an affair right under the eyes of Queen Zhou, her sister.


    Li Yu was an aplished king. While taking care of his dying wife, he could create such poemsfor hislittle lover.


    However, I didnt know if it was just a hallucination, but I felt a strange magical power from that picture. I felt attracted to it.


    The vendor saw Li Mazi andmeobserving the painting for quite a long time. He knew his chance hade. He came and greeted us. Boss, you have keen eyes! He appraised as soon as he approached us. This painting isanauthentic piece of art fromthe Last Ruler of the state of South Tang,Li Yu! Its uniqueonthe market. Look at the painting and the background


    Before he could finish his babbling, I interrupted him and asked for the price. Evenif this sort of antiquewasreal, it would have differentprices ording to the circumstances.


    For example, if this was Li Yus Ci If you ask me how much that I worry; Its just like a river flowing eastward in the spring,it would bea veryvaluable antique. However,this Ci was about his love affair,so itdidnt have much value.


    The vendors eyes rolled. His face was happy. Its rareforyou to like something in my humble stall, sir. Illgive you a big discount. It should be soldforthirty thousand renminbi. Illgive it to youfortwenty thousand renminbi.


    I sneered. He thoughtI had money to waste! This painting was a high-quality counterfeit, and this man wanted torip me off! If I didnt want to seethe magical power behind this picture, I wouldhave ignored him directly.


    With bright eyes, I looked him in the eyeand said, Three thousand.


    When I sawhis unwilling eyes, I added, I alsoworkin the antique business. Weknow the valuesof things. I know this price is profitable for you already. Do you want to sell it or not?


    Then, I pulled Li Maziand turnedaround to leave.


    Seeing me leave, the vendor grabbed my harm. Oh sir, we should bargain when we buy things, right? How about five thousand?


    I looked at himand saidnothing.


    The vendor became restless. Four thousand. No more bargaining! When I collected it, I got itforthat price. I have to make a profit. You know that, sir.


    I chuckled. Okay! Ill take a step back. Three thousand and five hundred.


    The vendor sighed.All right, all right. Three thousand five hundred. Sir, youre good at bargaining!


    He keptiningas he packedthe painting.


    Soon, I got the painting.I paid then left.While holding the scroll in my hand, Ithoughtit was strangely heavy as if it contained something else.


    As soon as we got into my shop, Li Mazis bright eyes gazed at the painting in my hand. Hey, if weholdan auction for this painting, how much do you think itwillbe worth?


    I couldnt hold it anymoreand toldhim that it was just a counterfeit.


    Li Mazi didnt buy it. He hadnt given up. I showed him some traces of the forgery work, and he lost all of his hope rightatthat minute.


    He sighed for a while then suddenly jumped to me. If you knew its a counterfeit, why did you buy it?


    Because this painting gives me a strange feeling. Isuspectits an otherworldly item. I turned and slowly spread the painting on the counter.


    I had to say that the forgery work of this painting was a great sess. Whether it was the handwriting or the material, it was almost perfect. However, a counterfeit is a counterfeit. Although the Xuan paper of this painting wasnt bad, it was the low-grade type among the other types of Xuan paper, which had a low content of mulberry fiber.


    As Li Yu was the Ruler of the state of South Tang, the Xuan paper he usedwasof top quality. The Xuan paper had originated from the Tang Dynasty, and it immediately became the symbol ofthe royal family.


    Before I could study the painting thoroughly to see if it was anotherworldly item, a young man around twenty years old rushed into my antique shop with a panic-stricken face.


    Master Zhang, please save us! As soon as he entered the shop, he got on his knees. With tears and nasal fluid all over his face, he grabbed Li Mazis armand beggedfor help.


    Li Mazi wore a puzzled faceand pointedat me. Dude That is Zhang Jiulin.


    The young man looked embarrassed. However, he hurriedly hugged my legand criedeven louder.


    Calm down. Tell me what happened first! I pulled him up and guided him to have a seat. I poured him a cup of tea. He finished the cup in one breath. Then, he looked at me with his redandhelpless eyesbeforetelling me the situation.


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ci_(poetry)

 Chapter 554: The Terrifying Haunted House

    Chapter 554: The Terrifying Haunted House


    The young man was called Shen Haoran. One month ago, he had gathered with hisfriends for drinks. As they were all young and inebriated, they began to y the dare game. He couldnt remember who had suggestedtheidea, but in the end, they all went to the famous haunted house in the area.That night, all of them were drunk. No one remembered what had happened.


    When theywokeup, they found their entire bodies covered with scratches. It seemedlike some dog or cat had attacked them withitsws. They thought it was from astray cat, so they didnt pay attention.


    As they hadleftthe haunted house intact, they took in the fresh air and felt it was really exciting.


    Then, when he came to this part of the story, Shen Haoran seemed to recall something. His hands holding the cup trembled. We thought we would go to that haunted house one more time the next week. And,we agreed not to drink this time to see who would be scared themost! But then,something happened to Orange


    Orange is a girl whohadjust turned eighteen. She dropped out of school after junior high. Every night, she would hang out with us at the bar. Butonenight, she didnte. We thought it was strange. Then, Oranges mother, asingle mom, came to us and told us that Orangehad turnedcrazy! We were worriedandwentto her house. We saw Orange with ruffled hair. She washolding a painting. She stroked the painting and looked so obsessed with it. It seemed the paintinghadsome magic, said Shen Haoran.


    I suddenly had a strange feeling. However, it soon disappeared. I noddedand askedShen Haoran to continue.


    Master Zhang, you dont knowit, butOranges face looked so horrible at that time. She didnt have a bit of color on her face, and her eyes had rolled to the back of her head.Do you know Sadako from The Ring? Yeah, she looked like that ghost. Shen Haoran took in a deep breath.


    What painting is that? I asked.


    The situationscared thecrapout of us. We didnthave a clear lookat the picture, but I knowthere was someancient calligraphy, answered Shen Haoran.


    It wasapicture Orangetookfrom the haunted house. They didnt think it was a big matter. Unexpectedly, bad things had happened afterward.


    Li Mazis eyes sparkled. Hehadthe same ideaasme. That picture was an otherworldly item.


    What happened after that? Li Mazi couldnt waitand urgedShen Haoran to continue.


    Oranges mother saw that her daughter has been admiring the painting all day long withouteating or drinking. She soonturned as thin as a skeleton. She made up her mind and hit her daughter until she fell unconscious. She took the painting and burned it said Shen Haoran.


    Burned it? I frowned. All the otherworldly items had a spirit and that spirit would never let someone burn it easily. Was that painting not an otherworldly item?


    I knew it wasnt that simple. Otherwise, Shen Haoran wouldnt havee here to ask for my help.


    Indeed, after pausing for a moment, Shen Haoran continued,It wasnt justOranges mom, but we also thought that everything would be all right if we burned that painting. However, when Orange woke up the next day, she became crazyand rushedout of the house to find the painting! She kept mumbling something indistinctive. But she didntavoidthe vehicles on the street. Shewasalmost run over many times. Her mother was so worried. She kept watching her daughter. However, bad things still happenedOne night, at around midnight, Oranges mom thought that her daughter was sleeping, so she alsowentto take a short nap. However, when she opened her eyes, Orange was gone. Oranges momwentto the streets to find her. Eventually, she foundOrangeat that haunted house. She was bleeding, so she tookher to the hospital. Untilnow, Orange hasntwokenup yet.


    Except for Orange, Shen Haoran also said that theyhadanother friend called Along.Hewasalso actingstrangely these days. He didnte out to meet them. Every day, he locked himself in his room anddidnt even want to pick uphisphone.


    Shen Haoran was worried that they were being pesteredby something, so hehade toask for my help.


    My heart froze. These young people didntpay attention tothedangerous games they were ying. If they didnt seek death, they wouldnt die!They had probablyprovokedapowerful otherworldly item. Thatwas why all of them got pestered this time.


    Usually, if I could ignore this sort of otherworldly item, I would ignore it, especiallybecauseI had justgottenmarried.


    Shen Haoran got on his knees again. He poundedhis head on the ground tobegme. My heart softened. I agreed togoand take a look.


    Li Mazi and I sorted our bags then left. We would drive our car.


    When I walked out of the shop, I didnt know why but my intuition told me to grab the painting I hadcedon the counter. I putitinmy bag.


    When the car drove off ofWuhans highway, the road became worse. Shen Haoran felt much betterasLi Mazi hadtoldhim dirtyadult jokesalongthe way. Hewas even inthe mood to tease Li Mazi.


    While driving, I carefully assessed Shen Haoran through the rearview mirror. Shen Haoran was a handsome young man with awell-builtbody. His hair was dyed blonde, and he had anear-piercing. At first nce, he looked like a Korean movie star from a magazine.


    I suddenly got an idea and blurted, Hey little Shen? Are you in love?


    Shen Haoran was dumbstruck at my sudden question whilehe was jokingwith Li Mazi.He shook his head.


    Do you like some girl?


    Shen Haoran nodded, but then shook his head.


    I didnt get it.Shen Haoran then exined that he liked a girl from an upright, ssy family but that her family didnt agree to let them be together.


    I smiled and stopped askingand focusedon driving. The road soon became quite rough. It felt so bumpy. I had to put all of my concentrationintodriving. Thatwas why I didnt know what Li Mazi and Shen Haoran were excitedly discussingintheback.


    Later,Li Mazi tried his best to push mefrom behindand take the wheel. That was when Isuddenlywokeup.


    LittleBrother Zhang, are you crazy? I asked you to stop! Li Mazi shouted at me hysterically as if his life was being threatened.


    I was bewildered, but as he had shouted at me, I instinctively stepped on the brake.When the carstopped, I recognized that I had almost hit someones house on the side of the road. I was scared.


    Then, I realized something. There was a t andwhite face stuck on the windshield. It seemed this white face had made me drowsy and almost crashed my car!


    The face looked t like a piece of paper. There was no nose or mouth, butapair of open eyesthat gazedat me.


    I felt my legsturnintojellyas I was facingthe white face. Sweatbeaded over myforehead. Li Mazi didnt look good, either. His eyes opened wide in fearas he lookedat the windshield.Histemperfrom earlierwas gone


    Shen Haoran waspletely frightened. He shoved his body into Li Mazi. His face at the others crotch.


    I didnt have the strength to care about him.The instantI wanted to draw my whip, I found that the bag I had put on the passenger seat was gone.


    I didnt haveenoughtime to think. I pulled theprayerbeads I hung in my car and heldthemin my hand.


    That white face wasnt simple to deal with. I had been bewitched inadvertently. If it werent for Li Mazis quick wit, the three of us would have died in a car crash!


    I felt strange. These days, it was rare to encounteraghost or evil spirit in the city area, let alone a very powerful one.


    Wasthis the spirit Shen Haoran and his friends had provoked?Could it be that itwanted todeal withus before we couldreachthe ce to meet up with it?


    Little Shen, is your house far from here? I asked but didnt turnaroundto look at Shen Haoran.


    Shen Haoran shivered. Theres at least half an hour more.


    My heart sank. It seemed this white face wasnt the spirit Shen Haoran had encountered.


    LittleBrother ZhangLi Mazi and Shen Haoran huddled together. Li Mazis voice choked with sobs. What should we do now?


    I didnt answerand heldonto the Buddhistprayerbeads. If my memorywascorrect, this chain ofprayerbeads had been blessed. It was the only sacred item we had now.


    That t, white face was still on my windshield. Itdidnt even wiggleand continued to gazeat me.


    I started the cars engine and slowly drove a few meters. The face disappeared. I slumpedin the seat.Right asI exhaled in relief, a murderous aura wafted toward me from behind. I pulled myself togetherandinstinctivelyloweredmy head. That murderous wispblew overmy headand flewaway.


    I focused and saw it was a button. I turned my head around to see. It was from Li Mazi! His shirtwas missinga button, and his right hand was still inathrowing position.


    Shen Haoran was petrifiedand lookedat Li Mazi.At thismoment, he didnt even dare to gasp for breath. Let alone him, I was also stunned.


    Seeing me turning around, Li Mazi released a series of lowughs. It wasas if he had sputum stuck in his throat.


    I didnt think muchand bitthe tip of my tongue. I spatblood on theprayerbeads. Then, I raisedthem and hitLi Mazisforehead.


    Li Mazi reactedquickly. He seemed to have read mymind. His body flexibly moved aside.


    At the moment our lives were at stake, Shen Haoran, who had been petrified, suddenly grabbed Li Mazi.


    After the m beads hit Li Mazi, his body turned soft. Then, heslumped onto Shen Haorans back.


    I gave Shen Haoran athumbs-up. I hadnt expected that this young man would be of help at the critical moment.


    At thismoment, I heardanear-splitting horn from behind us. I checked the rearview mirror and found that our car wasparkedacross the street. It wasblocking thenarrow street.


    The cars behind us were blocked, too. I immediately turned the wheel to adjust the car. Then, we continued with our trip.


    Through the corner of my eye, I saw my bag on the passenger seat. Itsatthere quietly as if it had never gone missing.


    If Li Mazis shirtwasntmissing a button, I wouldhave thought thateverything that had just happened was a hallucination.


    Forthe rest of the trip,no other strange thingshappened. We finally reached the town where Shen Haoran lived.

 Chapter 555: A Little Secret

    Chapter 555: A Little Secret


    Since he had been scared out of his wits earlier, Shen Haoran didnt want to take us to the haunted house no matter what.


    I shrugged and asked Li Mazi to find a motel to rest first.


    After the incident, I didnt dare toleavethe Sirius Whip. When I got on the bed, I took out the Sirius Whip from the bag and put it at my waist.


    Li Mazi was watching TV next to me. He didnt remember that he was possessed. I didnt want to scare him, so I didnt tell him about the incident.


    However, to assure the both of us, I gave him the Yin and Yang Umbre. After adhering a few talismans on the door to the bathroom and the window, I felt much better.Right whenI was about to zipupmy bag, I touched somethingthat felt likea scroll. It was the painting I had bought today.


    SinceI was bored, I expanded the scrond cockedmy head to one side to study it. I felt it looked different from thest time I saw it, but I couldnt tellwhat was different about it


    Li Mazi sawthat I had broughtthe painting with us. He pretended to be amazed. LittleBrother Zhang, you really like this beauty in green, dont you?


    Hemadea face at me.After looking at this silly brother of mine, my mood was gone. I shot him a fierce nce and rolled the painting to put it away. Ithought about goingto bed.


    As I was the driver, I was weary now. I easilyfell asleepnot long after Iiddown. However, I couldnt rest well. A tandwhite face keptlurkingin mymind.


    I had spent the night with shallowsleep. When I got up, I couldnt pull myself together, and I had aslightheadache. Li Mazi got up looking refreshed as though hehada good sleep.


    I envied himand saidto myself,This rascalsure issilly.If you say hes brave, hecouldpee on himself whenfaced withaghost. But, if you say hesa coward, he couldsleep pretty well under any circumstance.


    I could tell that the incident from yesterday hadnt impactedhim. He even turned to me and asked why I had roon eyes.


    I red at him. We collected ourbelongingsand left the room. However, when we got out of our room, we saw Shen Haoran.


    Shen Haorendidnt sleep wellst night. I could tell sincethe dark circles under his eyes were even darker than mine. Helookedhaggard. He had brought usbreakfast in a stic bag.


    Li Mazi and I finished the steamed bunsquickly. Then, we decided to y Poker. We asked Shen Haoran to y with us, but he was restless and anxious. Heattemptedto get up and leave a few times. I had to exin to him, From the encounter with the white face yesterday, I know we are going against something fierce! We should wait until noonwhenthe sunlight is the strongest. If we go to the haunted house at that time, it will be safer.


    After listening to me,Shen Haoran still couldnt focus on the game.However,he didnt bother us anymore. At around noon, we ate something then headed to the haunted house.


    This town wasnt big. Somepeople came to greet Shen Haoran. It seemed Shen Haoran and his friends were a band of thugs here.


    We had walked for around twenty minutesbefore turningata deserted street. Eventually, we stopped at an upleted house. I lifted my head to assess the structure. I found nothing.


    Besideslooking old, this house was cold and deserted since nobody had lived here for a long time. There was nothing strange about it. I didnt find a wisp of Yin energy here.


    Letsgoinside! My chin motioned toward the house. I thought we shouldnt make a lot ofassumptionshere. There were times we couldnt see anything from the surface, but there should be something mysterious inside.


    Shen Haoran hesitated when he heard that we had togoin. He lingeredanddidnt want togoin.


    Li Mazi was behind him. He pushed hisshoulderandboldly urged, What are you afraid of?Now isthe time when we have thestrongestYang energy duringtheday. Thosefoulthingswont dare toe out!


    I shot Li Mazi a nce but didnt expose him. No matter what, half of his words were brags. There was nothing for me toment on.


    After listening to us, Shen Haoranloweredhis head in silence. He acted as if hed lost any hope. Then, he resolutely pushed the door of the haunted house.


    The interior of the haunted house was as normal as the other houses in the countryside. There were old-fashioned chairs and a table. The floor had white porcin tiles. Therewas astaircase in the cornerthat connectedto the second floor. This was a typical vi style in the countryside. There was nothing strange or anything wrong with thegeomancyof this house.


    We went to the second floor and thentothe third floor. I found nothing wrong. Except for getting dust all over our bodies, we didnt collect any helpful information.However, I vaguely felt that something was not right


    I then hadaspark in my head, which I knew was very important but I couldnt grasp it. I simply sat on the staircase and tried to remember the structure of this house.


    Shen Haoran and Li Mazi sawthat I hada serious face. They didnt disturb me.


    I thought about itthenunderstood it. I knew what was wrong here. Shen Haoran told us that they hadcollected an ancientcalligraphy artworkin this house. However, Id checked the interior, and it didnt look like the house of someone who would like to collect ancient calligraphy.


    The attractiveness of artsy in the idea it is conveyed in. Making someone whohasno interest or ideasaboutcalligraphy keep a calligraphy painting was some sort of torment!


    Are you sure Orange picked up that picture in this haunted house? I gazed at Shen Haoran as I didnt want to miss the tiniest expression from him.


    Yeah Shen Haoran sounded ginger. While talking, his eyes subconsciouslyrolled around as if he didnt dare to look me in the eye. I knew hewas hidingsomething from us!


    I refrained my angerand asked, Ivechecked the house. Its just a normal, upleted house. Why didpeoplespreadrumors and say it wasa haunted house?


    Shen Haoran cleared his throat awkwardly andexined to usthe story of this haunted house.


    There was a couplethat livedwith the husbands mother in this house. They hadlived well,butafterthe mother passed away four years ago, strange things started to happen in this house.


    The womanbeganto hear strange noises. At first, the bowls in her cab would fall off the shelf by themselves. Then, the things around the house would move and relocate. Then one day, when the woman got up, she found that her clothes had so many holes.


    Overa long time, this story waschangedfurther, and the people in the town started tospreadrumors that the womanwasnt filialto her husbands mother. Thatwaswhy the dead mother-inw had returned totormentthem


    The couple couldnt bear that other people were pointing at them and rumoringaboutthem. They moved to another ce,which causedthishouse to be abandoned. Afterward, the rumors hadnt stopped, and the housebecameahaunted house.


    After listening to him, I felt betterbecauseShen Haoranhadntlied to me. It was true that after people died, their souls would linger in the mortal world for a while. Since they didnt know that they were dead, they would repeat theactivitiesthey did from when they were still alive. However, this sort of soul was different froman evilspirit. They couldnt harm people.


    Where did you wake up that day in this haunted house?


    When I asked this question, Shen Haorans facefroze. I dont remember.


    My me of anger arose again. I hated those who begged me for help but didnt want to be honestwithme. I turned to Li Mazi. Li Mazi, lets go. We cant put our nose in this!


    Li Mazi saw Shen Haoranblush. He knew that the young manwasnttelling us the truth. Then, he followed meand leftthe house.


    WhenShen Haoran saw that we were leaving, he was so flustered. Master Zhang, I


    I turned and saw the man almostin tears. Tell us. Ill giveyouonst chance! I wasnt a heartless person. I did that to force Shen Haoranto tellus the truth.


    Shen Haoran sat on the stairs. His hands ruffled his hairas he sobbed. After a long time, he said, Master Zhang,st night I told you I likeda girl, right?


    I nodded. Let me guess,you like Orange!


    Master, you sure arent ordinary. Shen Haoran wore a wry smile. Eventually, he toldme the fullstory.


    Shen Haoran liked Orange because she was nice and active. Moreover, his family was rich, so Oranges mom didnt prevent them from being together. However, since Orange was still very young, they would have to wait a few more years before talking about marriage.


    However, as they were both young and impulsive, there were times they couldnt restrain the rage of their hormones. A month ago, his friendobtaineda calligraphypaintingwritten by Li Yu from somewhere. He mysteriously told them that he wanted to show them the painting.


    Since Orange and Shen Haoran had nned to have their private time together,aftertheir friendmentionedthe calligraphy painting, Orange lied to her parents and said that they would go to visit their friends ce and stay there for two days. The n was that after seeing the painting, they would find a ce to spend their time together. No one had expected so many unfortunate things to happen afterward.


    That day, after everybodycame, Shen Haorans friend, who had given a lot of appraisal to the painting, didnt show them the painting. Quite the contrary, he just asked them to drink.


    After a few bottles, Shen Haoran almost cked out. Orange haddrunka lot, too. Their friend then showed them the painting. However, as thegroup of friends wereall drunk, they just recognized itasa scroll painting. No one opened it to see.


    After that, as the alcohol got the best of them, some suggestedyinga dare game, which was tovisit the haunted house! Then, they began to wobble toward the haunted house. However, they soon discovered that the haunted house was just an abandoned house. There was no ghost. They decided to go home.


    Since Shen Haoran was drunk andhad alreadymadens with Orange,heand Orangegged to the end of the team. In the end, they sneakily returned to the haunted house and did things children shouldnt do.


    Shen Haoran suddenly stopped, I dontthink itwasa big problem. Orange and I are going to get married.


    What happened after that? I knew thingshadstarted to go wrong from this part.

 Chapter 556: The Man with Double-Pupil Eyes

    Chapter 556: The Man with Double-Pupil Eyes


    Shen Haoran had fear in his eyes. However, he gritted his teeth and continued his story.


    They got up at around midnight. The effect of alcohol was gone and they found themselves in the haunted house. They were scared and wanted to leave. When they stood up, they recognized they were naked. Shen Haoran got into the mood again and turned totouchOrange. They forgot about their fears.


    But why was that painting there?! Shen Haoran suddenly became frantic. His hands subconsciously moved in the air.


    While we wereintimate witheach other, Orange suddenly touched something. She grabbed it and found that it was the painting our friend had brought. We didnt turn on the light, so we didnt know whatwas inside. Orange even joked that if itwereLi Yus real handwriting, we would bewealthy!


    Idontknow why, butI received the scroll from her and rolled it open. I was so scaredto seea white shadowmove outof the scroll. It stood in front of us and watched us. Orange fainted at the sight of it. I was so scared that I couldnt even move. The white shadow looked at me for quite a long time. I didnt even dare to breathealoud. But that shadow didnt do anything to us,apart frommovingaround us for a long time before disappearing


    He continued, When the white shadow disappeared, IcarriedOrangeovermy shoulder and rushed out of the haunted house. I got a room in a motel that night. When Orange wokeup thenext morning, she didnt look right. I thought she was still scared and didnt pay much attention to it. Since we had lied to her parents, I didnt send her home directly. I took her toanarea near her house and stood thereto watchherenterthe building. After that, I left.However, when Iwentto visit her the next day, I found that the painting we had left in the haunted housewasreturned to Orange.


    After telling me the whole story, Shen Haoran exhaled in reliefand saidthat hewas no longer keeping any secrets fromus.


    Li Mazi was curious. Why did you hide this from us?


    I shot Li Mazi a nceand made a mental notethat this buddy of mine wasan idiot. Since Shen Haoran and Orangewerentmarried yet, he had to hide this secret as he was worriedabout Oranges reputation.


    ording to Shen Haoran, that paintingwasnormal until he unfolded it, which released the spirit inside. It could mean that the spirit had been sealed in the scroll and that Shen Haoran had identallyreleasedit.


    After that, Orangebecamefrail andbony. It was asif the painting had sucked herdry. She had lost her mind, too.


    I thought that Orangesmother''s action ofburning the scroll had enraged the spirit further. Thatwas why it was so angry and was taking revenge on Orange. Orange hadnt woken up yet. With these clues, my eyes brightened. I remembered the white face wehad seenon the windshield. Instinctively, I asked Shen Haoran, That t, white face was the one yousawthe other day?


    Shen Haoran noddedand feltfrightened. Its following me! It wont let me go. People who have touched the painting will die!


    Calm down. Orange hasnt died yet,right? I roared at his face. I couldnt stand hisoutburst.


    Shen Haoran was shockedthatI had yelled at his face.He helplesslysat on the groundand kept quiet.


    Is there anything special about that white shadow? I asked.


    If it were from a painting, it could beahistorical figure. If I knewitsorigin, it would be easier to solve.


    Shen Haoran shook his head. Then, he seemed to remember something. He saidwith uncertainty,It has a pair of strange eyes. It seems that each of its eyes has two pupils.


    Afterhearingthat, myheadbuzzed. I blurted, Hurry! Get back to the motel!


    Li Mazi didnt know what had happened, but he knew it wasnt good news, as I was urging them. He pulled Shen Haoran, and they followedme.


    Eyes with double pupils! The Last Ruler Li Yu of Southern Tang had double pupils!


    The spirit was Li Yu. We got in the car and drove to the motel. I rushed to our room. After opening thedoor, I emptied my bag. Everything was there except for Li Yus painting.


    At thismoment, Li Mazi and Shen Haoran also came in. Looking at the items littered onthe bed, they asked, Whats wrong?


    Its Li Yu!I said helplessly.It was nowonder why he was able to stop us on the road. He was always with us!


    Holymoly! Li Mazi screamed in surprise. Then, he asked, LittleBrother Zhang,wasnt thata counterfeit? Did you chisel a hole?


    Chiselingwas ngin our business. It meant that someone hadmadea wrong assumptionabouta real antiquebeinga fake one and vice versa.


    I immediately turned to Shen Haoran. Youdbetter call your friendsthatwere there that day. AskOranges mother toe too!


    Shen Haoran saw my stern face. He took out his phone and made the calls. He asked his friends to meet up at the hospital where Orange was staying. The hospital in the town wasnt good, and there werent many patients there. Orange was staying in a four-patient ward, butshe was the only patientin the room. When we arrived at the hospital, two of Shen Haorans friends were already there. After a brief introduction, I knew the slender man was named Aqian and that the chubby one was Along. He was thefriend Shen Haoransaid wasunusual.


    Oranges mother weed us with a suspicious face. Shen Haoran introduced me to her.After that,Oranges mother came and grabbed my hand. She beggedme to save Orange. She looked as though she was about to get on her knees.


    I pitied the hearts of parents. Iforted her then asked, Maam, did you really sell that painting?


    Oranges mother looked panicked.After hesitating for a while, she told me the truth. I didnt burn it. I soldthe painting.


    She had wanted to burn it, but when she got out of the house, she saw avendorwho was cryingabout wantingto collect antiques. It suited herpurposeas she had wanted to get rid of the painting as fast as possible. She sold itforthe price of five hundredrenminbi.


    I flinched.She had met the vendor from whom I had bought the painting. Pity my three thousand andfivehundredrenminbi! I didnt expect that it woulde to me.It was no wonder why I felt something wrong about it. It turned out that a spirit was dwelling in it!


    After a while,two otherfriends of Shen Haoran arrived. After a simple introduction, nobody spoke. The atmosphere in the patient ward was somewhat heavy. Although Li Mazi was a despicableman, he didnt know what to sayat thismoment.


    However, it was good for me. I needed to calm down to think about the situation. I faced the windowand satdown. My brain began to work fast. From the moment I had bought the paintingto the momentShen Haoran came to my shop and asked me to help him, everything was so coincidental. It seemed there was somethingbehind this that wasquietly instigating everything


    I had thought for quite a long time, but I hadnt figured outanynew clues.Atsunset, Shen Haoran bought us dinner. After dinner, the sky outside waspletely dark. Everybody tensed up.


    I had given each of the people in the room a talismanand askedthem to keep it with them. Then, I asked Li Mazi to take them to the ward next door.SinceLi Mazihadthe Yin and Yang Umbre with him, the people in his group wouldnt be in danger. Moreover,ifthe Yin and Yang Umbre was attacked, I would know immediately. Withaclose distance, I couldgo thereto rescue themquickly.


    After they allwentto the other room, Istucka talismanontoOrange and sprinkled wormwood powder around her bed. Then, I turned off the light and got on the bed next to hers,coveringmyself with the bedsheet. At the same time, I held the Sirius Whip tightly in my hands!


    Every second that ticked by wasasecond I felt tormented by. While waiting, I heard a lot ofmotions outside. A doctor came to see why the light was turned offand a nurse wanted to check the room. Li Mazi and Shen Haoran stopped them by the door.


    As it wasapproachingmidnight, all the sounds around subsided and gradually disappeared. The entire room was dead silent. My nerves tensed upand my breathing slowed down.


    Suddenly, footsteps came from the corridor. The footsteps sounded soft and slow. It stopped at the door of thepatientsroom. I closed my eyesand usedmy senses to feel someone openingthe door. After the door was pushed open, I heardawomanwhine.


    Her voice was some sort of a smooth melody. However, in this silentanddark night, it sent chills down my spine.


    Since I had already put onaYang Concealing Talisman and my movements wereslow andcareful, I wasnt afraid that I would disturb thespirit. I slowly lifted the bedsheet to see. I was surprisedto seeOrange. She hadbeen sleepingin the previous moment andwas nowleaning against her bedhead, wiping her tears.


    She looked strangely aggrieved. It was enough forpeopletopity her. I hurried to read thesacredtext of Daoism since I was afraid that she could affect me. Then, I continued to observethe situation.


    The white shadow sat next to Orange.It didnt seem thewormwood powderwas ableto affect him. He tenderly looked at her.


    Whats going on? Does he love Orange? Or doeshewantto kill her nowso that they can be a ghost couple?


    Subconsciously, I held my breath. I wanted to see what they wanted to do. I had watched them for quite a long time. However, they didnt do anything other thancry.


    I was a little restless. I thought to myself,You guys dont feel tired, but my neck hurts! Please make a move already!

 Chapter 557: Li Mazi Got Hurt

    Chapter 557: Li Mazi Got Hurt


    The white shadow got up. His strange eyeslooked atme. Ididnthave time to hide. Aftermaintainingeye contact with me for a short time,he turned and was about to leave.


    Ashe was leaving, Orange stopped weeping. Her beautiful face reddened with anger. She crazily shoutedat the white shadow. You left me behind one thousand years ago.Do you want to do that again?!


    The shadow didnt say anything. He didnt evenstop walking. Oranges beautiful face twisted. Her eyesturnedred. It lookedasthoughshe could cry out blood. Her body began to exude a ck mist.


    Muahahaha!Orange suddenly released aburstofear-splittingughter. I was startled.


    Isnt thisthe voice Li Mazispoke inyesterday when we were in the car? Li Yu didnt possess him.Thefemale ghostdid!


    Then, the ghost controlled Orangeandslowly moved to the window. With a hostile face, she screamed, You wont have a decent death! All of you! No one will have a decent death!


    After thundering, she jumped through the window. I was so scaredthatI didnt have time to worryabout them recognizingme. I rolled andgot outfrombehindthe bed like a carp. Immediately, Ished the Sirius Whip at Orange.


    Following a shriek, a woman dressed in a gold color floated from Oranges body. Orange felltothe ground, while theghost flew aside. Herblood-redeyesgazedat me. She clenched her jaw and ground her teeth as though shewantedto tear me into pieces.


    I hurried toceOrangeonthe bed. I anxiously studied the two ghosts.There was no need to mention how restless I was. Both wormwood powder and Sirius Whip couldnt scare them away. I didnt have the confidence that I could defeat them.


    Li Yu didnt look at me. He stooped and looked at the ghost I had hit. His face grimaced and he looked reluctant. I had watched a lot of drama series about Li Yu on TV. The actors who yed him also wore such tender and fond expressionswhile also lookinghesitant and reluctant.


    When the female ghost saw that Li Yuwas looking ather, the red hue in her eyes faded a little. Herfurious faceturnedtender.


    I was shockedand watchedthe new development of this ghostly drama. I thought they had finallyreachedthe romantic moment afteradramatic climax.Butrightat thatmoment, someone screamed in pain in the next room.


    Feeling worried, I rushedoutofthe room. After a few steps, I turned and found that both Li Yu and the womanweregone.


    Before I could open the door of the next room, someone fell into my chest. I turned on the light and found it was Shen Haoran. His face was as pale as a sheet of white paper. He didnt say anythingand lookednklyas if he had lost his soul.However,I was more worried about Li Mazi. I pushed him aside andwentto the patient ward next door.


    Six people were surrounding Li Mazi with panicked faces. Li Mazi was holding a fruit knife in his hand.


    When I came in, the other six heaved a sigh of relief.They remained cautious as they watchedLi Mazi. I turned to checkhim, andI was immediately frightened by what I saw.


    His shirt was open. His bulging veins were twitching, justas if something was swimming back and forthbeneath his skin. His face was twisted, andthe knifein his hand was dripping blood. There were so many bleeding cuts on hisbelly. It seemed he had cut himself.


    Why didnt you guys stop him?! I couldnt helpbut scoldthe other people in the room. Then, Isnatchedthe knife from Li Mazis hand. Before he could react, I hit his temple to knock him out.


    There were six people in this room, but they had just watched Li Mazihurthimself. If I hadstarted fightingwith the other two spirits in the other room, Li Mazi wouldhave beenin grave danger.


    The more I thought aboutit, the angrier Ibecame. I couldnt control myemotions. Li Mazis sudden groansnapped me out of it.I pulled myself together. Li Mazi was still in danger.


    I hurried to helphimlie down. I burned the fruit knife with a lighter for a while to disinfect it. Then, Imadea small cut onhisbelly. Afterward, I burned and melted an evil expelling talisman to make charm water to feed to Li Mazi.


    Then, I put my index finger and middle finger togetherand pressed by the cut onLi Mazisbelly. Frighteningly, ck worms came out from the cut. As soon as theymade contact withthe air, they died.


    After forcing the worms out, I treated his wounds then called the doctor. The doctor was a man with good senses. He didnt ask any questions and justgaveLi Mazi an injection thenwrappedup his hurtbelly.


    Li Mazi, who was always lively and hopped around, was now in bed with a pale face. He wasflinching and looking as though he was in great pain.I really wanted to reprimand those people who had just watched him hurt himself.


    Shen Haorancameinto theroom. Hewas lookingbetter. However, he didnt dare to say anything when hesaw that I had adark face. Since he had kept his mouth shut,I had to ask him first. What happened?


    He hesitated for a long time before telling me what had happened.


    It turned out they were scared, so they didnt turn off the light. The team took shifts to rest. Nothing happened for quite a long time. When it was Li Mazis turn to watch, he suddenly tore his shirt, hisface grimacingin pain. He woke everybody up, so they wanted to check if he was okay.


    However,theythen saw a womansfacehoverabove Li Mazis shoulder. She openedher big mouth, and herblood-redeyes gazed at people,which scaredthe souls out of them.


    Then, something started to move under the skin of hisbelly. Li Mazi was in great pain, but he couldnt make a sound. Beforetheycould do anything, Li Mazi abruptly grabbed the fruit knife on the table and stabbed himself.


    Oranges mother was so scaredthat she shrieked. As Shen Haoran was worried that Li Mazi would harm himself, he ignored his fears. Holding the talisman, he shakily ran to the next room to get me.


    After listening to him, my face turned even darker. IliftedLi Mazis shirt to his shoulders. Indeed, there were two ckhandprintson his shoulders. It seemed the female ghost had pressed on his shoulder.


    It was no wonder why the female ghost didnt move when I hit herearlier. I didnt pay attention, but she had taken the time toe here to hurt Li Mazi!


    Although I was displeasedthatShen Haorans friends didnt even try to help Li Mazi, I knew they were just ordinary people. It was understandable that the ghostwould scare thecrapout of them. With a dark face, I told them, Nothing will happenter tonight. You can rest now.Then, I returned to Oranges room.


    After the incident, Orange still hadnt woken up.Her breaths weregradual, but the talisman on her body had turned into ashes.


    The female ghostwas intimidating beyond my estimation. I took a deep breathand thoughtthat I would have to study her tomorrow. Otherwise, I wasnt sure if Li Mazi and I coulde back this time


    It was after midnight, andI slept as soon as I touched the bed.


    The white face kept showing up in my discontinued dreams. Finally, I sawits appearanceclearly. It seemed Li Yu didnt mean harm to me. I saw him smile at me. The imperial aura on him was outstanding.


    He was walking around and holdinganelegant fan. I followed himas I wantedto see what he wanted to do. The meandering path ledto a gardenwhere a young woman was dancing beautifully. However, I didnt see the womans face. Ifeltshe must be a beautiful woman.


    Li Yu stood asideand smiled. He looked at the young woman dancing. Hisfacewasfull of affection and pain.


    I didnt know what he meantbythis. Why did he want to show me this scene?


    The young woman danced faster and faster. When she spunaround, I could only see herswirling, big sleeves. She looked like she was floating. Suddenly,hermovements halted as if someone had interrupted her. Shendedhardwhile spinning. She fell and spurted blood, her blood slowly seepinginto the ground.


    No,Im not willing!The woman suddenly lifted her headand shoutedat us. The dream went dead silent. Iwokeup with head-splitting pain.Many people were surroundingmy bed, except for Li Mazi and Orangewhohadntwokenup yet. Looking at them, I knew I had just done something weird.


    Shen Haoran worriedly looked at me. Youve been screaming Ehuang something.


    Iunderstoodsomethingquickly.Ehuang, Ehuang...Was that Zhou Ehuang?


    Zhou Ehuang was Queen Zhou, Li Yus first wife. She was famous for her dance that could mesmerize people. Recalling the dance I had seen in my dream, I knew it must be her. It was no wonder she said that Li Yuhad betrayedher a thousand years ago.


    Nomatter howgentlea womanwas,shewould never standthat her husband was having an affair with her sister whileshe was seriously ill!It seemed the female ghost was Zhou Ehuang. Butwhat wasthe role of Li Yu, who had walked out of the painting?


    After recalling that Orange had strokedthe scroll of the painting, I somehow got it.The scroll was the otherworldly item where Li Yudwelled, and Zhou Ehuang just happened to possess Orange!

 Chapter 558: Heartless Li Yu

    Chapter 558: Heartless Li Yu


    SinceI knew the spirits identity, it would be easier to deal with it!


    Zhou Ehuang was agentlewoman. Perhaps she had be a resentful ghost because of the secret affair between her beloved husband and her younger sister. As long as I could solve this, her grudge would vanish.


    I searched online and collected the stories between Li Yu andYoungLady Zhou. However, what I found discouraged me. No matter whether it was the official or unofficial history records, the fact that Li Yu had an affair withYoung Lady Zhouwhile his wife was on her deathbedwas an undeniable event in history.


    After reading the history records, I felt sorry for Queen Zhou. She was a beautiful and talented woman, which made her a heavenly match to Li Yu.It was true that she was his favorite concubineintheimperial harem, butin the end, she was defeated by her younger sister, Lady ZhouYoung.


    Lady ZhouYoungwas fourteen years younger than her. Queen Zhou died when she was twenty-nine years old. How could she beparedtoLady ZhouYoung, who was a bud that was about to bloom at that time?


    I considered the option of beckoning the soul ofYoungLady Zhou. From my dreamst night, I could tell that Li Yu didnt mean harm to me. He was the keyto openingthis case!


    Li Yus soul would appear when the scroll was near. As he had appeared in the hospital, the scrollhad tobenearby. However,looking for that scroll in this vast hospitalwas like looking for a needle in a haystack.Moreover, we could alert people here.


    I didnt know what to do, but then I suddenly remembered that Li Yu didnt just want me to see Zhou Ehuang in his dream. Hewasleadingthe way. There should beahiddenmeaning somewhere!


    I closed my eyes and remembered the route he had taken me. Then. I followed that route in realitybyusing my memory. I was in the in-patient department.The left side of the first corridor was the ce where people received drips.I walkedthrough the infusion area andmade anotherleftturn. I was in ace where people took blood tests.After passing that areabya few steps, I stopped in front of an office.


    It seemed the scroll of the ancient painting was here. It was early in the morning, so I guessed there was no one in the office just yet. Ipushedthe door. It squeakedopen.


    There was a deskinside withsimple decorations. The scroll was cedon thedesk. I wanted togoand pick up the painting, but I was surprisedto seea white shadow sitting there.


    Youre here. When I entered, Li Yuwas smiling andlooking at me.It seemed he was waitingfor me.


    For the time being, I didnt know what to say. It wasnt good to ask him about Zhou Ehuangs weakness.Feeling helpless, I kept silent.


    He started to chat with me as though he was talking with a friend. He didnt talk much. He was weary after one thousand years of torment. He hoped I could help him finish all of these grudges. Then, he handed me the scrond saidgently,Ehuangs weakness is me.


    Then, he turned into a beam of white lightand enteredthe scroll. Immediately, the Ci on the painting emerged in threedimensions. I knew that his spirit had attached to the poem in the painting.


    After dawn, everything resumed to normal. I held the scroll paintingandcontinuouslythoughtabout what to do tonight.


    Zhou Ehuangs weakness was Li Yu. In other words,I needed to use Li Yus spirit tonightto threaten her. But if I did that, Li Yu would be hurt; he couldeven perish.


    I hesitated. I thought it was coincidental at first, but now it was clear to me that Li Yu had arranged everything from the time I had bought the painting to the moment I decided to bring it with me on this trip.


    Li Yu wanted to finish this one-thousand-year grudge, butdidI have to destroy this ancient poet?


    Nothingunexpected happened during the day. Li Maziwokeup. When I saw himteasethe nurse, I knew he was all right. Orange was still unconscious. The doctor checked her and exined that her vital signals were normal. Perhaps she didnt want towakeup because she didnt want to face reality.


    When Shen Haoran heard that, he knew what Orange didnt want to face. The situation they had experienced that night was so terrifying. It was understandable that she didnt want towakeup.


    Iforted Shen Haoran. Dont worry. After wesolvethe spirit, Orange will wake up.


    Shen Haoran smiled. It was the first time I saw a bright smile on his face. I ate something to fill my stomach then returned to the hospital.


    This small town wasnt the capital of the Southern Tang Dynasty in ancienttimes. Li Yu was here because of the scroll. So, if Zhou Ehuang wanted to stay here, sheneededan otherworldly item!


    I took a walk around the hospital anddidnt find anythingstrange. I didnt insist on continuing the search. Instead, I returned to Oranges patient room to arrange the stuff.


    Since talismans and wormwood powder couldnt affect the spirit, this time, I intentionally used a block of brick taken from the Great Wand putit under Oranges pillow. The bricks from the Great Wall represented the Chinese peoples will to resist the foreign invaders, which madethemcarryintimidating power. At the same time, since Queen Zhoulivedinside the pce for almost her whole life, when she saw the brick, she would think it was the city wall, which would keep her away.


    Then, I arranged a pair of mutually engendering and mutually restraining formations at the door and the window.


    I had created theseformationsfrom the information Id read from my grandpas journal. I left the Death gate and the Life gate of each formation open. When the spirit entered the formation, she wouldget throughthe Life gate. At the same time,the Death gate would activate.


    TopreventZhou Ehuangfrom running throughthe Life gate, I deliberately arranged two small formations. This way, I could keep her in the formation and give her time tocatch a breathwhile she was between the two formations.


    After I had arranged everything, the sky outside was dark. I let Shan Haoran dismiss his group of thug friendsas theywere not in danger. Li Yu had told me that Zhou Ehuang could sense his location. She wouldnt go to other ces and cause trouble. It also exined why the female ghost had appeared on our way to this vige. She had sensed Li Yus energy in the painting I put in the car.


    Shen Haoran insisted that he wouldnt leave. I didnt shoo him away but asked him to take care of Li Mazi.


    Then, I opened the Yin and Yang Umbre to protect both Li Mazi and Shen Haoran beforegoingintoOranges room. I took out the scroll paintingand unfoldedit on a table. Then, I used a lighterand burnedthe rim of the painting. Of course, I had controlled the mewell enough notto hurt Li Yu. It wasenough to entice Zhou Ehuang.


    As soon as I started burning it, I heard the window rattle. I grabbed the Sirius Whip tightly in my handand looked atthess-panedwindow. However, after a long time, I hadnt seen the ghost yet.


    I was feeling skeptical and bewildered when suddenly, a pair of icy-cold hands grabbed my neck!

 Chapter 559: A Spring River that Flows Eastward

    Chapter 559: A Spring River that Flows Eastward


    Ihurriedly movedaside to dodgethe female ghost. I fumbled to takeout the wormwood powder,smearingitoverthe wound on my neck. Then, I stood upandcautiouslywatchedthe ghost!


    The female ghosts weaponswereherlong sleeves. In the dreams, her sleeves looked mesmerizing when she danced. However,atthis moment, if sheusedthem, they could take peoples lives!


    I didnt want tofighther head-on. I moved the lightercloseto the paintingand shouted,Calmdown. Do you want your husband to perish?


    Shefroze. However, it was for only a moment. Thenshe continued to attack me even more furiously!Hersleevesmoved into the air. I couldnt even see her shadow, only hermovingsleeves.


    Li Yu,damn you I thought I would go madafterknowing that Li Yuhad overestimatedhis position in Zhou Ehuangs heart. Since she had already be an evil ghost, she didntcare aboutbetraying her husbandor not.


    Dont hesitate! Burn me! I suddenly heard Li Yus rushing voice. It seemed he had made up his mind.


    I didnt wantto. If I burned the painting, his soul would perish. I didnt mind himand continuedto sway to avoid Zhou Ehuangs attack. I threw the Sirius Whip asideasI had already used up its power. Icasuallygrabbed a blood transfusion rack near me.


    This transfusion rack had helped many people in the past. More or less, it had some Yang energy. When I used the rack to stop the ghosts sleeves, she screamed.


    The blood transfusion rack worked. I wielded it harder, butI had to stop after a few times since it was heavy.


    When the ghost saw mestopmy movement, she shrieked and flew toward me. Soon,she pushedme into the corner. I had no way back!


    Ehuang!At thismoment, Li Yu called her. I opened my eyes and recognized that the ghosts long nails were just around ten centimeters away from my forehead. She could pierce through my head intheblink of an eye.


    Li Yus Yin spirit was smiling. He was holdingthe scroll paintingandhovering above the me of a candle.


    Although the small candle couldnt hurt Li Yu, if Li Yu boldly pushedhimself into the me, it wouldnt be easy for him to return unharmed.


    Im so sorry Ehuang! I shouldnt have had anything to do with your sister under the moonlight and left youto diealone in the pce.Your sister was indeedyoung and beautiful, yet you are my only wife.Sigh! Ihaveregretted it. Butby then, it was toote. Why didnt I recognize and treasure you when I still had you with me?If you ask me how much I worry, its just like a river flowing eastward in the spring!Then, Li Yu threw the scroll toward the candle.


    I gawked in shock.I hadnt thought that Li Yu would be that cruel to himself!


    It seemed the female ghost also hadnt expected that he would be that resolute. She screamedanddashed forward. But the scroll had already been engulfed in mes. It fumedrings of dark smoke. Li Yus ghost slowly disappeared as the paintingburned. In the high me, he didnt even flinchand stoodmajesticallyasa king. I admired this man.


    However, as soon as Li Yu disappeared, the female ghost became more frantic. The ck mist became thicker. It coveredme shortly after.


    You all have to die! Ill bury you with him! As she saw that I didnt have anything to defend myself, she didnt hurry to deal with mebut kept howling and roaring.


    I was speechless. Li Yus spirit was forced by her, right? Why did she pour it on me?


    Anyway, I understood thatsinceLi Yus soul had vanished, it was impossible to help Zhou Ehuang ascend peacefully. I hadnt activated the formation earlier because I didnt want to hurt Li Yu. But Ididntexpectthat hewould beso resolute.


    Before she couldattackme, I jumped into the eye of the formation.


    The female ghost gritted her teethand hurledherself toward me. I didnt let thischance slip away. I closed my eyes and read the spell to activate the formation. At the same time, I took out the Peach Soul Flower from my chestand heldit horizontally in front of me.


    The Peach Soul Flowers power wasnot big. However, since it was small, it wasnt an attacking weapon, but a strong defensive tool. As soon as the Peach Soul Flower emerged, a dazzling red halo expanded,which sweptthe ghosts sleeves away. She screeched. At the same time, the PeachSoul Flowers halo faded and disappeared.


    I opened my eyes to look at her. She was wearing a menacing smile. She knew the Peach Soul Flower had lost its defensive effect. I shook my headand gaveup onthe idea of helping her ascend. I activated the mutually engendering and mutually restraining formations.


    From my spotinthe center, two light spheres appeared. They spun and releasedalight that hit the ghost. She was stunnedand lookedat me for quite a long time before instinctively hitting the Life gate.


    Unfortunately, as soon as she broke through the Life gate, the Death gate of the other formation blocked her. Since the spheres were spinning fast,whenshe got out of the Life gate, shefacedthe Death gate.


    Under the silver light, the dark mist on the ghost diluted gradually. In the end, she had no energy left.


    I exhaled. I wanted to ask if she had anyst words. However, before I could say anything, she had run toward the burning scroll.As I watchedthe me devour her, I had a feeling I couldnt describe


    IfLi Yu and Zhou Ehuang had livedduringmoderntimes, they would have been a typicalmarried couple that loved each other a lot.


    Yet, the husband couldnt get over the mortal temptation.He was a typical man.


    Zhou Ehuang could endure her husbands harem full of beauties, but she couldnt stand the affair between her husband and her younger sister.


    In the legend, after Zhou Ehuangknewabout Li Yu and Young Lady Zhou, sheidfacing the wall every day. Untilher death, she hadntnced at her betraying husbandeven once.


    The next morning, Orange woke up. After such a horrible incident, Oranges mother agreedtoher marriage. Shen Haoran stated that I had done him a great favor. He swore that he would stop his thug life andbea responsible husband. Moreover, he asked me to stay to drinkwine at hiswedding.


    Their wedding was small but warm. Li Mazi and Irefusedto sit on the high chairs for important rtives. We sat in a cornerandsilentlydrank. After the reception, Li Mazi and I spent another night there.After thenewly married couple bid farewell,we drove back to Wuhan.


    I brought the remaining part of the painting with me. I would study it further since I didnt understand why a counterfeit could be an otherworldly item. Why didthe Last Ruler, Li Yu of the Southern Tang,chooseto dwellin it?


    Then, Iwentto an expert to check the painting. He told me it was true that the painting was a counterfeit. However, the poem on it was authentic.


    I couldnt hold my emotion after thinking about Li Yu boldly burning himself. He had chosen that way to destroy himself. Deep in his heart, he hadfeltguiltyfora few thousand years. He wanted to be a good husband, but in the end, hebecamea cheater who had broken his wifes heart.


    It was simr toa famous movie stars recent affair. Why did theyhaveto linger in the temptation of beauty for a moment and hurt thepartnerwho had been withthemthrough thick and thin?

 Chapter 560: The Corpse-Chopping Maniac Ghost

    Chapter 560: The Corpse-Chopping Maniac Ghost


    The autumn hade to the Southern area, bringing with it a lot of rainfall. In theory, the water in the rainy seasoncould wash away Yang energy, so many foul things would seize this chance to resurface and wreak havoc. It should be the busiest timeof theyear for me. However, these days, no one came to my shop.


    It was raining, and I was toozy togo out. I could only stay idly in my shopand waitfor mold to invade my body.


    Li Mazi was a man with nohumanity. Two days ago, he was in my shop ying Contra with me. Butas soon as he heard that Ru Xue hade back from her parents house, he immediately transformed into her eunuch. I was now leftalonein my shop. I dranktea to passthetime.


    I sat on my rocking chairandunfoldeda newspaper. I thoughtnewsthese days couldnt bepared to the past. I got only articles aboutgossip, like this star married that starandthe other star had an affair. There was nothing substantive. It wasfreakingboring.


    I threw the newspaper aside. As soon asI was about toget up to stretch my body,Inced ata tarrying title through the corner of myeye. It read,The famous entrepreneur Chen Yiqing in Fujian died bizarrely!


    I had seen the name Chen Yiqing in manynews articles aboutbusiness and the economy. This man was in his early forties. He was an extraordinarily talented man.Along with hiswife, he had created his enormous business, starting itfrom scratch. After only five years, he had created the most famous emerce brand in Fujian. Hispany now sold household appliances. Thepanys annual mutual transactions had reached several billion renminbi. He was ageniusin the industry of domestic household appliances.


    I couldnt help but pick up the paper again to read it. Soon, I finished reading the article, andI frowned.


    Although the picture wascensored, I stillnoticedthat his death was horrible. His body was chopped into fingernail-sized pieces. I was sure it was a revenge case! Moreover, it was strange that the police said that they found no trace of the murderer at the crime scene. Itsounded likenonsense.


    These years,incidentslike this werent new. The market was as fierce asabattlefield. A dispute during a negotiation could be areasonto kill someone. After reading the article, I didnt keep it in my mind and moved over.


    It was beyond my imagination that Chen Yiqing was just thebeginning of a series of murders. A few dayster,something simrhappened again in Fujian. Most of the victims were famousandsessful people. Moreover, the police couldnt find any trace of the murderer at the crime scenes.


    The serial murder cases had created a lot of panic in Fujian! The police issued a statement saying that the murderer was a psychopath thatharboreddeep hatred towards the rich. They hadinvestigatedsome suspicious unemployedand low-ie people. However, before their investigation made any progress, anotherpersondied.


    The newest case had broken the polices assumption about the murderer. The victim this time had an ordinary background.They were almost impoverished,to be exact.


    I flipped through a thick stack of newspapers. Chen Yiqing was killed on October 21st.Anew case happened every day after his death. As of thest case, seven people werechopped to death. The police didnt find any evidence. There were nofingerprints, hair strands,or possible weapons at the crime scenes. They didnt find any suspects in the areaafter checkingmany CCTV cameras, either.


    With my years of experience working with otherworldly items, I noticed these serial murder cases werent simple. It was possibly the work ofamalicious otherworldly item. Otherwise, it was impossible to cause seven deaths without leaving a single trace.


    I held a cup of teaand tooka sip. I thought aboutwhether or not I should proactively join this case.


    The deaths of those victims were even worse than the one-thousand-slice sentences in ancient times.They were literally minced, with the pieces of theirremains asbig as fingernails! The evil spirit behind this could be at the Ghost King level,which was thetype that I should stay away from if I could.


    Given thetrend, there would be more deaths.SinceIhad seen the news, I couldntstaystill. I didnt want my conscience to feel guilty.


    Id thought about this matter for quite a long time. Then, I ced myteacupback on the tableand madeup my mind: No matter what, I had to go and see!


    Before leaving, I called Li Maziand askedhim to keep an eye on my shop while he was serving Ru Xue. I didnt want to return to an emptyshop without knowing who had emptied it.


    Fujian was a coastal province. Moreover, as it was autumn,therewas a lot of rain. When I arrived at Fuzhou, the rain was getting heavier.


    I rubbed my hands and pulled my coat close to me. Holding a dark-colored umbre, I went to the police station.


    The policeman on duty snorted at my exnation of paranormal activitiesdue to somefoul thing. He thought that I was a madman whohadeto trouble the police here. I had to ask him to call the Public Security Department to ask about the cases I had helped them with in the past. The policeman half-believed me. In the end, he decided totakeme to see his chief.


    The leader was a middle-aged criminal policemanwitha medium build. He extendedahand to meand weed me.While shaking his hand, I knew he was good at martial arts. The policeman had a tender face, but there was a longandbig scar that looked like a centipede crawling on his left cheek. It brokehis gentle auraand gave him a touchof cruelty.


    We introducedourselves.I now knew that he was the captain of the Criminal Police Department here. His name wasCaptain Liu Feng.


    I simply told him why Ihadehere. He kept silent for a while, then asked, Mr. Zhang, how big is the probabilitythata foul thing is behindthesecorpse-chopping cases?


    I gently exhaled. If he askedthis, it meant hebelievedme. I thought then answered,Based on the current situation, the possibility could be one hundred percent. Moreover, from the frequency oftheseserial murdercases, there could be another victimtonight.


    After listening to me, Liu Feng excused himself and went outside to make a phone call. When he returned, he put on a serious face. He made me a little nervous. He put his mobile phone backonthe deskand asked,Do you know who I just called?


    I wore a serious faceand shookmy head. I rolled myeyes discreetly andthought to myself,I dont have anysuperpowers. How the heck am Isupposed to know whoyoujust called?!


    Our Chief of the Bureau, answered Liu Feng.


    It turned out he had called his Chief to ask for direction. Unexpectedly, his Chief agreed. Moreover, he had asked the other police stations around Fujian to cooperate with me.


    I was surprisedand guessedthat their Chiefknewme, or that he knew something about my deeds.


    However,nowwasnt the time to think about this. If the Chief agreed to support me, it would be easier to carry out the next steps.


    First, I read the profiles of the seven victims. I needed to knowinformationabout them. The victims had different genders and ages. There was nothing simrabouttheir bodies, either. I also read the oral statement of the victims family members. They were simr. They got up in the morning,sawa lot of blood on the bedalong withthe chopped bodies of their deceased familymembers. Feelingpanic-stricken, they called the police.


    These were the official investigationprocedures. However, the information here was useless to me. I asked to interview the deceaseds families one more time. Captain Liu cooperated with me well. He gave me the addresses and assigned a policeman called Xiaolin to apany me.


    Before we got out of the police bureau, a red shadow stormed into the office despite the policeman on duty standing in her way.


    Itwas a woman wearing red clothes. Her messy hair covered her face. She was wearing slippers, but one was missing.


    There were small cuts on herfoot, and she lookeddisorderlyas she had runinthe rain. While trying to get through the policeman in her way, she screamed. However, asshe was panicking, she couldntproducea fundmeaningful sentence. I caught some words like life and dead.


    We had to stop because of this interruption. We brought the woman to the office and poured her a cup of warm water.


    Thank you, thank you. The woman thanked us. After drinking up the whole ss of warm water, she finally calmed down.She rubbed her shoulders, whichshowedthat she was still frightened.


    Captain Liu sat with a pen in his hand. He askedher for some basic information like her name, age, and address. It would give us the basic knowledge about this woman, and it would also ease her so that she could tell us what had happened.


    Through the womans intermittent voice, we knew she was named Wang Ping. She wasthirty-seven years old, and sheresidedin a high-endmunity not far from the police station.


    WhenCaptain Liu recognized that she could talk normally, he asked, What happened?


    When Wang Ping heard his question, she was startledand droppedher ss. Her eyes opened wide in fear.


    So many people were crying. They cried They wanted to kill me! Wang Ping buried her head into her arms on the table. Her voice turned hoarse and trembled.


    Captain Liu didnt knowwhatto write down. Who wanted to kill you?


    Wang Pings absurd answer alerted me.


    There were so many crying faces They were on my walls, on my closets,and even on my bed. I know they wanted to kill me. I ran away from home.


    Chief Liu and I exchanged looks.It seemed we had the same idea.Wang Ping could be the next victim. I wanted to know more about the situation, so I asked her to go to her house to see.


    Wang Ping didnt want to go home. I had toassureher that she would be all right.She hesitated thenbrought us to her home.


    When I entered her house, I saw a little boy around six or seven years old sitting on the sofa. When he heard the noise, he lifted his head and shot us a faint nce. His face was full of disgust.


    I was surprised.Hes just a little boy. How could he have such extreme emotions?


    Subconsciously, I turned to Wang Ping. As I was just a stranger, the boys hatred wasnt directedatme. I guessed he waslookingat Wang Ping.


    Wang Ping saw the boy and frowned. Boy, go to your room or Ill beat you up.


    The boy said nothingand heldhis head low. He grabbed a cloth tiger doll and quietlywentupstairs. Before leaving, he shot me a nce. I felt so strange. The little boy had something odd in hiseyes, but I couldnt tell what it was.


    Wang Ping gave me a reluctant smile. Please dont mind him. Hes just a kid.


    I smiled and said nothing. The odd feeling grew higher in my heart.


    Wang Ping had rushed to the police station to ask for help and had left herson at home. Then,she threatenedher son right in front of us. I felt a little disgust toward Wang Ping already!


    Anyway, it was her familys business,andI shouldnt put my nose in it. After sheshowedus around, I started to assess her house.


    The living room in this house was vast. Therewerean authentic leather sofa and a crystal coffee tablethat facedan LCD TV. Itupied half the opposite wall. Next to the TV was a photo frame. Isaw a man and aboy. I recognized the boy, who wasWang Pings son. The manwas probably her husband.


    There were two bedrooms upstairs. One was open andthe other waslocked. I guessed the locked one was the boys room.


    After taking one round, I found nothing of interest. I didnt see the crying faces Wang Ping had reported.


    We went back to the living room. I asked Wang Ping to tell us about the situation. Wang Ping had adjusted herself. She had driedher hair andchangedher clothes. I finally saw her face clearly.


    She was thirty-seven years old, butthere was not a single wrinkle on her face. Her skin was well-maintained. Since she was frightened, her smandpale face looked strangely attractive. She could entice men well with such a face.


    I knew my evil desire had arisen, so I had to hurriedly read thesacredtext of Daoism. Then, I pulled myself togetherand listenedto Wang Pings story.

 Chapter 561: Take Off Your Trousers!

    Chapter 561: Take Off Your Trousers!


    Yesterday, she was busy with work and she had stayed up almost the whole night to finish her documents. When she returned to her room, she slept right away. While sleeping, she heardachild crying.


    At first, she didnt mind itand thoughtthatakid in the neighbors house was crying.She soon recognizedsomethingwasnt right. She heard crying everywhere. Moreover,the source of the soundseemed to get closer and closer to her!


    She woke up. As soon as she opened her eyes, she sawthe faceof a crying kidin hercloset. The kid had a very pale face and was crying blood. She was so scaredthat she screamed and kicked the door open. Then, she ranaway from her bedroom.


    Unexpectedly, the living room was even more frightening.The TV, the wallpaper, and even the floorwere full of crying faces.


    She was scared out of her wits.She rushed out of the house and ran to the police station. Thats when she encountered us.


    I frownedand checkedthe sky outside. The night had just begun. Even if there was no sunlight due to the rain, foul things didnt dare toe out so early. I thought the otherworldly item wasnt simple.


    After having asimpledinner, I asked Wang Ping to go to her room to rest.


    She was scaredand heldmy sleeve. She askedworriedly,Those crying faces wille again, right?


    I nodded. When theye, I can figure out how to deal with them. I need them to show up.


    Although Wang Ping was scared, she listened to me and went to her room to rest. I simplystucksome low-level evil expelling talismans in her room. These talismans werent very powerful. However,theycould protect her life and not scare the spirit that much.It was suitable for the severity of the situation.


    After arranging everything, I hid in Wang Pings closet and left a slit at the door to look.


    Most of her clothes were kept in the guest room. This ce had some clothes she wore at home.Therewas more than enough space for me to hide in.


    Wang Ping was weary. After a few minutes of lying on her bed, her breathing became stable. She even snored.


    I held the Sirius Whipand closedmy eyes to regain myposure.At this time, I waspletely concentrating on themotion around.


    It always felt like a long timewhenever I had to wait.I kept checking my watch. I didnt know why, but I felt restlessas I watchedthe hand of the watchtickby.


    It wasmidnightnow, but nothing had happened yet.I thought it wouldnt show up tonight. When I rxed mytensenerves, I started tofeelsleepy. All of a sudden, I felt like fainting.


    Suddenly, a womans shrill cry woke me up. My sleepy head was clear at that instant. I grabbed the Sirius Whipand rushedout of the closet!


    When I faced Wang Ping, I saw thescaredwoman. She wasgazing at me. I knew somethingbadhad happened. Immediately, I took a quick step forward,turned around, andshedthe Sirius Whip.


    Ahorrible cry echoed in the room. I lifted my head and saw the crying faces on the ceilingand the closet. They wereeverywhere, justasWang Ping had described.


    It was a childs face.I couldnt tell if it belonged to a boy or a girl. The grim expression and thechilds loud criesshould have made people pity it. However, its pale skin and blood tears made peoples scalps tingle. My palm was dampwith sweat. My nerves tensed up.


    There were a few types of evil spirits. There weresomethat you could help ascend, but there were also othersthat wouldnt stop pestering you until you died.When child ghosts became evil spirits, itwould beextremely tough to deal with them.


    I wielded the Sirius Whip and furiously hit one of the faces. The crying face shrilled sharply. Then, it burst like a shatteredmirror and revealeda mess of blood and brain. I refrained from pukingandshedanother face. However, they seemed to be able to grow endlessly.


    After a long time, I was so tired that I had to gasp for my breath. The Sirius Whips power had almost run out. At the same time, those crying faces started to crawl up from the cornersof the room and headedtoward the middle section of the room.


    Wang Pinghid underhernket. She screamed unceasingly. She had almost lost her mind.


    I didnt have time tofort her.As I watchedthe faces shorten the distance between us, I retrieved the Sirius Whipandsprinkled a handful of refined salt on them.


    As soon as the salt hit them, the crying faces sizzled as if they were being roasted on a stove.


    I didnt know if itwasamisconception,but I smelled roast meat. Those faces were smart, though. After they got hit, they shrank and retreated to the ceiling, closets, or wall. They waitedlikeatiger lurking for a chance to snatch their prey.


    Argh!Right whenI had justtaken ina sighofrelief,akids scream came from upstairs.


    God damn it! I cursed. Wang Pings son was still upstairs.


    I quicklyconsideredthings. I thentook out the Peach Soul Flower to protect Wang Pingandsprinkled saltatthe door. Thecriesof the ghost arose again with the sizzling noiseofroasted meat.


    Seizing the chance, I pulled the door open and brought Wang Ping with me. Wetried to rush upstairs.


    The scene outside the room made me gasp for my breath.The crying faces were everywhere. When they saw me, they started to cry and roar.


    Facing several hundred faces crying blood, my headwent nk. I was stunned for a few seconds.


    After beingin shockfor a while, I realized that a few faces had already climbed on my trousers.They toremy musclesas they cried.


    Asharp pain pulled my nerves together. I used the same trickand sprinkledsalt on my legs to expel the ghosts. I didnt have time to worry about my bleeding legsand rushedupstairs.


    Amongst hundreds of crying voices,one belonged to Wang Pings son. He had cried loudly at first. However, during the time I was held back downstairs, his voice seemed to have disappeared.


    I was restlessly worriedand rushedupstairs. I reached the boys room and found that his room was locked from the inside. I took a few stepsbackandkickedthe door.


    I hurried to enter the room. The kid was sitting on his bed. Hisfacelookedsleepy. He looked like he didnt know what had just happened.


    You didnt cry, did you? I was surprised. His fair-skinned face didnt have a streak of tears.


    He shook his headand huggedhis cloth tiger tighteras he cautiously lookedat me. It seemed hehad wokenup because I had kicked the door. He didnt know anything.


    I smiled embarrassedly and left his room, closing the door behind me. However, after a few steps, I recognized that something was wrong. I was sure that I had heard a shriekthat stood outfrom the ghosts cries.


    Did I gettricked? I patted my thigh angrily and rushed downstairs.


    While running, I kept wielding my Sirius Whip, which helped clear a path from the faces that had packed the stairs.


    Wang Pings callsfor helpwerefeeble. When I came to the living room, the ghostly faces were crawling all over her body. Her face had many cuts. Her mouth was open, but she couldnt make loud sounds.


    My heart sank. I hurried to read a spell. The Peach Soul Flower in Wang Pings chest spunasthe activationspell was read. It releasedwaves of lightthat covered and protectedWang Ping.


    The faces on Wang Pings bodyknew it wasnt safe anymore. They hurriedly scattered from her. However,sincethe Peach Soul Flowerhad beenboosted with my spell, how could they escape?


    Ishoutedwhen the spell waplete. All the ghostly faces nearest to the Peach Soul Flower were smashed into wisps of ck smoke, vanishinginto thin air. After Wang Ping was saved, mybeatingheart finallycalmed down.


    When I got upstairs, I felt that something was wrong. The first floor had been submergedwithghosts cries, butitwas dead silenton thesecond floor! It was really strange. However,back then, I was so worried about the boy that I had ignored this.


    After the whole incident, I calmed down. The living room was still filled with the crying of children, which gave me a head-splitting headache. I had to think about how to stop them.


    I had used up the power of the Sirius Whip and I had almost used up all of the refined salt. Since Ihadehere directly from the police station, I didnt bring anything else with me.Feeling restless, I looked around the room to see if I could find anything to defend myself with. Unexpectedly, Isaw something.


    Perhaps Wang Ping hadnt noticedit, either. There was a blood-stained area on her white trousers that she had just changed into when she came home. It meant she wason herperiod!After seeingthe ghostly facestryto swarm us again, I screamed, Take off your trousers!

 Chapter 562: Menstrual Blood Suppresses Evil Spirits

    Chapter 562: Menstrual Blood Suppresses Evil Spirits


    Womens menstrual blood was considered extremely dirty. Not only itcouldforce evilspiritsor ghosts to show up, but it could also force them to leave.


    As we were in an emergency, I didnt have time toconsider politenessasI was worried that Wang Pingwouldn''twant to cooperate with me.


    Fortunately, Wang Ping reacted fast. She was stunned for a moment,but soon, she pulled herself together.After taking off her trousers, she threw thematme.


    I caught the trousersanshedthem atthe ghostly faces near me. The faces shrieked. Then, all the faces in the living room shrilled, and the countless facessurrounding usdisappeared. It was asif they had just receivedan order toretreat.


    It seemed those ghostly faces were just illusions. The otherworldly item should be somewhere in this living room. I got a hold of myselfthen rushedout to chase after them.


    Atthis moment, all the ghostly faces in the living room were gone, butI vaguely saw a ck shadowthat slitheredthrough the narrow slit between the door and the wall. It fled...


    I had done aborious job tonight to seethereal face of the ghost. If I let it flee right now, I would be in great troubleter! I gritted my teethand chasedafter the shadow.


    As it was after midnight and almost dawn, the entire neighborhood was deadly silent. A fewstreet lightsstood against the darkness, which set off the ghostlysilhouetteof the night. To add to this eerie scene,the rain was evenheavier than theevening. As soon as I got out of the door, I was almost drenched under the rain.


    I casually wiped the rainwater offmy face. The ck shadow made a turn into a small alley. I immediately followed it. Most of the roads in this residential area were connected to apartment buildings. After a few steps, the shadowmade another turn.It seemed to be heading to another building. I worriedly dashed after it. Suddenly,I stepped into a hole. Mybodysankimmediately.


    Damn it! Whats thisfreakingpit doing here! I cursed, as I had stepped and fallen into a manhole that didnt have a cover. I tried to grab the edge of the manholein an attemptto get up. However, a sharp pain shot up from my ankle. I guessed I got hurt when I stepped into this hole.


    I turned on the shlightonmy phoneand shone itaround the ce. I was surprisedto seethat it was a sewer.It was strange thatI didnt smell the typical, pungent smell of the sewage.


    This sort of fake sewer was the great invention ofsomecheating contractor. In other words, this construction only had a hole and a chamber. There was no pipe connected to it.


    Although I would snort at this sort of construction cheating,atthis moment, I was d that I wasnt trapped in a real sewer. Otherwise, I would have died!


    After confirming that there would be no danger, I heaved a sigh of relief. I sat down to recover my strength. Although I was worried that the ghostly faces could return to the house to affect Wang Ping, I wasnt able to climb up this two or three-meter tall manholeinmy current condition


    After restingfor a while, I felt much better and my strengthhadrecovered. I stood up and stretched my limbs. I was still lucky that this manhole was built roughly. There were many blocks of concrete here and there. I stepped on them and slowly got out of the hole.


    Then, I ran as fast as I could to Wang Pings house while praying that she was safe and sound.


    Fortunately, when I pushed the door open and entered the house, Wang Ping was sitting on the sofa with a worried face. I exhaled in reliefthatshe was all right. Then, I slumped onto the ground, gaspingfor my breath. After Iregainedmy strength, Wang Ping handed me her husbands clothes.


    I washed and changed into warm clothes. It was almost dawn. Wang Ping cooked me a bowl of noodles. I didnt mind the hot noodles andimmediatelydugin.After devouring all the food,I started to feel warmer.


    When the sky waspletely bright, I walked out to see. The rain had stopped. It should be a sunny day today.


    Since that spirit seemed to be afraid of me, I was certain it wouldnt show up during the day. I exined the situation to Wang Pingand askedher nottoworry. Ifound a guest room to stay in.


    Tonight, there should be a fierce battle. I needed to rest well to fully recover my strength!


    There was only one bedroomon thefirst floor. Naturally, I went to the guest roomon thesecond floor. When I walked past Wang Pings sons room, I vaguely caughtaclue. However, I couldnt figure out what it was.After shaking my head, I went to the next room. As soon as my headtouchedthe bed, Ifell asleep.


    Not after five minutesofyingdown, my phone rang.I reachedfor the phoneand eptedthe call. I asked grumpily,Whois it?


    Mr. Zhang, theres been another murder!


    I sprang up from the bedwhen I heardCaptain Lius calm voiceoverthe phone. I rushed out of the houseanddidnt eveninformWang Ping.


    When I arrived at the police station, Captain Liu was with Xiaolin and a few more policemen. Theywere about to leave the station. Captain Liu saw me and helped me get in the police car. On the way, he briefed meaboutthe situation.


    The one who had reported the murder case was a twelve-year-old little girl. She found her father dead on the sofa in the living room. However, the kid couldntexinthe situationwellenough. The policeman on duty had to ask her a few times to get her address.


    After listening to him, I felt a big, heavy rockpresson mychest. Yesterday, when I saw Wang Ping, I had thought that thoseghostly crying facesweretheevilspirits that had killed the seven people. I hadnt expected that after one night ofstaying up and fighting against that evil spirit, therewould beanother victimfoundthe next day


    Chief Liu sawthat I had keptsilent. He patted my shoulder andforted me. Mr. Zhang, dontfeel rushedor worried. Lets discussthiswhen we getto the murder scene.


    I nodded, but my mind was chaotic.


    After around one hour, the car stopped in front of a vi residential area. Captain Liu showed his police ID card to the security guard, who then let us in.


    The murdertook cein a vige at the edge of this vi neighborhood. As soon as they arrived at the scene, the group of policemen and technicians begantowork. Some hurried to pull the cordons. Some talked andforted the little girl. A group of technicians and policemen started to check the victims remains.


    I put on disposable gloves and shoe coversbeforeentering the crime scene. I checked around to assess the arrangement of the vi and then went to see the body.


    I shook my head in disgust when I saw the blood streak on the ground and the pieces of chopped flesh.


    Although I had oftenmade contactwith dead things,and Id seen dead people before, it was the first time I had ever seen this kind of muttedcorpse. It waschopped into pieces like KFC fried chicken. Inexplicably, I felt a little pressure.


    Then, I went to a forensic doctor who was packing up his tools. I asked,Before the victim died, was he frightened?


    The forensic didnt know my identityand assumed that I was a young criminal policeman. Perhaps he had been working as a forensic doctor for quite a long time that he was immune to seeing corpses. He faintly told me, Its true that the deceased was frightened terribly. Isuspecthe was scared to death before he was minced like this.


    Then, he picked up histoolbox and left. The chopped body was put into a stic bag and carried away. They needed to hurry to find the clues from the victims remains, which would help conclude the case early.


    After checking the entire scene, Captain Liu decided to leave two policemen here to take records. He wantedme to leave with him, but I shook my headand expressedmy wish to stay and join the oral confession recording with the policemen.


    I didnt understand criminal investigations, nor was I interested in this field. I just wanted to stay to see if I could capture some clues from their conversation.


    It was because I found that the cut marks on the deceaseds remainsweresimr to the wounds the crying faces had left on Wang Pings face. They werent big wounds. They were small but there were so many of them. Thatwaswhy they could gnaw the entire body into pieces as big as fingernails.


    Chief Liu agreedas I had insisted on staying. Since there were so many corpse-chopping murder cases, he was so busy that he wished he could fly to move faster. He asked me to take care then left with the others.


    After that, the two policemen started to take the oral confessions from the four maids in this vi. Theywerentreally suspicious. Except for an aunty who was the chef here, the others didnt stay during the nights in the vi.


    Before the auntywoke upthis morning, she wasstartledby the little girls scream. There was nothing in the crime scene that was rted to herorshowed that shemitted the crime.


    The deceaseds daughter was called Yuan Yuan. She wasatwelve-year-oldgirl. She still had a pale face. It seemed her fathers death was a great shock to her.


    As the policemen were afraidof scaringher, they talked softly to her. The girl was still frightened, but her words were clear and orderly. She described how shewentdownstairs and the moment she saw her father dead. Then, she asked the police when they could find the murderer.


    After listening to her, I couldnt help but study the little girl. Her reaction was really strange!Apart fromlooking scared, there was no other emotion on her face. The victim was her father. Shouldnt she be mournful for him?


    Right when I was about to ask her about her rtionship with her father,I saw a small shadowonthe second floor through the corner of my eye. It looked the sameasthe shadow I had chasedst night. I didnt say anything,but broughtthe Yin and Yang Umbre with me andrushedupstairs.


    As the ck shadow had nakedly appeared during the day like this, I didnt dare to be careless. I borrowedapolice badge from a policeman. The police represented justice. Their aura could scareevilspirits.This badgeshould do thework!


    That dark shadow moved very fast.In theblink of an eye, it had crossed the corridoron thesecond floorand movedinto the dark depths. I was worried that it could lurk somewhere to ambush me. I opened the Yin and Yang Umbreand carefully followed it.


    After passing a room, the shadow halted for a while. Then, I heard theughter of children ying.Haha!


    The ck shadow turned and threw me a look. Since the distance was far and the corridoronthe second floor was poorly lit, I couldnt seeitsface. However, I could vaguely capture the shape of a chubby boy wearing coarse hemp garments. He looked around seven or eight years old.


    The ck shadow grinned at me, then turned into wisps of smokebefore enteringthe room through the slit at the door. I was so worried that he would hurt the kid inside the room. I immediately rushed to the room. The door was locked.I knocked on the door, but no one answered.


    I hesitated for a while. Resolutely, I dashed downstairsand askeda maid for the key. She gave me a chain of keys. I didnt have time to find the right one, so I directly pulled her upstairs.


    When we reached the room, no matter how hard I asked, she didnt want to open the door. I knew something wasnt right. I threatened her that if she didnt open the door, she could be guilty as the aplice.Feeling helpless, she had to unlock the door


    However,oncethe door was pushed open, there was no dark shadow inside. Strangely, I had heard kidsying there. But now,there wasnoonein this room!


    I was restlessly worried that the dark shadow had already taken the kid away. I asked the maid to run around to look forthe kid. Then, I headed toward the directionof thethickest Yin energy.


    Unexpectedly, after taking two steps, the maid pulled me backand heldmy arm tightly. She looked frightenedand gazedat me. Then, she spokeand emphasizedeach word. There is no other kid in this house


    I was bewilderedand recognizedthat her face didnt look quite right. After asking her for a while, I learned that the deceased had a son and a daughter. The daughter was Yuan Yuan, the girlwe had met downstairs.Thesonhaddied in this room a few days after his first birthday.


    I felt things were even more bizarre. There were four maids in this house. Whydidnt anyone payattention tothelittle boy?


    How did the boy named Tian Tian die? I asked.


    The maid shook her headand sighedin regret. That poor boy choked on his milk. He was alone in this room. No one had realizedit. When he was found, there was no chanceof savinghim


    Where were his parents?


    The maid sarcastically answered my question.Thatday, his parents were attendingahigh-ss banquet. They didnt care about their son Poor little Tian Tian. When they found him, his body had turned purple. It wasterrible!


    As I had lingered for quite a long time, I knew I couldnt chase after the little shadow.I chattedwith the maid for a while. In the end, Ilearnedthat the owners of this vididne home more than once a week.Every day, they would keep their business in their heads and neglect their familyandtheir children.


    Today, the husband was dead, but the wife hadnt shown up yet.Therewas an eighty percent possibility that she was drunk and resting somewhere.


    After listening to the story of this family, I felt emotional.After thinking about little Tian Tian, who was just months old andwasneglected since his parents were busy with their social party, my heart sank.


    It was justasthe maid had told me. Its the children who suffer from their parents bad actions!

 Chapter 563: Even a Tiger Wont Eat Its Cubs

    Chapter 563: Even a Tiger Won''t Eat Its Cubs


    After writing down the oral confession, I returned to the police station with the two policemen.


    Coincidentally, when we got out of the house, we encountered the victimswife. When she heard that her husband was chopped into pieces, she just noddedand showedthat sheunderstoodthe bad news. She only asked the police to solve the case as soon as possible. She shook her high heels off her feet thenwentto her room to rest. She ignored her daughter, who wasstanding with a helpless face in the living room.


    Ifwedidnt haveproofthat she wasnt present at the crime scene, I would havesuspectedthat she was the murderer


    When wereturned to the police station, I asked to see the victims profiles one more time. I wanted to see if I could find any simritiesbetween them.


    I had studied them for around one hourand foundsomething:Regardless ofwhat position they had, theyweremarried and had at least one child.


    I told Captain Liu about my findings. However, he thought that this simrity wasnt that significant. Does the murderer want to kill people who havechildren? It would be a maniac serial killer!


    I looked him deep in the eyes. Then, I emphasized, I sawan evilspirit.


    Captain Liu opened his eyes wide in shock. His face was full of fear.


    I took a deep breath. The spiritis achild. Thats why hehas chosen victimswithkids. I think he kills people because of something he had experienced when he was alive.The eight victims children have experienced what he had experienced.


    Captain Liu calmed down. With a serious face, he asked, What are you going to do?


    I shook my head. For now, I only know that the spiritis targetingfamilies with kids. I havent figured out what his motive is.


    Thus, the urgent taskat handwas to investigate the family rtionship, especially between the parents and the childrenofthevictims. We had to know this information beforewe couldfigure outwhattodo next.


    As soon as Captain Liu heard that, he immediately assigned his staff to do what I had just told him. I didnt follow them but went to Wang Pings house to see her. I wasnt sureifshe was the next target. However, since it had appeared inherhouse, Wang Pingcould be murdered.


    Wang Ping was thrilledto see me. Ideliberatelydrove the topic to her son. Then, I found a problem.She was different from the other moms whowerebluntabout their children. Wang Ping simplydrifted away fromthetopic.


    Wang Ping made me think that she didntwant tobe close to her son. I thought I got something important here, but I couldnt figure it out.


    I felt irritated with myself, soIstopped answeringWang Pings questions. I got up and went to the bedroomon thesecond floor.


    The door toWang Pings sons room wasntpletely closed. I took a look through the slit between the door and the doorframe. The kid was talkingtothe cloth tiger in his chest. He sounded like he waplimentingthe tiger for something it had done. This scene looked strange.


    I wanted togocloser to listen to him, but the boy suddenly lifted his head and looked at the door,just as if he had spotted me!


    I quickly took a few steps back. Eavesdropping was somewhat embarrassing. I pretendednot to know anything and went to my guest room.


    I hadnt slept for almost two nights. Not long after I tucked myself in bed, Ifell asleep.


    When I woke up, it waste in the afternoon. Wang Ping called me to have dinner. At the same time, she told me that the police hade and said that they got what I had askedfor.


    After hearing that, Iwas no longer inthe mood to eat. Ihurriedlyran to the police station. When I entered the office, I sawthatCaptain Lius facewas dark.


    Whats wrong? I was skeptical.


    Hesaidnothing but ushered me to the document storage room. Then, he pushed a thick stack of filesatme. I flipped over the pages. Slowly, my face turned dark and heavy


    In myeyes, parents weregreat andselfless. Even if theymade mistakes sometimes, they just wanted the best for their children. However, the documentsin front of me had overturned my worldview!


    From the investigation result, no matter how rich or poor the deceased were, they had the same characteristic.They had neglected their children. In some severecases, they even seriously abused their children!


    Two or three of them werent from Fujian. Theyhadeto do business in Fujian and got rich. Afterward, they only thought about themselves and spent everything on themselves, including their time. They had neglected their children back in their hometown. One of the deceased had a secret lover whom she oftenbroughthome. She had evenlether partnertorture her daughter by whipping her anddrippinghot wax on her!


    Damn! Were thosefreakingpeople even human? They werent better than filthy animals! I hastily closed the files.At thismoment, I thought I would give up this case since those who were involved deserved death!


    Captain Liu saw that I was emotional. He pressed his hand on my shakingshoulder and said slowly, Mr. Zhang, Iveheard that the peoplewho workin your business believe in reincarnation, right?


    I nodded, but I didnt know why he had changed the topic that fast.


    He took a few draws from his cigarette beforespeakingagain. This morning,you told me itwas a child, right? Are you that heartless to give up the case and let a kidwho didnt have a good childhood not be able to rest forever? He kills people because he still has hatred in his heart. Thats why he hatestheparents who abuse their children.


    I was bewildered. Then, I rubbed my noseand felta little embarrassed. He wasnt in my business, but he understood our morality while I had almost let myanger getthe best of me and forgotten aboutthe rule.


    It seemed I should read thesacredtext of Daoismmore often. I didnt want to let my emotions get to me.


    When Captain Liu sawthat I hadcalmed down, he asked, What should we do now? The spirit kills one person every day. Ifthiscontinues, the social order and security in Fujian cant be maintained.


    I thoughtabout it.The knuckles of my right hand gentlyknockedon the table. Wang Pingis most likelythe next target. If I hadnt been therest night, she would have been the next victim. When the little ghost recognized that he couldnt kill Wang Ping, he changedhistarget.


    Do you still want to protect Wang Ping?


    Im not surehow toget rid of the ghost. If I am there and the ghostgoesto kill people somewhere else, my sin will grow bigger I said begrudgingly.


    Then, Iasked Captain Liu to choose two policemen that had kids and a happy family to go to Wang Pings house. At the same time, I would hide outside to watch.I wouldsee if that spiritwasgoing to kill only those who didnt treat their children well.We wouldbe able to confirm this theory after this test.


    Oh right, dont tell anyone that I will be watching outside. Ithought, thenadded, I dont want to showanyclues.


    Captain Liu nodded and went to make the arrangements. After Captain Liu sent two middle-aged policemen away for a while, I followed them to Wang Pings house.


    To ensure that Iwould stay concealed, I put on a Yang Concealing TalismanasI got close to Wang Pings house. Then, I climbed a big tree that had branches that extendedjust outside Wang Pings window.


    With the Yang Concealing Talisman,the spiritwouldnt be able tonoticeme unless he saw me directly.


    It started to rain again. Soon, I was soaking wet. The feeling of having damp clothes sticking on my body was extremely ufortable. I tried to ignore the feeling and gazedat the window. Through the window, I saw the two policemen talking to Wang Ping.


    Wang Ping looked a little panicked as it waste and I hadnte to protect her. Wang Pings son went downstairs. He was huggingthe cloth tiger and talking with the police. He looked happy,though.


    However, he didnt say a word to his mother. He was sitting next toone of thepolicemen.From what I could see, he didnt depend on his mother at all. This made me strongly believe in my assumption.


    At around 10:00 PM, one of the policemen stood up and held the boys hand. He ledhim to the second floor. I guessed he was going to tuck him intobed.


    The other policeman stayed and talked with Wang Ping.It didnt looklike theywouldsleep tonight.


    I was a little worried. I had hit the spirit hard yesterday. Perhaps it hadnt recovered enough to show up tonight.


    I took out the phone and sent a text message to Captain Liu. Afterward, the policeman in the living roomreceiveda phone call. After the phone call, he said something to Wang Ping, and then the woman went to her bedroom.


    The policeman leaned against the sofaand smoked. He closedhis eyes to rest. Last night, it was almost dawn when the spirit came. It would be a few hours until that time. I closed my eyesand tooka little rest too.


    Suddenly, I heard a loud crackling noisefromthe room. My eyes shot open.Thepicture frame near the TVhad fallen.


    Acute boyappearedon the TV. He was facing the policeman. It wasapletecontrast to the crying face Ihad seenyesterday.He was smiling brightly tonight.


    Even if the policeman opened his eyes and saw the kid now, he wouldnt pay attention to him.Sincethe kid didnt seem to want to attack the policeman, I stayedstill and patiently watchedhim


    The boy looked at the policeman and smiled for quite a long time before leaving the TV. Then, heslowlycrawledtoward the bedroom. It seemed I was correct. When he appearedst time, the entire living room was full of cryingfaces.Now that he was walking towardthe bedroom, I knew he didnt want to scare the good father in the living room.


    I inched my body on the tree branch to see the bedroom. Unfortunately, Wang Ping had let her curtain loose.


    Ohshoot, I forgot that! I cursed then slid down the tree. I quietly crawled up to the balcony.


    I was lucky that the balconys window was open. I took off my shoes andtiptoed behindthe curtain. Iopened the balcony door a littleto observe the room. However, as soon as I pulled the curtain, a massive crying faceappearedin front of me. Its bleeding eyeballs were the size of afist.


    I was scared and stumbled. The fire in my heart surged up. Get off of me! I screamedand thrustthe Yin and Yang Umbre forward. The crying face turned into a dark shadowand attemptedto leave the room. I hurried to chase after it. I wouldnt let it go this time!


    The policeman in the living room got up.When he saw that I was furiously rushingout with the Yin and Yang Umbre, he was bewildered.

 Chapter 564: Domestic Violence

    Chapter 564: Domestic Violence


    I didnt have time to exinthingsto him. I cut my fingertip and read the spell to beckon a spirit. As I had been using this spell more frequently these days, I had gained more experience. Soon, a spirit nearby came to help me.


    My speed was enhanced, which shortened the distance between me and the ck shadow. When the distance between us was within the attack range of the Yin and Yang Umbre, I threw it toward the shadow.


    However, I had underestimated the dark shadow one more time. Before Icouldactivatethe Yin and Yang Umbre, the shadow elerated and disappeared


    I could confirm that it was afraid of me. The spirit didnt counterattack. He only wanted to run away. I remembered thest time I had let him run away, another victim was chopped off after that. I had a me of anger in my heart. I took out a yellow jacketand threwit toward the shadow.


    ording to legends, it was Emperor Qianlongs jacket.Itwas just a gold and silk jacket, but since the Emperorhad wornit, it had his imperial aura.


    Moreover, in ancient times, adults and children were afraid of the yellow color as it represented the imperial family. If that ghosthad lived inancient times, he would be afraid of this jacket.


    Indeed, as soon as the yellow jacket got on him, the shadow slowed down. Moreover, he looked as though he would get on his knees soon. I foundamethodofdealing with him. I grabbed the Yin and Yang Umbre in one hand whilemyother handtookout a Soul Subduing Talisman.


    He could havebeentormented to death when he was still a child.However,I didnt want todestroyhis soul. Thatwas why I decided to use the talisman to subdue him. Then, I would think about how to help him ascend.


    Uncle!Right whenI had juststuckthe talisman onto the shadow, Wang Pings sons voice called from behind. Subconsciously, I turned around and saw Wang Pings son. Hewasnt evenwearingshoes. Under the heavy rain, he shivered. Histeeth ttered.


    I wanted to tell him to go home, but a sharp pain hit me at the nape of my neck. I recognized that I wastricked. I clutched my nape and turned around again. The shadow had wiggled off the talismanandgallopedaway.


    The pain at the nape of my neck disappeared quickly. It seemed the ghost had casually hit me before running away.


    I couldnt chase it now. I hoped that it would understand the rule of karma and wouldnt harm more people!


    I turned around again and picked up the shivering boy. Then, we returnedto Wang Pings house. When we arrived at his house, the boy obediently went upstairs. I went to the bathroom to fetch a towel. Sitting on the sofa, I dried my hair. While doing so, I asked the policeman,Whydidn''t youstop the kidfrom going outat midnight?


    The policeman was surprised. I didnt even see himgoout. How did you return with him?


    I frowned. Hes a big boy, and youretellingme that you didnt even see him sneakout of this house? How are you doing your policejob?


    The policeman was enraged. He mmed the table. Im sure no one left this house. I didnt even doze off. If someone went out, I must have seen it!


    I felt something wrong here. I threw the towel aside and rushed upstairs. The boys room wasnt closed and he was sleeping in his bed.


    His hair was soggy, which proved that he had just gone outside. I shook him to wake him up. Why did you go out there?


    The boy looked at me. His eyes were drowsy andhis face looked puzzled. It seemed the shadow had bewitched him. I sighed and went downstairs again. Together with the middle-aged policeman, we smoked.


    After thinking that there would be another death tomorrow, I felt irritated. It was the first time I had felt so annoyedafterworking in this business. I didnt know if that ghost wasa fiendor just a spirit. It had tricked me many times already.


    The policemanforted me. Theres no need to hurry, young man.


    How could I not be hurried?Alife was taken every day!


    I said nothingandquietlysmoked. Then, I forced myself to rest. The policeman didnt talkanymore. He leaned against the sofaand closedhis eyes to sleep.


    The next day, I asked to talk to Wang Ping in private. I told her to take care of her son better.


    Wang Pings face turned awkward when she heard me. Its our familys business. You dont need to care about it.


    I had to tell her the truth. That spiritispesteringyou because you dont treat your son well.


    Wang Ping changed her face immediately. However, she just casually answered that she would pay more attention to her son. I could sense that shewasnttelling the truth, butI didnt want to say more. Just like she had told me, it was her familys business. I had no right to interfere.


    To assure Wang Ping, we left a policeman with her. I returned to the police station with the other policeman.


    Fortunately, there was no report of a new murder case today. I exhaled. It seemed the ghost was seriously hurt yesterday.


    As there was no murder case, I didnt want to linger in the police station. I said goodbye to Captain Liu then left the station.


    It was mainly because I had almost used up all the items I had brought. After two days, I didnt have anymorerefined salt. The Sirius Whip hadnt umted enough energy, and the Peach Soul Flower was still in Wang Pings house.


    After theevents frost night, it wasnt hard to recognize that the dark shadow wasnt afraid of talismans. Moreover, I didnt want him to perish. I needed to use some moderately powerful tools to deal with him.I went around to buy some items,then stuffed them inmy bag before returning to the police station.


    Unexpectedly, after Ifinishedpreparingeverything, the ghostdidnt appearagain. Wang Pings husband hade homewhenhe knew of the incident in the house. It was good that there was more Yang energy in the house with his presence. The policeman guarding Wang Pings house returned to his department.


    I had been watching for two days in a row, yet I hadnt found the shadow again. I thenbookeda room in a hotel to rest. There was no progresswithour current cases, and there was no new case as well. Captain Liu and his team decided to temporarily close the case. Although they still kept a team to investigate around, both Captain Liu and I understood that these cases would remain unsolved


    For the next five days,I stayedidle. I reyedwhat had happened in my head.Onthe evening of the fifth day, I finallyreachedaconclusion.


    That night, because of Wang Pings sons sudden appearance, mynhad failed. I thought that Iwastrickedat that time, but now, after a few days of considering the matter, I found something strange.


    That night, I had brought him back to the house and he went to his room himself. If he had been possessed, how could he obediently return to his room and sleep?


    With this new thought, I went to Wang Pings house one more time. The boy happened to open the door for me. He looked at me with cautious eyes, which strengthened my idea.


    Wang Ping and her husband were watching TV. However, they didnt look right. Itappearedthey were fighting earlier.


    When Wang Ping saw me, she was worried. Will those crying facese back?


    I fiddled with the basket of fruits on the tableand shookmy head. No, I have some stuff to do back in my shop so I have to go. BeforeI leave, I want to say goodbye to you guys.


    While talking, I looked at the boy through the corner of my eye. Indeed, when he heard that I had to leave, he looked much happier.


    Wang Ping and her husband asked me to stay for dinner. After dinner, we had talked for a long time before I excused myself. I told themthat I had to leave early tomorrow so I needed to rest early tonight. They didntkeepmeany longer andrepeatedlythankedmebeforeseeing me out.


    I left the neighborhoodand returned tomy hotel room to take my tools. Then, I quietlyreturned to their house.


    If my assumption were correct, the spirit that hadnt killed anybody for a few days in a row wouldntbe able to resistanymore. I just needed to wait and catch the rabbit!


    This time, I had learned from experience. I covered my body in a raincoat before climbing on the tree. Holding a pair of binocrs, I looked at Wang Pings living room.


    Wang Ping and her husband werefighting.Thingswere scattered on the floor. The boy shivered. He satin the cornerand criedsilently. I was shockedto seea handprint on his cheek. Then, Wang Pings husband shouted something at hiswife''s facethen left, mming the door behind him.


    After her husband left, Wang Ping had no object to vent out her anger. She pulled the kid out of the corner and started to hit him as though he wasnt her son. She crazily punched and kicked the boy. The boy didnt even scream. However, hiseyes were fullofresentment!


    After a while, Wang Ping didnt stop but put more force into her fists and kicks. When she stomped on the boys thigh with her high heel, the boy couldnt stand it anymoreand burstout crying.


    My eyes turned sore. I couldnt stand it anymore. I had to get in there and rescue the boy. Rightat thismoment, Wang Pingscreamed andthen fell. Her hands clutchedher face.


    Blood streamed through the slits between her fingers. The boy crawled up from the ground. He stood and huggedthe cloth tiger,lookingdown at Wang Ping.


    I was stunned. A shadow had just stormed out of the cloth tiger and attacked Wang Ping. It turned out the otherworldly item wasthetoy! Since the boy had always hugged it, I thought it was just a stuffed toy. I had never expected that cloth tiger to be an otherworldly item!

 Chapter 565: The Odd Story of the Cloth Tiger

    Chapter 565: The Odd Story of the Cloth Tiger


    As long as it was an otherworldly item, I knew how to deal with it!


    Wang Ping was still cryingandclutching her face. Slowly, bleeding bites appeared on her body. The boy just stood and held the cloth tigertightly.His cold eyeswatchedeverything.


    I deliberately let Wang Ping endure this pain to give her a lesson.I thenslowly got down the tree. Until shewashurt enough, I pushed the door openand enteredthe house.


    The moment I pushed the door open, I sshed rooster blood.A roosterwas a goodtoolto expel evil spirits and beckon Yang energy. In China, whether it was a happy or mournful event, the rooster was an indispensableanimal. In many ces, people believed that they could usearoosterinstead of thedeceased groom.


    It was mainly becausearooster couldbeckonthe sun. It was in the animals nature to be a spiritual living being. The roosters crowattractedYang energy, so the roosters blood also had the same function. Moreover, I had added cinnabartothe blood.


    When rooster blood sshed on the crying faces, they shrank as if they were electrified. They retreatedto the boy. The entire room was filled with shrill cries,which gaveme a splitting headache.


    I opened the Yin and Yang Umbre but didnt do anything else. The boy gazed at me hostilely. I flinchedand felta squeeze in my heart as I saw the red hand mark on his cheek.


    Wang Ping had stopped screeching. After I had confirmed that she wouldnt die, Ino longercaredabout her. I couldnt pity herafterwhat she had just done.


    I tried to talk to the boy inhopesthat he would hand me the cloth tiger so that I could handle it. Looking at the dark energy lingering on the toy, I was afraid that the spirit would possess the boy.


    When the boy heard me, he hugged the cloth tiger tighter. His voice was resolute. Even if I die, I wont let you hurt Aji! You are a bad guy! A big bad guy!


    It seemed Aji was the name of thespirit. Unfortunately, he wasntafamous historical figure, so Ineeded morecluestofigure out how to deal withhim.


    Rest assured boy! I just want to help Aji, I convincingly told him.


    A momentter, the boy seemed to recognize that I didnt want to hurt his friend. Hegestured to thedark shadow to approach me.


    I took out a set of Hanchildrensclothes thatweremade of gold paper from my bag. They looked realistic.


    Since Aji had died early, I guessed hehadneverwornsuch good clothes. Eventhoughhewasa spirit now, he was still a kid. He wouldnt be able to resist the enticement of having new clothes.


    Indeed, when I offered him the clothes, the tattered Aji couldnt waitand enteredthe clothes.


    However, as soon as he got in, he screamed painfully. The boys face changed. He waved the cloth tigerin an attemptto retrieve the spirit!


    I had prepared everything. Thesepaper Han clothes had cost me a lot of effort. The gold threads on the clothes were madefromthe powder of Buddhistprayerbeads that had been blessed. The boy couldnt rescue his friend.


    The gold threads started to shrink and Aji screamed louder. The more he screeched, the thinner the dark smokearoundhis body had be.Thesmooth face of a child was finally revealed. However, his eyes were still blood-red.


    It seemed he hated everything, and that his hatred came from the grievances he had suffered!


    I sighed and read a spell to retrieve Aji into a small jade bottle gourd.


    This kid had just stood still and watched his motherin pain. But now, hewasrestlessand jumpedtoward me without thinking. Without Ajis help, he was just aneight-year-oldkid. He couldnt do anything other thanscratchme. In the end, he helplessly sat on the groundand cried.


    Thingsshould end here, butI wanted to do something for Aji. I wanted to know what kind of grudge he had that had made him linger in this world with hatred for thousands of years.


    I lifted the kid and put him on the sofa. I calledan ambnce and hadWang Ping taken to the hospital. Afterward, I talked to the kid.


    He didnt react to me at first. Butwhen I told him that I would like to help Aji reincarnate, his eyes sparkled. With red eyes, he nodded.


    While helping him clean his wound, I asked him to tell me about Aji. He could feel that I was different from Wang Ping. He sobbedand toldme Ajis old story.


    Aji was a son of an official in the Han Dynasty. His father helda low position, but he could make end meets. However, Ajis father had great ambition. He had always been busy around other higher-rank officialsand gavethem wee partiesor gifts in hopesof gettingpromoted. He had ignored his son while doing all this.


    Eventually, Ajis father seeded. But then, he changed. He began to party hard and when he got drunk, hewenthome to abuse Aji and his mother.


    It had happened for a long time. Ajis mother couldnt put up withherviolent husband anymore. She jumped into a well tomit suicide. Before she killed herself, she made a cloth tiger for Ajiand toldlittle Aji that this friend would always be with him.


    Without his mother to care for him, Ajis life became even worse. More often than not, he didnt have meals to eat. One day, during a banquet, Aji made his father lose face. His father locked him up. He was imprisoned for seven days,and he only had the cloth tiger to apany him throughout the horrible period.


    After seven days, when Ajis father remembered that he still had a son, Aji was starved to death


    Ajis unwilling soul had lingered in this mortal world and taken shelter in the cloth tiger. Wang Pings son happened to find the toy one day when hewentout to y,releasingthe spirit.


    Little Ajisworeto bringretributionto the bad mothers and fathers. Thats how the corpse-chopping serial cases had started.


    Iheaveda deep sigh after listening to the story. I stroked the jade bottle gourdand feltlike crying. I took the boy back to his room to rest then went to the hospital to see Wang Ping.


    Wang Ping onlyhadminor injuries on her body. It seemed the boy had shown mercy to his mother.


    I went to the hospital to talk to Wang Ping and advised her to treat her son better.With her behavior, she could be used ofchild abuse.Unexpectedly, as soon as she saw me, she weptand askedif her son was all right.


    Oh, this woman cares about her son now. Did she change her mind?


    After listening to her, I understood that she had interpreted her son coldly standing and watching herst night asan act of courage, just as if hewanted tostay with heruntilthe very end.


    It was aconvenientmisunderstanding, soI didnt tell her the truth. With her interpretation of the situation, Wang Ping pledged to treat her son better. Shewouldmake up for all of her previous deeds.


    I considered it then simply said, Ivesubdued the spirit. That spirit hade to you because you abused your son.


    Wang Ping felt guilty. I swear I will never harm my son again.


    Afterward, I took Wang Ping to her house. We saw her husband there. Seeing his wounded wife, he regrettedhis actionsa lot. Im so sorry. I should have trusted you.


    I then learned that they hadfoughtbecause her husband didnt believe that ghosts existed.


    Wang Ping wasnt mad anymore as her husband had apologized to her. She went upstairs to see her son. I followed her and saw herhugthe boy. She was crying.


    The hatred on the boys face slowly faded and disappeared while his mother was weeping and telling him that she was sorry and she would treat himbetter. In the end, he sank into his mothers embrace and sobbed.


    Ifeltsomewhat happy. I had been worriedaboutthe boys life, but now I knew I had beenoverthinking.


    However, I pitied the kids of the other eight victims. They didnt have the love they deservedand they would have to struggle a lotter.


    But it was fate. Otherworldly merchants had to follow the will of Heaven. They should never go againstit. I just hoped that those children would soon learn to ept their fates and optimistically face everything that wouldeintheir lives.


    I had been waiting downstairs for a while before Wang Ping came down with red, swelling eyes. She held the cloth tigerand gaveit to me. Its a gift from my son to you.


    I smiledand thoughtthat the boy was smart enough!


    After that, I looked around and found an abandoned factory where I would help Aji ascend. I wanted this little boy who had held his grudge for thousands of years to have a ce to go to.


    It wasnt hard to help Aji ascend. Aji hated his father the most. At the same time, he desired his fathers love and care the most. As long as I could smoothen this knot, he would be willing to go.


    I put on a Han suit and a wig. After more than one thousand years, I guessed he had forgotten what his father looked like. Only the hatred that stayed in his heart made him linger here.


    Thats right, Iwore this tocosy as Ajis father!

 Chapter 566: Goodbye Aji!

    Chapter 566: Goodbye Aji!


    After findingagood spot, I lit three joss sticks and stabbed them into the ground. I opened the jade bottle gourd to release Aji.


    As soon as he got out, he took in a few breaths of smoke from the joss sticks. I stood behind him andgently calledhim.


    WhenAji saw me, his eyes were bewildered. I softened my voiceand said,Aji, my son. Daddy misses you a lot!


    My skin crawled because of my voice. However, as it was for Aji, I had to endureit.


    When Aji heard the word Daddy his eyes turned blood-red. His face was full of hatred. He stared at me. A sob came from his throat as he dashed toward me.


    To not let him figure out that I wasnt his father, I didnt dodge his attack. He was quite strongand bitmy throat.


    The strong resentful energy made me fe heatin my throat. I had to vomit a mouthful of blood. However, I rxedafterward. He had a chance to kill me, but he had just wounded me.


    Aji, this little boy, had kept his grudge for over one thousand years. In the end, he didnt even want to kill his father


    My nose felt sore as I was about to cry. I pulled myself together as I remembered that I was ying the role of his father. I lifted my head to look at him.


    Ajis blood-red eyes showed his struggle as Ihadntcounterattackedor dodgedhim. He was confused. Hiseyesshedbetween dark and bright. The kid was movedthathis father didnt attack him. My heart ached further.


    I calmed down andwentto rub his head. He didnt avoid meand stoodstill. However, when my palm touched his head, he began totwisthis legs and didnt let me touch him. After a while, he stood still again. His eyes were empty. He lookedpuzzled. I squatted to level my eyes with his.After hugging his shoulders, I began to weep.


    Daddy was so wrong. Aji, my son, you should go and reincarnate. We will be father and son in the next life. Please let me make up everything youve missed. Although I was pretending to be his father, my tears for him were real.


    To this little boy, fatherly love was something that was always out of his reach. Aji was surprised. Then, blood tears slowly rolled from his eyes.


    While sobbing, he said something, but I didnt understand.At thismoment,my ws could beexposed. I was worried. If he knew I was tricking him, his resentful energy could grow higher.


    I was so flusteredand triedto find a solution. Then,Aji got on his knees. With a serious face, he gave me three kowtows. In each kowtow, he had pressed his head low. After that, I was thrilledto see thathe had used his blood to write the words Thank you on the ground.


    I was shockedand lookedat him. Aji slowly got up and pointed at my backpack. Then, he smiled.


    It turned out heknewI was pretending to be his father. It was as ifhe knew that his father would never say such things to him. Still, he had been willing toact along withme in this y!


    I suddenly got it. Aji not only had hatred in his heart, but he also didnt know how to express himself. I was only afraid of gettingdiscovered, forgettingthat none had beenwilling to y this father-son roley with him before!


    Wang Pings son was his friend. However, they had onlymunicated their miseries. If theyhad beenwith each other longer, their grudge and fixation would have be deeper. It would never disappearif it reached that point.


    Son, I hope youwillhave a happier life in your next life. I hope that your parentswilllove you and care about you, and that youwillhave many, many friends to y with. I couldnt hold my tears anymore. While talking, I pulled the fake beard off my face. Weeping silently, I nodded at him.


    The kid smiled at me. His smile was so innocent and bright, just like the timehe appeared on the TV and watched the policeman.


    Gradually, his bloodtearsand blood-red eyes faded. In the end, he hadcleartears. When a ghost cried, itmeant that Nirvana was upon them, and theyhad a chance to reincarnate. I felt happy for himandhurriedlyreadamantra to help him ascend.


    Ajis figure faded and slowly disappeared in front of me.


    After Ajiwasgone, I took a deep breath and was about to return to the hotel. But then, I saw a line of words on the floor: Ikilled them because Ididntwant their kids to experience what I had suffered.


    I sighed helplessly. In this ageof materialism, how many people were working for money?


    They wanted their family to have a better life, but they didnt know that they had neglected their family to do so. It was as ridiculous as harvesting the crops and ignoringthe fruits underneath!


    In our country, there were more and morechildrenwho had their family with them but didnt receive love or proper care.


    Aji and Wang Pings son were justone of many. What they had experienced could be happening to some childreninthe remote mountainselsewhere.


    Those kids were lonely and lost. They were hurt, but they had hopes and dreams. They only wanted their parents to care about them. They didnt want tobefriend loneliness!


    The next day, I reported the situation to Captain Liu, but I hid the fact that the boy was behind all ofthis. Although Captain Liu sympathized with what Aji had experienced, he was a policeman who couldnt stand when one took revengeuponsociety after getting hurt.


    However, as Aji was a ghost, he couldnt punish him. In the end, he decided tomarkthe cases as unsolved.


    As the incident was over, I bid farewell to Captain Liu and returned to the hotel to packmy belongings. I would take the afternoon flight home. However, when I went to the lobby, I heard a loudmotion. It seemed someone had diedon thethird floor.


    When Ireachedthe front desk to check out, the front desk clerk was whispering to the roomserviceworker. I told you, we cant let people stay in that room. Everybody who has slept therehasdied!Its happened afew times already. Our boss didnt believeit. Now, look what has happened.


    The room service person nodded. Yeah, thatsright. The deceaseds familyiscausingtrouble there. I wonder if theywiffect the hotels business.


    The front desk clerk pouted. I wish itwouldendsoon. Twice every three days, onepersondies. Im sureit''s paranormctivity. I dont want to get bad luck!


    The two were chatting excitedlyanddidntnoticemy presence. I coughed, which startled them and caused them to look at me. When they knew that I just wanted to check out, theylooked better. However, they didnt continue their topic.


    After I signed the check-out form, I pretendedto haveforgotten something in my room. I wentto the third floorandsaw a memorial service being held in front of a room.


    White candles were lit on both sides of a ck and white portrait. A few people were lining up and offering joss sticks. The hotels security guards and the deceaseds family members werequarreling. They weremaking noise. There were alsosome otherguestswho were staying in this hotel gathered at the scene.

 Chapter 567: The Bone in the Toilet

    Chapter 567: The Bone in the Toilet


    Holding a memorial service in the hotel was quite a strange idea. Of course, the hotels manager wasnt pleased. Thatwaswhy security guards were shooing people away.


    Compared to the security guards, the deceaseds family members were even more stirred up. They said that the hotel had killed people and thatthey wanted justice.


    Someone had called the police. Soon, the police came and took all the trouble-makers away. They also asked the hotels manager to go to the police station to report the situation.


    The guestsatthe hotel returned to their rooms as the fun was over. I waited until they all left tohavea closer look.


    The portrait of the deceaseddepicteda very young girl. It wasa pitythat she had diedat suchayoung age.After thinking about the paranormal activities the front desk clerk had mentioned, I decided to enter the room to check.


    I was lucky that no one had remembered to lock the room because of theturmoil. Butas soon as Isteppedinto the room, I shuddered. It seemed the girl at the front desk was right.


    A fast battle, a fast victory. I took out the Peach Soul Flowerand heldit in my hand. It should be enough todeal withan ordinaryghost.


    The temperature in the room dropped by a few degrees. It seemed thespirit here couldntstay still. I sat on the bed and pretended to lie down to sleep.


    While lying down, I saw a white shadowfallfrom the ceiling. I was prepared. I rolledoverand got up, looking intothe white eyes of the ghost.


    It seemed to be an evil ghost. I didnt dare to be careless. I jumped from the bed and pointed the Peach Soul Flower at her. I yelled, Why do you harm people?


    She didnt react to me but screamed hoarsely,hurlingherself toward me. I hastily threw the Peach Soul Flowerather. I didnt expect that her body would suddenly make a hole that allowed the Peach Soul Flower topassthrough and close right after that.


    Iwas surprised thatthe Peach Soul Flower couldnt subdue her.After realizing thatmybright ideahadnt worked,Ifelt likeppingmyself. I quickly scanned the room and saw a big mirror by the door. Iwent over andbroke the mirror with my bare hands. I picked a big shard and shone it at the female ghost.


    The mirror was an item that could expel evilspiritsand ghosts, but not many people knewthat. People oftencedmirrorsin the wrong positionin the house.Amirror inthe wronglocation couldnt expel evilspirits. Instead, it wouldinvitethem. Gradually, peoplestopped usingmirrors to expel evilspirits.


    However, amirror was a good toolforexorcisms. Mirrors couldreflect light, and lookingat such lightfora long timecouldmake people nervous and evenhallucinate.This kind of reflected light was powerful when dealing with ghosts!


    The female ghost screamed when the mirror shone at her. She ran to the window,where she bounced backdue toaninvisible barrier.


    I was surprised but soon got it. She had stayed here and done evil things because she was imprisoned in this room.Her resentful energy had umted day after day. It would be strange if she didnt harm anybody!


    When the ghost recognizedthat she couldnt escape,shebared her teeth and rolled her eyes at me. She roared again but didnt dare to attack me.


    Holding the mirror, Isaid,I can help you leave this ce.


    She didnt look like she understood what I had said. She looked at meand whined aboutsomething.Feeling helpless,Ihad to look around the room as I keptaneye on her. There must beaformation or something mysterious in this room that had bound her here.


    Id been here for quite a long time but Icouldntnoticethe existence of a formation.The possibilityof there beingsomething else in this room loomed bigger.Soon, I had checked all the things I could see except for under the bed.


    The female ghost was as fierce as a tiger lurkingatits prey. I didnt dare to bend to check the bed. Luckily forme, this hotel room was equipped with a cloth rack for the guests to use. I took it and extended it underneath the tableto search.


    I found that the bed was solid and therewasno space underneath. Then, my eyes moved to the bathroom.


    It seemed that thing was in the bathroom. Afterseeing me linger outside the bathroom, the ghost suddenly stirred up. She wanted to jump toward me many times,butshe hesitatedfor some reason.


    There should be something in there as she was afraid ofthe ce. She didnt dare to approach thebathroom. I eased my nervous heart and checked the bathroom. The zed counter, the showerhead, andtheshower chamberlooked normal. Eventually, my eyes turned to the toilet bowl


    I thought to myself,It shouldnt be that melodramatic, should it?


    However, I still boldly lifted the toilet lid. I found a bone with a talisman in the toilet.


    This piece of bone wassosmall that I couldnt recognize what kind of bone it was. However, the bone that could entice the soul was often fromaskull.


    I showed the piece of bone to the ghost. She stirred up againand roaredat me. It seemed the bone belonged to this ghost. I activated the Yin and Yang Umbre to protect myself. Then, I read the runes on the talisman.


    It was just a simple spell to subdue the soul.Atalisman on a skull could confine the deceaseds soul. Of course, it was easy to solve this spell. I just needed to tear the talisman.


    I wondered who had a big grudge against this woman.She was dead, but she couldnt rest.It was no wonder why she had beviolent.


    I shook my head and peeled the talisman off the bone. As soon as the ghost saw that the talisman was deactivated, she turned and moved toward the window.


    I followed her.Fortunately, I was on the third floor,soI could just jump andnd on some air conditioner covers. I followed the ghosts aura to track her down.


    After chasing afterherfor a long time, I found that something was wrong. It was ill-lit inside the hotel, which was why the ghost could appear.However,it was sunny outside. How could she dare to go out?


    I patted my thighwhenI knew I was tricked. I hurriedly returned to the hotel. When I got there, the entire third floor was covered in a dark miasma. People were screaming inside.


    I rush to the third floor to rescue the people trapped in the dark miasma. Then, I returned to that room.


    Without the talisman, she was no longer scared of me. She reached out her handsand rolledher eyes at me.


    I hated that I couldnt just p myself.Why didI dosuch a carelessthingandreleased her?!


    Anyway, this ghost wanted to kill hersavior, so shewouldnthaveabright future. I happened to have a bag of rooster blood mixed with cinnabar left from Ajis case. I didnt show mercyand sshedthe mixture on her.


    Ahhh! The ghost shot to the ground as though she was electrified. She screamed and screeched, but Ididnt have anysympathy for her now. I threw the Yin and Yang Umbre on her and read the activating spell. I didnt stop reading the spell until she had turned into ashes.


    When Iwentdownstairs, I saw the two young women at the front deskwhisperingto each other again. They seemed to be discussing how bad the ghost was.


    I pouted. Humans hearts were more frightening than ghosts. However, people could hide their hearts while ghosts couldnt

 Chapter 568: Invitation From the Ministry of State Security

    Chapter 568: Invitation From the Ministry of State Security


    It was said that in every trade, a master would appear. However, I had never expected that a humble otherworldly merchant like me would be noticed and favored by our mothend one day.


    Oneafternoon, I was having some small dishes in my antique shop as usual. Sitting by the door, I enjoyed sippingfrom atumbler of wine while watching the snowkes flutteroutside. The pride of a knight in ancienttimesarose in my heart.


    Suddenly, fromthe otherend of the antique street, an off-road vehicle rumbled toward my shop!


    I took a nceat theoff-road vehicles number te. I caught a glimpse of the red word,Military. I was amazed!


    Why would a military car appear in a ce like this? Did some fool stenational treasure?


    With that thought, I scurried around my shop to put away some counterfeit items on the shelves.Ifthey were suddenlyinthe mood to visit my shop, those toys shouldnt be in sight


    Antique businesses werea mixofgenuine and fake.If some of thethings stocked in your shopwerent fake, you were a good businessman already. Only a fool would sellonlyreal antiques.


    The joy of collecting antiqueidin the skillofdistinguishing between the real and the fake antiques.


    Having said that, it would be better tostaylow-key. Who knew what those military men had in their bags?


    After putting away all the counterfeits, Iwas in agood mood. Feeling so excited, I put onathick puffer jacket and was about to leave my shop tocheck outthe fun. Unexpectedly, that off-road vehicle didnt seem to stop by any shop along the way. It directlydroveto my shop.


    Ohshoot...When I had finally confirmed that theyhadefor me, I shuddered. I had collected the Sky Piercer, which was anationaltreasure. If they had investigated me andchargedme, I would be jailed for a few years.


    Indeed, the off-road vehicle pulled to a full stop in front ofmy antique shop. The door opened, and two middle-aged men in straight military uniforms got out of the car.


    One of them wore thick, gold-rimmed sses, while the other was holding something that looked like a document. As soon as they got out of the car, they smiled at me.


    It didnt seemtheyhae to look for something illegal. Ilet out a sigh,thensaidgingerly, Good afternoon. Are you looking for me?


    The bespectacled man nodded.Mr. Zhang,letsgo inside to talk.He calmlywalked into myshopand took my seat. From his posture,it seemed he was abigshotof the military force.


    He smiledand gaveme an assessing look. The other middle-aged man, whoheldthe document,spokefirst. May Iintroduce you tothe Team Leader of the Special Operation Team from the Ministry of State Security, Jiang Shan. Im his secretary, Xiao Quan.


    I was bewildered. I had never thought thatanofficial at the ministry level woulde to find me one day. I wondered if it was an opportunity or acmity.


    Secretary Xiao Quan started to read from the document in his hand. Zhang Jiulin, a citizen of Wuhan. Works in the antique business. Throughout five years, he has helped the Police Bureau solve many otherworldly itemcases. From a hidden branch of the Zhang family in Jiangbei. Not a long time ago, he married Yin Xinyue, an actress. For his grudge, he beheaded Xiang Zuanzhen, a consecrator-levelelderof the Longquan Vi


    Before Xiao Quan had finished his reading, Iwasalready sweating.Hewasreading my profile ingreat detail!


    Those people from the State Security Bureau had investigated me meticulously. They even knew that I had decapitated Xiang Zuanzhen in an act of revenge for the little Daoist boy.


    It seemed theyhad studied me for quite a long time. If itwasabout my antique business, I could reject them.However,I didmit a murder crime. Once they made it a case, I couldne cleaneven if I jumped into the Yellow River


    I couldnt stay calm anymore. In a trembling voice, I asked,What do you want,after all?


    In our State Security Ministry, we have twosetsofws. One iscallednationalw, and the other is called human rtions.Xiao Quan closed his document. We knew you killed a man, but we didnt do anything to you because we care about human rtions. If you dont know human rtions, then tomorrow, this document will be submitted to the Police Bureau.


    PhewI exhaled. It turned out they didnt want to capture me. They just needed my help. Still, they wanted to scare me first!


    Xiao Quan had sessfully scared me. I had a strong personality, but I didnt want to go against the state departments.I helplesslylooked at Jiang Shan. Xiao Quan was just a trivial secretary. The one with the real power was Jiang Shan.


    Jiang Shan pushedhisgold-rimmed sses up his nose. His countenanceturneplicated. Mr. Zhang, I lead the best Special Operation Team in this country.This time, weve encountered somethingbeyond our estimation. I would like to ask you to help us.


    Please do tell. I nodded politely, but I wascursing theeighteen generations of his family.Do I even have the right to reject him?


    Good. Our country needs good citizens like you. As he got my consent, Jiang Shan smiled and torethedocument. Then, he got into the car and left. Secretary Xiao Quan stayed to exin the case to me.


    It happened just recently. Many national researchers were killed, and their deaths were horrible. Somewerebeheadedwhile others werechopped off at the waist. Somewere evenchopped into eight pieces. Whentheir bodieswere found, their blood and flesh were scatteredall overthe floor. Since they weremore or lessall involved in weaponresearch anditsdevelopment, the effect of these cases is really bad.The Police Bureau didnt dare to investigate this case, so its beentransferred to the Special Operation Team of the Ministry of State Security.After we started an in-depth investigation, we found that most of the researchers were killed after midnight. From the forensic reports, we know they were cut sharply and resolutely byacold weapon. Except for that, the Special Operation Team hasntfoundany other clues. Therewerenofingerprintsorfootprintsat the crime scenes. Even the cameras didnt show any suspectgoing close tothem.


    He continued,The members of our Special Operation Team have experienced many strange and mysterious events, so they soon connected these cases to a paranormal case. They assume that those researchers were killed by an evil spirit. After all, they were killed before they could even make a sound to call for help. What kind of human being has such power?


    Your superior believes in this sort of paranormctivity? I couldnt help but ask.


    Haha...Xiao Quan understood my worries. He smiledandfortedme. Dont worry. As we havee to you, it means our country needs talented peoplelike you. Dont be afraid. Just do what you need to do!Itdidnt look like he was lying to me. Moreover, I didnthave any otherchoice. I had to agree with him.


    Xiao Quan urged me to pack up. I didnt know what n they had for me, so I didnt ask Li Mazi to go with me. I sent him and Yin Xinyue a text messageand toldthem I had to go on a business trip for a few days. They shouldnt be worried about me.


    Atnight, Xiao Quans teamtraveledfast.Alongthe way, more and more off-road cars joined our formation.They graduallyformed a small convoy like a proper unified military operation. I had unknowingly enjoyed thesame treatment as those importantpeople. I felt somewhat proud.


    We arrived in Haidian District inBeijing thenext morning. Jiang Shans Special Operation Team was stationed on Qinghe street. Soldiers were patrolling everywhere. It was the first time Ihad essto a highly secured area. I felt a little nervous.


    Jiang Shan took me to the cafeteria first. He seemed to realize my thoughtand nodded with a smile.The capital always has strict guards. Youll get used to it.


    After weatea simple breakfast, Jiang Shan left, leavingXiao Quanbehindtohelpmewith thiscase. I then learned that the Special Operation Teamalso had other cases tosolve for the time being. Jiang Shan was able toe to my shop yesterday, but it was justtomeetme.


    Xiao Quan took out the profiles of the deceased and gavethem to meto read. After reading, I was shocked. Most of them were the inventors who had greatly contributed to our countrys military weapons, devices, and equipment.


    Are you surethis isthe work ofan evilspirit? I asked skeptically. People who worked as weapon researchers and developers were simr to the cksmiths in ancient times. They naturallyhad thickYang energies. Little ghosts and evil spirits didnt dare togoclose to them.Speaking of this situation, even if therewasa super bold spirit, why would it only kill the weapon researchers?

 Chapter 569: The Words in Crimson Blood

    Chapter 569: The Words in Crimson Blood


    Thatwaswhy Ididnt think they werekilled byaspirit. Someone had murdered them. That murderer was so excellent that he didnt leave any evidence behind at the crime scenes.


    After listening to me, Xiao Quan pondered for a while. Then, he lowered his voice and said,I understand your idea. At first, wealsothought thatanelite foreign agent had caused trouble! However, those deceased experts and researchers didnt work at the same departments when they were alive!Thats not all. Not only were they experts indifferentfields,but some wereordinary office workers. Thats why wevedecided to eliminate the possibility of an agentmitting all the murders. Xiao Quan was talking fast, but his exnation was clear and orderly.


    I subconsciously frowned after listening to him. The victims had worked at different departments and their ranks were also different. They didnt even know each other when they were alive. The possibility of a group murder case was reducedbya lot


    However, we couldnt cross off the possibility yet. I contemted, then asked Xiao Quan to take me to the murder scenes.


    Our countryhad alwaystreated talented people generously, so they wereeachgiven a house, which is why all of the victims lived in Haidian District.This made thingsconvenient for us.


    Xiao Quan andI had visitedthe houses of five of the deceased in one morning. All the crime scenes were well-preserved. However, to prevent the bodies from dposing, they had sprayed formalin on them. I had to endurethepungentsmell of chemicals the entire morning.


    The situations were exactlyasXiao Quan haddescribed to me. All of the victims were dismembered.Some of them had their eyes opened wide in fright as it was thest facial expression they had right before their deaths.


    Idheard that peoples eyes could preserve the image of thest thing they saw before they died. With that thought, I loomed overthe headof a victim to take a close look. However, I didnt see anything.


    From the surface, there was nothing that couldbe considered evidencein the crime scenes. It was in line with the nature of a murder case done byaghost.However,I knew it wouldnt be that simple.


    In theory, after the spirit killed people and left, the wounds on the dead or the interior of the deads house would retain some Yin energy. Sometimes, there would be some unusual changes to the corpse. For example, molds and fungi could grow crazily within a short time. In some stranger cases, the deceaseds hair could grow longer.


    Inthe cases I had epted before, I knewsomeinformationaboutmost of the otherworldly items. And, I could investigate and solve the case based on the Yin energy leftbehind. I had never encountered such a situation before. For the time being, I had no idea what to do.


    Xiao Quan thought that I didnt want to put my best effortintothis. He said in a reprimanding voice,The fate of the nation is in the hands of the capable and responsible ones. The experts who contributed to the development of our country were murdered. Mr. Zhang, how could you just stand and


    Im not! I rudely interrupted him.Afterseeing the remains of the victims, I had kept thinkingabout how to find clues and how to help those dead victims rest in peace.


    It was the first time I had boldly snapped back while talking to Xiao Quan. Themanwas somewhat bewildered. Then, he changed his attitudeand talked in asofter tone to me. Im just anxious. Please forgive me.


    All right, I know you just want to solve the case quickly! I waved my hands and asked Xiao Quan to return to the base of his Special Operation Team. I would go to Panjiayuan,the biggest antique market in Beijing.


    Panjiayuan, also known asthe Dirt Market, was the biggest domestic antique trading market. It was likeaholynd to antique businessmen like us.


    There were so many vendor stalls in the Dirt Market, including minor ethnic vendors. It was said that eighty percent of the antiques here were fake. Idheard that the counterfeits in this market were so excellent that they could even trick the experts in the field. It was also the reason why when a new antique businessmanwanted to start his or her new career, they woulde to this ce to train their eyes!


    Of course, I wasnt here to look for something interesting. I wanted to collect some Five Emperors coins. The Five Emperors coinswere differently sized. They werethe coins cast during the times of Emperor Hanwu of Qin, Emperor Taizong of Tang, and Zhu Yuanzhang. Unfortunately, since it wasso long ago, there werent many coins left. It was impossible to have arge coin collection.


    The small Five Emperors coins were the coins produced and circted during thereignsof Emperor Shunzhi to Emperor Jiaqing of the Qing Dynasty. There were many of them and the prices werent high, which made them a top exorcising tool.


    Anyway, people did make fake coins. I was lucky that my keen eyes were well-trained. After an entire afternoon, I had selected around one hundred coins of a bright bronze color. I called Xiao Quan to visit the victims houses one more time and ced a coin next to their dead bodies.


    Xiao Quan watched medothat and didnt have a clue.He doubtfullyasked, Mr. Zhang, its just a small antique coin. How could it know if theres something foul in this ce?


    Since we had no clue and I didnt know if itwasanevil spirit that hamittedthe murder, thatwasallthatI could do for now. As long as thespirit appeared, the bright light on the coins would be gone. At least, I could confirm ifaspiritwas behind the murders.


    After listening to me, Xiao Quan nodded. Then, he asked, Do you want to have someone watch the scenes?


    Theres no need.We arent even sure ifthere is aspirit.I then asked Xiao Quans driver to go back to their department.


    That night, I was amodated in the dormitory of the State Security Ministry.While lying on the bed, I reyed what Id seen today. Still, I wasnt sure ifaspirit had troubled them.


    To be honest, using those small coins was just a makeshift method. It waslike using a dead horse as a living one. I didnt have confidence in it.


    Perhaps it was because I was in a states dormitory, butI was restless andcouldnt sleep. Before midnight, I was still rollinginthe bed, trying to sleep. After midnight, I was weary but suddenly felt uneasy. It was a panicked feeling I couldnt name. My heart raced. The air around me suddenly stagnated. It seemed time had stopped at this moment.


    Subconsciously, I thought something foul hadenteredmy room. I got up and looked around. There was no wisp of Yin energy in the room. However, the temperature was so lowthat I was chilledto the bone!


    My thoughts wandered back to the fact that I found no wisp of Yin energy in the houses of those dead researchers and experts.Did that thing keep track of me?


    My heart sank at this instant. I felt a pair of sharpeyeslurking inadark corner, watching me. I gulped my salivaandinstinctivelyturnedin that direction. Eventually, my eyes stopped at the door.


    I grabbed the Sirius Whipfrom theside of my pillow. I stood and got a hold of myself. Then, with all of my courage, I walked to the door.


    It was thefirsttime Idfelt so much danger since I hadjoinedthis business.I hadnt seen that thingyet,butit had alreadybrought outfear from the depths of my soul!


    When Iapproached the door, I closed one eyeand focusedon the peephole from a distance. Although itwas a hassle,it made mefeelsafer. I was afraid that once Iwentclose to the door, the other party would suddenly attackand leaveme no chance to dodge.


    I squinted. My heart started to race when I found an eye gazing at me from the other side of the peephole! That eye was scarlet, justas if itwasbleeding. When it faced me, it looked arrogant yet hateful.


    Instantly, I confirmed that it was the murderer! But I didnt know why it looked like it hated me. That thing on the other side of the door gave me a dangerous feeling. It was the only clue I could graspat thismoment. I pulled myself together and opened the door. At the same time, Ished the Sirius Whip rightintothe void!


    Attackingfirst togainthe upper hand was a good habit I had formed.Moreover, this time, I had confirmed that thespirit was out there.I thought my whip could hit it. Unexpectedly, I hit nothing.


    The eye had disappeared. Instinctively, I retreated into the roomandcautiouslylookedaround. I was afraid that it would ambush me. I looked aroundbutfound nothing.


    Suddenly, I recognized that when the eye disappeared, the pressure and panic I felt had also disappeared.


    Phew I heaved a long sigh of relief. I slumpedtothe ground andrestedfor a long moment before I could pull myself together. Ireluctantlygotup.


    It was just a short encounter, but I knew that if I had to face that thing, I wouldnt be its equal opponent. However, I was skeptical as to why ithadetomy door.


    If it wanted to kill me, whydidn''t itenter the room? And,if it didnt want to kill me, whatdidit want?


    After thinking for quite a long time without any result, I felt tired. I went to the door to close it. I wanted to rest. However, I caught the sight of two blood streaks right outside my door.


    I was scared.When I finally got a hold of myself, I stepped forward to see. They were two big words written in blood. Oneword read,Loyalty, butitwas crossed by a dark streak of blood. The other wordread, Death!


    I looked at the two words for a long time as Iwasbewildered. I vaguely thought I could grab the purpose of the spirits current visit. He wanted toconveysome information through these two words. However, I hadnt figured out any possible clues with these two words yet!


    I helplessly closed the door and got on my bedas I triedto figure out something.I slowlydrifted into sleep until I waswokenup by someone banging on my door. I sat up and cleared my head.


    No matter what, Xiao Quan was a staff of the State Security Ministry with greatposure. If it werent something important, he wouldnt be insuch a panickedstate. I didnt have time to put on more clothesand askedhim, Whats wrong?


    Another person wasattacked


    What?! I hadnt expected that the spirit had gone to kill someone after a sudden visit to my room. Xiao Quan, what happened? Someone diedst night?


    Ugh, our target is not dead yet.Xiao Quan was stillin shock.


    I exhaled when he said that. Isignaled at him to continue talking.


    This time, it happened to a leader of the Weapons Research and Development Department. His name is Ye Weiguo.


    Last night, Ye Weiguo haddrunkwith his peer officials until it was almost dawn before going back home. However, as soon as he went through the gate of his house, he felt a strange chill wafting from inside the house. Being cautious, he didnt enter the house but asked his subordinate to go first.


    As soon as his subordinate went through the door, he screeched painfully and copsed. At the same time, Ye Weiguo feltawarm liquidsshon his face. He reached and wiped his cheek, then found warm blood all over his hand. His drunk head sobered up in that instant. He looked into the house and was frightened, as he saw his soldier being chopped intopieces!


    Ye Weiguo screamed. He turned and stumbled his way downstairs. Recently, people from different departments hadbeendiscussingthese serial murder cases. Of course, Ye Weiguo had heard something about this.After seeing the scene, he knew that thing had made him its next target.


    How could Ye Weiguo escape? The spirit didnt chase after him? I asked, thinking it was somewhat strange.


    Xiao Quan nodded and continued to talk.WhenYe Weiguo rushed downstairs, he felt a strange cold wind blowing behind him. His instinct told him that he was in an extremely dangerous situation. He knew that thing was after him. In that difficult moment, his witty brain worked well. He directly ran toward the military base which is next to the experts residential area. It was already dawn and he was luckyto seethe troopersdotheir morning exercises. He ran to them. Thats how hewas able tosave his life. When Xiao Quan came to this part, his face became serious. He asked,What should we do now?


    I didnt answer him. From the surface of the incident, it seemed the collectively strong Yang energy from the soldiers had forced the spirit to leave. However, after thinking about my short encounterst night with thespirit, I had a feeling that it wasnt afraid of the Yang energies of low-rankingsoldiers...


    Why did it leavest night?


    And, the spirit hadlocked ontome as soon as I had joined this case. Whatabout Xiao Quan and his Special Operation Teams members? Thespirit shouldhave kept an eye onthem, too.


    However, they had never told me anything aboutthat. From theway they talkedand their gestures,there was no indication that theyhad encountered any spirit before. It was thestrangestpointinthis case. Still, I didnt ask him to rifythe matter.

 Chapter 570: The Paper Stand-In Technique

    Chapter 570: The Paper Stand-In Technique


    After breakfast, Xiao Quan took me to see Ye Weiguo as he had an appointment with him.


    Ye Weiguo appeared, wearing the standard uniform of a soldier. Hedonneddark green trousers and a loose military uniform vest. Helooked as though he couldmingle with people on the streets and nobody would recognize him.


    Judging from his appearance, I knew that Ye Weiguo had struggled and thrived fromnothingto what he was today. Idalways admired and respected this sort of man. I took the initiative and asked him what had happened.


    He didnt use the arrogant style of anofficialto address me.He actedfriendlyandpoured me a cup of tea. Then, hetold me what he remembered.


    I had listened to him for a while and found that he was telling me the same as what Xiao Quan had told me. The only thing I noticed was that he didnt mention the rtionship between him and the one who had died instead of him.


    However, from his frightened and angry expression, he and the deceased didnt just haveasuperior-subordinatertionship.


    The crime scene was also in the Haidian District. However, as Ye Weiguo was based in Guangzhou, he hade to Beijing this time to join a new weaponsresearch team. Thatwaswhy he didnt bring his family with him. Every day, he stayed in the house that was allocated to him.


    I took a nceat thescene. It wasnt much different from the previousones. This unlucky man was also chopped inhalf. Since he was shed as soon as he passed through the door, his blooddyedthe snow-white painted wall.


    After collecting the information from the crime scene, Xiao Quan asked his staff to remove the dead body. I guessed he did that to facilitate the next operation.


    No matter what, the spirit woulde to trouble Ye Weiguo again. He needed to stay in this house to betheprey. If we left a dismembered body on the floor here,all the people would feelsick.


    However,I had a feeling thatthingswouldnt bethatsimple. I think we should keep the body here. Will you be scared,Sir?


    I came back alive from a counterattack against Vietnam. Iverolled between dead bodies. This doesntscare me. Ye Weiguo sounded bold and strong.


    At noon, when the sunlight was the strongest, I went to the victims houses to check if the coinshadchanged. Indeed, all the coins had turned dark.


    In other words, the spirit had returned to the murder scene. I was skeptical. It had already killed thepeopleit wanted to kill, so why did it return to their houses?


    I had thought about it for quite a long time and didnte up with anyideas. The only thing I could confirm now was that the spirit had used the coins to keep track of me!


    Itreminded me thatI should always put up my guard.


    Ye Weiguo had escaped death once. Would he be able to do it again?


    After pondering for a while, I decided to take action. I needed to know thespirits identity first!


    To ensure Ye Weiguos safety,that afternoon,I went to a shop that sold funeral items to make a paper stand-in. The shop owner was quite skillful. From a distance, the paper stand-in looked simr to a real person. When I put Ye Weiguos clothes on it, even Ye Weiguo was surprised.


    I asked Ye Weiguo about his birthday and birth hour. Then, Iwrotethe informationon a talisman, which Iterstuckon the paper stand-ins forehead. To finish the preparations, I asked Ye Weiguo to cut his fingertip and drip some drops of blood on the talisman.


    It was the tactic called concealing the sky to cross the sea. The spirit targeted and killed people usinga personsYang energy and their blood essence.


    After preparing the paper stand-in with Ye Weiguos birthday and blood, I used the Yang Concealing talisman tohideYe Weiguos Yang energy.Oncethe spiritcame, it would deal with the paper stand-in as ifitwas Ye Weiguo.


    When everything was done, it was twilight. Xiao Quan took us to dinner.


    Mr. Zhang, do you think something unexpectedwillhappen to Ye Weiguo? He asked me over the table.


    It was no wonder Xiao Quan looked panic-stricken when he heard that Ye Weiguo had an ident. It turned out theyhad a goodrtionship. I took a sip from my tumbler of wine. Dont worry. At most, wewillspend the night watching nothing. However, Im sure peoplewillbe safe.


    The Northern people drank generously. Moreover, the two of them were hospitable and friendly. I didnt refrain myself anymoreand drankwith them.


    It wasntlikeI could drink with high-ranking leaders like them every day. I was sure that when I came home and told Li Mazi about this, he would me me for not being generous enough to bring him along.


    Even though I liked to drinka bitin my free time, I rarely drank a lot. Under Xiao Quan and Ye Weiguos continuousencouragement, I was soon drunk. Dreamily, Iidon the table. Since we had something to do at night, they didntinsist on medrinkingmore.


    I hadidon the table for a while. When I felt better and my head stopped spinning, I wanted to use the bathroom. When I lifted my head, Ye Weiguo and Xiao Quan werent there. I asked their assistants andlearnedthat they had gone to the toilet.


    Oh, they even go to pee in unison. Whydontthey share the same trousers I mumbled, then got up to go to the toilet.


    Since we had reserved the entire floor of this hotel, there was no shadowinthe corridor.


    As soon as I reached the toilet room, I couldnt wait anymore. While walking into the restroom, I unbuckled myself. All of a sudden, I heard Xiao Quan shout, Old Ye, please listen to me once, cant you?


    Xiao Quan, we are the peoples soldiers.Ashumans, we cant forget our roots! Ye Weiguos angry voice followed.


    My head boomed at this moment. I knew they hadasecret. I silentlytiptoed to a toilet stall to eavesdrop.


    Xiao Quan suddenly smiledand facedYe Weiguos bold attitude. His tone changed into a persuasive one. Old Ye, my friend, its not something you should care about. You should back off. Why do you want to step into this dirty puddle?


    Dont talk nonsense. Im a loyal Chinese. As long as I am not dead, I am not going to let them do that! Ye Weiguo sounded strangely enraged. However, theargument ended here. I heard the doormand Ye Weiguogruntbeforeleaving.


    At this moment, only Xiao Quan was in the restroom. I inched toward the door of my stall to peep through the slit. The man was clenching his fists. His red eyesgazedat the direction Ye Weiguowent. He spat maliciously, Haha,Im sorry, then!Then, he left. It took me a lot of time to pull myself together and react to the situation.


    Xiao Quan had probably done something dirty that Ye Weiguo had identally discovered. Being a righteous and straightforward soldier, Ye Weiguo wanted to report him. Xiao Quan knew he couldnt persuade him, so he wanted to murder him.


    This was the yground of the officials. There was no smoke from the muzzle, but it was more ruthless than any battlefield. Of course, I didnt want to put my nose in their business.Butnow, I was suspicious that Xiao Quan was somehow rted to these serial murder cases.


    It was logical that Xiao Quanwentto talk to Ye Weiguo after themanhad undergone a horrible incident. Still,although I had just listened to thetter half of their conversation, I felt it sounded like an ultimatum!


    While thinking, I heard Xiao Quancallme from the corridor. I knew I mustntlet them know that I had eavesdropped on them. Otherwise,perhaps I wouldnt even know how I had died.


    As the footsteps drew nearer, I took the opportunityto crawlout the window. Ifollowed thedrainpipeto reach the room upstairs at my maximumspeed.


    Mr. Zhang, where have you been?


    When I returned to thediningroom, I saw Ye Weiguo drinking alone. He looked a little down. He poured me another tumbler when he saw me.


    I pretended to know nothingand drankwith him. A momentter, Xiao Quan rushedinto theroom. His facelookedworried. When he saw me, he heaved a gentle sigh of relief. Mr. Zhang, where did you go?


    I went downstairs for some fresh air. I felt dizzy I pretended to be drunk. My voice was drowsy.However, I had discreetly started to put up a guard against Xiao Quan. I had a feeling thatthere was someconspiracy!


    After drinking, we stayed in the hotel to rest. At around twilight, we returned to Ye Weiguos house. The paper stand-in was tucked in bed during the day. Now, we needed to check itonesttime. We didnt want anymistakes.


    After confirming that everything was all right, I left the house and waited in the car. I gave Ye Weiguo a Yang Concealing Talisman. He didnt trust the talisman, so he put itinhis pocket. Anyway, the talisman still worked even if he kept it in his pocket. I didntment on anything.


    As the night grewdeeper, the temperature dropped. Irolledup the window. Inadvertently, I took a glimpse of Xiao Quan grunting through the rearview mirror. He looked as though he was contemting something.


    The spirit would show upatany minute. Looking at Xiao Quans anxious countenance,it was easy to guess why he was worried. I decided to pretendto bedozing off. I leaned on the whend sleptwhile calcting things.


    If Xiao Quan did something in the next moment, should I bust him? If I let him do what he wanted, perhaps Ye Weiguos lifewould be over tonight. But if I interfered, I would offend Xiao Quan


    And, if I let him run away,it would be toote to regret it.After all, hehadmy criminal profile!


    At thismoment, I felt so anxious, more than I had ever felt before.OnceXiao Quan made a move, I would have no room to advance or retreat!

 Chapter 571: Guan Yu of the Five Tiger Generals

    Chapter 571: Guan Yu of the Five Tiger Generals


    I hoped that Xiao Quan was juspetingwithYe Weiguo. Unfortunately,thingsdidnt seem that way. After I hadclosedmy eyes for a few minutes, Xiao Quan started to call me softly. Of course, I didnt answer him. Then, he told Ye Weiguo that he needed to use the bathroom and left the car.


    After he left, my eyes shot open.


    Ye Weiguo was startled. I thought you were sleeping.


    No matter what, he was an outstanding soldier. He soon recognized that I was cautious against Xiao Quan.


    Ye Weiguo cleared his throat. Mr. Zhang, this habit of yours isnt good. Ourrade Xiao Quan is focusing on solving these murder cases. How couldhe be involved?


    I had forgotten that they werehigh-rankingsoldiers, notsome thugs on the streets.Ye Weiguo needed but a nce to know mythoughts.Anyway, he still seemed oblivious to the factthat Xiao Quan wanted to take his life.


    While I was thinking about how to reveal this to him, Xiao Quan returned. He smiled at me when he got into the car. Oh, you woke up.


    Other people would think that he had just given me a normal greeting.However,it was more than that!


    He wasnt sure if I knew about his n, so he had deliberately left the car atacritical moment.In hindsight, if he wasnt suspecting me,why would he be stupid enough to leave the car in such a dangerous moment and venue?


    Iwas blinded by a quicksess, and now,I didnt know how to deal with the current situation.


    Suddenly, Ye Weiguo said, I thought that youhad run away, so I woke Mr. Zhang up to talk with me.


    I hadnt expected Ye Weiguo to haveamind-reading ability. Hed helped me out ofanawkward situation. Xiao Quan was bewildered. He looked at me with skeptical eyes. It seemed he hadnt confirmed his assumption yet.


    I exhaled and pretended that nothing had happened. I lit up a cigarette and turned to look at Ye Weiguo.


    I feel quite sleepy.Im going to smoke, too. Ye Weiguo was also a smoker. Hereached foracigarette pack inhis pocket.


    Theres no need to dig. Here, take mine. Xiao Quan smiled and offered Ye Weiguo a cigarette. We didnt talkaswisps of smoke started to twirl around the car.


    Because of the smoke, I couldnt see Xiao Quans face. Still, I subconsciously felt that something was wrongwithhim. After smoking, I wanted toleave the carfor some fresh air.But at this moment, Ye Weiguo vomited blood.


    Whats wrong? Iasked worriedly as I helped to support him.


    Xiao Quan wore a puzzled face. He told me to take care of Ye Weiguo while hetried to call the doctor.


    I feel like mybody is beinghacked into two pieces! That was all Ye Weiguo could tell me before he fainted.


    I was baffled. When I pulled myself together, I checked his pockets. The Yang Concealing Talisman I had given him was nowhere to be found!


    Still,he had never left the car! Soon, I got it. Xiao Quan had left the car and returned shortly after. He had stolen the Yang Concealing Talisman and gone out to destroy it.


    My speed and reflexes were especiallygood; not many people could perform stealthy tricks under my eyes. However, Xiao Quan had stolen the Yang Concealing Talisman and nobody had foundout. He was fierce!


    The emergency team arrived fast, but Xiao Quan was nowhere to be seen. I felt a little relieved. I knew he was waiting for the news. If Ye Weiguo died, he would regain the right to speak.


    If Ye Weiguo didnt die, Xiao Quan would be in trouble. He had stolen the talisman, which exposed his evil deed.


    I was worried that Xiao Quan would go to the hospital tofinish offYe Weiguo. Fortunately, the ambnce came with Ye Weiguos closerades. I thought that nothing dangerous would happen to him.


    Asthe others left, I grabbed the Sirius Whip and crazily dashed upstairs. Judging from Ye Weiguos strong reaction, his soul wasundoubtedlyhit hard.


    The birth datehad a connection with the soul.I believed the spirit was upstairs andhad attacked the paper stand-in!


    When Iwentupstairs, I switched on the light. At first nce, I found that the realistic paper stand-in was now separated into halves. Although I had a strange feeling that something else was wrong, I couldnt point out what it was.


    As soon as Iwas aboutto leave, a cold wind came from above. I wielded the Sirius Whip instinctively. At the same time, I leaned and rolled forward. When I got up, I saw a shadow standing at my previous spot.


    That shadow was a cyan color and had a long beard. He was holding a giant cold weapon.It seemed this cyan shadow had killed those victims. But since the spirit was cing his hands behind his back, I couldnt see what kind of weaponhe was holding.


    While I was looking at him, he was eyeing me. However, his eyes seemed sharp enough to be able to drill through my soul.He was the one that stood in front of my rooms peephole yesterday.


    I didnt knowmuchabout thisopponent, so I didnt dare to attack first.Unexpectedly, the shadow had a skeptical gleam on his face after studying me for a while. In the next second, he shed and disappeared.


    What kind of trick is this? I was confused. After I was sure that the spirit had left, I went to check the stand-in doll. Indeed,there was aproblem!This paper stand-in had Ye Weiguos birthday on it, but it wasnt the one I had bought!


    I clearlyremembered that to persuade the spirit, I had intentionally given the craftsman Ye Weiguos portrait. Even Ye Weiguo agreed that it looked like him. However, this broken paper doll hadaface simr to Xiao Quan!


    Onlythe three of us knew about this paper stand-in n!Xiao Quan couldnt havereced the doll withadoll that had his face! The person who had done that was Ye Weiguo!


    But why did he do that...?


    After considering Ye Weiguospersonality, I suddenly thoughtofa possibility.Ye Weiguo wasnt attacked by the spirit. He had fabricated the storyabout beingthe spirits target!


    And, his soldier, whoappearedto be murdered instead of him, was the one the spirit wanted to kill! I had this thought because the spirit hade to me even before Ye Weiguos incident, and ithadleft me two words.


    At that time, Ididnt knowhow the word Death and the word Loyalty,which was crossed, were rted to each other. Tonight, after knowing the secret between Ye Weiguo and Xiao Quan, my thoughtswereclear.


    The spirit wanted to tell me that those who were disloyal should die! In other words, he had warnedme to notstand in his way of killing those disloyal people. If so, those who were murdered were from the same sideasXiao Quan.


    It also meant that Ye Weiguo had known everything, and he tried to find the opportunity to take advantage of the spirit to deal with Xiao Quan and his team. Themanhad just pretended to bedumb.


    As the spirit had killed only bad guys, Ye Weiguowasntlikelyabad guy.Instinctively, I thought he was a good man.


    I had good eyes when it came to assessing people. Ye Weiguo had given me the impression of an honest and righteous person. He had be heartless for the sake of his country, but I thought it was eptable. I even gotaclue of who the spirit could be.


    Aperson that always talked about loyaltyandwore cyan clothes with a red face and had a long beard There was only one historical character that fitted these features.Itwas Guan Yu!


    Guan Yu was a legendary figure during the Three Kingdoms period. In the peach garden, he hadbesworn brother with Liu Bei and Zhang Fei. Holding thefifty kilogramsGreen Dragon Crescent de and riding the Red Hare steed, he had beheaded Yan Liang and killed Wen Chou. He was matchless in the world.


    Even though Cao Cao had rewarded him with a generous amount of wealth,countless beauties,and threw parties for him every three days and big banquets every five days, Guan Yu didnt yield to him.


    Eventually, in the name of loyalty, Guan Yu traveled thousands of miles alone on his steed to leave Cao Caos side. Hereturned to Liu Bei, hissworn brother.


    Afterward, Guan Yubecamethe leader of the Five Tiger Generals of Shuhan. Unfortunately, he died in the battle of Jingzhou. His loyaltywaspraised by theter generations. In recognition of Guan Yus loyal and righteous spirit, the emperor of the next generationgrantedhim the posthumous title as the Saint of War, or Guan Di (Emperor Guan). All the Guan Di temples in the Maind were built tomemorate him.


    If that spiritwasnt wieldingthe Green Dragon Crescent de, Idont thinkhe wouldhave beenable tocutpeople in half that easily. When he showed up, he looked casual,whichpreventedme from recognizing his identity. Unfortunately, his features were too obvious. It wasnt difficult to see who he was!


    As Guan Yu was confused about me, I guessed he didnt know which side I was on. However, I was invited by Xiao Quan. Thatwas why he was hostile toward me.


    Today,I metYe Weiguo andbecamehis friend. Plus, I was holding the Sirius Whip  the symbol of righteousness  in my hand. It was understandable that Guan Yu wasnt clear about my motive.


    At the same time, if Xiao Quanwason the spirits cklist and he had survived until now, I guessed he would have a guardian or was a colleague of mine. He was just pretending to be a nice piggy that wanted toeata tiger when he got the right chance!


    Anyway, Ye Weiguos move had caused losses to both sides.Not onlydidXiao Quangethurt, buthe also hurthimself.


    The moment Ye Weiguo got hurt, I caught a glimpse of pain on Xiao Quans face. At that time, I thought he flinched because he was worried about his friend. I hadnt thought it was because his soul was hurt.


    I felt happy with these findings. But soon, I pulled myself together and started tofenxious. I was able to figure out that Ye Weiguo had reced the paper stand-in.Thismeant that Xiao Quanwould alsoreachthe same conclusion!


    At thismoment, the two sides had already turned their backs to each other. They wouldnt stop until oneof themdied.


    One more piece of evidence was that, when Ye Weiguo got hurt, his people came with the medical team. It was easy to tell that he had nned things well beforehand.


    It was clear now.OnceYe Weiguo was discharged from the hospital, he would use all of his power to finish Xiao Quan. Under such circumstances, Xiao Quans onlyway of protectinghimself was to make sure that Ye Weiguo would neverwakeup again.


    Ye Weiguo would be in grave danger, and his people were just ordinary soldiers. If Xiao Quanhad anexpert like me on his side, the situation would be very tough to deal with.


    WhatI wasworried about themost was that I was now forced to stand on the same sideasYe Weiguo. I couldnt retreat. As long as Ye Weiguo died, the right to speak would belong to Xiao Quan. At that time, even if Xiao Quan didntknow my secrets, Iwould fail toexin my rtion toYe Weiguos death.Before Ye Weiguo was taken to the ambnce, I was dumb enough to check his pockets and leavemy fingerprintsbehind


    With this thought, I rushed out of the houseand headedto the hospital. When I got there, I sawa hoardof policemen and soldiers surrounding the hospital from a distance. It seemed they were guarding the entire hospital.

 Chapter 572: The Traitor that Sells His Country

    Chapter 572: The Traitor that Sells His Country


    I knew I couldnt just get in there to check on him. I took a walk around the hospital to find a way to sneak in.


    Finally, I found that the back door of the hospital wasnt guarded. However, when Iwentnear to see, I flinched. This ce hadastinky water ditchthat was three meters wide. Not only did it havedischargedwastewater, but italso hadfeces and wasted human organs.


    I had no other option. I had to jump over this horrible ditch. After lingering at the edge for a long time, I hadnt gathered enough courage to jump.Ihelplessly looked around to find a simple bridge. Any kind of bridge would do.


    It was too bad there was not a single wooden board that I could usebesidesfor a stack of white rubbish piledup like a mountain.After standing in a daze for a while, I suddenly had a solution:beckon and rideaspirit!


    Abeckoned spirit could help me travel fast. Every time I invited a spirit, it helped me move faster, but I hadnt tried a far-distance jump yet.


    I carried out my n immediately.The momentI was about to inviteawild ghost, I heard rattling footsteps behind me.


    My heart sank.Damn, those policemen are so professional! They got me right when Ireached the back door!


    I was ready to flee when I heard Xiao Quans voice. When we goin there, theresno need to show mercy. Well kill Ye Weiguo then pinthe crime on that boy Zhang. Well be safe


    Haha, clever trick! Amiddle-aged mans voice appraised Xiao Quans suggestion.


    That voice sounded familiar. Hiding behind the pile of rubbish, I movedslightly to the sideto see the source of the voices. At first nce, I saw Xiao Quan. The man standing next to him was the Team Leader of the State Security Ministrys Special Operation Team,Jiang Shan!


    Holymoly, snakes and rats sure share the den. I was enragedandmy teeth felt itchy. It wasnt because they had plotted againstme. I was angrythatthey were the elite force of the state and they had joined hands to do bad things.


    They werent different from the corrupted imperial courtiers in ancienttimes. I clenched my jaw and made up my mind. I would help Ye Weiguo eliminate Jiang Shan and Xiao Quan.


    The two of them were standing at the edge of the ditch around a few meters away from me. It seemed they couldnt enter the hospital from the front because of the police. Theyhadchosenthe back door like me.


    But as theyweretwo people, they could move easier. Jiang Shan squatted by the ditch with both hands in front of him, forming support.It seemed he would be the support for Xiao Quan to get to the other side.


    Things didnt lookgood, but I couldnt stop them. They hadnt done anything bad yet, and they couldckmailme if I showed up now.


    Xiao Quan took a few steps back then started to run and jumped on Jiang Shans hands, which reflexed and sent him forward. Hended on the other side of the stinky ditch, then gave Jiang Shan an OK gesture. With a dark smile, he entered the hospital.


    If I lingered here,Ye Weiguo would be killed. As soon as Xiao Quanwentinto the hospital, I directly hurled myself toward Jiang Shan and hit him at his temple. But the man was tough enough. He didnt lose his consciousness.After receiving my punch, he only staggered a little bit.


    Youheard everything, right? Jiang Shan asked maliciously as herolled his eyes at me.


    I didnt have time to talk nonsense with him. I attacked him again. Jiang Shan just sneered and counterattacked. Although he had skills, hedidnt workin my business. As I had ambushed him sessfully, he was slow now. I took the right chance and sprinkled cinnabar powder overhis eyes.


    Argh Jiang Shan covered his eyes and screeched. However, as he was afraid that he could alert the cops out there, he had to refrain himself. I didnt try to be politeanddirectly punchedandkickedJiang Shan. I repeatedly hit him until he was unconscious.


    Then, I confiscated all of hismunication tools and buried him in the pile of rubbish. I lefthis head out so that he wouldntsuffocateto death.


    After everything was done, I knew itwould beimpossible to chase after Xiao Quan now. I hoped thatYe Weiguossubordinateswouldhold him downfor a while.


    Then, I summoned a ghost. The ghostwassobonythat he seemed to only have ayer of skincoveringhis skeleton. I told him Ye Weiguos birthday.


    Fortunately, my shirthadsome bloodstainsfrom the timeYe Weiguo vomited blood. The skinny ghost sensed Ye Weiguos blood, thentookme up to the fifth floor. He hoveredbythe outside block of the air conditioner.


    Is Ye Weiguo inside? My legs were shaking, but I ignored my acrophobia.


    The bony ghost nodded.Suddenly, I heard someone screech fromthe room, followedbythe sound of a brawl. It seemed Xiao Quan was attacking Ye Weiguos soldiers.


    I tried to pull the window panels. Luckily for me, they werent locked. I let the wild ghost leave and pushed the window open to jump in. I saw Ye Weiguo sitting on his bed. Heangrily lookedat the door to his patient room. When he saw methrough the window, he wasnt startled. He gave me a faint smile.


    I turned and followed his line of sight. Ye Weiguos subordinates were all iron-blood soldiers.He was well prepared toput an end toXiao Quans murderous act. I guessed the scream I had heard was from one of his soldiers Xiao Quan had attacked.


    Ye Weiguo was all right. I rxed my nerves andwentto his bed. You pretended to be seriously wounded, right?


    Yest, it was thest chance Igave toXiao Quan. Unfortunately, he didnt take it. Ye Weiguo sighedand handedme a document. I received it and opened it. It was the profiles of the victims of this case. I was doubtful because I had read this document before.


    Keep reading, Ye Weiguo wore a dark face.


    I had to be patient and continued reading. In the end, I dropped my jaw. The more I read, the more frightened Ifelt.


    Indeed, it wasasI had imagined.The peoplewho were murdered were Jiang Shan and Xiao Quans subordinates.At first, I thought that the worst thingsthey had donewerereceive bribes or embezzlement or gatherup their party. I had never thought that they hadmitted treason! They had made use of their positions to steal documents about the weapons the state was developing andsoldthem to foreign forces, whichgrantedthem millions and millions! In short, it was a team of traitors led by Jiang Shan and Xiao Quan.


    I had a good rtionship with Xiao Quan. I found out his secret when I visited his house one day. Itheninvestigated everything. Ye Weiguo sounded reluctant. After I collected theevidence, I didnt dare to submit thereportto my superior immediately. The Special Operation Team is thetreasureof the Ministry of State Security.Unless I cancatch them in the middle of the act, itll be tough to bring them to justice. Moreover, from my side, I hoped that my brother Xiao Quan would listen to me and step away from this affair. Xiao Quan didnt listen.Right whenI didnt know what to do, Guan Yu showed up


    Thats why you were watching the development of the case. You werewaiting for a chance. When theybroughtme here to deal with the ghost, you knew your chance hade, right?I smiledand feltscared of Ye Weiguo. He hadseenthe big picture, which included all of the people involved in this affair.


    Ye Weiguo didnt deny it. He pointed at the soldiers who were fighting outside. Mr. Zhang, Im happy that youre here. However, today, you dont need to do anything. Just stand here and watch the show.


    I knew he hadmade preparationsfor something else. I didnt want to care about this, but still, I had to think about Guan Yu.


    It would be strange forGuan Yus soulto be stilllingering in this mortal world. Thus, it could be a wisp of his soul or some fixation of his that had dwelled in an otherworldly item. Moreover, theotherworldlyitemhad tobe in theHaidian District.


    I looked at Ye Weiguo as I wanted to ask him if he had any clue. However, after thinking about his smile that hid daggers, my heart sank as another idea exploded in my head. Could it be that the spirit of Guan Yu was killing people because of Ye Weiguos maniption?


    Given the tacitunderstanding between him and Guan Yu, it was possible. Anyway, it wasnt the right time to ask these questions. If Xiao Quans life endedhere, Ye Weiguo would have the power.


    My lifehadshifted from one hand to another. Ye Weiguo just looked a little moretrustworthythan his friend


    The police siren howled downstairs. I came to the window and saw many policemengoupstairs. It turned out to be the show Ye Weiguo wanted me to see. Soon, the policemen swarmed his patient room. As the victim,Ye Weiguo exined to them that Xiao Quan wanted to kill him. He even showed the police a clipofXiao Quanshootinghim with his pistol.


    Then, Ye Weiguo unbuttonedhis shirt in front of the policemen, whichrevealedthebulletproof vest he wore inside.


    He pointed at the policeman who led the teamand shouted,No high-rank officer is standinghere.There is just amurderer andavictim. Officer, I hope youwillbring me justice.


    All right, sir! The policeman saluted him, then escorted the subdued Xiao Quan downstairs.I wanted to see him, so I curiously followed the policemen.


    Unexpectedly, Xiao Quan turned his head to see me. Our eyes met. He didnt look worried at all. He even smiled.


    I was puzzled, and when I got a hold of myself, the policemen had left. The hospital was empty now.


    Imade up my mindto go to Ye Weiguos house to see if I could find some clues about the otherworldly item. But before I left the hospital, I heard someone screaming. It was Ye Weiguos voice!


    Damn it! Recalling Xiao Quans expressionfromwhen the policemen took him away, I suddenly recognized that he wanted the police to arrest himso thatsomeone elsewould have the chance to take action!


    I rushed back to the patient ward. When I saw the scene inside, I was dumbstruck!

 Chapter 573: Ye Weiguo Was Murdered

    Chapter 573: Ye Weiguo Was Murdered


    Ye Weiguo was dead. He was chopped inhalf, and his blood had sshed everywhere. His intestines littered the bed, dripping blood to the ground.


    It must havebeen doneby Guan Yu. Except for him, no one coulmit such a horriblecrime. I guessed Ye Weiguowas able tolet out a screambecause his bulletproof vest had resisted the de for a while. Otherwise, hewouldnthave hada chance to scream.


    I didnt know why Guan Yu wanted to kill Ye Weiguo. Did Ye Weiguo hide something from me?


    Ye Weiguos subordinates were shivering in fright when they saw the scene. I knewthings werentas simple asthat. I grabbed the cor of one of themand yelled, What happened?


    J-Just recently, while our leader wasughing, a shadow holding a big de appeared. Our leader screamed painfully. When we got ourselves together, he was


    The mans voice was intermittent, butI could understand his words. Ifhe wasprotecting Ye Weiguo, hehad tobe his close subordinate. He mustknow something. I asked the others to leave theroom. Then, Iasked him to tell me allthathe knew.


    Why did Ye Weiguough before he died?The mannced at mebut didnt say anything. Ye Weiguoisdead. Ifthiscontinues, well all die. Do you understand this?


    Feeling hopeless, I had to call the others who had witnessed the murder toe back to the room. I rolled my eyes at them and said that they would follow in his footsteps if they didnt talk. I wasnt bluffing.Since Ye Weiguo was dead,theyhad to bear the punishment too.


    They had apanied their leader for quite a long time. All of them had mastered many skills, so they knew what was best for them. After a while, they started to talk in fright. What should we do now?


    Have you called the police? I asked worriedly. If Ye Weiguos deathbecameknown, the people in this room, including me, would be the target of the critiques. Fortunately, they shook their heads.


    I exhaled. For the time being, try to conceal this news. Moreover, be honest and tell me what Ye Weiguodidbefore hewas killed.


    Before our leader was murdered,hegaveus an order. He asked us to burn the Emperor Quan temple in Shiwu Lipu. Then, to kill you too! One of Ye Weiguos subordinates couldnt endure the pressure. He told me the truth. I was enraged after listening to him.


    If Ye Weiguo wanted to demolish the Guan Yu Temple in Shiwu Lipu, that ce would haveartion with Guan Yus spirit. Moreover, it alsoprovedthat the spirit had killed people under his influence.


    But I didnt know why he wanted to kill me. I didnt know any weaknesses of his.


    Do you know anything else? I asked.


    Leader Yediscreetly contacted foreign forces many times. I guessed its the cause of the dispute between him and Xiao Quan.


    You know about their dispute. Thats why he wanted to kill you too! Since one of them had started it, as soon as I asked, the othersbegan tellingme what they knew.


    I got it now. Ye Weiguo had tried all means to destroy Xiao Quan, but it wasntfor this country. It was because Xiao Quan had stood in his path to great wealth. In other words, he wanted to eliminate Xiao Quan and rece him to earn more money from the foreign forces!


    If he killedme, he would feel somewhat safer. I looked atYe Weiguosdeadbody, and my stomachchurnedin disgust. He had perfectlydisguised himselfas a righteous person. If his subordinates didnt tell me the truth, I would have never believed that he was a bad guy.


    I thoughtthenasked Ye Weiguos team to submit the crimeevidenceof Xiao Quan and his people to the government. Although it couldnt take Xiao Quan down right now, he would be damaged.


    Then, I left the hospital and took a taxi to go to the temple in Shiwu Lipu. On the way there, I asked the driver about the ce.


    Its a small town in the western suburbs. Its famous for the well-preserved ancient houses.The general architecture thereis from the Qing dynasty.This ce has better views than Phoenix Ancient TownandPingyao Ancient Town. Unfortunately, its close to the Forbidden City.Not many people know about that ce, as most of the tourists are attracted by the Forbidden City. Recently,the movie and television industries have beenthriving. There are more and more film crewsing to filmin the ancient town.People are gradually getting to know about Shiwu Lipu.


    As soon as I gotout of the car,I was attracted by the style of the buildings in the town. The neatly arranged courtyards lookedmajestic. Rows of parasol trees were nted along the small paths. The chimneys on the roof were made of blue y brick.All of them were full of charm.


    If Iwasnt in a hurryto find the Guan Yu Temple, I would have liked to stay here for a few days. Since it waste at night, there werent many people walking on the streets. However, the roads were well-lit with many streetmps. I guessed they werefor touristslike me.


    I hadwalkedfor a short time when I reached the center of the town. There was a big disy board that read, Wee to Shiwu Lipu for sightseeing.


    I wasworried that I couldnt find the Guan Yu Temple, so this advertising board could be helpful.However, it turned out the billboard didnt mention anything about the Guan Yu Temple.


    I was puzzled.Doesthis ce have a Guan Yu Temple?


    Who was Guan Yu? He was the Saint of War of China!Fromancient times to themodern-day, he was the paradigm of loyalty and righteousness. The stone he touched or the ce where he died would be a monument, let alone his temple!


    To the people in ShiwuLipu, tourism wasone of their concerns.Why did they give up this opportunity? I thought therecouldbe a discrepancy here. I studied the billboard again to see if I could catch any words about loyalty and righteousness.


    Still, I got nothing. But I believed that thest order Ye Weiguo had given wasnt fake. Moreover, his subordinates couldnt get away from this. They had no reason to trick me.


    So, wherewasthe problem?


    I reluctantly left the big board and was about toaskthe locals for information.But whenI turned around, I foundastrange feature.


    The entire ShiwuLipuTown was shaped like an egg, which was divided into many small blocks with the names of the scenic spots. Even the residential areasandconveniencestores were marked. However, I spotted a nk space that had no mark at all.


    In a scenic area like this, every square inch ofnd wasworth somegold.Such a vast space couldnt exist. Evenif there was astructure or a river, it should have a name.


    If I were hereunder normal circumstances,Iwouldn''t care about it. But now, I was somewhat certain that it was where theGuan Yu Temple was situated!


    I found my current location on the map and memorized the directions of that empty lot. With my intuition, I found my way there.


    The town wasnt big. After I had walked for arounda dozen minutes,the road was blocked.Not only in front of me, but all the other directions were blocked from where I was standing. In other words, the unmarked area on the map over there was encircled.


    I touched the iron fence and found a thickyer of rust. At some spots, the rust churned up.It seemed the iron fencehad beenhere for years. I walked around the ce anddidnt see anentrance. I became bewildered and skeptical.


    If Guan Yu Temple was inside, how could Ye Weiguo have entered this ce? Also,if itwasnta temple, what was this ce?


    To prevent intruders, this iron fence was around three meters high. Barbed wire was deliberately installedaroundit. Fortunately, I knew how to invite spirits to carry me. I immediately asked a spirit to jump over the fence andtake methere.


    However, as soon as wended, the wild ghost turned into a wisp of smoke and fled before I could offer my blood to it


    Looking at the ghost leaving in fright, I suddenly recognized that Icouldbe in great trouble. However, as I was here, I had to clench my jaw and continueforward.


    The ce inside the fence wasnt different from the ces outside. There were ancient buildings, and some of thetrees looked so old and weathered. However, there was no street light here.I turned on the shlight and moved forward. Eventually, I stood in front of a rtively imposing temple.


    The temple had a ck que, but the words on it were wiped out after yearsofdifferent kinds of weather.


    I didnt want to linger at the door. I cautiouslysteppedin. From the entrance, I saw the altar,which had a statue. Iwentnearer and took in a deep breath. It was Guan Yu!

 Chapter 574: Riding a Thousand Miles Alone

    Chapter 574: Riding a Thousand Miles Alone


    I was anxious. But soon, I recognized that except for the fierce-looking Guan Yu statue, this temple didnt haveadangerous or suffocating aura.It seemedGuan Yus spirit wasnt hereat thismoment.


    If Ye Weiguo wanted to burn down this temple, I guessed therewassomething important here. I searched around and found one memory card and a document inside a y jar.


    The documents content could be divided into two parts. One was the evidence of Xiao Quans teammitting treason. The other was the conversations between Ye Weiguo and Xiao Quan, in which Ye Weiguo implicitly mentioned that he wanted Xiao Quan to retreat from this affair to let him take over and continue the business with the foreign forces.


    This document could take both of them down. I had to admire Ye Weiguo. He had prepared very well in case he lost to Xiao Quan bypilingtheircriminal records together.


    After all, ifhe lost, hedhavenothing to lose. But tonight, as he had defeated Xiao Quan, he had ordered his subordinates to destroy thistemple!


    I put the memory card into mycell phone. It contained only videos, including Xiao Quan meeting with the foreign spies, transactions of money,and sex.


    After checking the memory card, I was angry, but I could finally heave a sigh of relief. With these pieces of evidence, I was safe.


    After carefullystoringthe document, I was ready to leave the Guan Yu Temple. When I walked past the statue, I inadvertently saw Guan Yus eyes from the corner of my eyes. They were open. When I first got here, I had checked the statue. He had his eyes closed at that time!


    People believed thataGuan Yu statue shouldnt ever haveopenedeyes. If it did, it would kill people.Asan otherworldly merchant, I believed in this legend, but I had never expected to encounter such a situation myself.


    I wondered if I had the power to fight against Guan Yu. For the time being, I was worried.


    However, even after a long time, I hadnt feltanydanger. Stillfeelingpuzzled, I receiveda call fromYe Weiguos subordinate.


    Mr. Zhang, Jiang Shan was shed in half! He sounded both worried and excited.


    I sat on the ground. It turned out Guan Yu didnt want to kill me,but Jiang Shan.


    If Guan Yu had done hisdeed, he would return here soon. I shouldnt linger! I got up to leave the temple. When I was at the threshold, I subconsciously turned to check the statue again. His eyes were still open wide!


    I suddenly realized that Guan Yu wouldnt stop until he had killed all the traitors. And,frommy understanding, Xiao Quan was the only traitor still alive


    I had to expose Xiao Quans crime before Guan Yucould killhim. Otherwise,there would be no one alive to tell the truth. Even if Ihadthe evidence, Imightbe used of murder.


    I returned to the hospital as fast as possible. Through Ye Weiguos subordinates connection, I contacted Ye Weiguos close friends, who were also high-rank officers, and asked them to spread Xiao Quans crime to the superiors at their fastest speed.


    Of course, to show my sincerity, I sent them all the videos in the memory card thatshowedXiao Quanmitting the crime.


    After watching them, they directly contacted the Secretary of the Disciplinary Inspection Commission and submitted Xiao Quans crime evidence.


    Theguysfrom the Disciplinary Inspection Commission were honestpeople. Afterwatching the videosofXiao Quan contactingforeign spies anmittingtreason, they all paled in rage. The leader suddenly mmed the tableand roared, Investigate them! We have to take them one by one!


    Sir Mr. Secretary, can you wait for a second? I hadconsideredtellingthe Secretary about Ye Weiguos deaththe momenthewalked intothe room. Due to his high position, I thought I could hide his death for a night atmost. If someone else found out about it before I reported the case, I would be found guilty too.


    The best solution now was to find support before the news spread out. The Secretary of the Disciplinary Inspection Commission had power and worked efficiently. He lookedlike a good person,too. He was a good choice for me now.


    What do you want to tell me?The Secretary asked with an emotionless face.


    When he got into the room, he had noticed me, but he didnt want to cause moremotion at the time.My nce lingered at the people standing next to him. I bit my lower lip and didnt say anything. He was a little surprised. Then, he dismissed his people with a wave of his hand. After everybodyleft, I coldlysaid, Ye Weiguoisdead. If Im notwrong, Xiao Quans subordinateshave beenkilled too


    What? He had just sat down and when he heard me, he sprang up againand rolledhis eyes. He shouted, Repeatwhat you just said!


    I told him about the situation one more time. Moreover, I told him everything from the time they hade to my antique shop until now.


    Of course, I didnt tell him that Jiang Shan had ckmailed me. I told himthat sinceit was the call of my country, I had agreed to helpthemwithout any condition


    While I was talking, the Secretarydidntinterrupt me. However, his face strangely changed from time to time. His brows mmed together when I told him about Ye Weiguo and Xiao Quans conversation in the hotels restroom. However, he had a hint of happiness on his face when he knew that Ye Weiguo had discreetly investigated Xiao Quan.


    The Secretary kept silent for quite a long time after I had finished talking. Then, he told me with a warm voice,Young man, do what you need to do. My people will try their best to cooperate with you.


    Mr. Secretary, please expose Xiao Quans crime to your superior. Otherwise, if he dies, Illhave to I didnt finish talking. I had inexplicitly told him that I didnt wholly trust his Disciplinary Investigation Commission.


    Haha! The Secretary smiled then made a call. He sounded as though he was asking for someones opinion. After finishing the call, he saidwithhis chest thrust out,Ive asked for my leaders direction. He gave me these words: Iron-blood attack, close the case ASAP!


    I exhaled in relief. It meant they had the sameideaasme. The Disciplinary Inspection Commission worked fast. They found the various crimes Xiao Quan hadmitted.When they tookXiao Quans oral confession, I was there too. I found that Xiao Quan was a scumbag even worse than what I had imagined. Not only did hemit treason, he even used his position to facilitate corruption,murder,and more...


    It was the fastest death sentence I had ever seen. Within twenty-four hours, Xiao Quanwastransferred to the Military Court. As he had created serious damage andwasa big threatto society, the Court condemned him guilty with an immediate death sentence.


    After Xiao Quan was sentenced, with the helpofthe Disciplinary Investigation Commission, I brought the ashes of the deceased to Shiwu Lipu Town and presented them in front of Guan Yu.


    Ilit candlesandincense. When the smoke started to twirl, I closed my eyes and read thesacredtext of Daoism, and presented their crime to Guan Yu. I also apologizedin their ce.


    In the end, I respectfully gave Guan Yu three kowtows. Except for my grandpa, no one else had received such honor and respect from me.


    It wasnt that I was afraid of Guan Yu. I admired him for his loyalty and righteousness. Evenwhenhe was in Cao Caos base, his heart wasalways with his people!


    WhenI got up, I saw that Guan Yus eyes were now closed. I felt the suffocating pressure one more time. But it didnt feel dangerous this time. Strangely, I felt warm.


    Guan Yu had returned to protect thisnd, bringing with him the courage that hadnever worn out after two thousand years.Let alone the fact that I wasnt his opponent, even if I could defeat him, I wouldnt do that!


    After attending Xiao Quans funeral,avan that carried seven or eight famous officialsexperienceda horrible car crash. All the officials inside the car were dead, and among them was Ye Weiguo.


    It was theexnation theDisciplinary Investigation Commission came up with. Although it sounded weird, it was the only solution now


    I thought about leavingafter the murder case was solved. However, I was worried that GuanYu wouldkill people again, so I decided to stay in Shiwu Lipu for a while. Iwould take sometime and travel to see some scenic sights as well.


    Another weekhadgone by. Beijing had gradually recovered its calmness. My worries were eased. I bid farewell to the Secretary of Disciplinary Investigation Commission.


    Anyway, if Xiao Quan and his team had been loyal to theircountry, would they have hadsuch an ending?


    While I waspondering, I thought I saw a horseman riding the Red Hare with the Green Dragon Crescent de in his hand, galloping away from Guan Yu Temple.


    That person wore a long, cyan robe. His long beardflewbackward in the wind. His sharp eyes coldly swept through thend.


    I knew Guan Yuncheng would never stop. He was waitingforthe next dishonest and disloyal person to show up!

 Chapter 575: The King of Food

    Chapter 575: The King of Food


    Itwasgetting colder and colder these days. The temperature in Wuhan was now minus three. The thermometer I had just bought had exploded. I spent my daysdrinkinghot tea andreading thenews in my antique shop. I declined any new business.


    On that day, I had prepared a teapot andsommb stew. Li Mazi came in, wearing a long military coat.


    He rubbed his hands and grabbed a bowl and a pair of chopsticks.Then, hepetedagainst me during the meal. After a while, he was full. Hey brother, have you epted any cases these days?


    Iughed and said, Why did youe here?


    Li Mazi dropped his arms alongside his body. Ru Xuewentback to her mothers house.


    I took a sip of hot tea. Its no wonder youvesuddenly remembered me. I havent taken any cases these days. Its freezing outside, soI dont want toleavemycozy shop.


    Li Mazi wasnt pleasedand triedtoteachme a fond lesson. Because its cold, you need to stretch your body! Come here,e here. Im going to get you a job. Then, he told me the story.


    Two days ago, Li MazitookRu Xue to have spicy hotpot. After they had finished eating, they wanted to leave. That was when the family seatedat the table behind them started to mor. Theydemandedto see the manager. They said that their hotpot was poisoned and thatacustomerwas vomiting!


    Li Mazi turned and saw a thin man holding a trash bin. He waspuking crazily. The waiter standing next to that table blushed and repeatedly apologized,saying that he had already called the manager.


    Li Mazi didnt hurry to leave since there could be something fun to watch. He sat with Ru Xueand watchedhow the story would develop.


    A few minutester, the manager came. Thenky man was still vomiting. The manager apologized and proposed to let the family have the meal free of charge. The family wasnt pleased. They demandedpensation for the poor mans medical expenses.


    Although the manager wasnt pleased, seeing that the manwasstill vomiting, hegave thema few thousandrenminbifor him to have a colon cleansing.


    As all thecustomersin the hotpot restaurant were watching them, the family felt embarrassed. They helped thenky man get up as they wanted to leave. Unfortunately, thenky man wiped his mouth and continued to wolf downfood. His family kept pulling him, but he didnt move. A momentter, he had swallowed all the leftovers on the table.


    When his table was cleared, the man held his round tummyand lookedaround for more food. When he walked past Li Mazis table, theman suddenly movedand grabbed the tripe on the table,then shoved itinto his mouth.


    Li Mazi was stunnedas the tripewasntcooked yet


    His family knew that thingswerewrong. They tried to pull the man away, but the man clutched the table tightly. He didntstop and usedone hand to grab more food.


    At first nce, Li Mazi knew that this man had encountered something foul. He helped the family pull the man out of the hotpot restaurant. Moreover, he even gave the mans son his contact information and let himknow thathe could call him for help.


    After telling me the story, Li Mazi patted his thigh. I just gota call from theyoung man. He told me that his father had eaten everything in the fridge, including fifty eggs, five pounds of cabbage, and twenty pounds of raw pork. They had to call the ambnce. I guess hes having a colon cleansing in the hospital now.


    As ofte, Ihadbeen enjoying my leisure time, but the story Li Mazi had just told me was interesting. I wanted to go and have a look.


    The hospital wasnt far from here. It wasonly a ten-minute drive. When we got out of the car, a young man came to greet us.


    Brother, this is his son, Lin Xia.


    Lin Xia was around twenty years old. He wore ck-rimmed ssesandwas the sort of outstanding youth with smooth, fair skin.


    Lin Xia came togreet Li Mazi.Master, my fathers getting worse


    Li Mazi interrupted himand pointedat me. This is the master. We need to see your father so we can know about the situation first.


    Lin Xia greeted me, then took us to his fathers patient ward. Lin Xias father, Lin Qiusheng, was having a drip on his bed. He greeted us with a smile.


    At first nce, Lin Qiusheng was the middle-aged version of Lin Xia. He was thin and slender, buthad an elegant look. It was hard to imagine the scene in the restaurantwherehehadgrabbed all the foods within reach and wolfed everythingdown.It seemed Li Mazis intuition was right. He was under the influence of something bad.


    SinceLin Qiushenglooked sane,I started to talk to him. Mr. Lin, when did thisproblemstart? Did youencounteranything special before that?


    It starteda fewdays ago. Ive suddenly betheking ofstomachs. Every time I eat, Ican''tstop. My family had to hit me unconscious tobringme to the hospital and clean my digestive system.


    I frowned and thought for a moment. Before I could say something, the door was pushed open. A woman wearing leather shoes and a business suitwalkedin. Mr. Lin, can you do the live broadcast tonight?


    Lin Qiusheng noddedwith a smile.


    Ille to pick you up at 6 oclock, said thewoman. Then, sheleft.


    What live broadcast are you going to do? I askedout of curiosity.


    Im a gourmet. I host a program on TV that broadcasts every Friday. We rmend good and healthy foods.


    Lin Xia chimed in, Dad, how can you host your show when you are sick?


    Li Mazi and I also thought that he shouldnt host his show in thiscondition. There would be tons of good foods in his show. If his sickness surfaced while broadcasting, it would give hima hard time


    Lin Qiusheng sighed. I know mystateisntgood enough todo the show, but Ivesignedacontract. We have just broadcasted the show once. If I stop now, Iwont be able tobear this responsibility.


    Hehad a point, soI didnt talk him out of it anymore. I turned to Li Mazi and asked him to buy a pair of red chopsticks.Ifsomething bad happened, Lin Qiusheng could use the chopsticks to grab his middle finger.


    It seemed Lin Qiusheng was possessed byastarving ghost. Using the red chopsticks to grab Lin Qiushengs middle finger could force the ghost to show up or expel it temporarily. The cuisine show wasnt long. As long as we couldget over with ittonight, I would have a solution to this.


    After talking with us for a while, Lin Qiusheng looked tired. I didnt have more questions to ask him, so I left with Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi drove with a toothpick between his lips. Im sureastarving ghostispestering Lin Qiusheng. He eats like he hasnt eaten a fishina few hundred years.


    I shook my head. It doesnt have to.If a starvingghost possessedhim, it would have eaten to its hearts contentandthenleft. Lin Qiushengs case is rare. He eats a lot every day.


    Ghosts couldnt possesspeopleas theypleased. For example,astarving ghostwouldn''thave a profound cultivation base. Ifitpossessedsomeone casually,itwould be burned by their hosts Yang mes. Thatwaswhy starving ghosts rarely possessed peoples bodies.


    While I was exining this to Li Mazi, he suddenly mmedthe brakes. My head hit the front seat. Iangrilyyelled,Damn you, if you want to die, dont take me with you! Why did you suddenly step on the brakes without any warning?


    He didnt answer me. I rubbed my foreheadandpuzzledlyliftedmy head to look at him. Instantly, I sweated in fear.


    The drivers seat was empty. Li Mazi was nowhere to be seen.


    Subconsciously, I looked through the window; it was dark outside. The structures alongside the street werenowhere to be seen. My heart sank to the bottom. I guessed I was underamagic illusion.


    I immediately bit the tip of my tongue.The illusion slowly drew away from me. I turned and saw Li Mazisittingin front of the wheel. He looked at me through the rearview mirror. His face was fearful. LittleBrother Zhang,Ididnt see you for a short moment


    I was frightened. Both of us were hit by the magic illusion!


    I knew itwas an illusion,so I had bitten the tip of my tongue to use the blood to break it. Li Mazi looked like he didnt know about that. Hey, how did you get out of the illusion?


    Li Mazi chuckledandproudlyraisedhis left wrist. A red rope was tied around it.This year is my Chinese Zodiac. Ru Xuewentto the Bodhisattva Temple and brought me a red rope. Justnow, I saw it glow. I thought I wasseeing things.


    After listening to him, I had to admire Li Mazis fortune. However, to me, the possibility of having a starving ghost case was very small now. I had just met up with Lin Qiusheng;I hadnt done anything and that foul thing had alreadye to give me a little warning.If Li Mazi had woken up a littleter, we would have been in an ident!


    Hurry. We need to get back to the hospital. I anxiously urged Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi looked at me skeptically. I quickly exined, From what we have just experienced, that thing wants our lives.So, itwontleave Lin Xia alone. Lin Xia invited us! If we linger here, Lin Xia will die!


    Li Mazi immediatelymadeaU-turn and drovefaster. Before the car came to a full stop, I quickly got out and rushed into the hospital. When I was about to push the door of the patient room open, I heard people screaming from the inside.


    Lin Qiusheng sat on the bed. He shouted,Son, its nothing you can control. Do not let anybody know that Ihavethat thing. Otherwise, my whole life will be destroyed!


    Lin Xia was tearfully sobbing. Dad, youvee to this because of that thing! Can you not do that food show?


    You know nothing. The cuisine show is the show Ive spent my whole lifedeveloping. I like ita lot. How could I not do it? Lin Qiushengs voice trembled with anger.


    Eventually, Lin Xia cried, You like it?Its because of money, isnt it?! We can live a little poorer. We should treasure our lives, not money!


    Thereseemed tobe something strange here. Before I could press my ear to the door to eavesdrop on them further, Li Mazi scurried toward me. Hey, why didnt you go in?


    I was exposed, soI helplesslypushed the door and walked in.


    As soon as I entered the room, I pretended to be weary. I even opened my mouth to grasp for my breath. This time, youve provoked something very dangerous! It hase to me. My heads stiching.


    Li Mazi was smart enough. He cooperated with me. Right, LittleBrother Zhangs afraid that it wouldehere, so we had to rush back.We shouldnt leave tonight. We have to follow you to prevent the ghost from trying to possess you again!


    Lin Qiusheng smiled. Of course, you are more than wee if you decide to stay with me. Anyway, I have a show to do tonight. I need to rest now.


    Li Mazi grinned. Understood. Understood.


    A moment after Lin Qiusheniddown, the room was quiet. Since I had pretended tobehurt, I couldnt talk much. Li Mazi tried to pry Lin Xia. However, Lin Xia looked as though he had a big burden on his mind.


    At around 6:00 PM, the woman wearing leather shoes and a suit arrived. She was on time, indeed. She didnt say anything when Lin Qiusheng said that we would go with him.She asked her crew to send a van to pick us up.


    While waiting for the car, we talked a little bit. I then learned that she was Xiao Zhao, Lin Qiushengs assistant in thepany. Xiao Zhao looked cool and aloof.She chatted with us. Although thediscussionwasnt very enthusiastic, it was fun.


    Li Mazi liked this type of cool and aloofbusinesswoman. He kept talking with her the entire way to the broadcast stage.


    When Lin Qiusheng arrived, he was immediately pressed into a chair to have his makeup done.


    Usually, he can shoot the show immediately. But these days, his skin doesnt glow, so he needs to wear some makeup! Xiao Zhao told me.


    I nodded understandingly. He was a celebrity,andhe had to show his best face to the public, right?

 Chapter 576: The Gourmet that Lost His Sense of Taste

    Chapter 576: The Gourmet that Lost His Sense of Taste


    Compared towomen, it wasnt thatplicated when men needed to put on makeup. Lin Qiusheng finished his makeup after around ten minutes. Meanwhile, Xiao Zhao and the other assistants had already prepared the ingredients on the stage.


    Lin Qiusheng walkedonthe stage and talked to his beautiful co-host. Facing the camera, he smiled tenderly.


    I found a ce nearest to Lin Qiusheng as I was afraid that something would happen during the broadcast.The cameradidntcapture me in this corner.


    As the cooking show started, Lin Qiusheng began to introduce each of the ingredients, including their nutritious values and how to cook them. From time to time, he joked with his co-hostand gavemore interesting touches to the show.


    After the introduction of the ingredients came the part I was worried about the most  the review of dishes! There were three dishes that the program crew had prepared. To increase theeffectivenessof the show, they had sent three staff who didnt have outstanding appearances to bring out the dishes. Theyced them in front of Lin Qiushengand saidthat they were cooked by the audience.


    Lin Qiusheng took a bite of every dish and gave somements. This section was finally over.


    After that, Lin Qiusheng wanted to cook a dish rightonthe stage. Since he had to process his ingredients, the crew members moved the previous three dishes away and made more room for him. Seeing the staff carrying thefoodout of the screen, I thought I could heave a sigh of relief.


    Butwhen the staff was taking hisst step out of the screen, Lin Qiusheng, who looked normal in the previous second, suddenly dashed forward and snatched a dish out of the staffs hand. He grabbed the food and shoved that handful ofitinto his mouth.I immediatelywentto pull him. My left hand wasnt within the camera frame, so I held the red chopsticks and grabbed his middle finger.


    Unexpectedly, this trick didnt work. Lin Qiusheng struggled harder and harder. He had almost swallowed all the food in his hand. I immediately threw the chopsticks aside,took out a painting of Taotie,and stuckit on him!


    Taotie was the name of ancient mythological creatures famous for their greedy and gluttonous character. They were big foodiesas they were theancestorsofallfoodies. Legend said that only Taoties head remainedbecause it had eaten its own body!Thatwas enough to see how gluttonous it was.


    I had borrowed this painting of Taotie from Chuyi a long time ago. I thought that ifthe spiritwas something that liked to eat a lot, it would be afraid of Taotie orshow respect to Taotie at the veryleast!


    Indeed, it worked. As soon as I had stuck the Taotie painting on him, Lin Qiusheng shook as if he was a sieve. After a few seconds, he returned to his senses. He immediately knew what had just happened. His facegrimaced.


    I wanted tofort him, but I caught a nceatXiao Zhaos signal. I followed her instruction and pulled Lin Qiusheng away from the camerasframe.


    As soon as we got off the stage, theMC of the show immediately took the stage and madeajoke about Lin Qiushengs awkward situation, driving the audience tothinkthat it was the bridge section the show had nned. One of the dishes he had tasted was deliberately prepared with spices they shouldnt have used for the dish. The show producer wanted to see if Lin Qiusheng could recognize it.


    Previously, they said that the food was cooked by the audience and now they said that it was nned by the program crew. Although the loophole was obvious here, they could cover Lin Qiushengs awkward situation. It wasnt too difficult for him to get back to the stageter.


    For thetter part of the show, Lin Qiusheng introduced nutritious foods that could be great supplements during thewintertime. The showwas able tofinallyendsmoothly.Since he hadthe painting of Taotie with him, he could continue and finish his show without any new problems. After the show was done, I wanted to go to Lin Qiushengs house to see if there were any clues.


    Im tired. Can you visit me another day? suggested Lin Qiusheng.


    I remembered the conversation between him and Lin Xia in the hospital. I knew he was afraid that I could find something in his house. I wanted to go and see, but if he said so, Ihad to give up on that thought. All right, if you encounter something, call me immediately.


    After Lin Qiusheng left, I remembered that my car was still at the hospital. When I was about to leave with Li Mazi, Xiao Zhao honkedat usto go with her.


    After getting into the car, Li Mazi teased her. Whydidn''t youleave with your boss? You dont want toseeyour sry reduced, do you?


    Xiao Zhao had a faint smile. How could it be? My boss asked me to see you off.


    I chuckled. Liu Qiusheng was interesting, quite the attentive type.However,he stilldidnt want to tell me the truth.


    I asked Xiao Zhao to take us to the hospital.AfterXiao Zhao left, we immediately drove after her. Li Mazi satin the passenger seat and asked, Why do we have to follow Xiao Zhao?


    Do you still need to ask? Of course, we want to know what Lin Qiusheng has messed with! I rolled my eyes at him.


    I then told him what I had eavesdropped on this afternoon in Lin Qiushengs patient room. Li Mazis eyes opened wide. Its no wonder Ifeltthat Lin Xia lookedstrange. He knew everything right from the start! He knew his fatherhad aproblem!


    After around half an hour, Xiao Zhao drove into a high-end residential area. Intheseluxurious neighborhoods, non-registered cars werent allowed to enter. I stopped at the entrance and got out with a pack of good cigarettes. Iwantedto makefriendswith the security guard.


    The security guard was a middle-aged man around forty years old. He looked nice, but he was toughto entice. I had offered him several packs of cigarettes, but I got nothing from him. Feelinghelpless, I had to drive away.


    Li Mazi was somewhat mad. His foul mouthmovedfast. I wasan idiot to get involved inthis case. Theres nothing good aboutthis, onlya lot of troubles!


    I thought it wasnt that bad. Although Lin Qiusheng hadnt told me the truth,he waswilling to let me help him. I kept thinking about it for quite a long time, but I hadnt figured out how to make him tell me everything.


    Since I had a lot of thingson my mind, when I turned my car into the alley of my antique shop, I had almost run someone over. I craned my neck to checkand sawthat it was Lin Xia. The young manlookedpale as he hadbeenout in the cold. It seemed he had been here right after the cuisine show ended. When he saw me, he looked both touched and excited. Master Zhang


    I waved my hand and motioned that he shouldgoinsidethe shop to talk. It was freezing outside. I didnt want to beahuman ice cube by standing herewithhim.


    Li Mazi was mad at Lin Xia, so he went directly into the shop after getting out of the car. He poured himself a cup of hot teaand quickly gulped it down. After IbroughtLin Xia to the shop, Li Mazi mmed the cup on the table and dashed upstairs, leaving Lin Xiao with an embarrassed face.


    I poured Lin Xia a cup of hottea anforted him. Li Mazi is a straightforward man. You dont need tooverthink it.


    No,dont worry. Lin Xia shook his head. He held the cup of teaand lookedreluctant. After a long moment, he made up his mindand started to talk. Master Zhang, I guessed you heard our quarrel this afternoon.


    I almost spat out the sip of tea I had just drunk. It turned out they had seen right throughmy performance this afternoon. Even Lin Xia, an immature young man, got it.It would bestrangeifLin Qiusheng didnt get it.


    Feeling embarrassed, I nodded. Yeah, I overheard you guys. If you knowanything, you better tell me. Thats how I can help your father.


    Lin Xia sighed. Slowly, he started to talk.I dont know how it started. All I know is that one week ago, my father mysteriously told me that he bought something very nice. After that, he has turned into this


    When he said that, I gotan ideain my head, more or less. Thenice thinghe mentioned could be an otherworldly item. It seemed Lin Qiusheng also knew that it wasnt somethingnormal. But still, he wanted to use that item to achieve his purpose!


    As I had kept silent for quite a long time, Lin Xiagotanxious. Willsomething bad happen to my father?


    I nodded. If he continues this way, bad thingswillhappen soon. Let aloneotherplications, your fathers bodywont be able toendure his wolfing habit of eating.


    Do you know how to help my father? Lin Xias eyes reddened.


    I patted his shoulder tofort him. Dont worry. If you are too worried, you willmakemistakes. Anyway, I need to know whatthis thingis and gather more details about itto know how to deal with it.


    Lin Xia implored me. You must help my father!


    Then, he ced the cup down onto the table and rushed outside. I was left with a puzzled face.


    Li Mazicame down. He sat opposite me then said despicably, That young man must have gone to see his lover. He ran even faster than a rabbit.


    I rolled my eyes and scoffed.Dont think that everybody is like you. I think Lin Xias a good man.


    Li Maziughed and asked, Now, what is your n?


    I pretended to be surprised. Oh, I thought you wanted to ditch this case.


    Li Mazi madeafake cough and cleared his throat. How could I do that?I wasjust angry when Ifacedsome injustice


    Lin Xias appearance tonight made me somewhat worried. I always felt that something would happen. Afterchatting withLi Mazi, I went upstairs to prepare some magic tools I would possibly use.After preparing everything well, I eased my mind and went to bed.


    I thought that Iwould be able tohave a nice sleep that night. However, at the break of dawn, I was awoken by Li Mazis screaming downstairs. I thought something big had happened. Afterputting on more warm clothes, I hurried to go downstairs, but then, I saw that Ru Xue was chasing after Li Mazi around my house.


    I leaned against the handrail of the staircase and watched the fun for a while. Eventually, I knew what had happened. Rue Xue hade homest night from her mothers house. Sheknew LiMazi wasatmy ce since he wasnt home. Early this morning, she came to my shop to find himandfound him drooling atabeauty wearing a bikini in the magazine.


    Li Mazi threw me a send-help-look. I waved at himand signaledthat he should pray for his welfare. Then, I went out to have breakfast. I rarely went out to have breakfastbut today, judging from the fact that it would take a lot of timeforRu Xueto calmdown, I quicklymade up my mind to go out to have some peace and fresh air.


    I slowly moved along the antique street to find a restaurant and order something. When I had finished half of my meal, I saw someone anxiously rushing past the restaurant. That personlooked like Lin Xia. It was weird that he hade here so early in the morning.Feeling worried, I cedthe money for the breakfast on the table and left the restaurant. I dashedafter him.


    However, when I raninhis direction, I didnt see him. This street was straightandtherewasone turn two hundred meters ahead of me. It was just a short moment, so he couldnt have justdisappearedthat fast!


    Did he visita nearbyshop?With that thought, I walked along the street and checked each shop. Still, when I reached the turn, I hadnt found him yet. I knew it was strange, so I decided to call Lin Xia. The phone rang twicebeforethe linewentthrough.


    Good morning Master, have you figured outasolution? greeted Lin Xia.


    I found an excuse and hung up the call. I guessed my eyes were just blurred for a moment. After this interruption, Iwas inno mood to eat my breakfast outside. I bought some fried dumplings and returned to my antique shop.


    Li Mazi and Ru Xue were sitting on the sofa, showing their affection to each other. I gave Li Maziapack of dried dumplings. Then, I started to search for Lin Qiushengs informationonmy phone in hopes that I could find the reason why Lin Qiusheng had to depend onanotherworldly item.


    After two hoursofstaring atmy phonescreen,I finally found a clue amongstabunch of fake and real information about him.


    Three months ago, there was a blog post about Lin Qiusheng on Weibo, which gradually became a hot topic. The blogwaswritten nicelyand hadpictures. It was abouta cooking show that had invited Lin Qiusheng as a special guest. To enliven the show, the program crew had prepared a bowl of braised pork rib with three spoons of sugar addedas aprank to Lin Qiusheng.


    Unexpectedly, Lin Qiusheng didnt change his face when he ate twobitesof the braised pork. Moreover, hegave anexcellent assessmentofthe dish.People assumed that Lin Qiushengs sense of taste hadaproblem.


    Anyway, this blog postdid not affectLin Qiushengs career that much because Lin Qiushengspany timely posted an exnation that it was justpart ofthe show.


    However,Lin Qiusheng had another strange performance in a few shows afterward. The news that he had lost his sense of taste spread out fast. The other cuisine shows he hadattendedwere willing to pay thpensation and break the contract withhim. Lin Qiushengs career had plunged to the bottom


    Until one week ago, he had signed a new TV program with a smallpany. After the first episode, his reputation was slightly recovered.


    Lin Xia had said that Lin Qiusheng had gotten the otherworldly item one week ago. The times matched. It seemed his report was true. Now, I knew why Lin Qiusheng didnt want to tell me his real situation. A gourmet withoutasense of tastewaslike a deaf musician. Not many people could ept this shocking news.


    I decided to call Lin Qiusheng. I thought it was the right time to talk to him. Before I could make a call, my phone rang.It was a call from Lin Qiusheng.


    Oh well, as soon as I mention Cao Cao, Cao Caoes!


    I picked up the call. Before I could speak.Lin Qiushengs panicked voice came from the other end of the line. Master, my son is missing!

 Chapter 577: The Phalanx Otherworldly Item

    Chapter 577: The Phnx Otherworldly Item


    As soon as I heard that Lin Xia had gone missing, I remembered the person I had seen this morning. I had a strange and unlucky premonition. Whendid he gomissing?


    Lin Qiusheng stuttered. I cant exin through the phone.Could yoeto my house to talk?


    To not let him figure out that I had followed Xiao Zhao yesterday, I even asked him the address. When the call ended, Igrabbedmybag fullof magic tools I had prepared and departed.


    Hey, wait, Im going with you! Li Mazi called.


    No need. Im going there to check the situation. You should stay with Ru Xue and watch my shop!


    When I arrived at the neighborhood entrance, I saw Xiao Zhao waiting for me.She was excited to see me and walked forwardto wee me. She took me to an apartment building and led me to the fourteenth floor.


    It was just one night,and I found that Lin Qiushengwas lookingevenworsethan yesterday. He looked like asick personin thest phase of cancer.


    When he saw me, he looked dispirited. I shouldnt have hidden things from you.


    I gave him a faint smile and asked,About your loss oftaste?


    He was surprisedand shotme a nce. How did you know that?


    Before Icould answer, he continuedin a self-mocking tone,Of course, it would be strange that youdidntknow. There are so many stories on theInte. You can just use Baidu to search, and youllget thousands of posts


    I didnt continue this topicand askeddirectly, Can you tell me about Lin Xia?


    Lin Qiusheng sighed. Im sure my sons gone missing because of that thing!


    Then, Lin Qiusheng told me the truth. A week ago, he had bought an air-dried pinky phnx. After he got the phnx, he recognized that his sense of tastehadrecovered. Moreover, his tasting ability was improvedbya notch. The only problem was that he couldnt control his eating desire. He always wanted to eat.


    For his career, he didnt want to tell me about this otherworldly item. Unfortunately, Lin Xia stole the phnx and disappeared. As he was worried that Lin Xia would be affected, and that he would eat non-stop, he wanted me to find him as soon as possible.


    This morning,I was able to callLin Xia sessfully. Mr. Lin, have you tried to call Lin Xia?


    Lin Qiusheng looked embarrassed. My son called me. He asked me to cooperate with you to solve this. Otherwise, he said he would leave the house and not ept me as his father.


    I cheered up after listening to him.It was no wonder Lin Qiusheng suddenlychanged. It turned out his son had forced him.


    I called Lin Xia. Lin Xia, your father told me the truth. You shoulehome now.


    Master, help me! Im in the small park of the apartment building Lin Xia coughedas he triedto talk to me.


    I sprang up and rushed out. Lin Qiusheng and Xiao Zhao followed behind me. When I got downstairs, I recognized that I didnt know where the park in this neighborhood was. I had to turn and ask Lin Qiusheng.


    He immediately ledthe way. A few minutester, we found Lin Xia ata bench in the park.His tummy looked so round it could burst in the next second.


    The bench was covered with bags of choctes, chips, cokes, instant noodles,and more. Empty wrappers and bags of junk foodlittered under the bench. It was hard to imagine how hewas able to stuffall of those things into his stomach.


    When he saw us, he burst out crying for help while continuing to shove chips into his mouth.


    I stormed toward him and hit his forehead with the back of my hand. He lost consciousness immediately. The forehead was where a persons HeavenlyTemplewas located,whichrepresented their fate and fortune. Smacking his forehead could helptotemporarily block the evil energy. However, this method couldnt be used often because the back of the hand could smack the fortune out of someone.Apersons luck was limited. If we did thattoooften, the fortune of that person would gradually reduce.


    Lin Qiusheng lifted Lin Xia and ran to the hospital. Looking at his sons round stomach, the mans eyes turned red.


    I hadnt expected that Lin Xia would use this method to force Lin Qiusheng to give up. More or less, I respected the young man, but I didnt feel eased seeing his ballooned belly. If I had been more carefulwhile lookingfor him this morning, he wouldnt have been in this horrible situation.


    He was taken to the hospital and had his colon cleansed. Afterward, Lin Xia woke up. His face looked ashen. Lying feebly on the bed, he didnt forget to implore me to save his father.


    I now remembered that Lin Qiusheng had said that Lin Xia had taken the phnx. Lin Xia, give me the phnx.


    The young man checked his pocket, but the piece of bone was gone.


    I was a little angryand said, Why didnt you give it to me yesterday when youhadit? See what youve done?


    Lin Xia blushed. I wanted to bring it to you. Idontknow why, butI couldnt help it. I had a strong urge to rushtoaconveniencestore and buy a big bunch of snacks. I sat in the parkand atethe whole night


    I couldnt me Lin Xia. That damn phnx had controlled him. Iforted him as hehadstarted to me himself. You need to rest. Then, I left his patient room.


    However, as soon as I left the room, I felt that something was wrong. The corridor outside felt much warmer than his patient room.


    Iwentinto the room again. Indeed, thepatientsroom was dark and cold. I hadnt recognized itearliersince the hospital always had thicker Yin energy than other ces, but it seemed that thing was still in the room.


    Oh, Master Zhang, why didyoue back? Lin Xia was surprised.


    I signaled at him not to talk. I took out mypass and started to search. Thepass hand shook hard for a while then stopped. I lifted my head to follow the hands direction. It was in Lin Xias bed.


    Get off the bed, I mouthed. As soon as he stepped away from the bed, Ished the Sirius Whip on the bed. A horrible shrill arose. The nket suddenly swelled up and a piece of phnx flew out with a sharp hiss. It wanted to escape.


    I immediately followed it. The phnxonly chosedark and cold ces. Its speed was so fast, and as it was daylight, I couldnt inviteaspirit around to carry me.Feeling helpless, I had to depend on my legs.


    After a while, the bone took a turn. As soon as I followed its turn, I saw it flying downstairs.I nowrecognized an issue.Although the bone was flying fast, it had never ditched me behind. It seemed the bone was deliberately waiting for me.


    I was frightened.Has thisthingalready set up a trap for me?


    However, as I hade this far and it was hard to force the thing to show up, I wouldnt let it run away. As soon as this thought popped up in my head, I found that the Yin energy around me was much heavier. I halted and found that I had inadvertently reached the morgue of the hospital!


    The morgue had never been under the sunlight. It was the ce wherethe dead temporarily stayed.This ce had the thickest Yin energyin the entire hospital.When peoplegoto the morgue, they should bring something thathasstrong Yang energy. When theygohome, they should brush the dust before entering the house, and they should take a shower with hot water. Otherwise, they would likely carry foul things with them and to their houses.


    Suddenly, the phnx shook to the left then to the right, flyingover my head. As soon as I turned around to chase after it, all the lights in the morgue switched off.


    Without the light, the Yin energy in the morgue grew thicker. The cold windwentthrough my clothes and seeped into my pores. I shuddered. I held the Sirius Whip tightly in my hand.Atthis moment, pairs of green-glowing eyes gazed at me from the dark corners.


    God damn it! Imessed up this time!


    My heart sank to the bottom. I put the Sirius Whip away and took out the Yin and Yang Umbre.


    Ghosts approached me as they creptthrough darkness. I stabbed the Yin and Yang Umbre at the ghosts that came near me. As soon as the Yin and Yang Umbre touched them, they screamed and turned into ashes.


    It wasnt hard to deal with these ghosts. However, there were so many of them. Ifthings continued like this, my strength would be drained soon, and those ghosts would take the chance to swallow me. Thus, I needed to attack fast and win fast!


    I took a deep breath and spun the Yin and Yang Umbre faster. Instantly, a circle of ghosts nearest to me turned into ashes. I took this short chance to take out a Yang Concealing Talisman from my bag. Those ghosts used human Yang energy to targetpeople.IfI covered my Yang energy, theywouldnt be able tosense me. Once their target was gone, they couldnt attack anymore. With empty eyes, they started to search around the morgue.


    I exhaled. I cautiously moved and avoided the ghosts that constantly drifted by me. I headedto the door of the morgue. Along the way, I had touched some ghosts, but the Yin and Yang Umbre had helped me escape the danger. Eventually, I got out of the morgue. Wiping the sweat on my forehead, my fluttering heart finally rxed.Due tothis dy, the pinky bone had fled. I closed my Yin and Yang Umbre and returned to Lin Xias room.


    How is it going? Lin Xia looked happy when he sawthat I had returned.


    That phnx isnt simple to dealwith. However, Isaw through its trick. I shook my head.


    Lin Qiusheng entered the room. When he saw me, he heaved a sigh of relief. I found it weird.


    My fatherwent outto look for you as he was afraid that you were in trouble, Lin Xia exined.


    I sat on a chairand rested. Mr. Lin, how did you get such a menacing otherworldly item?


    Without someone in this business, normal people would find it hard to ess an otherworldly item.

 Chapter 578: Spirit Tracking Formation

    Chapter 578: Spirit Tracking Formation


    Lin Qiusheng looked scared. Seeing his face, I knew the origin of this pinky phnx wasnt simple.After pondering for a while, he finally made up his mind andsaid, I bought that pinky phnxatan underground auction.


    Anunderground auction was the trade market for various items. However, most of them were illegal, and some were stolen goods. There were many grave items, too. One could even find national treasures that were not allowed to be sold byw.


    It wasnt strange that Lin Qiusheng could find a pinky phnx in such a ce. The problem was: How did he know that the phnx could help him?


    Lin Qiusheng wore a wry smile. After my sense of tastewentbad, I went to many famous traditional Chinese medicine practitioners,but it was no use.That was untilsomeone sent me an anonymous message saying that the pinky phnx could help me. I wasveryworried at that time, so I went to the underground auction to buy the item.It seemedthat the anonymousperson hade at the time I needed it the most!


    I sneered. Im sure someone wanted to harm you. Although the otherworldly item can help you taste the food for a while, in the end, youll receive the bacsh.


    Lin Qiushenglookedembarrassed. Do you know how to subdue that pinky phnx?


    I shook my head. For now, the only thing we can do is to go to that underground auction ce to see who posted that item. If someone wants to harm you, that person must have somertionshipwith the pinky phnx.


    Lin Qiusheng felt awkward. The underground auction wont disclose their customers information. Im afraid we cant ess that information.


    I shrugged. Thatsall I can think of for now. If you dont want to go, will you stay in your house and wait for your death?


    Lin Qiusheng was speechless. Eventually, he gave me a reluctant nod.Of course, this sort of underground auction housewasntopen during the day. We had to wait until nightfall. Seizing the time before the night came, I went out to prepare some stuff,then wenthome to rest.


    In the evening, Lin Qiusheng asked Xiao Zhao to stay and take care of Lin Xia. He picked me up and drove me to the underground auction ce. When wewerenear, Irealizedthat the ce was pretty close to the antique street!


    Since Lin Qiusheng had been here before, we were allowed to enter easily. After taking the seat number from the doorman, we found that the auction had already begun.


    There were many antiques in this auction session. However, I just needed to take a nce to know that not even two of them were real. Anyway, they were enough to fool the amateur collectors.


    I felt bored, so I leaned against the backrest to rest. All of a sudden, I felt someone watching me from behind. When I turned around to see, I found no one.


    I quietlyturned back and continued my rest, trying to ignore the drilling look at my back. It seemed that the person thought that I was sleeping, so they werent afraid anymore. Their gazebecame unrestrained. I took the chance and turned around all of a sudden. I caught a middle-aged man looking at me hostilely. As he was busted, he didnt look at me anymore.He hurriedlyleft the venue.


    I hadcontemted it fora while, but I couldnt rememberhow Iwas rted to him. I decided to ignore him. As the auction session was about to end, Lin Qiusheng pickedarandom item. After the auction finished, we went to the back of the stage to pay.


    After paying, Lin Qiushengasked, Last time I bought a pinky phnx here. I wonder if I can buy the same thing again?


    The staff immediately checked his tablet and gave us a negative answer.


    Lin Qiusheng pulled a regretful face. Oh, thats too bad.I identally broke thepinky phnx I gotst time. Icamehere today to try my luck. I didnt expect that


    The staff person also expressed his regret.


    Hey, friend, can you give me the contact of the previous owner of that pinky phnx? I can contact him to see if my luck is stillhere. While talking, he discreetly shoved some billsintothe mans hand.


    The man wanted to refuse him,but as soon as he touched the red bills, he smiled. If I disclose the confidential information, I will be fired.


    I understand. Totally understand. Lin Qiusheng smilingly and secretly handed him a stack of money.


    The mans smile grew broader. He quickly jotted down a name and an address on a piece of paper and put it into Lin Qiushengs pocket.


    Liu Qiushengs purpose was achieved.Weleft the underground auction ce. I was stunned to see the series of exchanges. Lin Qiusheng handed me the address. This isthe person you want to see!


    I couldnt help but give him a thumbs-up.You are an efficient person!


    Lin Qiusheng smiled. I know money can even control the ghosts.


    As soon as we got the contact information, Lin Qiusheng became restless. Could you trick him toe out?


    I shook my head. If this person wants to harm you, perhaps hes still watching us discreetly! He may have seen me before. To not alert him, we must find someone who he has never seen before.


    Lin Qiusheng waved his hand. Master Zhang, I am counting on you. My people shouldbe knownalready.


    I shook my head reluctantly.Li Maziisnta good option, either. Who elsecanIcounton?


    Thats right, Ru Xue!


    I immediately returned to the antique shop. Li Mazi and Ru Xue were nesting on the sofa, watching TV. When they saw me, they pointed at the steaming food on the table. Oh, youre right on time. Come, eat something.


    Im notin a hurry. I have something I need Ru Xue to help me with.


    Li Mazimadea face when I said that I needed Ru Xues help. Oh,Im not sure if I can allow this.


    I directly ignored him. I went to tell Ru Xue the situation.SinceI just needed her to make a phone call,sheagreed.


    However, I wasnt sure whichexcuse to use to trick him to see us.


    Ru Xue pouted her lips.Its easy.


    Then, she made the call. Hello, is this Mr. Wang?As soon as the line was through, Ru Xue started to drawl. Her voice was soft and spoiled.


    Li Mazi was mad. Butbefore he could yell, Icoveredhis mouth.


    Ru Xue shortlyconvinced the other person that she had a one-sided love for him for quite a long time. She wanted a date to see him.


    I dropped my jaw in shock.


    Ru Xue and the other party had chatted for a while. In the end, the man agreed to have a date tomorrow night at a coffee shop.


    As soon as she hung up the call, Li Mazi pulled her aside to give her a lesson. However, after a few minutes, the roles were switched. Ru Xue pinched Li Mazis earand nagged athim for his narrow-minded self.


    After thearrangements were made,I drove to the hospital. Lin Qiusheng was touchedwhenhelearned that I hade todo the night watch.


    I then showed him Ru Xues picture. Wevegot a date withthat guy. Tomorrow, we will meet up in a coffee shop near the hospital. You have to be there one hour in advance and see who Ru Xue will meet.


    Afterdiscussing thedate tomorrow, I started to arrange something in thepatient room. At first, I stuck a painting of the Taotie on the headboard. Ihad drawnthis one myself. Although it wasnt as good as Chuyis, it would work, more or less.


    Then, I wrote a Spirit Tracking Formation on the door and the window using cinnabar ink. As soon as the pinky phnx came in orgotout of the room through one of these two ways, the Spirit Tracking Formation would be activated. Even if it escaped, I would be able to track it down.


    After preparing everything, I turned to take a lookat LinQiusheng.Hedidnt look well. I asked him to take a rest.


    He was a little embarrassed.


    Dont worry about me. I usually do the night watch. Im used to it. I smiled at him.


    He then pulled a chair with a backrest and rested. After a while, I heard him snoring steadily.


    I adhered a Yang Concealing Talisman onmyselfthenwentunderthe bed. My ears pricked up to listen to themotions outside. After quite a long time, I heard some noises from the door. The door slightly opened. I peeped from under the bed and saw a transparent figure floating into the room!


    I craned my neck a little bit to see what it wanted to do. The figure suspended between Lin Qiusheng and Lin Xia for quite a long time as if it was considering things. A momentter, it abruptly entered Lin Xia.


    I started togetup from under the bed. The ghost had already possessed Lin Xias body.


    Lin Xia got up, his eyes nk. Then, he lifted his nket, irritablytwistinghis neck. It wasas though he couldnt adapt to his body. He left the room shortly afterward.


    After Lin Xia left, I woke Lin Qiusheng up.


    Seeing that Lin Xia was missing again, Lin Qiushengstarted to panic.


    I said, Im going to chase after Lin Xia. You stay here and protect the formations Ivedrawn.


    What should I do? Lin Qiusheng asked.


    I gave him the cinnabar ink and the brush. When you see the formationdimout, use the brush to dab it thicker. Just follow the lines Ivedrawn. Remember, while doing that, you have to keep your mind ascalm as stillwater.


    Then, I left the room. The Spirit Tracking Formation showed that Lin Xia had gotten into a car and left the hospital. He wasfar away. I called a spirit to take me there.


    Lin Xias car made a lot of turns into the suburbs. I had followed him for quite a long time before he finally stopped at a countryside vi.


    Although it was a vi, it was an unfinished project. There were adozen visaround the neighborhood. However, without warning, the investors had withdrawn their investment when half of the vis were done. Itwas buzzingnews at that time.


    The personcontrollingthe otherworldly itemwouldnthavegood intentions, soI discreetlyput up a guard. Lin Xia looked around then entered the vi.


    I quietlyhid ina thick bush.Thece waspletely dark, so it was easy for me to hide.


    Soon, the lightonthe first floor of the viswitchedon. It shoneon Lin Xias figure.A man was standing in front ofhim. When I saw his face, I was a little shocked. He was the middle-aged man that had his eyes fixed on me during the auction.


    The man began to talk awkwardly.No one has followed you.Thats good. Ill reward you with a bowl of stew turtle!

 Chapter 579: Blood Splashing

    Chapter 579: Blood Sshing


    Themiddle-aged mansuddenlyraised abutcher knife. It seemedhe wanted to kill Lin Xia!


    As the situation was urgent, I couldnt think much. I directly sprinted into the vi andshed the Sirius Whip. My whip made the mandrophis knife. Then, I pulled Lin Xiaand ranaway.


    After a few steps, I felt a sharp paininmy left arm. I turned and saw Lin Xias dull face on my arm. He was biting me!


    Damn you!I couldnt helpbut curse. That middle-aged man had found meand had attempted to sh Lin Xia just to force me teout. And now, he was controlling Lin Xia to attack me!


    I gritted my teethand gatheredall of my strength to give Lin Xia a strong whip. A transparent figure whined and flew out ofhisbody. Then, itreturned to the side of the middle-aged man, who was chasing after me. I finally saw the face of the transparent figure. He was a fat man.


    Lin Xia was baffled. Whyam Ihere?


    I didnt have time to exin to him. Ibrusquelysaid, Theres a car parked outside.Drive it to my antique shop and ask Li Mazi to bring my stuff to me.


    Then, I gave him a few spirit talismans.


    Lin Xia was a smart person.Although hewas a little bewildered, he didnt ask anythingand quickly rushedaway.


    The middle-aged man held the pinky phnx in his hand. The spirit immediately chased after Lin Xia, butI wielded my Sirius Whip to stop it. The man saw that Lin Xia had already driven the car away, so he controlled his spirit to attack me instead.


    After severalshes, the Sirius Whip had temporarily used up its energy. I putitbackatmy waist. I took out a few talismans and smeared them on my wounded arm. Then, I attacked the spirit with the blood-stained spirit talismans. Although the blood on my arm wasnt essence blood, it contained Yang energy.


    When the middle-aged man saw my attack, he controlled the spirit to back off. However, his control wasnt smooth. After a few steps, the spiritwashit. I was able to smack a talisman onitsforehead.


    The spirit immediately screamed and shrank. The middle-aged man rushed forward to retrieve his Yin spirit and returned it to the phnx.


    I exhaled in relief. Now, there was only the middle-aged man I needed to deal with! I took out a sharp dagger from my bag. I staredat him. Whydoyou want to harm Lin Qiusheng?


    The middle-aged man sneered darkly. Thatsbusiness between me and Lin Qiusheng. You shouldnt put your nose in someone elses business.


    I spat and raised my bleeding arm. You made your spirit bite me. Yet,youretelling me not to put my nose in your business?


    The middle-aged mans face turned dark. He picked up thebutcherknifefromthe groundand aimedat me.


    My body twistedto the sideto dodge hisattack. At the same time, I moved behind him. The dagger in my hand that was aimed at his chestcutdown furiously.


    As I hadrepeatedly been in contactwith otherworldly items and seen many dead bodies, I understood the structureof the humanbody very well. I attacked him precisely and cruelly. The man roared, but his knife was still attacking me.


    I was weary from the previous fight, so I was half a beat slower. Thebutcherknife brushed my shoulder. Immediately, blood spurted. To prevent the man from attacking me again, I rolledto the side.


    When I turned around, I saw the middle-aged man clutchinghis chest and wieldinghis knife one more time. He wasdashing toward me. I clenched my jaw to focus. With the dagger in my hand, Iredat him.


    As the man was shortening the distance between us, I grabbed my dagger tighterand wasready to risk my life with him. Suddenly, the vrooming noiseof a carengine arose outside.


    The middle-aged man knew that my reinforcement hade. His face changed drastically. He rushed into a thick bush and disappeared into the night. His movement was so smooth.It seemedhe had borrowed thespirits power.


    Li Mazi and Lin Xia got out of the car and found me wounded and bleeding. Li Mazi simply checked my wound and took me to the hospital where the doctor disinfected my wound and wrapped it up. The cut on my shoulder looked terrible, but it wasnt deep.However,the spirit had bitten deep enough to my veins, which would take quite a long time to fully recover.


    Brother, you should rest well.Why dont you ask Senior Shuand Chuyi to take over this case? suggested Li Mazi.


    I dontthinkweneed to. Its just my arm that got hurt. I am not paralyzed.


    After the fight tonight, Ihadaplishedsomething. The spirit wasnt strong. As long as I could solve the man who controlled it, the case would be solvedaltogether. However,becauseI had stabbed that man,I wondered if he wouldmeet up with Ru Xue tomorrow.


    Li Mazi was puzzled. LittleBrother Zhang, did they hit you until you turned crazy? Youve seen him twice, right? You can tell Lin Qiusheng some specialfeaturesabouthim.


    I listened to him and found no reason to rejecthisidea


    Earlythe nextmorning, I told Lin Qiushengabout the appearance of the middle-aged man. Lin Qiusheng put on a grimace afterward. After a long time, he sighedand cursed, Icantbelieve that its him!


    Whats the matter? I pulled myself together as Ilearnedthat Lin Qiusheng knew that man.


    Hes Wang Jie. He was my roommate in university. We had a goodrtionship,but wedidnt keep in touch after graduation.Two years ago, I met him at our ss reunion. I got his contact afterward.


    Li Mazi pursed his lips. Why does he want to harm you?


    Lin Qiushengs face stiffened. After a while, he sighed again. Wang Jie and I are simr. We do cooking shows. However, he has no significant talents. His career isnt going well.SinceIve beendoing well with my career, he asked me to help him. I had never expected that he would turn hostile toward me.


    It turned out Lin Qiusheng introduced Wang Jie to hispany and made him his assistant. Lin Qiusheng was dedicated to teaching him about his various experiences with workingoncuisine shows. After one year, Wang Jie had finally hosted a show on his own. However, he wasnt a gifted person. His episodes failed one after another.


    Lin Qiusheng didnt know who had instigated Wang Jie on the thought that hewanted totake his gloryas agourmet, and that he had secretly worked with the television station to cancel Wang Jies show. Dissatisfied and angry,the manresigned. They had stopped contact with each other afterward. Lin Qiusheng had never thought that Wang Jie would harm his entire family.


    I thought it was absurd that Wang Jie wanted his benefactors life because of something trivial like that.


    However, Li Mazi understood the story better. There are many types of people in the world. Its okay, wewere bound tobump into this sort of person someday.


    Your sense of tastewent awayunknowingly? Have you seen a doctor? Iasked.


    Lin Qiusheng got my idea immediately. You think Wang Jie did this, too?


    I nodded. Although I couldnt confirm it now, from my experience, itwascertainlyrted to Wang Jie.


    Lin Qiusheng was so angrythat his face turnedred. He grunted and cursed Wang Jie for being heartless. I shook my head. If we knew the murderer, Ru Xue wouldnt need to go to see him.


    No, she should still go! Lin Qiusheng insisted.


    Wang Jie isnt only greedy, but hes alsoperverted. If hes not seriously hurt, he will goon thedate.


    Sooner orter, we had todeal withhim. I contemted and agreed with his idea.

 Chapter 580: Young Master Song and the Turtle Soup

    Chapter 580: Young Master Song and the Turtle Soup


    Thenext day, Lin Qiusheng and Iwentto the coffee shop one hour before themeetingtime. We found a rtively hidden corner and sat down.


    A momentter, I saw Ru Xue with beautiful makeup enter the coffee shop. She chose a table that was within our sight, but she couldnt see us from herposition.


    It wasasLin Qiusheng had assumed. Not even a fewminutes after shehad taken her seat, Wang Jie arrived. Wang Jies waist looked bigger. It seemed he had bandaged it.As soon as he saw Ru Xue, his eyes opened wide. He started to flirt withher.


    Ru Xuehadehereunderthe premise that she had aone-sidedlove for him. She treated him charmingly. A momentter, Wang Jie wasalreadyinfatuated with her.


    I thought it was enough. I made a call to Ru Xuesphone. Immediately, Ru Xue got the signal.In a slow voice, she said seductively,Wang Jie, do you want toe to my house?


    How could Wang Jie deny her offer? He wrapped her waist,leftthe coffee shop,and gotin hiscar.


    Lin Qiusheng and I sneaked out of the coffee shop from the back doorand got inthe van that waswaitingoutside. Xiao Zhao immediately stepped on the elerator. The van moved forward!


    When we came to an apartment we had just rented, I knocked on the door. No one answered.I opened the door with my key. Then,we all found a ce to hide.


    As soon as we hid, we heardalock clicking sound followed by Wang Jies despicableughter. When the door was closed, Ru Xue said that she needed to take a shower to get rid of Wang Jies control.


    Lin Qiusheng and I stormed out. Each of ushelda knife.We immediatelybesieged Wang Jie. Since hehadeto see the beauty, Wang Jie didnt bring anything with him. We had scared him well, which made him take out the phnx and release thespirit.


    Once more, I heardhim tellthespiritthat he would reward it with a bowl of turtle soup.However, it was different from yesterday. He didnt direct thespiritto attack us buttoldit to grab a stick nearby!


    I gave Lin Qiusheng mandinglook. Lin Qiusheng dashed forward with a knife.Although hehada knife in his hand, it was clear he had neverbeen ina fight before. His random shes couldnt hurt Wang Jie at all. Meanwhile, Wang Jie seized some chances to hit him with his stick.


    I was worriedabouthim, but Ididn''thave time to help. The spirit was flying toward me!Thespiritstarted with a fast attack. When I had just parried it in the front, it had moved right behind me. If Iwasnthurt, I could reluctantly deal with it. However, my left arm couldnt move as fast as it used to be, which also restricted my bodys movement.


    The spirit seemed to recognize that my left arm was injured, so he deliberately attacked it. It was strenuous for me to deal with him. Lin Qiusheng could hold his ground for a while with his knife. However, I was slowly getting the lower hand.


    As soon as the spirit was about to dominate me, I snapped my fingers. Immediately, Ru Xue walked out of the kitchen, carrying delicious foods in both hands. She put the dishes on the table.


    It was Li Mazis idea. He said that since the spirit always wanted to eat until bursting, at the critical moment, we could use delicious foods to distract it!


    Li Mazis method worked surprisingly well. The spirit was attracted by the food. He immediately flew to the table and ignored me. As he was in spirit form, he couldnt eat. Still, he loomed over the table and hungrily took in the smell of food. He simply ignored Wang Jies scream.


    Wang Jie had roared and yelled for a long time, but the spirit didnt listen to him. He became restless. He screamed that he would never stew turtle soup again.


    When he said that, the spirit didnt drool over the food anymore. It seemed turtle soup had something to do with the spirit when he was alive. I was curious about who that guy was when he was alive.


    The spirit became brutal again. I pulled myself together. However, the wound on the left hand had affected me. I had to use all of my strength to be an equal match to the spirit.


    Lin Qiusheng saw my situation and made a quick decision. He recklessly hacked his knife at Wang Jie, which made the man bewildered. Wang Jie automatically raised his stick to parry. The stick was broken, and the knife continued its way to attack him.


    Wang Jie immediately sat down to avoid the attack. Before he was hit, he was quick enough to summon the spirit to carry him away. They jumped through the window and fled.


    I had always watched him, so as soon as he summoned the spirit, I sprinkled salt at them. The spirit screeched in pain, but it didnt slow down.


    When I came to the window, Wang Jie was nowhere to be seen. As I had let him go a few times, I wondered when I could finally catch him. I couldnt help but curse. Damn it, just like a turtle retreating in its shell...


    When I said turtle, something suddenly came to mind. I took out my phone to search for turtle soup. The web search results popped up fast. In the Kingdom of Zheng during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, there was a man called Young Master Song. He was a rtive to King Zheng, and lived under his care.


    One day, Young Master Song went to the pce with the imperial guard. Along the way, his index finger shook unceasingly. The guard was curious so he asked, Whats going on with your finger?


    My index finger is very smart. When it shakes like this, it means Im going to enjoy delicious foods. When they came to the pce, they found that King Zheng had stewed turtle soup to treat his important officials.


    During the feast, the imperial guard reported the interesting story of Young Master Songs index finger to King Zheng. King Zheng immediately nned a prank. He didnt distribute the turtle soup to Young Master Song.


    Oh, your index finger didnt work well today, did it? joked the King.


    Young Master Song was enraged. He dipped his finger into King Zhengs bowl, sucked it, then said, How could my finger not work? It just tasted the delicious food, didnt it?


    Then, he left arrogantly. To prevent King Zheng from killing him out of his wrath, the next day, Young Master Song came to the pce with his guards. He took the initiative to murder King Zheng and take his ce as the king.


    But it was a pity that Young Master Song wasnt popr or convincing enough to the important imperial courtiers. Soon, they condemned him for treason and gave him a death sentence. His body was thrown into the wild to be eaten by wild dogs.


    After reading the article, we looked at each other and felt awkward. Young Master Song was bold enough. Because of a bowl of soup, he killed the king. King Zhengs death was too awkward.


    Anyway, it seemed the pinky phnx was Young Master Songs index finger. It was gluttonous, and that was why it could affect Lin Qiusheng and make him stuff his stomach with food, even to the point of killing him!


    This finding made me feel uneasy. However, the important thing to do now was to find Wang Jies hideout. If we couldn''t deal with Young Master Song, Lin Qiusheng would have to live in danger!


    Lin Qiusheng just smiled. Dont worry. From what I know about Wang Jie, when he gets mad, he will do something crazy! We just need to make him think that my sense of taste has recovered. Im sure he will jump out. Tomorrow, I will spend more money to shoot another cuisine show


    I nodded. It was the only thing we could do now.


    The show was broadcasted for three days, but we heard nothing from Wang Jie. We all thought that this trick of Lin Qiusheng wasnt useful. However, he insisted that Wang Jie would stay idle for a week at most!


    In the evening of the fourth day, I was still in Lin Qiushengs house, keeping watch. Seeing the time tick by, I shook my head.It seems Im going to waste another night.


    Right after I sighed, the small bells in the room jingled! I got a hold of myself and grabbed the Sirius Whip tighter. Something had just intruded into the house!


    I had used extremely fine red threads to chain a dozen small bronze bells and hung them in different corners of the Lin familys house. I had closed all the windows of the house as I didnt want to let the winde in. Since the bells were jingling now, something was entering the house.


    I kept my eyes on the direction of the bells. Soon, a cold wind rushed in. I jerked back then rolled around to dodge the wind. The cold air moved behind me. Instinctively, I wielded my Sirius Whip. Borrowing the force from the whip, I slid a distance to avoid the attack.


    I turned around and saw Young Master Song, his eyes bloodshot. He was hurling himself toward me.


    I was scared. It had been just several days, and Young Master Songs Yin energy had strengthened by a lot. He had even recovered half of his soul that I had smashed in the previous fight. It seemed Wang Jie had been patient until tonight because he wanted to strengthen Young Master Songs Yin energy!


    As I had been alert for several days in a row, my strength wasnt at its fullest. Moreover, I had underestimated Young Master Song. At this moment, he was slowly gaining the upper hand. I was getting mad. I retrieved the Sirius Whip, took out an ancient leather belt, and aimed it at Young Master Song.


    In ancient times, when people buried a deceased person, they would use leather to wrap the dead body because all ghosts were afraid of leather. Indeed, Young Master Songs furious attack subsided after he saw the leather belt.


    When he slowed down, I immediately moved faster andshed the leather belt. It finally coiled around Young Master Song. The more he struggled, the tighter the leather belt became. I knew my chance hade. I picked up a bowl of turtle soup I had prepared and poured it into Young Master Songs mouth.


    At first, Young Master Song struggled hard. But when he tasted the turtle soup, he calmed down. As he didnt react furiously, I quickly poured the entire bowl of soup into his mouth.


    I had put the blood of two roosters into the pot and stewed the turtle for a few days. There was no doubt about its power!

 Chapter 581: The Spirit Inside the Jade

    Chapter 581: The Spirit Inside the Jade


    Indeed, after I poured the entire bowl of turtle soup into his mouth,Young MasterSong started to howl in pain. In the next second, he began to dissolve as if he was being eroded from the inside out.At thismoment, Wang Jie suddenly rushed in. SeeingYoung MasterSongs patheticappearance, he knew the circumstances didnt favor him anymore.He wanted to run away.


    Before I could react,Young MasterSong hurled himself forward and bumped into Wang Jie. Wang Jies body went stiff, and his movementsbecamerigid.It seemed Young MasterSong had taken control of his body.


    InWang Jies body,Young MasterSong furiously turned to attack me. His fast speed made me smack my tongue in awe. Feeling flustered, I sprinkled the refined salt on him, but it didnt work. I decided to use the Yin and Yang Umbre. However, he was so fast that Ididnthave enough time to openit.


    In justtheblink of an eye,Young MasterSong had scratched me several times. While dodging him, I looked around to see if I could use anything to confront him. If he continued his frantic attacks like this, my body would soon be scratched into a sieve!


    At thismoment, Isuddenly sawa lighter on Lin Qiushengs desk. I took the chance and grabbed it.I immediately threw the lighter hard to the ground. With a loud crackle, the lighter was broken and the st of me was enough to burn the calendar on the desk.


    Ghosts were afraid of explosive noises. I had just wanted to make some noise to scare him and seize the chance to open the Yin and Yang Umbre. Unexpectedly, Ihad horribleluck, andIhad createda small fire!


    Young MasterSong halted. I immediately threw the open Yin and Yang Umbre towards him.


    He immediately turnedaroundto run as he knew the Yin and Yang Umbre was powerful.Unfortunately for him, Wang Jie was just an ordinary human. After a period of furious attacks,his body didnt listen to the ghostmandsanymore.At thismoment,Young MasterSongs moves looked very uncoordinated.


    I read the spell faster and faster. The Yin and Yang Umbre spun and imprisonedYoung MasterSong.


    I was cheered upby this. Iwanted to destroy him, butall of a sudden, my body couldnt endure it anymore;Inded on my butt. The Yin and Yang Umbre also dropped onYoung MasterSongs body.


    As the Yinand Yang Umbres halohaddimmed out,Young MasterSong licked his lips.


    He wants to eat me!


    I bit the tip of my tongue and crawled towards the Yin and Yang Umbre. Then, I spatmy blood on it. With my essence blood, the Yin and Yang Umbres radiance was much stronger.Young MasterSong screamed for a whilebeforedisappearinginto thin air.


    Wang Jie fell. He struggled hard on the ground for a long time, but in the end, he couldnt get up on his feet. I finally heaved a sigh of relief. I rxed andidon the ground.


    Soon, Lin Qiusheng entered the room. He was worried when he saw me and Wang Jie lying on the ground. Master Zhang, did youdeal withYoung MasterSong?


    I pointed at Wang Jie. Im sure heis stillkeepingthephnx.Young MasterSong hastortured me for days. I want that phnxas myinterest.


    Lin Qiusheng smiled. He loomed over Wang Jie and searched his body to find the phnx. ording to your rule, its themission. However, I still have to give you some more for yourbor.


    I chuckled and didnt deny him. In the next second, my eyes rolled to the back of my head. I fainted


    When I woke up, it was around noon. I was so hungry that I grabbed chopsticks and started to dig in the food. Lin Qiushengughed. Look at you, I guess the phnx also affects you.


    As I had rice in my mouth, I didntreply tohim. I gorgeddown the fooduntil I couldnt eatanymore. Then, Iced the bowl backon thetable. How did youdeal withWang Jie?


    Lin Qiusheng took in a deep breath. I let him go.


    I was surprised. I hadnt expected that Lin Qiusheng would be that generous. Wasnt he afraid that Wang Jie would take revenge again?


    Sigh! I dont knowthe reason, but Wang Jie eventuallyrealizedhe was wrong. He wept and apologized to me.He didnt look pretentious at all, said Lin Qiusheng.


    After listening to him, I understood the situation.Earlier, whenYoung MasterSong possessed him, Wang Jie was scared out of his wits.


    Anyway, it was good that Wang Jie admitted that the incident was his fault. I wasnt sure that they couldrekindle their friendship. But at least, Lin Qiusheng would have one enemy less from now on.


    After filling my stomach and receiving the generous payment from Lin Qiusheng, I bid him farewell. Lin Qiusheng asked Xiao Zhao to take me home. Before I got into the car, I remembered something. Mr. Lin, has your sense of taste recovered?


    Lin Qiusheng shook his head. Its all right! Iveearnedenough money.For more money,I almost paid for it with my life.I understandwhats importantnow.


    I smiled as I understood him. He finally got it.Many peoplehadturnedthemselvesintoridiculous clowns in public just to earn money. For the sake of money, they didnt care about their dignity or even their bodies.


    Its not that having money isnt good.Butsome people will never feel that they have enough, no matter how big the sum they have earned. And this is despite their primal wish that they could earn enough to make ends meet. If the basic living condition, which is to have a safe life, isnt achieved, what good is it to possess a lot of money?


    Wang Jie had wanted Lin Qiushengs life because of a small show.Everythingwas because of greed. Anyway, he was lucky that he had met Lin Qiusheng, who was a good man.


    However, thereweremany people like Wang Jie in thisworld. And how many people like Lin Qiushengwouldone meet when they made mistakes? They could only sink deeper and deeper into the dark vortex and let the darkness swallow them whole!


    I indulged in my emotions whilesittingin the car. All of a sudden, Xiao Zhao asked from behind the wheel,Mr. Zhang, could you help me with something?


    I nodded. As long as I can do it, I will help you.


    She smiled and found a ce to park the car. Then, she gestured atme to get out of the car.We went to acafeby the street.


    Master Zhang, I think something foul has been pestering me these days, said Xiao Zhao.


    After listening to her, I felt awkward.This woman and her boss have something inmon! They both encountered foul things almost at the same time!


    However, I stillmadea serious faceand askedher totellme more details.


    Xiao Zhao took off ablood-redjade pendantfromher neckand gaveit to me. This jade pendant was originally yellow. Idontknowwhen, buta red wisp appeared inside. But these days, it has turnedpletely blood-red. Sometimes, it will heat up!


    I received the jade and took a close lookat it fromdifferent angles. I found no problemswith it. If the jade releases faint heat, itcouldbeatypical warm jade. If youkeepit with you for a long time, itll begood for your health. Although theblood-redhue looks scary, Ivefound no Yin energyfromit, I told her simply.


    When I said that, Xiao Zhaos eyes reddened. She didnt mind that we were in a public areaandpulled down the cor of her high-neck sweaterto show me her neck.


    Feeling embarrassed, I looked around. Fortunately, we wereseatedin a rtively remote corner. Therewereno other people around. Xiao Zhaos sudden movementdidnt attract anyones attention.


    WhenI saw her neck, I had to take in a breath of cold air. There were so many kiss marks on her neck. Some were red,whileotherslooked like day-old bruises. Moreover, judging from the colors of the bruises, it looked somewhat sadistic to me.


    Xiao Zhao felt embarrassed as Ihad staredat her neck for a long time. She adjusted her clothes then started to weep. These days, at night time, I alwaysfeelthatsomeone is kissingme. But when I open my eyes, I dont see anyone. At first, I thought I was dreaming. But in the morning, when I washed my face and saw these bruises in the mirror, I was shocked.Since that day,the jadelooksredder. I thought that a pervert visited my house at night time, so I set up the cameraonmy phone to recordmyselfsleeping.However,I only saw myself rolling and struggling on the bed as though I was pushing something away from me.


    Then, she showed me the video on her phone. It wasasshe said. It looked like something was looming over there. At the same time, more and more kiss marks appeared on her neck. It seemed something foul had been pestering her.


    I lifted my head to take a nceat XiaoZhao. She was beautiful, indeed. If shewent intoshowbiz, she would be a goddess.Wasthat the reasonaperverted ghostwaspestering her?


    However, the darker the bruises on her neck, the deeper the color of the jade. It spoketothe fact that the jade pendant was rted to this case.


    Xiao Zhao, how long have you been wearing this jade?


    Ever since Icanremember. Iveheard that its a family heirloom thatwasimparted to the male descendants. However, until my generation, my family only has me. Thats why I got it.


    The older the jade item, the more likelyfor it tohave a spirit.The body of a female virgin was the best to nurture jades. As she had worn the jade pendant for more than twenty yearsand it was a family heirloom, it shouldnt be a problem for her toachievethis much.


    Anyway, Ihad heard fromsomewhere that jade woulddevelopaffectionforits wearer after a long time. If she could nurture a jade spirit, that jade spirit would love her.


    I guessed Xiao Zhaos jade had a jade spirit. With that thought, I asked Xiao Zhao, I hope you dont mind,but I guess you are in love these days, right?


    She was amazed. How did you know that?


    I smiledwhen I knewthat my assumption was correct. The jade spirit was jealous. To confirm my thought, I had to be thick-faced and asked, Have youbeen intimatewith your boyfriend?


    Xiao Zhao didnt look atease, but she wasnt foolish. She understood it immediately. Because of that?


    I nodded and exined more to her. Everything in the world can have a spirit after existing for a long time. Once the spirit has intelligence, it will likely fall in love with the owner that has nurtured and helped create it. I guess your jade has a spirit and its jealousofyour boyfriend. Thats why it haseoutand is troublingyou.


    What? Xiao Zhaos eyes opened wide in shock. What should I do? I cant just stay single for the rest of my life because of this jade.


    I held the jade in my handandgentlystrokedit twicebeforereturning it to Xiao Zhao.


    It wasnt a hard matter to solve. She would just need to put the jade into a bucket of water and change the water every three days. After theblood-redcolor of the jadpletely faded, the jade spirit would be melted. As long as she stopped wearing the jade, there would be no more trouble.


    Xiao Zhao couldnt thank me enough, but I didnt feel happy.Oncethe jade spirit was dissolved into water, the jade wouldnt be alive anymore. It felt like I had just killed a person.


    Anyway, from the color of the jade, I knewthatif she continued to keep it, the jade spiritcouldbe an evil spirit. I decided to solve itnowand help its owner feel rest assured forever.


    I didnt let Xiao Zhao take me home. I slowlywalked back to the shop. These days, Iwas feelingweary after solvingYoung MasterSongs case. And, I didnt feelfortable as I had indirectly destroyed a jade spirit.


    People had startedto learn how to create tool spirits from theInte, but when bad thingshappened,they would destroythat spirit.


    Some tool spiritswould be forced to beevil just to satisfy a humans endless desire. Those spirits would be eliminated in the end, which was somewhat sad to me.


    Humanshadalways been selfish, and otherworldly merchants couldnt always help them. The only thing we could do wasto try ourbest.


    It was like when the giant Kuafuchasedthe sun. He knew that he would never seed, but he pursued his ideal without second thoughts!


    It was our responsibility, and also our fate!

 Chapter 582: The Anorexic Female Model

    Chapter 582: The Anorexic Female Model


    Asthephnx otherworldly item case wapleted, I used themission from Lin Qiusheng to pick a top JaguarRoadster from a 4S store. It was the reward Ihad givenmyself.


    Itwas worth mentioning that with theconnectionsfrom the Circle, I soon found a suitable owner for the phnx.


    She was an international model with anorexia. Since shehad to walk alongthecatwalk every day, she had to strictly control her diet, which resulted in her bony figure. She didntfeel likeeatingordrinking anymore,and she was about to die.


    I considered her case.Shedidntfeel likeeatingordrinking, and the phnx would make peopleswallow as much food as possible. It was the right treatmentfor hersickness, wasnt it?


    Thatwaswhy the deal waspleted quickly. I heard that afterthe modelgot the phnx,shebegan to eat a lot. Within one month, she had gained fifty pounds. Sheboasted that I washer great benefactor, andshehada new favorite dish, which was turtle soup. People then startedreferringto her as Miss Turtle Soup.


    Today, while I was brushing dust off the antiques in my shop, a white Lamborghini drove into the antique street. I took a nceat itand spotted the te number. Itwas licensed in Shanxi.Just this licensete alone was much more expensive than my entry-levelsportscar.


    Many tycoons in Shanxi gotrich from coal. Moreover, they liked to collect antiques to show their taste and level of prestige.It seemedsomeone was driving a superb car onto this antique street to shop around.


    I scurried around my shop todisysome antiques at the most eye-catching positions on the shelves.Thiscould be a meatymb;I wouldfeelsorry if I didnt chop it off today!


    Theantique business was some sort of scam. If youencountered anexpert in the field, a real antique could maybefetchenough to buy tea. Butif you were lucky and got someignorant and filthy rich customer,youwouldfeelsorry if you didntripthem off.


    Those big bosses collected antiques just to show off. They wouldnt mind the prices. Moreover, if the price was high, they could brag aboutthat as well.


    After presenting all the antiques, I sat down calmly at the door of my shop. I helda cup of jasmine tea from which I leisurely took sips.


    Chuyi liked jasmine tea the most. I heard that he didntliketo drink boiled water,soft drinks, or alcoholic drinks, so he settled onjasmine tea.I slowlyseemed to have inherited his habit.


    As soon as the teawentintomymouth, the clear, refreshing scent stormed tomynostrils. It felt sofortably good that I couldnt talk.


    In this antique business, except for a sharpandquick tongue, you would need to pretend to be bold and aloof as well.It couldgive you the air ofan awesome expert.


    Soon, I heard rapid footsteps outside. I was cheered up instantly.The fish got hooked!


    As soon as I was about to greet them, I heard a hoarse voice.Excuse me, are you Mr. Zhang Jiulin?


    I lifted my head and saw amanaround fifty years old. He was looking at me with opaque eyes. At first nce, he looked haggard. From his hurried gait, I knew he wasnt here to buy antiques. He needed my help.


    I stood up and answered, I am Zhang Jiulin. Why do you want to see me?


    The middle-aged man didnt say anything. Hestrangelypped his hands. Two bodyguards wearing sunsses immediately ced a box on my counter. They opened it. The box was packed with stacks of RMB notes! There should be one or two million in cash!


    The bodyguards pushed the boxes toward me. Heres the deposit.


    If this had happened when I had just entered this business, I would have fainted in awe. But as the number of cases I had eptedbecamegreater and greater, one million in cash wasnt enough to trouble my sanity. Moreover, I understood well that thehigherthe payment was, the tougher the case would be.


    I indifferentlypushed the box back. Sir, could you tell me what happened first?


    When I asked that, the middle-aged man squatted and began to weep silently. He couldntforma sentence even after a long time. I hurriedly pulled him up and guided him to the sofa, givinghim some tissues.


    After a long time, the middle-aged man finally pulled himself together. With red eyes, he introduced himself.Mr. Zhang, I am Jiang Teng. This time, I havee to beg you to take revenge for my son!


    Then, he shakily took out a stack of papers from a document fileand handedthem to me.


    It seemed he didnt want to recall the painful memory. He sniffed a few times, thenmade up his mind and asked his bodyguard to talk to me. Still weeping, he walked outside.


    The bodyguard sighed.Mister Zhang, please forgive our Chairman. His son hasjustpassed away. Hehasntstabilizedhis emotions yet.


    I couldnt me him. In this world, there was nothing more painful than saying goodbye to your children. I took a nceat JiangTeng, who wasstanding outside my shop. Both of his hands covered his face. His shoulders heaved up and down. He wasfilled withmournful sadness.


    The bodyguardsaw that I wasabsent-minded,so hecalled me and asked me to read the document I was given.


    When I opened the file, I wasstartled andalmostthrewit away. It wasntawritten document. It wasthephoto of a bloody dead body!


    In the photo, the bodyidacross the bed. The head was smashed like a sted watermelon. Chunks of white brain matter were scattered on the ground. From the way the body was dressed,the victimwasa fashionableyoung man.


    Behind the photo was the forensic report. The deceased was named Jiang Guanguan. The cause of death was being hit byablunt weapon. He died immediately.


    I closed the documentandslowly asked,Did you confirm that it wasntthe doing of ahuman being?


    The bodyguard nodded. After we found the body, weimmediatelycalled the police. They found no signs of thecrimebeingmitted by a human. Wevechecked all the cameras around the vi, and we didnt find any suspects entering or leaving the vi. Moreover The bodyguard wiped the cold sweatoffhis forehead then continued, ording to the forensic report, our Young Master only got hit once, but the attack was strong enough that his head waspletelysmashed.


    I finally understood it. The skull was the toughestpart ofthe human skeleton. Ordinary people would never be able to st someones head with only one blow. Itseemed to have beenmittedbyanevilspirit.


    Mr. Zhang, what do you think? The bodyguard gingerly called me as I had kept silent for quite a long time.


    When I saw the photo, I had decided to ept this case.It was an otherworldly item that dared to kill people in broad daylight. Subduing it was the responsibility of anotherworldly merchant.


    Jiang Teng walked into the shop. He was touched when Iagreed to work on his sons case. Mr. Zhang, when can youstart? Please take revenge for my son!


    I understood his restless, worried mind. Illcollect some stuff, then we can go.


    While collecting my tools, I texted Li Mazi and Yin Xinyueand toldthem that I had epted a case and that I needed to go on a business trip for a few days. They shouldnt be worried about me.


    After collecting all the things I needed, I went downstairs and saw that everyonewas waiting inthe car. When I got into the car, I saw Jiang Tenglookat me. It seemedhe wanted to tell me something. However, he didnt say anything.


    Whats wrong? I thought something had happened while I wasfetching my belongings.


    Unexpectedly, he said, Please forgive me for what Ididwhen I first entered your shop. I couldnt think of anything else as my son hasleft me forever.


    I waved my hand. I understand aparents heart.No worries, Sir.


    Jiang Teng calmed down and told his driver to depart.


    Alongthe way, I took the chance to ask Jiang Teng to tell meaboutthe situations before and after the murder case. As Jiang Teng had calmed hisemotions, he started to tell me the details. Hisvoice was lowand still hurtful.


    The day before the murder was Jiang Guanguans birthday. He had gone out to enjoy the day with his friends. Hereturnedhome in the wee hours.


    When his son came home, Jiang Teng was still working. Thatwaswhy he remembered this detail. At that time, his son was so drunk that he didntunderstandanything. The servant in the house had to support him to go to his room.


    Whenever my son got drunk, he would behave crazily. This time, he was so quiet. He hardly talked. After around ten minutes, I was worried about him, so I went to his room to check.I didnt I had never thought that my son, Guanguan


    Jiang Teng almostbrokedown when he came to this part. With red eyes, he whined and med himself.If I hadgo check on him earlier, he wouldnt have died


    From what he had just shared, I knew it musthave beendone bysomespirit. Anordinarypersonwouldnthave beenable to kimaninsuch ashort time and erase all the evidence.


    I didnt askfor more informationas I was afraid that Jiang Teng would feeleven more down. I closed my eyes and rested.


    Early the next morning, we arrived in Taiyuan City. As the car was crossing the viaduct, I looked through the window. The aura of a city with a thousand years of history weed me. It was truly an ancient city where every de of grass and brick contained interesting stories.


    After the car drove off the viaduct, we headed East for a long time before pulling to a full stop in front of a five-star hotel. I looked at the hotel and felt weird. Since Jiang Teng was so worried, I thought he would take me directly to his house.


    Jiang Tengs countenance was strange. I have some urgent business to attend to. I was worried that you would feel tired, so I got you a room here. Dont worry about the expenses. Please understand my situation.


    I remembered that he got a call on the way here. I was half-sleeping at that time, so I didnt catch the content of his call. I remembered that he needed to go back to solve something, and it seemed to be very urgent.


    Still, what would be more important than taking revenge for his son?


    Yesterday, he had cried his heart out and wanted to sh the murderer a thousand times. But today, he had pulled himself together, and he could now deal with his business errands with such a cold face


    I indifferently bid him farewell then entered the hotel with the bodyguard.

 Chapter 583: The Mysterious Head-Blast Case

    Chapter 583: The Mysterious Head-st Case


    The bodyguard received the room key card from the front desk and gave it to me. Excuse me, Im going back to protect our Chairman!


    I smiled and waved at him. Just go, Im not a three-year-old kid.


    The bodyguard turned then left.


    He had taken me to the VIP suite on the highest floor, which cost at least five thousand renminbi per night. I went to the floor-to-ceiling window where I could observe half of Taiyuan City. I moved an armchair to the window and casually watched the scene out there.


    If Jiang Teng loved his son so much, why is he worried so much about something else?


    And, if he wanted to solve something that was rted to his son, why did he hide it from me?


    After thinking about it for a long time, I still got nothing. I simply stopped contemting and got something to eat. After lunch, I directly took a nap. I needed to prepare for anything that would soone.


    When I woke up, it was evening. The blocks of bright lights outside the window looked magnificent. I couldnt help but take a photo of the beautiful scene with my phone and posted it on my WeChat Moments.


    After posting the photo, I found it strange that Jiang Teng didnte to see me. He hadnt called me, either. I frowned while thinking about it. Most of the people that had trouble with an otherworldly item would wish to get rid of it as soon as possible. That man was different. He put me in this luxurious hotel to enjoy a leisure day.


    I was afraid that the otherworldly item had harmed him already, so I called him. The phone rang for quite a long time before the line went through.


    Mr. Zhang, Mr. Chairman is in a hurry. What do you need?


    Hearing the bodyguards voice, I was assured. No, its nothing. I just wanted to ask when I can start working.


    The bodyguard kept silent for a while. Our Chairman has encountered something tough to solve. I dont know when he can finish. When hes done, he wille to pick you up.


    I was speechless and hung up the call. I put on a thick coat and left the hotel. Taiyuan was a famous city with a great history. It wasnt like I could visit such a city whenever I wanted. It would be a big waste if I didnt tour around!


    I took a leisure walk and tasted some Taiyuan delicacies, including oily meat, steamed mutton dumplings, and Taiyuan tender tofu. After my stomach turned rounder, I decided to head back to the hotel. That was when I received a call from Jiang Tengs bodyguard.


    He sounded panic-stricken, and his voicewasintermittent. I had to listen to him carefully to know that he was waiting for me at the hotel. He asked me to return quickly.


    It felt likethe sky was going to copse on them! I stopped a taxi and returned to the hotel. When I arrived, I saw the bodyguard waiting for meinthe lobby, his head held low. One of his hands tightly pressedon the electric baton on his waist. He looked tense.


    I patted his shoulder. What happened?


    When he lifted his head to look at me, I saw that he waspale, and the muscles on his face twitched.It seemed he was greatly shocked.


    He looked at me asthoughhe had just seen his savior. He sprang up and grabbed my arm. In a trembling voice, he said,Zhang Mr. Zhang


    The bodyguard had to gather all of his strength to tell me a full sentence.Another person got his head sted!


    I was aghast. I hurried to pull the bodyguard into my room. After he finally calmed down, I asked him to tell me the details.


    The bodyguard took a few deep breaths. When he looked better, he started tosayslowly,The victim was our Young Masters friend.


    It turned out the issue Jiang Teng hadto deal withtoday was rted to his son. Jiang Guanguans friendhadrecordedpart of the party, capturingthe events thathappened that night.He didnt knowhow, but the video waster leaked.


    Rich kids birthday parties always had something they didnt want to be public. Jiang Teng didnt want to see his kid be insulted or criticized after he was gone. He hurriedly contacted the mediapanies to erase those negative posts.


    However, there was oneizen that was stubborn enough. No matter how much Jiang Teng had offered him, he didnt want to delete the video he had posted on Weibo. It was also the reason Jiang Teng was so busy todaythat he didnt have thetime to see me.


    In the end, Jiang Teng didnt have anychoicebutto geta hacker to hack that Weibo ount. Unexpectedly, thatizen was also an excellent hacker.They were entangledin the battle for a long time. Jiang Tengs side had to struggle hard to delete the others Weibo ountpletely.


    After solving this matter, Jiang Teng wanted toe and fetch meatthe hotel.


    WhenJiang Guanguans friend had heard from Jiang Teng that I could help them take revenge for Jiang Guanguan, he also wanted teand see me.


    Jiang Teng knew that he was Jiang Guanguans best friend, so he didnt deny him. The boy had acted normallyalongthe way until their car reached a traffic light at an intersection. All of a sudden, he struggled and demanded to get out of the car. No matter how hard Jiang Teng pulled the young man back, he couldnt stop him.


    As soon as the boy got out of the car, he started to move around. Then, the green light was on. The cars behind started to honk.


    Jiang Teng craned his head through the window to call the young man to return to the car. Themandidnt listen to him but moved to the front of the car as though he wanted to stopitfrom moving forward.


    Right when Jiang Teng didnt know what to do, the young mans head exploded. His blood and brain sshedon the windshield


    The bodyguard was the driver, so he saw everything. The windshield was dyed with red blood, whichscared the wits out of him. His body softened, and he couldnt get a hold of himself. After a long time, he realizedhe had tocall the police.


    He knew it wasnt something a human could do, so it was no usein callingthe police.However, if he didnt call the police, he and Jiang Tengwouldnt be able toexin themselves. The police arrivedquickly. Being suspects, the bodyguard and Jiang Teng were brought to the police station. After checking the on-dash camera, they agreed that this murder case was beyond theircapacity.


    Wheres Jiang Teng? I asked the bodyguard. They were together, but I didnt see him.


    The bodyguard wore a wry smile. Although the police believed that weweren''tthe murderers, the boys parents think that wedidsomething that caused his death. They didnt want to let us go.


    Feeling hopeless, Jiang Teng had to send the bodyguard to pick me up. He stayed in the police station to deal with the boys parents.


    Our Chairman wantsyou to gotheretosee if you can find anything.


    I nodded and grabbed my bag,then leftthe hotel with the bodyguard. As his car was kept at the police station as evidence, we had to take a taxi. Fortunately, the road was clearand we got to the police station quickly.


    Before I entered the ce, I heardpeoplecrying at the top oftheirlungs. From the bodyguards countenance, I knew it was from the deceaseds parents.


    Indeed, in the lobby, a woman and a man were grabbing and pulling Jiang Tengs tie. Some policemen were trying to calm them, but the parents still insisted that Jiang Teng had killed their son.


    Jiang Teng let them pull him back and forth, but when he saw me, he moved away from the crying couple and walked toward me. He held my handand saidwith emotion,Mr. Zhang, youre finally here!


    As it was an urgent situation, I didnt want to talk nonsense. Take me to see the surveince video.


    The policeman in charge of this case knew that I was specialized in dealing with paranormal activities. Heimmediatelytook me to the control room.


    The situation wasnt different from what the bodyguard had told me. On the screen, the boy looked restless and annoyedas he walkedback and forth. When the green light glowed, Jiang Teng urged him to get into the car. All of a sudden, the young man walked to the front of the car. His head abruptly exploded without any prior indication. Blood and pieces of brain sshed everywhere.


    After watching the video, my stomach churned.I had almost vomited. I didnt have a big reaction when I heard the story from the bodyguardbut now, with visual images, it was so gory!


    I had encountered many spirits that had killed people, but this kind of bloody violence was so rare. Most of the time, spirits would just ng pots and bowls to create loudmotions. However, this spirit only had one purpose: it wanted to kill people.


    I thought, then asked the policeman, Can I see the body?


    ording to the judicial procedure, the body should be in the Forensic Department. I can take you there if you want to see it.


    When the deceaseds parents heard that I wanted to see the body, they jumped toward meand beggedme to find the murderer. While talking, theyredat Jiang Teng.


    Jiang Teng didnt say anything.He reluctantlysighed.


    Looking at the heart-broken parents, I knew it wasnt useful to say anything to them now. I said some simpleforting wordsthen left with the policeman.


    The Forensic Department wason thesixth floor. The forensic doctors werebusywiththis murder case. However, from their faces, I knew they hadnt made any progress.


    After seeing us, a forensic doctor wearing a whiteb coat and a surgical mask came to greet us. Hehandedthe report to the policeman standing next to me, thensaid ina serious voice,Old Wu, this case is the sameasthe previousone.We dont have anyclues.


    Old Wu nodded to him, then handed me the report.


    And who is this gentleman? The forensic doctor was curious as Old Wu had given me the report. He gave me a curious nce.


    Old Wu simply introduced me as a master that was specialized in dealing with mysterious cases like these. The forensic doctor gave me a faint nod. I could capture the incredulous gleam in his eyes.


    I greeted him,thenasked Old Wu to show me the body.


    The body was put in the freezerstorage at the back of the sixth floor. Old Wu and I had to put onb coats, disposable gloves, and shoe protection before entering the storage area.At the firststep, I shuddered. I had to pull my clothes close to me.


    The deceased was covered with a white fabric sheet. Although I had taken the time to prepare myself, when the white sheet was lifted,the sightscared thewitsout of me!The body was clean, and therewere no cutsonit. However,the deceasedonlyhadone-third of his head left. It was a shockingsightto see the mess of blood and brain on his head.


    I tried to not vomit at the scene. Anyway, itappeared thatthe victims head was smashed by something blunt and heavy. Moreover, there was no ck mark around the wound.


    Normally, when a spirit killed someone, it would leave some ck marksaround the wound.Thosewho knew something about this profession all knew this feature.


    After working in this business for a long time,I hadumtedquite a bit ofexperience.Two kinds of spirits couldkill people without leaving any Yin energy behind. The first kindwas aspiritthat had power at the Ghost King level. These spirits could conceal theirYinenergy.


    The other kindwas aspiritthat people had started worshipping posthumously, like themonkJigongor the Tea Sage Lu Yu I hadencountered in the past.However, no matter what kind of spirit it was, it wasnt easy to deal with!


    I felt like there was a small drum beating in my heart.After lingering in this cold room for a while, I hadnt found anything else. Soon, I asked Old Wu to leave this freezing ce.


    When we came back to the lobby of the police station, Jiang Teng and the deceaseds parents rushed to meand askedif I found anything.


    Its troublesome. I frowned.


    Jiang Tengs face darkened. He hurriedly asked,What should we do now?

 Chapter 584: Burning Paper Money

    Chapter 584: Burning Paper Money


    I shook my head. The biggest problem is that we dont know where thespiritcamefrom. Moreover, we dont know if it will kill more people.


    That thing had killed a manintheblink of an eyeandleft the murder scene in the next second.There was no time to react.


    I had stood still for quite a long time, but I couldnt figure out any solutions.Feeling helpless, I had to ask Jiang Teng to take me to his house to see if there were any clues.


    The bodyguard drove fast. After around ten minutes, the car stopped in front of avish vi. Immediately, a servant came to open the car door and respectfully invited me out.


    When I got out of the car, I felt a little ufortable. I couldnt adapt to this etiquette. Jiang Teng was used to it. He didnt evennce atthe servantanddirectlywalkedinto the vi.


    The interior of the vi was decorated even morevishly than the outside. The floor had Italian tiles, too. I didnt know that Jiang Teng was this rich.


    I looked around the house and noticed that the entrance corridor of this house was arrangedording to the geomancy set upof receiving wind and storing energy. I was certain that they had consulted a master.


    Thus, thegeomancyof this vi could attract wealth and expel evils. Jiang Guanguanshouldn''thaveattractedsomething fos he lived in such an auspicious ce. I thought there should be somethingelse, too.


    I turned to Jiang Tengand asked, Before your son died, did he doanythingstrange?


    Jiang Tengthought, thenshook his head.


    I wasnt pleased with that answerand askedfurther,Hashe ever offended anybody?


    Jiang Tengs face turned strange. After a long time, he answered embarrassedly,My son was a little rebellious during his adolescence. He didnt like to talk about his personallifewiththefamily.


    I wanted to ask more, but a bodyguard pushed the door open and interrupted me. He sounded hurried. Mr. Chairman, that personhaseagain


    Jiang Tengs face changed again. He darkly shouted, Are youguards trashor what?


    Before the bodyguard could exin, Jiang Teng interrupted himand saidannoyedly,All right, Illsee for myself.


    The bodyguard looked hesitantashe turned to me.It seemedhe didnt want me to follow his boss. I arched one brow. I want to check thegeomancyof the rooms here. Im not going downstairs with you.


    Both of them heaved sighs of relief. Then, they hurriedly left.


    Anyway, Jiang Guanguans bedroom window faced the entrance of the vi. I could just hide behind the curtain to observe the situation down there.


    At this time, several guards were surrounding a gray-haired old man. The old man was kneeling on the grass; abrazier was in front of him. While crying, he was putting something into the fire. I squinted and recognized that he was burning paper money!


    It was really unfortunate to burn paper money in front of the house.It was no wonder Jiang Teng wore such a bad face.


    The beefy bodyguards all had their electric batons ready, which were vibrating dangerously. However, no one took action. This group of people looked strange, indeed.Then, one of the bodyguards moved aside, which gaveme room to see thattheold manhada knife ced at his throat. He looked as though he would kill himself if someone made a move.


    Soon, Jiang Teng appeared within my sight. Unexpectedly,the first thing he didwas turnto see the room where I was standing. I was startledand hid behindthe curtain. Subconsciously, I thought he was watching me.


    If hewasafraid that I would know something about this old man, then this old man must have something to do with Jiang Guanguan.


    Soon, thepeople began to quarrel. I vaguely heard Jiang Teng insult the old man and the old man whining.


    A few minutester, the vis quietness resumed. I heard footsteps from the corridor. Thinking that it could be Jiang Tengheadingto this room, I pulled myself together and watched the ground. I pretendedto be checking something.


    Mr. Zhang The bodyguard called me. It soundedlike he was questioning something.


    What? I lifted my head abruptly.


    The bodyguard changed his countenanceand smiledat me. Its gettingte.Doyou want to rest early?


    I got up and rubbed my numb legs. Aftergiving him a nod, I asked him to settle me in the roomopposite JiangGuanguans.


    I had waited for the whole night but found no clues. I was skeptical if thespiritwoulde back here one more time.


    When the bodyguard came to call me downstairs for breakfast the next morning, he was surprisedto seeme haggard with dark circles under my eyes. I wasnt thick-faced enough to tell him that I had stayed up the whole night for nothing.


    After breakfast, I asked the bodyguard to get me some red paper. Jiang Teng didnt get it. Forgive me for taking the liberty to ask, but why do you want red paper?


    I looked at himand saidindifferently,Youll know tonight.


    I didnt know why, but after seeing the white-haired old manst night, I felt somewhat hostile toward Jiang Teng. Id seen enough rich people doing bad things. Although Jiang Teng had purposely hidden things from me, I thought I couldsomewhat guess it.


    Jiang Teng didnt pester me as he hadrecognized that I didnt want to exin. While the bodyguard was out buying the red paper, I rested on the sofa.


    When the bodyguard came back, he hadpany.Theman with him looked arrogant. When he talked to people, his eyes haughtily turned upward. I felt irritated.


    After the manwentto the study room with Jiang Teng, I turned to ask the bodyguard, Isthat man one of Jiang Tengs business friends?


    The bodyguard nodded. Sincethat person had nothing to do with Jiang Guanguan, I didnt need to care about him.


    I asked the bodyguard tobringthe red paper to the room with me. We then used a pair of scissors and Jiang Guanguans picture to cut up a paper doll. I used cinnabar ink to write Jiang Guanguans birthday on the back of the doll.


    Afteradding a fewdropsof Jiang Tengs blood on it, I put the paper doll on Jiang Guanguans bed.


    After everything was done, the bodyguard asked me curiously,What are you doing?


    Making a stand-in.While wiping my hands with a towel, I exined to him, I wrote Young Master Jiangs birthday on the doll and added his fathers blood. I want to make thespiritthink that Jiang Guanguans still alive.


    Jiang Teng and Jiang Guanguan had a blood bond that thespiritcouldnt distinguish. I was certain it woulde again.


    The bodyguard took in a deep breathand asked incredulously,You mean, you want to entice it toe here?


    I shot him a strange look. If I couldnt lure thespiritout, how could I solve it?


    The bodyguard recognized that he had asked a dumb question. Im sorry. I was so scared yesterday. Icouldntkeep calmwhen you said thespiritwoulde here.


    I nodded as I understood. I gave him a spirit talisman to protect himself. The bodyguard anxiously put it into his shirt pocket and thanked me repeatedly.


    I waved my hand. Not at all. Anyway, I need to take a nap. You stay hereandwatch. Do not let anybody approach the paper stand-in.


    The bodyguard grimacedand asked,CanI ask someone else?


    Looking at his fearful face, Iughed inwardly. Pointing at the sun held high in the sky outside, I said, Spirits wonte out during the day. Dont worry. Wake me up when the sun sets.


    He exhaled and patted his chest. I promise I will watch the doll well.


    I gave him a satisfied nod and left.


    At around twilight, the bodyguard woke me up. I got up and ate something before going to Jiang Guanguans bedroom. I hid into the wall closet that faced the window.


    To observe the room, I pushed the doors of the closet openjust a little. As the nightcame, the light in the room was swallowed little by little. Soon, it waspletely dark.


    I smeared some garlic waterovermy body to conceal my Yang energy. Then, I closed my eyes to resume myposure.


    As time ticked by, Istarted to feelworried. At midnight, I heard the wind howling. It was blowing into the room through the window.


    I thought to myself,Here ites!

 Chapter 585: First, Beat the Incapable Ruler; Second, Beat the Evil Citizens!

    Chapter 585: First, Beat the Incapable Ruler; Second, Beat the Evil Citizens!


    After that thing got into the room, I held the Sirius Whip tightly andcameout of my hiding spot. I saw anky shadow raisea dark iron whip. The whip was aimedat the paper dolls head.


    Before the shadow found me, I carefully assessed him. He was wearing the official uniform of the Tang Dynasty. From the official hat and the gorgeous patterns embroidered on his clothes, I guessed he had a rtively high position when he was alive. However, he stood with his back to me, so I couldnt see his face.


    Argh! When the iron whip hit the paper stand-in, I heard Jiang Tengs screamfrom downstairs.


    I was surprised.I knew it wasnt good.


    I hadsprinkleda few drops of Jiang Tengs blood on the stand-in to increaseitsYang energy. However, I hadnt expected thespirit to bestrongenough toaffect even Jiang Tengs real body.


    Thisdevelopmentwas beyond my expectation. I knew I couldnt wait anymore. I immediatelshed my Sirius Whip.


    Thespiritblockedmy Sirius Whip with his iron whip without even turning his head around. Immediately, all the magic power of the Sirius Whip was used up! The shadow then emitted thick murderous energy, which made me feel breathless.


    As soon as I was about to read thesacredtext of Daoism to stop the murderous energy, thespirithalted. Then, his sky-reaching murderous energy subsided.


    Hmph! Thespiritsnorted and jumped through the window. Itdisappearedinto thin air.


    After he left, I slumped on my butt and wiped the sweat off my forehead.I was still shocked.What position did thatspirithave when it was alive? I couldnt even attack him once!


    At thismoment, someone banged on the door. I got a hold of myself and opened the door. The bodyguard was standing outside. He waslooking at me withanexpectantface.


    I shook my headandsoundedsomewhat dispirited. Dont ask me if I got thespirit. I didnt even see his face. I only sawthat he wore ack official uniformfromthe Tang Dynasty. Hes got excellent martial art skills as well.


    The bodyguard sighed. Then, he remembered that he had to take me to see Jiang Teng. I ran downstairs and found Jiang Teng clutching his head on the sofa. His facial featureswere twistedin pain.


    Iwentto check him. He was all right. Dont worry. Youre all right.


    Jiang Teng exhaled in relief, then asked the bodyguard to support him to his room. After heleft, I sat on the sofa and reyed the recent incident in my head. I didnt know why thespirithad spared me at that moment.


    His murderous energy wasnt fake, andIfeltscaredwhen I recalledthat suffocating feeling. However, at the critical moment, he left.


    After thinking about it for a long time, I still hadnt figured anything out. My head became heavy. I had to wobble upstairs.AsI was about to enter the guest room, I found something strangeinJiang Guanguans bedroom.


    I came closer. I was aghastto seea line of words, which seemed to be written with blood. The blood was still oozing.First, beat the incapable ruler;second, beat the evil citizens!The words were emitting resentful energy!


    I was stunned. Now, I knew Jiang Guanguan had offended someone. I decided to ignore my sleepy headand dasheddownstairs to find Jiang Teng. I needed him toinvestigatewhat had happened during the night before his sons death.


    When he heard the words,First, beat the incapable ruler;second, beat the evil citizens,his face changed drastically.He said, Im going to investigate this as fast as possible.


    I nodded. As soon as you get the result, you must tell me. Then, I went back to the guest room to sleep.


    When I woke up the next day, Jiang Teng and his bodyguards werent in the vi. The maid in the vi told me that they had hurriedly left the house early this morning after receiving a call.


    What happened?I mumbled to myself. I didnt want to see another body with an exploded head.


    I hadwaitedfor the whole morning in the vi, but they hadnt called me yet. I decided to call them. Both of them had their mobile phones turned off.


    Ifelt even more worried. Determinedly, I left the viand walkedalong the streetwhilethinking about how to lure thespiritout one more time. Thisspiritwas so terrifying and intimidating that the stand-in could only trick it once!


    With many thoughts in my head, I had inadvertently walked far away. When I recognized my surroundings, I found myself in front of a public cemetery.


    I cursed under my breath.After taking a quick scan of the public cemetery, I decided to go back. All of a sudden, I saw the old man who had burned paper money in front of Jiang Tengs vi. Hewas carryingan empty basket. With a crooked gait, he slowly walked out of the cemetery.


    It seemed he had justfinishedmakingofferings toadeceased person. I still hadanimpression of him from the previous night, which made me look at him longer than required. I recognized something: He had gray hair that made himappearto look likea sixty-year-old old man, but his face, whichwas covered in sorrow andgrief, wasthat of a man in his forties.


    This contrast made my heart jump. A vague thought popped up in my head. However, it was gone before I could catch it


    When the old man walked past me, he shot me an indifferent nce as though he was looking atanenemy!


    Instinctively, I took a step back. I wanted tolook athimagain, but the man had walked farther away. I shook my head, thinking that it could be just a hallucination of mine.


    When I returned to the vi, it was around twilight. Jiang Teng and his bodyguard hadnte home yet.


    I ate something for dinner thenwentto Jiang Guanguans roomandidon his bed. Closing my eyes, I tried to imagine the situation before his death.He was drunkand wobbledto his room. He fell on his bed and cked out at that instant. Then, a cold wind swept into the room. Jiang Guanguan woke up because it was cold. He went to close the window. At that moment, the iron whip that carried the power of one thousand catties hit him and directly sted his head.


    While in thought, my heart sank. I sat up all of a sudden. While I wasimaginingthe moment of Jiang Guanguansdeath, I feltathick murderous aura.Here ites again!


    I gathered my courage and looked in the direction of the murderous aura. I saw a man standing by the window with his back facing me. He held the iron whip anddidnt makea move for quite a long time.


    I wanted to move and see his face. However, as soon as I got off the bed, the man jumped through the window!


    It looked like he wanted to take me somewhere. Afterhesitating for a while, I grabbed the Sirius Whip and jumped through the window as well. Indeed, he was waiting for me not far from where I hadnded.


    I gritted my teeth and walked behind him. Eventually, I found that the spirit had maintained a proper distance from me sothatI would neither lose track of him nor be able to see his face.


    To shorten the distance, I thought about usingaspell to inviteaspirit to carry me. However, when the ghosts arrived and saw the shadow ahead of me, they were scaredand scatteredimmediately.


    Ibecameeven more curious about thisspirit. After walking for a long time, I recognized that we were heading to the South of the city.


    After walking for around three hours, the man suddenly elerated and made a turn. I paced up after him. However, heddisappeared.


    There was a stone stele in front of me with some words carved on it. I couldnt read them from whereI was standing, but I knew they were important. I strode faster. Unexpectedly, right as I was about to see the words, I heard the bodyguardcallme from behind.I was about toturn around, but then I realized that it was impossibleforthe bodyguard to be there!


    Athunderpsuddenly echoed. It boomed so loud that it could pierce through peoples eardrums. My eyes shot open! I was on Jiang Guanguans bed!


    A chill arose in my heart. Thespiritalmost got me in my dream. I was lucky that the bodyguard had woken me up. Otherwise, I couldnt imagine the consequence!


    The bodyguard waited until my face had more color. Mr. Zhang, anotherpersonshead exploded.


    What?! I opened my eyes wide. The bodyguard nodded and started to tell me thedetails.

 Chapter 586: Spirit Congregating Formation

    Chapter 586: Spirit Congregating Formation


    This time, the victim was the son of an important leader in this city. It was the sameasthe other previous two cases. His head exploded, which resulted inhis instant death.


    Although thisguywasnt a top leader, he held a lot ofpower. He immediately learned about my existence from Jiang Teng.


    After telling me about the new incident, the bodyguard smiled. Mr. Zhang, if you can take revenge for thevictims, you willforgeastrongrtionship withthe people in this city


    I was speechlessand toldmyself that I hatedhavingthis sort of connection to government officials. In somecases, even if I solved the situation,they would try to kill meto shut me up.And, if I couldnt solve the problem,it was likely Iwould never be able to run my shop again. It was adifficult situation.


    Do you want to go to the scene?


    I nodded. If the leader knew about me, I had to go and take a look.


    Alongthe way, the bodyguard carefully advised me, Mr. Zhang, when we arrive, please mind your behavior. Do notget into a fightwith the leader.


    Even if he didnt tell me, Iknew that much.Well, good citizens shouldnt fight against the officials.I understood this way of life.


    When we arrived at the ce, our car was stopped outside the iron gate.Apolicemanfinishedchecking us thoroughly. Heeven took things likesnacksaway.


    Another policeman guided us throughyers of securitytothe living room.In the middle of the living room was a crystal coffin. I could see the body inside through the transparent walls of the coffin.


    In front of the sofa was an outline of ahumanfiguremarked by white chalk.This ce seemed to bethe death scene.


    This body was simr to the previous two. Except for the exploded head, there was no other wound. I asked the bodyguard andlearnedabout adifferent detail about this case: The murder took ce in the morningwhenthe sun had already risen


    Although the morning sunlight wasnt very strong, this living room was naturally well-lit. Normally,aspiritwouldn''tdare to show up duringsuch a time. To me, it was very, very bad news.


    After I had carefully checked the scene, I was brought to the backyard. The bodyguard wanted to follow me, but the policeman stopped him.


    Jiang Teng was sitting with a ssy, bespectacled man. From Jiang Tengs proper posture, I knew he was tense. Meanwhile, the elegant man looked more rxed.


    When he saw me, the elegant man waved his hand. The policeman left.


    Then, the man assessed me fromheadto toe. I heard from Old Jiang that youhave a lot oftalents.Ill giveyou three days to capture that murderous, ghostly thing. Is it a problem? He drawled his words. His finger tappedthe table from time to time.


    As I hadnt answered him yet, the man added,Mr. Zhang, you have many good things in your shop, right? I guess some of them are national treasures.


    I was startled inwardly. This man had investigated me thoroughly within one day! I knew he had an important background.


    Its no problem!The corner of my mouth twitched when I agreed with him.But in my heart, I was cursing the eighteen generations of his family.


    On the way back, I didnt talk to Jiang Teng. This man wasnt reliable at all. I hadnt made any progressonhis case, and he had directly sold me out.


    Jiang Teng checked me. He didnt have the guts to talk. The bodyguard knew the situation wasnt good. He kept his mind on the roadand didnt sayanything.


    As soon as the car stopped, I was attracted by the noise outside the vi. The gray-haired man hade back!


    He was like an enraged lion, burning the paper money in front of the vi. The bodyguard had muffled him. He couldnt talk,apart from letting outsome low whimpers.


    I turned to take a look at Jiang Teng.Hewas looking at the old man with hostile eyes. I was shockedand felt amurderous intent from Jiang Teng.


    When Jiang Teng recognized that I was looking at him, he put awayhiscruel countenanceand saidreluctantly,Forgive me, weve bumped into a trouble-maker.


    Then, he asked the bodyguard to get out of the car and direct his staff to shoo the man away. When the old man was thrown out of the gate, he shot me a menacing nce.


    I was sure that my eyes werent blurred this time. However, I didnt think about it much.Since I hadsatwith Jiang Teng inhiscar, hemight have thoughtthat I was Jiang Tengs new hound.


    I didnt linger in that thought. Aftertaking a deep breath, I told the bodyguard,Get me a pot of cooked glutinous rice and a bowl of fresh rooster blood immediately. I will also need two wax candles and a sheet of white paper!


    The bodyguard didnt say anything and rushed to prepare the items.


    What are you going to do? asked Jiang Teng.


    I spat the words,Congregating the spirits!


    Congregating the spirits was simr to Ouija, the game young people liked to y, justmore dangerous. It was easy to invitespirits when ying Ouija, but it was tough to send them away. The spiritsonecould invitemight even bertively powerful and with deep hatred. However, as long asthe userfollowed the rules, they wouldntbe harmed.


    Congregating the spiritswasdifferent. Whenonecongregated spirits,theywould massively invite all kinds of ghosts and spirits. Iftheywere careless,theycould even invitesuper strong spirits.Iftheydid,those guys would not leave without a sacrifice!


    Ihad no other choice now. If I couldnt solve thespiritwithin three days, I would be finished. I should tryitonce.Ifmy luck was good, perhaps I could summon thespiritthatwas causingtrouble.


    The items I requested were normal and easy to find.Around anhourter, the bodyguard returned.


    I told him to turn off all the lights in the vi. In the end, weonlyhadapair of wax candles to light up the living room. They lit the room withtheir faint yellow mes.


    When Ifeltthe time was right, I told Jiang Teng and his people,All of youshould go and wait in your rooms.No matter what noise youhear, do noeout!


    As they were already scared, they left immediately. No one wanted to linger.


    I shook my head reluctantly and spread the white paper sheet on the table.I directly dipped my finger into rooster blood and drew some red lines on the paper. The cookedglutinousrice was divided into four parts and ced in the four different corners of the paper. Together, they formed a simple Spirit Congregating Formation.


    Then, I squatted in front of the tableandrespectfully read the spell. Sacrifice with blood, using food to raise


    AsI read the spell, the red lines I had drawn on the paper slowly glowed. As the formation started to work, the red linesshonebrighter. When I finished reading the spell, the light created by the red lines on the paper floated up and created a strange butplicated diagram in the air.


    The Spirit Congregating Formation started to spin faster and faster. As the formation was moving, more and morespirits started to follow the light ande in.


    At first, there were some small ghosts. I could use some joss sticks and yellow paper money to send them away. Then, rtively strong ghosts came. I could use a drop of blood tosendthem off. However, as thespirits with stronger power arrived afterward, I had to struggle hard to deal with them.


    I held the Yin and Yang Umbre andcautiouslylookedat the ghosts that were fixing their eyes at me like a pack of hungry wolves. I couldnt help but curse.Damn it! I dont want to be drained before that thinges!


    After cursing, I decided to wait for two more minutes. If it didnte, I woulddeactivatethe Spirit Congregating Formation immediately!


    As soon as Ihadthis thought, a cold wind blew into the room. The ghosts that were bargaining with me immediately fled when they felt the wind.


    Instantaneously, a murderous aura pped my face.My legs felt like jelly. However, it was the only chance I had. Holding onto the Sirius Whiptightly,I was ready tofacethe enemy.

 Chapter 587: Amazing Detective Di Renjie

    Chapter 587: Amazing Detective Di Renjie


    Even after a long time, thespiritstood still. I was afraid that the Spirit Congregating Formation would lose its power. I closed my eyes andshed the whip at the locationthathad the thickest murderous aura!


    Argh!


    At the same time, Jiang Teng screamed painfully. The murderous energy around me vanished at that instant.


    I recognized that it wasntanythinggood. I turned the power switch on and ran to Jiang Tengs room. On the way, I saw the bodyguardrushout of his room. Together, we went to Jiang Tengs room. We had to take in a deep breath when we saw what happened in the room. Jiang Teng was clutching his bleeding head. He was rollingon the ground.


    Hurry! Call the ambnce! I shouted andwentto the living room to grab the first aid boxtobandage Jiang Tengs forehead.


    The ambnce came and took Jiang Teng to the hospital.Ashe was pushed into the emergency room, some policemen walked to me from the other end of the corridor. It turned out the hospital hadcalled the police.


    Fortunately, the leader of that police team was Old Wu,the manthat had taken me to the Evidence Departmentearlier. He helped me out of this possible misunderstanding. Old Wu knew that I was investigating these cases, so hehadeto confirm the incident. Afterward, hewaited with me and the bodyguard.


    I hadnt seen thespirits face yet, andmy client was almost killed. I swore I wouldsolve this case.If not, I would take my signboard down!


    The doctors tried their best to save Jiang Tengs life, buthe was still unconscious. The bodyguard and Iswappedshifts to watch him in the patient room for one day and one night. He hadnt woken up by the evening of the next day.


    The bodyguard was worried. Willthespirie to the hospital?


    My eyes brightened athis words. The Yin energy in the hospital was thick, whichfacilitated the ghosts toe here. Moreover, thespiritdidnt seed in killing Jiang Teng yesterday, so hewould probablye again tonight to aplish his mission. I pulled myself together and asked the bodyguard to move Jiang Teng to another room.


    The bodyguard shook his head. The doctor told me that before Mr. Chairman wakes up, he needs to stay in the ICU.


    I turned to see Jiang Teng. It was true that he shouldnt stay in another patient room. I thought for a while. Could you persuade the doctor to let me enter the room? I canwear scrubsorprotectiveclothes.


    The bodyguard was hesitant. I frowned.Unlessyou want his head to explode,you should go.


    The bodyguard immediately turned and headed to the Deans office. After a while, he returned with two sets ofprotectiveclothes. He gave me one andputon the other set of clothes.


    I realized that he also wanted to apany me. Later, just wait aside and be quiet. Do not let thespiritfind you.


    When we entered the ICU ward, the door immediately closed behind us. It felt like all the noise of the world outside was stopped behind that door.


    I took out theSacredText of Daoism from my bag and putthe bookon Jiang Tengs bed. I didnt know the origin of thespirit, so I decided that it would be good to use the mostmon method to deal with it.


    I taught the bodyguard a few verses of thesacredtthat were easy to remember. When you seeanything wrong, just read the Sacred Text of Daoism.


    The bodyguard nodded. He brought a stool and sat by Jiang Tengs bed. I opened the Yin and Yang Umbre to shield the entranceto theroom and held the Sirius Whipin myhand. I felt more confident now.


    At around midnight, a cold wind suddenly twirled up from the floor of the room. Iimmediately pulled myself together and waited to see if the Yin and Yang Umbre wouldreact. However, the umbre had hovered still for quite a long timewithout moving. I knew that if I dyed it,something badwould happen. I hurriedly screamed, Read the text!


    The bodyguard responded well. He started to read the Sacred Text of Daoism. As his lips moved, the book on the bed suddenly glowed in gold light. The books halo then expanded and covered Jiang Teng and the bodyguard entirely. As soon as the gold light shrouded them, an iron whip tore the wind and hit the halo!


    The halo shook under the impact. I worriedly looked at Jiang Teng, then exhaled in relief as the man didnt react badly.


    While I was feeling lucky that the Sacred Text of Daoism worked, the wind turned to hit me from above. My heart dropped at the moment.


    Immediately, I jerked backward to avoid the attack. However,I was too slow and allowedthe whip to hit my leg.


    I thought my leg would be broken, but it was just alittlenumb. I became skeptical.That whip could smash peoplesheads like a watermelon, but my leg just felt a tiny bit of pain. Did he deliberately show me mercy?


    Soon, I stopped thinking about this idea. I took a handful of cinnabar powder and tried to sprinkle it on him. Thespiritmoved aside to dodgeit.


    I almost criedwhen I saw thatthe cinnabar powder worked! I finally found one thing that thisspiritwas afraid of. After cursing, I sprinkled the cinnabar again. I cheered upto see thatthespiritsmokedwhere the cinnabar hit him. I hurried to control the Yin and Yang Umbre to cover him.


    The Yin and Yang Umbre spun fast and hovered above him. However, I found that the light from the Yin and Yang umbre didnt create any damage to thespirit.


    He lifted his headto lookat me. He smirked.


    It was the first time I saw his face. Hehadchiseled facial features. His nose was straight with a high bridge, and his eyes were as bright as the early morning stars. His beard also gave touches of natural righteousness to him. He looked familiar.


    I was somewhatirritated, so Icrazilshedmy whip at him. However,he was able to dodge all of my attacks. When the Sirius Whips power was drained, thespiritgave me another cold smirk. In the next moment, he shed and disappeared.


    After hewasgone, an image appeared in the back of my head. It was the stone stele Ididnthavethe chance to observe in my dream!


    The next morning, I asked the doctor, Are thereany famous attractions in this area?


    Hmm, theresnothing famous here. Ah, yes.Theres Di Vige.


    Di Vige? My head buzzed. I finally confirmedmy guess.I borrowed the car from the bodyguard and wearily drove to Di Vige. However, there was nothing in that ce. I had to ask some locals and learned that the remains of the Di Vige had been relocated to Tanghuai Park.


    Tanghuai Park was just a few hundred meters away. I walked andarrivedthere in around ten minutes. From a far distance, I sawabig locust tree. People said that Di Renjies mother had nted it herself. There was a stone stelein the shade of the tree. It read,Old Hometown of Duke Di of Liang.


    Gosh! The stone stele in my dream was the sameasthis one!


    I walkedalongthe small path in the park and soon, I saw the ancestral hall dedicated to Di Renjie. There was a bronze bust of Di Renjie nted outside the ancestral hall. At first nce,everything seemed normal.


    Was I wrong? I wasnt satisfied and continued walking.


    Inside the ancestral hall was a smaller statue of Di Renjie holdingaweapon. He was wearing ack official uniform from the Tang Dynasty. His statue looked majestic.When I saw the weapon in his hand, I took in a deep breath of cold air. Thiswhip that was made of four different iron sections was the sameasthe one thespiritused.


    In history, Di Renjiewasan important courtier his whole life, and he built everything with his bare hands. Moreover, hewasthe Chancellor twice during the Tang Dynasty. While in his office, healways took careof the people andgotrid of the corrupted officials. He helped Wu Zetian build a prosperous Tang Dynasty. Moreover, Di Renjie had a special talent.He was a god-like and righteous judge, which wasrare during that time!


    When he was in his office at the Court of Judicial Review, he spent a whole yearsolvingmany cases ofinjustice.There were as many as seventeen thousand people involved in the cases.After he solved thecases, none of thepeoplinedabout injustice. People then startedaddressinghim as theAmazingDetective Di Renjie.


    When foreigners read about Di Renjies stories, they were stunned. They called himtheSherlock Holmes of the East.


    In legends, to facilitate Di Renjie when he solved the difficult cases, the former Emperor bestowed upon him a weapon called Kang Long Jianthe Dragon Neck Truncheon. Itrepresented the emperor himself. With this weapon, Di Renjie could first beat the incapable ruler and second, hit the evil citizens!


    Whether thelegendary whipreally existed or not, it was where the people in ancient timesputtheir hopes. It was representativeof Di Renjies upright and inspoken image.


    Since Kang Long Jian only hit the evil-doers, I understood why Di Renjie had always shown mercy to me after a few confrontations.

 Chapter 588: Kang Longs Regret

    Chapter 588: Kang Long''s Regret


    I knew where I could startlooking for clues.I directly drove to the public cemetery. I wanted to find that gray-haired old man.


    He had burned paper money outside the vi, andIsuspectedthat Jiang Teng or Jiang Guanguan had caused the death of one of his familymembers.


    Perhaps he had done that to vent out his grief? My intuition told me that he woulde to the cemetery again to worship the dead.


    I had been waiting at the gate of the public cemetery until nightfall. Finally, the old man came with a basket of fruits.


    When he walked past me, I grabbed his hand. He reactedquickly, justas though he was afraid ofme. He threw his basketatme and ran away. Luckily for me, he wasnt fast enough. He was also limpinga lot.


    I didnt chase after him. Uncle, did Jiang Teng cause the death of one of your familymembers?


    The old man halted. He turned and shot me a fierce nce. He shouted, but his voicechokedwith his sobs. You stand on the same sideasthat filthy animal!


    I rushed to him.I looked himin the eyeandexined,Uncle, I have nothingto dowith Jiang Teng. He invited me here toinvestigate aparanormal phenomenon in his house. However, Ivefound many thingsthat didnt look rightwhile working with him. Thats why Ive to you.


    The old man looked at me. At first, he didnt fully trust me. In the end, he waved his hand and said, Come with me.


    After a short walk, he stopped in front of a grave. Stroking the portrait on the tombstone, he sobbed again. This is my daughter, Tiantian.


    Under the moonlight, I looked at the portrait. It was an eighteen years old girl with a bright and sweet smile.


    My little daughter killed herselfst month.


    Before Iasked, he started to tell me the story while weeping. It seemed he had borne this pressure for quite a long time.


    My wifepassed awayearly. I lived with my sweet daughter. She was my treasure. It was a lot of trouble to bring her up. This kid of mine always had good senses. I never needed to care about her schooling. Last year, she was admitted to a big university. I still rememberedthe momentshe got the letter. She told me,Dad, the hard days are gone. Ill take care of you!


    However, no one had expected that an eighteen-year-old girl at the brightest time of her lifewouldencounterher worst nightmare.


    Tiantian had apart-timejob at a hotel. Unexpectedly, Jiang Guanguanwentthere for dinner andid his eyes on her. At first, Jiang Guanguan used his wealth to entice Tiantian.However, Tiantian ignored himand left.


    As he had lost his face in front of his friends, Jiang Guanguan was angry. He pulled Tiantian to him and poured her a ss of wine with drugs in it


    When Tiantian woke up, she found herselfonthe bed with Jiang Guanguan next to her.He was naked.


    She knew what had happened to her.As she wasscared, she screamed at the top of her lungs. Jiang Guanguan was awoken. He threatened her not to cause troubleif she didnt want to lose her reputation and dignitypletely!


    Tiantian told her father about the incident. Theywent to the police station to report it.However, Jiang Teng stepped in and overturned everything. He saidthat Tiantian wanted Jiang Guanguans money. Thatwaswhy she slept with him.


    At that time, the casecreated a bigmotion. Manyizens helped Tiantian use the heartless rich boy. However, Jiang Tengwas too strong;he could even buy the police and the judge tocreatefake evidence. In the end, Jiang Guanguan was acquitted. No matter how hard Tiantian tried to protest and beg the police, it didnt work.


    In the end, Tiantian couldnt bear such humiliation. She cut her wrist tomit suicide. When she was found,there were dozens of deepcuts on her wrist. At first nce, people knew she didnt want to live anymore


    After listening to the whole story, I felt disgusted. Then, I felt embarrassedthatI hadlivedunderthe same roofasJiang Teng!


    I shouldnt have saved him.I should have let the Kang Long Jian smash his head!


    I had apanied the old man in the cemetery for a long time, listening to hisstoryofTiantian. I didnt feel impatient.However,the more I listened to his story, the sorrier I felt for the girl.


    I didnt want to beat around the bush, so I asked directly, Uncle, are you the onecontrollingthe Kang Long Jian?


    The old man heard me and was shocked. He looked at me skeptically. I didnt mind his reaction. Uncle,whatabout the other two? What horrible thingshave theydone?


    One raped a minor, and the other caused a car crash while racing. He killed a family of three. They were all released as they were acquitted. The judge said that they had intermittent mental illnesses.


    The old man simply admitted everything, but the stories angered me. I didnt know what to say now.


    After a long time, I finally calmed down. Sir, why did you let me go at the critical moment?


    Didnt you run away yourself?The old man soundedconfused.


    Sure enough,Di Renjie had shown mercy to me.


    I sighed emotionally.However, there was one thing important I hadnt done yet. Sir, could you help me with one thing?


    Help you? He looked at me incredulously.


    I told him about the leader who had threatened me.


    The old man kept silent for a while. In the end, he suggested with red eyes, How about killing him, too?


    I was surprised and smiled. You just need to make thewhipcooperate with me to y ashowin front of that leader. We want to make him believe that I havesubdued the spirit.


    Of course, afterward, you cant useitagain. To repay your favor, I wont report your crimes because thosepeopledeserved to die.Actually,it wouldnt be enough even if they had died a hundred times! I looked at him. My eyesweresincere.


    The old man rubbed Tiantians tombstone. Jiang Guanguanisdead and Jiang Teng got his lesson. All right, Ive takenrevenge for my daughter.


    Three dayster, I called the leader to go to Jiang Tengs vi. The Kang LongJian cooperatedwith me for a nice y.


    After everything was done, the leader gave metheoriginal copy of a document. I opened it and found the evidence of my crimes. I hurriedly burned it


    After the leaderwasgone, I secretly left the ce and went to Tanghuai Park with Tiantians father.


    Kang Long Jian belonged to Di Renjie. Of course, we had to return it to its rightful owner. The two of us buried thewhipin a hidden corner of the ancestral hall.


    Although I wasnt against Tiantians fathers deeds, thewhipwas an otherworldly item. Sooner orter,anotherotherworldly merchant woulde for it.


    I didnt want todestroyit, but I wasnt sure if the otherswould do the same. Thatwaswhy the best solution was to hide it and let it sleep. After burying thewhip, I bid farewell to Jiang Teng and took a huge sum from him!


    On the way home, I looked at the blue skyandwhite cotton-like clouds. I felteven more pressure. It was hard to imagine how Jiang Guanguan would have continued his corrupted life if Tiantians father hadnt used Kang Long Jian to deal with him. No one would know how many young girls wouldhave beendestroyed in his hands.


    The days of officials covering up each others crimes hadnt passed. The transactionsofpower and money were well covered underack veil.Cover-upshappened everywhere.Thiswas the beautiful era we were living in.


    On the other side of joyoussinging, dancing, and feastingwerehundredsof millions of poor people crowding at the bottom of society. Day by day, they squeezed and cried, but they couldnt make a sound

 Chapter 589: Hold the Rock and Jump into the River

    Chapter 589: Hold the Rock and Jump into the River


    Time flew fast. It seemed summer had arrivedinjusttheblink of an eye.


    Ru Xue took Li Meng and his one-year-old sister Nianchu to her mothers ce. Li Mazi took the chance and persistently asked me out for a walk.


    As I was afraid that he would lose his mind if he kept staying home, I agreed to travel with him. We took the chance to travel to rural areas. Every day, we drove through mountains and fields. When we felt tired, we would find a lodge to stay the night and get something to eat.


    The days were strenuous, but wesawcountless beautifulsights. We had spent an entire week exploring the countryside.Whenthere was nothing else to see, we went home.


    Im not satisfied. I want to travel more! Li Mazi nagged and insisted. I had to follow him.


    Since we hadnt brought a lot of money and we had camped outside for a few days in a row, we felt tired. We decided to drive to the nearest town to find a good hotel to rest. Wehad towithdraw some money. Otherwise, wewould have toinhalethe Northeastern wind to fill our stomachs


    When we passed by a vige, Li Mazi suddenly stopped. He stuck out his tongue like a thirsty, big hound. LittleBrother Zhang, we should visit that vige to ask for some water.My throat isburning.


    Knowing him, if I didnt let himhavethe water, he wouldntstop talking. Moreover, it was scorching hot today. I couldnt endure the thirst, either. I nodded in agreement.


    Before we entered the vige, a vastfieldof green watermelons came to our sights. Li Mazi had tiny stars twinkling in his eyes. He directlywent overand picked a watermelon. Then, he wolfedit down.


    I felt awkward. I wishedthat people wouldnte over and beat himfor being awatermelon thief!


    Fortunately, no one was watching the field. I found shadeunder atree and sat down to take a lookat thisvige.


    The vige was encircled with rows of green trees. To the East, I saw a small river, which aroused my interest. I wanted to go therefor aswim.


    LittleBrother Zhang,e eat watermelon! Li Mazi quickly finished one watermelon. He took two more and handed me one.


    Nah, Im not eating now. You can have more! Afterward, we should go swimming!


    Then, I went to the riverbank. Li Mazi was interested inswimmingin the river, too. He tookoff hisshirt and wanted to jump into the river before me.


    As a routine, I checked the river first to see how deep it could be. The waters were strangely calm. I didnt see even a ripple or a small fish swimming there. It looked as though it was a pool of stagnant water. It was strange. Instinctively, I grabbed Li Mazis arm before he could jump into the water.


    Bro, whats wrong?


    Hold on, this river doesnt look right. I rubbed my eyes and forcefully opened my Yin and Yang Eyes. Then, I observed the river one more time.


    I gasped at first nce. The river didnt look deep, but it had ayer of hazy ck fog above.


    Usually, river water under the hot sunlight would evaporate and release steam. However, as I was standing on the riverbank, I could feel the cold air from the depths of the river.


    Li Mazi saw my stern face.In a ginger voice, he said,This river sure feels strange now that youmentionit.


    It seems weve gota new task to do. Lets gettothe vige to ask! Then, I turned towardthe vige. There was something in the river for sure.


    I could haveignoredit, butif I could help these vigers, my karma would improve.Thatwaswhy Icouldntjust leave!


    After a few steps, I suddenly heard rapid footsteps. I turned to look. On the opposite side, a man wearing a red vestjumpedinto the river. He sank immediately.


    My swimming skillswerentgood enough. I had to send Li Mazi to take a look.Hedidntreply andresponded by taking off his shoes, readyto jump in. I hurriedly grabbed him and put some soil into his mouth before letting him jump into the river.


    The water in the riverhad a pureYin attribute, and so was the soil. With the soil in his mouth, Li Mazi could adapt easily to the water. At least, he wouldnt drown himself with the other manifhe couldnt save him.


    Gosh! The water is so cold! Li Mazi paled as soon as he jumped into the water.


    He noisilyined, then divedinto the area the other man had jumped in. I stood on the riverbankand watched. I wassweating.


    Fortunately, Li Mazi quickly found the manwearing the redvest, and he was strong enough to pullhimup. However, it was strange that every time the mans head wentover the water, he soon sank backdown. It looked like somethingwasdragginghim down.


    Whats going on?


    Im afraid theres a water ghost!


    Li Mazi waved his hand. No, I dont think so. He continued to grope around. After a long time, he finallyliftedthe man to the riverbank.


    Li Mazi spat the water then cursed, Holymoly, that guy didnt want to live anymore. He jumped into the river with a rock! If Ihadnt beenstrong enough to take the rock from him, I would have drownedtoo.


    I was bewilderedand lookedat the unconscious man. I pushed on his chest a few times to make him vomit water.


    We got him as soon as he jumped into the water, so his life wasnt threatened. After he vomitedwater, he slowly woke up.


    With aconfusedface, his look shifted from the river to us. Then, he stooped and wept.


    I couldnt stand itwhen womencried,let alone an adult man! I turned my head aside in disgust.


    Li Maziwas panting. He spat and cursed,You are a big man. What burdenisweighingyour heart? You wanted to kill yourself and now you are crying. If I had known that before, I wouldnt have saved you


    You thought I wanted to kill myself?! The manin the redvest tried to suppress his anger when Li Mazi scoffed at him. His voice turned aggressive.


    I knew therewasastory behind this. My upational intuition surged. I reacted andsaid, Did you encountersomethingfoul?


    Iknew I wasbeing hasty. Before I had time tocorrectmy words, the man nodded then sobbed louder.


    Im Zhang Henshui, and I live in this vige. These days, I have beenlistless. Isleepfor more than twelve hours a day, but it isnt enough. At first, I thought I was so worn out because of the farming work. I didnt pay attention to it.This morning, I heard a voice in my head. Someone was urging me.I thought that I had sleptsomuch that my headwasmuddled. I took a shovel and left the house. I wanted to go to workonmy rice paddy fieldsbut when Iwentthere, the voice in my head grew louder. It asked me to go to the riverbank! I followed the voice to the riverbank to see what was there. As soon as I got to the riverbank, I felt a cold wind and lost consciousness afterward.


    I frowned.It seemedhed really encountered something foul. Isanything elsehappeningin your family these days?


    No, everything is fine. Theres only one thing:I always feel so tired after sleeping, more tired than working in the field. Sometimes, yinbed butfeeleven wearier than walking a hundred kilometers. When Igetup, my entire bodyfeelsso sore that Icantevengetoff the bed Zhang Henshui blurted without thinking. It seemed he had experienced these things for a long time.


    But to me, his situation was more like sleep-walking. I still wasnt sure if something foulwaspesteringhim, so I wanted to ask him if anyone else in his family had the same sleep-walking incidents.


    Before I could ask, hestarted telling usaboutanother event!

 Chapter 590: The Corpse-Born Locust Tree

    Chapter 590: The Corpse-Born Locust Tree


    A few nights ago, Zhang Henshui had some stomach irritation. Hemadehis way to the toiletunderthe moonlight. While sitting on the toilet, he thought he heard someone crying.


    The voice was intermittent, so Zhang Henshui thought it was just the wind. He didnt keep it in mind. After emptying his bowel, hewentback to his home. However, this time, he heard footsteps behind him, just as if someone was following him.


    Zhang Henshui thought thatathief wasvisiting him. He walked a couple more steps, then suddenly turned around.He sawno one.


    But when he was about to enterhishouse, he saw a shadow following him from the corner of his eye!


    When he came to this part, he gulped his saliva thensaid, When Itook a careful look, that shadowwas no longer there. I thought my eyes had tricked me. But from that night onward, every night, Ihavedreamedabout a man wearing a long robe. I have never seen his face, but Icanhear him crying.


    After talking, he smacked his tongue. Couldhebe theperson who instigated me to jump into the river?


    I nodded.It could be.Take me to your house to see.


    When Zhang Henshui saw theyellow fabricbag on my shoulder, he knew what Li Mazi and I didfor a living. He got upand led us to his house.


    When we got to the vige entrance, I saw a beefy man enjoying the shade. He looked rxed.


    When Zhang Henshui saw the man, his face changed drastically. He rushed to the man and shook his arm. The man didnt react, just as though he was a wooden dummy.


    Not good! Zhang Henshui patted his thigh. He rushed back to the row of willow trees at the riverbank and broke a twig. He came back and whipped the man hard.


    After three hits, the beefy man opened his eyes. He lookedpuzzled. When he saw Zhang Henshui, he shouted, Why are you hitting me?!


    Im saving your life. Zhang Henshui exhaled in relief when the man woke up. He then turned and exined to us.


    There was a rule thatwaskept through the generations in this vige: People were not allowed to linger at the vige entrance at noon or in the evening.


    In the past, not many people believed in this superstition, especially in the sixties. The Red Guards hade and persistently asked the vigers to take down the big locust trees at the back of the vige. Unfortunately, the farmers who joined the task of chopping down the trees all drowned in the next few days.


    After that, some kids went to y by the chopped locust treesandwentmissing. The vigers had to spread out and look for them everywhere. In the end, they found them at the riverbank with wet shoes


    While talking, Zhang Henshui rubbed the willow twig in his hand. This isamethod imparted by our ancestors. If someone sits there and loses consciousness, we should break a willow twig and hitthemthree times. Its how we can savethem.


    This man had settled down in this vige from another ce, so he didnt knowabout thetaboo. When he heard the story, his face changed. Hequickly left the ce after thanking us. After hewasgone, I couldnt help but observe the biglocusttree.


    Awillow treehad a pureYin attribute but it could expel evil spirits.ording tolegend, after the willow spirit was subdued by Guanyin Bodhisattva, it was put in her Jade Water Jar to be cleaned. Thatwaswhy willow branches had some spiritual energy.


    Whetherthe storyZhang Henshui told me was realornot, if he had sessfully helped the man wake up with the willow twig, it was true that the man had encountered something evil while sitting under the shade of that big locusttree.


    I thought I knew the key information. A thickyer of ck mist hovered around the locust tree, which became thicker and thicker down the tree trunk toward the root.However, the locust tree looked lushly green, and it didnt appearto beimed by something foul. To me, it looked like acorpse-borntree.


    When the dposed remains of people or animalsnourishedthe seeds underground and the trees grew fromit, they becamecorpse-born trees.Thesekindsof trees had thick Yin energy, and they were notverytall.


    In many ces, lightning strikes would hit some trees during the rain. The tree barks would turn as dark as ink. Those trees were thecorpse-born trees that were about togain intelligence. However, they couldnt resist the heavenly tribtion.


    Anyway, it was easy to deal withcorpse-born trees. We just needed to digthemup and cutthem. Zhang Henshui, whyhasntyour vigedoneanything to thistree?


    Itsnot that easy! Zhang Henshui gawkedand shookhis head repeatedly like a rattle drum.


    As long as we doneclose to thistree, it wont harm people. Moreover, during the yearsofnatural disasters, the people in the other vigeswouldhave starved, but manyanimals happened to appearunder thislocusttree. Thats why generations of our vige have been worshippingthis tree. We are afraid of it, but we also respect it.


    Iunderstoodhis idea. It was simr to worshiping the Fox Immortal. People knew that if they offended the fox spirits, they would be punished. Even so, people still wanted to worship them.


    It was the vigers choice and a cultural feature of the ce. I had nothing else toment, so I asked Zhang Henshui to lead the way.


    Soon, we arrived at his house. His wife greeted us and gave us a warm wee when she heard that Li Mazi and Ihadeto help her husband.


    Zhang Henshui had a little daughter around three years old. The girl was sitting on the threshold and ying with a cloth doll. It seemed Li Mazi missed his little Nianchu, so he lingered and yed with the girl.


    I wasnt as free as Li Mazi because I felt confused as soon as I entered thehouse. As it was noon, there was no Yin energy in thehouse. I checked with mypass and found nothing. Idecided towaitfornightfall.


    We stayed inhishouse that afternoon. Li Mazi was so happy ying with the little girl. As for me, I found a cool room to take a nap.


    At around twilight, Zhang Henshuis wife cooked a table ofdeliciousfoods and invited us out for dinner. I woke up and washed my face. When I went to the table, I saw that Li Mazi was sitting and eating already. However, I didnt see Zhang Henshui.


    Madam, brother Zhang isnt home? I asked.


    Zhang Henshuis wife waved her hand. Brothers, you should eat first. Old Zhang went out to pick some watermelons for you. Its good to have watermelon to cool down during the summer days.


    When she turned around, she mumbled to herself, Old Zhang has be strange, though. He has gone out for quite a long time just to pick a watermelon!


    WhenI heard that,I feltsomethingwas wrong. Something had forced him to jump into the river at noonand now, it was twilight! Moreover, from what his wife just said, he had been out for quite a long time!


    With that thought, I pulled Li Mazi, who was eating to his hearts content. Li Mazi was surprised, but he got it quickly.


    Brother, if Zhang Henshui already rodeacro paradise,should webring himjustice for his wifesand daughters sake?


    Shutup! You are the one whos going to rideacrane toparadise! I cursed him since I was anxious. We ran to the riverbank where Zhang Henshui had jumped this morning.


    Nomatter if itwas the manwearing the longrobe in Zhang Henshuis dream or the old locust tree at the vige entrance, they had somethingto do with this small river. If the poor viger was in danger, he must be around the river!


    When we arrived, the waterlookedcalm. There was no ripple.


    Li Maziwas panting.Are wete?


    I didnt talkand scurriedaround the river bank to look for him. Eventually, I saw somewater stainsandZhang Henshuis clothes by apileof soil.


    His garments were torn and deformed. It seemed he hadstruggledbefore he fell into the water. Li Mazi didnt talk nonsense. He took off his shirt then jumped into the water.


    I felt a little cheered upand thoughtthat Li Mazi still had hismorals. He had eaten mealswiththat family,and now hewas showingresponsibility!


    I sat down cross-legged and read the Sacred Text of Daoism. As the sky was getting darker and the water was getting colder, only heaven knew what was in that river. Reading thesacredtext could help scare them. I had to seize more time for Li Mazi.


    After around five minutes,nothingcameout ofthe water. I didnt haveacalm mind to read thesacredtext anymore. I got up and went to the riverbankand screamed. Mazi, where are you? If you cant find him, get up here now!


    After a few calls, no one answered me. I was worried that Li Mazihaddrowned.However, I couldnt swim well, so I could only stand anxiously on the riverbank.


    Several minutes had passed. I looked at the calm water. My eyes reddened. In the back of my head, I thought that Li Mazi was already gone!

 Chapter 591: Someone Wants to Kill You!

    Chapter 591: Someone Wants to Kill You!


    The calm water suddenly swelled. Then, I saw Li Mazis head protruding from the water.His face was red, but he still had strength. One of his arms was paddling in the water while his otherhand was pullingZhang Henshui.He slowlyswam toward me.


    Youfreakingscared me! I couldnt help but yell at his face. Then, I looked around to find a sticktoreach Li Mazi with.


    Li Mazi tried to swim a few more meters to grab the stick. I then gritted my teeth and pulled them to the riverbank.


    As soon as they got to thend, Li Mazi crouched and spat water. Then, he pointed at Zhang Henshuiand scolded,This time, not onlydid he huga big rock, but he also tied his legs together! If I hadnt swumlike a fish, Im afraid I would have been inacoffin by now!


    I turned to check Zhang Henshuis legs. He had used nylon strings to tiethemtogether.It was no wonder Li Mazi had beenunderwaterfor quite a long time.


    It seems we need to speed things up. Watching him all the time isnt the right method!


    It was his good fortune that wewereable to save him twice. However, from his suicidal behavior this time, it seemed the evil spirit couldnt wait anymore. He wanted to drown the poor man!


    Before we found thespirit, we wouldnt let Zhang Henshui leave the house alone. Otherwise, no one could ensure that he would be all right.


    I hurriedly untied the nylon ropesfromZhang Henshuis legs and used the method my grandpa had taught me to close his chest acupointstoblock the water outside. Then, I started to press on his chest.


    After five or six minutes, Zhang Henshui opened his eyes and vomited water. When he got up, he got on his knees and begged us to save him. Then, while sobbing, he told us what had happened.


    I could guess it without him telling me the story. He was bewitched again by the voice and tied himself to jump into the river. I pulled him up and brought him back to his house. I told him not to leave the house alone anymore.


    On the way back home, Zhang Henshui implored me.Please do not tell my wife about this.I dont want her to be worried about me.


    Iadmiredhim even more now. However, how could we hidesuch an incident? His wife was a smart woman. I knew shewouldbe able tosensesomething.


    Indeed, when we came back, Zhang Henshuis wife immediately hugged him and wept. When she finally calmed down, I asked her to take her daughter to the room to rest. As thespirithad made Zhang Henshui jump into the river twice, I knew it was only aimed at him. However,just to be safe, I gave Zhang Henshuis wife the Peach Soul Flower.


    Afterward, the threeof us stayed in the living room to finish eating. After dinner, we quietly waited.


    With the moon hung high in the sky, it was bright until midnight. Moreover, thisspiritwas different from therest. It appeared when it wanted tocontrolZhang Henshui, so we just needed to watch Zhang Henshui.


    However, I thought about it and knew that waiting wasnt the right solution. I took out thepass and quietly moved around. It seemed his ce was all right, but when I approached the toilet area, thepass hand suddenly lowered.


    We calledit a sinkingpoint,which meantthat aspiritwas involved in the case. Moreover, thatspirithadexperienceda tragic death or was someone whohaddied young. I put thepass away and wondered if Zhang Henshui had done something evil.


    The sinking-point type ofspirits shared the same characteristics. They didnt have strong malignant energy. They didnt want to meddle with living people, either. It was coincidental if they troubled the living, as they hoped that the person would be able to fulfill the wishes they couldnt do when they were alive. There werent manyspiritsofthat type that wanted to kill people. Thatwaswhy Isuspectedthat Zhang Henshui had done something to offendthatspirit.


    Ifthatwas the case, I needed to think about whether or not I should join thismess! Everything in this world hadacause-effectrtionship.Otherworldly merchantscouldnt break the rules.


    I asked Zhang Henshuiabout it.


    At first, he was bewildered. Then,he said resolutely, Upuntil now,I have never offendedanyoneso badly, let alonedosomething that makes my conscience guilty!Did you findanything? He looked scared.


    While he was talking, I looked him in the eyes.Itdidnt look like he was lying. Moreover, when he saw the manunderthe shade of the locust tree, hehurriedly wokehim up. From my point of view, he was a nice and honest viger.


    I decided to trust him. I took out thepass and checked again. I thought that the problemwasin his toilet because it was the ce where foul things liked to gather.


    I had lingered in the toilet for a long time but hadnt found anything. However, thepass hand was now shaking and pointing at the wall.


    It seemed the problemidwithin the wall. I frowned and asked Zhang Henshui to bring me two shovels. Li Mazi andZhang Henshuithen followed my order and dug the ce.


    While digging, Li Mazi shot me a nce. LittleBrother Zhang, its midnight, and were digging a toilet chamber. Ifthisspreadsout, people willugh at us until their teeth fall off!


    I didnt react to his jokeandcarefullywatchedthepass. I noticed thatasthey dug deeper, the handshookharder. Around ten minutester, Li Mazi screamed, Got it!


    Whats that? At first nce, I saw asoot-ckrock under the bricks of the wall. It was releasing rolling dark air.


    It was the source of the problem!


    I took the shovel from Li Mazis hand and dug harder. Eventually, we got the ck rock. It was around the size of a washing basin and weighed at least thirty pounds.


    Zhang Henshui dropped his jaw when he saw the rock. When we renovated the toilet, we used only bricks. Where did that rocke from?


    Someone wantsto kill you! I said with a cold face.


    Zhang Henshui, do you remember who built your toilet? I became doubtful. What kind of menacing peoplewould put somethinglike thisin someones toilet?


    Zhang Henshui remembered, then said,Its the newest renovating jobatmy house. At that time, I found three migrant workers to work on it.Ivealways beennice. How could I have offended those people? His voice sounded aggrieved.


    I didnt have time tofort him. My head was calcting fast. There were three workers, but only one of themittedtheevil deed.


    As we were in an urgent situation, it was toote to check all of them. I thought, then decided to use the SpiritSensingTechnique.


    The SpiritSensingTechnique would gather the Yin energy the rock emitted, and we could use that energy to track down theoriginof the rock. After that, we couldfindthe one that hadntedit here.


    I bit my middle finger and dropped a few drops of blood on the rock. Using a secret spell, I created a short connection with the rock through my blood. When I felt that mythoughtscould be sent to the rock, I used all of my power to call, Open!


    After my order, the blood on the rock scattered fast and appeared as an axis system. I hurried to walk around the rock. Soon, a small arrow appeared on the axis system.


    Comewith me!


    I hadnt expected the SpiritSensingTechniqueto bethat powerful. I called Li Mazi and Zhang Henshui. Then, I grabbed the Sirius Whipand ran inthe direction the arrow was pointing.


    To perform the SpiritSensingTechnique, one needstouseblood. After the techniquesucksall the blood, itwilllose effect. Thatwas why I had to carry the rock with me andmove quickly. When we reached a park in the suburbs, the bloodhaddried. I had to drip a few more drops on it.


    This time, the blood didnt createanarrow.The dropsformeda blood bead the size of a soya bean. It hovered above the rockandgentlyswayedas if it was looking for something


    Before we reacted, the blood bead swooshed and flew into the depths of the park. I was surprised at first. But then, I hurried to run after it.


    After around two or three hundred meters of running, two figures appeared in front of me.


    To not alert them, I stopped and hid. When they came closer, I recognized they were a man and a woman.


    Zhang Henshuis face changed when he saw theapproachingpeople. He rolled his eyes and wanted to jump out.


    Li Mazi helped me press him down. After the twoweregone, Zhang Henshui scoffed angrily. That mans one of the three migrant workers. Hes the one whowants to kill me!

 Chapter 592: The Water God of Miluo River, Qu Yuan

    Chapter 592: The Water God of Miluo River, Qu Yuan


    Dont rush. Lets see what they want to do. Iforted Zhang Henshui then hidinthe woods nearby. When I was certain that they didntnoticeus, we started to follow them.


    In the end, the couple stopped in front of a stone b. The two of them got on their knees and respectfully read something. I even heard theman saysomethingabouttaking revenge through his gritted teeth.


    Behind the b was a mound-like structure with half a brick circle in the front. It looked like a grave. I thought thattheirancestorwasburied here.


    After the two left, I ran to the grave to see. I was stunnedto see thewords on the stone b. It read, The Grave of the Three-n Senior Official of Chu.


    The Three-n Senior Official of Chu is the titleof the famouspoet,Qu Yuan, isnt it?


    So, this tomb is where Qu Yuan is buried?


    Qu Yuan wasafamous poetwho livedduring the Warring States period. He was the author of the most well-knownLiSao.The stories said that Qu Yuan had a great strategic mind. He offered King Huai of Chu a lot of bright ideas that would benefit the state anditspeople. However, King Huai of Chu was stupid enough to rejecttheideas. He even sent Qu Yuan into exile.Bearing a grudge, Qu Yuan hugged a rock and jumpedinto the MiluoRiver to end his life.


    The people mourned his deathand criedby the river. They usedtheir dragonboats to search for his body in the river. To protect his body, theythrewa lot of leaf-wrapped, glutinous rice cakes into the riveras offeringsto beg the fish not to eat his remains. It was also the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival.Every year, the Chinese would eat rice dumplings and have dragon boats race tomemorate Qu Yuan, the soul of the nation.


    After connecting the story of Qu Yuan hugging the rock and jumping into the river, I now confirmed that Zhang Henshui was pestered by Qu Yuansspirit!


    Qu Yuan was the only one whohad chosen to finish his life this way.


    However, Qu Yuan was famous for his patriotism and loyalty to the King. He was alsoan ambitious poet with integrity. Why would he trouble Zhang Henshui?


    Furthermore,theman andthewomanwereprobablyQu Yuans descendants. Why did they want toharm Zhang Henshui? Everything was a puzzle to me. I contemted and had a feeling that I could find the key to this puzzle from Zhang Henshui.


    Whenwe had returned to his house, I asked him about his family. Indeed, I found something abnormal!


    The males in his family all died of strange causes. None of themlived to be fiftyyears old. It had started from his great grandfather, who drowned in the basin he used to wash his face. Zhang Henshuis grandfather drowned in a flood, and Zhang Henshuis fatherdied by eatingtoxic mushroomsbythe riverbank.


    Zhang Henshui wasnow theonly male member in the family. He got married and had a daughter.Nothing strange had happened before this


    After listening to the story, I understood that Qu Yuan and Zhang Henshuis family must be archenemies. Thatwaswhy the honest Zhang Henshui was being pestered.


    However, I still hadnt figured out why Qu Yuan wanted to harm him. Li Mazi rubbed his chin. He thought about it, then asked,Should we try waiting for him toe to us?


    We can try. I nodded in agreement.


    However, passively waiting wasnt as good as revealingaw to entice the other party. At least, we would have the upper hand by doing so.


    With that n, the next morning, Zhang Henshui called the three workers he had hiredand toldthem that the wall of his toilet room was cracked. He wanted them toe and fix it.


    In the afternoon, the three migrant workers came again. The man that wanted to kill Zhang Henshui worked enthusiastically. Looking at his honest face, Iwould have beenstunned if I hadnt known the circumstances.


    To give him more chancesto do his evildeed, I asked Zhang Henshui to stay in his room while Ihidon the roof to observe.


    Theworker always behaved well. He didnt do anything strange. After they fixed the toiletand were about to leave, hegaveZhang Henshui a cold nce.


    His nce told me that he was confidentthat Zhang Henshui woulddie. However, I couldnt see where the problemwas.


    When nightfall came, Idistinctlyfeltastrange atmospherefromthe courtyard. I became more anxious. I took out the Universal Bracelet from my bag and asked Zhang Henshui to put it on his wrist.


    The Universal Bracelet was made of a red rope that chained forty-nine Five Emperor coins. There was no question about the power of the Five Emperor coins. The red string was fromarope that tied joss sticksin abig pagoda and was soaked in ck dog blood for three days. Together, the coins and the stringformeda sharp weapon.


    Sincethat migrant worker left with confidence, Zhang Henshui must be in grave danger. At least the Universal Bracelet could save his life.


    Sincewe didnt know what kind of trick the other party wouldperform, we had to wait in the house. When theskyturned dark, the temperature of the room dropped sharply. I felt like I was in a fridge.


    Li Mazi and Zhang Henshui shivered in the cold. Theirteeth ttered. I rubbed my hands together to feel warmer, then peered through the slit of the door. The courtyard outside was hazy white. It seemedwe were shrouded in a thick fog. I hadnt expected the Yin energy to be this thick. For the time being, I felt flustered.


    Suddenly, I heardanoise outside. It sounded like someone was crying, but sometimes, it was like someone wasughing crazily. The noise was both distinctive and distant,which gavepeople astrangefeeling.


    It seemed that whatever the migrant worker had done this morning started to work. However, I still hadnt figured out what he had done, even thoughI had been on the roof and kept my eyes on him the entire time.


    Soon, I solved the problem!


    Zhang Henshui had prepared all the materials to fix his toilet room, but the workers brought in the paint! That man must have put somethinginthe paint.


    I became concerned. However, it was no use to be worried now. At the same time, I contemted that Qu Yuan alonewouldnt be able tocreatesuch a scene. I thought they had used some sort of magic illusion, too.


    Fortunately, after the trip to Japan, I had learned from experience. I knew how powerful magicillusions could be. I had started to keephuo xiangperfume, also known asKorean mint perfume,with me.


    People knew that huo xiang in boiled water couldrelievefever and refresh the spirit. The huo xiang perfume was the essence of the flowermixedwith ashes from joss sticks and the urine from a little boy. With these ingredients, itwasa useful tool to deal with magic illusions!


    I smeared a drop of perfume on my forehead. I could feel the liquid seep into my skinand soon, my body heated up. I didnt feel cold anymore.When I lifted my head to check the yard again, the thick fog was gone. I then gave Li Mazi and Zhang Henshui a drop of the special perfume too. Afterward, I folded a paper crane.


    Although I had temporarily broken the magic illusion, it was just atemporarymeasure. To track him down, I had to use the paper crane. Afterwriting Zhang Henshuis birthday on it and feeding it a few drops of blood, I read the spell. The paper crane slowly flew up.


    I had expected that the other party would be right out there and that the paper crane would return to me soon. However, I got nothing even after a long time. The paper crane hadnte back. Li Mazi knew what I was doingand askedanxiously,LittleBrother Zhang, do you know if heishere or not?


    I shook my head.I cant say anything.


    Rightatthis moment, a bird screech echoed in my head. It meant the other party had found my paper crane.


    I didnt dare to linger. With the Sirius Whip in my hand, I dashedinthe direction of the birdsscreech. When I reached the vige entrance,where thelush locust tree grew, I saw the migrant worker.


    He didnt look surprisedto seeus. It meant he had known about me and Li Mazi beforehand. He sneeredand assessedus. His facial featurestwistedtogether.


    I took a step forwardand shouted,Why have you tried to take Zhang Henshuis life?


    None of Zhang Yis descendants should stay alive. They all have to die. Hahaha The manughed crazily then ran away.


    I was surprisedand triedto search for informationaboutthe name Zhang Yi in my head.

 Chapter 593: The Water Ghost Jade Flute

    Chapter 593: The Water Ghost Jade Flute


    Soon, I remembered Zhang Yi. He was a famous politician during the Warring States period. When the States of Chu and Qi joined forces to deal with the State of Qin, the King of Qin sent Zhang Yi to try tobreakthe alliance between Chu and Qi.


    Zhang Yi was a smart person. At first, he bought a few important officials of King Huai of Chu. Then, he enticed King Huai of Chu by cedingsomnd to him.


    Soon, King Huai of Chu agreed tobreakthe alliance with the State of Qi. Within one day, hedemolished the alliance that Qu Yuan had spent yearsbuilding.


    After that, when King Huai of Chulearnedthat he was tricked by Zhang Yi, he turned his embarrassment into anger. He dered war against the State of Qin! Qu Yuan knew it wasnt good for the State of Chu to start a war now. He immediately talked to King Huai of Chu, which resulted in his exile. With a grudge, he hugged a rock and jumped into the rivertomitsuicide. Peopleter gave him the posthumous title as the Water God of Miluo River.


    It was no wonder the males in Zhang Henshuis family all died in the water.Therewas such a great grudge between the two families. However,althoughI understood andsympathized with QuYuan, I didnt agree with his extrememethods!


    At the same time, I felt lost. I hadnt expected that a famous sage like him, whose name had beenpassed downthrough generations,wouldnt be able toescape the grudge and resentmentofthis mortal world


    I suddenly pulled myself together to chase after him. However, the other party had left quite a long time ago. I was angryand shoutedat Li Mazi.Whydidn''t youchase after him?!


    He didnt talk as he was looking at the big locust tree with Zhang Henshui. Both of themdropped theirjaws in surprise. I turned to look at the tree with doubt.I was stunned to seethe tree releasing waves of rolling ck mist.


    At the same time, the temperature dropped again.Gusts ofcoldwind wereing. We saw wandering ghosts congregating from all directions!


    Some had their eyes popped out,while othersstuck outtheir long tongues. Many had swelling, white faces. Most of them wore dripping, ancient clothes. They looked likeahorde of drowning ghosts. They hoveredandspun above our heads. They cried, thenughed.


    A momentter, the migrant worker returned with a green jade flute. As soon as he blew the flute, the ghosts received the order and swarmed toward us at the same time.


    I didnt think that the situation would be this dangerous so fast. I had to defend with the Sirius Whip. After each whip, Iwas able toclear arge number of ghosts. However, this horde of ghosts seemed to be endless. I would never be able to clear them all.


    Standing next to me, Li Mazi opened the Yin and Yang Umbre. After having used it many times, Li Mazi now knew the basics to control the Yin and Yang Umbre. While using the umbre to attack the ghosts, he wasalsoable to protect himself and Zhang Henshui.


    I suddenly blushedand felt thatmy disciple had finally grown up, catching up to the master. Anyway,whilehe was fighting hard on the other side, he shared the pressure I had to bear.


    After the magic power of the Sirius Whip was drained, I screamed and whippedonst time whilereciting aspell to beckon spirits.


    This time, Lu Dongbin didnt tease me. As soon as I read the spell, I felt my body much lighter and my arms much stronger.While screaming, I jumped and swept off all the spirits!


    The migrant worker seemed to sense something. He put the jade flute away and hidinthe woods.


    I asked Lu Dongbin to take metohim. However, theImmortal started to talk with hisdeepand maic voice. Youneed to find the onewhotied the bell to untie it. The cause-effectrtionship in the mortal world should be solved by the mortals themselves. Icant help you.


    After he said that, my body felt heavier. The Sirius Whip in my hand became soft again. I cursed under my breathand thoughtthat this great Immortal wasnt reliable at all. He left as soon as he finished!


    Li Mazi blinked his small eyesand asked,Little Brother Zhang, should we go after him?


    He wasstilldazed by my intimidating move when Lu Dongbin controlled my body.


    I turned and looked at the evil-looking biglocusttree. Biting my lower lip, Imade up my mind. If we let him go this time, it will be harder to catch him the next time!


    Then, I took the leadand ranafter the other party.


    Not long afterward, we saw the migrant worker. He was walking in the woods as though he hadnt expected that we would chase after him.


    Anyway,hisstrong point wasmagic illusions.SinceLu Dongbin had helped me solve thatenormous horde of water ghosts, there shouldnt be anything dangerous now. I didnt want to hide. I screamed then rushed toward him.


    The worker heard me. He turned, and his face changed drastically before he desperately jumped into the bushes.


    Since we had spent a lot of energy to deal with the water ghosts, we couldnt shorten the distancebetweenus. Fortunately, we were still able to see his figure ahead of us.


    Gradually, a in farmyard appearedin my field of vision. The man directly entered the house and didnt even lock the door.He might have thoughtit was useless todo so.


    When I came to the farmyard, I was surprisedto seethat it was just a paper model with reed poles and colored papersheets. A dozen paper dollsstoodinside the yard. Those paper dolls looked animated. They looked like real humansfroma distance.


    I carefully assessed thece. The houseshouldnt have a back door. To prevent the otherparty from usingmagic illusion again, I smeared the huo xiang perfume one more time. Then, Ienteredthe house first.


    Thecewas empty; noone was in there.


    Could he be invisible? mumbled Li Mazi,who was feeling puzzled.


    Then, we heard the manughing outside. Hahaha, youll alldietoday!


    Crap, were trapped! I was surprised when I heard his voice.


    If that fellowwasable to create illusions, the worker we justsawmighthave been anillusion. It wasnt his real body that lured us into this farmyard!


    I had a bad premonition. Pulling Li Mazi and Zhang Henshui, I wanted to run outside.However, when we got to the yard, all the paper dolls in the yard were revived.


    To be exact, they werent paper dolls. They were corpses! More than tenzombieswere standing upright in the yard.Athick, white mist lingered overthem. Although I was more than ten meters away from them, I still felt the cold air they were emitting.


    Standing behind thezombieswas a woman wearing a ck,silk veil. I recognized her. She wasthe womanwhohad worshipped Qu Yuan with the migrant worker earlier.The migrant worker was standing next to her,coldly looking at me.


    The woman was holding somethingthat lookedlike a rough. As soon as she started to shakeit, thezombiesstarted to hop.They uniformly turned and jumped toward us!


    WhenLi Mazi looked at the green-facedzombieswith long fangs, hisheroicspiritvanished instantly. He hurried to hide behind me. With a dark face, I took out a spirit talisman and palmed it on the head of the nearestzombie.


    Although my spirit talisman wasntaspecial one used to subduezombies, I believed it couldhold it backfor a while. Unexpectedly, thezombiehalted for a few seconds before my yellow talisman turned ck and shattered into pieces!


    At the moment the spirit talisman was sted, all thezombiesbecame angry. They raised their hands with long fingernailsand aimedat us.


    I took a step back and closed the door of the house. I then hurriedly moved all the furniture to block the door.


    In the meantime, the horde ofzombiesstarted to bangonthe door!

 Chapter 594: Loyalty and Patriotism

    Chapter 594: Loyalty and Patriotism


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Every time the door banged, my heart throbbed. The Sirius Whip was useless now, and I wasnt sure if the Yin and Yang Umbre could deal with thosezombies. Even if it worked, it couldnt protect the three of us.Furthermore, the despicable couple was waiting for us outside.


    At thismoment, I heardSenior Shus voice. Grandson, youre about to die again?


    Cant you seewhat time is it? You still have the mood to tease me! I answered instinctively. However, Isoon understood thatSenior Shuwashere. Weweresaved!


    Excitedly, I looked around the room and saw a big,grey rat inonecorner. It wasSenior Shus life-bound rat.


    It seemed the despicable old man was around.


    Brother rat, please tell the old man that I canthold them back anymore. In this dangerous situation, Iwasnt inthe right mind to care about my words. It was also the first time I thought thisfat, old rat looked so cute.


    The rat squeaked twice and crawled intoarat hole. Then, I saw a smallsilver bell on its tail.


    IfSenior Shuhadusedhis life-bound rat tosendme this bell,the item would definitely help me. I carefullyremovedthe bellfromthe rats tail and observed it. Even if thislittle treasurewaspowerful, I didnt want to be caught unprepared.


    Fortunately, I had spent a lot of timelearningabout otherworldly items with my grandpa when I was young. Soon, I recognized that this bell was theIllusory Mind Bell.


    TheIllusory Mind Bellcould control peoples minds.A personwith a dark heart wouldfe head-splitting painwhilelistening to the bell, while the ones with a clearconsciencewould feel strangelyfortable. Moreover, it couldexpel evil spiritsand invite good fortune.


    With this thought, I sat down cross-legged and started to read the Sacred Text of Daoism. I needed to calm my mind.


    Then, with a loud bang, the door sprang open. Thezombiehad seeded iingin.Li Mazi and Zhang Henshui wereblocking themwith sticks. I knew we couldnt waitany longer. I got up and slowly jingled the bell.


    Ding ding ding!


    When thezombiesheard the bell jingle, they halted.Theylookedbewildered. Then, they dropped theirarms and startedlookinglike paper dolls again.


    Follow closely behind me, I shouted. Whenwe get to the yard, Li Mazi, takeBrother Zhangand flee!


    Then, I ran out of the house.


    TheIllusory Mind Bellprobablywouldntwork on that man since he had earned his living with magic illusion.


    Indeed, when I got out of the house,thezombieswere standing still. The woman wearing the ck silk veil had slumped on the ground, butshe still heldthe cotton yarntightly.


    However, the migrant worker was nowhere to be seen!


    It seemed theIllusory Mind Bellwas ineffectiveagainsthim. Idecided to ignore himand asked Li Mazi to pick up the cotton yarn.


    If Iwasnta nice person, I would haveppedyou a hundred times! Li Mazi scolded the woman, who wassitting helplessly on the ground. He picked up the and tried to break it. However, after a long time, the wasstill intact. Meanwhile,Li Mazi had to gasp for his breath.


    Its impossible to tear it, you idiot! I had started to doubt Li Mazis intelligent quotient. I gavehim theIllusory Mind Bell,then received the to check it.


    This was ancient. From the symbols carved on the handle,it waspossibly the birdsealfrom the State of Chu.


    If itwasa genuine itemthat datedback from the Chu era,it would be priceless even though it was just a broken. However,becauseit could control thosezombies, I had to grit my teeth and destroy it. I tookout the lighter to burn the into ashes!


    While I was burning the, the veiled woman started to struggle angrily. She wanted to stop me. Li Mazi immediately jingled the bell,which gaveher nochanceto move.


    Indeed, after the was burned, thezombiessuddenly ignited and burned. From the popping sounds emitting from them, I found something strange. I came to check and found that all thezombieswere paper dolls.


    It turned out that our original guess was correct. Ithen concluded thatthose drowned ghosts hadpossessedthe dolls.


    When the waspletely burned down, the veiled womans eyes rolled to the back of her headas she lostconsciousness. I hurriedly attached a spirit talisman to her body to save her, then asked Zhang Henshui and Li Mazi to tie her up.


    After those paper dolls were burned, I was afraid that the man would cast his magic illusionon meagain. However, he didnt return.


    When wereachedthe vige and passed by the old locust tree, someone suddenly blindfolded me. I was startled at first. Then,I became excited.Youdamnold man, where have you beentely?


    Kiddo, watch yourmouth! Call me grandpa!Senior Shulet go of me and kicked mybutt.


    I sniggered and rubbed my hands. Grandpa, thank you so much.


    Youre finally speaking the humanguage!Senior Shustroked hismustache. When I passed by this vige, I felt something was wrong, so I sent my life-bound rat to scout around. It happened to see you guys trapped by the paper dolls. As such, I askeditto give you theIllusory Mind Bell.


    Oh,theres somethingwondrousin our fates, grandpa! Whiletteringhim, I discreetly put theIllusory Mind Bellinto my pocket.This old man had so many treasures; it was good if I could take some from him for free.


    He spotted me. Then, he and Istarted pullingback and forth like two kidspetingfora toy. In the end, with Li Mazis support, I sessfully subduedSenior Shu.


    You rascals!Had Iknownearlier, I would have ignored you. I would have let that guy drown both of you!


    Iterlearnedthat the migrant workerwas forced to let us go.SinceSenior Shuwas watchinghis moves, he was scaredand ranaway.


    Senior Shuhad nned to departafterI was saved. However, when helearnedthat thespiritwehadencounteredwas the famous Qu Yuan, he decided to stay and help this great patriot.


    The woman in the ck veil woke up the next day.Her eyes no longer showed her grudge. It was reced by worry. It was rareforSenior Shuto use hissenior tone of voice to teach someone. Little girl, tell me whats going on. Perhaps I can helphim.


    Of course,Senior Shuwas talking aboutQu Yuan.


    After the veiled woman listened to him, she pondered for a while then said, I used to have a happy marriage. That migrant worker is my husband. One day, we went to a park. When we came home, we both had a strange dream of a man wearing a long robe. However, he only had half of his head left. The other half was made of gold. It sparkled dazzlingly.We dreamed about him all the time. Each time, he would cry and tell us how aggrieved he was, how unwilling he was. Thats how Idiscovered thatthe person wewere dreamingaboutwas Qu Yuan.


    It turned out that after Qu Yuan jumped into the river with the rock, the fellows around tried to save him. To protect his body from the fish and shrimps, they even threw cooked rice into the river.


    However, theyretrievedhis body only after three days. By that time, halfof his head was gnawed by the fish. Qu Yuans daughter spent the rest of her lifemaking the otherhalf of his headout ofgold.People admiredhisfilial daughter. They praised her with the saying, Nine sons couldnt bury their father, but one daughter could makehim agolden head.


    When King Chu Xiang heard about this story, he was embarrassed. His embarrassmentthenturned into anger. He wanted to unearth Qu Yuan. Qu Yuans daughter was afraid that her father would be troubled while resting. She went to a high mountain and used a sieve mesh gauze to shake the sand and dust to create a few mounds.


    Whileshe wearily dozed off, shedreamed ofan old mangettingout from the ground. The old man then knocked his staff on the ground eleven times. Afterward, eleven mounds that looked exactly like Qu Yuans grave mound appeared. When King Chu Xiang sent his men to unearth Qu Yuan, they couldnt figure out which wasthereal tomb


    Inanotherworld, you didnt know that you are Qu Yuans descendant. Did Qu Yuanappearin your dream to ask you to take revenge for him? I caught thekeyword.


    The woman shook her head. No, he didnt ask us to take revenge for him. He just wanted his body to be relocated to the public cemetery of the State of Chu.


    It was thecouple that wanted to take revenge for their ancestors,sothey took the initiative to harm Zhang Yis descendant, which happened to be Zhang Henshui.


    If you repay a grudge with a grudge, when will it end? Why do you and your husband have to live in difficulty like this?


    Senior Shusighed. I shook my head, but there was still another question on my mind.Why didQu Yuanrequestto have his remains buriedat the State of Chus public cemetery?


    Later on, King Huai of Chus grandsongavejustice back to Qu Yuan. He built a cenotaph. Itswhere Qu Yuans old clothes and relics are buried. Its in the park in the suburbs, exined the woman.


    I got the clue now. Is the biglocusttree where Qu Yuan was buried?


    Yes,thats correct. She nodded.


    I sighed emotionally. Although Qu Yuanwasexiled by King Huai of Chu, even after he died,he stilldidnt give up onhis courtiers responsibility. He was worthy of receiving peoples admiration.


    In the end,Senior Shuand I spent five million renminbi to invite the best construction team to unearth Qu Yuans remains from underneath the old locust tree. We then buried him in the Chu States cemetery with the ck rock he hadcarriedwith him to the river. Moreover, we decorated the in-looking parkand gaveit a better look.


    After the relocating ceremony was done, I thought,When Qu Yuansspiritfacesthe ck rock, hewontfeel resentful or reluctant, right? Hewillfeel infinitely proud.


    Thatrock was the witnessofhis loyalty. Ithadnt worn out even after several thousand years.


    After this case was done, Li Mazi and Ididnt eptany other cases for a while. We traveled across the country, from North to South, trying to find a modern version of Qu Yuan.


    This person must be loyal and patriotic.


    This person must be principled and incorruptible. This person must be honest and tell no lies.


    However,inthe end, we didnt find anyone. I askedSenior Shu, Whycouldn''twe findsuchone person?


    He pondered for a long time then asked, These days, do people stillhavethe concept ofcountryin their heads?


    I suddenlyfelt like crying!

 Chapter 595: The Swallow Nest in the Front Eaves

    Chapter 595: The Swallow Nest in the Front Eaves


    After helping Qu Yuans spirit ascend,I wasconfusedfor a long time. I didnt see any reason that could cheer me up. WhenSenior Shusawthat I wasdispirited, he asked me totravelwith him.


    It had been a long time since I had gone out and dealt with otherworldlyitemswith him. I agreed, with the thought that I would seize the chance to dig one or two more magic tools from him


    Senior Shuhadnt nned to bring Li Mazi. However, that rascal was a smartass. He knew there would be big rewards whentravelingwithSenior Shu.He stubbornlyinsistedon apanyingus. Even the despicableSenior Shuhad to yield.


    Even though we had workedtogether efficiently, when Li Mazi and I went out seeking a case, most of the time, we woulde home empty-handed. Unexpectedly, after three days oftravelingwithSenior Shu, we got a new case!


    The client was from Suzhou.Senior Shusaid that our client was a woman. Li Mazis spiritboosted immediately. In adespicablevoice, he said,Whatdoes she look like? Is she married?


    Whydoes it matter to you if she has a husband or not? Do you want me to tell Ru Xue to beat you up?


    Senior Shupalmed Li Mazis head. Li Mazi gingerly retracted his neck and didnt dare to talk again.


    We had an appointment with the client the next day in a coffee shop in Suzhou. When we got there, the client was waiting for us. She politely shook our hands and weed us.


    Good, good, goodLi Mazi almost drooled when he shook her hand. If it wereunderdifferentcircumstances, I would have kicked him. However, his reaction also proved that the womans appearance was extraordinary.


    She was around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, and she looked like the movie star,Zhao Liying. She belonged to the type of standard beauty, especially with her prominent, deep cleavage. However, her brows mmed together,which gavetheimpressionthatsomethingwasweighing on her mind.


    After we alltooka seat, she started to introduce herself. I am Li Qiushu, a native of Suzhou. After graduating, I have been promoting and selling cosmetics via WeChat with my bestie. Weve umted a huge sum already.


    I felt funnyand thoughtthat Li Qiushu was giving us a thorough introduction about herself.Thiswasnt a match-making meeting, though.


    My bestie is called Zhang Yan. Weve been best friends since university. Weveeatenand slept together. After graduating, we tried our best efforts to earn money. We didnt thinkaboutthe hardships, even when we had to sleep in someones basement. Our rtionshipdidnt change after we became richer. However, these days, I dont knowwhy, but Zhang Yan, she


    Li Qiushus eyes turned red. She knew that she was losing herself to her emotions. She quickly wiped her eyes with a tissue then continued the story.


    It turned out her bestie Zhang Yan had bequitemaliciousthese days. She had changed from caring to daring. She challenged andpeted against Li Qiushuon everything!


    At first, Li Qiushu didnt mindit.They hadpeted against and challenged one another for many yearsto help each othersprogress. However, one day, they werediscussing the details of a contractwith a big customer. Whenit came to the part where theyhad tosign the contract, Li Qiushu naturally signed first,as she had always done. Zhang Yan suddenly tore the contract with the reason that she didnt want her name to be ced after Li Qiushus name.


    At that time, Li Qiushu felt so aggrieved. However, she didnt say anythingafterconsidering their years of sisterhood. But then, after that day, Zhang Yanremainedhostiletowardher. She evendeliberatelyfabricated stories about her toharm her.


    Even so, Li Qiushu treasured theirfriendship a lot. She decided to call Zhang Yans husband. After that, she learned that Zhang Yan didnt just treat her that way. She had treated everybody with hostility and apetitive attitude. Even when she was in her own home, shesawthe entire worldasher enemy.


    Li Qiushu talked to Zhang Yans husband for a while and they both agreed that it was absurd and impossibleforZhang Yanto have changedgreatly in just a short time without a known reason. They guessed she was bewitched by somethingevil.


    Li Qiushu happened to hear aboutSenior Shuwhile having dinner with a customer. Shedecidedto use a bigsumto inviteSenior Shuto help her.


    After listening to her story, I knew that Zhang Yan had probably provoked something foul. I turned tolook atSenior Shus eyes. He gave me a faint nod as his answer.


    It seemed he wanted me to solve this. He would be watching and giving me support. I didnt talk nonsenseand askedLi Qiushu totakeus to Zhang Yans house tohavea look.


    Li Qiushu put on a reluctant face. Zhang Yan has be very cautious. It seems shes got persecutory delusions. Anyway, I can ask Zhang Yans husband to meet with us. Perhaps we can get some clues from him.


    Yeah, could you check if he has time to meet up now? I agreed with her. Anyway, they were a married couple that ate and slept together. Zhang Yans husband should know something.


    Then, Li Qiushu called Zhang Yans husband. His name was Feng Yuanzheng. When Feng Yuanzheng knew that we were waiting for him, he was excited and told Li Qiushu that he woulde right away. However, the call had ended quite a long time ago, but he hadnt shown up yet. Senior Shus face slowly turned dark.


    I also thought he wasnt polite at all, making the four of us waiting for him here. If we didnt consider Li Qiushus sincerity, we would have left already!


    We had waited for one more hour when we finally saw a man wobble into the coffee shop. He looked dirty. He even had dabs of blood on his body. At first nce, he looked like a beggar. Li Mazi told him, Please sit far from us and have this dish.


    Qiushu, sister, its me. Im Feng Yuanzheng!


    The man didnt receive the dish but directly sat next to Li Qiushu. Li Qiushu finally recognized him. What happened to you? Why are you dressed like this?


    Argh, this Feng Yuanzheng stuttered for a while. In the end, he gritted his teeth. After I hung up the call, I was prepared to go out. But then, Yan checked my phone and used me of having an affair with you. She locked me in the room. As she didnt let me go, I had to jump through the window from the second floor


    Ptui! Li Mazi directly spat out his coffee.


    I rolled my eyes at him then talked to Feng Yuanzheng. Mr. Feng, please tell us about your wifes strange behaviors.


    Perhaps Feng Yuanzheng had already arranged his words on the way here. He started to tell us an orderly story. But what he told us wasnt much different from what we had heard from Li Qiushu. Those were just the details on the surface. Senior Shu couldnt wait anymore. He interrupted the mans ranting and asked with a low voice, Has anything strange happened in your family these days? Did you buy a strange antique or renovate your house?


    Strange situation? Strange things have happened around Yan, but When he came to this part, Feng Yuanzhengs eyes sparkled. He patted his head. Yeah, I remember now. After Yan came home from her mothers ce, she turned into that horrible person!


    When I heard that, my spirit was boosted. Please tell us in detail.


    Feng Yuanzheng nodded. He thought then said, I remember it was autumn. Zhang Yan went to her mothers vige to help harvest the rice. Before she left, she was fine, but when she returned, she had changedpletely.


    Since Zhang Yans change in attitude wasnt improving, Feng Yuanzheng didnt tell her parents. However, as things hade to this, we couldnt hide it anymore. I asked him to take us to Zhang Yans hometown to see.


    Senior Shu didnt like to travel by car much. He found a hostel to rest while the four of us drove away. At around noon, we arrived in Zhang Yans hometown.


    Her parents were honest and friendly farmers. They treated us well with a table of various foods for lunch. After lunch, Feng Yuanzheng took a lot of time to prepare himself before telling his inws about Zhang Yans change. After talking, he asked carefully, Father, mother, did Yan touch something she shouldnt have while she was here?


    Oh my God Did our little Yan touch something foul?! Zhang Yans mother was a typical countryside woman. When she heard that, she burst out crying.


    Meanwhile, Zhang Yans father wore a stern face and smoked two cigarettes. After a while, he waved at us. Come with me.


    We followed him and walked for around five minutes. We reached a tattered farmhouse outside the courtyard. The farmhouse was fenced, and the roof was covered with wormwood. There were so many cracks on the walls. It seemed that no one lived here.


    Zhang Yans father took us to the house and exined. It turned out this ce was where Zhang Yans grandparents had lived when they were alive. Little Zhang Yan loved to y and stay with her grandparents in this house.


    After her grandparents passed away and Zhang Yan married, she moved to the city. However, whenever she returned to her hometown, she woulde and clean this house. She hadnt forgotten her experiences here.


    Thest time they harvested the autumn crop, Zhang Yan hade back to help. She also went to clean this house and found a swallow nest under the eaves of the roof.


    A swallow nest in the front eaves of the house was always an auspicious sign. Zhang Yan was happy and told this to her parents. Her father was also delighted. Zhang Yan and her father brought the bamboodder to the old house to watch the swallow nest. However, they were surprised when they found a fist-sized, iron swallow inside the nest. They didnt know where the thing hade from.


    The iron swallow was realistic; it was well-carved and chiseled from the eyes to every single feather. Zhang Yan liked it at first nce. Moreover, as her name also meant Swallow, she decided to take the iron swallow with her.


    An iron swallow that came out of nowhere... That isnt normal. Uncle, how could you let her take it away like that? I sighed.


    Mr. Zhang lowered his head and med himself.


    I knew the iron swallow couldnt have just appeared out of thin air. Someone had done that. Uncle, did you or your wife offend someone or do something taboo?

 Chapter 596: The Bewitching Female Ghost

    Chapter 596: The Bewitching Female Ghost


    Before Mr. Zhang could answer, Feng Yuanzheng resolutely shook his head.


    My inws are honest and kind farmers. They have lived their liveswithoutoffendingor provokinganybody.They couldnt possibly haveanydisputeswith other people


    After he said that, I kept silent. Ihad knownhim for a short time, but I alsofelt that he was kind and honest. He wasnt the type of person who would hold a grudge against others.


    Anyway, it was good that we knew where Zhang Yan had gotten the iron swallow from. If weobtainedthe swallow, we could make another step in our investigation!


    As we had only gotten this clue from her hometown, we bid farewell to her parents and left.Before leaving, I told Mr. Zhang, Mr. Zhang, please keep an eye on that farmhouse. If someone has done this to your family, I think that personwillshow up again.


    On the drive back, Li Qiushu asked skeptically, Yuanzheng, Yanreturned homequite a long time ago, and yet you have never seen the iron swallow?


    It was also the question I wanted to ask. When Mr. Zhang mentioned the iron swallow, Feng Yuanzheng looked bewildered.It wasthe first time he had heard about that item.


    Feng Yuanzheng looked embarrassed.With a blush on his face, he said, Actually, ever since Zhang Yan came home, we havent slept together. Moreover, she doesntletmeenter our bedroom. Every day, except for meals, shedoesntleavethebedroom.


    Iwas surprised to hearthat Feng Yuanzheng had been treated so coldly. But then, it was enough to prove that he loved Zhang Yan.


    I patted his shoulder. Brother, dont worry. I will make Zhang Yan normal again!


    When we returned to the city, it was twilight. I calledSenior Shuto go out for dinner. At the same time, I asked Feng Yuanzheng to call Zhang Yan.


    Zhang Yan didnt want to join us. Feng Yuanzheng had to trick her by saying that he had seen a woman who was more beautiful than her. Zhang Yan thundered immediately. She asked for the address,then curtly hung up.


    Wewaitedfor heras we atedinner. Around twenty minutester, Li Qiushu put on a wry smile. Here shees.


    Weallturned to the door. A gorgeously dressed woman stormed inand approachedus. Before she arrived,we could hear herthundering voice. Feng Yuanzheng! Tell me, wheres thatvixen? I want to seewhatshe looks like!


    Feng Yuanzheng reacted fast. He pulled Zhang Yan to sit next to him. She went out for a while. Shell be back soon.


    Hmph! Zhang Yan snorted then sat down. She ignored us and directly dug in the food.Itlooked like she hadnt eaten anything delicious for quite a long time.


    Senior Shuhad filled his stomachearlier, so he didnt even lift his head. He just focusedon his WeChat. Perhaps he was teasingsome younggirl.


    Li Mazi frownedas he wantedto say something. I hurried to stop him, then observed the woman.


    Zhang Yan wasnt as sweetandbeautiful as Li Qiushu, but she had the auraof an iconic movie star, and her eyes were especially simr to Brigitte Lins, a movie star from Hong Kong.


    At this time, shehaddark circles under her eyes. It seemedshe hadnt slept well these days.


    The light in this dining room wassobright that I could hardlyseeanything else. Iquietlysmeared two drops of ox tears on my eyelids.Immediately,Isaw a purplish-ck mass of air swirling above Zhang Yans head.


    The ck air represented Yin energy, while the purpleairrepresented immortal energy.Furthermore, the purple-ck air was the energy usually emitted by great evil spirits or fiends. I hadneverexpected that the swallowwould bethispowerful. I couldnt help but sendSenior Shua nce.


    Senior Shuacted as if he was yingonhis phone. Yet, he was kicking my leg under the table. Isoonnoticedthe hatred piercing through me!


    Zhang Yan was looking at me with deep hostility in her eyes. However, she resumed her normal countenance in justtheblink of an eye. Ithought I was seeing anillusion.


    Zhang Yan filled her stomachbefore givingFeng Yuanzheng a cold nce. She asked, What are these people doing here?


    They are my friends! Feng Yuanzheng lowered his voice then discreetly sent me a nce. I gave him a nod.


    He looked as though he was given an amnesty. My beloved wife, we should go home if we are full.


    Zhang Yan shook her headand thunderedagain. I wont leave before I see thatwitch! If that woman isnt as beautiful as I am, Ill strip her right away!


    Theresno such woman Li Qiushu talked gingerly. Your husband just wanted tohave dinnerwith you.


    Zhang Yan looked so angry that her hair almost rose. She pped Feng Yuanzhengand yelledat his face. Dontbefriend peoplelike them!


    Zhang Yan left without giving us a second look. Li Mazi and I gave Feng Yuanzheng an understanding look. Feng Yuanzhengworea wry smileand tookarge gulp of wine. When Zhang Yan finally disappeared from our sights, he asked, Did you find anything?


    Before I had a chance to say anything,Senior Shusaid with a stern face, Shespletely bewitched by the otherworldly item. We cant use softmethodswith her. We have to steal the iron swallow when shes not home!


    Feng Yuanzheng was a frank man. Tomorrow, I will find a way to bring her out of the house. You guys should take action!


    I nodded and found a hotel nearby to stay in. Li Mazi,Senior Shu, and Istayed inseparate rooms. After taking a shower, I got in bed and slept right away.After tossing around for the whole day, I was really tired.


    While sleeping, I vaguelysmelled the scentof a woman. It was faint. In the back of my head, I thought itwas because I wasmissing Yin Xinyue. I rolled to one side and slept.


    However, thefaint aroma didnt disappear. It became thicker, and I felt the soft body of a woman pressing on me. Her silky skin touched mine. I started to feel hot. Eventually, I got up. I found thatI was the only personin theroom. There was no woman, or anyone else.


    I thought it was a dreamandwanted togoback to sleep. Unexpectedly, that feeling came again as soon as I closed my eyes.


    After a few times, I didnt feel sleepy anymore. I could feel something intheroom, but I couldnt see or touch it. It wasgiving mepressure, though! I didnt knowwhoshe was, so I decided to read the Sacred Text of Daoism.


    After readingthe text a few times, that strange feeling finally disappeared. I waited for a while. She didnteback. I exhaled in relief.At thismoment, I heard a loud bang from Li Mazis room.


    I was bewildered, but soon, I knew the situation wasnt right. I grabbed the Sirius Whip and theIllusoryMind Bell,rushingout.TheIllusoryMind Bell was rather small,soI wore itaroundmy wrist like an essory.


    When I got out of my room, I heard the bed squeak in Li Mazis room. Fortunately, he had left his window open. Otherwise, Iwouldnt have been able to hear themotion from his room.


    As we were upstairs,I didnt haveenough time togodownstairs and ask the staff to help me open the door. I felt lucky thatSenior Shuhadchosenthis hotel. It was just a small family homestay, and the doors here werent greatly secured.


    I took a step back and kicked the door with all of my strength. The door sprang open easily.


    I pulled myself together. Irushed into the roomand turnedon the light. Then, I saw Li Mazi naked on his bed. He was thrusting himself back and forth. From time to time, he crazily kissed the pillow. He acted as though he was makinglove with someone! However, I couldnt see what wascausingtrouble. I helplesslybit the tip of my tongue and spat blood on Li Mazis head.


    When the mix of saliva and blood hit Li Mazi, he convulsed as though hehad receivedan electric shock. At the same time, I caughtaburning smell in the air.


    Li Mazi shook for a while. Then, heidon the bed like a dead pig. Before I could ask him anything, the window in his room automatically opened. A strong gust of wind rushed outside through the windowalongwithawomans moaning sound.


    Damn it! I chased it to the window and punched the wall to vent out my anger. That thing had been right in this room, but I hadnt felt anything. Id been in this business for quite a long time, but it was the first time I had encountered this type of situation.


    I rubbed my face and locked the window. I also adhered a talisman onto it. Then, I went to the bed to turn Li Maziaround. He was as pale as a sheet of white paper.


    It seemedafemale ghost had charmed him, making himreleasehis essence. If I hadnte here, he would have beensucked dry. I immediately returned to my room to fetchsomeSecuring Essence Ointment.


    The Securing Essence Ointment was the ointment I had prepared with the recipe I found in my grandpas journal. It included sealtesticles,antlers from ayoung deer, andsheep kidneys. These ingredientshad the function of increasing peoples vigor! Many people wouldfeelseriouslysickafter being possessed by a ghost. From the modern medical point of view, the doctors would say that those peoplesimmunesystems had beenpromised, which allowed many hidden diseases to resurface. Thatwaswhy those peopleweremorelikely to getsick.

 Chapter 597: The True and the Fake Senior Shu

    Chapter 597: The True and the Fake Senior Shu


    When Ireturnedwith the ointment, I foundSenior Shuin Li Mazis room. His life-boundrat sat in a corner. It was looking at me with its twinkling eyes.


    WhenSenior Shusaw me, hewas fuming.You woke me up with your loud kick to the door!


    Then, he turned to help Li Mazi.


    Atthis moment, the life-bound rat crawled up to the bed and squeaked atSenior Shu.Senior Shuwas startled. His face paled in fright. He flusteredand screamed, Shoo this rat away!


    All right! My face darkened immediately. I nodded at him, then abruptlyshed with the Sirius Whip!


    This man wasntSenior Shu.Senior Shuhad always treatedhislife-bound rat even better thanhow he treatedhischildren. How could he be afraid of that fat-ass rat?


    The fakeSenior Shuscreeched. He turned into a green shadowand flewthrough the door.


    Everything had happened in justtheblink of an eye. When I got myself together, the green shadow hadalreadygone far enough. I gritted my teeth to chase after it, but I losttrackof itonthe porch.


    After gasping for my breath andcontrollingmy anger, I returned to the room. Surprisingly,Senior Shuwas there. He had already settled Li Mazi on the bed and was putting something intohismouth.


    Youbastard! EvenBuddhawould get angry after getting tricked again and again, let alone me, a hot-tempered, vigorous man! I couldnt stand it anymore. That thing had teased us twice! I aimed atSenior Shus napeand hit it hard!


    Senior Shuwasquickto grab the Sirius Whip. He pantedand fumed, Kiddo, what are you doing?!


    Wait, are you the realSenior Shu? I asked carefully.


    Little rascal, you dont even recognize your grandfather! What a fool you are! scoldedSenior Shu.


    I got the situation now. Ifthis man wasnt Senior Shu, he wouldnt have been able to grab the Sirius Whipwith his bare hands. Moreover, I noticed that his life-boundrat was sitting calmly on his shoulder.


    After Iconfirmedhis identity, I exhaled in relief. I told him what had happened.Senior Shugave me a slight nod and didnt say anything else; hecontinued to help Li Mazitakethe medicine. I then put the Securing Essence Ointment on the crown of his head.


    After everything was done, I was a little scaredand asked, Senior Shu, do you think its rted to the iron swallow?


    Senior Shufrowned. He thought for a while then nodded. His voice was low and worried. The three of us are here, but sheonly cameto the two of you. It means she isnt my match! I think well know soonenoughif its rted to the iron swallow.


    You mean, therewassomeone behind thisghost? I asked.


    Well know tomorrow. I need to sleep now.Senior Shuwaved at methenleft the room. I thought that thing wouldnt dare toe again. I checked around Li Mazis room, then returned to my room to sleep.


    Early the next morning, Li Mazi woke up. He looked much better thanst night.He gingerly asked, What happenedst night?


    After thinking about his X-rated scenest night, Iwanted to forget about it. However, as he had kept pestering me, I had to tell him the truth.


    Li Mazi took in a deep breath. In atremblingvoice, he said,Last night, I dreamt about Ru Xue and I doing, er, things.Didthat thingbewitchme?


    If that thing could impersonateSenior Shu, it wouldnt be a problem for it to transform into Ru Xues appearance to enchant Li Mazi.


    After confirming that he didnt betray Ru Xue, I wasntasangry as before. We went to wake upSenior Shuto have breakfast. Then, we drove to Feng Yuanzhengs neighborhood.


    It was a high-end neighborhood with good security. When the security guardsdiscoveredthat we didnt live there and saw thatno onehadeto pick us up at the entrance, they didnt allow us to enter the neighborhood. I had to call Feng Yuanzheng.


    Hello Mr. Feng, how is it going in your house?


    Dont mention it. Yan wont go out Feng Yuanzheng sounded reluctant. Yesterday, she sneaked out veryte at night. When she came back, shegrimaced, and her clothes were torn. It looked like shefoughtwith someone. Shesrestingin the bedroom andthrowing atantrum.


    Feng Yuanzheng sounded embarrassedas he continued, Could youe back another day?


    I didnt answer him but turned to tellSenior Shuthat Zhang Yan had gone outst night.


    Its getting more interestingSenior Shus eyes turned brighter. He took the phone from meand askedFeng Yuanzheng to watch Zhang Yan. Then, we returned to the hotel.


    Last night, someone hade to trouble us. From what Feng Yuanzheng had described, I had a feeling that Zhang Yan was behind this.


    Of course, we had to wait and see.


    When we arrived at the hotel, we saw the hotels managerpointingat the surveince screen. He was gesturing something. I craned my neck to see. On the screen, Zhang Yan was standing outside the window. She wassupporting herselfonthe balcony.


    The ce she was standingon wasLi Mazis balcony. Moreover, the times matched, too. It was enough to proveSenior Shus assumption.


    I wanted to take a closer look. However, the manager stopped mewith an unfriendlytone. Kid, you kicked the door openst night.Do youwant to check the cameraanddestroy the evidence?


    Emh I hesitated for a while, then remembered that I had kicked the door of the hotel to save Li Mazi. When we left this morning, the room service hadnte yet. I forgot this detail.


    I immediately gave the manager several thousand renminbi aspensation, then asked to see the surveince cameras. The managerchanged his attitude toward me. He showed me the scene where Zhang Yan appearedst night. My heart throbbed.


    On the screen, Zhang Yan looked around cautiously. Then, she slowly climbed on the water pipe and stopped at our floor. Seeing the scene, I dropped my jaw in awe. It wasnt enough to describe her by saying that her body was as light asaswallow. Zhang Yans name wasnt just in vain!


    She clung onto the pipe and stood on the outer block of the air conditioneras she assessedthe three rooms. Eventually, she skippedSenior Shus roomanddirectly jumpedinto my windowand hungin there. While doing so, she kept mumbling something


    Immediately, a green shadow floated up from her body. It swayed a few times in the airbefore turningtransparent. Then, it flew into the room through the window.


    A few minutester, the green shadowranaway. It was damaged because I was reading the Sacred Text of Daoism at that time.


    Zhang Yan wasnt satisfied. She rolled her eyes at my room, then turned to the balcony outside Li Mazis room.Usingthe same method, she sent the shadow to the room.


    The shadow hadnte back after a long time. Zhang Yan now wore a morbid smile. I knew it was when Li Mazi wasmaking loveon the bed. I shot him a despising nce.


    Li Maziworea wry smileas Irolled my eyes at him. Since I knew Zhang Yan was behind this, I didnt want to watch the video anymore. ButSenior Shusuddenly stopped meand askedme to continue watching.


    Zhang Yans face suddenly paled. Then, she sat downand gaspedfor her breath. It looked as if she had justengaged in afight. After a long time, she finally left.


    I had so many questionsonmymind.Why did Zhang Yan feel pain when I hit the green shadow in the room?


    Perhaps she hasmerged with thatspirit!


    I shared mythoughtswithSenior Shu.


    Senior Shublew on hismustache and smiled. Are you saying thatthespiritcontrolled her? Well, I think its the opposite.Shes the one controlling thespiritto kill us!


    Idroppedmy jaw. Although Id experienced howrudeZhang Yancould be,I couldnt believe thatshe wanted to kill us for real!

 Chapter 599: One Thousand Birds Attack; the Illusory Mind Bell Repels

    Chapter 599: One Thousand Birds Attack; the Illusory Mind Bell Repels


    I frownedand said,Dont touch Li Mazi!


    Zhang Yan sniggered evilly. I dont have the timeto talk nonsense with you!Exchange theiron swallow for Li Mazi. Otherwisee and pick hiscorpse. Your call.


    I turned to look atSenior Shu.Hegave me a slight nod. I then agreed with her.


    Zhang Yan sneered darkly. Tonight, youwile alone. Meetme at the zoo.


    Ihung upthe call andsaid helplesslytoSenior Shu,It seems shes afraid of you. She told me togothere alone.


    Senior Shurolled his eyes at me. Itsa trap, and you are stillinthe mood to smile.


    He snatched my phone and called Feng Yuanzheng. Whats going on over there?


    I was speechless.He alsohad Feng Yuanzhengs number, but he always wanted to use my phone. I knew he just wanted to save a few dimesonphonefees.


    Feng Yuanzheng ranted as soon as the callwentthrough.Shesuspectedme at first, and shelooked like shewas goingto kill me!Had I beena little weaker,my lifewould have been over at that moment!


    He looked scared.


    Anyway, sinceFeng Yuanzheng was all right,Senior Shueased his mind. Heidon the sofa and took a nap.


    Sir, would you like to go upstairs to rest?saidLi Qiushu.


    No need, Im just an old man. No matter where I sleep, its the same.Senior Shushookhis head.


    Ithoughtit was funnyand toldmyself that the sun had risen from the West today! Then, I chatted for a while with Li Qiushu beforegoing to theguest room to sleep.


    After dinner, it was around twilight. Itookthe Sirius Whip and theIllusory Mind Bellwith meanddeparted.I consideredthat thespiritwas afraid of rats,so IputSenior Shus life-bound ratinmy bag.


    By doing so, Iwouldbe able to scare thespirit, andSenior Shucould precisely locate me!


    The suburban zoo didnt sound nice at all. On the way there, Ilearnedsomething from the taxi driver. He pouted.They call it a zoo, but its nothing more than abirdcage!


    It turned out the zoo was just a wide park that kept some birds. The people in the surrounding areas often took walks along the grounds.


    When we arrived, I noticed thatthepark didnt even havealighting system. After the driver left, the entire park was pitch ck.


    I stood still for a while to adapt to thedarkness beforeslowlywalkinginto the park. The park was empty;I didnt even see a bench.Grass greweverywhere I looked. After walking for around two hundred meters, I found abigstone. I directly sat on it.


    I felt a little chilledby thenight wind. I lit up a cigarette and carefully observedmysurroundings. If Zhang Yan chose this ce, she would havee here before me. Perhaps, she was hiding in a corner and watching me now.


    A bird suddenly flew near me, twitteringin midair.Thisaroused my interest. This bird was strange as it didnt look like a nocturnal one. When I looked at the bird, it seemed to understand me. It immediately flew towards me.


    At thismoment, my bag suddenly moved. I heard the life-bound rat squeaking! As it had been withSenior Shufor quite a long time, the rat now hada mind of its own.If itdmade noise atthis critical moment, I was sure it wanted toremind me ofdanger.


    I pulled myself together. The bird was plunging fast toward me, its sharp ws sparklingin the night. It wanted to attack me!


    I didnt have enough time to counterattack, soI instinctively dodged it. The bird brushed past my ear, and the sharp ws cut a lock of my hair.


    Youbastard! I screamed and cursed.


    I was lucky that the life rat hadwarnedme. Otherwise, that bird could have pricked my eyeballs!


    Afterattackingme, the bird slowed down. After around ten minutes, it fell helplessly on the ground. It didnt move afterward.


    Iwent overand checked it. It had died,andthe body was cold and rigid. It wasas if it had been dead for quite a long time. Isoon understood;thespirithad controlled thecarcass!


    I suddenly remembered that the driver had told me this park was like abirdcage. I now knew why Zhang Yan wanted to negotiate with me here. She wanted to use those birds to deal with me!


    I was scared.After imagining flocks of birds covering the sky and plunging to attack me at once, I felt my legs turning intojelly.


    It was said that what you were afraid of the most would indeee to you. While I was thinking about how to deal with them, I heard the windtearand the birds twittering behind me. I turned and saw all kinds of birds covering the sky. They were heading towardme as fast as missiles. I noticed that they werent pping at all.They seemed to be the same as the previous bird, dead.


    To deal with me, Zhang Yan had killed so many birds. I was scared, butalso angry!


    For the time being, I only had the Sirius Whip and theIllusory Mind Bell. It wasnt efficient to use the Sirius Whip to deal with thosesmall-sized birds.After hesitating, I took out theIllusory Mind Bell and shookit.


    I was certain that thespiritwas using its mental power to control the birds. At the same time, theIllusory Mind Bellcould deal with this kind of energy. There should beaneffect, which would give me more time.


    Indeed, as the belljingled, the first wave of birds shook a few times. Then, theydirectlydropped to the ground.


    I hadnt expected theIllusory Mind Belltoworkthiswell. I shook it harder and proactively approached the flock of birds. More and more birds fell. I felt more secure.


    My phone suddenly rang. It was Li Mazis number. I shook the bell with one hand while my other hand received the call. I shoutedintothe phone.Zhang Yan,have you yedenough?


    Im scared of the bell in your hand. Throw it away! Zhang Yaughed, thenforced Li Mazi to talk.


    Hewhimpered. Giveher theiron swallow. As long as we dont put our nose in this, Zhang Yan wont trouble us!


    After Li Mazi finished talking, Zhang Yan hung up the call.


    I was soangry at this moment.


    If I threw theIllusory Mind Beway, Iwouldnthave anything else to defend myself with.If I didnt throw it away, she would torture Li Mazi. His voiceonthe phone was feeble.


    After pondering for a while, I said through my gritted teeth,Mazi, if you die, I promise I will take care of your family! Then, I jingled the bend usedall of my power to attack those birds!


    GivenZhang Yans current situation, itwas a daydreamto hope that she would spare our lives.IfI dropped theIllusory Mind Bell, both Li Mazi and I wouldnt be able to survive.The only solution now was to use force to defeat force.


    Enough! Zhang Yans angry voice came out from behind me. I instinctively turned to face her. She was pulling Li Mazi out from behind a rock. Li Mazi had his hands tied behind his back. However, he looked strange when his eyes met mine.


    Oh, so youcouldn''tstand it when Idefeatedyourbirds.My voice grew cold.


    Zhang Yan wasangryatmymockingwords. She took out a sharp dagger and directly stabbed Li Mazis thigh.


    Li Mazi screamed immediately.


    Dont move! I knew there was only one way to deal with a crazy person like her. I took out the iron swallow. Almost at the same time, I bit the tip of my tongue and spat blood on the iron swallows head.


    I hadnt attacked herbecauseI didnt know where she was. But now, as her fatal weakness was in my hand, I could y whatever Iwanted!


    Indeed, Zhang Yan trembledafterI spat my blood onto the swallow. She dropped the dagger.However, she recovered soon. She grabbed Li Mazis throatand slowly increasedthe strength of hergrasp. Li Mazis legs struggled hard, and his eyes bulged.It didnt look like he would be able toresist for a long time.


    It was good that Iwasprepared. I smeared the rat dung I got fromSenior Shuoverthe iron swallow.The rat dung didnthave an exorcisingfunction. However,since thespiritwas afraid of rats, itwasa sharp weapon.


    You Youbetterwipe off that filthy thing! Otherwise,Ill kill this pockmarkedbastardrgh! Zhang Yans face lost color. Her grip loosened, asshe had to turn aside and retch. She was so enragedthat she was shoutingand yelling.


    I wanted to take this chance to snatch Li Mazi back to my side. Shesaw throughmy intention, so she ignored her conditionandgrabbed Li Mazis throat tighter, shoutingcrazily. We exchange, or we all die!


    She was scared, and Ihad beenwaiting forher to say thosewords. Wewere aware ofthe situation of this iron swallow. Destroying the birdwasnt an option. So, itdidntmatter much whether wehadthe swallow or not. Itwould bemorebeneficialif I used it to exchange for Li Mazi.


    I didnt talk any nonsense. Standing a few meters away from her, I screamed, Let go of him first. When he walks intothe areabetween us, Ill throw the iron swallow to you!


    Why would I do that?


    Because youre faster than me! I didnt want to lose this bargain. Discreetly, I opened my bag to release the life-bound rat. It slid awayand hid inthe grass.


    Zhang Yan didnt reject my idea. She slowly released Li Mazi. Li Mazi walked toward me. His face looked dull. Zhang Yan had probablyroughed him uphard.


    When Li Mazi passed the middle point, I shouted all of a sudden. Here you go!


    When Zhang Yan lifted her head to look, I threw the iron swallowinthe direction where the life-bound rat had gone.


    Zhang Yan rushedtoward itwithout a care for her life. I took the chance and pulled Li Mazi to me. We ranaway.


    After a few seconds, Zhang Yanmade a shrill sound, followed by a cry. At the top of her lungs, she said,Im gonna kill you, you old stinky rat!


    I beamed a faint smileand pulledLi Mazi away.When we came to the gate of the park,Senior Shuwas there. He exchanged looks with me then rushed into the park. He was headed inZhang Yans direction.


    Thiswas our n before Ihadehere. I wouldmaketheexchangeand havethe life-bound rat hold her downasthespiritwas afraid of rats. Then,Senior Shuwouldgo thereto subdue herpletely!

 Chapter 600: Feiyan of the Han Palace

    Chapter 600: Feiyan of the Han Pce


    After we leftthe park, I was worried thatSenior Shuwouldnt be able todeal with Zhang Yan alone. I untied Li Mazi and told him to drive away to find Feng Yuanzheng.


    Then, I turned and ran backtothe park. Li Mazi grabbed me. He spoke up for the first time. In alow and darkvoice, he said, Feng Yuanzhengisdead.


    What the heck? I was stunned.


    Li Mazi nodded.When Feng Yuanzhengs betrayal was discovered,Zhang Yanwas so angry that she killed him.


    You mean, Zhang Yanledus here? This wasa trap? My heart sank, but I couldnt figure out the matter yet.


    Dont you think its toote now? Li Mazi beamed a strange, sinister smile.


    What doyoumean?


    A very bad premonition arose in my heartasI looked at Li Mazis strange countenance. I knew it was toote.


    Li Mazi took out a dagger and directly stabbed me in the stomach. He coldly hissed,Die!


    I felt somethingpressagainstmy stomach, but I didnt fenypain. I stooped and saw that Li Mazis dagger had just stabbed thepass Idalways brought with me.


    Sincehis ambushhadfailed, he withdrew his dagger and tried to cut his throat.It seemed he was bewitched. Thespiritknew thatitonly had one chance. Now that itschance was gone,itwanted to kill him.


    Damn you! I grabbed Li Maziswristwith one hand while pressing the index finger and the middle finger of the other hand together,swiftlypokinghisbe.


    Li Mazis eyes rolled to the back of his head, and he lost consciousness shortly after. I was afraid that thespiritwoulde back again, soI grabbed the Sirius Whip andcautiouslywatchedaround.


    Five or six minutester,Senior Shupantedand walkedout of the park.


    She escaped,he announced with a long face.


    Its all right. I didnt want to kill her tonight, anyway.Senior Shuwas back, and Li Mazi and I were safe. I exhaled in relief. Do you know whats causing the trouble here?


    Its a green shadow. I can tell its a woman wearing a green dress, but I didnt see anything else. She was too fastSenior Shuthen looked at Li Mazi and the dagger on the ground. He said faintly, Kid, youhave great luck!


    I smiled embarrassedly and pulled Li Mazi to the car to return to the hotel.To prevent Zhang Yanfromingand troublingus again at midnight,Senior Shuand I arranged a few defensive formations in Li Mazis room.Ifanything happened there, we would be alerted.


    Normally, afterastrugglewith a spirit,Iwouldbe able tofall asleep quickly. However, even though I had rolled around on the bed for quite a long time,Icouldnt sleep. I thought I had forgotten something.


    It wasnt toote, so I texted Yin Xinyueand askedif shewassleeping. She called me immediately.


    Why are you not sleeping yet?She was worried about me.


    There was so much background noiseonher side.It seemedshe was shooting night scenes. I didnt want to tell her about the situation here.


    Honey, you should try to finish early and notgoto bed toote. Then, Iendedthe call.


    Although we were married,things werentmuch different from before. We were both busy with our careers. Wehada sweetmoment just now,but it wasnt a good way to live like this. After this case, I would spend one or two yearsescortingher to anywhere she wanted to go. We would enjoy the skies and the waters. With this thought, I couldnt help but smile.


    The message ringtone suddenly sounded. I thought Yin Xinyue had sent me another text. I checked the phone andsawit was from Feng Yuanzheng!


    Feng Yuanzheng!


    I now knew why my mind couldnt rest. Li Mazi told me that Feng Yuanzhang was murdered. However,he just sent me a text!Whatwasgoing on?


    Of course, Zhang Yancould havetextedme. I directly called his number, but the call was declined. Then came another text: Master Zhang, I cant receive calls now. I texted you to tell you that I think Iknowwho that thing is!


    Who? I shot up from my bed.


    However, there was no reply from himfora long time. Afterpondering about the matter, I had no way to verify if the real Feng Yuanzheng had sent me the texts.


    If hewasin dangerandwewent there, it wouldnt be different from entering the ourselves. But if we didnt go, Iwouldntbe able to rest my mind.Eventually, I knocked onSenior Shus door.


    I exined the situation and asked,What should we do?


    Senior Shurubbed his head. Well go. Why wouldnt we?


    I was somewhat surprised. Soon, Iunderstood his meaning. We didnt care if it was a trapas we needed to see the face of thatspirit to proceed further.


    I questioned myselfand thoughtthat my courage hadshrunkafter getting married.


    I called Li Qiushu toe to the hotel and take care of Li Mazi. I didnt want to be worried about him while working. Then, I droveSenior Shuto Feng Yuanzhengs house.


    We arrived at the neighborhood entrance. I was about to call him whenI heard a weak voice from behind. Master Zhang, Im here.


    I turned and saw Feng Yuanzheng crawling out of a flower bed. He moved slowly as though he was hurt. I hurried to help him up. The man had a pale face. His body was covered in flowers and dirt. It seemed he had been there for quite a long time. There were finger marks on his neck and dabs of blood on his cor.


    What happened?


    Ihid the truthfrom her, but your brother suddenly disclosed everything Feng Yuanzhengs tone was full of me toward Li Mazi.


    Embarrassedly, I told him, My brother was bewitched. Please forgive him.


    Yeah? Zhang Yan strangled me. Look at my neck. I couldnt wiggle off herreach. She was strangely strong at that time.


    Feng Yuanzheng was strangled until he lost consciousness. He was then thrown into thebathroom. When hewokeup, he crawled out and found thattheTV in the living room wason.He carefullytiptoed there and saw Zhang Yan sitting on the sofa, watching TV. While watching, she was wiping her tears. She looked sad and strangely different. Her aura also changed as though she was another person.


    What programwas shewatching? I asked.


    Feng Yuanzheng didnt think muchand answered,Feiyan of Han Pce. Thattelevision drama is too old. I have never seen herwatchit before. But it seems she has been watching it over and over these days. Ididnt really payattention to it at first. Butnow thatso many things have happened, Ithinkit could beacluetothe problem.


    I searched Feiyan of Han Pceon myphone. It was a soap opera about the love between Emperor Cheng of Han and his favorite concubine, Zhao Feiyan. It wasalso the story about the sisters Zhao Feiyan and Zhao Hede.


    ording to thelegend, Zhao Feiyanwas oneofthe most famousbeauties in ancient times. She was a maid in Princess Yangs residence.Emperor Cheng of Han happened toseeher during a private visit. He was enchanted by Zhao Feiyans mesmerizing eyes and beautiful voice.


    Moreover, with her slenderandpetite figure, she could perform various difficult dances. Legend has it that she could stand and dance in someones palm. It was also the reason Emperor Cheng of Hans desireforconquest was aroused. The emperor visited her every night and didnt want to leave her bed.


    Later on, Emperor Cheng of Han heard that Zhao Feiyan had a younger sister called Zhao Hede,whowas even more charming. He brought Zhao Hede to his harem. It turned out Zhao Hede was a lewd but smart woman. She seized Emperor Chengsheart, whichput pressure onher older sister. In the end, she sessfully took the position she coveted, leaving her sister to live in loneliness.


    After reading the document, I linked the informationtothe iron swallow and Zhang Yans currentnastypersonality. I thought it was Zhao Feiyansspiritthat had troubled us. Senior Shu, what should we do now?


    Do you still need to ask? Go beat her!


    Senior Shutook the lead to the neighborhood. The two of us scurried after him. When wereachedtheir house,Senior Shuand I puton some YangConcealing Talismans. Feng Yuanzheng showed us the way to climb up the water pipe to reach theirbathroom.


    Then, I heard a woman crying in the living room. I peeped through the door slit. It wasasFeng Yuanzheng haddescribed.Zhang Yan was watching Feiyan of the Han Pce with tears in her eyes.


    Herbody was emitting green gas, which made the temperatureof the roomdrop sharply.


    Ever since we had epted this case, we hadnt seen the face of thespirityet. Finally,there was a trace of her.Ihurriedlysmeared some drops of ox tears on my eyelids. Apetitewoman wearing a green dresssat next toZhang Yan, watchingTV. Hereyes were full of desperation.


    After I confirmed that she was Zhao Feiyan, I retreatedand asked Senior Shu,Do you want to storm over there?


    Just stay in this toilet. Im going overthere. Together, well mp her. Then, he crawled out through the window.


    No matter whathappenter, you have to stay here. If shees near you, use this to hitthe nape of her neck! I typed my advice on my phone and showed it to Feng Yuanzheng. Then, I gave him the Peach Soul Flower.


    Zhao Feiyan thought that Feng Yuanzheng was dead, so she wouldnt be aware of him.Sinceshe was using a human body, sheinherited itsweaknesses. If Feng Yuanzheng were able to hit Zhang Yan with the Peach SoulFlower, he would be able toexorciseZhao Feiyans soul!


    Feng Yuanzheng understood my idea. Heiddown. I didnt mind him anymoreand wasready to take action with the Yin and Yang Umbre in my hands. After a few encounters, I already knew that it was impossible to use the Sirius Whip to deal with Zhao Feiyan.


    Zhao Feiyan was still crying, andSenior Shuhadnt done anything yet. I became anxious as the effective time of the Yang Concealing Talisman was almost over.


    After around ten minutes, Zhao Feiyan suddenly shot a look at the toilet. My heart sank. Iloweredmy head and found that the Yang Concealing Talismans power was gone, which exposed my Yang energy!


    For the time being, I didnt know what to do. Then, the door of the bedroom behind Zhao Feiyan suddenly sprang open.Senior Shujumped outand shouted, Evil creature! Today is your death day!

 Chapter 601: Battle with Zhao Feiyan

    Chapter 601: Battle with Zhao Feiyan


    AfterSenior Shuscreamed, hegrabbedZhao Feiyan.


    Zhao Feiyan was surprised momentarily.However, sheabruptly flew from the sofa and avoided the attack.An emerald greenyered skirt flew out. It danced and entangledwithSenior Shu!


    Seeing this, I couldnt help but recall Zhou Ehuang, the Empress of the Southern Tang Dynasty. They had experienced the same situation, as their younger sisters were in theirhusbandsharems. They were both left to face loneliness. After they died, they chose simr weapons.


    Zhuo Ehuang used her sleeves, while Zhao Feiyan used her green skirt.This skirt should haveaninteresting background. With this thought, I wanted tocheckZhao Feiyanswebpageagain.


    Unexpectedly,Senior Shuscreamed, You stinky boy, why are you standing dumbly over there?!


    I lifted my head and recognized thatSenior Shuhad been almost subdued.Zhao Feiyans skirt was forcing him to back off. He had to release his life-bound rat.


    When Zhao Feiyan saw the life-bound rat, her movements stiffened. She screamed and retreated to the toilet room. I was certain that she had spotted me, and that she thought that I would be an easier target to deal with. I immediately read the spell and threw the Yin and Yang Umbre across the void.


    Daoism paid attention to the concept of inaction. Every spell or mantra used to expel evil spirits had an order. Whenever we read a spell, we movedfrom the shallow meaning to the stronger meaning. However, this time, I didntuse itas Iusuallydid. Iused theYin and Yang Umbreatitsmaximum poweronthe first attempt! Instantly, the dazzling light from the Yin and Yang Umbre burst out as though it could radiate thousands of meters away. It litup the entire room! Moreover, it moved as fast as lightning, hoveringabove Zhao Feiyan.


    While under the umbre, she didnt hide or look panicked. She just turned to look at me with surprise in her eyes. Then, she darkly smiled at meand spun around. The moving skirt formeda green light circle.


    I thought I had almost seeded but now,I had to take in a deep breath.


    Thespirits captured underneath the Yin and Yang Umbre would scream in pain. Even if they were intimidating, they would show their panic. Zhao Feiyan didntrevenything when I read the spell, and her spinning speed was much faster than the Yin and Yang Umbre.


    She was indeed the most famous dancer ofhertime!


    Senior Shustood like a tiger watchinghisprey next to Zhao Feiyan. Hisexpressionwas serious.


    This old man had so many treasures, but he hadnt used any this time. I guessed he was afraid that I would rob him one more time, which resultedin thisembarrassing situation. We could protect ourselves, but we couldnt do anything to thespirit. Now, we had to entrust our hope in the Yin and Yang Umbre.


    A few minutester, my reading speed couldnt keep up with her anymore. The Yin and Yang Umbre slowed down, but it didnt look likeZhao Feiyan was tired.


    Gradually, I felt an invisible pressure on my chest. Every time I read a verse of the spell, my heart throbbed. In the end, I couldnt endure anymoreand spata mouthful of blood.


    When engaging in a magic fight, itwasimportant to be persistent. When I vomited blood, the Yin and Yang Umbre dropped to the ground. Its halo vanished.


    I gasped for my breath and clutched my chest. I movedtowardSenior Shu.We cautiously watched Zhao Feiyan.


    Grandson, it seems your grandfatherwont be going back with youtoday.Senior Shupatted my shoulderto show that he cared, like a seniorforting a junior. Then, he sat down cross-leggedand read amantra I didnt understand. As soon as he started to chant, a gray light ring appeared around Zhao Feiyan.


    Zhao Feiyan was about to attack us again when suddenly, sheturned pale.She crouchedand retched. I rubbed my eyes and recognized that the gray light ring was made of numerous rats. Theywere rolling their eyes and baring the teeth!


    Ill fightyou till the end


    Zhao Feiyan hissed then flipped and manipted heryered skirt. She attackedagain. This time, her moves were much faster. The strong wind blew my hair backward.


    At first, I was worried. But soon, I recognized that Zhao Feiyanwouldnt be able toresist for a long time. She was moving fast, but her moves were disorderly. She couldnt createagreen shield to protect herself anymore.


    Arghhh!After letting out a shrill cry, Zhao Feiyan fell hard on the ground. Her eyes were full of fear and worry.


    Senior Shuretrieved his gray light ring. With adeepand confident voice, he turned to me. Go get her!


    I didnt know whySenior Shuwanted to release Zhao Feiyanatthis critical moment, but I didnt ask.I drewthe Sirius Whip from my waistandslowlywalked towardher.


    Without her intimidating speed, Zhao Feiyan was helpless. As I was approaching her, she backed off to the toilet room. Eventually, she stood in front of Feng Yuanzheng.


    Whydoyou want to harm otherpeople? I didnt chase her any further. Standing in front of the toilet, Isaidcoldly,You are the older sister, and you wanted topete against your little sister. Dont you feel shame?


    Zhao Feiyansobsessionwas thepetition for the Emperors favor. She had put up with it when she was alive because of the blood bond with her sister. However, after she died, she had no emotion, but herobsessionhad be deeper and deeper. In the end, she had turned into this evil being.


    Zhao Feiyan was bewildered. Then, she sneered.Oh well, excuse me, but she stole my husband and my happiness!She stole the favor I once had. Shes my enemy! I hate her!Hede is my blood sister. My blood sisterdidthat to me.Whatabout otherpeople? I know. I know you all want to harm me. I will kill you all!


    Zhao Feiyans voice became crazy.At thismoment, I understood her. The imperial harem was as deep as the ocean. To survive, the women in there would passively or actively change themselves. Every single one of them had to do that, let alonea concubine likeZhao Feiyan.This kind of change was unbearable to anyone!


    I was a little absent-minded for the moment. Suddenly, I heard someone scream. I turned and saw Feng Yuanzheng taking action. He did as I hadinstructed. He was using the Peach Soul Flower to hit Zhao Feiyanatthe nape of her neck.


    Zhang Yan trembled for a while. Then, Zhao Feiyansspiritleft her body. She was so madthatshe turned and tried to strangleFeng Yuanzheng. Shedirectlyliftedhim off the ground.


    Good, do you want to harm me too? Then dont me me for showing no mercy! Zhao Feiyan said witha smirk. Her eyes hadturnedblood red.


    Sinceour lives were at stake, how could I sympathize with Zhao Feiyan anymore? I shouted, then wielded the Sirius Whipandshed it atZhao Feiyan. Zhao Feiyan dropped Feng Yuanzheng and flewtowardthe window.


    Right when I was about to chase after her, the window glowed with golden light. Zhao Feiyan bounced backward.Amidstthe golden light, I saw many talismans adheredto thewindow.It seemed Senior Shuhad prepared everything.


    Thismovecould stop thespirit, but it would also enrage her and make her fight until the bitter end. I immediately jingled theIllusoryMind Bell.


    TheIllusoryMind Bell always worked on those with distractingthoughts,whether they werehumans orspirits.At thismoment, Zhao Feiyans soulwasseverelydamaged. She couldnt resist theIllusoryMind Bell. She fend struggledon the ground.


    Why did you have to do that! I cursed fromunder my breath.


    When I faced women, myheart alwayssoftened.It didnt matter ifshe was human or a ghost. A moment ago, I hated that I couldnt just strike her soul and make her vanish. But nowthatZhao Feiyan was whimpering in pain, I couldnt take any bold actions towards her. I slowed down the movement of theIllusoryMind Bell.


    Ah!Zhao Feiyan took the chance. She screamed and charged toward the windowwithout minding anythingelse. She directly broke the golden light created by the talismans. Then, her shadow disappeared into thin air.


    I looked at the shards of ss on the groundand hatedmyselffor being such a fool. Feng Yuanzheng got up from the ground. He lookedfrightened. What should we do now?


    Take your wife to the hospital. What else can wedo? I ventedoutthe anger in my mind.


    There was a loud thud from the living room. I rushed back there and sawSenior Shuwith a chalk-white face. He had fallen tothe ground. Blood wasgushing from his mouth.


    Senior Shu, are you okay? I was scared. I had never seenhim likethis before.


    Senior Shus voice trembled. Dont me yourself. Its good that she ran away.If she had noticed that I couldnt resist anymore, we would all have died tonight.Hurry, leave this ce


    Then,Senior Shus eyes rolled to the back of his head. He had fainted. I now understood that it wasnt thatSenior Shuhad given Zhao Feiyan a chance to survive. He was hurt!


    Feng Yuanzheng was panic-strickenand calledthe ambnce. The emergency unit came and took bothSenior Shuand Zhang Yan to the ambnce.


    Feng Yuanzheng wanted to follow them, but I held him back. I toldhim he could goter.


    I patiently exined, Zhao Feiyan was ambushed today. Im sure the iron swallow is still in your house. We need to find it. Otherwise, Zhao Feiyan wille here one more time for it.


    Feng Yuanzheng noddedand tookme to search around his house. In the end, we found the iron swallow tucked underneath Zhang Yans bed.


    Zhao Feiyans soulwasexpelled from your wifes body, and now we have the iron swallow. I dont think it will be too difficult to subdue her! I smiled at Feng Yuanzheng.


    However, he didnt react to my encouragingwords. He still looked anxious.


    Dont think too much, all right?


    He couldnt ease his mind yet.Butsincewe could solve Zhao Feiyan within the next three days, I didnt want to linger here. I askedhim to go to the hospital.

 Chapter 602: A Great Reversal

    Chapter 602: A Great Reversal


    When we arrived at the hospital, I was surprisedto seeLi Qiushu there. It turned out Feng Yuanzheng had called her and asked her to take care of Zhang Yan. Although I felt irritatedthatshe had left Li Mazi alone, I didnt say anything.


    Senior Shuwoke up. He was sitting up on his bed and drinking some soup; he still lookedexhausted.


    It was always like this in our business.Unless wewere about to die,wewouldnt be in a longa. Most of the time, we would receivesomeinternal wounds.


    Zhang Yan hadnt woken up yet. But with Feng Yuanzheng and Li Qiushu here, my mind was eased. I stayed withSenior Shufor a while then returned to the hotel to check on Li Mazi.


    He was still sleeping. I sawthathis window was untouched, so I returned to my room.


    Li Maziwokeup the next morning. When he saw me, he embarrassedly scratched his head.LittleBrother Zhang, I didntmeanto stab you. I couldnt control myself.


    Its good that youvewokenup. I patted his shoulder. What did you encounter?


    After you took the cab and chased after her, I wanted to call you. But when I took out my phone, someonehitme from behind. I thought it wasacop. But when I turned around, I didnt see anyone


    Li Mazi was still fearful. It turned out hewaspossessed as soon as he left thepolicestation. He couldnt control his bodyand walkedto Zhang Yans house. When hegotthere, Zhang Yan wasquarrelingwith Feng Yuanzheng. While Feng Yuanzheng was trying to exin the iron swallow to his wife, Li Mazi inadvertently busted him.


    Li Mazi got his sanity back right before Zhang Yan turned crazy andbefore shestrangled Feng Yuanzheng.


    It seemed Li Mazi also thought that Feng Yuanzheng was dead. I told him about the situationst night. At the same time, I had a few questions in my head.


    The first question was:Li Mazi was possessed right in front of the police station, so whodrovethe car to lure us away?


    The second question was:When Li Mazi came to the house, Zhang Yanwas fightingwith Feng Yuanzheng. But Li Mazis body was controlled by thespiritat that time. In other words, Zhang Yan was her true self! Why did she need to ask about the iron swallow?


    Li Mazi wore a puzzled faceand asked, Whats wrong?


    I shook my head. Theres something unclear here. Then, we drove back to the hospital.


    Senior Shuwas still drinking soup, but Zhang Yan wasnt inherroom. Feng Yuanzheng and Li Qiushu were gone, too.


    I put the lunchbox I had brought for him on the side tableandasked, Where are they?


    Senior Shumysteriously whispered something to me, whichstunned me. I only got a hold of myself after quite a long time. I couldnt believe it. I wanted to confirmone more time.Are you sure?


    Senior Shunodded, then picked the lunchbox and began to eat. I thought for a momentandgave the iron swallow toSenior Shu. I then left with Li Mazi to the park in the suburbs.


    Since there werent many peopleinthepark, the dead birds on the groundshadnt beencleared; we could smell the stink. I pinched my noseand stayedquietas I ledthe way. Li Mazi seemed to have a new edition of the Ten Thousand Whys book. He kept asking me what Iwantedto do.


    I couldnt endure his pesteringand let out a sigh. Were going to save Zhang Yan. Feng Yuanzheng and Li Qiushuwilllikely murder her!


    WhatSenior Shuwhispered to me in the hospital was that he had figured out the strange rtionship between Li Qiushu and Feng Yuanzheng.BeforeI arrived at the hospital, Li Qiushu had attempted to pinch the oxygen tube to suffocate Zhang Yan. However, she couldnt doitbecause the doctor hade in to check on the patients.


    At first, Senior Shuthought that it was only Liu Qiushu. But then, he noticed that Feng Yuanzheng hadalsolooked at Zhang Yan with deep hatred in his eyes.Hehad murderous intentions!


    Early this morning, Zhang Yan woke up and didntthankLi Qiushu. The three of them watched each other with hostility. Then, Zhang Yanwasdischarged from the hospital.


    Feng Yuanzheng and Li Qiushu walked together. They leftthe room first. On the way to the door, Zhang Yan suddenly turned and talked toSenior Shu,who was pretending to be asleep at that time. I know youvediscovered everything. If you want to know the cause,e to the zoo tonight to watch the fun!


    Holymoly, isthisa love triangle? Li Mazi blinked his small eyes. He spat, I thought Li Qiushu was a good sister. I never thought that she was anastyslut!


    I didnt talk muchand pulledhim into the park to find a good ce to watch. I saw Zhang Yan sitting on a rock. It lookedas though she was waiting for someone.


    She soon saw Li Mazi andme.She smiled,but her eyes didnt. Then, she turned aroundand watchedthe entrance of the park as if nothing had happened.


    What does she want to do? Li Mazi didnt get it.


    I thought and concluded that she wouldnt deal with us. Firstly, she had invited us here to watch the fun. Secondly, even if she wanted to harm us, she didnt have the power since the iron swallow was withSenior Shu.


    Around half an hourter, Zhang Yans face darkened. I followed her line of sight and saw Feng Yuanzhenging hand-in-hand with Li Qiushu.


    Li Mazi got it now.Thosetwo were having an affair. Li Mazi fumed, Zhang Yanisattractive.Whydoesher husband want to go with someone else?


    Igrabbed him and hid behindthe rock in front of usasZhang Yan wasnt hostile toward us at this moment.


    However, it didnt mean that Feng Yuanzheng wanted us to know about his affair.Zhang Yanwas his wife,buthe had still schemed to kill her. Who knew what he would do tothe two of us!


    As they were approaching, Zhang Yans eyes reddened with tears. She spoke up with sobs. You finally admit it.Did you gettired of concealing your affair?


    Haha. Li Qiusheng smiled disdainfully. Her face turned cold. Dont pretend to be a scared maiden! Dont think that I didnt know you wanted to use the iron swallow to harm me.


    Although I had thought about this possibility, I was still shocked.Areal-lifedrama of marriage and affair was ying out right in front of me.


    Harm you? Zhang Yan said through her gritted teeth. What did I do to harm you? I just hated myself for being weak. I knew my husbandhadan affair with my bestie, and I always pretendedthatIdidnt know anything.I pretended because I didnt have enough courage to expose you. I wanted to use the iron swallow because it made me strong!


    If Yuanzhengwasntlucky, you would have killed him already! Li Qiushu took a step forwardand hissed at her.


    Before Zhang Yan could react, she pped and kicked her twice.


    Feng Yuanzheng saw everything but didnt stop his girlfriend. Li Mazi couldnt stand it. He wanted to go there, but Ihurriedly pulled him back. Dont rush in!This isevidence!


    Then, I took out my phone and adjusted the angle to record a video.


    A momentter, Li Qiushu had stopped hitting the other woman. She gasped for her breath and rolled her eyes at Zhang Yan. Zhang Yan adjusted her clothes and rubbed her swelling face.


    She looked at Feng Yuanzheng with tears in her eyes. Zhao Feiyan wanted to kill you. I couldnt stop her, so Idecidedto take action first. It would give you a chance to survive. Itwasme who saved you! Then, she didnt evennce atLi Qiushuandslowlyleft.


    Feng Yuanzheng was bewildered. He looked hesitant.


    Liu Qiushu burst out like a madwoman. She pulledhim andshoutedat him. Yuanzheng, we have to kill her! Otherwise, she will return with that thing. She will torture us to death!


    When Li Qiushu talked, her facelookedmalicious. I disdainedher. When we first met her, she pretended tobe pitiful andtold us about her aggrievance.Now, Iwished I couldp thatshrewto death!


    Feng Yuanzheng looked at Zhang Yan then at Li Qiushu. Eventually, he clenched his jaw and took out a rope. He ran to Zhang Yan and startedto strangleher from behind!

 Chapter 603: The Death of the Life-Bound Rat

    Chapter 603: The Death of the Life-Bound Rat


    Li Mazis eyes turned red when he saw that. I pressed him down again, making him stay still.


    If we dontgoout there, she will be killed! Li Mazi hissed.


    At thismoment, Feng Yuanzheng heard someonesvoice in the park. He immediately loosened his grip and lookedaround to find the source of the sound.Then, the entire park suddenly rattled with noise, followed by many birds flying in the sky. They wereattempting todo a suicidttack.


    See? Zhang Yan isnt stupid. Do you think she would let someone kill her so easily?


    I was also worried, but my intuition told me that Zhang Yan would have a backup! I patted Li Mazis face and stopped recording.After putting my phone away, I continued to watch.


    In justtheblink of an eye, Feng Yuanzheng and Li Qiushu were under attack. The birds scratched them. They were bleeding hard, and their clothes were ragged.


    At first, I wanted to give them a lesson.However, they were still human.I couldnt just stand here and watch themgetkilled.


    They were almost tortured to death. I jingled theIllusoryMind Bell, and the birds fellto the ground.


    After being rescued, Feng Yuanzheng and Li Qiushu turned to me and then to Zhang Yan.They were scared. You know everything?


    If you dont want people to know your dark deeds,you shouldn''t do bad things in the first ce! I didnt even give them a second lookanddirectlycalledthe police. When the police arrived, I gave them the footage video of the other two attempting to murderZhang Yan. The police arrested them forattemptedmurder. Awaiting them was the punishment byw.


    What will you do to Feiyan? Zhang Yan askedin a begging voice. After the policetookthe other two away, she adjusted her mood.


    She seemed to be a good woman. Although Feng Yuanzheng had betrayed her, she still cried when the police took him away.Even though Zhao Feiyan was just aspiritand she wouldnt be useful anymorenow thatZhang Yan haddealt withher husband, she was still worried abouther.


    If shedoesnt botherme,I wont do anything to her! Everything has a causeand an effect. Yourkarmicrtionship with Zhao Feiyanisno more.You have nothing to do with her now.


    Zhang Yan nodded. Then, she told me the story between her and Zhao Feiyan.


    Zhang Yan was a smart girl with good senses since she wassmall.After graduating, she married Feng Yuanzheng and cooperated with Li Qiushu to build their career. She had a happy life. Afterward, she inadvertently figured out that her husbandwas havingan affair with her bestie. Zhang Yan washeart-broken, but she didnt want todestroyher home. She had to swallow her sorrow. There was a time shewentto her hometownand visitedZhao Feiyans tomb. Sheshared her sorrow with Zhao Feiyan.


    Zhao Feiyans tomb was outside Zhang Yans home vige. No one would go and talk to Zhao Feiyan at her tomb. However, Zhang Yan had just experienced the same horrible situationasZhao Feiyan. She often visited her tomb and talked to her. After a while, Zhao Feiyansspiritshowedherself to her and theybecamefriends! Zhang Yan begged Zhao Feiyan to help her.


    Still, Zhao Feiyan was aspirit. In the end, she had gotten rid of Zhang Yans control, which led to the consequences wesaw.


    What will you dointhefuture? I sighed with emotion. I pitiedthis woman.


    Zhang Yan fiddled with a lock of her hairand sighed. What should I do now? I will divorce him and startanew life.


    Thatsgood then!


    Haha. She smiled. Shewaved at us, then left.


    On the way to the hospital, Li Mazi and I didnt talk. I was thinking about how and what had caused Li Qiushu to be in this situation.


    With her financial condition and beauty, she shouldnt have been worried about finding a good husband. Whydidshe wantto steal her bestfriends husband?


    Li Mazi seemed to read my mind. Itsnot strange these days.Girls alwaysappear tohave the bestfriendship, but theyare alwayspeting against one another.Youbought a newshirt today;tomorrow Iwillbuy a better pair of shoes. You got a nice bag today;tomorrow Ill get an expensive cosmetic kit And, if they keepacting like that,its not strange that they would steal each others husband one day.


    Li Mazi sighed. I also sighed. Sometimes, Li Mazi understood the situation better than me.


    Anyway, after understanding the situation, he was done with it.As forme, the story lingered in my mind.


    I wondered, what made thetwo friends act like this? Ifthiswasnt solved, Zhang Yans tragedy wouldrepeatover and over again.


    Iwentto the hospital and toldSenior Shueverything. The old man also sighed emotionally. But when I asked him how or when we could solve this phenomenon,Senior Shupuffed his cigarette deeply. Kid, dont burden your mind with it. Its human nature!


    My heartwasin pain, but Ihad nothing to say.


    At night,Senior Shuwas discharged from the hospital.


    Should we go home? I asked.


    Senior Shuthought, then advised, I dontthink Zhao Feiyanwillstay idle. We shoulddeal withher beforewe leave.


    I agreed withSenior Shus point of view.We stayedfor several days. Since we had nothing to do, the three of ustraveledaround Suzhou. It was a good trip.


    Zhang Yandidntcontactus after that day. It seemed Zhao Feiyan didntgoto her. One weekter, I discussed the situation withSenior Shu. We decided to leave Suzhou tomorrow morning.


    But unexpectedly, something happened to Li Mazi that night!


    As we had been cautious against Zhao Feiyan,Senior Shuand I had arranged things to protect Li Mazi. Except for the talismans on the windows and the door,Senior Shuhad deliberately let hislife-bound ratstay in Li Mazis room.


    We went to bed early that night. I even dreamed about Yin Xinyue. While I washaving a goodtime with my wife in my dream, I heardSenior Shuscream. Instinctively, I got up. Afterputting on more clothes, I dashed to his room.


    Isaw that he wasalright. He squinted his drowsy eyesand asked, What happened?


    I was bewilderedand ranto Li Mazis room. Li Mazi was naked on his bed, but helooked so bony!


    Next to him, thelife-bound ratwas convulsing. The rats head and body had been separated. Blood was sprayed on the ground. Athick scent permeatedthe room.


    Senior Shupaled instantlyand spatblood. I hurried to support him.Senior Shupushed me asideand screamedcrazily, Jiulin! Take revenge for mylife-bound rat!


    He pointed at the window. I noticed that the window was open and the talismans there werent glowing anymore.


    It seemed Zhao Feiyanhadhelp. Otherwise, shewouldnt have been able tokill thelife-bound rat! I gritted my teeth and jumped through the window.In midair, Ismelled something sour.


    Damn it! I carefully analyzed it, only to realize that it was the sour smellofcats. Inever expected thatZhao Feiyanwould invite a cat spirit. I couldnt help but curse under my breath. I read the spell to beckon a local spirit to chase after that cat.

 Chapter 604: Feiyan Dancing on the Palm

    Chapter 604: Feiyan Dancing on the Palm


    This time, I got a limbless little ghost. This ghost had a seriously deformed face. I guessed it had died in a car crash. Pitying the ghost, I deliberately fed it more drops of blood. The ghostwas smart. It moved faster and faster. Around one hourter, it stopped.


    It was the first time I had traveledthisfar with aspirit. I burned a few paper money notes for him. I then looked around and found that I was in a familiar vige!


    It took me a moment to pull myself together. It was Zhang Yans hometown!


    I hadnt expected that the cat woulde to this ce.I tensedup. Igrabbed the Sirius Whip and followed the sour smell of the cat.


    The more I walked, the stranger I felt. When I entered the vige entrance, the surroundings were still clear, and the moonlight was rtivelybright. However, after I stepped into the vige,thefog started to emerge.


    I scanned the ce. The entire vigewassubmerged in a white fog. Moreover, the more I walked, the thicker the fogbecame.It was so thick that I couldnt see anything. I had to grope my way forward, and Iwas struggling tosense the cats aura.


    I was groping my way through the fog for half an hourbefore it gradually thinned out. Finally, I was able to check the surroundings. I found myself out of the vige andin aremote area on the mountain nk. The ground was full of lush grass;shrubs were everywhere.My clothes were damp after brushing through the ce.


    I took a deep breath and closed my eyes to focus on the smell of the cat. However, all I got was the condrefreshing scent of dew.


    The vige couldnt have fog for no particr reason. I knew that cat had spotted me, but I didnt see it anymore. This feeling wasnt good at all. I secretly putmyhandin mypocket to grab a talisman; it made me feel better.


    Suddenly, I heard the catmeowingaround one hundred meters ahead of me. Instinctively, I wanted to chaseafterit. However, when I came to that area, I didnt seeanyone. While I wasfeelingpuzzled, I felt a cold current hitting the nape of my neck. Subconsciously, I squatted and rolled away, taking advantage of the steep slope.


    When I got on my feet again, I saw myself standing next to a giant white cat. The cat was standing in a human stance. It looked as big as a young cow. The cats green eyes sparkled. It staredat me like a tiger eyeing its prey!


    I gulped my saliva. Instinctively, I retreated. Then, wielding the Sirius Whip, I gritted my teeth and dashed forward. The giant white cat licked its lipsand shotme a disdaining nce. When I approached it, it leaped over my headand flewaway. I hurriedly adjusted the whip and managed to hit itstail.


    Meow! The cat screeched horribly.


    I was bewildered. This cat looked as hunky as a bear, but it wasnt really strong. I took the chanceto shthe whip again, hitting itsback. This time, the cat was scared. It sprintedinto the mountain.


    I chased after it. In the end, I saw the cat standing in front of a weathered stone monument. The cat didnt look scared anymore. Quite the contrary, the cat stood imposingly in front of the monument as though it was guarding the ce.


    I took a nceat thestone monument and found a grave behind the stone. However, it was an abandoned grave covered with grass. Moreover, after looking around the ce, I saw many holes. I guessedtomb robbers had visited this grave many times.


    Zhang Yan had told me that Zhao Feiyans tomb wasnearher vige. Moreover, as the cat spirit was here, I had a feeling thatthiswas Zhao Feiyans grave. I turned to the grave andsaidout loud, Zhao Feiyan, show yourself!


    Immediately, acoldwind howledand sweptthrough the ce. Zhao Feiyan flew out. She waswearing her beautiful emerald green skirt. She furiously looked at me.


    The bulky cat shrank into an exquisitely small catand jumpedinto Zhao Feiyansembrace. Zhao Feiyan fondly stroked the cat. The little cat gently licked Zhao Feiyans arm.


    It seemed the cat was Zhao Feiyans pet, and it had been here with her for over one thousand years. I was touched by this. I thoughtandspoke up first.Zhao Feiyan, youshouldstop. Otherwise, you will harm it.


    I wasnt threatening her. I had spotted her shelter,and the iron swallow she had attached to was inSenior Shus hands. If we wanted to, it would take just a second tokillher thoroughly.


    If she wanted tocontinue on this path,thecat pet that had been with her for over one thousand years would vanish too!


    When Zhao Feiyan heard that, her sharp eyes froze.She bewilderedlyeyed the little white cat in her arms. She understood what I had told her, so I took the chancetopush it further. Stop it now. Do not harm people. Im sure I will find a good ce for your pet.


    Are youtelling the truth? Zhao Feiyans eyes brightened.


    I noddedand saidagainst my conscience,Right from the start, we didnt want to harm you. Otherwise, we wouldnthaveshown you mercy.


    Zhao Feiyan didnt answer me. Her red eyes looked at the white cat in her arms. Then, she gritted her teeth and threw the cat to me.


    I caughtthe catand adhered a talisman on its forehead. I had to do that to temporarily block the resentful energy in its body. I didnt want to beattackedby this cat.


    Zhao Feiyan, do you have anyns? Youcanthide in this deserted mountain forever.


    Dancing in the palm, listening to the amazing flute  the autumn night is long in the thirty-six pces! Zhao Feiyan emotionally read the verse that peoplesaidto praise her. Then, she gave her white cat a deep look. She turned and pped heryered skirt.


    I recentlydiscovered the history of her dress. Emperor Cheng of Han had invited the best craftsman to make this skirt for her. It had pieces of jade sewn into theyers of the skirt, which kept her warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Even so, the skirt was still as thin as the cicada wing. It was the best skirt thathadever been made in the entire Han Dynasty.


    Previously, she had manipted her skirt to deal with me. But now, she just wanted to perform a great dance. I sincerely watched her dance andfeltmesmerized. Unexpectedly, while she was dancing, her body suddenly inmed.


    Through the me, I smelled a hint of white phosphorus. I got it now. She had made use of the phosphorus in the grave and her Yin energy to burn herself. I understoodthatZhao Feiyansmind was clearat this time.


    She was held back by the dispute with her younger sister for over one thousand years. Now, for the sake of her pet, she was willing to erase her grudge.


    I took one step backward and respectfully bowed to her. I hoped shewould reincarnate soon. Unexpectedly, the white cat jumped off my armand dashedlike athunderboltinto the me to reach Zhao Feiyans chest.


    The cat slowly shivered and burned. However, it didnt cry even once.


    I witnessed everything, and my nose felt sour as though Iwas aboutto cry. When the me was gone, I walked over to fix her grave. I was surprisedto finda wless skirt in the middle of the ashes.Itsparkledbeautifully under the moonlight.


    I picked up the skirt and walked back to the vige. Remembering whatSenior Shuhad told me, I felt emotional.


    There were many goodsisterhoodsin this world that grew better and better with time.They became bridesmaids for each other. They traveled together even when they were old. They shared the memories of the crazy things they had done when they were young.


    Yet, in this world,a lot of bestiespetedagainsteach other for both trivial and important matters. They plotted against each other. In the end, of course, they became enemies.


    No matter what, I hoped they would never forget their youth when they once had a goodfriendthattheyshared good moments with.

 Chapter 605: Undead Grass

    Chapter 605: Undead Grass


    When Ireturnedto the hotel, I foundSenior Shuhugging hislife-bound rat; he wassobbing. Let alone him, even I hadstarted consideringthelife-bound rata member ofourfamilyas hehad fought shoulder by shoulder with me a few times.


    I toldSenior ShuaboutZhao Feiyans decisionand how her pet had followedher. Then, I handed him the skirt. Although I liked this skirt a lot, asSenior Shuhad lost his littlebrother, I had to refrain myself and offered it to him.


    However,Senior Shu, who had always been greedy, didnt want the skirt.He turned and silently put more ointment on Li Mazis body.


    As I had rushed away to chase after the white cat, I hadnt taken a close look at Li Mazi.At thismoment, he looked so thin, and his entire body was pale. There were many dposing spots on hisskin.Hisimportant, masculine part was swelling to thepointthat it couldnt be recognized. He looked like a dried corpse that was unearthed fromarandom tomb.


    How did he turn into this? I wasstunned.


    Senior Shusnorted. Hes like the dog that never quits the habit of eatingpoop. Im sure hewasbewitched bysomebeauty. If mylife-bound rathadnt sacrificed its life to save him, Im sure he wouldnt even have a piece of bone left.


    Although I was so mad atthisfoolish man,I was still worried about him. What should we do now?


    He wontdie. Ive used my special ointment to cover hisfesteringwounds. They wontworsenfurther. He should eat more nutritious foods, though. He will recover soon. After that,Senior Shudidnt talk anymore. He quietly applied the ointment all over Li Mazi.


    Li Mazi woke up the next afternoon. However, when he spoke, he sounded like he had aged twenty years. I thought I was talking to an old man who had experienced enough ups and downs.


    Senior Shuprescribed some traditional Chinese herbal medicines. Heasked me to make them and apply the medicohim daily. Afterward,hepacked up.Itseemed hewantedto leave.


    Grandpa, where are you going?


    Im going to find the Undead Grass, saidSenior Shuwith sad, red-brimmed eyes.


    Undead Grass? It was the first time I heard about this name. I wascurious. What is it?


    Undead Grass is a sort of fungi that grows on one-thousand-year old coffins. It can revive the dead, exinedSenior Shu. Of course, this Undead Grass is only able to revive those who didnt liveup to their lifespans. It cant helpsomeonewhodied in their bed at a ripe old age. Mylife-bound rats fatewaschanged by me. Itslifespanwasnt that of an ordinary rat anymore. Im sure I can use the Undead Grass to save it!


    Im going with you,Senior Shu! Isaid seriously.


    No matter what,Senior Shuhad been taking care of Li Mazi for me. As this bad thing had happened, I couldnt let him bear the consequences alone!


    Moreover,Senior Shuhad started totreatme much better. He had stopped showing off and taking advantage of his old age. He treated me fondly and caringly.


    Grandson, I can dothisalone. You shouldtakeLi Mazi back to Wuhan as soon as possible.


    However, from the way he was speaking, I was even more worried about him. I asked Li Mazi to go home alone while stubbornly pesteringSenior Shu.


    Senior Shuknew he couldnt shake me off, so he had to agree with me. All right, here, keep this iron swallow. Its themission for you to escort me to find the Undead Grass.


    He gave the iron swallow back to me.


    Moreover, we finally knew the identity of the iron swallow. This iron swallow was the sculpture Emperor Cheng of Han had dedicated to Zhao Feiyan. It was put on top of Weiyang Pce. When Zhao Feiyan lost her husbands favor, the iron swallow was removed. In the end, it was buried with her


    From the craftsmanship of this iron swallow anditshistorical value, it was a top-quality item. With a conservative assumption, I guessed I could sell itforaround three millionrenminbi. I would find a chance to sell this iteter.


    Needless to mention, the skirtwas alsoanexcellentrepresentative ofancient handicraft and manufacturing. Moreover, it had witnessed the beautiful yet sorrowful love between Emperor Cheng of Han and Zhao Feiyan, which made it a priceless treasure!


    I didnt have anynsto sell it. I would wait until the Yin energy on the skirt scattered. Then, I would give it to Yin Xinyue. When she had free time, I would ask her to dance for me.


    In the end, after Zhao Feiyans case waspleted,Senior Shuhad gotten nothing but the loss of hislife-bound rat.He even tried togive memost of themoney,whichdidntseem to behis working style.


    I felt strange anxiety. Senior Shu, is something bad going to happen?


    He shook his head and didnt answer.


    I had to quit querying butkeptprobing about the Undead Grass. Senior Shu, where is the Undead Grass?


    The Undead Grass is only foundin the deepmountains of Yunnan Province. Thepeople there were good at usinginsectsand corpses in the past. To prevent the deceased bodies from being eatenbysnakes or worms, they would put mysterious herbs into the coffin. These herbs have been nurtured by the Yin energy inside the coffins. Slowly, theyhavegrown fungi and be the Undead Grass!


    I noticed thatSenior Shus eyes had kept moving while he was talking. It seemed he didnt know much about the Undead Grass, anyway.


    Have you ever seen the Undead Grass before? I asked.


    He shook his head. No, Iveonly heard rumors aboutit. Thats why I just want to try my luck this time.


    After listening to him, I recalled the time we had given our allto find the Night Dragon Bait to save Chu Chu. However, when we got the Night Dragon Bait, Chu Chuhadalreadypassed away...


    After makingthparison, I could feel how muchSenior Shulovedhislife-bound rat. I made up my mind. No matter what, I had to help him find the Undead Grass.


    Senior Shudeterminedly bought a map of Yunnan. Herecalleda location on the map. When he showed me the map, I saw that the area he had circled was the western part of Yunnan.


    My deepest impression of the western area of Yunnan was the famous Western Yunnan Anti-Japanese War. Every time I heard the name Western Yunnan, I would have the image of brave Chinese people wrestling against Japanese soldiers in the Nu River.


    The mountains in Yunnan were full of waters and evilspirits. Of course,thendscapethere would be extreme.There would becountless dangers deep in the mountain. To assure our safety, before we departed,Senior Shubrought me to his home topick upa craft item that looked like a walking stick.


    This thing is called the Holy Mother Scepter. Itsan otherworldly item Ivesubdued. It used to be the weapon of the Holy Mother of the White Lotus Cult in the Qing Dynasty. She made use of religion to lead the peopleto strikeagainst the brutal Qing rulers. In the end, the rebellion failed, and they were executed.


    Then, he took out a shining Emei Piercer[1]and gaveit to me. Your whip only works seven times. You need to equipyourself with moredefensiveweapons.


    What kind of treasure isthis? Iasked with a smile.


    Senior Shuwaved his hands, Kid, dont feelcontent. Imjust letting you borrow this Emei Piercer to use during thetrip. When wee back, you have to return it to me.


    I nodded repeatedly. He had given me the jade skirt and the iron swallow. Iwouldfeel shame if I coveted his other items.


    This Emei Piercer is a magic weapon. It used to belong to the Head of Emei School, Madam Beimi, addedSenior Shu.


    Donttry to show off, grandpa! Emei School? Why didnt you say its from Wudang School? I pursed my lips.


    Senior Shupalmed me at the neck. In an irritated voice, he said,Youre still a kid. There are so many things youdontknow yet.Take ordinarypeople as an example. Do they believe in the existence of otherworldly merchants?


    I thought it was reasonable, so I didnt continue withthis topic. I packed up the good stuff. Then,we took a flight to Kunming.


    After arriving in Kunming, wewentto Tengchong County in Baoshan City.It waswhere the three great riversgathered.


    Tengchong borders Myanmar. In history, every timethe Central ins changed the ruling dynasty, this ce would have a bloody baptism. After the Reform,theceopened up to tourists, which helped the areas economy.


    Senior Shuand I arrived in Tengchong at around twilight. We checked around and didnt find any suitable hotels. It was fortunate that the weather was good. We walked under the bright moonlightand leftthe town to the remoteandmountainous area.


    The older the mountain is, thehigher thepossibilityof findingthe Undead Grass, saidSenior Shu. Thus, our target was clear. We were headedto the highest mountain in our sights.


    After midnight, the temperature started to drop. We felt cold and tired. Determinedly, we set up a simple tent and camped in the middle of the mountain nk.


    When it drew close to dawn, I woke up because ofanatural need. I crawled out of the tentand founda ce to ease myself. When I turned around to return to the tent, I heardastrange noise echoing from the depths of the mountain.


    It sounded like a squeaking fox.When I quieted my mind to listen, it sounded like a woman crying. Since it was too far away, I couldnt distinguish what it was. I stood at my spot andobservedthe surroundings.I didnt see anything strange, soI returned to my tent to sleep.


    When I woke up, it was noon. The weather wasnt so good and therewere no peopleon the small path to the mountain. The two of us ate some canned foods before packing up and continuing our hike.


    I remembered the fox call I had heard during the wee hours, so I toldSenior Shuabout it.


    Senior Shunodded. Yeah, in a ce like this, there should be many strange phenomena. Dont mind it. As long as it doesnt affect us, justignore it.


    After walking for the whole day, we reached Mount Horse Saddle. There were many volcanoesin the Tengchongarea.Mount Horse Saddle was the most famous one. The mountain got that namebecauseits shape looked like a horse saddle.


    Although it used to be a volcano, the mountain had three freshwaterkes and lush vegetation.There were aquatic nts by the foothills, and the area hadgraduallybethe local graveyard.


    As such, there were many graves at the foothills. However, the higher we climbed, thefewergraves we saw. Anyway, I could see that the graves on the higher elevations were also older. Some of them were unearthed, with the coffin lids scattered on the ground.There was no doubtthatthe tomb robbers had visited this ce many times.


    Along the way, we sometimes saw thesignboardsthat the authorities had left behind. It meant that Mount Horse Saddlehad beenexploited already.


    I felt a little distressedand said,Senior Shu, this ce has be a scenic sight. Will the Undead Grass be able to grow in such conditions?


    My silly boy.Scenic sights like this alwayshave forbidden areas. Didnt you read the news? Many touristsdiein scenic areas every day.I guess theycourt death themselves.


    Senior Shulit up a cigaretteand saidwith irritation,Im sure they wanted to satisfy theircuriosity, so they entered thoseforbidden areas!


    I listened to him and agreed withhis guess. I stopped talking.


    Indeed, at aroundnoontime, we sawanobstacle that blocked the road. Abarbed-wirefence was set up around the peak of the mountain.Along withthe thorny shrubs and big trees,the wayup to the mountain peakwas blocked.


    A signboard read that there was some construction goingonat the mountain peak. However, the paint on the board was partly peeled off.It seemed it was just a disguise. I couldnt help but giveSenior Shua thumbs-up. The old man smiled disdainfully and took out two pairs of hiking boots from his bag.


    After changing into hiking boots, I cut twosticks the size of a childs arm.We carefully started to walk into the thorny, bushy area.


    Thismass of thistles and thorns wasreallyrge, around two square miles. The spiky bushes grew above some areas of a muddy swamp. It was easy to step into the swamp if we didnt pay attention. Thatwaswhy we slowlygroped through. It took us around two hours to get out of the dangerous area.


    I checked the new surroundings. The vegetation around here was much thicker. Moreover, many spots were exuding bluish-purple gas.


    Senior Shulooked at the purple miasmaand lickedhis lips. He carefully suggested, Itsatoxic miasma. We shall wait. We will try toinvadethe ce tonight.


    When he said that, my heart throbbed. I couldnt help but look at the miasma a little longer.


    The miasma wasasort of toxic gas that was often found in tropical forests. It was createdby dposinganimal carcasses under high heatconditions. In history, there was a famous story about miasma. Zhuge Liang and his army had encounteredamiasma on their way to settle with the barbarians in the South. At that time, so many Shu soldiers were killed by the toxic gas. This time,Senior Shuand I didnt bring gas masks with us. If we casually walked in there, we wouldnt be able to return alive.


    Fortunately, the miasma wouldnt exist twenty-four hours a day. It was like the early dews.The dews would evaporate when the sun was up, and the miasma would thin out and disperse at nightfall.


    However, the ce with miasma would have a bigger possibility of having Undead Grass.Senior Shuand I camped there. No matter what, this ce wasnt far away from the peak. We set up our tentsand made this ce our temporary base!


    1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emeici

 Chapter 606: The Black and White Evil Duo

    Chapter 606: The ck and White Evil Duo


    AfterSenior Shuand I ate something, we went to bed. Dreamily, I thought I heard the strange noise fromst night again. Moreover, it was very distinctive this time.Feeling curious,I got out of the tent and followed the noise. It was from the woods not far from us.At thismoment, the miasma had mostly dispersed. I wanted to go there to see what was crying.


    Did you forget what I told you?At thismoment,Senior Shus voice arose. With a dark face, he pulled me back to the tent. Then, he started togive me an earful. Kid, were your ears stuck with donkey hair, ordidyouthinkthat youve lived long enough?Thatsnot something we can peep or interfere with!


    I was so scared I couldnt speak. However, I was doubtful.Why was Senior Shu sowary of this ce?


    A momentter, when he looked better, I smiled servilely and asked, Grandpa, did something bad happen here before?


    Senior Shu snorted, then started to speak with an indifferent tone.You want to know?In 1942, when the Kuomintang army marched along the Burma highway to fight the evil Japanese army,aregiment of theirs passed this ce.Inone night, the entire regiment had disappeared


    What?!


    I took a deep breath. However, I thought itshouldntbe true. At that time, the situation was chaotic. Perhaps the Kuomintang troopwasambushed and destroyed by the enemy.


    The next day, when the Kuomintang armys leaders learned about this, they sent some scouts to investigate.The scoutsweregone, too.


    WhenSenior Shucame to this, his eyes were full of fear. He sounded a little panicked.A regiment has around one thousand soldiers. Even if the entire regiment was destroyed by the enemy, there should be many traces left. Yet, they found nothing!


    What happened after that? No more investigation? My stomach churned, but I was still curious.


    Senior Shuwaved his hand helplessly. After the rebellion seeded, the Kuomintang governmentsentpeople here to do further investigations. They got nothingin the end, so they made an excuse to fence up the ce. They said that the mountain had toomany wild and dangerous animals.Some disciples of the Mysticism School also came here to investigate the case. However, they allsufferedthe samefate.No one came back alive, andnot eventhe bodies of the deadwere found.


    Are we still going there? I feltas thougha little drum was ying rapidly in my heart.


    Senior Shusawthat I wasscared. Hesmiled to calm me. Noneed to be so tense, grandson! There are so many mysteries and secretson thisthousand-year-old big mountain, but we are not going to investigate anything. As long as we staycontent withour lot, I think we should be all right.


    After talking,Senior Shupicked up his Holy Mother Scepter and left the tent. I held the Yin and Yang Umbre in my left hand while my right hand heldonto the wolf-eye shlight. On my waist, I had the Sirius Whip and the Emei Piercer. I scurried behindSenior Shuinto the woods.


    I thought it would be boringupthere.Butas the miasma had thinned out,itfelt cool.The breeze sometimes brushed by,which made me feefortable.


    However, thatfortable feeling was soon reced by the cold. It felt as cold as falling into an icy cave or standing in front of an air conditioner running at its maximumspeed in the middle of the freezing winter. I kept blowing my breath into my palms. Still, I shivered in the cold.


    Dont panic. The ce that has the Undead Grasswillbe much colder than this. You will feel better when you get used to it.


    Senior Shutook out a talisman as big as my hand and adhered ittomy chest. Immediately, I felt a warm current flow from my chest to my entire body. When I walked, it felt much warmer.


    Gradually, I got used to the ambient temperature. After walking a few miles, we saw a stone monument, which was thesourceof the cold.


    Behind the stone was a domedtomb. From its appearance, I guessed the tombs owner was from the North. The locals here preferred to hang the coffins on the mountain nk rather than burying them.Senior Shulooked excited. He began to walkfaster.


    Aburied coffin willhave a higherchanceofgrowing the Undead Grass!


    However, when we approached the grave,Senior Shuwas enraged. From where wewere standing, the grave looked intact. However, it had been looted. From the other side, we saw that the grave was dug, and the coffin was scattered on the ground.


    Senior Shusniffed the air. Then, he rubbed thecoffin afew times. In the end, hemadea sad conclusion.We arete. Someone has beat us to it.


    I shone my shlight overthe grave. From the color of the coffin and the moisture of the mud, the grave had been just unearthed. I guessed it was doneinthe past two days. With that thought, I felt flustered. Senior Shu, do you think the people from theLongquan Viare behind this to trouble us?


    Impossible. Even if they want to trouble us, they dont need to risk their lives toe here for the Undead Grass.


    Senior Shushook his head. You dont need to worry that much. Of course,many people wantthe Undead Grass. It just happened to be taken before wegot here, though. We can look for it somewhere else.


    Although his voice sounded calm, his face showed a sense of loss. I didnt talk anymore. I grittedmy teeth andwalkedforward.


    At thismoment, thudding sounds echoed behind us. It sounded like someone was hittingastaff onto the ground. I thought it wasSenior Shuswalking stick. After a few steps,Senior Shuhad passed me already. However, the thudding soundcontinued toecho behind me.


    As soon as I was about to turn my head around to see,Senior Shugently cleared his throat. I got it immediately.I shouldnt careabout the things that werent my business!


    We had walked a few hundred meters. When the strange sounds disappeared, I rxed and askedSenior Shu, Whatwasthat noise?


    Senior Shuthought then answered faintly, When a tombisunearthed and the corpseisrevealed,it will be azombieunder the moonlight.


    A zombie...?


    I was shockedand droppedmy jaw. Aseries ofscenesfromLin Zhenyings movies shed in my head. I now recognized that it wasnt the thudding noise fromawalking staff. It was the sound thatthe zombiecreated whenithopped around.


    Senior Shu, whydidn''t wedeal with thatzombie? Although it didnt want to hurt us, what if itleftthe mountain andkilledpeople down in the vige?


    It wouldbe heaven''swill. If it happens, we cango deal withit. However, we cant take action now.Senior Shusighed.


    I thought about it for quite a long time before I understood what he meant. I shook my headand continued to walkbehind him.


    After that short episode, I thought itwouldnt behard to find the Undead Grass.Unexpectedly, we had moved in the depths of the mountain for quite a long time and found many cold graves, but we hadnt seen any de of Undead Grass.


    Senior Shubecame dispirited. He sighed then said, Either someone hade and taken the Undead Grass on this mountain before us, or there is no Undead Grass here. Im afraid we will have to go and look somewhere else.


    Why dont we goto the peak to take a look?


    I was still unwilling. We hadmovedaround the mountain nk but we hadnt entered the peak yetbecause Senior Shuthought thatit would be too dangerousup there.


    Thats oust chance. However, you have to wait for me outside. Do not follow me.Senior Shuwarned me first.


    He thenaddedas he was afraid that I wouldnt agree with him,Itsbetter for theboth of us. Otherwise, I will have tolosemy focus to help you.


    It wasnt that he was being pretentious.Undernormalcircumstances, I could indeed support him.However,if we facedsomething toointimidating, I would be a burden to him. In the end, I gave him a nod.


    As I had agreed,Senior Shusmiled and turned around. Using the Holy Mother Scepter to support himself, he started climbing to the mountain peak.


    I followed behind him. When we were about to reach the peak, the temperature dropped sharply. Although Ihadthattalisman fromSenior Shu, my body still shivered involuntarily.


    However, I wasnt panicked, but excited. I said,Senior Shu, what do you think?


    Things are almost right. There could be something up there!


    Senior Shuexcitedly rubbed his hands andincreasedhis speed. However, before we reached the peak, two strangepeoplesuddenly dashed toward us on the small mountain path.


    I didnt know if they were humans or ghosts. However, even from a very far distance, I could feel thecold exudingfrom them. Moreover,one was wearing white clotheswhiletheother was wearingck clothes. At first nce, they looked like the ck and White Impermanence, two deities from legends.


    My legs turned jelly-like. I gulped and whispered toSenior Shu, What should we do now?


    BeforeSenior Shuanswered, the two strangepeopletalked in unison. Return to where you came from. Otherwise,well kill you.


    Their voices were hoarse and matched with each other, which producedarobotic effect. In thisambiance, their words lingered in our ears.


    Senior Shukept silent. He grabbed my arm and turned around. Wedescendedthe mountain.


    After walkingfor a while, I turned around to check. The two strangers, one in ck and one in white, didnt chase after us. I exhaled, still feeling fearful. Were theyhumans or ghosts? Whatwerethey doing there?


    I dont know, either.Senior Shus brows mmed together. He rubbed his temple. If they are humans, how can they havesuchthick Yin energy? If they arent humans, how can they have shadows?


    I admired and respectedSenior Shueven more now. I was frightened at that time and didnt have the mind to observe. Fortunately,Senior Shuhad recognized that theyhadshadows.


    If they are humans, theres nothing to be afraid of. We can just storm in there! I suggested.


    Thefearfulthing was theunknown.If they were humans, even though they were fierce,I wouldnt be so scared of them.I wanted to return to see if we could brush through them to take the Undead Grass.


    It seemsyou didntnoticethat the cold didnte from the Undead Grass.Thecold came from those two freaks!Senior Shupaused for a while thensaid, You sensed the Yin energyfrom them, didnt you?


    I felt irritatedand shookmy head in frustration.Senior Shuwas right.Thosetwo had thick cold airexuding from their bodies. That was why I didnt know if there was Undead Grass up at the peak of the mountain. It wasnt wise togoback and risk our lives.


    We then headed back to the ce we had camped.


    Aswe were about to reach the campsite,Senior Shuhaltedand sniffedaround. His face turned strange. There is Yang energy around. Someone has visited our ce!

 Chapter 607: Achang Tribe

    Chapter 607: Achang Tribe


    Whos there? I looked around.


    Senior Shupulled himself together. From the Yang energy I sensed in the air, that person isnt powerful. Idont thinktheycame herewith evil intentions. I guess they were tourists who identally trespassed our campsite.


    Senior Shuheaded to our campsite, and all of a sudden, he disappeared. As the sky was too dark, I didnt know what had just happened. I worriedly walked forward.


    And,I experienced the same thing. I sliddown justasSenior Shuhad done!


    It took me a few seconds to reach the bottom. I hurriedly turned on the shlight. Irecognizedwe were trapped inapit someone had dug. The pitcoveredseveral square meters.I sawSenior Shustanding near me.


    Luckily, they didnt set any spikes here. Otherwise, we would have be human hedgehogs.


    Senior Shuwiped the cold sweat offhis face. Then, he took the shlight from meand shone it onthe space above. I lifted my head and followed the light. This pit was four or five meters deep. However, when we came here to camp, there was no pit!


    I was a little shakenand cursed,Who theheckdid this? Theyhavedug such a deep pit without leaving any traces!


    It wasnt too strangeforsomeodig such a deep hole on innd.However,we were on the mountain, where the soil underneath was all basalt!


    Senior Shusaid, Itshould be the native peoplehere. Theyre probablyangrybecause wevetrespassed in theirforbidden area. However, Idont thinkthey mean harm. Otherwise, we would have been dead by now.


    Then, he found a spot to sleep.


    The walls of this hole were strangely smooth, whichhad made it impossible to climb up.


    I couldnt be as calm as him. Shivering inside, I watched the hole above. WhenSenior Shuhad alreadyfallenasleep, I felt thecoldwind continuously blowing from above. Gradually, my scalp went numb.


    I didnt know howmuch time had passed, butmy eyes slowly closed at some moment.


    Then,afox cry echoed above my head. This time, I heard it loud and clear. That thing was right above my head. I wanted to see what it was, butit never appearedwithin my vision.


    Around half an hourter, the cry disappeared. I checked my phone. It was 4:00 AM. Thinking that there shouldnt be anything fouling again, I rxed and slept right away.


    I didnt know how long I had sleptbeforeI heard rapid footsteps above my head. I didnt sleep deep enough, so I woke up as soon as I heard the noise.Senior Shuwas awake. He was sitting cross-legged next to me.


    Seeingthat I had wokenup, he pointed upward. Here theye!


    Indeed, when the footsteps stopped, we heard people yelling and cursing above our heads. They were speaking some minor ethnguage that I didnt understand. Soon, a rope was droppedto us.When I was about to climb up, Senior Shu stopped me.


    Wait here. Im going first to see the situation.


    Then, he grabbed the rope and slowly climbed up. Not long after hewentup, I saw the ropedropdown again.Itmeant that I could go up.


    I grabbed the rope and climbed up. Finally, I saw who hade to rescue us. There was a group of people surrounding us. They all held pipe gunsorbows, and they worecolorful garments. Some even had beautiful feathers on their heads. At first nce, I knew they weresomeminor ethnic hunters.


    They looked angry, and theystaredat us asthoughthey had a deep grudge against us. I couldnt stand this unknowing hostility. I talkedfirst. Why did you dig thispit to trap us?


    You two came here to rob the tombs. Wewere alreadykindenough not tokill you! One of the hunters spokeinbroken Mandarin.


    Rob the tombs? We didnt rob any tomb!


    As soon as I was about to exin,Senior Shupushed me aside andwentto the hunters. He said in a stern voice,We came here yesterday. Were looking for the legendary Undead Grass. Wehaventrobbedany graves here, nor do we want to.


    Then,heopened our tents in front of them.After showing them thedefensivemagic tools, he said, Brothers, youmade a mistake. You see our tools here? These arent thingsthattomb robbers use, wouldntyou say so?


    The leader of the hunter team looked hesitant. After a while, one of them talked to himintheirnguage. The leader thenmadea coldface. Recently, our ancestors tombshavebeen robbed. Moreover, every time, the robbersmakeanoisethat sounds likeafox cry! Yesterday, our Dazhuwaitedhere the whole night. He heard the fox cry from this ce. What else do youhaveto say?


    Hold on, you saidafox cry? Does it sound likeawoman crying?


    It was the sound I had heard when I hade to this mountain. Moreover,st night I heard it right above the pit! I didnt know what it was, but now, I understood that it wanted to me the crime on me andSenior Shu!


    I exined what I had experienced since we hade to the mountain to the head hunter. After listening to me, he lowered his voiceand discussedwith the other hunters. In the end, he nodded. I trust you for now, but you have to prove that you didnt do such things.


    Then, he waved at his peers. The other hunters threwSenior Shuinto the trapping pit.


    He gave me an evil smile. Before we get the tomb robbers, we need a hostage.


    Okay!


    I nodded reluctantly, thinking thatSenior Shuand I were lucky that we had encountered rtively gentle Yunnanpeople. Ifthishad happened in Tibet, theywould haveshotus asthoughwe were just hopping rabbits.


    I am Baji, a local hunter. These are my brothers.


    Aftermakingthe deal that I would help them find the real culprits, Baji showed me the friendly and hospitable faces of the minor ethnic people. He roasted the boar he had just hunted to treat me. While gnawing on the juicy boar leg, I listened to the strange stories that had happened here recently.


    These hunters were all from the Achang Tribe.For generations, they had lived in this area. They huntedto feed their families, and when the old people in their tribe died, theywereburied on Mount Horse Saddle. They said that by doing so, itwould guarantee theirter descendants lives.


    A few days ago, when Baji came to the mountain with his peers, they foundthat thegrave of one of their ancestors was unearthed. Although they were angry, they thought it was just anident. They fixed the grave and left.


    After that day, the graves in the mountain wererobbed from time to time. Thestrongmen of the tribe pledged their hearts that they had to makethingsright for their ancestors.Theysplit up and tookshiftstowatch the mountainthroughoutthe days and nights. Soon, they recognized that when they heard the fox cry, atomb was robbed. Thatwas why they had misunderstood usst night.


    After listening to Baji, I asked skeptically,You mean, youve been watching for quite a long time and you havent found anything suspicious yet?


    Baji stuttered. Wesawtwo robbers digging the tombs. At that time, we were confident that we had outnumbered them, so we all rushed toward them. Unexpectedly, they moved so fast. Moreover, no weapons could harm them. They seem to be some sort of robot! We let them escape in the end


    When he said that, Bajiblushed. To them, it seemed to be an embarrassment that they had let their enemy run away.


    I wanted tofort Baji but then, I recalled the two freaks that had forced us to move away from the mountain peak. I asked, The two tomb robbers you met, one wore white clothes and the other wore ck clothes, right?


    How did you know that? All the men jerked up from their seats after I said that.


    From their abrupt reaction, I knew I was right. I didnt say anything further but quickly pulled Baji to the mountain peak.


    He hesitated at first, but he then waved his hands and asked some peoplewithguns to stay by the pit to watchSenior Shu.


    Around half an hourter, wearrivedatthe cewhere Senior Shu and I had seenthe two freaksst night. Strangely, there was a hole right where they had stood.


    Damn! I must kill them! Baji was stunned when he saw that.


    I followed him and saw a tomb under that hole. The coffin was pried open,which revealedanunrecognizable corpse inside.


    We joined hands to fix the grave.


    Baji looked at me with red eyes. This is my grandmothers tomb. She was afraid that her tomb would be raided afterward, so she didntwant atombstone. But now


    Before Icould providehimfort, he got on his kneesand beggedme to help them. I was bewilderedat thismoment. I was a suspect in the previous moment, and now theydmade metheir savior.


    From the soroundmy grandmothers tomb, Ican tellthat it was dug early this morning. You andthatold man were in the trap at that time. Of course,Idontsuspectyou anymore. Please, Iknowthat youre notanordinary person. Please help us!

 Chapter 608: Help! Help!

    Chapter 608: Help! Help!


    No problem! I will help you!After thinking about the arrogant faces of the two strangersst night, I felt so angry that my teethitched.


    Althoughthose hunters were stronger than ordinary people, they didnt know much about our profession. If we didnt help them, they would be harmed. More importantly, they were the locals here. Building a good rtionship with them would facilitate us in searching for the Undead Grass.


    Baji looked excited when I agreed to help him. He blurted something with his fellows. Then, everybodys attitude toward me was much better. Baji, tell them theresno need to be so polite and distant.


    We returned to our campsite to pullSenior Shuout of the pit. I then toldhimmy idea, which he supported.


    He gasped for his breathand cursed, When we get those two, we will have to teach them well. Its not good to dig upthe graves of other peoplesancestors!


    He took a big biteofthe roast pig thigh. He then turned and asked Baji, Brother, do youhaveany garlic? Please give me a clove


    At night,Senior Shuand I waited in the tent. The ck and white freaks looked tough to deal with. I asked Baji and his team to go home since theywould be ofno helpeven if they decided to stay.


    Senior Shu, arent we going toenragethe spirits on the mountain if we take action?AsI started to think about the missing case of the entire Kuomintang regiment, my heart raced.


    Senior Shushook his head. Dont worry, were helping the locals. Their ancestors here wont trouble us, saidSenior Shuwitha smile.


    I had also thought about this. I exhaled in relief.


    Anyway,although I hadprickedmy ears the whole night, I didnt hear anything. It was a quiet night. The fox didnt cry.


    Did they alreadyrunaway? Imumbled.


    Baji had told me that the two robbers didnt dig the graves every day.They would disappear for a whilebefore showingup tomit anotherrobbery. As they had done their job yesterday, it would be in vain forSenior Shuand me to wait the whole night.


    Senior Shuthought then took me to Bajis grandmothers tomb to take another look.He kneeled,pinchedsome mud,andsniffedit.


    They will take action again,saidSenior Shuwith a smile.


    Howdoyou know that? I was skeptical.


    Senior Shupointed at the graveandexined, Thegeomancyin this ce is just average, and there isnt much prosperous energy.This means that there werent many grave goods here. The tomb robbers want to be rich.Sincetheyhavent foundenoughtreasures yet, they wontstop.


    Prosperous energy? It was the first time I had heard this term.


    Senior Shusmiled.Prosperous energy is also called good energy. Its some sort of gas emitted by the grave goods.Tomb robberscancheckthe amount of prosperous energy to guess if the tombhastreasures. Once the prosperous energy is produced, it canst for a while. It wont disappearimmediately afterthe robbershavetakenthe goods away.


    Those two fellows lookedprofessional. How could theyhave missedit?


    EvenSenior Shuknew about this prosperous energy thing, so it wasstrangethat the real robbers didnt know about it!


    Senior Shufrowned. Idontknow what they are doing or what they want to do. We will have to wait and see.


    We returned to the campsite and removed our tentsto showthat we were leaving. When we arrived in Tengchong County, I called Bajiand toldhim about the situationst night.


    Baji was a hot-tempered person. You cant leave like that!


    I answered,Dont worry. We left because we wanted to show those guysthat wewere no longer there. You shouldcontinueyour patrol shifts and pretend as though you are waiting to capture the robbers.However,you shouldnt engage in a fight with them.Do youunderstandmy meaning?


    From the situationst night, I feltthatthe two freaks wereonlywary of me andSenior Shu. Baji and his hunters had beenchasingthem for days, but noonegot hurt. It meant the tomb robbers didnt want to harm them for some reason.


    It was good thatwecould use the hunters to distract them!


    Anyway, Horse Saddle Mountain wasnt far from the town. Incase ofemergency, wecould inviteaspirit to carry us over there. We would reach the ce withina few minutes.Senior Shuand I werent that worried. We looked around to find a hotel to rest in.


    However, a few days had passed andI hadnt received Bajis call.I decided to call him.


    The mountain has been quiet these days,he answered.


    After hanging up the call, I couldnt help but curse.


    Senior Shuwore a calm face. Dont be dispirited.Im sure theyll be back.


    When he said that, Ifelt relieved. Istarted my preparations and alsocalled Yin Xinyue. She told me thatbusiness atmy antique shop had been mediocre these days. She decided to close the shop for now. Li Mazi was recoveringwes he was taking the medicines prescribed bySenior Shu.


    The stone pressing on my heart finally fell off as I knew Li Mazi was fine. I started to chat with Yin Xinyue.


    Hubby, after this case, can youtakesome time to visit my parents? asked Yin Xinyue.


    I nowrealized that I had never visited my mysterious inws.


    Im sorry, honey. Of course, I will make time after this case.


    AsHorse Saddle Mountain had been quiet these days, I wasnt tense anymore. When night came, I went to bed early. At around midnight, I was awoken bymyringtone.


    Drowsily, I nced at the phone. It was a call from Baji! I pulled myself togetherand receivedthe call.Did the two freaks appear?


    Help Come save usHurryBajis voice was feeble. Although he couldnt speak fast, he sounded panicked. As soon as I was about to ask him what happened, the call was hung up.


    I didnt dare to linger. I put on more clothes and took my bagbefore goingtoSenior Shus room. Unexpectedly, the old manwasalready prepared.


    He winked at me. Then, in a gravevoice, he said,Grandson,wasI right?


    You still have the mood toshow off? If we linger here, Baji and his hunters will befinished!


    I didnt have time to talk nonsense withSenior Shu. I pulled him downstairs and quickly read the spell to beckonaspirit. We wanted to rush to Mount Horse Saddle as soon as possible.


    I thought we would go there directly. However, when we reached the middle of the mountain nk,Senior Shushooed away the ghost that had carried us there. Before I could ask him, I saw his stern face. He pointed inthe direction ahead of us.


    I lifted my head to see. The peak of the mountain was shrouded by red fog. I could hear some people screaming in pain there. I guessed it was Bajis teamas other people wouldnt go to this mountain at night.


    Senior Shforted me.Then, heused the Yang Concealing Talismans to concealour Yang energy. With the Holy Mother Scepter in hand, he took the lead and dashed to the mountain peak.


    Looking at his anxious gait, I knew he must have seen something. I didnt askand followedcloselybehind him.


    When we were close to the peak, we heard Baji and the others screamingand screeching. From the source of the sound, they seemed to be at the ceSenior Shuand I had camped before. Worrying that we would be busted, I crouched and moved forward. When we came near, we finally saw the two freaks!


    They stood on bothsidesof the trap Bajis team had dug before. Baji and his people were lining up and jumping into the trap one after another. When a man jumped into the pit, he would scream horribly


    After everybody had jumped into the pit, the freak wearing white clothes lifted his head to see the bright moon and roared. One more time, I heard the fox cry.


    Finally, I knew it was him who had madethestrange sound. I clenched my fists and continued to watch. After the freak in white roared and cried for a while, he exchanged looks with the freak in ck. Then, they grabbed the shovels andstarted to fillthe pit!

 Chapter 609: The Appearance of Tamed Corpses

    Chapter 609: The Appearance of Tamed Corpses


    As they were about to bury Baji and his people alive, I couldnt stand still anymoreandjumpedout. Idirectlunchedthe Emei Piercer, whichheaded forthe freak in white!


    With my arm strength, I knew my weaponwould stab him. Unexpectedly, the Emei Piercer nged as if it had hit a metal sheet. Then, it fend stabbeddeeply into the ground.


    I was stunned. The two turned aroundand staredat me coldly.They cried,Youre courtingdeath!


    Screwyou!


    After a short trot,Senior Shusuddenly jumped and moved through the air. He kickedthe ck freaks neck.


    His kickwas so fullof strength that Iwas stunned. However, the freak wearing ck clothes didnt evenflinch. He stood and receivedSenior Shus kick directly. Then, hegrabbedSenior Shus leg and hurled him several meters away asifhe was just a sack of rice.


    Ouch


    Senior Shurolled on the ground. He screamedthen retreatedto my side.These guys arent humans. They are tamed corpses!


    What?Tamed corpses?


    Instinctively, I took a few steps back. The masters in Vietnam and Myanmar could tamecorpses to create monsters.A tamed corpse wasnt much different from azombie. Except, the tame corpses had some simple intelligenceandcould mimic human movements. Themost powerful onescould even mingle with living people and no onewould recognizethem.


    Tamed corpses first appeared in the Han Dynasty. At first, the tribes in the South used this technique to stop the imperial court forces from the Central ins. However, with the progress of society, more and more tame masters started to use their taming technique to harm people. Tamed corpses had be evil.


    I had learned about tamed corpses from my grandpa. I had never expected that I would bump into them here. Giving us no time to think, the two tamed corpses started to attack me andSenior Shurespectively.


    As the Emei Piercer was useless, I had to yank the Sirius Whip. Iaimed at the white corpse!The first whip sounded like it had hit an empty iron barrel.ck smoke emitted from the corpseasit shakily hoppedonits spot.Still, the white corpse charged again. Both of his arms aimed at my chest like a pair of giant pincers.


    Hemoved so fast that I couldnt attack again with my whip. I had to grab his arms instead.


    Unexpectedly, my strength was nothing to him. Myholdwas shaken off easily. Then, hetried to grab atmeagain. I took a deep breath andput mypower into my right hand tosh at the important acupoint on the corpses head.


    But before I could hit him, my arm felt a sharp pain. I reacted fast and retracted my arm. There were a few holesthat reachedthe bones! Blood immediately gushed, numbing my arm.


    It turned out the corpses fingernails suddenly grew aslong asdaggers. He had used his fingernails to stab me.


    I wasnt an equal opponent of this corpse. And now, as my arm was wounded, I couldnt afford to makeanother wrongmove. I gritted my teeth and moved aside before the corpse stormed toward me one more time. At the same time, my other handshed the Sirius Whip at the corpses back!


    Thesetwotamed corpses werenttop-tierones. The one in front of memoved stiffly, so it couldnt avoid mysh. It trembled when the Sirius Whip hit him.


    It was the chance I was waiting for! Seizing the time while he was shaking continuously, I rushed behind him and directly hit the nape of his neck five or sixtimes.


    ording tomon knowledge, the nape of the neck wasafatalweaknessof tamed corpses. The tamingmasters could control the corpse through a wisp of corpse energy or gas theydstored in the nape of the corpse. When the nape was hit or broken, the corpse energy would be released, whichwoulddeactivatethe corpseandturnitback into a normal corpse.


    After severalhitsin a row, the white corpsesnape was broken. I could seeawisp of white corpse gas lingering there.


    After hitting thest whip, I tried to ignore the heart-piercing pain inmyright armas I broughttwo fingers together to make a sword. I thendirectlystabbed my fingers into thecenter of hisnape!


    Shsss!


    As soon as my fingers poked through it, the white gas sizzled like hot ironmaking contact withcold water.


    A horrible pain was sent to me through my fingers.I instinctively retracted my handandchecked my fingers. There were so many blisters!


    The white corpse slowly turned to see me withhisbloodshot eyes.Suddenly, he opened his mouth and roared.


    Iknow youre afreakingfox. Can you stop screaming now?! I cursed then ran toward the Emei Piercer stabbed into the ground.


    The white corpse followed me.However, since I hadreleasedhis corpse energy, his movementswere slowed down.


    When I reached for the Emei Pierce, I deliberately acted as though I was about to fall. The white corpse bought it. He directly leaned forward with his armsthrustout like a pair of sickles, aimingat my chest.


    When he was about to reach me, I rolled a few meters away and jumped up like a koi carp jumping out of the water.Then, Idirectly stabbed the Emei Piercer into the wisp of corpse gas.


    Shsss


    The white corpse froze then fell. I stirred the Emei Piercer inside the corpses nape as I was afraid that it would move again. After I confirmed that the corpse gas had already vanished into the air, I heaved a sigh of relief.


    Then, the corpse wearing white garmentstransformedat a speed the naked eye could observe. In the end, it had be a fox with white fur.


    I was stunned, butsoon, I got it. It was a fox spirit that couldshapeshiftintoahuman form. Its corpse was made into a tamed corpse after it died. Thatwas why I had heard the fox cry!


    I stopped watching the fox spiritand turnedto seeSenior Shu.Hewas using the Holy Mother Scepter to fight against the ck corpse. No one had the upper hand yet. However, I could see thatSenior Shuhad many chances to stab the Holy Mother Scepter into the corpses nape,but he didnt


    I hesitated for a whilebeforegrabbingthe Emei Piercerand dashingtoward them. Although I knew I couldntde lot ofdamage to thecorpse, I could distract him for a while.


    Soon, the ck corpsehadthelower handas the two of us were attacking him. He turned and rushed into the forest.


    His movementexposedhis nape to us. Iraisedthe Emei Piercerand wasabout tohithim.


    However, Senior Shugrabbed my armand muttered, After him.


    Understood!


    I readSenior Shusmind. Even if wedealt withthe two tamed corpses here, wewouldnt be able to solve the problem thoroughly. The real trouble-maker was the tamingmaster hiding in the dark.


    That person must know about us already. We needed to get him as soon as possible.


    Tamingmasters were the sort of people that would take revenge foratrivial offense. As we had messed with his business and killed his tamed corpse, we had a big grudge against us now!


    The ck corpse ran slowly at first. However, as soon as he got deep into the forest, he elerated. Fortunately,Senior Shuand I were also good at running. We didnt lose track of him.


    The corpse was running toward the other nk of Mount Horse Saddle, which was on the opposite sideofthe path we had taken to get to the mountain. Inadvertently, wedleft Mount Horse Saddle to an unknown mountain nk.


    At this time, the corpse wearing ck clothes had slowed down.He also turned around to check on us from time to time, just as if he wanted tosee if we were stillfollowing him.Senior Shuthought for a short while then directly sped up.


    Strangely, the corpse stopped running. As we came closer to him, we saw a cold, dark smirk on his face. His sharp teeth sparkled coldly, which lookedrathereerie.


    I didnt know why, but I felt restless and worried. A bad premonition aroseinmy heart. I grabbedSenior Shus arm.Somethings wrong.


    Huh?


    Senior Shuwas bewildered. Then, he acted as though nothing had happenedand continuedto approach the corpse. However, he didnt let go of my arm whilesniffing around.


    Afterwe had walkeddozens of meters,Senior Shus arm suddenly shook. I looked at him and saw hehadayer of cold sweat on his forehead.


    Dont panic. On three, we jump. Understand?


    Senior Shus gaze didnt leave the ck corpse when he hurriedly talked to me. I didnt know what he had found, but I nodded to show him that I got it.

 Chapter 610: Human Bomb

    Chapter 610: Human Bomb


    One


    Two


    Senior Shuslowly counted. The ck corpse seemed to recognize our intention. Hesmirked and thenrushed toward us.Senior Shupanicked and screamed, Three!


    Immediately, we turned around and rolled down the slope. At the same time, an explosion sounded that shook my eardrums. Itleft me with buzzing ears for quite a long time.


    Having rolleddown a couple of dozen meters, I was finally able to pull to a full stop. I turnedto look inthe direction of the ck corpse.I was stunned to see that it was now a sea of fire.


    We''re lucky that you pulledmy arm. Thetaming masterinstalled dynamite into that ck corpse!Senior Shupointed at the gorge where we were standingon and spoke withfright. If therewasnta slope behind us, we would have beendeadtoday!


    I was bewildered, but soon, I knew the situation wasnt as simpleas itappeared. If thattaming masterdecided to denote the ck corpse from his hideout in the dark, it meant he must be around. He didnt want us to spot him.


    Im sure hes around, but we cant and shouldnt chase after him!


    Senior Shuread my mind.


    He also regretted it. Anyway, this ce is the border between China and Myanmar. If we move further, Im afraid wewillget ourselves in trouble.


    Myanmar had countlesstaming masters, and most of them lived in the depths of the mountain rangeson the border between the two countries.Senior Shus worries were necessary. However, I was unwilling to give up just yet. On the way back, I feltdepressed.


    Dont be down. Im sure thetaming masterwille to us within three days.Senior Shforted me.


    Are you his father? How do you know? I was somewhat mad.


    Senior Shuburst outughingand ppedthe back of my head. Were here and were blocking his way to fortune. Of course, hewould be even more worriedthan us!


    I had toadmitthatSenior Shualwayshada clearer picture of the situation thanme. Afterlistening to histheory, I felt atease. On the way back, we heard people screaming from the trapping pit.Senior Shuand I exchanged looks and the memorycameback to us.Baji and his hunters were still down there!


    We hade to save them,butthe tamed corpses distracted us. We hadpletely forgotten about them. Fortunately, the tamed corpses had just forced them to jump into the pit. Besidessome minor injuries, Baji and his team were all right.


    What happened? Baji askedas soon ashewas rescued. It seemed he knew that he was bewitchedearlier.


    I didntwaste time.Pointing at the white fox carcass, I told him about the situation, including the explosion caused by the ck corpse. In the end, I told them not togoto the mountain to do night watches anymore.


    No matter what, thetaming masternow wanted to take revengeonmyself andSenior Shu. Before we gotintothe final battle, we had to ensure thatthegraves on the mountain wouldnt be robbed again.


    Baji didnt leave. He asked, Is there anything we could help with?


    The other people around us also expressed their ideas. I didnt understand what they were saying. However, from their high spirits, it wasnt hard to guess that they wanted to fight shoulder by shoulder with us.


    Baji, you being safe and sound is the best support you can give us.


    I was touchedand lookedat those honest Achang people. You know, the difference betweenourtwo professions is as big as the valley between these mountains. You dont know our job. Im sorry, but you cant help us.


    Baji looked lost.However,he soon epted this fact. They lingered for a whilethendescended the mountain.


    After seeing Bajis team off, I askedSenior Shu, What should we do next?


    Senior Shuput on a stern faceand gave mea faint answer.Wait!


    Butisnt it a meaningless thing to do right now?


    I was speechless.Howcouldwe just wait? We should prepare something, right?


    Senior Shushook his head. We cant prepare for this. When thetaming mastees, hewillwatch us for a while before showing up. Hewillchoose the best chance to attack. Compared towastingour minds to prepare, its better to rest and recover our strength for the next battle.


    In thiskind of situation,Senior Shuhad never missed themark.I tried my best to calm down and returned to the hotel. AlthoughSenior Shusaid that we didnt need to prepare anything, he had adhered a few talismanstoour windows. While putting up the talismans, he said miserably, If my life-bound rat was still alive, wewouldn''t have beenin such a passive situation


    Ibecameemotional. After this case, Im sure we can find the Undead Grass to save the rat, grandpa!


    Except for those talismans, we didnt arrange anything else. However, we kept our life-protecting weapons within reachso thatwe could grab them at any time.


    I had used up the power of the Sirius Whip while dealing with the white corpse, and itwouldnt recover within ashorttime. I decided to putthe Sirius Whipinmy bag,the Emei Piercer on the nightstand, and the Yin and Yang Umbre next to me. I evenputa few talismans intomypockets. After preparing everything, Iiddown and slept.


    I had slept through the night and nothing strange had happened. When I woke up,Senior Shuwas still sleeping. I woke him up for a simple breakfast, thenwe wentto the most famous attraction in Tengchong,Heshun Ancient Town.


    The Heshun Ancient Town was built in the Ming Dynasty. At that time, the imperial court had sent the army regiments here to base, which also allowed the soldiers in the Central ins to marry and settle down in this area. After almost one thousand years of progress and umtion, this ce had be a nationwide famous ancient town. Not only was it famous for the beautiful ancient towers,but the most interesting feature of the town wasthe diversity of people living here. Theinner partof Heshun Ancient Town was builtingenuine Hanstyle, and many structures reflected the special features of ancient Chinese architecture. It was worthy of the title of cultural sacred ce.


    While wandering around the ce, I felt the spirit of the men from the Central ins leaving their hometowns to this border area to protect their country. This strong patriotic sentimentalongwith the nostalgia made every brick and tile of the path underneath our feet full of love for the mothend.


    If I can live until Imof old age, I will buy a house here, saidSenior Shu.


    Arent you still alive and kicking?Why would yousay something like that all of a sudden?


    You will knowter. There are some things you can avoid, andthere arealsosome thingsyou cannot.Senior Shupatted my shoulderand smiledfondly.


    I didnt feelfortable when he acted like that. People said thatfifty-year-old men could see the heavensdecision.Senior Shuwas older than fiftyyears already. Did he foresee something thathe wasnottellingme?


    I decided to ask him. However, he didnt say anything, andI had to give up that thought.


    In the afternoon, we went to the martyrs cemetery. This ce mainlymemorated the Kuomintangs soldiers who had sacrificed their lives during the war against the Japanese. It was also the first cityto berecovered during the Chinese War of Resistance.


    The Kuomintangs soldiers had cooperated with the local peopleand foughtbloody battles for almost four months before they finally wiped out the Japanese army to take the victory.


    Tengchongwasthe gatewayto SouthwestChina. Getting Tengchongwas of great importanceto the country. Looking at the historical photos that depicted the bony bodies of the soldiers, I felt their bold, patriotic spirit. They hadpersistently protected their mothend against the invaders. Thinking about a piece of news I had readthat insulted the soldiers, I felt somewhat lost.


    In fact, duringapeaceful time, soldiers had more difficulties to deal with than intimes ofwar. People nowadays thoughtthat the army hadbe a burden to the country!


    For three days in a row,Senior Shuand I traveled around Tengchong. After we had visited all the famous attractions, we hadnt seen thetaming masteryet. I became restless. Senior Shu, can we thinkof away to lure him out?


    Be patient. I have a feeling that he will take action tonight.


    Senior Shustroked his mustache. If he didnthave a serious expression, I wouldhave thoughtthat he was just joking!

 Chapter 611: Burmese Taming Master

    Chapter 611: Burmese Taming Master


    At around twilight, I was hungry. I went to the street to have some food.Before I entered the hotel, I bumped into a man rushing out. All the food Ihadbrought back forSenior Shuwasscatteredon the ground.


    I was mad, but the man looked as though he had something very urgent to do. He didnt even say sorryand left.


    Where do you think youre running to?!


    Senior Shurushed downstairs. When he saw me, he was surprised. Then, he angrily yelled,Kid, after him! Hurry up!


    I got it now. That manwas a possible suspect. I gritted my teethandchased after him.


    Senior Shu, is he thetaming master? I asked while running.


    When I bumped into himon thepatio, I saw his face. Although he didnt have a nice appearance, he didnt give meabrutal feeling. In short, he didnt look like ataming masterto me.


    Senior Shuwore a dark face. Hiseyeskepttabsonthe man running ahead of us.


    The sky was dark now, and there werent many people on the street to the suburbs. I felt something was strange.


    I frowned and asked, Senior Shu, dontyou feel that mans strange?


    Ah?Senior Shugruntedskeptically. He halted. The other man also halted. He looked as though he was waiting for us.


    I finally got it.Senior Shu, he seems tobe luringus somewhere! We didnt bring anything with us. If we follow him, Im afraid it wont be safe.


    While talking,I got a message on my phone.I read the message and my heart sank. Instinctively, I clenched my fists.


    What happened?


    Baji said that another tombonthe mountain has been robbed! I gritted my teeth.


    Senior Shulooked surprised. Then, he said resolutely, We should get that man first.


    I nodded. Then, whileSenior Shuwas running ahead of me, I discreetly read the spell to beckon a spirit. Immediately, I asked the little ghost Id invitedto carry me away from this ce.


    It wasnt Baji who had sent me the message. It wasfrom Senior Shu. He didnt see me anywhere when he woke up, so he texted me to ask me where I was.


    After receiving the text, Iunderstood the situation. TheSenior Shuin front of me was fake. Thetaming masterhad impersonated him, and the despicable-looking man that was trying to lure me wasaghost oralow-ranking corpse thetaming masterwas keeping.


    His moves were stiff. When he ran, his limbs didnt coordinate well. Previously, Iwas in a rush,so I didntnoticethese features.


    It wouldnt be practical to sendSenior Shua text now. Thatwaswhy idall of myhopesona random wild ghost.


    Shortlyafter I read the spell, a little ghost came and took me away.Once Senior Shus figure disappeared from theview, I sighed in relief.


    But then, I found something was wrong. At this speed, it would take this little ghost only five minutes to take me back to the hotel. However,wed been moving for twenty minutes already, and ithadnt stopped. I smelled danger here. I grabbed the talismans in my pocketandcoldlyshouted, Where do you want to take me?


    As soon as I said that, the ghost turned to me. I finally saw its face. This ghost was wearing traditional Burmese clothes and had a few piercing studs on his brows.Hewas a Burmese ghost.


    I suddenly recognized thatthe ghost I had beckoned was probably prepared bythetaming master.Senior Shuhad told me that thistaming masterhad the taming skills of the masters from the South Sea.


    The South Sea was the old collective name for Vietnam, Myanmar, and the other Southeast Asian countries. As this ghost was wearing Burmese clothes, thetaming masterwasclearlyfrom Myanmar.


    I was enraged. I took out a talisman and palmed it on the ghost. The ghost shivered then slowed down.


    Before I could heave a sigh of relief, the ghostbecame crazy. It started movingfaster and faster. I tried a few moretimesandended up using all of mytalismans. Yet,the ghost was still running.


    It seemed thetaming masterwanted to kill me tonight! I gave upstruggling asI needed to save my energy.


    The only weaponsI had now that could expel the evil spirit werethe bloodfromthe tip of my tongue and my fingers. And, I could invite someimmortals. Inacritical moment, I could invite Lu Dongbin to assist me.


    Half an hourter, the ghost finally stopped. Before I couldnd safely, the ghost fled. I fell from a height of two or three meters in midair. My back hit a rock. My throat felthot,and I spat out a mouthful of blood.


    I endured the paininmy back and got up. I looked around and found myself in the middle of the ygroundinan abandoned school.


    In front of me was a row of seriously damaged ssrooms. The building had three floors, and thered-paintedslogan was still visible.The foot of the buildingwascovered with grass while the roof was rickety with rusted steel pipes. The entire schoollookedpitch ck except for thest roomonthe first floor which had flickeringcandlelight.


    Thetaming masters in there!


    I turned and saw that the gate of the school was also in that direction. Without thinking much, I wanted to seize this chance to run away.


    When I reached the gate, anotheroneappeared in front of me, identical tothe previous one. I took a deep breathanddisbelievingly turned around.The gate I had just passed throughturned out to be theone by thessrooms.


    Damn it! I cursed and unbuckled my belt. I pulled itout of my trousers andheldit in my hand. With rage, I stormed toward the room with thecandlelight.


    Not onlycould thetaming mastercontrol the tamed corpse, but he could alsoassumesomeone elses appearance. And now, he was controlling something that looked like anillusionmaze. He sure was intimidating! I knew I had to engage in a fight with him to get out of here. Moreover, that dudedid not seem to wantto leave his room.


    When Igotthere, I noticed it was an office. I kicked the door open.


    A tan-skinned manofaround forty or fifty years old was sitting in the office. The mans eyes sparkled maliciouslyasheadmiredsomething in his hand. I recognized it was a skin mask.


    Appearance Shifting Technique? Seeing the realtaming master, I blurtedout instinctively.


    He nodded, then pointed at a wooden stick next to him. He spoke with amusement.This is what you have been chasing after.


    Youre quite something, arent you? I wore a smile on the surface, but Iquietlytook a deep breath. He was much tougher than I had imagined.


    Thetaming masterfuriously snarled, Every profession has its own rule. What do you and that old manlike so muchto disturb my business? You even killed my tamed corpses!


    Rule? I sneered andsaidwith disdain,You unearthed other peoplestombs. Did you talk about the rule at that time? Moreover, a foreigner like you is robbing tombs in China. Any Chinese withaconsciencewouldnt ept that!


    I knew thistaming masterwas intimidating. To avoidapassive situation, I immediately kicked him as soon as I said that.


    It seemed thetaming masterhad expected my attack. He swiftly took a step backward and knocked me to the ground.


    Go die! His face twisted evilly. He took out a Nepalese saber that was glowing in the lightand aimed itright at my throat!

 Chapter 612: Detoxify the Taming Five-Poison

    Chapter 612: Detoxify the Taming Five-Poison


    I was hurtall overand didnt have the strength to counter him. I closed my eyes and waited for myst moment toarrive.


    Then, agold light shed.I heard metal nging, justas thoughweapons were hittingeach other. I opened my eyes and was thrilledtoseeSenior Shunext to me. He had used his Holy Mother Scepter to parry thetaming masters Nepalese saber.Senior Shulooked at me andsmiled. Then, hetook the Emei Piercer from his waistand threwitatme.


    My desire to live was awakened. I grabbed the Emei Piercer and used it to support the weight of my body. I triedto get up on my feet.


    Hey,dont you feel ashamed whiledealingwith alittlekid like him?


    Senior Shus opening remarks were always provoking. He held the Holy Mother Scepter horizontallyin front ofhis chest, aiming forthe head of thetaming master.


    Thetaming masterrolled his eyes in worry. Most of thetaming mastersthatcould keepcorpses and ghosts had a fatal weakness: Their closebat skills wereawful!


    These people were good at harmingothers while staying hidden. Today, he had shownup to kill me because he knew that I didnt bring anyweapons with me. He believed that he couldget rid ofme here. However,Senior Shuhad abruptlyshownup, whichmessed up his n.


    Doyou really think youremy opponent?said thetaming mastercoldly. Then, hetook somethingoutofhis pocketand threw itatus.


    I knew it was justasmoke grenade, so I boldly jumped into the thick smoke and screamed, Senior Shu, hurry! After him!


    Unexpectedly,Senior Shudidnt run afterhim. With a pale face, he looked at me in panic. Not good


    Whats wrong? Im all right. I thought that the fog was toxic, but I feltalright.


    If Im not wrong, kid, you are under his tamingtechnique!Senior Shusaid with a sullen face. Gritting his teeth, he lifted me. With the Holy Mother Scepter in his hand, he rushed outside.


    When we came to the gate of the school, I saw the Holy Mother Scepter release a gold hue gas that formed an arrow.Senior Shufollowed the lead of the arrowand ranwithout a careforthe obstacles in front of us, such as the wall or the dark cliff.


    Everywhere we passed, the surroundings turned into a normal mountainous trail.After walking for half an hour, the gas from the Holy Mother Scepter disappeared.Senior Shuexhaled and put me back on the ground.


    Senior Shu, howdidyou find me?


    I knew you were tricked by that man after checking the hotels surveince cameras.As forhow I found you, hahahaSenior Shusniggered disdainfully. Kid, did youdo a badthing in the hotel today?


    I looked at the Emei Piercer in my hand and realized that he had visited my room.I recalledthe used tissues in my roomandblushed.Senior Shupatted my shoulder. Oh, its understandable that young men sometimes want to have fun.If it werent for theessence on the tissue, I wouldnthave beenable to find you.


    On the way back to the hotel, my back felt itchy. I kept scratching it.Senior Shus face grew darker as he walked faster.


    When we got to the hotel room, I felt like hundreds of thousands of ants were marching on my back. I hated that I couldnt just simply use a knife to cut off that piece of skin.The tamingtechnique hadbegunto work on me.


    Senior Shuasked me toy facedown on the bed. He heated a small knife on the me of a lighter. Then, he pricked a holein myback and squeezed some blood into a wine tumbler. How do you feel now?


    Comfortable I answered. Before I could finish, a heart-piercing pain came from my wound. It felt like my entire body was being roasted above a big fire. I tried not to scream, but the flesh of the cut on my back convulsed.


    Its good that you got just theTaming Five-Poison.


    While I was in pain,Senior Shuexhaled in relief. He showed me the wine tumbler. The red blood inside had turned dark. Many bean-sized wormsfloatedin there.After takinga closerlook, I shiveredwhenI recognized those were small scorpions!


    He must have collected your blood while fighting with you. Fortunately, its just aTaming Five-Poison. If it was something stronger, Im not sure I could have saved you,Senior Shusaid sternly.


    I recognized that Idbeen extremely foolish to jumpinto the fog. I said through gritted teeth, Please help medeal with it.


    Senior Shunodded. You will feel alot of painwhile Im helping you. Be patient.


    Then, he took out somethingthat lookedlike a long wallet. When he opened it, I saw rows of silver needles.


    He stabbed all the needles into my back and took them all out after a while. Then, he pouredsaltwateron my back.


    Aaahhh!I couldnt help but scream. My back felt like it didnt belong to me anymore.Senior Shulifted me and punched right at my chest!


    He had controlled his forcewell so thatIwouldn''tfeel much pain. However, my chest felt sostuffythat I had tocurlmy body into a ball.


    Senior Shuturned to my back again and poured another bowl ofsaltwater. I couldnt stand this. I slumpedtothe edge of the bed and vomited.


    Around five minutester, I felt better. Then, I saw that I had vomited all the scorpion eggs!


    All right, go sleep in my room!Senior Shuwaved his hand at me. It seemed theTaming Five-Poisonwas solved. I didnt linger. I wentto his room andsleptright away.


    When I wokeup thenext morning, my back was still hurting. However, my whole body felt light and flexible,justas if I had been reborn.Senior Shutold me that while treating theTaming Five-Poison, he had identally opened up the acupoints in my body, which promoted my blood cirction. Thatwas why Ifelt so refreshed.


    I thought to myselfthatiftaming masters could use this sort of skill to treat peoples sickness, it would be so wonderful. They could have both wealth and fame. Why did they have to walk on the evil path?


    Senior Shusaw that Ihadrecovered.


    He saidwith a sullen face, We have todeal withthattaming mastertonight. Weve spent enough time on him. If wewaste anymore time, wewont be able tosave my life-bound rat.


    What should we do?


    I agreed withSenior Shus fight fast, win fast point of view. However, I didnt know how to lureoutthetaming master.


    Senior Shusneered coldly.If he likes to y with appearancechanging, we willgo alongwith him!If Im right, heshouldstill be lurkingin the dark. I will disguisemyself as youandgodownstairs alone. I think he will do it again.Then, we will trap him!


    I understoodSenior Shus idea. He wanted totake advantageof the fact thatthetaming masterlooked down on me to capture him.


    What can I do to help you? As we didnt have any otherideas, I reluctantly agreed with him. However, subconsciously, I thought that itwouldnt beeasy to trick the other party.


    Senior Shuasked me to stay upstairs and keep watch. As soon as something expected happened, Iwouldshowmy face. If Senior Shufailed and let thetaming masterrun away, I should jump into help him.


    At noon, the sunlight was scorching.Senior Shuand I were sitting in our room, eating watermelon and chatting. Suddenly, someone called me. I walked out and saw it was the hotel owner. He was bringing two big carton boxes that he was having difficulties lifting.


    Seeing mecrane outmy neck from upstairs, the hotel owner looked relieved. He gingerlysaid, Brother, could you pleasee down here and give me a hand?


    All right! I agreed with him. There were many hostels and homestays in this area. Almost all houses in this ce had been renovated to be hostels. However, there werent many peoplethat stayed in them. Icould bethe only young man in this hotel.


    When Iwentdownstairs, I saw the owner climbing the stairs. Ill help you carry that. You cango fetchthe rest of thestuff.


    What do you mean? The hostel owner looked bewildered.


    I was surprised. Then, I returned to my room and pressed myself by the window to watch.Another hostel owner was waitingfor me at the patio!


    I turned andsaidtoSenior Shu, The hotel owner outside is probably a fake one.


    Yeah?Senior Shuwapletinghis face-shifting technique. Hesmirked and said,I want to see who disguises himself better!


    He quickly fiddled with his face and applied some strange potions. Immediately, he wore my face.


    Take this.In a criticalmoment, you can use italongsidetheBigDipper Sirius Spell.Senior Shugave me the Holy Mother Scepter whilegrabbingthe Emei Piercer. Then, he turned and left.


    A momentter, I sawSenior Shuwalkingaway with the taming master whileholdingabox.Senior Shus movements slowly became stiff.It seemedhe was controlledby thetaming master.


    I was worried that I would lose track of them if I stayed here. I hurriedly walked behind them. On the way,Senior Shuacted as if he had figured out something was wrong. He turned and ran. Thetaming mastergrabbed him and took him away. They disappeared from my sight.


    Histrickwas the same asbefore. I thought he wouldgoto that abandoned school. However, that school was an illusion he had made. I couldnt get in there. Feeling helpless, I had to wait at the spot they had disappeared.

 Chapter 613: Receive a Drop of Water, Repay with a Whole Stream

    Chapter 613: Receive a Drop of Water, Repay with a Whole Stream


    I thought I would hear something from them soon. However, nightfallhade andno one hade back. I became restless.


    Frankly speaking, I wasnt worried aboutSenior Shus safety. Moreover, if thattaming mastercoulddefeathim, he would have alreade back.


    While waiting restlessly, I heard someone screaming. Reflexively, Iwentto check. The scenery was the same as before, and nothing had changed yet. I knew they were fighting inside the fantasy scene. I pricked up my earsand triedto listen.


    Indeed, I heard metal nging, as well asSenior Shuand thetaming masterscreaming and shouting. From the noise,Senior Shusounded much more intimidating. It seemed hissurprise attackhad seeded. I exhaled in reliefand heldthe Holy Mother Scepter tighter


    Around ten minutester, the fighting noise became clearer. Two vague figures slowly appeared in the clear site in front of me. I knew they were about to reappear, so I rushed and hid behind a big rock. Soon, they showed up.Senior Shuwas holding the blood-dripping Emei Piercer in his hand, while the other hand was clutching his chest. He seemed to be wounded.


    Thetaming masterwas in aneven worse condition thanSenior Shu. His clothes were ragged, and hehadso many cuts on his body. He was staggering since he had lost a lot of blood.


    At thismoment, I was behind him. I had estimated the distance and prepared to storm out to attack him from behind.


    Before I could take action, thetaming mastersmiledand pointedatSenior Shu. Hey old man, I admit Im not your opponent. But have you ever thought about why I waiteduntil nightto fight against you?


    I recognized that he had a backup n! I retreated behind the rock and observed. Then, I heard fox cries from every direction!


    It was the same soundasthe white fox spirit I killed before.Wasnt he dead? I was frightenedand lookedaround.I saw sevenor eight corpses wearing whitegarmentsingfrom all directions. They besiegedSenior Shuand jumped toward him.


    Senior Shuonly had the Emei Piercer in his hand. He couldnt confront all of them. I gritted my teeth and was about to jump into the fight. Suddenly, the Holy Mother Scepter vibrated.


    I remembered whatSenior Shuhad told me. My eyes turned bloodshot. I started to approach thetaming master. As he was focusing onSenior Shu, he wouldnt be aware of my presence.


    Whenthe distance was close enough, I immediately read theBigDipper Sirius Spell. I jumpedand thrustthe Holy Mother Scepter right at hisbackwith all of my strength.


    It seemed the man had felt the murderous energy behind him as he turned around. When he saw the sparkling of the Holy Mother Scepter, his eyes were filled with fear. He took a step back and wanted to flee.


    I darted the Holy Mother Scepter. Thetaming mastercouldnt dodge it, so he hurried to wield his Nepalese saber. The Holy Mother Scepter released an endless magnificent gold light. It turned into a lightning bolt that hit and broke the saber, then directly pierced through thetaming masters body.


    When the Holy Mother Scepter fell, thetaming masterhad a big open wound on his bodyfrom whichblood gushed out like a stream. He couldnt believehis eyes and lookedat his wound in disbelief. In the next moment, he slumped on his knees.


    I also couldnt believe that the Holy Mother Scepter was that formidable. Then, I recognized thatSenior Shucouldntholdagainst the white corpses anymore. I hurried torescue him. Unexpectedly, before Iwentthere, they all fell.


    Kid, good job!Senior Shugave me a thumbs-up.


    I pouted my lips. Youve got such a powerful weapon. Whydidn''t youuse it earlier?


    He blew his beardand talkedangrily. Kid,youre really ignorant! The Holy Mother Scepters power needs to be activated, and that can only happen ifitrecognizes its owner. Iallowedyou to use it firstto give you a chance!


    All right, allright. How do you feel now?


    Senior Shuhintedthat he wanted to give me the Holy Mother Scepter. If it had happened before, I wouldhave beenthrilled and dlyeptedit. But these days in Tengchong, I had always felt that hewas actingas though he was arranging everything before his death. I just smiled and tried to drive the topic away.


    Ivegot a few cuts, but Im all right.


    Senior Shuwaved his hand then asked me to call Baji. When the linewentthrough, Isaidhappily,Baji, wevedealt withthe tomb robber. Your ancestors tombs are safe now!


    Yeah, thank you. Unexpectedly, Baji didnt sound happy. I felt a touch of sorrow in his voice.


    I wasnt happy withthe way he spoke and thoughtthat we had almost lost our lives to help them, and they acted as though they didnt care about it.


    When I was about to hang up, Baji said that he wanted to give us somegifts.He told us tomeet at the trapping pit tomorrow. I didnt want to receive their gifts, but I was curious. Early the next morning, I askedSenior Shutoe with me, but he didnt want to go.


    We need to find the Undead Grass, grandpa! After meeting with them, we will head to the East of Mount Horse Saddle.


    Senior Shufinallyagreed to go with me. Oh well, what kind of good stuff could Baji and his kiddo peers give us? I would rather receive a big boar leg


    It seemed he loved the roast boar leg here!


    Cheerily, we went to the trapping pit. We were shockedto seeBaji and his people wearing white clothes. There was a ck coffin behind them.


    I carefully looked at them and found that the second leader of this team, Dazhu, was missing. Baji and the others all had wounds.


    Dazhu is gone? I couldnt believe it.


    When I received the confirmation, I asked Baji, How did it happen?


    He didnt talkandslowlygotup from the ground. He handed Senior Shua box.Senior Shuopened the box. His eyes brimmedwith tears. Undead Grass... Is this the Undead Grass?


    I stood next to himandcraned my neck to see his box. Inside the small box was a gleaming blue nt. There were some dabs of dirt on it.


    So this iswhatthe Undead Grass looks like!


    Then, Baji told me their story with sobs. While we had been dealing with the tomb robber, their team had gone deep into the mountain to find the Undead Grass.


    They were the locals, so they knew that many people hade here to find this kind of nt. Although they didnt know the function of the Undead Grass, they understood that the older it was, the betterthe effects would be.


    Theyreachedthe most dangerous mountain peak and finally, they foundsome des ofUndead Grass in an old coffin. Unfortunately, they had provoked thezombieinside.


    In the end, Dazhudiedand the othersreceiveda lot of wounds. But still, they were able to bring the Undead Grass home.


    Senior Shuwas shocked for quite a long time. When he pulled himself together, he got on his knees right in front of the coffin. I followed himand criedsilently.


    It hadlefta deep impression on me.There were many times after thatwhenSenior Shuasked me why Igoton my knees at that time, and I always gave him the same answer. Youre my grandfather and you got on your knees. How could I havenotdone thesame?


    We smiled at each other because we both knew that we had kneeled to show our respect and gratitude toward the honest Achang fellows.


    Receive a drop of water, repay with a whole stream.


    This was the virtue that the Chinesewereproud of the most. But now, they were hiding deep in the mountainsandnobody could see them from the outside

 Chapter 614: The Fish Scale Disease

    Chapter 614: The Fish Scale Disease


    After returning from Tengchong, I wanted to spend more time withSenior Shu. We hapleteda few cases, but all of themwere easyotherworldly items.


    Li Mazi had recovered well after half a month. He insisted that hehadto see me.Senior Shuimmediately shooed me away. If Li Mazies, I cant live in peace.


    I felt embarrassedandwas afraid that Li Mazi would reallye here.After confirming thatSenior Shuwas all right, I bid him farewell. When I returned to my antique shop, Li Mazi was fuming and screamingin myface that Iwasn''tconcernedabout him.


    On the same day, our two families had gathered for a big lunch. At around twilight, Li Mazi and Ru Xue took their little Nianchu home. I held Yin Xinyues hand andslowly drove home.


    While having lunch together, I had alreadynoticed thatshe wasntokay. Although she looked cheerful and excited, she couldnt hide the grief in her eyes.


    Are you okay, honey? I asked when we arrived home.


    Im fine. She shook her head.


    As we had been living together for quite a long time, I knew her well. I didnt believe her words.


    I kept pestering her about it.Yin Xinyue couldnt hide itanymore. Shehugged me and cried.


    While sobbing, she said, Hubby, my parents are sick. I even invited doctors from the US to check on them. However,theycouldn''tfind the cause of their sickness. Their condition is getting worse. What should I do now?


    I was perplexed. From her words,it seemedher parentshad beensick fora while, butshe decided to tell me only today. Iguessedshedidnt want to distract me.


    I hadnt spenta lot oftime with her after getting married, andI hadnt even seen my inws yet I felt sorry and also embarrassed. I pulled her tightlyin my chest andforted her. Wife, dontworry. Im sure I can help cure your parents!


    I had spent a long time with her to calmherdown. With red eyes, she told me about her parents situation.


    A few days ago, Yin Xinyue had free time. AsI was away to deal with a case,shewent home to visit her parents. She found thatneither of themappeared to look well.


    At first, she thought that her parents were mad at her because she didnt bring her husband home to see her parents after getting married for quite a long time. But at night, she saw her father carefullybringa bucket of warm water to the bedroom. Then, she heard her mother whimpering in pain.


    Yin Xinyue was a smart woman. She immediatelyknewthat her parents were hiding something from her. She secretly peeped through the slit of the door. She screamed at the first nce.Her mother had blue scales all over her body. Her father was using a pair of scissors to help her cut the scales off.


    Her motherbledafter every cut. Although Yin Xinyue had seen a lot of abnormalsituationssince she had been with me, when it happened to her mother, she almost cracked.While crying, she asked her parents what had happened to them.


    Yin Xinyues parents sighed as they knew they couldnt hide their sickness from her anymore.


    It turned out the two of them had started to have strange and unknown itchy spots on their bodies. They scratched their skin to ease the itch and ignoredthe problem at first. Unfortunately, the situationhad gotten worse, andtheyno longer felfortable withjustscratching. It seemed theyhadsomething that wanted to drill out from under their skin. They had tried several antiseptics only to noavail.


    The old couple was worried. They visited many hospitals from modern to traditional medical practices in the big citiesandthe small viges to see what had happened to them. However, no one had found the cause yet.


    They wereold-fashioned people, so they were a little reluctant when it came to spending money on medical treatment. Moreover, as the cause remained unknown, they eventually gave upon finding atreatment. Theywenthome and followed a traditional method:To useaneedle to prick the itchiest spots. They hoped itwouldhelp extract the toxin out of their body.


    Unexpectedly, after one sleep, they had blue scalesall overtheir bodies. The old couple now recognized that the situation wasnt simple at all. However, they were quite conservativeasthey were afraid of going to the hospital for proper treatment. They were also afraid that people would call them monsters,which waswhy theyendured thepain and cut the scales.


    More scalesshowedup the next day, which looked even denser than the day before. They were baffledand knewthat they couldnt just cut the scales off. However, no one would want such alienobjectsgrowing on their bodies, so they still went ahead and got rid ofthe scales daily. Day by day, the scalesbecametougher, while they were getting weaker and weaker


    Yin Xinyuesaid,Husband, pleasesave my parents. Im sure they are being pestered byafoul thing. I didnt want to distract youwhileyou were away. But now that youre back, please help them. Im begging you!


    As she was emotional, her words werent orderly. I felt even more embarrassedand heldher tightlyinmy embrace. Wife, dont worry. Even if I have to risk my life, I will save your parents!


    Yin Xinyue didnt talk anymore. She gave me a firm nod then rested her head against my chest. After she had calmed down, we didnt linger for even a second. I packed up the Emei Piercer and the Holy Mother Pierce with some other items I would likely use and departed.


    Senior Shuhad mademe keep the Holy Mother Scepter.The Holy Mother Scepter had bothoffensive anddefensive functions, whichwasthe sameasthe Sirius Whip and the Yin and Yang Umbre.I thought that I wouldnt need the Sirius Whip. The whips poweralwaysdrained after a few times of use.In a criticalmoment, it could be my fatal weakness.


    Since it was something happeningto my family, after thinking about Yin Xinyuesfeelings, I didnt tell Li Mazi the details. I just told him that I was going to visit my inws.


    YinXinyues family came from the Daiethnic minority. However, her parents had moved North when they were young. They now resided in a small town in Rizhao City, Shandong Province. I drovecalmlythrough the night, and we arrived at the vige early in the morning.


    Yin Xinyue had told methatthe Northeastern people wereveryfriendly. If they knew that the son-inwhadeto visit his inws, they woulde to share the joy. If they came, wewouldnt be able tohide her parents sickness.


    I stopped the car at the vige entrance and took a view of the entirece. This vige was a typical Northeastern vige. The ground was paved withgravel, and since it had just snowed,itwas all icy.It gently cracked when wewalked.


    The wind blew, which made me feelchilly. Sometimes, snowfell offthe tree branches.After walking for a while, Yin Xinyue and Ihadsnowkes on our heads.


    Hercewasanormal-lookingfarmhouse. Since we had called them on the way here, her parents had woken up early to wait for us. When Yin Xinyue saw her mother, she directlywentinto her arms. The two women burst into tears.


    Her father had red-brimmed eyes. He held my hands and repeatedly weed me. Good, good. Its good that youre finally home.


    They werehonest farmers. I felt the pressure in my heart reducegreatly. Iwentinto the house and ate a bowl of beef noodles. I didnt feel cold anymore.


    I turned to talk to Yin Xinyues father. Father, please show me your wound.


    When I first saw them, their faces were strangely ashen. At that time, I thought it was because of the cold weather. But evenafter a long time of sitting in the warm room with a brazier, their faces were still pale. I was worried.


    My father-inw nodded. He unbuttoned his thick puffer and exposed his torso. At first nce, I had totake adeep breath.


    His situation was even worse than what Yin Xinyue had told me. From his belly button to his corbone, there was no ce where I could see his skin. Scales were everywhere.People would think it was a dragons belly.


    Sincehe had cut the scales daily, it had created a thickyer of bloodclotson his scales, which looked horrible.


    I frownedand turnedto my mother-inw. She gave me a confirming nod, her facetwisted.Her situation was the same.


    Didanything strange happen in your house these days? I asked.


    The scales on their bodies indicated that they had messed with something foul. If I couldnt solve this problem, they would have scales all over their bodies. At that point,evenapowerful immortal couldnt save them. I knew I had to find the cause as fast as possible.


    However, they thoughtfor a while andshook their heads. Except for the scales growing on our bodies, theres nothing else strange.


    Inodded, thenasked Yin Xinyue to bring me a small bowl of vinegar. I drank the vinegar and stood next to my father-inw. I sensed aroundwith closed eyes.


    Some powerful foul things could deliberately hide their Yin energy. The vinegar could facilitate the sense of smell and break the concealmentthe foul things had cast. Unexpectedly, after I had drunk the vinegar, I still didnt feel the existence of Yin energy in this house.


    I didnt know where tostart. For the time being, I decided to make some potions that could treat the corpse toxin.Senior Shuhad taught me and showed me how to apply them. Not long after applying the ointment, I noticed that my father-inwstarted to twist his body. At first, perhapsit was because hehad minded his image, so he didnt move much. However, it seemed he couldnt endure it for long. In the end, he rubbed his body against the wall and started to cut the scales with a pair of scissors.


    Husband,besidescuttingoff thosescales, do we have any other solution?


    My mother-inw asked Yin Xinyue to help her cut the scales.While holding the scissors, Yin Xinyue wept.Mom,scales are growingonyour body. Cutting them isnt different from cutting your flesh.


    Before I found the cause, they would have to cut the scales every day. Otherwise,oncethe scales covered their entire bodies, their deaths woulde eventually.


    After cutting the scales, they went to their room to rest. I picked up a scale from the ground and brought it to my nose to smell. It had a strong stink of fried fish. I frownedand walkedto the basin outside to take some water to clean the scale.The smell didnt disperse.


    Yin Xinyue saw thatand felthelpless.Do you have any solution?


    I hugged her. Lets wait and see. Perhaps my ointmentcansave our parents.


    However,this possibility wasnthigh.


    At twilight, they got up. My father-inw was so excited. Son, Im okay now!


    Then, he showed me his belly. I was surprisedto see thatmany scales were peeling off. His soft skin was revealed underneath.


    My mother-inw looked at meand smiled. Usually, new scales would have grownby now,but they arent growing today! I feel sofortable.


    She spun twiceand lookedat me pleasantly. It seemed the proverb was true:When the mother-inw seesher son-inw, shebeshappy.


    Yin Xinyue hadnt expected the situation tochange so quickly. She was perplexed for quite a long time. Then, hertears rolledsilently.


    She sobbed. Thank you. Thank you so much, my husband


    Wife, why are you crying?


    I wiped her tears. To thoroughly cure this strange disease, I made some more ointmentandapplied ittotheir skin one more time.


    Yin Xinyue cooked a simple dinner. After dinner, my inws went to sleep earlywhileI restlessly shifted on the bed. Icouldnt sleep as I was afraid that when we woke up tomorrow, everything would be the same. I resolutely grabbed the Holy Mother Scepter and sat in the yard, watching.


    Since that thingwasable to hide its Yin energy, I smeared oxtearson my eyelids,bit the tip of my finger,and touched my be.


    The Heavenly Temple acupoint wasaspot between the eyes. People with profound cultivation could use a spell to open their Heavenly Eye. Although I hadnt reached that level,this method could let me usethe Heavenly Temple acupoint to sense the Yin energy!

 Chapter 615: Asking Chuyi for Help

    Chapter 615: Asking Chuyi for Help


    I was soconcentratedthatI didnt sleep for the whole night. When I heard the roosters crow in the vige, I knew it was almost dawn. I exhaled and rxed. However, I didnt dare to sleep now. I had toendurefor a littlelonger!


    After the sky had turnedpletely bright, I saw my father-inwwalkout of his room. Iwentto him. Father, did you sleep well? How do you feel now?


    Son, youve been out here watching the whole night? My father-inw looked at me in awe.He was touched.


    Before I answered him, he pulled up his shirt. I could see more and more soft skin on his belly.Althoughthere would besome scars, people would never know that he used to have scales there. It seemedSenior Shus secret ointment worked well.


    I went to my room and slept without having breakfast.


    I woke up in the afternoon. Yin Xinyue took me to see the wheat field. The snowwasmelting. I saw the white and greeninthe fields. The magnificent horizon in the far distance gave the scenerya gentle touch.


    Weactedlike kids. We scattered some corn kernels on the groundandset up a simple trap with a basket and a stick in hopes of catching some birds. At around twilight, we got seven or eight birds. After they had eaten up all the kernels, we released them.


    The weather during the day wasprettygood. At twilight, therewas a redafterglowonthe horizon. I didnt mind the dirty groundand pulledYin Xinyue to lie on the ground with me. Yin Xinyue giggled continuously. I had never seen her so happy before, which sweetened my heart.


    People saythat happytimesdon''st long. However, I thoughtthat they were being too greedy, which is whythey thought it was too short. The world keeps moving. How could we ask for eternity?


    For the next two days, Iwatchedoutside our parents room. Nothing had happened during thenights. My inws recoveredquickly. They didnt feel the pain from the scales anymore, and theyhad regainedcolorson their faces.


    However, as I had stayed up a few nights in a row, my body couldnt put up with it. On the fourth night, the whole family told me not to watch tonight. I thought that they were all right now, so I went to our room to sleep. Unexpectedly, something happened while I was sleeping.


    At around midnight, I heard a shrill. My father-inw screamed, Get lost, orI will hackyou to death!


    I realized that something foul hade to our house since my gentle father-inwwas screaming like that.I jolted up,grabbed the Holy Mother Scepter,and rushedout. However, when I came to their room, the door wasclosed. Theinside of the room waspletely quiet.


    I lowered my voice and called them. No one answered me. Instead, I heardvague snoring.


    I was doubtful.WasI dreaming just now?


    Yin Xinyue put on a coatand walkedto me. Hubby, whats wrong?


    Did you hear anything? I asked.


    Yin Xinyue shook her head. No, I didnt hear anything.


    Yin Xinyue alwayshad fast reflexes.If she didnt hear anything, it should be just a dream. I shook my head andwentback to our room to sleep.


    When I woke up in the morning, Yin Xinyue smiled at me. When we were about to leave the room, her eyes openedwide. Her voice was panic-stricken. Hubby, didsomethinghappest night?


    I followed her line of sight and saw the Holy Mother Scepter. Last night, I had tensed up, so I kept holding onto the Holy Mother Scepter.


    When I was about to exin to her, I realized that shehad seenme bring the Holy Mother Scepter to the bedst night. Why did she havesuch a strongreaction this morning?


    Indeed, when I asked her, Yin Xinyue paledand shookher head. No, I didnt wake upst night.


    My mind went nk. I immediately rushed toward our parents room.I grittedmy teethandkicked the door open. Astrongstench weed me. I saw our parents on the ground. They had dark blood allover theirbodies. It was even morefrightening to seethat they had grown scales again!


    Moreover, there were more scales this time, and the colors of the scales looked even darker and sharper; they had almost pierced through our parentspajamas.When Yin Xinyue saw that, she screamed and fainted.


    Shehad fainted because she wasworried, so I didnt mind herandrushedto my father-inw. I broughtmy shaky finger to his nose


    From the time I had heard the scream until now, it had been six or seven hours. Our parents had been on the ground foralong time and had losta lot ofblood. I was really afraid that they had already left this world. If so, I couldnt forgive myself formywhole life.


    It was good that both of them were still breathing feebly. I hurriedlyusedtalismans to block some of their vital acupoints to stop thebleeding. I then applied the ointment I made yesterday on them again. I had to grit my teeth while cutting off all the scales on their bodies.


    After I had done everything, their breathing was still weakbutstable. It seemed they were unconscious because of blood loss. I hurriedly cooked a pot of jujube, chili, and spinach, which were all good for replenishing blood. Ipoured a bowl for each of them.


    Watching thembreathenormally, I exhaled. I then usedsomehuo xiang perfumeto wake Yin Xinyue up.


    When she opened her eyes, the first thing she did was look at her parents.When shesawthat her parents liveswerentat stake, she slumped again. I had to scoop her up and help her get on her feet.


    Honey, Iwasso scared. I almost lost my parents.I was so scared... Yin Xinyue repeated her words as though her mind was about to crack.


    I didntfort her, but went to take a few photos of the scales and sent them to Chuyi. I thentexted him.Do you know whatthese are?


    I thought that he would just send meamessage with some instructions. Unexpectedly, he called me. His voice was serious.Jiulin, where did you get those scales?


    As I had turned on the speaker of the phone, Yin Xinyue heardour conversation. She criedand askedChuyi to help us.


    Iwanted to talkwith him for a while before asking for his help. Butas she had already asked him, I proceeded to tell himabout the situation. Can you make time toe here and help me?


    Send the address to my phone. Before I arrive, you must try tokeeptheir disease in check! He curtly asked for the address when helearnedthat my inws were in trouble. After we hung up, I could tellthatYin Xinyuewas feelingbetter.


    With Chuyis help, Im surewe can solve the problem!We just need to ensure that your parents situationwontworsenat night. Dont worry, honey!


    Yin Xinyue nodded.Husband, Im sorry. Iwasso worried that Iwouldlose my parents


    She cried and apologized. She understood thatshe didnt trustme enough as she had directly asked Chuyi for help.


    Silly girl, Im your husband. Dont you ever tell me that!


    I kissed her tear-covered faceandcollected all the scales, burningthem.


    Our parents stillhadn''t wokenupwhen night fell. Yin Xinyue was worriedand asked,Whats wrong?


    Dont worry. They are old andhavelost a lot of blood. Its normalfor them to sleepfor quite a long time. Its good for their recovery, hon.


    We had a simple dinner. Yin Xinyue brought a bowl of congee and asked, Can I feed my parents some congee?


    I nodded. She went to the room. In the next second, she screamedat the topof herlungs, followed by the nging noise of the bowlfalling tothe floor.


    Whats wrong?


    I sprinted in. At first nce, I sawtheword, death written on the ground in front of the bed. The word was around onemeter big. From its bright red color, I guessed it was writteninblood.


    This word hadnt been there before.Somethinghadsneaked into our parents room while we were cooking. I checked my inws. They were still breathing, which made me feelrelieved.


    However, that thinghad wanderedright under my nose,and I didnteven notice it.I felt restless and worried. Chuyi had asked me tokeep it in checkuntil he came.Would I be able to put up with it for any longer?


    Hubby, dont me yourself.


    When Yin Xinyue knew that her parents were all right, she soon adjusted her mood. Looking at my perplexed countenance, she encouraged me. Could it be scared of us?To be exact, could it bescared of you?


    What? I calmed down and thought about it.


    She had a point.I thought we had solved it a few days ago, but it seemed that thing was just biding its time.


    It couldn''t act asI hadwatchedour parents for a fewnightsin a row. Moreover,I heard themotionst night and ran to check. At that moment,theirroom quieted down, which made me think that I had seen an illusion.Perhaps that thing was really afraid of me.


    Interesting


    During the past fewyears, I had encountered countless spirits, including nativeandforeign generals, emperors, andmon people. However, no matter how strong they were, none had evershownthat they were afraid of me. Moreover, it made me skeptical. If that thing was socowardly, why would it keep pestering Yin Xinyues parents?


    I decided to testthe creatureone more time. AlthoughI wouldn''t putYin Xinyues parents in danger, I needed todiscuss it withher first.


    Yin Xinyue asked gingerly, Will they be okay?


    As long as I live, they will be okay.


    Yin Xinyue bit her lower lip. I trust you.


    I was persistent, but it wasntbecause I wanted to show off in front of her. Chuyi had agreed toe to help, and if Icouldn''t even do what hed asked of me, I would be truly useless.

 Chapter 616: The Monster Shows Up!

    Chapter 616: The Monster Shows Up!


    My inws woke up in the evening. I seized the chance while Yin Xinyue was taking a shower to ask them what had happenedst night.


    My mother-inws face twisted in pain. Subconsciously, she shiveredandpointed at my father-inw. Hereyes teared up. You should ask my husband.


    Yesterday, a monster came to our room. It lookedlike a buffalo, but ithadscales and many legs. It lookedso strange.


    Before I couldinterject, my father started to talk again. His wordswere slow, butI could hear his voice shaking. Let alone him, after listening to his description, my heart also sank.


    He calmed down and took some deep breaths to adjust himself. Hecontinued, That monsterwasso cold, like an ice rock. Your mother and I werewokenupbythe cold. We saw the monster right above our heads. Your mother fainted right at the scene. I grabbed the fruit knife at thebed standto scare it,but I could only scream once. I lost consciousnessafter that.


    Then, his face darkened. He hesitated for a long moment before speaking again. Jiulin, you should leave with Yin Xinyue! Im afraid that the monster willeafter the two of you.


    I felt a little lost. Itwas their parental care for us, but how could I leave them here?


    Father, dont worry. Illdeal withthat thing. Please trust me.


    My father shook his head persistently.We are just old people.Our timewill soo an end anyway. Dont get involved in this.


    Yin Xinyue came in withfoodright at this moment. Her face changed immediately. Dad, we are not leaving. Moreover, Jiulin isanexpert in this field. Im sure he can safely force that monster to leave.


    Sigh!


    My father sighedand lookedas though he was about tosaysomething, but my mother-inw smacked his arm. They both kept silent.


    While they were having dinner, I grabbed a stick and went to the patio to remove the snow and iceinthe room. I asked Yin Xinyue to find the family cat and stick some talismans on it.


    Yin Xinyue, I have toturnoff the brazier in our parents room. It will be pretty cold tonight, so you should prepare more nkets for them.


    I brought the brazier to the yard and poured water on it. The charcoal sizzled and quieted down. After the temperature in my parents room dropped sharply, I used the ice I had collected from the roof to arrange a Thousand Mirrors Formation.


    The so-called Thousand Mirrors Formationdidnt really have so many mirrors.Anyway, it consisted in using mirror-like objectsandarrangingthemin thedirections ofa Chinese divination technique. Withyers of mirrors, it would work like abyrinth.


    Commonly, the Thousand Mirrors Formation was used to locate spirits. Of course, powerful casters could use this formation to directly kill the spirit. I hadnt reached that level yet, though!


    Asthe monster exudedafishy stink, I was sure itwas rted to water somehow. Thatwas why I decided to use the ice insteadof a mirror.OnceI activated the formation, the crystal-clear ice could work like real mirrors. Moreover, I could make use of the icy cold to create a snow maze.


    Of course, it was just my assumption, and Ididntwish tohurtthe monster for now. I justwantedto see it.


    However,when I activated the formation, I would need to use my spiritual power. To prevent that monster from running away, I put the cat withthe talismanson itbythe back door.


    You want to use this kitty to get more time? Yin Xinyue asked as she watched memake the arrangements.


    I nodded. Cats are thenemeses of fish.Although our fathersaid that thing doesnt look likeone,becauseit smells like fish, it should live in the river.Of course, thereissome danger in this, and that thing mightattack the kitty. But in this situation, Ihave to risk it.


    After my inwshaddinner, I gave each of them a life-protecting talisman. It was to protect them from getting hurt by the Yin energy when the monster came. They had lost a lot of blood,which made it easier for theYin energy to affect them.


    Son, dont worry. Weveworkedunderthe rainand storms for decades. This cold is nothing to us. Mother tried to smile and encourage us when she saw me and Yin Xinyue so tense.


    I could only smile back at her. Yin Xinyue turned away and secretly wept.


    I frowned and ushered her to our bedroom. Yin Xinyue, dont be like this. You will discourage our parents. Its not good for them to deal with the Yin energy this way. The best weapon for living peopledealingwith Yin energy is theirunshakenbelief. You got it?


    Why was it that so many people were not afraid of death, but torment?It was because of belief. If their belief or faith was strongenough, no toxin could harm them. However, thereweren''tmany people like this in reality.


    Yin Xinyue wiped hertearsas she understood mymeaning. She pulled herself together and put on a smile. Then, she walkedout to talk with her parents.


    I scanned our room andmade use ofthegeomancyto arrange something at the window in the corner. Afterputting the Emei Piercer next to Yin Xinyues pillow, I felt much better.


    As the night was getting darker,the cewas gettingcolder. Frost had already imed our window ss panels. I checked the clock. It was almost time. I askedour parents to rest and told Yin Xinyue to go back to our room.


    In this situation, I knew she couldnt sleep. I gave her the Emei Piercer. Stay here and protect yourself.


    As for me,I had to go out to watch.


    She hugged me from behind. In a soft voice, she said,Hubby,doyour best!


    You silly wife! I turned and teasingly pinched her nose.After gritting my teeth, I climbed up to the roof.


    Thedder in Yin Xinyues house was moldedfrom an ironbar and was painted red. It seemed peoplehadntpolished it,so the steps felt rough. Every time I took a step,my fingers felt close to being frozen. After climbing to the roof, I stood up and almost tripped. Cringing, I had to squat to stabilize my center. Then, I found ayer of ice on the roof around three centimeters thick. Thisyer covered the entire roof as if it was a frozenke.


    I was surprised.I stood up andlooked around to see the other houses. The houses around were all clean! My inws were hard-working people. They wouldnt let snowfreeze ontheir roof!


    After thinking about this, I realized an issue: I had been watchingoutsidethe windows and didnt think that that creaturemighthaveefrom the roof. Moreover, Yin Xinyue and I were right outside when it came down through the chimney and wrote the word death on the ground.After hesitating, I slowly crawled to the chimney to see. I caught thestench.


    I thought to myself,The problemliesright here!


    I had just wanted to get up here to take a look, but I ended upfindingsomething important. If that thinghadedown the chimney every time it came here, I should just stay and wait.


    I moved away from the chimneyand hid.


    I had been waiting for quite a long time, but that thinghadntshownup yet. My body felt rigid in the cold already. As it had almost passed the time with the thickest Yin energy, I thought it wouldnte tonight. I decided to climb back down to rest.


    All of a sudden, a gust of cold wind swept through the ce. I tensed upand heldthe Holy Mother Scepter tightly. At the same time, I stuck a Yang Concealing Talisman on myself.


    Indeed, when the windstopped,a shadow appeared near the chimney. It looked vague at first. But then,whenit finallynded, I saw its face. Itwas so disgusting!


    It had the body of a calf but there were so many things growing on its belly. They looked likethe legs of acentipede. Its back was covered with shining scales.More surprisingly, it had dragon wsthat shone and reflectedlight.


    What What the heck is this creepy thing? I couldnt help but scream in my head while keeping my gaze on it. The beast carefully looked around then turned into a shadow. It sliddown the chimney.


    It seemed the beast hadvisitedthe house these past few days, but then ran away when it sensed my presence.


    I estimated the time and picked an icicle from the roof. Ibit the tip of my tongue to spit blood on it. Before the blood melted, I readaspell and threw the icicleinthe air.


    The icicle hovered in the air and didnt fall. The crystal-clear icicle became murky and then redas if my blood had seeped into it. Then, it flew into the room. I heard my inwsscream. My heart squeezed. I clenched my fists and continued to read the spell.


    Soon, the room lit up.Countless piecesof ice were shining like the light at noon. The monster screamed. I recognized that I was so tensebeforethat I didnt even release the cat.Luckily, the Thousand Mirrors Formation worked!


    I pulled myself togetherand thoughtthat thismonster was easier to deal with than I had thought. I jumped off the roofand rolledon the ground to reduce the force. As soon as I got up, I kicked the door oftheroom open. At first nce, I saw the monster bumping between the pieces of ice in pain. Gradually, it slowed down.


    It seemed the icewasworkingfor now. But if itwasafraid of ice, why did it make the entire roof frozen?


    For the time being, I couldnt figure out the cause. However, as I was afraid that it would break the formation, I directly aimed at the beasts head and stabbed the Holy Mother Scepter toward it.


    It wasa trickSenior Shuhad taught me.Throwingthe Holy Mother Scepterwith force could help increase its power!


    Although it was a one-timeattack, I believedit would bea fatal hitfromthis short distance!

 Chapter 617: Eight-Hundred-Mile Scaled Dragon

    Chapter 617: Eight-Hundred-Mile Scaled Dragon


    When the Holy Mother Scepter flew out, the Thousand Mirrors Formation was broken. The entire room fell into darkness.


    I recognized mymistake.The formation was supported by my spiritual energy, and I hadusedall of itwhilethrowingthe Holy Mother Scepter!Even worse, I heard a thudthat wasntthe beastsscream.The Holy Mother Scepter had missed thecreature.


    The roomwas so darkthat I couldnt see my fingers. I had to grope around to turn on the light. Then, I saw the Holy Mother Scepter stabbed into the ground. The monster was nowhere to be seen.


    Subconsciously, I went to check the chimney.Ashadow swiftly leaped up and disappeared into the dark.


    Damn! I withdrew the Holy Mother Scepter and rushed to the roof. I wanted to follow its aura to chase after it. Surprisingly, the iceyer on the roof was gone!


    It didnt meltbutdisappeared as if it had evaporated. Iunderstoodsomethingand rushedto the chimney. Indeed, there was no wisp of Yin energy left. It seemed the beast was scared of me, so it had taken the ice with it to erase its smell on the surface of the ice!


    When Ireturnedto the house, Yin Xinyue and my inws had already gotten up. Yin Xinyue hurriedly asked me, How was it?


    Sorry, I let it escape I was a little dispirited.


    Yin Xinyue frozeonher spot, but she soon got herself together andforted me. We still have a chance to get rid of it,hon.


    I could still seethe disappointment andworryin her eyes.SinceI didnt seed this time, it would be moredifficult to deal with the nexttime. This beast was ascowardlyas a rat. Moreover, it was very cautious.


    My inws looked calm. They gentlyfortedme. I carefully checked them.After confirming that they didnt get hurt, I exhaled in relief. I then squattedand tookin a deep breath.


    Soon, the sun rose from the East. I made the ointment and asked Yin Xinyue to apply ittoher parents before going to our room to sleep.


    For the next two days, I slept during the day and watchedthrough thenight. It wasnt out of my expectationthatthe beast didnte again. I felt somewhat disappointed but also lucky. Anyway, I could ensure my inws safety for now.


    Chuyi arrived at twilight on the third day. Yin Xinyue and I were so happy we almost cracked up.No matter how harsh the situation was,now thathe was here, I felt assured.


    Chuyi didnt rest. After drinking a cup of tea, he started to work.After checking my fathers soft skin that had just regrown, his frowning face loosened up. It gave me hope. Did you findanything?


    I need to check more. Chuyi waved at me. His voice was calm. Didyou keep the scales you cut from them?


    Idid.I gave him a nod and pulled out a drawer. After calling him, I knew he would need to see those scales, so I had kept a few here.


    Unexpectedly, when I opened the drawer, the palm-sized scales had all shrunk to the size of a fingernail.Moreover, theyhad grownsome coarse hair.


    I didnt know what had happened, so I called Chuyi toe and take a look himself. When he saw the scales and the thick hair, his pupils shrank. His voice grew icy cold. How could this thing survive until now?


    With a serious face, he asked, Do you know the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon?


    Yeah, its a mythical beast. Its some sort of ox. It appeared in Xin Qijis poem. Traveled eight hundred miles to the rescue, fifty banners flew in thebordend, and cameto the battlefieldin autumn. I skeptically ranted.


    But soon, I got it. I lookedat Chuyi disbelievingly, You mean, that thing is an Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon?


    Chuyi nodded. I havent seenonewith my own eyes yet, but Iveheard aboutthemfrom some old men in our Circle. This sort of beast really exists. However, they havent appeared much in history, and not many people have seen them. Thats why theythought it wasjust a legend. When I saw the picture you sent me, I thought about this possibility. However, I wasnt so sure at that time. Now, Icanconfirm the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon has reappeared!


    TheEight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon wasoriginallya fast ox. The King of Jin wanted toincrease its speed,so he fed it with countless pellets refined byalchemists. Aftereatingthe pellets, the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragongrewmore legs and scales to protect its body. Its legs and hooves also slightly changed into the primal form of dragon ws.Sure enough, the beast could run much faster!


    TheKing of Jin was so excited. He rewarded the alchemists and let them go. Unexpectedly, a few days after the alchemistsleft, theseal on theEight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon was also gone. It didnt listen to the King of Jin anymore. However, being scared by humans, it fledtothe swamp area and disappeared.


    The beast didnt die but hadastrange encounter, which gave it spiritual power. Itbecame anamphibian, but it couldnt changeitstimid andcowardlycharacter. When it saw humans, it would run away. Normally, it would stay away from people. Thatwaswhy the Eight-hundred-mileScaled Dragon was a pitiful animal.


    Chuyi looked a little emotional while telling me the story. Dont worry. The Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon wont harm people. It wonthold a grudge, either.I thinkits pesteringyour inws bymistake.


    Then whyhas itetobothermy parents again and again? It even wrote the word death on the floor! Yin Xinyue was still doubtful.


    Chuyi thought then answered, I dontthink the Scaled Dragonknows thatpestering your parents harms them. It seems tobe dependenton them.


    Eh? I gawked at him.What an awkward exnation!


    Thatcould be okay, but what about the word death?


    Before I couldask, Chuyi sighed. That wordwasnt meant foryour parents, I suppose. Perhapsthe beast was trying to tell you its situation. I think its also the reason why itspesteringyour parents. If itdoesntdo that, it will die, somehow.


    Emh


    Yin Xinyue and I were perplexed.Thiswas beyond our imagination.Still, it was true that the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon had never tried to hurt us.


    Even ifthe dragon was frightened of me, it could have found a chance to ambush me!Moreover, even if it couldnt beat me, it could have chosen toattackYin Xinyue. Yet,itdidnt doanything harmful to us.


    The night we fought, it could have taken the advantage of thedarknessto attack me, but the ox had chosen to run away instead.


    I felt morefortable knowing this detail. Ididnt know why, but Iimaginedayoung calf hiding inadark corner,licking its wounds to heal itself.Pity the little thing.


    Yin Xinyue looked a littlesad, but soon, sheregained herfocus. Chuyi, how should we deal with the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon?

 Chapter 618: The Mermaid’s Tear

    Chapter 618: The Mermaid¡¯s Tear


    Chuyi shook his headand smiled. Idont thinkthe Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragonwillshow up again. I guess it just randomly came to this ce totakeshelter.SinceJiulin used the Thousand Mirrors Formation to capture it, Im afraid it was so scaredthatitwone again.


    After Chuyi said that, I remembered theyer of ice on the roof. I told him that detail.


    He nodded.It seemsthe Scaled Dragon was hurt. It used the ice to heal itself.Sinceit has removed the ice, Idont thinkitwile back.


    Yin Xinyue and I smiled as we felt relieved. However, Chuyi still frowned. Although its gone, the situation hasntendedhere.


    What? Looking at his countenance, my heart sank one more time.


    Chuyi then exined that when a living human contacted the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon and started to grow scales, the scales wouldkeep growinguntil that person died. Moreover,sincethe victim had to trim more and more scales, their skin would beveryrough. Eventually, they would be realmonsters.


    Perhaps Chuyi was afraid that Yin Xinyue couldnt stand it. When he came to this part, hespokemuch faster. Then, he changed the topic. To solve the scale disease, the only solution is to use the tears ofawater nymph.


    The tears ofawater nymph? Yin Xinyuehad longedfor this answer.


    I was also cheered up, butquicklyfelt lostbecause I knewthat finding the tears of a water nymphwas much harder than finding the Undead Grass.I wasnt afraid of the difficulty. I was just worried that our parents couldnt wait until wefoundthe water nymphs tears!


    Water nymphstears areamermaidstears.


    Chuyis answer made Yin Xinyue perplexed. My facegrimaced.


    Mermaid?Might as wesk forUltramans tears at this point!


    ButChuyi did not seemto notice our strange countenance. He continued his exnation.


    ording to the legend,when the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon jumped into the swamp and almost lost its life, a mermaid appeared. That mermaid wanted tosavethe ox, but she wasnt strong enough. She stayed by the monsteras she was worried about it. At the moment the monsterwas about tpletely sink, the mermaid cried.


    The Scaled Dragon saw that. Its resentment and unwillingness were allswept awayatthatmoment, leaving only gratitude and love for the mermaid. The Eight-hundred-mile Dragon Scale was lucky enough to escape the swamp. However, it would never forget the mermaidstears.


    It was a sad and romantic story, but Iwasnt in themood tolisten to it. Instead, I asked with a frown, Chuyi, have you ever seen a mermaid?


    Legends aboutmermaidswereplenty, but I had never seen one before.


    Chuyi shook his head. It was the first time he didnt sound confident.Theyshouldexist, but I have only heard ofthemin legendsso far


    Then, he finished his cup of jasmine teaand lookedat us. Hisvoice was firm. Im sure I will solve this problem. Dont worry.


    I nodded. As it hade to this, we had to follow his arrangement. Do you have any idea what to do now?


    As long as we find the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon, we can find the mermaid, Chuyi said strongly. I had the same idea. The Scaled Dragon wasalso lookingforthe mermaid.And, itshould be able todo so beforeus.


    Then, he turned to ask if my inws had eaten something unusual before they got sick, like strange beef orif they drankwater fromawell or river.


    I didnt say anything, but I was also curious how my inws had bumped into the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon. It was as rare as a meteor hitting earth. How could it happen to them


    Father had thought for quite a longtime, buthe stillshook his head. At the same time, I noticed that my mother-inwseyes were twinkling. It was as though she was thinking about something


    Whenweall looked at her, she hesitated for a while before sending her husband a look. Shestuttered,Husband, could it be the wild vegetables we picked before?


    Wild vegetables?What about them? My father looked bewildered, but I had a feeling that it was the root of the problem.


    I asked,What happened when you picked the wild vegetables?


    Oh, it happenedatthe beginning of this autumn. The riverbank at the East of the vige grew a lot of fresh vegetables. Your mother and I saw themon our wayhome from the field. We thoughttheywould be delicious,so we picked some of them to boil said my father.


    Chuyi and I exchanged looks. We understood immediately that the problem came from the wild vegetables. First of all, in autumn, Shandong would be yellow and dried. How could there be lushly green wild vegetables?


    Still, whywas everyone elseall right, and only our parentshad aproblem?Could it be that noother peoplehad pickedthe wild vegetables? Or, were they the only ones thatfound that spot of green vegetables?


    So that was the problem... myfather-inwsaid when he saw our strange faces. No wonder all the vegetables were gone the next day. Your mother and I even thought that someone had cut all of theminone night.


    Mom,Dad, how could you act without thinking? Dont we have money? How could you eat things when you dont even know what they are?! Yin Xinyue burst out.After yelling for a short moment, her voice lowered as she cried. Ive been working hard to send money homeevery month. I just want you guys to have a better life. Why did you


    She covered her face and ran to our bedroom. I followed her tofort her.Later, our father took me and Chuyi to the riverbank to see.


    As it was night, there was no one walking on the street except for us.Thishelped us calm down.


    Father talkedtous while walking. The small river in our vige is actually a branch of the Yellow River. Every year, thereisa flooding season. But thesepast fewyears, the Yellow Riverhas beendrying up,and the river in our vige doesnt have much water.The people whohavea clever mindwill gothere to im some areas to grow vegetables.


    Indeed, when we crossed the bridge, I shone my shlight down and saw a vastarea ofgreen wheat. I also spotted a barren area the size of a basketballcourt,where I could see the brown soil.


    That area ofnd was right in the middle of the riverbank. There should be no reasonfor thevigersto leaveit empty. Thatwaswhy I concluded it was the spotwhere thelush wild vegetableshadgrown.I strode toward that spot.


    When wegotthere, Chuyi directly stabbed his eight-faceted Han sword into the ground. Intheblink of an eye, the entire de sank until we only saw the handle!


    I thought he would readaspell. However, he drew the sword out and sprinkled some ashes from his bag on the de of the sword. The ashessizzled like boiling water.


    After around one minute, the ashes slowly fell off the de. I was surprisedas I could smell a terriblestenchingfrom the sword.


    I see. Chuyi used a handkerchief to wipe the de before putting it backinits sheath. He smiled, but his eyes didnt. The Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon is smart. It usedthe ice here to cover its Yin energy.


    I nowrecognized that the soil underneath was really soft. It wasnt frozen. It turned out the Scaled Dragon had absorbed the ice around. The beast wasstruggling, though. Although it didnt like thecold, it had to use ice to cover itself.


    I sighed.Can you locate that beast?


    Let me try. Then, he took out a cbash and released Little Lin.

 Chapter 619: The Missing Expedition Team

    Chapter 619: The Missing Expedition Team


    It was obvious that Little Lin had good days with Chuyi.His soul had resumed its original shape. The little boy now wore a gold-sparkling red dudou. When he saw me, he started pping his hands and beaming at me. The boy didnt forget me, his first master.


    Get in there through the slit and see if you can track it downthroughits smell.


    Chuyi brought a scale to Little Lins nose. The little ghost closed his eyes to concentrate and sniffed the scale. Then, he plunged swiftly into the ground.


    Cough. Cough


    As myfather-inwwas old, hecouldnt endure the cold weather. I took off my coat andput it overhim.After turning back to see the slit the sword had madeinthe ground, I waited, feeling tense.


    Soon, Little Lin returned. He looked a little embarrassed. He shookhis head andpointedat the ground.


    Chuyi sighed and retrieved Little Lin tothecbash. Little Lin said that the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon hasrun deep into the earth.


    Except for the dead who were buried, there werea lot ofother unknown creatures in the ground. With Little Lins cultivation base, he didnt dare to enter toofarunderground.


    The Scaled Dragon made good use of the soil to cover its Yin energy. In other words, we couldnt track it down from here.


    On the way back,Ifelt a little awkward as this was a very tough case, and it had happened to my family.


    My father tried tofort me, while Chuyi put on a dark face. He saidnothing.


    When we got home, Yin Xinyue was sleepingas shedidnt get enough sleepthese days.Chuyis presencewas like a sedative to us,which madeher feel safe. I tucked her in bed and went outside to talk to Chuyi.


    Do you know where we can find water nymphs tears?


    Possibly in Laizhou Bay. Chuyi recalled then said, I remembersomeseniors mention that mermaids used toshowup in Laizhou Bay.


    When?


    Before the Reform.Therewas a big turmoil at that time,but the government hadsuppressed the news.


    There was a vige called Dragon King in Laizhou Bay, where a dam was located. The old people said it wasbuilt a verylong, long time ago. During the Shang Dynasty, this area had a horribledrought. King Tang of Shang senthis armyhere to rescue the people. They decided to break the dam in Dragon King Vige to release the water. Unexpectedly, not long after they started to dig, dark clouds began to congregate in the sky,followedby heavy rain.


    Afterward, people assumed that the dam was the Dragon Eye. Throughoutthe ages, as long as there was a drought in the area, people wouldgoto the ce to dig, and the same thinghappened every time. In the end, all the people were convinced that it was the Dragon Eye.


    After the Reform, the government sent a famous expedition team to Laizhou Bay toinvestigate theDragon King Viges Dragon Eye. However,they were beset byabrutal water nymph, whichresulted inthe deaths of the entire team.


    This expedition team was rich in expertiseas theyhad previously exploredthe Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and even the underground mausoleum in Kunlun Mountain. They had survived the hardest circumstances, but all of them were killed in Dragon King Vige. The situation was beyond shocking. The governmenttriedto conceal the news.


    Moreover, except for the members of the expedition team, many vigers had seen the mermaids. Despite the efforts of the government to hide the news, it spreadquickly.


    Chuyi kept silent. I was still curiousand asked, What happened after that?


    After that Chuyi suddenly shed atear. Except for theinstance whenthe little Daoist boy had sacrificed himself to save us, I had never seen himcrybefore. I became worriedand askedhim again.


    After that, many otherworldly merchantswentthere. They all died, including the one I loved the most.


    He lifted his head,wiped histears, and triedtosmile at me. Thank you. If it werent for you giving me this chance, Im afraid Iwould havenever thought aboutsteppingin Dragon King Vige again.


    I was baffled. I had never thought that Chuyicarried so manyburdens on his back. I felt something falling inside me.I wanted to say something, but I couldnt. In the end, I mumbled,Brother, we should go together!


    It was afact that Chuyis loved one had died in Dragon King Vige. But regardless of whetherwe could find the mermaid, how could Irefuseto go there to investigate?


    After that, wereturnedto our respective rooms to rest.Thenext morning, I told Yin Xinyue that I was going with Chuyi to find the water nymphstears.


    I knew it would be extremely dangerous this time, so I didnt tell her where we were going.Honey, stay home and take care of our parents.


    Hubby, I Im so sorry you have to take on the danger


    Yin Xinyue smiled like a tabby cat. I understood her mind. On one hand, she didnt want me to take risks. On the other hand, she couldnt standto seeher parents suffering. No matter what, it hurt her.


    Wife, stay home and wait for me. Wellbe backsoon. I stroked her silky hair. I smiledwhile feelingasharppain in my heart.


    When we were about to depart, Yin Xinyue and her mother were crying. Myfather-inwhad red-brimmed eyes like the first time he saw me. He grabbed my handandshakilysaid,Son, dont worry about us. Yin Xinyues here with us.


    To be assured, Chuyi discreetly released Little Lin before we left and asked him to stay here.Ifsomething wrong happened, hewouldnotifyus immediately.


    Laizhou Bay wasnt far from this vige. Since Chuyi drove asportscar, we got thereinfour hours. He used the navigation systemtoreachan antique street. I understood that he wanted to prepare something, so I followed him without asking.


    One hourter,Chuyihad bought atripodfrom the Xia Dynasty, a Five Thunder Heavenly Master Talisman, and a bust of Jiang Ziya.


    Linking these to the legend Chuyi had told me before, it wasnt hard to imagine how these items would work. Jiang Ziya went fishing without bait. He waitedfor the fish to bite his empty hook proactively.ording to thelegend, Jiang Ziya was a famous fisherman, so he would somewhat be a threat to the mermaid.


    The Five Thunder Heavenly Master Talisman was powerfulin that it could suppress all kinds of monsters and ghosts. At the same time, thetripodwas the symbol of power, which initself had a strong aura. But I knew the Xia DynastytripodChuyi had bought was a fake one. Hey, do you have any non whatto do with this faketripod?


    Its the best container to keep the water nymphstears. It can store the Yin energy in the tears, and we dont want the Yin energy to evaporate.


    After Chuyi said that, I noticed that the corners of his mouthcurvedinto a faint smile. I realized that he was even more handsomethanI had originally thought.


    However, it wasnt a happy journeyfromLaizhou City to the bay. Although the interprovincial roads in Shandonghadimproved a lot, the roads in Laizhou were horrible. I thought it might be because of the big traffic volume here. There were so many big trucks.


    It was a distance of a couple of dozens of miles, but wewerestuck in traffic jams several times. We finally arrived at Dragon King Vige after 3:00 PM.


    When the car pulled to a full stop, I wanted to get out to find someone to ask for the way. Unexpectedly, Chuyi grabbed my armand saidcoldly, Jiulin, do you trust me?


    I do! Whats wrong?


    He made me confused and skeptical.


    Chuyi wore a cold faceand lookedat the people moving outside. His voice was icy cold. The vigers here are xenophobic. You know,theres an80%possibilitythat the otherworldly merchants were killed by the vigers that year.


    What I was shocked. How could it be?


    Still,the national expedition team and Chuyis loved onewereall hotshots in the field,but theyhad all died.And, themon people in the Dragon King Vige werent even hurt. It spoke up about the problem here.


    Moreover,we had beenheldcaptiveby the locals more than once while solving the otherworldly itemsthroughoutChina. Since Chuyis loved onehad diedhere, my wish to go out and ask for directionswasgone. I satidly and sankinto my thoughts.

 Chapter 620: Ghost Raising Village

    Chapter 620: Ghost Raising Vige


    I noticedthatChuyi had his fistsclenchedthe entire time. I could tell he had a deep grudge against the folks in this vige.


    Could you tell me more aboutit? I asked.


    Chuyi took a deep breath, then gave me a serious look. Jiulin, leave it alone. Illhandle everything. When its over, youll know.


    He asked me to rest and prepare to take action tonight. Before I could react, he leaned back on his seat and closed his eyes.


    How could I not trust you? I just wanted tosharethis burdenwith youI sighedinwardly,then closed my eyes.


    We woke up at around twilight.Many trucks weremoving around, and a few hundred workers were moving back and forth to unload the goods. The surroundings were well-lit.


    I was a little worried. What if they workduringthe night?Willwe have a chance to take action?


    Dont worry. Im sure they will leave before 11:30 PM.


    Chuyi was unruffled. He gave me a feeling that he was very familiar with this ce. I stopped talkingand turnedto watch the workers out there. The maritime business here was indeed busy.


    This ce was dozens of miles away from the big port in Laizhou. However, I could see that they wereverybusy. It gave me the impression that the famous coastal citiesin the Southeastoperated during theday and night.


    While I was imagining the prosperous growth of our countrys blue economy, Chuyi was admiring his eight-faceted Han sword. He looked yearning and anxious.


    Itooka nceathim from time to time, but he hadnt sent me a look back. If I didnt know him, I wouldhave thoughthe was an idiot.


    At around 11:00 PM, the workers were still moving goods outside. I thought Chuyi had finally learned how to joke. It was just half an hour before 11:30 PM,andthe workers out there didnt show anysignthat they would stop workingsoon.


    I closed my eyes and decided to take a nap.I decided that whenI woke up, I wouldtease him. However, before I could fall asleep, Chuyi patted me. He smiled and pointedoutside our window. Jiulin, lets watch the fun.


    Then, I heard a loud horn.


    I was stunnedto seethe workers out theredropeverythingbefore rushingto the shuttle buses.The shuttle buses immediately left the area.


    Within seconds, Chuyi andI werethe only ones left there.


    Wow.


    I gave Chuyi a thumbs-up. Should we go to the vige to take a look now?


    Just wait a little more.


    Wait? I turned around anddidnt see anyone. Why?


    After a few minutes, I couldnt stay put. Before I could ask him, Chuyi switched off all the lights in the carand turnedto look at me.


    His eyes had turned red. His shaky right handheld ontohis eight-faceted Han sword. He looked like he would draw his sword out of its sheath to kill me in the next moment.


    I shiveredandwanted to ask him what was wrong. But then, I saw a figure reflected in his eyes. The figurewas outside the window behind me.


    Is that


    Subconsciously, I turned and saw a face sticking to the window!


    That face was as thinascicada wings, but the facial features were distinctive. The body attached tothefaceflutteredin the wind like a stic bag. The ghostly face seemed to knowthatwe were looking at it. Itsmirkedand provokinglystuck outits tongueatus.


    I was startled at first, butafterI got a hold of myself, I recognized it was just a normal little ghost. I took out the Emei Piercerand attemptedto attack that ghost. Chuyiblockedmy hand and lowered his voice. Dont move. Its probing us.


    I was surprised. I turned andcarefullyfaced the ghost.


    Around one minuteter, the ghostly face detached from the cars window and flew to an empty truck.


    When I was sure that it couldnt hear me, I asked carefully, Whats going on?


    Chuyi said with a sullen face, Its a ghostraised by thevigers. Every night, ieshere to patrol. As soon as it spots an outsider,itll kill that person.


    Chuyi seemed to be triggered. He started to tell me many things about this vige.


    Many people hadehereknowingnothingabout the ce. Theyhadthe same ideaasme. Theywentout of their hideouts to kill the scouting ghost. Immediately afterward, countless ghosts swarmed toward them from every direction.


    This ordinary-looking vigewas actually raisingso many little ghosts! I smacked my tongue, but I had a feeling that Chuyis loved one wasnt killed by those ghosts.


    The little ghost was moving faster and faster. However, there were so many trucks here. It took the ghost around one hour to finish its patrol round.While hovering, the ghost howled then flew toward the vige.


    At the same time, I heardmotions here and there. Icuriouslylooked around and found so many hidden ghosts. Theygatheredand ran toward the vige.


    After all of themweregone, Chuyi patted meto indicatethat I could getout ofthe car. To be honest, what I had just seen was beyond my estimation!


    It was understandable if I met a lot of ghosts inagraveyard. But tonight,they appearedin a port area, whichspoke oftheabilityof the people living in Dragon King Vige.


    Now, Iwas even more convincedthat this vige had the water nymphstears!


    After gettingout ofthe car, Chuyi went to the window that the ghost had stuck its face on. He took out a big piece of yellow paper and adheredit tothe ss. Then, he sprinkledsome cinnabar powder on it.


    Amiracle happenedright after. The cinnabar stuckonthe spots the ghost had touchedearlier,while theremainingamountfloated and felltothe ground.


    After the ghost appeared on the yellow paper, Chuyi made a cutout of it. Then, he put the paper doll into his pocket. With the eight-faceted Han sword in his hand, he slowly advanced.


    I grabbed the Holy Mother Scepter in my left hand while my right hand held the Emei Piercer. I carefully walked behind him.


    Inthe beginning,we only sawpiles of boxes. However, after a few minutes of walking, the scene changed. In front of us was a vige that was even smaller and poorer than Yin Xinyues vige.


    This is Dragon King Vige.


    Chuyi stopped in front of an old water tower. This water tower is in the center of the vige. If we get up there, we can see the entirece.


    The water tower was abandoned.While climbingto the top, spider websstuckon my entire body. However, it meant that the ce Chuyi had chosen was rtively safe. He took out the paper dond bitthe tip of hisfingerto drip a drop of blood on the ghosts eyes.Jiulin,keep an eye on thevige.


    Then, he closed his eyesand startedto read something while shaking the paper doll.


    It looked like he wanted to use the paper doll to beckon that ghost. I carefully watched around. Eventually, I saw Yin energy arising from a house near the river. I focused on that house. A few secondster, a shadow flew up. When it zoomed nearer, I recognized it was the ghost that had checked our car.


    Ithoughtthat Chuyi would make that ghost show us the way.But to my surprise, the ghost burned and turned into ashes.


    I turned and saw that Chuyi had used his spirit me to burn the paper doll.


    Wasnt it better if wemade it show us around?


    If we dont destroy it,our whereabouts willbe exposed. Chuyi gritted his teeth. Did you see which house the ghost came from?


    I nodded andpointed at thehouse.


    He sneered and exined, The mermaid is the biggest secret of this vige. If somethinghappens out here, the folks will be alerted. They will inevitably think that someone hase for the Dragon Eye and the mermaid!


    What if the ghost owner doesnte out?


    Chuyi wanted to kill the ghost to alert its owner, which would make the owneeout to check on the Dragon Eye. It would give us the chance to follow him there.


    After all, tens of thousands of yearshad passed, which made it hard to recognizeitsoriginal location. Except for the locals, no one knew whereit was.


    It was a good method. However, I didnt think it would workas these peoplewere unlikely te outside at midnight.


    Im sure he will show up. Chuyi gave a faintnod,then looked around. I didnt want to disturb him, so I leaned against the inner wall of the watertowerto rest.


    I didnt know howmuch timeit had passed when Chuyi suddenlysaid, Here hees!

 Chapter 621: Power of the Holy Mother Scepter

    Chapter 621: Power of the Holy Mother Scepter


    Where? Where is he?


    I feltinspired and joltedup immediately.


    I followed Chuyis line of sight and saw a short, bony old man leaving that house. Hehada bucket on his backas hesneakilymovedtoward the river. When he came to the riverbank, he put the bucketinthe water and got into it. Heslowlypaddledaway. He looked like a child ying in a water park.


    I didnt know what he was doing, so I asked Chuyi.Hethought then answered, Perhaps hes trying to sense the Dragon Eyes aura.


    Chuyigrabbed his eight-faceted Han sword,climbed off the water tower,and headedtoward the riverbank.


    At thismoment, the old man had paddled around a hundred meters away. Chuyi followed him alongside the riverbank. The old man suddenly took a turn. However, asimplestructure obstructed our sight.When we crossed those obstacles, the old man had already disappeared!


    What should we do now? I was a little flustered.


    Chuyi shot me a nce then jumped directly into the river. I wasnt good at swimming, so I had to wait here.


    Half an hourter, Chuyihadntreturned. I had to walk onthesmall path alone. After a few steps, I saw Chuyi swimming toward me. I hurried to pull him up. He had blood all over his body, and hisface was strangely pale.


    Hurry, carry me back. Chuyi fainted after saying that. I didnt know what had happened, but if themancould hurt him like this, he wasnt weak at all. I clenched my jaw and picked him upbefore puttinghim on my back. I started to run towards our car.


    I had run for quite a long time, but I hadnt gotten out of the ce yet. Then, I realized the strange situation. When I came here, it didnt take such a long time! I now knew I was inanillusion!


    Chuyi was right. This shabby, calm-looking vige didhide a murderousaura! I stopped and took out theIllusory Mind Bell. I wanted to use the belltosee if I could find the way out. But before I could shake it, Chuyi grabbed my hand.


    Oh, youre awake. What happened back there?


    I cheeredupand puthim down. As long as he was with me, no matter what happened, I could feel at ease.


    However, Chuyi didnt use theIllusory Mind Bell. He put on a cold smirk and threw it far away. He turned to meand said inan amused tone,Oh, withthesemediocreskills, you daree to Dragon King Vige?


    You Who are you?


    When the man spoke, it wasnt Chuyis voice. Instinctively, I retreatedand panicked.


    He sneered and pulledoffhis facial skin, which revealed a withered, wrinkled face.


    Its you! I looked at the old man in front of me. I tooka deep breathand said,What did you do tomy friend?


    You should worry about yourself.


    The old man retreated a few steps. All of a sudden, he disappeared into thin air. Then, I heard an iing noise. I frownedand clutchedthe Holy Mother Scepter tightly.


    As the noise came closer, I saw numerous ghosts.This time, their target was me! They didnt beset me or swarm over me at once.They cameorderlyin groups from all directions.


    Screwyou! I couldnt help but curse. Then, I hit the nearest ghost with the Emei Piercer. I now regrettednotbringingthe Yin and Yang Umbre.


    As they wereing in groups, I couldnt capture them at once even if I used theBigDipper Sirius Spell. Moreover, I was still in anillusion. Icouldnt waste a lot of strength on them.


    I was lucky that the withered, old man didnt take myIllusory Mind Bell. Wielding the Holy Mother Scepter and the Emei Piercer, I moved toward theIllusory Mind Bell. When theIllusory Mind Bellwas finally in my sight, I feltrelieved. I swept the Holy Mother Scepteraround to force the approaching ghosts to back off. Then, I jumped and grabbed theIllusory Mind Bell. I shookit hard.


    However, theIllusory Mind Belldidnt work. It didnt affect those ghosts at all.On the contrary,it seemedto make the ghosts more excited. It looked like the old man had deliberately leftbehindthe bell.


    He was afraid of theIllusory Mind Bell, but the ghosts werent! I didnt have time to figure outthe reason whena sharp pain hit my shoulder. I turned my head aside and saw a ghost tearing my shoulder!


    Damn you! Get off me!


    I stabbed the Emei Pierce into the soil and quickly took out a talismanbefore palmingit on the ghosts forehead. The ghost screeched andvanished into awisp of smoke. The other ghoststhat were watching me halted at the scene. Their eyes moved, lookinghere and there. I knew they were scared.


    It seemed they were afraid of spiritual talismans. Ihadfinally foundtheir weakness. I took out a few talismansthenproactively approachedthe ghosts.They dispersedimmediately. However,the nearest ghosts werent that lucky.They vanished after being hit.


    After confirming that they were scared of spirit talismans, I didnt use them anymore. With the Holy Mother Scepter in hand, I moved forward. Whenever they wanted to jump toward me, I would put my hand into my pocket as though I was about to take out the talismans. The ghost would freeze at that move.


    However, I was just pulling back and forth with the ghosts. As I didnt have time to think abouthow to escape theillusion,I becamerestless. My movements werentcoordinated, either.


    The ghosts seemed to recognize my weakness. They started to swarm toward me like bees taking revenge for their broken hive. I had to quit my conservativetacticand use the talisman.


    However, there were so many of them. When they came near, Isubconsciously put my hand into my pocket and realized that I had used up my talismans!


    The ghosts halted. But then,seeing thatI couldnt take out more talismans, they became excited. They shrilled and shrieked as they stormedtoward me.


    As I was in this situation, I had no other choice. I read theBigDipper Sirius Spell. The Holy Mother Scepter immediately radiated a gold lightthat expanded fromme. The ghosts around me were smashed.


    Since there were too many of them, the pressure the Holy Mother Scepter had to bear was getting bigger and bigger. I could feel my strength draining.


    I decided to make thest bet. I kept readingthe spell to maximize my controlofthe scepter.


    After I had finished reading the spell, the Holy Mother Scepter floatedup and hoveredin the air while the gold light endlesslyexpanded. This move endedall the ghosts in thisillusoryspace.


    I exhaled and squatted, gasping for my breath. I had to rub my belly in order not to vomit.


    Die!


    Rightatthis moment, I heard theangryvoice of the old man behind me. Immediately, cold energy ambushed me from behind. I knew it was a deadly attack, but I didnt have enough strength to avoidit.


    It felt like I washitby a train. I was sent flyinga few meters backwardandvomited blood. When I fell, I didnt even fenypain, but my limbsshookuncontrobly.

 Chapter 622: Chuyi’s Past

    Chapter 622: Chuyi¡¯s Past


    I wanted to get up, butmy body couldntmusteranystrength. Mylimps shookcontinuously.


    The bony old man came from behind me. He stomped his rubber boot on my head. He sounded angry. Little boy, so many people stronger than youhavee here.Theyareall gone, you know?Did you think you were better thanthem?


    I I just want to find something Im sorry if Iveoffended you Since I was still shivering hard, my voice was intermittent.


    I tried my best to prove that I didnt mean harm. At the same time, I wanted to seize more time.I wanted to know why the people in Dragon King Vige were so xenophobic.


    Find something? The old man pressed his boot harder against my head. I thought my head would burst soon. Ifelt like I wassuffocating.


    After a moment, he removed his footand turnedto pick up the Holy Mother Scepter. He stroked thescepter and smiled. What a good treasure. Its a waste in your hands!


    Then, heshoutedandraisedthe Holy Mother Scepter high in the air, aiming itat my head!


    If he hit me, my head wouldburst likea watermelon. The strong urge tosurvivehit me. I wiggled and sessfully dodged thedeadlyattack. The Holy Mother Scepter hit my shoulder. My upper body went numb instantly. I vomited a mouthful of blood one more time.


    Screwyou! I cursed with bloodin mymouth. Ithoughtthe old man in front of mewas crazy. He didnt even give me a chance to talk; he justwanted to killme. The bonyold mans eyes turned redatthat moment. He screamed, Yourecourtingdeath!


    Then, he spun the Holy Mother Scepter and hit me one more time. Thest dodge had used thest bit of my strength. I could only close my eyes and wait for myend.


    At the moment my life was at stake, I heard the soundof along swordbeingdrawn out of its sheath. Then, I saw Chuyiing from the dark with a hiss of his sword.


    I opened my eyes and saw Chuyi stopping the Holy Mother Scepter with his eight-faceted Han sword.At thismoment, he was parrying with the old man.However, it was strange that theyremainedin that parrying position for quite a long moment. No one had taken the initiative to attack first.


    Chuyi was standing with his back facing me. I didnt see his face, but I could see the old mans countenance. He seemed to haveplicated feelings toward Chuyi. Although he still wore a harsh, brutal face, his eyes showed his hesitation.


    They stood like that for a few solid minutes. The bony old man turned and left. When hepletely disappeared into the dark, his voicearose.Take this kid and leave. Ill spare your lives today for Yingyings sake. But its thest time!


    It seemed he was talking to Chuyi. Moreover, I didnt have any connection with someone named Yingying.


    I felt curious.I linked this name to Chuyis beloved person who had died in this vige.


    Are you all right?


    Chuyi helped me get up. He hurriedly pressed the acupoints in my limbs. In the end, Iwas able tostop myself from shaking uncontrobly. I shook my headand gavea wry smile to show that I was okay.


    Wheredidyou go? I asked Chuyi.


    I followed him for quite a long time and sawhim disappearinto the river. I recognized that we were trapped in an illusion, so I hurried toe back here. Fortunately, Iwasnt toote, Chuyi said while squeezing waterout ofhis clothes. Hesighed. Lets go!We should leave before that old man changes his mind.


    When Chuyisaidthat, I recognized the surroundings hadpletely changed. It seemed the old man had lifted his illusional technique.


    On the way back, I thought,EvenChuyi was wary of that old man, just whoishe?


    He is my father-inw.


    Before Icouldaskhim, Chuyi spoke up. Then, withred-rimmedeyes, he started to tell me his story.


    Yingying was that old mans daughter and also Chuyis lover.


    It was unknown whythe peopleinDragon King Vigewereso xenophobicandhated outsiders. Yingyingquickly grew to bea powerful hotshot under her fathers training. She was strong enough to kill all the intrudersthat came here.


    Yingying and Chuyi had fought once when Chuyi came here to investigate the deaths ofsomepeople. Unfortunately, theyter fell in love.


    They thought that their bond could persuade the bony old man. Unexpectedly, the old man thunderedand askedYingying to kill Chuyi.


    The couple was helpless. They leftDragon King Vige. After a long time, Yingying thought that time would melt her fathersanger.However,the old man stayedfirm. He forced her to kill Chuyi. In the end, Yingying was broken mentally. She decided to kill herself instead


    After Yingyings death, the old manfelt great regret. However, he wassoextreme that he med the death of his daughter on Chuyi.Perhaps it was because of his love for histe daughter that hed let Chuyi go now.Still, they had maintained this kind of grudge against each other.


    Chuyi sighedand said,Tell me, should I kill him? He indirectly killed the woman I loved the most,but hes her blood father.


    Im so sorry


    Ever since we hade to this vige, I felt that something was wrong with Chuyi. I had thought about many possibilities but this


    Moreover, this issue included the grudge of his wifes death and the blood bond of the family.Besidesstaying quiet, I couldnt do anything else. I felt so sorry for the man. Although I always consideredhim as mybrother, I knew he was more simr toSenior Shuand Zen MasterBaimei. They were from my senior generation. Thatwaswhy Icouldn''t understandwhy he didnt have a family. And now, I finallyknew.


    After quite a long time, Chuyi got a hold of himself. He spoke faintly, Jiulin, Im so sorry.I cant attack that old man. Even if hes evil, hes my father-inw.


    Its okay. We should look somewhere else. I believe wellfind the waternymphstears.


    Before Chuyi continued talking, Iintervened to showthat it was all right.Still, my heartwinced. Yin Xinyue was waiting forme at home. What should I tell her if I couldntfind the water nymphstears?


    But, how could I force Chuyi!? He had done a lot for me!


    I now understood why Chuyi had been so careful this time. He wanted to sneak behind his father-inws back to get the mermaidstears. Unexpectedly, the old man hadnoticed us,settingup atrap for us to step in.


    Hed seen through our operation tonight. Moreover, the old man had made himself clear that hewould only spareus this time. If we encountered him the next time, it would be a death or life situation.


    I thought then said, Chuyi,how about weask Zen MasterBaimei? Heis knowledgeable across a vast number of topics.Perhaps heknowssomething about the water nymphstears.


    Chuyi wasnt a pretentious person. He didnt want to lingerand gaveme a confirming nod.


    Im tired. We should sleep here tonight.


    When we gotinthe car, Chuyi didnt drive right away. He suggestedspendingthe night here. I was aching all over, so I didnt have any objections. Iidon the back seatsand soon fesleep.


    While sleeping, I suddenly heard Yin Xinyue crying. I opened my eyes and saw Yin Xinyue wearing mourning clothes with a gauze hat on her head.She was kneeling in front of a bed, crying her heart out.


    My inws were lying onabed. Their faces were pale, and their pupilsdted. They were dead!


    I didnt expect that they would leave this world soquickly.I absent-mindedlywalked toward Yin Xinyueand triedtofort her. She pushed me awayand shoutedat my face. Hervoicewas crackingin pain. Zhang Jiulin, youre a swindler! Anevil swindler!


    Each wordof herstabbed into my heart. I gritted my teeth and tried to embrace her. Yin Xinyue suddenly grabbed a pair of scissors nearbyanddirectlystabbedher own throat.Her warm blood sshed on my face.


    Yin Xinyue, noooo!


    I screamed and ran to support her. Suddenly, my head banged into something.


    I lifted my head and saw that I had just hit the roof of the car. I was still in the car.


    I exhaled in relief when I realized it was just a horrible nightmare. While wiping the cold sweatoffmy forehead, I subconsciously turned to look at the window. I was scared out ofmy wits to seeYin Xinyue standing outside. She looked so pale; she lookedat me with her nk eyes.


    I instinctively opened the door, but it was locked. I called Chuyi tounlock it. But when I turned to thedriversseat, there was no one.


    What the heck is going on?


    Doubtfully, I took out my phone to call himuntilI saw the message he had sent me.The message wrotethat he went out to solveaproblem and that he had locked me inside to protect me. He also carefully advised that the ghosts here were powerful enough to enter my dreams. No matter what Isawin my dream, I shouldnt believeit to betrue.


    After reading the message, my head buzzed.No wonder I had dreamedabout myparents dyingand Yin Xinyue killingherself!A ghost had messed withmy dream!


    I looked at the ghost outsideand sneeredinwardly. I quietly took out a medium spiritual talismanand heldit in my palm. My head motioned towardthe ghost who had taken on Yin Xinyues form.I waved at her as though I wanted to talk. When she came near the window, I suddenly palmed the talisman on the window!


    The ghost turned back to its original form. Frightened, it wanted to flee.But Chuyis medium talisman was intimidating enough. In justtheblink of an eye, its gold light swallowed the ghost.


    I feel likeatiger who gotbulliedby stray dogs! I couldnt help but curse. No matter what, I had experienced enough. And now, while looking for the mermaidstears, a little ghostwasable to tease me!


    Although Chuyi didnt tell me what he was going to do via his text, I knew he was exerting hisst effort for me. It was inevitable that he had to leave me in the car. The old man could spare him at the critical moment, but I was sure he wouldnt let mestayalive!

 Chapter 623: The Gates of Hell Trading Conference

    Chapter 623: The Gates of Hell Trading Conference


    Afterthat ghost impersonating event, I didnt dare to sleep again. I wanted to talk to Yin Xinyue, but I didnt know how to face her. Eventually, I decided to call Li Mazi.


    Fortunately, he hadnt slept yet. Hey bro, Im on a train to visit Chuchus grave. How are you doing?


    Im doing okay. Its hard to fall asleepat night these days. I pretended to bealright. I smiled and chatted with him.I swallowed what I wanted to tell him down my throat.


    Li Maziwas a sensitive person. If he knew that Ihadaproblem, I was sure he woulde here to help me right away.


    Hey, you have toe home soon and take me to conquer more otherworldly items! His voice was cheerful.


    After listening to him, I felt touched. Iwaslonelyandwantedto quit this business at times, but in the end, I couldnt.Being an otherworldlymerchant wasn''tjust a profession;it was my life. If I left it, I would find no one to talk with.


    I had lived for almost thirty years and I had never been this lonely before. The night was so long. Everysecondthat passedby wasasecond I was tortured.


    When the East became bright and the first beams of sunlight shone, Ileaned back and slept. It was a good sleepasI didnt have any baddreams. However, I was awoken by the noise outside. The workers had returned to their jobs. I checked the time. It was noon already, and Chuyi hadnt returned. I was worried,so I decided to callhim.


    The callwentthrough soon. Chuyis voice came from the other end of the line weakly. Im onmyway back. Dont worry.


    Indeed, he came back shortly after. His Kumamont-shirt was torn, and there were streaks of blood on his face.


    Thereareno mermaidstearshere. He breathed out when he got into the car. Then, he asked me to drive home while hesleptinthe back seats.


    Afteryesterdays events, Id already lostmy hopeof findingthe mermaidstearshere. Afterlistening to him, I didnt feelthatdisappointed.


    We reached Yin Xinyues vige by twilight. I stopped at the vige entrance and woke Chuyi up.


    I fought with him, but none of usdared tokill the other.Anyway, he told me that the Dragon King Vige doesnt have the mermaids tears, but another secret. However, he didnt tell me whatthis secret is.


    Chuyiwas still tired. I knew he was talking about the old man. I nodded as I understood.


    Since we cant find the mermaidstearswithin a short time, we must find another solution to keep your parents alive.


    What do you mean? My eyes brightened. If he said so, hemust have asolution!


    Chuyi nodded and added, This year, when the Gates of Hell open on July 15th, there will be a mysterious trading conference. Its held by the otherworldly merchants Circle. There will be countless masters, monsters, and even thousand-year-old ghosts. They will trade rare herbs, pellets, cores, otherworldly items, and magic weapons. I think we can find the mermaidstearsthere.


    It wasnt even February yet.Thismeant we had to control my inws sickness for half a year, butnormal methods couldntbuy us that much time. Chuyi had considered for a long time before he came up withasolution: we would use the fate-swap method, as Senior Shuhad done. We would find two animals to swap their fates with my inws.


    However, therewas thepossibility that those animals couldnt endureituntil July 15th.If that happened,my inws fates would be gone with them. Tobe sure, Chuyi decided tobring herethe fox spirit we had subduedin Japan. At the same time, we would borrowSenior Shus life-bound rat to use.


    Thank you, Chuyi. I thanked him. Chuyi smiled, then directly drove away without visiting my inwshouseasecond time.


    I lingered for quite a long time to gather the courage to go home. I thought that the first thing Yin Xinyue would ask me about was the water nymphs tears.


    Brother Zhang, youre back!Are you hurt? Unexpectedly, she worried about my well-being first.


    I shook my head, then told her what Chuyi had told me.


    Its good. As long as my parents are safe, just dowhatever is needed.


    I didnt know if she wanted tofort me or what, but her emotionswerestable. Yin Xinyue didnt cry as she had done before.


    For thenext few days, I madeaspecial ointment for my inws every day. After a few days, Chuyi came back with the fox spirit and the life-boundrat. He held a ritual with some spells to swap their fates.


    After everything was done, Chuyi finallylet out a sigh ofrelief. If nothing unexpected happens, for the next six months, they will bealright. Now,wejust need to wait for the Gates of Hell Trading Conference on July 15th.


    I knewthat nothing unexpectedwould happen becauseSenior Shuhad been swapping hisfatewith his life-bound rate for quite a long time, and he had no problems.


    After listening to me, Yin Xinyue didnt look worried anymore. She still had work to do, so we couldnt stay in her hometown for a long time.


    We stayedfor a few more days.After confirming that nothing unexpected would happen, we werereadyto go back to the city. I wanted to make Chuyi my guest for a few days, but he refused and saidthat he needed to return to Dragon King Vige to solveanissue.


    You should be careful, then, I told him.


    I didnt ask him what he wanted to do, justas Ididnt ask him what had happened on the night he locked me inside the car. Everybody hadasecret they didnt want othersto know. We could just wish him well.


    Whenwe returnedto the city, Yin Xinyue was busy again with her work. She rarely came home. I started to resume my lonely lifeand felt evenloneliernow.


    Fortunately, Li Mazi came to the rescue with a new business deal. Moreover, the client was near Wuhan. My interest was aroused after listening to him. Mazi, give me the address.


    Li Mazi was always stealthy, his voice despicableas he said,LittleBrother Zhang, you have to take me with you. Otherwise, Ill swallow the address down my tummy!


    Then, he closed his eyes as though he was a dead pig that wasnt afraid of boilingwater.


    Ihadalmost cracked mentally these days, soIwasnt inthe mood to joke with him.I agreed to take him with me.


    Well, its in a vige called Baijia.


    We departed.Onthe way, I was bored, soI asked, Where did you get this case?


    It was like magic;wheneverI neededa casethe most, this cunning man could alwayse withabig deal.


    Li Mazi sniggered. On my way back after visiting Chuchus grave, I saw a sullen-faced man on the train. You know my strength, right? Im good atreadingpeoplesfaces and guessing theirintentions. I felt that the manwasin trouble. I started to chat with him. Indeed, hehad a bigproblem. His name is He Kui. He went to the South to praytothe Bodhisattva there.


    It turned out that so many strangethings happened tothe mansfamily after his father passed away. First, his wife had an ident, whichresulted inher miscarriage. Then, He Kui lost his job in the city.Feeling helpless, he had to take his family back to the countryside to live.


    Evenafter that, they didnt find peace. At night, when He Kuis wife slept, she would dream about herte father-inw, who cried and shouted at her face.


    He Kuis wife had always looked down on her inws. She disdained the old man because he was just a farmer from the countryside. She had thrown the eggs that her father-inwhad toborforinto the trash bin. She even sent him out of the house in the middle of a snowy night.


    When He Kui heard the situation from his wife, he hurried to his fathers grave to burn paper money, begginghim to forgive his wife.However,it didnt work. The situation had turned even worse. In the end, his wife didnt dare to sleep anymore.


    They had endured the situation, but the next incident made He Kuiloathehis fatherpletely.After a long time, his wife finally gave birth to a baby girl,but the child wasveryweak. They took the little girl to the hospital to check. The doctor said she was all right, but the little girl kept crying as though she saw something very scary.


    The couple thought that it could be the ghost of their old man who stayed nearby andscaredthe child.Feeling helpless, He Kui had to go to the South Sea to visit and implore the Goddess of Mercy!

 Chapter 624: Longevity Lock Charm

    Chapter 624: Longevity Lock Charm


    Do you think we can trust that He Kui guy? After Li Mazi said that, I felt interested in this case.


    Li Maziughed and shook his head, shooting me a meaningful look


    We had seen this a lot.Unfilial children made their parentsdiewith a grudge, and they were only scared when their parents came back fromthe deadto pesterthem. Moreover, when they came to askfor myhelp, they didnt tell meaboutthe horrible things they had done to their parents. Thatwaswhy Li Mazi and I agreed that He Kui was lying or omittingthe fact that he and his wife werent filial at all.


    Still, ghosts were ghosts. I couldnt just ignorethe fact that aghost was troubling an innocent kid!


    When we arrived at Baijia Vige, He Kui was waiting for us at the vige entrance. When he saw us, he rushed to us,andexcitedlygrabbedmy hand. Master Zhang, youre finally here.


    It seemed Li Mazi hadtoldhim about me. I didnt talk nonsenseand askedhim to take us to his house.


    He Kui looked hesitant. Li Mazi waved his hand indismissal. Quickly, tell us if youre experiencingsome trouble.


    Master Zhang, Ihavesomething here. Please take a look. He Kuihesitatedfor quite a long timebefore hecarefully took out a longevity lock charm from his pocket.


    At first nce, the longevity lock charm looked like it was made of pure bronze. However, it had been oxidized in some corners; itdidnt look likea valuable item. The strange feature about this longevity lock charm was that it had fresh mud and dirt stuffed at the carved slits on its surface. It lookedas though it had just been unearthed. Whats wrong with this lock charm?


    He paledand puckeredhis lips. After a moment, he stuttered,My father brought it to my house.


    What?! Li Mazi wasobservingthe longevity lock charm.After hearing that, he lookedscaredand threwthe lock charmatme. Imadea slight frownand askedHe Kui to continue.


    AfterI returnedhome from the South Sea, my little girlwasntgetting better. Her situationwasgetting worse. Moreover, my wife dreamedabout my father more often.I almostcrackedst night, which is why I calledMr. Li to help me. Unexpectedly, this morning, I found this longevity lock charm on my daughters bed! Im sure my father brought it to my house. I know its the lock charm my father always kept with him when he was still alive.When he passed away, I buried this lock charm with him.


    Where is his grave?Could you takeme there tohavea look?


    If the dead had given away their grave goods, itnormallymeant they wanted to use these grave goods to exchange for the livingrecipient''slife!


    However, in most of the cases, the dead just wanted to trick the living and make the living their partner. It was some sort of otherworldly marriage. Still, I was sure that the old grandfather wouldnt havesuch an ideatoward his granddaughter. Thatwaswhy I wanted to go to his grave. I wanted to understand the meaning behind his actions.


    He Kui didntrefuse my proposal. He led us toward the paddy fields. He stopped at a location that looked lower than the fields around. A medium-size grave was situated in the middle of that piece ofnd.


    There was only one grave in this area. I didnt wait for him to show me the wayand tookthe lead. I bowed to the grave before carefully assessing it.


    I had spent a good time observing it, but I didnt find anything wrong.The only thing was that I saw onlyabit ofYin energy, which wasratherunusual.


    This grave was located in a lower position than thend around, whichallowedthe water and cold energy to congregatearound it. In theory, the grave should have thick and furious Yin energy.Seeing that it wasrtively clean, I thoughtthere might not be acorpse down there!


    Master Zhang, did you find anything?


    He Kui looked at mygrimace, and he panicked as he seemed to figure out something. I told him myguess and askedif we could open up the grave to confirmit.


    He was bewildered at first,butwhen he heard that we should open up the grave, his face turned sullen. Im not sure about that. Is it okay if we dont open the grave?


    I see. Then, well only observe thesituation for now. I nodded as I understoodwhat he was feeling. His father should rest in peace. If wedidnt feel hopeless about what to do, we shouldnt unearth him.


    I looked at the grave for a while and found nothing problematic with it. Then, I followed He Kui to visit his house.


    His house was a blue brick house with a tiled roof. It looked really old, though. Although they could live in this rickety house, it was the worst-looking house in this vige.


    Whydidn''t yourenovate the house? I sounded skeptical.


    He Kui blushedandembarrassedlytoldus the story. This is my fathers house. AfterI graduated, I got a job in the city. When I got married, Ispent almostall of his savings torenta house in the city. However, after I lost my job, I couldnt pay the rent, so we decided to move back here.


    I disdained this man, but I understood that hismiserablesituation was surely rted to his father. However, I didnt want to discuss this with him. Instead, Iasked, How is your daughter?


    Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. Last night, she didnt cry. She had a good sleep.


    When we talked about his daughter, He Kui finally had a smile on his face.


    Li Mazi chimed in, Could it be the effect of the longevity lock charm?


    Eh? He Kuididntreact for quite a long time. In the end, he spoke gingerly, If so, my father wouldnt have tortured us right from the start


    After he said that, Li Mazi didnt talk anymore. They both turned to me.


    I had thought about what Li Mazi had just mentioned. Many elders didnt like theirdaughters-inw, but they all loved their grandkids. Becauseof a grudge, Mr. He had pestered his daughter-inw butthatdidnt hinder him from loving his little granddaughter. However, I thoughtthatsomething elsewas scaringHe Kuis daughter, not his old man.


    Yeah, itspossible.


    Li Mazi noddedto showthat he agreed with my assumption. He Kuis face turnedplicated.He looked both doubtful and sorry.


    As soon as we entered his courtyard, we heardachild crying. Her criesweregetting louder and louder. He Kuiwasworriedandrushed to the house. Li Mazi and I followed him. Then, we saw a young woman sitting on the edge of the bed. She waforting her crying baby. When the woman saw us, she hurriedly brought the kid to usand beggedus to save her daughter.


    At first nce, I could already confirm that this little girl was being pestered by something foul. Her facewasash-gray. Her heavenlytemple was dark, and I saw a vague purple cloud above her head.


    Little kids could see foul beings because ofthespiritual purple cloud above theirheads, which also represented the kids fate. As kids grew up, this spiritual cloud would slowly seep into theirbodiesand be their life essence.


    The little girlsspiritual energy was dispersing bit by bit. Ifthingscontinued likethis, she would dieinthree days. I hurriedly adhered a Yang me talisman on her forehead toprotecther life. Then, I started to assess this room. The room was filled with a ck mist that torrentially rolled toward the bed.


    It was no wonderthatthe purple spiritual energy on her head was eroded. Staying in this room was no differentfrom soaking in Yin energy for the whole day. Let alone a little girl, even an adult would be harmfully affected!


    He Kuis wifes face washaggard. I knew the Yin energy here had affected her as well. I asked He Kui toopenall the windows anddoors andthen continued to watch. Strangely, the Yin energy in the room didnt disperse. Even when the wind blew in and disturbed the Yin energy, after a while, the Yin energy congregated againand twirledabove the bed.


    Whats going on? I frowned, muttering to myself.


    He Kui, Li Mazi,movethatbed to another ce. I want to see if theres something underneath.


    Except for dust, there was nothing else under the bed. Frighteningly, the Yin energy continued to move andspinabove the bed!


    I asked the two men to move the bed to a few more locations. However, no matter where they put it, the mass of Yin energy followed it.


    As Li Mazi saw that I kept watching the void above our heads, he knew therewasYin energy there. Did you find the origin of the Yin energy?


    I shook my head. That mass of Yin energy kept spinning over there,butI couldnt find where it originated.


    Fortunately, the vortex of Yin energy had only moved around the bed. I picked up the baby and left the room, but it didnt follow me. It meant that foul thingwasntaiming at the baby. He Kui had thought that his kid had caught a cold, so he didnt bring her out of that room. Buthe had identally put the little girl in danger.


    He Kuis wife immediately rushed into the room to gather some stuff and moved the baby crib out of the room.


    Indeed, as soon as the kid was settled in her crib, the purple cloudaboveher headstabilized. I asked her parentsto tell meher date of birth. I wanted touse the Soul BeckoningTechnique to help herrecollecther spiritual energy.


    Butas she was just an infant,herspiritual energy was feeble, and it was difficult to gather once dispersed. I could only collectpart ofit. However,she would recover naturally if wecould assure that her family wasntpestered again.


    After we had solved the little girls dangerous situation, the couple heaved a sigh of relief. They continuously thanked me. I just waved my hands. Its all right.However, I cant see where the Yin energyisingfrom. I need to observe it again tonight.


    He Kui nodded. He asked his wife to cook us something.


    Li Mazi and I werestarving.We quickly finished thefoodand took a nap.


    At night, I asked He Kuis family to stay and rest in the living room. Li Mazi and I hid in the childs room, waiting!

 Chapter 625: The Weeder Who Works at Midnight

    Chapter 625: The Weeder Who Works at Midnight


    Yin energy was still swirling in the room just like during the day. Li Maziwas getting impatient. However, I had a feeling that something would happen tonight.


    To avoid alerting the Yin spirit, Li Mazi and I hid underneath the bed. Each of us kept a Yang Concealing Talisman. As the night grew darker, the surroundings quieted down. In the end, all I heard was He Kui snoring.


    I leaned over to check outside through the window. The sky was dark and there was no moonlight. I was more certain that the Yin spirit woulde.


    However, as time ticked by, my presumption faded. At around 2:00 AM, the mass of Yin energy was stillthe same. Ibecamea little weary. Li Mazi was fast asleep next to me under the bed.


    It seemed the Yin spirit wouldnte tonight. I woke Li Mazi up and crawled out of the bed. Li Mazi got up and mumbled, LittleBrother Zhang, Iwashaving a good sleep. Why did you keep knockingon something?


    I kept knocking on something? I was perplexed.


    Li Mazisaid, Oh.


    Then, hepricked his ears andshook his head.I heard the sound ofawalking stick. I thought you were doing something


    Before he finished, I muffled him. idt on the ground and listened. Indeed, I heardavague knocking sound. It sounded like someone was moving with a walking stick.


    The low noise came from the ground, though. But when I receivedashovel from Li Mazi to open up the soil,the sounddisappeared. I somehow managed to locate the noise. It was moving toward the door. I immediately grabbed the Sirius Whipand chasedafter it.


    Since I had to be close to the ground to capture the noise, after running for a while, I had to kneel to listen. When I rushed to the vige entrance, I stuck my ear on the ground one more time. However, this time, I heard nothing.


    You You lost it?


    Li Mazi looked puzzled. I nodded reluctantlyand brushedoff the dirt and mud on my clothes. We returned to He Kuis house together.


    On the way back, Li Mazi said in a low tone,LittleBrother Zhang, I havea feeling thatHe Kuis fathermade that noise. What do you think?


    I suddenly recognized that after his serious injuries fromst time, this dude seemed to have be much smarter.


    It shouldbe him. I nodded.


    Earlier today, I felt thathiscorpsewasnt in his grave. What happened just nowsort of confirmed my guess. Moreover,ghosts couldnt moveunderground. Hecould beawalkingcorpse!


    Whenwe returnedto the house, I squatted by the basin to wash the dustoffmy face.


    Then, I heardLi Mazissuddenscream. I turned and saw his dull face gazing at the ceiling. Subconsciously, I followed his line of sight. The Yin energy that lingered in the roomwasgone.


    Uh What happened? Did the grandfather erase all the Yin energy? It took Li Mazi quite a long time to pull himself together. He looked perplexed. I didnt know what had happened, either. However, it wasnt a bad thing that the Yin energywasgone.


    I couldnt sleep after this.Li Mazi and Icrouched with our ears on the groundand listened.Whilethe sky was getting brighter, a tiny walking noise came from the ground. I jolted upand shotLi Mazi a nce.


    He was surprised, but he soon got my idea. Heiddown again to listen then pointed at the ground.


    I quietly tiptoedinthe direction he was pointing at. A momentter, Li Mazis finger stopped moving. He lingered for a moment more. Then, hestood upand said,Hes gone.


    I used the Emei Piercer to draw a circle on the ground. When I lifted my head to check the ceiling, Yin energy began to congregate and spin.


    Do you want to dig it up? pried Li Mazi.


    I thought then answered, We should wait until the morning. It could be Mr. He, but the thing down there has profound Yin energy. We should unearth it in the morning.


    You have a point. It seems he wille every night. We dont need to worryabout it runningaway.Li Mazi agreed.It wasntbroad daylight yet, so wetooka short nap.


    I didnt know how long I had slept until He Kui woke me up.He rubbed his hands, his face lookingstrange. Master, I just went to my greenhouse. I found something strange!


    It turned out that after He Kuicameback to this countryside vige, he started to build and work at his familys greenhouse to grow some out-of-season fruits. He frequentlyvisitedhis greenhouse. However, these days, as his daughter was sick, hewasnt inthe mood to care about his vegetables. But yesterday, after I had saved his daughter, He Kui wanted to go to the greenhouse to pluck the wild grass.


    Unexpectedly, when hegotthere, he found his big greenhousepletely clean. There was not asingle de of wild grass.


    It looked like someone had helped him take care of his greenhouse. Fortunately, the greenhouses in this vige were all equipped with cameras to prevent thieves. He Kui went to check the CCTV. He wanted to see who had secretly helped him. However, the CCTV video showed that nobody had entered his greenhouse.


    LittleBrother Zhang, I think its Mr. He, Li Mazi blurted after He Kui told us the story.


    Whatdo you mean?


    I then told He Kui about what had happenedst night.


    Yesterday I had thought that it was the stomping noise of the walking stick, but it seemed tohave been createdby a hoe.


    It was the heart of a parent. Although Mr. He had passed away, he was still worried about his son. He Kuis eyes turned red. What should I do now?


    He Kui, I think your father is now a walkingcorpse. Otherwise, a dead body cant movelike that. Anyway, he doesnt mean harm to you. However,the Yin energy that has affected the little girl seems to have something to do with a hoe.


    I analyzed the situation. The old man hade to take the hoe underground. It was also the time when the vortex of Yin energy in the room disappeared.When he returned it in the morning, the Yin energy also returned. I needed to unearth that hoe to see how ithadsuch strong Yin energy.


    After listening to me, He Kui became hesitant. Canyou solve this without hurting my father?


    Frommy impression, hereally cared abouthis father. I could say he was a filial son. I nodded. If yourte father doesnt mean harm, we can talk him out of it. Dont worry.


    He Kui looked better after I confirmed that. Do you want to dig the floor now?


    Yeah, letsdo it now. As theres lots of sunlight right now,we wont need tobor much!


    I went to open the window and put some more talismans around the spot on the ground I had circled,before asking He Kui to start digging.


    Li Mazi grabbed a shovel and helped He Kui dig thesoil. However, theydidntmake fastprogress. This room was too old. Perhaps before Mr. He had built his house here, he had dumped a lot of debris to strengthen the foundation.


    While they were digging the hole, I asked He Kuis wife to fetch me a bucket of ashes. Every time they dug deeper, I sprinkled ayer of ashes. Thatwas how I could save them from exerting more strength.


    As theybegan to digdeeper and deeper, they didnthitbroken bricks anymore. Now,only ck mud came up.


    I squatted by the hole and pinched some mud,and broughtit to my nose to take a sniff. It smelled of cast iron!


    It seemed the hoe was down there. He Kui and Li Mazi were sweating hard. Itoldthem to stop ane upas I was afraid that they would be affected by the Yin energy. I jumped into the hole and started digging myself. At first, I didnt feel that it would take a lot of energy. However, when I thrust my shovel into the soil for the third time, a strong forcepulledmy shovel downward.I couldnt lift it anymore.It seemedthat thing had started to pull back and forth with me.


    Li Mazi, sprinkle the ashes on me!I screamed, then read the Sacred Text of Daoism. At the same time, Li Mazi pouredall the ashes that remained,half ofabucket full, on me. I choked, but my body felt much lighter.


    Seizing theopportunity, Itriedmy best to dig more. I heard a low ngandrecognized that I had hit something made of iron in the soil. I hurriedly shoveled around the thing and got it eventually.


    As Idexpected, it was a rusty hoe. There wasadark stain on it. From my experience,I could tell thatit was dried blood.


    I asked Li Mazi to take the hoe to the yard. I checkedthe ceilingone more time and indeed, the Yin energy swirling above our heads started to disperse. I seized the chance and relocated some furniture in the house to change thegeomancyof the ce. Soon, all the Yin energy vanished. I could feel the auspicious energy starting to congregate inthehouse.


    After He Kuidiscoveredthat the Yin energy had vanished, he picked up the shovel to fill up the hole. I stopped himwith a smile. Your father wille again to fetch his hoe.


    I understand. He noddedwith brimming red eyes.


    I patted hisshoulder and asked him toe to the yard. Have you ever seen this hoe?

 Chapter 626: If One Day

    Chapter 626: If One Day


    At first, He Kui shook his head. But when he saw thebloodstainon the hoe, his eyes opened wide. Hecouldnt believe what he sawandburst into tears. Iremembernow.


    This hoe was the tool Mr. He used to use when he was alive, and thebloodstainon it was from Mr. He himself.


    He Kui told us that his father was workinginthe field one day. Little He Kui was ying with marbles in front of his housewhen ahuman smuggler passed by his house andtriedto kidnap him.


    His father came homejust in time. He was enraged when he saw the smugglerandfuriouslyhithim with his hoe. Although Mr. He managed to save his son and killed the smuggler, he was hurt. His blood dripped on his hoe.


    At that time, wehadnt builtthis house yet.So my father buried the hoe here. It wasduring the olden days, and wewere inarural area that didnt have police. Moreover, the victim was a human smuggler. Thatwas why my father wasnt arrested for the crime.


    After talking, He Kui wept louder. With a perplexed face, hesaid, Is it because my father killed someone? Is that whyhe couldnt rest even after he died?


    Theres always a cause-effectrtionship. But no matter what, your fatherisgone. He shouldnt endure torment.


    Iforted He Kui and poured gasoline on the hoe and the fabric, burningtheminto ashes.


    Mr. Hewasnt the oneattached to this hoe. It washis angerthat had stayed behindfrom the timehe killed the human smuggler. Thatwaswhy I didnt show mercy to the hoe.


    And, as the old mans body had been affected by the hoe, he had troubled his daughter-inw.Now thatthe hoe was burned, she could sleep well at night.


    LittleBrother Zhang, since youveburned the hoe, will Mr. He return? Li Mazi reacted, patting his thigh with a dispirited face.


    I nodded and exined,If hewasjust a soul, hewouldnenow thatthe hoeisdestroyed. Buthes a walkingcorpsenow. Thats why he will return with or without the otherworldly item.


    He Kui knew that his father woulde back at night, so he went to buy a lot of offerings. At nightfall, he set up an altar by the hole and offered three joss sticks and two candles.


    At around midnight, the sounds of footsteps came from the hole. He Kui stood up and looked as though he wanted to jump into the hole.


    Li Mazihurriedtostop him. What should we do?WillMr. He be madnow thatthe hoe is gone?


    Imade anOKsignand tookoutthe Emei Piercer,waiting. Soon, a shadow appeared in the hole. He was bendinghis bodyhere and there.It seemedhe was looking for the hoe.


    A momentter, he slowly turned as though he was about to leave. I wouldnt let him leave, of course. From a distance, I stabbed him with the Emei Piercer.


    AhThe shadow turned and screamed strangely. He thrust hishands toward me. I jumped asideand triedto lure him up.


    The old man had no color on his face, but his eyes were strangely red. He looked at me maliciously. However, he didnt do anything.


    I was worried. If he didnt jump up here, it would be hard to get him. To provoke him, I boldly came near him to stab him again. This time, the old man waspletely enraged. He grunted and jumped upndingon the floor. Then, he crazily aimed at me.


    I turned to Li Mazi and screamed, Mazi, light up the candles!


    At the same time, I used the Emei Piercer toangerMr. He, making him swing his arms toward me. Every time he moved, he created a waft of wind. However, as his body was stiff, he couldnt reach me easily.


    Soon, Li Mazi lit up the candles. With the flickeringcandlelight, I saw Mr. Hes featuresclearly. He was wearing a ck shroud. His back washunched, andhis fingernails were around five or six centimeters long.


    When He Kui saw his father, he cried againand rushedtoward him. I wanted to stop him, but it was toote.


    The old man sneeredevillyandgrabbed He Kui by his neck,liftinghim off the floor.


    Dad, Im He Kui, your son! Cough! Cough!


    He Kuisface turned red. I cursed under my breath and stormed forward. I used allmy strength to stab the Emei Piercer into the old mans arm. The old man retracted his arms as though he got an electric shock. Li Mazi seized the chance to pull He Kui away.


    He Kui gasped for his breath and said,Master Zhang, dont hurt my father.


    Li Mazi pantedfor breath.Are you nuts?Hesnot your father anymore!Do you not understand?


    The old man was aiming at me, but when he heard Li Mazi and He Kui talking, his malicious eyes dimmed. With a puzzled face, he turned to He Kui.


    I didnt expect that the old manwouldstill be sensitive to his sons voice. I gesturedand askedHe Kui to talk more.


    He Kui moved away from Li Mazi and pointed at the offerings on the makeshift altar. He said tohis father,Dad, Iveprepared the foodyou loved the most. Im going toburna lot of paper money for you. You shouldntbe stingy. If you want to eatsomething, just buy it.


    The old manwas still bewildered, but he was listening to He Kui and looking at the offerings. The evil energyaroundhim scatteredquite alot. I exhaled and thrust the Emei Piercer right at his throat.


    Puff!


    Alongwith the windstearing noise, ck mist emitted from the old mans throat. He slowly slumped onto the ground like a deting balloon. His long fingernails retreated into his skin.


    He Kui knew his fatherwasgone for real this time. He got on his knees and cried. His wife rushed in from the living room. She gavekowtows to her father-inws body on the ground.


    A momentter, I thought they had cried enough, so I pulled them up. We spent the rest of the nightpreparinganother grave for Mr. He.


    The reasonMr. He had be a walking dead was his grave. I checked thegeomancyand chose a medium-quality grave for him. I wanted to ensure that the old man wouldnt be tortured again.


    However, what made me happy was that after the incident, He Kui and his wife seemed to have changedpletely. Every weekend, they would take their daughter to visit Mr. Hes grave. They would burnjoss sticks to himand tellhimabout somerandom familyaffairs. He Kuis wife had changed her attitude toward her father-inw and husband. She oftenplimented her husband in front of her fathers grave, too.


    When he was alive, even though his stomach was growling, he gave the best eggs to his son.


    When he was alive, he stumbled his way through snows and winds just to take a lookat hisson.


    And after he died, he crawled out of his grave just to pluck the grass and take care of his sons vegetable garden. How could they find a nice father like that?


    The father had brought up his son, and his sonlefthimfora faraway ce. Itwas one of the greatestpainsin this world.


    If one day, youfindthat your parents cannot walk anymore,


    If one day, youfindthat your parents lost their appetite,


    If one day, your parents ask you tovisit them more,


    Please throw aside anything that burdens your mindandtake your parents to watch a movie,havea nice dinner with them, andholdtheir hands justastheydid with youwhen you were a child,because youre the only thing they have in theirst days.

 Chapter 627: Strange Dog Barking

    Chapter 627: Strange Dog Barking


    After this case, I felt the difficulty of being a parent one more time. I couldnt help but think about Yin Xinyues parents. They hadnt gotten rid of the shadow of the Eight-hundred-mile Scaled Dragon yet.


    When we left the He family, He Kuiofferedme five thousandrenminbi. I didnt receive it. I didntck money, and his family was really poor.


    I decided to make it an act of kindness!


    Although Li Mazi didnt mind helping people, we hadnt earned much this time.Around two or three days after we returnedhome, he encouraged me to go out and see if we could find any new cases.


    Youcan findotherworldly items only by chance,andneverif you look for them actively. What the heck are you rushing for?


    I was pissed off, but Li Mazi didnt listen to me. As he was enthusiasticaboutsearching for otherworldly items, I didnt want to care about him anymore.


    During the next two or three months, Li Mazigota few cases. I couldnt persuade him, so I had to follow him. They were just minor cases or some ghost-haunting cases. We didnt earn much from those cases but exhausted ourselves instead. Li Mazi finally epted his fate. He didnt urge me to go outto seek businesscases anymore. I finally had peace for myself. I spent timepracticingdrawing spiritual talismans,spells,and mantras.


    A few days ago, Chuyi called me. He told me he had left Dragon King Vige, so I shouldnt worry about him anymore. And, hetoldme that wemightmeet the people from Longquan Viatthe trade conference. I should practice my skills to prepare beforehand. He didnt mention my parents incident, so I had to keep it at the bottom of my heart and prepare myself as he had instructed.


    However,the old saying was always right. You dont seek trouble, but troublees to your door.


    Li Mazi had stayed still for a few days, and someonehadeto our door. Moreover, this time, our client had a special profession. He was an old manthat soldtofu. He asked us to call him Chen Tofu.


    That afternoon, I was wiping a kiln vase that dated back to the Ming Dynasty, when uncle Chen came in with his pole and baskets. I thought hehadein to invite me to buy his tofu, so I decided to ask him aboutit. Unexpectedly, he put down his heavy baskets and asked me curtly, Little brother, is Immortal Zhang in the shop?


    I was speechless. I thought to myself,Who the heck is spreading the word that Im an immortal?


    Moreover, I couldnt stand it when an old man in his fifties or sixties called melittle brother.


    Uncle, I am Zhang Jiulin. What do you need?


    Uncle Chen shot me a surprised nce. Perhaps it was because I looked so young.He thenstarted to tell me his story.


    Uncle Chens real name was Chen Jiefang.Since he had sold tofu for almost his whole life, people called him Chen Tofu.The name then becamehis alias. Hehadeto mebecausehe thought that something foulwaspesteringhim.


    However, when he said that, he didnt look scared at all. I became curious. Uncle, could you tell me more about it?


    Itsnotthatscary, but every time I pass by a vige tosell tofu, all the dogs in the vige bark at me non-stop! At first, the people there thought it was fun. But after a while, they recognized that every time I walked by the vige, all the dogswouldbark crazily. Moreover, they dont bark normally. They cryand howl. The people there said that Ihavesomething foul with me. They even said that Im evil and dont want me toe or walk by the vige anymore


    Uncle Chen sighed and said, Im old already, so Im not afraid of foul things. I dont need to go to that vige to sell tofu, either. But I dont feefortable living like this, and I want to get to the bottom of the problem.Ilearnedabout youwhile talking with a friend. Thats why Ive here to ask for your help.


    Have you ever kept a dog? What happened when you passed by other viges? I thought it was an interesting case.


    If only the dogs in that vige barked at him, it could beaproblem within that vige.


    Uncle Chen shook his head. I have never kept a dog. I like the quietness, andI cant stand dog barking.Nothing strangehappenswhen Igoto sell tofu in the other viges. Only the dogs in Xiaoliu Vige act strangely.


    If it isas yousay, youre notthe problem Iforted Uncle Chen. Then, I closed my shop to go to his house to take a look.


    Uncle Chen lived in a small courtyard. I saw arge stack ofdried grass and a donkey.


    If its a rainy day, I use this donkey to pull my tofu cart.


    I nodded and carefully observed his yard. There was nothing strange aboutit. And, with the presence of the donkey, his courtyard looked even livelier. His house had three rooms: his bedroom, his kitchen, and the roomwherehe made tofu. Ithad a small electric mill and a few bags of soybeans.


    After checking the whole ce, I told him, Uncle, theres no problem in your house.


    Hewasnt convinced, soI had to take out thepass and check his house one more time. Thepass didnt show any strange reaction.


    In the end, to assure his mind, I went to his neighbor and borrowed a dog. At first, the dog barkeda bitbecause it was in an unfamiliarhouse.However, after a while, it calmed down. It meant that Uncle Chens housedidnt haveaproblem.


    What happened to me, then? asked Uncle Chen.


    After I had proven that his house was okay, Uncle Chen was still skeptical.Old people didnt like trouble, and if he couldnt solve the problem, he would never sleep well.


    Ididnt haveanything important to do these days, so I askedhimto take me to Xiaoliu Vige to take a look.


    Uncle Chen was happy. He immediately prepared hisdonkey-drawncart and put his pot of tofu on it. I got on the donkey cart and observed the scene at twilight. I feltthat I had just time-traveled to ancient times.Itfelt good.


    After half an hour, Uncle Chen turned andsaid,Immortal Zhang, sir. Look, thats Xiaoliu Vige.Please listen ifthedogs are barking.


    I nodded andpricked my ears up to listen. At the same time, I craned my neck to see.


    The said vige was still far awayfromus. The outermost house was around five or six hundred meters away. Thatwas why I thought Uncle Chenwas paranoid. It was too far;how could the dogs see him now?


    Unexpectedly, after we moved dozens of meters more, we heard the dogs in the vige barking!


    Usually, one or two dogs would bark first. Then,theother dogs would followas though they had received the signal. But this time, it sounded like all the dogs in Xiaoliu Vige had started barking at the same time!

 Chapter 628: The Odd Story of Tofu

    Chapter 628: The Odd Story of Tofu


    As thedonkey-drawncart was approaching the vige, the dog barking became louder and clearer.


    Indeed, all the dogs in the vige acted as Uncle Chen had told me. They were barking crazily, and I could sense fear in their barking. It seemed something very dangerous or horrible was about to take ce.


    I frowned. Uncle Chen, since whendid thedogsstartbarking at you?Youve been selling tofu for so many years.Did it just happen recently?


    Uncle Chen thoughtfor a moment.I dont remember the time clearly, but Im sureit startest year.


    It seemed the vige had something new, or thevigershad changedthegeomancy. Otherwise, the dogs wouldntfrantically barklike that. Dogs were atypeofspiritanimal. They could feel the existence of ghosts and souls, and they would bark when they felt endangered. Thatwas why people in rural areas liked to keep dogs. It wasnt just to prevent thieves, but also to prevent ghosts from entering their houses.


    I didnt dare to imaghe thing that was scaringall the dogs.However,Iwassure it was a big boss! My intuition told me thatthis casewouldnt be solved aseasilyas the previous cases. I called Li Mazi to bring me the Holy Mother Scepter and the Yin and Yang Umbre.


    Uncle Chen became tense when he saw my cautiousexpression. Immortal, did younoticesomething?


    I frownedand said, Those dogs are barking at an ominous thing.Then, I stood up on the cart to check out Xiaoliu Vige. It was twilight, the moment when day and night, Yang and Yin shifted. If therewassomething foul in the vige,nowwould be the time it would show up or leaveamark. Evenifit could concealitself, Iwould sense the anomaly through the abnormal air movement.


    However,we hadentered the vige,andI hadntnoticedanything. I even feltthatthis vige was quite peacefulpared to other ces. This ce gave me an unknown but firm feeling.


    The people here might have been worried that the trucks could break their roads, so they had installed two big rock columns at the vige entrance to narrow the road. The space between the two columns was just enough for a small vehicle topassthrough. Uncle Chen was worried that his cart would brush the columns here and there, so hegot out ofthe cart. I also followed him to the back to help him push the cart.


    After we passed the columns, before I could get on the cart, I saw many people congregating. They werepointing at us.They didnt lookangrybut worried. A middle-aged man walked out of the crowd. He came and offered Uncle Chen acigarette,and saidwith a twisting face,Brother Chen, the dogs in our vige keep barking. I think you should


    That middle-aged man wanted to ask us to leave politely. Uncle Chen didntbemad. He puffed his cigarette then saidin a serious tone, Old Liu, Im not here to sell tofu. Im here to help.


    Old Liu was bewildered. His gaze turned to me and the yellowbagon my back. His eyes becamevignt. He stiffly asked, Brother, what do you mean?


    Uncle Chen thought that his house hadaproblem, so he came to me for help. Ive checked his house carefully. I found nothing strange about it. Thats why Ithinkthe problemlieswithin your vige. Weve here to take a look. If you dont believe me, we can leave, I said faintly.


    SinceOld Liu didnt give me a polite look, I wasnt going to be polite to him.


    Old Lius countenance changed. He sternly looked at me and then at Uncle Chen. Then, he turned to the people behind him and said, Stop watching. Go home for dinner, folks!


    After he said that, the crowddispersed. It seemed this man had some power in this vige. After all the peopleleft, he put on a wry smileandextendedhis hand toward me.


    Good evening, I am Liu Dali,theVige Elder of this vige.He apologized for his manner and told us about the situationinthe vige. He understood that the problem wasnt from Uncle Chen fortwo reasons. One,when Uncle Chen wasnt in the vigesellinghis tofu, the dogs still barked crazily. Two,when some vigers ate tofu, the dogsbarkedcrazily.However,themotion wasnt as big as when the tofu seller came.


    Beingthe Vige Elder, LiuDali wasconcerned for hispeoples wellbeing, so he had to push the me on Uncle Chen. Recently, he had secretlyinvitedsomegeomancers. They came and did someexaggeratedmoves, achieving nothing, orran away with a panicked face. Some had asked Liu Daly to pay a huge sum to help this vige. However, as Liu Dali was keeping this problem a secret from his vigers, he couldnt ask them to contribute money. In the end, nothing had been resolved yet


    After he said that, he sighedand pulledmy arm. If you hadnte here,Master, I think I would have asked the folks in our vige to stop eating tofu forever! Please, help us!


    Hmph! Before I could answer, Uncle Chen snorted and pulled his donkey cart. It seemedhe was leaving.


    Ifelthewas angrythat Liu Dali hadpushed the me forthis unfortunate event on him. Liu Dali and I hurried to stop him. Unexpectedly, the old man wanted to leave, no matter what.


    Feeling helpless, I told him, Uncle Chen, the thing that has caused trouble here somehow rtes to tofu. We would need to use your tofu tonight. I dontthink youshouldleave


    Okay, Illleave my tofu hereforyou to help this vige, Immortal Zhang. Dont letitharm people, saidUncle Chen.


    Then, hethrew a hostile look toward Liu Dali. He left his donkey cart inthevige and went home. I shruggedand lookedat Liu Dali.


    Liu Dalismiled reluctantly. Chen Tofu is a good man. However, hes too stubborn.


    After this shortevent, the sky waspletely dark. Liu Dali and I pulled the donkey cart to his house and tied the donkey by the stack of woods behind his house. Hekindlyinvitedme to have dinnerat his home. No matter what, I needed to wait for Li Mazi to bring me my tools, so I agreed.


    Liu Dali happened to have a dog in his house. When I came to the courtyard, I saw the dog lying on the ground, whining. It wascurlingits body into a ball. Its head was cockedto the side.It ignored me,a stranger who had just intruded into the house.


    I frowned and wanted to approach the dog to see what it was looking at. It could help me guess the direction of that foul thing. Unexpectedly, as soon as I moved close to it, the dog jumped up. I was lucky that it was chained. Otherwise, it could have bitten me already!


    The dog sawthat I had stoppedapproaching itanddidnt mind me anymore. Itid backdown. This time, it lookedin anotherdirection. I decided to try a few more times. The dog reacted in the same way. However, it would change its direction every time iiddown. I thoughtthat thiswasnt a good method.


    Iwanted towait and see what would happenat night. If that thing was interested in tofu, I thought it woulde out, no matter what.


    Alittle girl around four or five years oldstayed inLiu Dalishouse. He told me she was his granddaughter, a kindergartener in the vige. After dinner, the little girl nicely sat down and did her homework. SheaskedLiu Dali to help her from time to time. I liked kids, so Iyedwith her for a while.


    After the little girlfinishedher writing exercise, Dalis wife took her to the bedroom. I lifted my head to check the clock. It was 8:00 PM already,andLi Mazi hadnte here yet. I took out my phone to call him, but the linedidnt connect.


    I frowned. I tookout the Emei Piercer from my bag andrushedoutside. Liu Dali hurriedlyranafterme. Whats wrong?


    Uncle Liu, stay here and wait for me. Im going to fetch my friend.


    I didnt turn aroundand randirectly to the vige entrance.Alongthe way, I heard the dogsbark non-stop.I recognized that the situationwaseven more serious than I had imagined. Those dogs had been barking for more than two hours. They should be exhausted. What made them bark and howlwith noregardfortheir lives?


    When Ireachedthe vige entrance, I realized that I should call Ru Xue. She told me that Li Mazi had departed right after receiving my call. He had left three hours ago!The strange thing was thatthe distance only required one hour!


    Li Mazi, are you here? Li Mazi!


    I was bewildered for a while, butI pulled myself togetherand called his name. However, my voice wassilenced by thedeafening dog barks. Moreover, Li Mazi wasnt in the vige. If hewas, he would have called me. I thought he had identally provoked that foul thing.Ordinarypeoplecould easilyenter the vige. This time, Li Mazi was carrying the Holy Mother Scepter and the Yin and Yang Umbre, two powerful weapons. The evilcreatureswould automaticallyconsiderhim their enemy.


    I patted my thigh in regret. But then, Ithought ofa solution. I could read the spell to awake the Holy Mother Scepter.Oncethe Holy Mother Scepter radiated gold light, I could spot Li Mazis whereabouts!


    It required a lot of magical power to cast the spellfrom adistance. However, to save Li Mazi,thiswas the only solution I had. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, ready to read the spell.At thismoment, Liu Dali suddenly called me. Wed exchanged numbers before dinner; thatwaswhy hehadmy number.


    Uncle Liu, whats wrong? I thought he wanted to know where I was, so I told him that I was at the vige entrance. While talking with him, I kept scanning the ce.


    Liu Dalis voice was shaking on the other end of the line. YoungMaster, you shoulde back. Hurry! Something...Somethings wrong here

 Chapter 629: Prince Liu An of Huainan

    Chapter 629: Prince Liu An of Huainan


    After hearing that, my heart sank. Gritting my teeth, I ran toward Liu Dalis house.


    When I came to his door, I didnt hear the dog barking.


    Soon, I found the dog lying dead inside the courtyard. Its body wascurled into a ball.I even saw a streak of blood on the corner of its snout.


    I had a really bad feeling.I hurriedinto the houseand saw Liu Dalilyingunconscious on the ground.


    It was an emergency,soI didnt have time to consider a lot. I directly scooped a bowl of water from the water tank and sshed it on his head.


    Liu Dali shiveredandopened his eyes. What happened to me?


    What happened after I left? I asked.


    Nothing. Wheres your friend? Liu Dai didnt care about the water on hisface. He looked a little flusteredas he lookedbehind me.


    I was surprised. Didnt you just call me?


    No,I justwentto my room and felt a little tired. I sat on the couch and rested until now. He shook his head, his face perplexed.


    Damn it! Weve beentricked. I cursed under my breathand feltlike a dummyrunning back and forth. I needed togo back! If that thing had tricked meintoleavingthe vige entrance, it would mean that Li Mazi was there just recently!


    I rushed out again. On my way, I checked the donkey cart in the yard. The donkey looked deadas ity on theground, and the cartwas next to it. Subconsciously, I ran toward the cart to check if the tofu was stillthere.I found nothing. All the tofu was gone.There wasnt evena speck of flour.


    Is that thingalreadyhere?Liu Dali appeared behind me. Seeing the scene, his legs turned into jelly. He slumpedonto the ground,his eyes lookingspiritless.


    Hiswordsreminded methat the dogs in the vigewerentbarkingorhowling anymore.


    I pulled him up.It seems somethingatethe tofuandleft. I dontthink itwillshowup againtonight. Uncle Liu, you should go back to your room to rest.


    After that,I headed to the vige entrance.


    I feltbitter. The opponent had inaudibly captured Li Mazi and eaten all the tofu right under our watch. Ithadeven trickedmeintorunning back and forth. Sadly, Ihadnt gained any clues.


    While I wasrackingmy brain to find a solution torescueLi Mazi, he called me. I thought that Li Mazi was being manipted, so Isaidcoldly, Who are you? What do you want?


    LittleBrother Zhang, Im Li Mazi. Where are you?Li Mazis voicewentthrough the phone.


    His voice soundedreal. Brother, are you okay?


    Im okay. Im standingby the stone column at the vige entrance. Come get me.


    AfterI hungup the call, I dashed to the vige entrance. Indeed, Li Mazi was standing by a stone column, holding the Holy Mother Scepter. When he saw me, he smiled.LittleBrother Zhang, Im rich now!


    Stopspoutingnonsense. Tell me, where did you go justnow?


    I heaved a sigh of relief as Li Maziwas still jokingwith me. I reallycaredabout this man.


    Li Mazi didnt talk. He produced an immacte white jade from his pocketand gave it to me. Hey, can you tell me how oldthis jade is?


    The jade was square, and it felt warm in the palm. The main side was perfectly polished,whilethe other side had many small holes that looked like the cells on a honeb.


    I frownedand said,Its a good jade. Good to wear. From the color and texture, Imguessing its from the Qin-Han era. Its a little bad that ithas holeson the otherside. Otherwise, it would be worth a lot of money.


    Well done, LittleBrother Zhang!


    Li Mazi gave me a thumbs-up. Then, he kept fiddling with that jade, making melookat one side of the jade and then the other side. After a while, he asked, What do you think itlookslike?


    A block of tofu!


    I answered instinctively since the cell-like holes on the other side looked like the bubbles in the tofu.Something suddenlyshed in my head. I feltincredulous. Is it


    Youvegot it! Li Mazi interrupted me, then excitedly exined to me.


    It turned out that when he entered the vige, the sky was already dark. He wanted to call me. Then, he saw a man wearing brocade clothesingathim, asking him where he wanted to go. Since Li Mazi knew that I was in the Vige Elders house, he asked the old man how to get to the Vige Elders house,sohe didnt call me. The old man offered to show him the way. Li Mazi followed him without hesitation.The old man had walked for a long time, and the surroundings didnt have any houses anymore. Li Mazi recognizedthat thesituation was wrong. Gritting his teeth, he was ready to use the Holy Mother Scepter to attack the old man.


    Kid, dont be scared. I just want to tell you a story.


    The man wearing brocade clothes gentlyraisedhispalm,and the Holy Mother Scepter automatically left Li Mazis hand. Li Mazi knew hewasntthe old mans equal opponent. Moreover, the old man didnt want to hurt him. He decided to listen to what the old man wanted to tell him.


    The old man said that he had livedduringthe Han dynasty, which was two thousand years ago. He was Prince Li of Huainan, but he wasnt interested in being a prince. He liked to makedeliciousfoods. One day, while he was trying to cook something new with soybeans, he discovered that if he put a pinch of gypsum into soybean, he could create soft, white tofu. He was the one who invented tofu in China.


    The emperor wanted topliment his invention, so he ordered people to make a jade that looked like tofu to reward him. Prince Lialways worethe jade and never left it for evenaday. However, his good daysdidnst long.The imperial court issued an order to cut the vassal and divided his governednd. Although he wasnt interested in politics, he had be a sacrifice inthepolitical war. He died withagrudgeforacrime of treason he didntmit.


    Liu An...Hes actually Prince Li of Huainan!


    I was soexcited that my body shivered. Prince Li of Huainans greatest achievement was his invention of tofu. It had be what he wanted to follow and develop for the rest of his life. It wasnt hard to exinwhyhe would appear when the tofu guy came to the vige to sell tofu. And, to exin why the dogs barked, I thought they could sense the imperial blood from Liu An. They barked because they were scared.


    However, I was curious why Liu An hadshownup these days, and why he wanted to give Li Mazi his tofu jade. Igestured to LiMazi to continue talking.


    Idontknowthe reason. He told me the story then gave me the jade. Before he left, he said, Wealth and pride, everything is predestined. When you die, you will have to reincarnate.


    I repeated what Liu An told Li Mazi in mymind. Suddenly, I felt warm inside. He meant that wealth and pride werent important. When people died, they couldnt bring anything with them.


    He had vanished and was willing to let go of everything, including his glory. I thought that he wouldnte again. Ifwe had brought him tofu earlier, this incident wouldnt have happenedat all.


    I recalled a line from a poem by Li Bai: Whenthings aredone, Itakemy merit and fame with me.


    Liu An had done that. He had slept for more than one thousand years underground. His mood wasnt affected by the world outside. I admired and respected him!


    After a long time, I pulled myself togetherand asked, Do you remember where he took you?


    Li Mazi thought for a while, then nodded. However, I interrupted him before he finished.Its all right. No need to tell me.Let him rest. We shouldnt disturb him.


    I wanted to go and see his spirit topliment him. However, after thinking about it again, the best respect we could give him was to not disturb him.


    In this life, no matter how hard peoplepeted for fame and wealth, no one would think that Prince Li ofHuainan, theprince who had invented tofu, was buried in a remote corner of this small vige.


    He had stayed here as though it was the Purnd, watching andughing at thispetitive mortal world.

 Chapter 630: Fengdu, the Ghost City

    Chapter 630: Fengdu, the Ghost City


    Li Mazi loved the tofu jade a lot, the one that Liu An had given him. He kept bragging about it with me all the time. However, he didnt want to sell it.


    Hey, Li Mazi, why dont you sell it? I teased him.


    Ithas gained spirituality, andno amount of money canbuy it.He said seriously, which delighted me. I thought that only Liu An could make Li Mazi, aman who treasured money more than his life, beuninterested in money for a while.


    For the next few months, Istayed with himduringmy leisure time. When Yin Xinyue had free time, we went to visit my inws. Theyhadboth recovered, and their daily activities werent affected anymore.


    Yin Xinyuewas able to easeher worries. When she saw me, she always showed her gratitude.


    I treated my inws as my real parents, so I asked her not to do that.Inadvertently, she would still show mean expression full of gratitude every time, soI just letherdo what she felt okay with.


    After visiting her parents, Yin Xinyuewentback to work. I spent another month doing nothing. And soon, the annual Ghost Festival was on its way. Chuyi called me first. Jiulin, in three days, I will see you in Chongqing.


    As my inws situation was undercontrol, I didnt lie to Li Mazi anymore. I told him about the situation and asked him to watch my antique shop.


    Li Mazi shouted at meoverthe phone. I justughed and hung up the call.


    When I arrived at Chongqing, Chuyi was already there.To my surprise, I saw Zen MasterBaimei. They were staying in a motel near the mountain hill. Chuyi nodded at me when he saw me. His face didnt look bad, so I guessed he had solved the problem between him and his father-inw.


    However, Zen MasterBaimeididnt look healthy. Sometimes, he even coughed. I frownedand asked, Are you okay, Zen Master?


    A KingCorpse attacked me a few days ago. But no worries, cough, cough


    Zen MasterBaimeiwaved his hand as though he was all right. However, before he could finish, he coughed again. I worriedly looked at Chuyi.


    Chuyisaid faintly, Thisold monkistough. He wont dieso easily.Then, he changed the topic.Thenews has been confirmed. The Longquan Vi will join the Gates of Hell TradingConference.


    Imadea faceand thoughtabout how the Longquan Vi had trapped me time aftertime. I balled my fistsand saidcoldly,When Igetthe mermaidstears, Illshowthem!


    You think toooptimistically, Chuyisaidwith an emotionless face.Im afraid the Longquan Vis reason foringhere this time is to calcte the debt with us.


    I was bewildered and said, What do you mean?


    Do you remember what happened in Sanshui Vige?


    Yeah, what aboutit? I nodded.At that time, thelittle Daoist boy had sacrificed himself to save us. Under the surge of my rage, I had beheaded the guy from the Longquan Vi. Afterthatcase, the people from the National SecurityBureauhadckmailedme intosolving a casefor them.


    The guy we killed was one of the four great Elders of the Longquan Vi.


    Chuyi didnt have a natural face when he said that. He rubbed his templesand toldme the details.


    TheLongquan Vi had four great Elders. People often referred to them as Wind Tigers and Cloud Dragons. Every one of them had their tasks. Besides Xiang Yuanzhen, the one we killed, the other three were all experts.


    Xiang Yuanzhen used his brain to survive, not his talents. He had lured us into an evil formation to kill us.


    At that time, while he was working on a mission, he found meby chance. He decided to use his wits totakeme down. Chuyi arrivedintime. In the end, the elder had to pay with his life.


    After this incident, the Longquan Vi was enraged.However, because of Chuyi,Zen MasterBaimei, and the Zhang family in Jiangbei, they hadnt attacked me.


    Chuyi arched one brow when he came to this part. SincetheLongquan Vi hasopenlybragged that they will join this trading conference, it means they have up with a n.


    Zen MasterBaimeifiddled with the chain of m beads in his hand. He saiddeeply,Chuyi is right. Weve pressed them long enough. They want to strike us now.


    I felt something hidden in what Zen MasterBaimeihad just said. I decided to ask him.


    Chuyi faked a cough to interrupt Zen MasterBaimei. Zhang Jiulin, you should get something to eat. We dont have much time.


    I was puzzled.However,if Chuyi wanted to hide things from me, he wouldnt answer even if I pestered him. I simply put it asideanddidnt askany further.


    After lunch, Chuyi asked me and Zen MasterBaimeito rest while he wentsomewhere. He took his sword with him.He didnt tell us where he washeaded, or what he wanted to do.


    Iidon my bedand shiftedfrom side to side. The Longquan Vi upied my head.Whatwill theydo this time?


    I was scared of thembecause this group of people didnt fightindaylight. They were good at hiding and striking when you werent vignt. As I didnt haveameticulous mind like Chuyi, I was afraid I would step into their trap.


    Anyway, the more I was afraid of them, the more thrilled Ifelt.If I could use this chance to solve the problem between me and the Longquan Vi, it would be much easier for me than dealing with itter.


    With that thought, I rxedandslowlydrifted intoalight sleep. At twilight, Chuyi returned to the hotel. I found dust and ashes on his faceandgarments, and his trousers were wet. He looked tired.


    Where did you go?


    I was checking something, Chuyi said coldly. Hemade himself a cup of instant noodlesandswallowed the foodquickly. It seemed he was starving.


    After eating, he didnt wait for my questionsand talkedfirst. The market is open now. The localsand many staff ghosts are preparing the site. Not many people havearrived,he said with a trace of luck in his voice.The Longquan Vis people havent arrived yet. We should take this chance to get there first.This way, we can avoid their ambush.


    Wheres the market? I noddedto showmy agreement.


    Chuyi recognized that Ididntknow the location yet. Hesimply said, The Gate of Hell in Fengdu City.


    Fengdu?


    I took a deep breath. Fengduhadalways been considered a ghost city.ording tolegend, when people died, their souls wouldgothere. It was Hell on Earth in peoplesminds.


    Therewas a lot ofliterature and dramas that talked about Fengdu. Moreover, there were many details in historicalrecords that mentioned Fengdu the Ghost City.


    However, after the reform, the country had tried totone downor eliminate the presence of Fengdu to stop spreading superstition. However, the legend of thisghostcity had never stopped being less interesting to the tourists. Gradually, itbecamea big part of the tourist attractions here.


    I was earning money from dead peoplesstuff, soI had heard about the Ghost City many times. I wanted to go there.Atthis moment, I was both excited and anxious.


    I thought that Chuyi would take me there tomorrow. He would need to rest since he looked exhausted. Unexpectedly, heonlyrestedfor thirty minutes, then asked us to pack up.


    On the way to Fengdu, Chuyiexined to meabout the trading conference held at the Gate of Hell, which was underground. Since the entrance closed at dawn, we needed to go there at night.


    Howwillwe get out?What if theytrap us in there? I was worried.


    Zen MasterBaimeismiled and stroked his beard. Benefactor, theresno need to worry. The Ghost City is like an illusion. You can leave by thinking about leaving.


    I finally eased my mind.After thinking about it, I knew it was true. Most of the sellers and buyers inside were ghosts, and they wereasort of intangible illusion already.


    Chuyidrovehissportscar. Around two hourster, wereachedFengdu City. However, he didnt stopthe car.


    Do you need to prepare something else before wegoin there? I asked.


    The Gate of Hell isnt there. We need to go further.


    It turned out that when the government fixed the Three Gorges Dam,Fengdu was flooded with river water. The current Fengdu City was the relocatedcity, not the original one.


    After driving for half an hour more, Chuyi finally pulled over.After getting out of the car, Isaw thatthe surroundingswereawastnd with high wild grass.Some rickety cottages swayedfrom side to side when the wind blew.


    On the other side of the road was a small river. Since the topography here was rtively t, the water in the river should flow slowly. However, the river in front of me had rapid water. From time to time, I could hear the water sshing.


    I took two steps forward. Instantly, a wave of cold air from the river hit me. I shiveredand sawa massive vortex in the middle of the river.


    Isthat


    Looking at the vortex that looked like a giant tornado, I quickly got it. Itcould bethe entrance to the Ghost City!


    Chuyi noddedand pointedat the vortex. At dawn, the water from the bed of the river willriseand fill that vortex. It will be a normal river. But when the nightfalles, it will look like this.


    Howetherearent any parked carshere? You told me that some people have arrived.


    Chuyi shot me a nce. There are many entrances to the underground market. Who said that everybody has to take this way?


    I felt awkward. I thought there was only one entrance.


    Then, Chuyi guided us to jump into the vortex one by one. At first, I was worried that the water would wet my clothes.However,the water vortex wasnt real. When the water hit me, I didnt feel anything.


    I didnt know howmuch timehad passed until the vortex disappeared. However, everything in front of me waspletely dark. I knew I wasatthe entranceofthe Ghost City!My nerves tensed up.


    Someone grabbed my arm, and my heart throbbed. I took out the talisman and was about to attack. Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimeihad jumped before me.That was whyI was sure that it wasnteitherof them who had just grabbed me.


    Then, the one holding my arm spoke.Jiulin, after a while, you will see something foul. Just hold onto me tight.Do not panic.


    It was Chuyis voice. I exhaled andreached aroundto find his arm.


    I didnt know why, but his body felt so cold. Before I could ask him,I heard Chuyis intermittent voice beneath me. Jiulin, there will be evil spirits in this entrance. No matter what you hear, do notpay attention. Well gather again down there.


    When I heard his voice, I couldnt help but shiver. There was a Chuyi down there and one next to me. Oneof them was a ghost! Who was the right one?


    Jiulin, dont let the evilspiritsfool you, advised the Chuyi next to me. Then, he shouted, Little ghost, do you wanna die?


    It sounded pretty much like Chuyis style. I prepared myselfand wasready to go with him. However, the voice of the Chuyi underneath arose again. Read the Sacred Text of Daoism. Otherwise,youwilldie!


    I immediatelyconcluded that it was the real Chuyi. If hewasfaking it, he wouldnt have reminded me to read the Sacred Text of Daoism. When Iwas aboutto read the Sacred Text of Daoism, someone strangled me. The fake Chuyi said with a dark voice,Youbusted me, but it doesnt matter. Haha, youre my prey now


    Whileughing, he strengthened his grip. I couldnt see his face, but I could feelhiscold and murderous aura.


    I couldnt find anything I could use to increase my strength. I wanted to take the talismans from my pockets, but I realized that theghosthad locked both of my hands.


    The person was strangling me with one hand andusedtwo other handstohold ontomy hands. So, he had at least three arms, or even more!


    I knew that pulling back and forth here was disadvantageous to me. I tried to bite my tongue to spit blood at him!

 Chapter 631: The Blue-and-White Bowl

    Chapter 631: The Blue-and-White Bowl


    When the fake Chuyi screamed, the force from his three hands was reduced at once. I took the chance to take outa few moretalismans from my pocketand palmed themon him.


    I had spent a few monthsdrawingthese powerful talismans. At the moment the talismans contacted the person, sparks shed. Then, the man whimpered in pain.


    Using the short light from the sparks, I saw the fake Chuyi.Itwas a monster with many arms growingonitsupper body. There were enough toform a circle.Itlooked like the Thousand-Hand Guanyin.Its neck grew a centipede head with two antennas as thick as thumbs.


    It seemed to be a centipede spirit that had encountered failure while cultivating.After thinking that I had just grabbed one of its legs, my stomach churned! Fortunately, after my talismans hit it, it was being burned. But,it could still chase after me.


    After I gotaway from the centipede spirit, Ibecamemore vignt. I grabbed the Emei Piercer I had putaroundmy waist. After a while, I heard Zen MasterBaimeis voice. Benefactor, please let me use your Emei Piercer for a while.


    In the darkness, I couldnt locate him. But if he asked for my help, he must be encountering something foul. Subconsciously, I wanted to throw the EmeiPiercerathim. But then, Chuyis voice echoed in the back of my head: No matter what you hear, do not pay attention!


    I wassocareless thatI almostlost my Emei Piercer! The foulthings herewerentas strong asZen MasterBaimei, so why would he ask me for help?


    To avoidanothersituation like this, I directly spat blood on the Emei Piercer. I activated it and spun it around me while reading the Sacred Text of Daoism.


    The Sacred Text of Daoism was working well, and I felt much calmer. There was no sounding at me. Soon, I sawthelight at the end of the tunnel. Before I could do anything, Inded on my butt.


    It was a hardnd, andI had to roll around to reduce the force. When Ipulledmyself together and got up, I saw Zen MasterBaimeiand Chuyi standing not far from me. They were brushing the dustofftheir bodies.


    I rushed to them. Are you all right?


    Chuyi shot me adisdainfullook, but hesaidto Zen MasterBaimeipurposefully,You see, hes alright. He even has free time to worry for the two of us


    Zen MasterBaimeichuckled and pattedmyshoulder. Its good that yourealright. Its our fault that we didnt remind you before we jumped in.


    I embarrassedly scratched my head, but I felt happy. Chuyi had never joked before.He always had a cold face. It seemed that after he had solved the problem with hisfather-inw, the knot between them was untied. It was good.


    I assessed the surroundings and found that we were standing in front ofthevige entrance. From a distance, the vige had the colors and shape of the past. There were many small, ck gs flying in midair, and some signboards rattling in the wind.


    Walking on the small street, I saw people wearing ancient clothes moving around. A man was riding a big horse, knocking on each door to notify the dwellers about something. It looked like a historical drama to me.


    While I was watching them, I thought Iwould takea photo of those ancient dressed people. Chuyi said, Dont look at them. They arent living people!


    His wordsmade me pull myself together. I put my phone back into my pocket.


    Most of the people you see here are ghosts and spirits. Dont worry, they have their rules. During the trade conference, they wont proactively mess with living people. In fact,to facilitate the trades, they will volunteer to help the living, Chuyi exined.


    Every year, some people with big guts woulde to join the trades in the Ghost City. They would try to earn something good from the dead. And,when theyreturnedto the mortal world, they would sell the items to antique businessmen like me.


    Im sure youve joined this market many times. Have you ever found any treasures?


    What Chuyi told me was new and interesting. I couldntrefrain from mycuriosity.


    I haveparticipated in theGhost Market many times, but Ive onlyeto find the stuff I need. I havent earned a profit byresellingthe items. And, thereare some things youcanonlyfindby chance.


    Chuyi said that to make me preparemyself,indicating that perhaps wewouldnt find the mermaidstearshere.


    Yeah, we can onlytake one step at a time.


    Hedidnt need to remind me. I understood that. If we kept the thought of sess in everything we did, we couldnt survive in this business.


    Chuyi was pleased with my reaction. Henodded, thensaid, Ivegot a friend who used the good fortune of a whole yearinexchange for a small bowl from a Ghost King in this Ghost Market. Later on, he recognized that it was a genuine blue-and-white porcin bowl from the Yuan Dynasty.It evenwenton the treasure hunting programonnational TV.Of course, he told the antique expert that it washis familyheirloom.


    Chuyi smiled mysteriously, Now,guess how much that bowl is worth.


    I thought then gave him a thumbs-up because real blue-and-white products from the Yuan Dynastyhadthe price of eight to ten millionrenminbiand more.


    Ten times more than that!


    I took a deepbreath.Hewasnt joking, but what kind ofbowl wasas expensive as one hundred million?


    Its a bowl the Mongolian royal family used to use. When Ogedai Khan marched to the East to fight in the European Continent, he used this bowl to eat. And when Temujin was seriously sick, he used this bowl to make him a concoction. He smacked his tongue while talking.


    I felt excited. When someones luck came tothem, nothing could stop it! Who could havethoughtthat a normal-looking bowlwould have a rtionship with those two famous figures?


    But then, Chuyi continued the story. My friendbecamea parvenu. But people were jealousofhim. In the end, he was murdered horribly. Chuyi dropped his hands. Thats why we say we dont know if its good luck or bad luck when something happens. Making ends meet with our sincere work is much more precious and sustainable than anything else.


    I nodded. He was right.


    While talking, we reached the center of the vige. It wasasChuyi had told me. Most of the ghosts around acted asifwe didnt exist. Sometimes, theymadegestures as though they weed us. This was the first time I thought that ghosts werent really scary.


    Alongside the streets were inns,tea houses, and shops. Chuyi casually took us to an inn. He did it so naturally;it was asifhe had known this ce for years. Theinnkeeperwore shroudsand satatthecounter. When he saw Chuyi, he smiledand weedhim respectfully. Priest Chuyi, youve finalle. Shall we use the old rule?


    Chuyi gave him a slight nod. It seemed he was a regr customer here. Theinnkeepertook us upstairs and checked us into three roomsnext to each other. However, since Chuyi was worried about me, he asked me to share the room with him, while Zen MasterBaimeiwould take the next room.


    Is thatinnkeepera ghost or a human? I couldnt help butaskafter theinnkeeperwas gone.


    I could see that theinnkeeperacted like a living human, but he was wearing a shroud. Chuyi understood me well. He exined, This inn owner is a smart man. Wearing shrouds will make the ghosts treat him friendlier.


    I felt amused. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. That manwas willingtoriskhis life just to earn money.


    Anyway, it was his choice. I shouldnt say anything.

 Chapter 632: One-Day Tour in the Ghost Market

    Chapter 632: One-Day Tour in the Ghost Market


    I checked the time and found that it wasearly morning. However, it was still twilight outside.


    Theres no daylight in Fengdu. Most of the time, it will look like twilight. There will be five hoursof darknessto give the living people who jointhe Ghost Market time to rest.


    This Ghost Market is really human-friendly.


    I shifted on the bed, but I couldnt sleep because I wastooexcited. Chuyi decided to takeme outside to widen my knowledge. I hurriedly got up. When we passed by Zen MasterBaimeis room, I wanted to call him to go with us. However, as I heard him snoring, I didnt want to disturb him.


    As soon as we got out of the inn, I scurried around to see the shops on both sides of the streets.


    Hey, calm down. You should wait. There will be good things to seeter,Chuyi told me.


    I refrained from my curiosityandwalked with him. After walking for around ten minutes, the path in front of us changed. Therewereno morestreetsor buildings.I sawsomething that lookedlike a traditional market. However, there was no roof.


    This is the location where the trade conferencewill beheld this time. However, it hasnt opened yet,sothere arentmany businessmen here. Although thereareonly a few sellers here, Icanseethepowerful mass of Yin energy theyvecreated in the air.Dont underestimate them. They are all on the Ghost King level, thousand-year-old monsters, or spirits living deep in the mountains. Theyveeearlybecause they are afraid that theywont be able tosell their goods. Although theyhavegood stuff, their stuffisvery expensive. Thats why theycan''t sell them fast, Chuyi exined to me.


    What are the prices?


    Your longevity, your childrens karmic rewards,stuff like that.


    I felt awkwardand thoughtthat it was understandable why they couldnt sell their stuff. Who would have the mind to exchange years of their life for some item?


    However, I was curious to see what they were selling. I wanted to go there, butChuyi hurriedly stopped me.


    Dont. Those Ghosts Kingslike to force peopleintobuying their stuff. Do not appear in front of them at any cost. They may stalk youter. Although they wont do anything to you during the time of the trade conference, they willholda grudge against youter.


    I didnt expect to have tolearn somany things for just a trade. Licking my lips, I wanted to leave. However, when I turned around, I saw a figure inside the market. Instinctively, I stopped walking.


    Whats wrong? asked Chuyi.


    I think Ive seenthat person before. Do you know him? I looked at a young man who looked smooth, chubby, and white. Although I had just caught a nce of him, Ihada familiar feeling.


    Chuyi carefully took a nceat thatman then said, Oh, hes a jade spirit. Every time Ie here, I see him. Whats wrong?


    A jade spirit?


    I was surprised. Then, I remembered the secretary who had dreamedofbeingmolested. When shewokeup, she had a lot of kiss marks on her neck. I had helped hersolvea case regardinga jade spirit. To prevent that thing from harming people, I had directly melted it.


    When Chuyi told me it was a jade spirit, I recognized that there wasaspecial auraaboutthose jade spirits.


    I had thought that I would see a lot of rare and interesting stuff, butI hadnt expected to encounter so many rules. Gradually, myenthusiasmwas drained, so I asked Chuyi to bring me back.


    Unexpectedly, he waved his handsand toldme not to rush. He checked the time then said, A treasure is about to show. Moreover, the seller wont force you to buy it. Lets wait and check it out.


    As hehad bemysterious again, my curiosity was aroused. Whatis it?


    Chuyi blinkedand blushed. What do men need the most?


    Money? I answered instinctively. Men had to feed theirfamilies. Money should be themostimportant thing.


    Chuyi shook his head. No. Of course, men need healthy kidneys.


    Haha! I couldnt help butugh.


    So, this ce also sells something like Viagra?


    Chuyi nodded. Wait and see.


    As soon as he said that, a melodic voice came from the sky. Hahaha, here Ie again!


    After that, a market stall suddenly appeared in the market alongwith a white-headed old man. As soon as he appeared, he started toworkwith an iron wok on his stall, whichcontained hot sand and dust. Sometimes, he used his hand to stir the dust like a chef stirring his vegetables.


    What is he doing?


    Just waitandsee.


    As the sand in the wok was heated up, many five-colored pellets appeared in the wok. They kept tumbling for a while. Soon, they exuded strong fragrances of shrimp and meat.


    The old man then conjured a male dog from his stall and exposed its body. Then, he took a pellet from his wok and put it into the dogs snout.


    After the dog had swallowed the pellet, it rolled on the ground as though it was in a frenzy. Soon, itidon the groundand panted.


    Before I could ask what had just happened,the dog slowlyfloatedup. It stopped around half a meterin the air.


    The dog spun slowly, revealing its weenie, which was small and soft at first. After eating the pellet, the dogs weenie turned red and big like a hot iron rod


    I was baffled. After a long moment, I pulled myself together.Howcan itbe?


    Chuyi nodded embarrassedly. That old man is a shrimp spirit. Because shrimp can boost mens stamina, hehasdecided toe here to sell his Divine Pellets.


    It turned out the pellets were calledDivinePellets.


    I guess his business is really good.I was curious.


    I think so.


    After saying that, Chuyi asked me to go back. On the way, I saw that his face was red.I felt hot, too.Thosepellets were truly divine as we couldnt help ourselves after just inhaling its fragrance.


    When wereturnedto the inn, the sky was dark. As there were only a few hours of night here, we seized the time to sleep to replenish our strength.


    However, not long after we went to sleep, there was a loudmotion outside.Chuyi and I almost got up at the same time. We heard people begging for mercy and someone shouting and crying.


    Curiously, I went to the window to see. Not far from our inn, ghosts were surrounding a spot on the street. There were also living humans mingling with the ghosts to watch the fun.


    Inside the circle ofghostida haggard-looking middle-aged man. He had wicked eyes, which wasnt a good first impression.


    Floating next to him was a cute, small rabbit that was constantly blowing dark gas toward him.Every time the dark gas hit him, the middle-aged man shivered. Soon, he vomited blood. It looked likehewouldntbe able to endureitfor a long time.


    Didnt you say that someone would ensure the security of the trade conference? That rabbit almost killedthe man.Why does nobodycare?


    That man looked like a living human. My chronic upational disease surged in me, making me want to save him.


    Chuyi shot a nce at the man then snorted. He deserves that. Ive seen this man. Hees here every year, but he always wants to make use of the ghosts. He promises to give them good stuff, like burning them more money paper, and offerings. But he has never kept his promise. Hegetsthe good stuff, but hedoesn''thelpthe ghosts.Hes capableandonly choosesto trick thelittle ghosts. Thats whypeople ignore him.


    Chuyi was a little angry. Hes even trickedthe dead. This sort of man should die. Moreover, the trade conference organizers wont care aboutasituation like this. You shouldnt put your nose in it.


    I nodded. I had thoughtof helpinghim because he was also human. I didnt expect to hear such a disgusting story.


    Chuyi went downstairs.He said,We can go and see. Just dont makeamove.


    I followed himas I wantedto see what the man had done to trickthe little rabbit. When wegotthere, the middle-aged man was dead. However, the onlookers hadnt left yet.The little rabbit had a small stall next to the dead body, and there was only one white hair on its stall.


    As the rabbit didnt transform into human form, it couldnt talk. Chuyi asked someone standing next to him,What happened?


    A ghost wearing a Chinese tunic garment kindly exined the situation to us.This man bought an Invisible Needle from the rabbit and promised that he would give offerings to it for three years. He didnt keep his promise. The rabbit waitedfor himin the marketthis time, andthe manwas killed as soon as he got here. He deservedit.


    I gave him a friendly smile and asked, Whats the Invisible Needle?

 Chapter 633: Wind Tigers and Cloud Dragons Elders

    Chapter 633: Wind Tigers and Cloud Dragons Elders


    The ghostexined to methatthisInvisible Needle wasmade from astrand of hairofthe rabbit. Every creature hadaunique feature. This rabbit had extremely silky but tough hair.


    Moreover, the rabbit had cultivated for years to makethisInvisible Needle. It wanted to use the needle to exchange for some years of receiving offerings from the mortals.However,it was tricked.Thatwas the reason why it had killed the middle-aged man.


    Then, the ghost wearingaChinese tunic gown told me how to use the Invisible Needle. The needle could change itsshape easilyand was pretty tough. I could use it as a hidden weapon.


    The best feature of this needle was that if I poured my blood into it, I could use my thoughts to control it to kill people orfetchsomethingfroma distance.


    After listening to him, I really liked the Invisible Needle. I thought that if I had it, it would be easier to deal with otherworldly items.


    Do you know the price of the needle?


    Oh, I dont know The ghost wearing a tunic gown waved his hand.He went to another stall after that. Fortunately, Chuyi could talk with spirits. As he saw that I wanted to know more about the needle, he then talked to the rabbit.


    After a moment of listening to some squeaking Ididntunderstand, Chuyigrimaced.He frowned then turned to me. It said that itisafraid of getting tricked again. This time, itwants blessings for fiveyears. Moreover, you have to sign a contract with it right here.


    I was surprised. Signing a contract was a normal event, which was simr toacontract in the mortal world. As I really wanted to buy it, signing the contract here wasnt a problem.The onlyproblemwas that the rabbitwantedblessings forfive yearsin a row! What a rip-off!


    It meant that for the next five years, every good deed Ididwould be counted for the rabbit!


    To ordinarypeople, five years withoutblessingswouldnt be a big deal. But inourbusiness, it was really dangerous.


    However, I just hesitated for a while before giving the rabbit a nod of agreement. I bit my fingerand was readyto dropmyblood into the rabbits mouth. As long as it drank my blood, our deal wouldgointoeffect.


    Chuyi suddenly pushed my arm awayand rolledhis eyes at me.Are you crazy? Dont you know whatit means to give up the blessings of fiveyears?


    I know, but I need to make myself stronger!


    Although Id solved many foul things, Ihad always beenunder the protection of Chuyi,Senior Shu, and Zen MasterBaimei. It was rare to have a chance to strengthen myself like this. I shouldnt let it slip away.


    You


    Chuyi was angry. His faceturnedred. He pointed at me as though he wanted to say something. I took the chancewhilehewasntpaying attention to jumptoward therabbit and drop my blood into its mouth.


    The rabbitraisedboth of its front legsand broughtthem together to show its gratitude to me. Then, it disappeared. The Invisible Needle slowly floated up and flew to my palm.


    Chuyi was bewilderedafter seeingthis. After the onlookers scattered,wereturned to the inn. At that time, Chuyi finally pulled himself together. He kicked me,causing me to rolltothe ground. He shouted, Youvelost your mind!


    I know my limits. I smiled and got up from the ground. I knew he was angry because he was worriedaboutme.


    He snorted and ignored me,and strodetoward the inn. I rushed behind him. When wereturned, Zen MasterBaimeiwas up. I took the chance and ignored my pride,and triedto earn Chuyis favor. Moreover, Zen MasterBaimeialsovouchedfor me. Finally, Chuyiwas no longermad at me. He spoke coldly, Dont do that again.


    Afterthatrecent event, my stomach growled. Chuyi, can we eat the food here?


    It wasnt a problem to stay in a ghostly inn.However,I found it hard toeatat a ghostly restaurant. Only Godknewwhat theywere usingto cook the food!


    Chuyi shot me a nce. There are many restaurants run by living humans here. They only open for a few days during the trade conference. These restaurants cant earn money. The owners just want tobefriend someexperts here and increase theirgood luck.


    I could finally ease my mindand followedhim to a restaurant calledReincarnation.


    The restaurant was decorated with touches of ancient times, and the waiters wore ancient garments. When the manager saw Chuyi, he immediately came to greet him. It seemed Chuyi was a regr diner here.


    The lobby was big. It hada few tables,witha set ofteawareand a newly brewed teapot oneach of them. I guessed these tables were reserved for those who wanted to have a seat and take a rest. The manager took us upstairs. There were some private rooms. Since no onehadehere for lunch or dinner, they didnt have many private rooms. Not long after we took a seat, the manager returned with food.The foodlooked clean. As I wasstarving,I directly dug in.


    Tomorrow is July 15th.I think theLongquan Vis people wirrivetoday.


    Whileeating, Chuyisaid,Although they wouldnt dare to do anythingduring the event, they may do something in the dark. You have to be careful.


    Yeah, dont let them get the better of you. They are good at making trouble. We want to find the mermaidstears, so trouble isnt good for us, saidZen MasterBaimei. Then, hetried to refrain himself from watching the food. He used his chopsticks to pick somevegetablesto eat.


    Iwasntreallyworriedabout the people from the Longquan Vias I would be withChuyi and Zen MasterBaimeiall the time. The only thing I was worried about now was the possibility of finding the mermaids tears here.


    At thismoment, I heardpeoplewalking outside. From the different noises, I thought there were four or five people. Curiously, I turned to the door to see. The manager wastalking to fourpeople. They were headedto the private room next to ours.


    This group of four included three men and a woman. The leader looked young with porcin skin. Two gray-haired menthat appeared to be the young mans bodyguards,escortedhim. Theyhad formidablemurderous auras.The woman wore sexy clothes. She looked strangely beautiful, just like an exotic flower.


    WhileI was looking at them, theyalsolookedat us. The young man was surprisedto seeme. Then, hebecameenraged and shouted, Zhang Jiulin!


    What?


    Hes Zhang Jiulin!


    When he said that,besidesthe restaurants manager, the other three people changed theirexpressions.They all turnedangryas though they had a great grudge against me!


    It took me a moment to react. Theycould bethe people from the Longquan Vi! As soon as I was about to retreat, the woman grabbed somethingfromher waist and threw it toward me.


    By the time I saw herthrow the hidden weapon, it was toote to avoid her attack. Fortunately, Chuyi had used his eight-faceted Han sword todeflectthe hidden weapons.


    After a series of nging noises, the hidden weapons were nailed deep into the wall. Evenaftershing withthe Han sword,thehidden weaponshada lot ofpower. It was enough to tell how strong the womans wrist was!


    When the others saw Zen MasterBaimeiand Chuyi, they changed theirexpressions. But soon, their fire-ring eyes were fixed on me.


    Chuyiwithdrewhis sword. He looked at the woman. Hisvoicegrewcold. Yi Zhangqing, what do you want?


    So the womans name was Yi Zhangqing, One Inch of Blue.From her appearance, I could understand it. She wore blue garmentsand her hair was dyedlight blue. Itgave her a seductivebutaggressivelook.


    Yi Zhangqing shot Chuyi a look. Before she could speak, the young man who had recognized me took a step forward. Looking at Chuyi, he said, You alsohavea hand in the murder of Elder Xiang, right?


    Yeah. Chuyi disdainfully withdrew his long sword. If you wanna fight, Ill be here after the Ghost Market is over!Butnow, youd better behave.


    Chuyiseyes became sharpas he assessedeach of them. Then, he weighed his Han sword. Actually, its okay tofightnow. Im not sure if IcanhandlethreeElders at the same time, but Im sure we can mess up this Ghost Market. We will all be expelledfor sure.


    You


    The young man pointed at Chuyi, but he didnt dare to attack. He gritted his teethand saidto the other three, Lets go!


    Then, he took the leadand wentdownstairs. Aftertheyleft, Chuyi exhaledand said,I was worried that they would attack us. I didnt expectto seeRyuzawa Ichiro. It seems the Longquan Vi wouldnt y iteasy this time.


    Ryuzawa Ichiro?


    I repeated the name doubtfully. It sounded like a Japanese name.


    Chuyi nodded. Yeah, Ryuzawa Ichiro is the youngest man. Hes the adopted son of the Longquan Vis Master, the Young Master of the Longquan Vi.


    People rumored that Ryuzawa Ichiro was the son of the best ninja in Japan. However, his family was eradicated when he was just a child. The Master of the Longquan Vi adopted himafter that. Since the Master didnt have any children, he loved andspoiledRyuzawa Ichiro.


    Ryuzawa Ichiro was powerful, and he knew ninjutsu.


    You shouldnt get involved with Ryuzawa Ichiro.


    I smiledand shookmy head.Itwasntsomething that acting carefully could solve. Would I smile and wee themiftheycameto my door?


    Ryuzawa Ichirohad hisninjutsu, but the other three also had rtively strong powers.


    Standing on his left was the One-armed Dragon. He was the oldestElder, and the leader of the Wind Tigers and Cloud Dragons. He was also the strongest. In the Longquan Vi, his cultivation base was only behind the Vi Master. Chuyi wasnt his equal opponent.


    In the past, afterhe wasbitten by a thousand-year Corpse King, he gritted his teeth and chopped off his own arm. It was enough to make me scared. He didnt care about his limb. How could he show mercy to me when he dealt with me?


    The old man standing on Ryuzawa Ichiros right was called Yin-Yang Tiger, also oneof the four Great Elders. His best feature was his pair of Yin and Yang eyes. He could see the Yin energy and the hidden dangers. People said that his eyes worked perfectly well bothday and night. As he was here, all of our movescouldbeseen through. I was sweating.


    Yi Zhangqing was thestElder, whose alias was Wind. She was an expertat usingfast-as-wind hidden weapons.


    Ever since she was young,she went through the eviltraining processofthe Longquan Vi. Shehadturned into an emotionless killing machine. Her first mission, which was also her graduating mission, was to kill her mother.


    When Chuyi said that, I couldnt help but interrupt him. I askedincredulously,Shekilledher mother?


    Yeah.


    Chuyi nodded. Yi Zhangqing didnt have a father. She lived with her mother, and they loved each other a lot. Onlybykilling the one she loved the most would make her a real assassin who could kill without blinking. After murdering her mother, Yi Zhangqing gradually built her name here. These years, shes in charge oftheLongquan Vis assassinating operations.

 Chapter 634: Invisible Needle

    Chapter 634: Invisible Needle


    After knowingwho these people were,I felt somewhat panicked. Any one of them could beat me. I told myselfthatno matter what, I had to stick to Chuyi!


    Afterwe ate ourmeal, we went to the market area one more time. There were more sellers now. However, we couldnt find the mermaidstears.Feeling helpless, we returned to the inn.


    It was a bad coincidence that the people from the Longquan Vi also stayed in this inn. I wondered if they had done that on purpose.


    When we walked through the door, the four of them were going out. The two parties met again. Invisible sparks of hatred were sent into the air one more time.


    Chuyi didnt bat an eyeattheir malicious faces. He pushed the one in his way aside and went upstairs.


    I was curious. Those people were as strong as Chuyi, or even stronger,sowhydidn''t theydare tofightagainst us? Anyway, it wasnt the right time to ask. I hurriedly walked behind Chuyi. When I walked past Ryuzawa Ichiro, he purposely nudged me. I lost bnce and almost tumbled.


    Before I couldlose my temper, Chuyi called, Jiulin, you cant bite the dog that has bitten you, right?


    Haha. Of course, I cant.


    Iughedand rolledmy eyes atRyuzawaIchiro. Themanblushedand balledhis fists together. Iignoredhim. Isteadied myself andcontinuedto walk up the stairs.


    Suddenly, Zen MasterBaimeilet out an Ouchbehind me. When I turned around, I saw him on the ground. One-armed Dragon and Yin Yang Tiger smirked nearby.


    Zen MasterBaimei, are you all right?


    I hurriedly pulled him up, then turnedand shoutedat the other four. Youjerks, do you want to fight?


    Hey, that old monk tripped by himself. Whyareyouming it on us?


    One-armed Dragon smiled coldlyand pattedZen MasterBaimeis face. Hey old man, youbetter watch your way. Imin agoodmood, so I dont want to talk abouthowyouve interfered with my business. Youre lucky, you know.


    They allughed haughtily before leaving. I couldnt stand them anymoreand drew outthe EmeiPiercer. Zen MasterBaimeiheld my armand said calmly, YoungBenefactor, if you get mad now, itwont bedifferent from admitting that theyve sessfully humiliated me.


    Damn it! I spat with a dark face.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwas right. The others had done that to provoke us. I knew that we shouldnt haveadispute with them now.However,I was so aggrievedto see themhumiliateZen MasterBaimei.


    After wewentinto our rooms, Chuyi looked at me. He said in a seriousvoice,If you dont feelfortable, read the Sacred Text of Daoism as many times asyou need. You shouldnt let them enrage you.


    Then, he left with his sword. I didnt go with him. As I knewthat theLongquan Vis people wouldnte to my room directly, Iidon the bed and studied theInvisible Needle.


    Since that fraudulent middle-aged man had used the needle before, ithadhis blood on it. I had todropmore of my bloodto force his blood out.


    Then, I tried to control the Invisible Needle to suspend it vertically with mythoughts. Indeed, the needle turned vertical!After that, I tried to make the needle perform some simple tasks. AfterI becamefamiliar with the tempo, I closed the door and used my thoughts to control the needle to move into the keyhole.


    Surprisingly, I found that while the Invisible Needle was moving inside the keyhole, I was able to see the inner structure of the keyhole. I controlled the needleand moved itfor a while. Then, with a short crackle, the lock was picked!


    Haha, Ivegot a great treasure this time!


    Iughed happily. I thought that I could work as a lock picker. Icould justpickup callsfrom people who needed helpand stay at home while opening locks byonly usingmythoughts


    Then, I tried tostabthe needle into the wall. At first, I focused on manipting the needle.Unfortunately,I failed a few times. When the Invisible Needle came near the wall, it just fell. I felt a little distressed.Onthest attempt, the needle pierced into the wall.


    I was surprised andsoongot it. I shouldnt focus too much on controlling the needle if I wanted to use it as a weapon. Rxing my mind while controlling it would give me a better result.


    I used this method to try a few more times. Indeed, controlling the needle with a rxed mindmadethe needle move faster and with more force. Shortly after, Iwas able tomake a lot of tiny holesin the wall between my room and Zen MasterBaimeis room.


    As the needle had stabbed into the wall many times at the same spot, Idmadea hole as big as a finger.


    I fetched a band-aid from my bag to cover the hole. But then, Ibecamecurious and wanted to peepintoZen MasterBaimeis room. Iwentand looked through the hole. Zen MasterBaimeiwas sleeping.


    Right when I was about to leave the hole, his window gently opened, without makinga sound.


    All the windows in this inn were old-fashioned. Whenever someone opened the door or the window, there would be many squeaking sounds. But this time, it movedwithout a sound. My heart rose to my throat.


    Ithad tobe a hotshot who could control his force well. Ryuzawa Ichiros image poppedintomy mind all of a sudden!


    Indeed, when the window finally opened, a masked man jumped in. Althoughthe distance from the window to the floor was less thantwo meters, the man gently rolled a few times in midair beforending with both hands on the ground. His movementswere agile and fast. It was the typical Japanese ninjutsu!


    I had never imagined that they would ambush us. I wanted to wake up Zen MasterBaimei, but then, I remembered my Invisible Needle. Ryuzawa Ichiro happened to be a nice target to practice on.


    Afternding, Ryuzawa Ichiro didnt take action immediately. He carefully observed Zen MasterBaimei. I took this chance and controlled the Invisible Needle with mythoughts.I just wanted to give him a lesson, so I made the needle aim at his ear.


    Unexpectedly, Zen MasterBaimeisuddenly shifted on his bed. Instinctively, Ryuzawa Ichiro turned to run away, which revealed his nape. The Invisible Needle immediately stabbed him right in his nape!


    I heard his bonebreakwith a crisp noise. Ryuzawa Ichiro felltothe ground. He tried to get up with the helpofboth of his hands as he wanted to turn and see what had ambushed him. But he couldnt do anything. In the end, he slumped on the ground like a mass of cotton.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwas awoken by Ryuzawa Ichiros move. He got up and saw the open window and Ryuzawa Ichiro on the ground.Themonk helplessly put his palms together in front of his chest. Merciful Buddha.


    I rushed to Zen MasterBaimeis room and turned Ryuzawa Ichiroaround. Hewas unconscious. I tried to pull him up. However, whenI pulled him, his neck tilted to one side.


    Whats wrong?


    I opened my eyes wideand triedto adjust his head a few more times. However, no matter what Idid, his head tilted to one side. It wasas though his neck was broken.


    Zen MasterBaimeicameand checkedRyuzawa Ichiros neck. Then, he gaspedin disbelief.How didthathappen?


    Ryuzawa Ichiros cervical spine was broken by the Invisible Needle!


    Zen MasterBaimeiand I couldnt figure out howthishappened. We became vignt as we were afraid that the others from the Longquan Vi woulde soon.


    Fortunately, Chuyi returned shortly after. Seeing Ryuzawa Ichiro on the bed, he frowned. Before I could exin, he came to check the man. Soon, herealizedthat Ryuzawa Ichiroscervicalspine was broken. His face turned dark. Hecoldlyredat me. Didnt I tell you not to attack them? What happened?


    Zen MasterBaimeiwouldnt act impulsively. Thatwaswhy Chuyiimmediatelyconcluded it was me. I knew the dispute between us and that the Longquan Vi would rocket after this. I carefully exined what happened to him.


    Chuyis face turned better. He checkedRyuzawaIchiros neck one more time. In the end, he shook his head. The cervical spine is connected to the major nerves of the human body. Hes paralyzed now. Itll be more than lucky if he canwake upagain.Otherwise, he has to live inavegetative condition for the rest of his life.


    I was dispirited. Chuyiforted me. Youre not to be med. You just wanted to save Zen MasterBaimei.


    After all,Ryuzawa Ichirowas to be med. He was justunluckythis time. Since ninjas often tookdangerousmissions, they all knew how to shrink their bones to make their bodies smaller, which would create this reflex in the long run.


    When Zen MasterBaimeishifted on his bed, Ryuzawa Ichiro wasso anxiousthat his bones shrank together at that short moment.Thecervical spine wasfragile. Under thepressing forcethathe had created with his reflex, when the Invisible Needle pierced into his neck, it was able to break his cervical spine.


    I felt a little better after listening to hisexnation. However, I was worried. What should we do? I have turned the Young Master of Longquan Vi into a disabled man. Im sure they will try their best to kill me. I think they will do that even beforethetrade conference is over!

 Chapter 635: River of Unmindfulness

    Chapter 635: River of Unmindfulness


    We shouldkeepvignt at alltimes.


    Chuyi didnt have the confidentcountenance he always had.He carefullysaid, If we cant beatthem, youllhave to listen to me and go before its toote.


    It seemedhe was afraid that I wouldpersistentlystay here to find the mermaidstears. He toldme toprevent such ascenario.


    I nodded. What should we do to this man?


    Chuyi thought, then directly threw Ryuzawa Ichiro through the window. No matter what, the Longquan Vis peoplewere stayingin the same inn. Theywouldhear thatmotion.


    Indeed, not long after the man was thrown out, the three elders appeared outside the inn. They hurriedly came and checked on Ryuzawa Ichiro. When they found that his neck was broken, they were all enraged. Theirred eyesgazedat us.


    Chuyi shrugged by the window. He even threw the others a provoking nce.


    The other three hated that they couldnt just rush in and hit us. They needed to get Ryuzawa Ichiro to the hospital now.


    After they left, Chuyi said, Theres no hospital in the Ghost Market. They have totakeRyuzawa Ichiro back to the mortal world. We need to take this time to find the mermaidstears.


    To extend our search range, we parted into two teams. Zen MasterBaimeiwouldcheckthe shops,whileChuyiwould takeme to the center of the market.


    It would be July the fifteenth ina couple of hours. Most of the buyers and sellers had arrived. The center of the ce, which was also the core of this trading conference, was packed as people were busily walking back and forth.


    It was beyond my expectation that wherever Chuyi passed by,both humans and ghosts madeway forhim. I felt like we were VIPs. Howare you doingthis?


    Because Ive registered an ordinal number,Chuyi answered calmly.Since there will be so many peopleingon July the fifteenth, theowner here has established ordinal numbers. We use the ordinal number to get priority.


    However, afterwed walkedaround the Ghost Market, we still didnt find the mermaidstears.


    Chuyi, whos theowner of the Ghost Market? Where is that person? I asked.


    There are a fewowners, notjustone. Thereare Judges from the Underworld, Monster Kings, and even Demon Kings. They wont show uppersonally, though. Normally, theyhavetheir subordinatescontrollingthe operation of the Ghost Market.


    Then, he pointed at a pce-like building behind the Ghost Market. They are right there, receiving the offerings. After the Ghost Market is over, they will return to their territories to continue their cultivation.


    I nodded. With those earth-shaking existences watching over the ce, who woulddare to cause trouble?


    While walking around the market, we saw many bizarre otherworldly items, but we couldnt find the mermaidstears.


    Ifeltdispirited. The mermaidstearswerea rare treasure. If this market didnt havethem, there was no shop on the street that did. Chuyi had the same thought.He pattedmy shoulder. If we cant find it here, we can release the news to the Circle whenwe go back. I think we willhearsomenewsabout it.


    I sighedbutdidnt want to give up now, so I asked Chuyi to find Zen MasterBaimei.Alongthe way, we saw ghosts rushing toward the vige. While they were running, they talked toone another. Theyre fighting! Hurry!Lets check it out!


    They dont want to live anymore?They dareto cause amess here!ined another ghost.


    I suddenly thought about Zen MasterBaimei. I turned to look at Chuyi.Healso had a stern face. He immediately dashed away.


    When we came near the inn, we saw many people standing at the vige entrance. Bothhumans and ghostswere crowding the area.Wethenheardthe sound ofpeople fighting.


    When we finallyarrived there, wesaw Zen MasterBaimeifighting with One-armed Dragon. Although they were equally powerful, Zen MasterBaimeiwas much older. He was slower than One-armed Dragon. I could see that hewould havethelower handsoon.


    Gritting my teeth, I wanted to help him. Chuyi pulled my armand saidcalmly,This is afight betweenthosetwo. If wejumpin,itwill be a fight between the two sides. It wont do any good toeitherside.


    I pulled myself together.I thought that ifthe brawl was loud enough, why hadntthe managere here to stop them? Didnt they say theyhada manager who took care of the security of the trade conference?


    I wanted to ask Chuyi this question. However, Zen MasterBaimeisuddenly spurted blood. He took a few steps backward andnded on his butt.


    One-armed Dragon gave him a disdainful smile and turned aroundbefore runningaway. Idontknow why, but he looked flustered when he left. He disappeared in just a blink.


    As there was nothing else to see, the onlookers leftfor themain market. Iwentand helped Zen MasterBaimeiget up. What happened, Zen Master?


    The mermaidstears. Hesgot the mermaidstears Zen MasterBaimeisaid intermittentlywhile spurting blood continuously.


    Chuyis eyes brightened when he heard the monkmention themermaidstears. He told me to stay and take care of Zen MasterBaimei. Then, he ranafter the other party.


    I looked at Zen MasterBaimei. My eyesturnedwatery. The monk had never liked to take action. And now, to help me get the mermaidstears, he hadfoughtwithsomeone.How could I repay this favor?


    Zen MasterBaimeiwiped the trickle of blood at the corner of his mouthand saidto meworriedly,Young Benefactor, Im all right. Hurry, go after Chuyi! Dont be confused. Chuyis not their equal opponent. Go help him! Hurry up!


    His voice was stern.Asthe Longquan Vis people werent here, I thoughtthatZen MasterBaimeiwouldnt be in any more danger. I directly turned around and raninChuyis direction.


    When I reachedthe viges entrance,theblurrypicturein front of me suddenlybecame clear.At the same time, the structure of the vigeandthe Ghost Market behind mebecameblurry.


    This feeling was likeentering a new areainagame. From the outside, the yer saw only one ce. But when he entered, hefoundanentirenew world.


    When I came to this ce earlier,I didn''t find itreally scaryperhaps due to the bustling Ghost Market.Butnow, it was strikingly different.


    Ifelt as if I wasona desertedbattlefieldfromancienttimes. There were a few rickety structures and copsed houses. Wisps of Yin energy arose from them.


    Alongside the roadwere a lot ofwhite skeletons.Many shadows slowly movedaround the empty area ahead of me. They all had iplete bodies and charred faces. They were all ghosts!


    While I was stunned, I heard footsteps. I thought someone had justarrived. I turned around and saw a headless body holding its head standing next to me.


    Thebody was dposing. The headinits hands looked purplish-red, and its eyes were wide open.I was so scared that I almost tripped myself. I hurriedly took a few steps backward.


    The corpse followed meand askedwith rage,Did you see my head?


    I was afraid that thing could bewitch me. I clenched my jawand triedto calm down. Then, I pretendedthat I didnt hear anything andcontinuedto moveaway. The corpse asked me a few more times. I didnt answer. In the end, the corpse left.


    After hewasgone, I sighed then rushed away. However, I had run for a long time, but Ididnt seeany living human beings. I became worried.


    Talking about speed, Chuyi couldnt be much faster than me. He had left around ten seconds before I did. As I was in this deserted, empty ce, I should be able to see him somewhere.


    Looking at the ghosts with nk or emotionless faces everywhere, I became more anxious. I thought I shouldnt move further. Iworea Yang Concealing Talismanandapproached a ghost. I asked,Where are youheadedto?


    The ghost stiffly lifted his head to look at me. He looked at me with adoubtful and cautious expression; It seemedhe didnt want to answer me. I tried to make myself sound evilerand askedhim one more time.


    This time, the ghost shiveredandansweredstiffly, The River of Unmindfulness!

 Chapter 636: Finding the Mermaid’s Tears

    Chapter 636: Finding the Mermaid¡¯s Tears


    My mind went nk.I turned around andran away at my fastest speed.


    In many legends, Meng Polivedby the River of Unmindfulness. Everyghost that camehere had to drink her soup to forget everythingoftheir previouslife before reincarnating again.It was no wondertheghosts here lookedunwilling. They wanted tokeepthe memoriesof their previous lives!


    I was certain that I couldntget closeto the River of Unmindfulness. If I drank Meng Pos soup,my lifewould end here.


    Still, no matter how hard I tried to run, I only saw new surroundings. I couldnt find the way back to the vige.


    Fengdu was the border between the two worlds. There were many forbiddennds, and if onegottrapped,they coulddie here.


    Walking aimlessly like this wasnt the right solution. I looked at the vague area ahead of me.Suddenly, I remembered the Invisible Needle.It was an otherworldly item and it could fly fast. Perhaps it could show me the way!


    Even if I couldnt get outimmediately, I would at least save my strength. I took out the Invisible Needle and used mythoughtsto control it. The needle flewaway quickly.


    The Ghost Marketdidnt coverarge area.Furthermore, Chuyi and the man from the Longquan Vi had strong Yang energy, whichmadethem prominent targets to find. Thatwaswhy I focused on finding the two of them.


    As the Invisible Needle was moving faster and faster, more and moreimages shed in my head. Soon, I felta wisp ofYang energy from acertainimage. I focused on that image and saw Chuyi standing before the three elders of the Longquan Vi.


    The ce where they were standing was different from where I was.There were nowanderingghosts around. However,pared to the wastnd here, it looked even more frightening.


    Before I could do anything, One-armed Dragon had taken actionand aimedat Chuyi.He only had one arm, but every time he moved, a strong wind rose with him. Chuyi was holding his eight-faceted Han swordandhadthe advantageof having higher reach. He could rtively have an equal fight against One-armed Dragon.


    Rightatthis moment, Yi Zhangqing fetched some hidden weapons from her waistand dartedthem at Chuyi.


    Chuyi reacted fast. He wielded his sword and wiped Yi Zhangqings hidden weapons away.However,thisgave One-armed Dragon the chance to hit Chuyisback.


    Chuyi halted. He withdrew his sword and shed One-arm Dragons arm. Butthetter seemed to beimmune to pain. Heraisedhis bleeding arm and grabbed the long sword.


    As I knew the situation wasnt good, I used the Invisible Needle tofind my waytoward Chuyi.


    At thismoment, Yin-Yang Tiger suddenly moved after a long time of standing still. Both of his hands curved like a pair of wsthat aimedat Chuyis wound on his back. Yi Zhangqing took the chance to throw more hidden weapons. Chuyi wanted to duck, but his body couldnt move.


    Youbastards!The three of you areattacking oneperson! I cursed, then used the Invisible Needle to stop the hidden weapons. At the same time, I threw the Emei Piercer at Yin-Yang Tiger.


    He didnt know what I had darted at him, so he had to give up on attacking Chuyi. Chuyi seized the time and read a short spell. The eight-faceted Han sword glowed magnificently. It cut one of One-armed Dragons fingers. The man screamed and backed off.


    I stormed forwardand stoodnear Chuyi. Are you okay?


    Why are you here? Chuyi said with a cold face. Were trapped. They dont have the mermaidstears. That Zen MasterBaimeiwas fake.


    Now I understood while the ghostshadne to intervene when One-armed Dragon and Zen MasterBaimeiwere fighting. Sincethey were fromthe sameside, the ghosts must have thought that theywere havingan internal dispute!


    It wasnt that hard to figure out. But as we wereblinded bythe mermaids tears,we hadnt thought the matter through.


    To give Chuyi more time toprepare, I asked theenemy,What happened to Zen Master Baimei?


    Before the Longquan Vis people answered me, I heard Zen MasterBaimeis merciful voiceing from all directions. YoungBenefactor, dont worry. Im all right.


    As his voice grew louder and clearer, beams of golden light filled the ce.Then,Zen MasterBaimeiappeared as though he had just descended from the sky.


    After hended, he put the m beads backinhis pocket. The golden light shed,thepletelydisappeared.


    Zen Master, where have you been?


    They tricked me intoing here earlier. I didnt know the situation, so I was trapped. I didnt expect to see thetwo of you here.


    I felt awkward.Youre too sincere, Zen Master. Couldnt you just say that you came here to help us?


    Nomatter what,now thatZen MasterBaimeiwas here, ourstrengthswereequal. Although I was weaker than them, with theInvisible Needle, I wouldnt be at adisadvantage.


    One-armed Dragons team grimaced. Their smirk was gone. Theyd decided to attack us in the market anddivide usas they were afraid that theywouldnt be able togivea nice report to theirsuperiors otherwise.


    However,the three of us had found each other by chance.Now thatthey had climbed on the tigers back, theyhad tofigure out how to get down!


    Chuyi had restedenough. He askedcoldly, Do we still need to fight?


    The people from the Longquan Vimadeugly faces. However, they didnt answer him. After exchanging looks, they flew backward.


    What did they mean? I asked.


    Im lucky that you two came. Otherwise, Icouldnteven dare to imaghe consequences, said Chuyi.


    This area wasnt the Ghost Market, so the owners didntbother to protectthend here. The people from the Longquan Vi had seized this chance to carry out their dark deeds. They wanted to finish us discreetly.


    However, as the three of us werereunited,fightingcould create a bigmotion thatwould requirethe big boss of the market tostep in.If that happened,let alone taking revenge,the people from Longquan Vimight not even be able toleave Fengdu. They understood this well. Thatwaswhy they had decided to leave.


    That was close, Iblurted out.


    I was worried, though. As they had used the mermaids tears to lure us in, they knew why wehadeto the Ghost Market.Ifthemermaids tearsweresold at this trade conference, they could buythembefore us. No matter what, they were equallyrich!


    Chuyi understood this. He immediately took us throughyers of illusions to return to the center of the trade conference.


    The market was so crowded. Stalls had packed the original market, and evenmore stalls were on the streets outside.


    We walked around but still couldnt findthe mermaidstears. Suddenly, threeflowsof white light crossed the sky.The people and ghosts cheered happily. Even Chuyi looked yearning when he saw the light.


    I checked the time. It was right at midnight. Finally, July the15thhade! It seemedthatthe white lightssignaled thatthe Markets owners hade to show this years treasure. Indeed,whenthe threebeamsof white light vanished, three items appeared in midair.


    On the left was a set of clothes that looked as thin as cicada wings. A few transparent beads floated in themiddle. On the right was a special mask, which had a fire phoenix moving on it. It looked magnificent to the eyes.


    I didnt know what those treasures could be used for,so I turned to ask Chuyi. When I turned to him, I saw that heand Zen MasterBaimeilookeddumbstruck. They were gazing atthe transparent beads.


    I pushed him and asked, Whats wrong?


    Jiulin, you are lucky. Chuyi couldnt hide his joy. Hisvoiceshivered. Those arethe mermaids tears, the thing you want to find!

 Chapter 637: The Three Great Divine Items

    Chapter 637: The Three Great Divine Items


    What?


    I was stunnedand turned aroundto look. After a while, I recognized that the mermaidstearswerpressed into the form of a bead by some kind of force. Whenthey were used, theywould naturally turn back intotheirliquid form.


    I couldnt wait to have them. I turned to Chuyiinexcitement.Howcanwe get the treasure?


    They arent meant to be sold. They are the items they use to show offatthe Ghost Market. Butsometimes, theywillgive them away to the people whohavecontributed a lot to the market orhaveaveryactive team.Dont worry. Except for us and the Longquan Vi, thereare noother people forming teams in thisyear''s tradeconference. Thats why onlyusand the Longquan Viwillbe eligible to receive the rewards.


    I felt better. Even if I got the mermaids tears right now, One-Armed Dragon and his friends wouldnt leave me alone. I shouldnt worryabout themfor the time being.


    Then, Chuyi enthusiastically introduced the other two treasures to me. The set of clothes on the left was said to belong to Empress Wu Zetian of the Tang Dynasty,whilethe mask on the right used to be worn by a great Daoist Priest in the Han Dynasty. That masks attack power was shocking. Chuyi said that if the user could connect to the masks spirit, they could even release the fire phoenix. It worked the same wayasmy Invisible Needle.


    Although they were great treasures, my mindwasupied by the mermaidstears. I didnt show interestin the other items.


    We finallyeasedour worries as wed found the mermaidstears.Weheaded backto the inn to rest. When we reached the inn, a team of dark shadows surrounded us.


    Subconsciously, I drew outthe Emei Piercerand wasready to defend myself. Zen MasterBaimeiand Chuyi held a hand in front of me to stop me. Chuyi smiledand talkedto the leader of the shadows in anguage I didnt understand.


    Zen MasterBaimeitook the chance to mutter his exnation to me. These shadows are the henchmen of the markets owners. They are responsible for the Ghost Markets security.


    I frownedand hada feeling that they didnte in peace.


    Indeed, after talking to the dark shadow, Chuyigrimaced. He said carefully, Those big bosses know that wegot in afight with the people from the Longquan Vi. They want to summon us to talk!


    ThenSincethe ghost soldiers were here, I shot Chuyi a lookandasked him to run away.


    He shook his headanddirectly told me, You dont need to think about running away. If thesepowerful bosses that run the Ghost Market were to join hands, eventhe King of Hell would beafraid of them!


    Zen MasterBaimeiwanted to say somethingwhensuddenly, everything turned ck in front of us. The wind hissed by our ears. I felt my body floating up.


    Soon, the light came back and Inded. I opened my eyes and found Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimeinear me. One-Armed Dragon and the other two were standing on the other side.It seemed the ghost soldiers had worked efficiently. I smacked my tonguein admiration.


    Then, I pulled myself together and observed the ce. We were inside a hallthatwas lit up with rows of flickering blue candle lights. Westood on one end of the hall while the Longquan Vis teamstood on the other end.


    All of a sudden, we felta powerful presence.It wasthe bossesandowners of the Ghost Market. Their names were well-known everywhere. They were theMonster King, the Judge of Hell, and the Demon KingSix rectangle boxes were ced on an altar in front of them.


    Iwondered whatwasinside those boxes. From the number of boxes, I guessed they were for us.Are they going to ask us to drink some poison? Isthisour execution?


    Soon, Irejectedthis idea. If they wanted to kill us, they didnt need toput on this show.


    I turned to Chuyi. He looked dumbstruckand shookhis head.


    Acharming female voice arose. We shall start now. Each of youwill choosea box.Weregoing toya game with you. Haha.


    No one made a move after the woman said thatas we didnt know what her n was. Even One-armed Dragon, who was normally haughty,didnt move an inch. Anyway, we were nothing in front of the three bosses of the Ghost Market.


    The woman appeared clearer in our vision. She waswearing a redwedding dress with a phoenix headwear. She had a small mouth. When she spoke, her red lips parted seducingly.Unfortunately, her face was chalk-white. It looked as thoughshe had a thinyer of whitepowderon her skin, whichreduced her beauty.


    While I was assessing her, she also checked us. Her voicegrewcolder. You have vited the rules of our Ghost Market. ordingly, all of you should be executed and your souls sent to Hell. But as its the first time youvevited the rules, Im going to give you a chance to survive!


    I exhaled. Chuyi shook his headand whispered,Dont believe her.


    Indeed, the womansmiledcunningly as she exined her game to us.


    Each of those six boxes had a famous otherworldly item. They wanted each of us to choose one. Then,they would randomly match us for a battle.


    During thebattle, we could only use the otherworldly item we had chosen. Otherwise, we would lose. There was no regted fighting mode or fixed arena. We could choose any ce in the Fengdu area to fight.


    When the woman finished her introduction, the shadows sitting next to her allughed at once.


    Then, sheraisedone hand. Immediately, right in the middle of the hall, a screen made of mes was conjured.


    I was stunnedand watchedthe me screen divideinto countless smaller screens.Thosescreens were monitors positionedatevery corner of Fengdu!


    Perhaps she just wanted toopen our eyes,soshe picked a small screen and zoomed into it. Immediately, we saw ghosts and humans movingon thescreen. We even heard them bargaining.


    Then, the woman turned the screen back into countless smaller cubes. She saidhumorously, When yougoback, spend timestudyingyouritem. You shouldnt think about running away. Every move of yours is watched!


    When she said that, I was almost petrified. I gaveup all ideas of fleeing.


    Zen MasterBaimeiand Chuyi looked better than meastheyhad a betterstate of mind than I did. After a moment ofcontemtion, theymovedforward and picked a box.The Longquan Vis people rushed toward the altarand sawthat the other two had already chosen their boxes.


    The ratio is the same. You dont needto freakingrush! I cursed under my breath. I was thest o pick abox.


    Then,the womanconjured six pieces of paperthatfloated in front of us. We chose one each. In the end, we gotamatching result. Chuyi vs Yi Zhangqing; Zen MasterBaimeivs Yi Yang Tiger; and I would fight against the strongest among them, One-Armed Dragon


    To ensurefairnessinthe game, before your match starts, you will not knowtheotherworldly item your opponent has chosen.Goback and prepare. The first match will begin at 8:00 AM tomorrow!


    After the women said that, the shadows disappeared before we couldspeak. Then, the ghost soldiers took us back to our inn.


    At the moment I went upstairs, One-Armed Dragon shot me a cold nceand sneered. I hope youre nottoo weak.


    Dont worry.Youll have a chance to see that, I barked back. However, I was anxious. One-Armed Dragon was the strongestofthe three elders, while I was the weakest in our team.


    However, as it wasaruleinthe game that if Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimeidefeated their opponents, and One-Armed Dragon defeated me, theoverallresult wouldnt be affected.

 Chapter 638: Prince Ma’s Whip vs Ghost Cutter

    Chapter 638: Prince Ma¡¯s Whip vs Ghost Cutter


    As soon as weentered theroom, Chuyi opened his box. Lying inside the box was a heavy bronze whip. The bronze whip was dull, and itshandle was coveredingray mold. To me, itlooked like a brokenitem.


    I weighed it in my hand and found it was heavier than the eight-faceted Han sword, which would affect Chuyis movements. I was worried. Do you know whatthis is?


    Chuyi thoughtfor a moment,then answered, Its Prince Mas whip.ording to thelegend, Prince Ma was a Daoist ghost catcher. He had a fierce appearance with a yellow face and red hair. Moreover, he had three eyes. Histhird eye could see ghosts and monsters.Wheneverhe foundthem, he would use this bronze whip to kill them. This weapon is most feared by ghosts and monsters.


    I knew about Prince Ma. Ifthiswas his weapon, of course, it wasnt an ordinary weapon. Moreover, Chuyi was familiar with swords. It shouldnt be a problem for him to use this whip.


    Then, Zen MasterBaimeiopened his box. Surprisingly, it was a chain of redsandalwoodm beads. Each bead was carved with many texts. Although I didnt understand Sanskrit, I felt happy knowing thatthey wereBuddhist m beads. Zen MasterBaimeiwas lucky because it was his favorite weapon.


    Chuyi also felt better. Zen MasterBaimei, what are the words on these m beads?


    I dont understand them, either. Zen MasterBaimeishook his head. He didnt looktooexcited,though. Anyway, as he wasnt apetitive person and didnt show much of his emotions, Iwasnt too worried.


    They had both chosenideal weapons for themselves. I felt more confidentanddirectlyopenedmy box. Inside the box, I saw a sparklingsilverring.


    The ring looked like an engagement ring, but instead of a diamond, it had a gem as red as agate. Although the gem had a shiny surface, countless red capiry vessels slightly throbbedinside.


    At first, I thought it wasanawesome treasure. But when I put it on my finger, I didnt feel anything. I handed the ring to Chuyi and asked, Do you know whatthis thingis?


    Chuyi studied the ring for a while then passed it to Zen MasterBaimei. Theybothshook their heads.


    Pocket-sized otherworldly items often required using blood to activate them. I bit my finger and dripped some drops of blood on it. I even read some simple spells to send my spiritual power into it.


    However, after a long moment, the ringdidntreact.


    Damn it! I couldnt help butcurse. There were only two possibilities when the blood couldnt seep into the item. One, there was an intimidating spirit dwelling in that ring. Thatwaswhy it resisted the external spiritual force. And two, thisfreakingring wasnt an otherworldly item!


    This ring didnt have anything special about it at all. Even Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimei,two people withgreat brains, wereat a loss. So, it was probably something trashy. I was puzzled and worried. I madea faceand said,What should I do now?


    Dont worry. The Demon King said that before the battle, they will tell us the names of these items, right? Chuyi said tofortme.


    I rubbed my faceand triedto look okay.All right, theresalways away. Perhaps what One-Armed Dragon got is even trashier than this ring!


    Tomorrow morningwould bethe day of battle between Chuyi and Yi Zhangqing. We went to bed early. Soon, I heard Chuyiperformingbreathingexercises. I became tense again.


    That Demon King hadexinedeverythingbutthe punishment to the losers. It made me even more worried.I had a feeling that the losers woulddie.After thinking about this, I clenched my fistsandencouragedmyself. I wouldnt hold my team back!


    I drifted into sleep. When I woke up, it was already 8:00 AM. While I was thinking about how they would tell us the time of the battles, I heard the crowdcheerloudly from the center of the Ghost Market.


    I went to the window to see. The area where the three precious treasures had appeared yesterdayhadchanged. There was a screen that projected the line, Prince Mas WhipvsGhost Cutter Underneath was the description written in Ghostnguage.


    At first, we thought that the Demon King wouldprovideanintroduction about the otherworldly items and how to use them. Unexpectedly, besides the names,there was no other information.


    Things arent going to be easy I couldnt hold back thisment.


    Yi Zhangqing was anassassin equippedwith the mighty GhostCutter.Abloody fight between her and Chuyiwas guaranteed.


    The Ghost Cutter is a divine weapon that was used to kill ghosts during the Heian period in Japan. Its first owner was a samurai named Watanabe! He used this cutter tochopoff Ibaraki Doujis arm and scared away the ghosts during the Night Parade. Afterward, the cutter got the name Ghost Cutter. Im afraid it has absorbed a lot of ghost energy, saidChuyi with a stern face. He told me and Zen MasterBaimeito wait for him in the inn. He needed to find a ce tocleansePrince Mas Whip.


    I knew I couldnt find any useful information about the ring. Thatwaswhy Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimeihad towin. As the match had started, I was afraid that Chuyi would encounter danger if he went out alone. I suggestedgoingwith him sothatwe could take care of each other.


    Zen MasterBaimei would be rtively safein this inn. Chuyi thought about it and agreed with me.


    Afterwe leftthe inn, I found that both the humans and ghoststhat had joinedthis trade conference were watching the screen at the Ghost Market. The screen was split into two smaller screens. One was projecting me and Chuyi, while the other was showing Yi Zhangqingin a conversationwith Yin-Yang Tiger.


    Chuyi, no matter what you or Yi Zhangqing do,the otherwill know it. Howwillyou n your battle? I looked at the screens, feeling puzzled.


    Chuyi was surprised, but he shook his head. No one is going tomake such a low-level mistake. Im suretheyll find a way.


    Then, Chuyi took me out of the vige. We wentto the ce I hadalmost gone to, the River of Unmindfulness.


    Heexined, In front of us is the River of Unmindfulness. Its the darkest river intheworld. The riverispacked with ghosts who couldnt reincarnate. Thats why the Yin energy there is always sky-reaching. I want to use the Yin-Yang converting principle. Byusing the Yin energy from the river, I canwash the impurities on the bronze whip.


    I had listened to the story of the River of Unmindfulness and the Bridge of Helplessness since I was a little boy. I was really curious about this mysterious ce. Now that I wasapanying Chuyi, I wasnt really scared.


    After walking for half an hour, we sawthatthetreesonly hadbare trunks. Most of themwere broken in half. The ground had a thickyer of yellow-brown leaves. It was a sad scene to look at.


    I didnt know why, but when we were about to enter the woods, my heart throbbed. Subconsciously, I took a step back.


    Chuyi pulled my armand mademestandbehind him. In a low voice, he said,Watch out.


    I nodded and drew the Emei Piercer from my waist. Chuyicarriedthe Han sword on his back and walkedinto the woodswith the bronze whip.


    After a few steps, Ismelled something pungent; it wasdposing flesh. At the same time, I heard some cracklinginthesequiet woods.


    Some animal noises arose, just like the squeaking from rats. Buthow could rats live in a ce like this?

 Chapter 639: Murderous Bats

    Chapter 639: Murderous Bats


    Speed up. We need to get out of the woods fast.


    After Chuyisaid that,we elerated. The gross smell of dposing flesh became heavier. The rat-squeaking noise hadalsogrown louder.


    Suddenly, some drops of liquidfellon my head. I thought it was raining, so I lifted my head to see. I then saw a body hanging on the tree. It was dripping blood.


    Countless fatcreatures that looked like bats were nibbling on that body. The liquid drops that fell on me were fromthebites on the body.


    I couldnt helpbutcrouch and retch. Chuyiextendedhis hand as he wanted to cover my mouth. However, it was toote.


    At the moment I made the first sound, the bats all turned to look at us. As soon as they saw us, their eyes turned red. They opened theirmouthsand revealedpieces of blood-dripping flesh on their teeth.


    Run! Chuyi shouted.


    I didnt hesitateand dashedaway.Awind tearing noise arose behind us. I knew they were flying after us. I pulled myself together and turned around to see. They got Chuyi. Hewas attacking the bats withbothweapons in his hands.


    The bats were as big as chickens. If they bita person, they could pull out arge chunk of flesh. Moreover,because they livedin this ce, they must have some toxins. Thatwaswhy Chuyi looked troubled. Soon, they had bitten a few holesinhis clothes.


    I slowed downand reachedhim with the Emei Piercer. Every timeIextendedit, pungent bloodpoured down.


    Although thebats were fierce, therewerent many of them.Chuyi and Itriedour best to kill them.We got most of them. A few bats flew back to the treesand lookedat us in fright.


    Holymoly! I looked at Chuyi, whoseclothes nowlookedlike rags.


    Chuyi nodded and exined, Those bats have feasted on carcasses fora long time. Living in this ce, it wouldnt be strangeif they hadn''tmutated.


    He suddenly stoppedand lookedat me with doubt. Following his eyes, I saw that I wasnt hurt a bit. Therewereno tears on my clothes, either.


    Eh?I was dumbstruck for a moment. I was closer to the bats than Chuyi was, but they didnt attack me. What happened?


    Chuyi looked at me and thought for a moment. Then, he suddenlysaid, Not good!


    At thismoment, the bats hiding in the trees plungedforward, sneaking onChuyi from behind.


    I instinctively controlled the Invisible Needle to stop one of them. Chuyi sawmy expressionandknew he was in danger. However,he couldnt turn aroundintime.A fewbatsbit him. Chuyi screamedanddirectlyturnedhis back to me. I immediately stabbed withmyneedle and killedthe bats.


    Are you okay? I asked worriedly.


    Chuyi waved his hand. Im okay. We should run to the River of Unmindfulness.


    For the remainder of our time spent running,nothingunexpected happened. Inthe distance, I saw the sky-reaching Yin energying from the river.


    When we arrived, I saw that the river had red water, which made it look like a blood river. Suddenly, a lot of bubblesarose.Feeling curious, Iwent to check andfounda beautiful girl waving at me. As I was about to walk to her,I felt a nudge.


    I told you to wait outside. Look carefully,nagged Chuyi. Then, hepinched a little moldfromhis bronze whip and smeared it on my temple.He pointed at the River of Unmindfulnessand said,Look who is calling you.


    I turned and looked in that direction one more time. It was a girl with an open stomach.Herintestineswerefloating next to her. She was waving at me.SinceI didntgo to her, she shot Chuyi a fierce look. Unwillingly, she sank back into the water.


    The ghosts in this cecantreincarnate. Thats why they want to pullpeopleinto the river to rece them.All thosewhoe to this ce have to cover their ears and eyes and keep running forward. Yet,you are boldenough to deliveryourself in their hands!


    While Chuyi was talking, he tied the eight-faceted Han sword with the bronze whip. Then, he threw them into the river.The weapons immediatelysizzled. I gathered my courage and went to the river bank to see.Many ghosts were screaming and running away.


    After around ten minutes, Chuyi read a spell to summon the eight-faceted Han sword.I nowunderstood why he had tiedthem together. He didnt know how to control the bronze whip yet.


    After beingwashed by the river water, the mold on the whip was gone. It was sparkling as if itwas freshly made. I reached out to untie the rope. Unexpectedly, the rope had be as tough as iron.


    Dont mind that.Once it getsout of the water, the Yin energythat has seepedin the rope will disperse into the air. Then, the rope willturn intoa powder.


    Thats amazing! I gave him a thumbs-up. Chuyi smiled at me, but it was a wry smile. I saw beads of sweat on his forehead.


    Are you okay? What happened?


    I might have used a lot of Yang energyatthe River of Unmindfulness. I just need to rest.Ill bealright.


    Chuyi smiled and urged me to walk. When we walked through the woods, I was surprisedto see thatall thebats corpseswere gone. Even the blood on the ground wasnowhere to be seen!


    Do you know what happened?


    Chuyis face turned serious. Then, hefellononeknee.


    Chuyi, why didnt you tell me


    I confirmedthere was something wrong with him. I tore his shirt.Hisback had turned ck, and it looked horrible.The bat bites had turned purplish-red, ad blood oozed from them.


    I had asked himearlier,but he said he was all rightas hedidnt want me to be worried.I was fooled.


    Jiulin, I thought it was just somemon corpse toxin. But now... itappears thatYi Zhangqingwas behindthose bats. It seems shecanuse the Ghost Cutter already,Chuyi said intermittently.


    I got it now.It was no wonder those bats didnt attack me!


    Yi ZhangqingdesignatedChuyi as their only target.Wehadnt expectedher to act that quickly.However, we could confirm one thing:She didnt know that I was with Chuyi. Otherwise, I might havewound upeven worse thanhim.


    Iput him onmy back and ran. At first, Chuyi could still give me direction. However, after a while, helost consciousness. I had to use the Invisible Needle to sense the way out. Unexpectedly, even though the Invisible Needle pointed out that we just needed to move straightto reachthe vige where the trade conference was held, no matter how hard I tried, I couldnt get there.


    I recognized that I wasnt lost. Instead,I was in Yi Zhangqingsillusion. Fortunately, I had always kept theIllusoryMind Bell with me. I read the spell and jingled it. Eventually, I reached the vige.


    The market in the center was stillfull ofghostsand people. Most of the participants were gazing at the air, pointing and discussingthe events. I lifted my head to see. The ming screen was there, but it was nk to us. Outside the crowd, One-Armed Dragon and Yin-Yang Tiger were standing with a puzzled face.It seemed thatafter the battle had started, both parties couldnt see what was projected on the screen.


    Chuyi was hurt, soI knew I shouldnt linger. I carried him directly to Zen MasterBaimeis room. When we got there, Zen MasterBaimeiwas studying his chain of m beads. His facepaled when he saw us. Before he started to talk, he helped me put Chuyi on the bed.


    Then, he quickly took out a set of knives and usedacandle me to disinfect a knife. He directly cut into Chuyis wound. Chuyi was awakened by the pain. Heshouted andgrabbed me with one hand while his other hand gripped thebedsheettightly. Zen MasterBaimeigritted his teethand continuedcutting.


    Theres somethingin your back. We have to take it out now. Put up with it for a while, Chuyi!Zen MasterBaimeisaidwith a frown as he continued to workon Chuyis back. Every time he cut Chuyis back, theman screamed and wiggled. His handsome face turned red. Sweat coveredhis forehead, and his eyes bulged. Hecouldntstopgroaning.

 Chapter 640: Chuyi is Severely Wounded

    Chapter 640: Chuyi is Severely Wounded


    I couldnt countthe number ofcuts Zen MasterBaimeimadebefore he finally stopped. I felt my eyes wateryas I countedthirteen jujube-sized ironcaltropstaken out of Chuyis flesh!


    Chuyis back didnt have a square inch of intact skin.It could be worse, though.At least,thecaltropscouldnt release any more toxins after they were taken out.


    Zen MasterBaimeitook out some ointment from Chuyis bag and applied it on his back. Most of the ointments Chuyi created weremultipurpose. At the moment of contact, Chuyi whimpered. His back fumed white smoke. I instinctively wanted to wipe the ointment away. Zen MasterBaimeipushed me awayand hissed, Dont disturb me if you know nothing!


    I was baffled. I had known him for a long time, and it was the first time hed talked to me like that. Then, he continued to smear the ointment all over Chuyis back, which made the man fall unconscious,then wakeupfromthe pain.


    I couldnt stand itand leftthe room. If it werent for me, Chuyiwouldnt haveneeded toe here. He wouldnt haveto endure such pain! At this moment, Iknew I had to bestronger. The feeling was stronger thanever before.I finally recognized how weak I was.Ipledgedto be as strong as the Demon King. I would never let anyone who cared about me get hurt, even if I had to die!


    When Ireturnedto the room, Zen MasterBaimeihad finished applying the ointment. Chuyi was sleeping.


    I should have gone with you guys. Zen MasterBaimeimed himself.


    I thought I could stay to provide you withinformation.Butas soon as you two left, I couldnt see the imageson thescreen anymore. I went downstairs to ask the people what they saw,butthey couldnt see me.I couldnt hear them,either!


    He had confirmed my guess. The Ghost Markets bosses had used their supernatural powers toistethesixof us. Anyway, everything was somehow rtive. If we couldnt get useful information, of course, Yi Zhangqing couldnt,either.


    Although the Ghost Cutter was fierce, it had a big w. Its range was limited, which wasdifferent from the Invisible Needle that could go everywhere. Itmeant that Yi Zhangqingwasntfar from usback then. It was just thatwe hadnt been able to see her.


    Chuyi woke up in the afternoon. Although he was free from the toxin, the wounds on his back werestill there. He looked pale.When he woke up, the first thing he didwas ask if I had heard any informationabout Yi Zhangqing.


    Yin-YangTiger and One-Armed Dragonhave left. It seems Yi Zhangqing has returned to the vige, Zen Master Baimei said with a dark face.


    He stood by the window andhad put onaface ever since he knew Chuyiwasseverelyinjured. Zen MasterBaimeiand Chuyi were like me and Li Mazi. They had beenthroughmany deadly situations. I understoodhow he felt.


    Chuyi closed his eyes for a few minutes. When he opened his eyes again, he said, Ivegot a solution.I cant engage in a fight with her, though. We have to find a chance to catch her. Otherwise, Ill lose this match.


    Chuyi turned to Zen MasterBaimei and gavehim a wry smile. Old monk, please help me run some errands.


    Zen MasterBaimeinodded and left the inn. A momentter, Chuyi said that he was hungry.While carryingthe bronze whip, hestarted to headdownstairs to eat something.


    Why dont you bring the Han sword? You never fight without it.


    No need.Jiulin, because of you, I wont lose.


    Ismiled at him and saidnothing.


    We went to the same private roomfor atelunch. Theinnkeeperbrought us the samedishes. I didnt know why, but as soon as the food was served, Chuyi started to wolf down his food while urging me to hurry.


    Around two minutester, he had finished his bowlwhileI had just moved my chopsticks. Hiscell phonesuddenly vibrated. He dropped his chopsticksand pattedme. Stop eating.


    Then, he pointed behind his back. I got it now.Zen MasterBaimeihad gone out to watch out for us. I ced my chopsticks on the table and drew out the Emei Piercer. Ivigntlylookedat the window. Soon, a wisp of imperceptible Yin energy moved through the windowand flewtoward thedisheson our table.


    I smiled at Chuyi sitting opposite meand raisedmy hand. Right after that, chicken drums, braised pork, and stir-fried kidney flew toward us one after another. Although I was prepared, I was still surprised. There was a lot offoodon our table, andit wassmaller than the bats we had encountered before,whichI couldnt avoidatall.


    Fortunately, Chuyi showed his magnificent speed one more time. He spun the bronze whipand createda tight circle in front of us, which shielded us from thefood.


    Instantly, the walls and ceilingof the private dining room got all kinds of meat stuck on them. A small cube of braised porknded on my face.AsI knew that Chuyi had smashed away the Yin energy from the Ghost Cutter, I calmly extended my tongue and rolled the meat into my mouth


    The Ghost Cuttercantpare toyour Invisible Needle. Yi Zhangqingcanonly control it barely.Sinceher previous ambushwasunsessful, Im sure shes received a bacsh.


    Chuyipaused, thensneered. Weveexperiencedtwo waves of her attacks. It should be my turn now.


    I was a little bewildered. Until now, Chuyididnt know much about the bronze whip. He couldnt control it yet. Where did his confidencee from?


    Without giving me time to ask, Chuyis phone vibrated again. He checked it, then said coldly, Zen MasterBaimeihas seen Yi Zhangqingleavingthe vige. Im sure she knowsthatwere looking for her. ShellgotoYin-YangTiger and One-Armed Dragon for help. Zen MasterBaimeiis after them. We should hurry!


    Chuyi pulled me. Together, we left the vige.We were ina new world, butI wasnt worriedabout gettinglost this time. Just like the tacit understanding between me and Li Mazi,Chuyiand Zen MasterBaimei alsohadamutual understanding that other people couldnt understand.


    Indeed, not long after we had entered this strange space, Yi Zhangqing appeared in our vision. She was limping.


    Chuyi sneered. It seemsthebacshwasmore serious than I thought.


    Yi Zhangqing was startled. She turned andlooked atChuyi. Haha. Iveunderestimated you! Youwere able togeton your feetin such a short time. But Im sure your back is hurtinglike hell, right?


    She was trying to provoke him. After talking, shughed crazily.


    My face turned sullen. My Invisible Needle was ready. Chuyi stopped meand loweredhis voice. Just stand and watch the fun.


    You see, this ce isnt bad.Why dontyou tworestforever? Yi Zhangqing barked. Then, she threw some hidden weaponsatus.


    Id expected herto throwthe hidden weapons. I moved aside, butChuyi didnt move. Hedidnt want to move, to be exact. Yi Zhangqings hidden weapon hit his stomach. Chuyi halted for a moment, but he continued to moveforward.


    Yi Zhangqing hesitated for a moment. Then, shethrewmore hidden weapons towards him. Chuyi didntdodge even thoughhed lost a lot of blood.


    Aftergetting hit, he shook a few times. He almost tumbled. I rushed to support him. He pushed me aside and nodded at me. Persistently, he walked toward Yi Zhangqing.


    Yourecourtingdeath!


    Yi Zhangqing thought that Chuyihad done thatto insult her. She was mad. Holding the Ghost Cutter, she sat down cross-legged. It seemed she wasgoing for the kill!

 Chapter 641: Killing Yi Zhangqing

    Chapter 641: Killing Yi Zhangqing


    Although Chuyi had told me to do nothing and just watch the fun, I couldnt stand it. Holding the Invisible Needle,I aimed itat Yi Zhangqingandscreamed, If you move, you will end like Ryuzawa Ichiro!


    As soon as I said that, One-Armed Dragons voice arose.Qing, dont worry. Do what you want. I want to see who can threaten you!


    He walked toward us. His face was fierce.Its a one-on-one match. Sinceyouvejoined thepetition, you will have to follow the rule. Kid,cant bear to do that?


    You I couldnt snapbackat him. Myfaceturnedred.


    He wasnt wrong. Yi Zhangqing didnt do anything against therulesof the match.However,I didnt know what Chuyi wanted to do!


    While I was still thinking, Yi Zhangqing groaned. The Ghost Cutter flew out of her hand. It turnedinto waves of cold lightsthat swarmedtoward Chuyi from every direction.


    I wanted to use the Invisible Needle to help him, but One-Armed Dragon grabbed my arm. I couldnt get rid of his grip no matter how hard I tried to wiggle out of it. Time seemed to stop movingat thismoment. Chuyi hadnt done anything while thecold light from theGhost Cutterwasapproaching him.


    No!!! Seeing Chuyi about to get hit, I screamed.


    Atthis moment, Chuyi suddenly slumped on his knees as his wounds were too severe. Although it helped him dodge most of the cold lights, many beams had hit his stomach. Chuyi spurted blood, then felltothe ground. He didnt move an inchafter that. The bronze whip in his hand was released from his grip. It rolledfar away.


    Good job, Qing! Youve done a greatdealto our Longquan Vi!


    One-armed Dragonughed while hurling me away. We got that toughd. Youre next!


    I didnt mind him. I wanted to get up to help Chuyi. Strangely enough, I couldntmusteranystrength. It seemed all my boneshadsoftened. I couldnt ept this! If I couldnt move, Chuyi would die!


    Yi Zhangqing looked at Chuyiand spatwith disdain.Is he done already? I thought he was tougher!


    She got up and walked forward as she wanted to pick up the bronze whip. Butrightat thatmoment, something unbelievable happened. The bronze whip on the ground suddenly floated up and pierced through Yi Zhangqings stomach!


    Ithappened in the blink of an eye. When I pulled myself together, Yi Zhangqing had a hole as big as a bowlin herbelly. Her internal organs spilled through the hole. Blood streamed down rapidly.


    What What h-happened


    She couldnt believe her eyes. Herhandstriedto put her internal organs back into her belly, but it didnt work. Shefelltothe ground and convulsed. A momentter, shestopped moving.


    One-Armed Dragon,whowas so happyamomentago, was stunned. It took him a lot of time to get a hold of himself. He walked forwardand scoopedYi Zhangqing into his chest. He screamed and criedhis lungs out.


    Merciful Buddha! Merciful Buddha!


    Zen MasterBaimeis voice came from behind. Hebrought his palmstogether in front of his chest. He closed his eyesand shookhis head. Then, he came to pull me up.


    I hurriedly picked up the bronze whip. Zen MasterBaimei, what happened?


    Chuyi knew he couldnt control the bronze whip. Moreover, hewasambushed by Yi Zhangqing. If he pulled back and forth with her, he wouldhave lost. Thats why he chose the most dangerous method, fusing withhisweapon! Zen MasterBaimeisaidin a deep voice.


    I was surprised. Fusing withaweaponwas a very special technique.To make it simple, it was likesending onessoul to theweapon, bing one with itfor a short moment.Just a moment ago, the bronze whip had struck with its best force and pierced through Yi Zhangqings body;itwasa goodexample of how the technique worked.


    However, onlyamaster with great attainment could dothis as there weremany bad consequences. For example, the users soul could receivea bacshfrom the otherworldly item. The other possibility was thatthe fusion couldnt create the desired effect. If the user was careless, his soul could perish.


    Besides, the most difficult requirement to use this technique was that a human couldnt just extract his soul out of his body.It seemedChuyi hadnt reachedsuch a level. Thatwaswhy he didnt dodge Yi Zhangqings attacks. He had deliberately tortured his body to help his soul leave hisflesh.


    I knew that Chuyiwould sacrifice his life for me and that he had always utilized his talents to help me, but I had never thought that he would use thismethod to fulfillmy wish.


    I was bewildered for a long time. Then, I turned to Zen MasterBaimei and askedcoldly,You knew he would do that... Is that whyyou let One-Armed Dragoehere tostop me? He was here to ensure that Chuyis n would proceed smoothly, right?


    Right, admittedZen MasterBaimeiin a low voice.


    Iraisedmy hand, about to hit him. However, before my hand reached his face, I stopped. My eyes turned watery.While shivering, I managed to say,Damn it! Therewill beno next time!


    Then, I ced the bronze whip on Chuyisp. Ilifted himand carriedhim outside. Zen MasterBaimeifollowed mequietly.Suddenly, One-Armed Dragon,who was cryingcrazily, gotup and ran after us. He looked at me with bloodshot eyesand spokethrough his gritted teeth. Leave him here, and I wont kill youter.


    This was thetime I feltthe most dangersince I had entered Fengdu.The bosses of the Ghost Market could scare us because they could rule over ourlives,but if onedidnt care abouttheirlife,thisrule didntapply.


    Although we were the archenemy, I understood the feelings One-Armed Dragon had for Yi Zhangqing.


    Humans werent immovable trees. Who could be heartless for his wholelife?Just amoment ago, Yi Zhangqing and One-Armed Dragonwereridiculingme and Chuyi. Whowould havethought that the situation would changeso muchafter that?


    We couldnt avoid grudges and karma, especially while working asotherworldly merchants.So,I wouldnt give Chuyi to him.


    Still, Iwasnthappyto seeOne-Armed Dragon inpain.


    I answered him with a dark face.One-Armed Dragon, youjust reminded me of the rules.Do you still remember them?


    Damn you! If Qing lostfairly, I wouldnt have stopped you! How did she die? HOWDID SHE DIE?!


    One-armed Dragon had tearsrolling downhis face. After roaring, he couldnt speak anymore. He grunted and gaspedfor his breath like a wild animal.


    Chuyis attackwas rather special. But itwasntagainst therules,was it?


    Then, I ignored him. They were my enemies. If Yi Zhangqing hadnt died, Zen MasterBaimeiandIwouldbe the onescrying right now.


    One-Armed Dragon screamed behind me. I felt a wave of murderous aurahitmy nape. Zen MasterBaimeiimmediately wielded his m beads.


    Rightat thismoment, a red light appeared above our heads. I heard both Zen MasterBaimeiand One-Armed Dragonscreambehind me.


    When I turned around, I saw them on the ground. Thebewitchingvoice of the Demon Kingresounded.

 Chapter 642: Zen Buddha Beads vs Taiyi Traceless Sword

    Chapter 642: Zen Buddha Beads vs Taiyi Traceless Sword


    The match is decided. Congrattions to the winner for obtaining Prince Mas Whip!


    I cast them a nce and carried Chuyi towards the inn.


    Merciful Buddha, chantedZen MasterBaimei. He brought his palms together in front of his chestthen followed me. YoungBenefactor, dont worry. Chuyi will be fine.


    I didnt bat an eyeathim. When we arrived at the inn, I carefullycedChuyi on the bed and treated his wounds.


    Therewas not a singlesquare inch of intact skin on his body. Dark blood was oozing from the wounds created by the Ghost Cutter. Zen MasterBaimeiused the same method to treat the cuts. Strangely enough, Chuyi didnt scream when the knife cut into his flesh, nor did he react when the old monk put ointment on him.


    My eyes turned watery again as I wastooworried. Isaid,Why is that?


    Zen MasterBaimeishook his head and said, Chuyis soul is inside Prince Mas Whip. Well need to take him out.


    I shot Zen MasterBaimeia fierce nce. However, heremainedindifferent. Iwasnt inthe mood to talk to him, so Itookout my tools to prepare to beckon Chuyis soul.


    Prince Mas Whip now belonged to Chuyi. Thatwas why itwasnthard to beckon his soul. I used a few drops of Chuyis blood to invite his soul. Slowly, his soul flew out ofthe whip.


    Chuyis soul looked extremely fragileas thoughhe could vanish in the next moment. I hurriedly made him enter the body.


    Even though Chuyi was bold, he was still a human. If his soulwasaway from his body for a long time, it would be hard to recover. His soul nodded at methenswayed his way intohisbody.


    After hearing Chuyi groan, I exhaled in relief.At thismoment, we heard people moring downstairs. Zen MasterBaimeichanged his countenance. He stood by the windowand watchedoutside.


    Merciful Buddha! He chanted, then said indifferently, Its time for me togoon the stage.


    I looked through the window and saw that the screen above the market had changedtoZen Buddha BeadsvsTaiyi Traceless Sword.


    Itsstarting...Zen MasterBaimeisaid deeply. He turnedand left the room ashis kasayabillowed.


    I grabbed my weaponand followedhim. Although I wasnt pleasedthat he hadpreventedme fromstoppingChuyi earlier, I knew it wasnt his fault. It was part of Chuyis n, andZen MasterBaimeihadsimplycooperated with him.


    The opposingparty had two hotshots. I wouldnt letsomethingunexpected happento Zen MasterBaimei.


    Whats wrong?


    When I got out of the door, I saw Zen MasterBaimeistanding still. Hegrimaced.Heextended a fingerand pointedforward.


    I followedhis fingerandsaw One-Armed Dragon andYin-YangTiger ring at us maliciously. I felt delighted. It seemed Yi Zhangqings death was a bigblowto them!


    Zen MasterBaimeifrowned and said, I cant believe One-Armed Dragon has recovered thatquickly...


    My countenance froze after I heard him. The punishment from the Demon King wasntthat heavy, but Zen MasterBaimeihad coughed blood twice at that time, and hehadnt recovered yet.Meanwhile, One-Armed Dragon looked fine.


    How strongwasOne-Armed Dragon?!


    One-Armed Dragon sneered. Hebroughthis hand to his neck and made a cutting gesture.Yin-YangTigers eyes were full of murderous intentas he gazed atus. It was as ifhe was looking at two corpses. The two of them stared at us for a while before leaving the inn.


    Imadea sullen face. Zen MasterBaimei, what should we do now?Yin-YangTiger looks tough. And, were not One-Armed Dragons equal opponent.


    Zen MasterBaimeididntlookpleased. He kept silent for a while, then sighed.Merciful Buddha, I will try to improviseand stopany strikethates atme.


    Then, hewentdownstairs. I followed closely behind him. The street was even more bustling and hustling thanthe day before. Ghosts gathered on both sides of the street and lookedat the screen above the market. However, they acted as though they didnt see us.


    Itsstarting,I mumbled. Zen MasterBaimeigrabbed the m beadsand headedout of the vige.


    After walking for a while, he looked up at the skyand turnedto talk to me. We have to finish this match before nightfall.


    I understood hismeaning. Fengduhad a moonlessnight. However, with his pair ofYin-Yangeyes,Yin-YangTiger could see through darkness naturally. Zen MasterBaimeiand Iwouldnt be able todeal with him at night as our movementswould be limited.


    Afterwe leftthe vige, we sawYin-YangTigers figure inthefar distance. However, after he made a step forward, he disappeared. I held the Holy Mother Scepterand wasabout to run after him. However, Zen MasterBaimeipulled me backand pointedat the void in front of us. Look over there.


    I followed his line of sight and saw towersthat extendedfrom the ground like bamboo shoots. There were seven of them.


    Zen MasterBaimeimuttered, It is so.


    I was puzzled. Zen Master, what arethose?


    Zen MasterBaimeibowed to the seven towersand mumbled anapology. Then, he started to chant something. The chain of m beadsin his hand started to glow.


    The white light from the beads became dazzling. I used my palm to cover my eyes. Then, I heard Zen MasterBaimeiscream, Go!


    The m beads flew toward the seven towers. I then followed Zen MasterBaimeito the yard between the towers. There was an Eight Diagram carvedonthe door.After thinking about the opponents weapon, which was the Taiyi Traceless Sword, I had abad feeling.The souls dwellinginthat otherworldly item were the seven disciples of the Quanzhen School, right?


    Zen MasterBaimeinodded with a stern face.


    Damn! I cursed under my breath. In history, the Quanzhen Seven Sons were the seven disciples of Wang Chongyang,the founder of the Quanzhen School. Although their martial arts were exaggerated in novels like the Legend of the Condor Heroes, the Quanzhen Seven Sons had indeed reached the peak in Daoist cultivation.


    For example, the Master of Changchun,Qiu Chuji,had once prayed for the rain to help people. Later on, people startedcallinghimLiving Immortal.Hed even traveled ten thousand miles to the west to persuade Genghis Khanto stop raisinghis butcher knife over the innocent people.Legendsabout him hadspread all over China.


    Zen MasterBaimeiobserved for a while, then heaved a sigh of relief. Fortunately, only Qiu Chujis spiritis stayinginside that sword.


    Watch out! I screamed and pulled Zen MasterBaimei. We rolledon the groundas ajet of sword energybrushed pastour heads. I felt my scalp burning.


    Zen MasterBaimeirolled and jumped up. The chain of m beads in his hand caught the sword handleand pulledit down. The swordnded with a nging noise. The seven towers slowly disappeared.


    I frowned.Yin-YangTiger had lured us here, but it wasntjust tunchone attack. Before I could remind Zen MasterBaimei, the situation changed again. The Traceless Sword that had fallen suddenly floated upand aimed atZen MasterBaimei.


    Zen MasterBaimeicouldnt avoid it. The sword left a cut on his arm. I knew it wasnt goodthatthe sword had tasted his blood. I immediately pulled Zen MasterBaimeiaside.


    Indeed, as soon as Zen MasterBaimeiand I movedaway, a few shining des appeared on the ground. If we werent fast enough, Zen MasterBaimeiwould have been a sieve right now.


    He wiped the sweat offhis forehead. Thank you.


    I shook my head. The situations not favorable at all. What should we do now?


    Zen MasterBaimeisaid, YoungBenefactor, in the next moment, please try your best.


    I nodded. Sure, Iwill!

 Chapter 643: Cleverness May Overreach Itself

    Chapter 643: Cleverness May Overreach Itself


    After a while, the des on the ground seemed te tolife. They movedtoward uslike shark fins surfacing on the sea.


    I took a step back.At thismoment, Li Mazis voice suddenly came to me. LittleBrother Zhang, help me!


    I couldnt believe itand turnedto look. Li Mazi was tiedtoa pole. A female ghost wasraisinga knife above him. His bean-sized eyes turned watery when he saw me. LittleBrother Zhang, save me! I dont want to die here. This ghost is so ugly! I dont want to be killed by her!


    I shot him a disdainful nce.So, you want to die in the hands of a beautiful ghost?


    I rushed toward himand usedthe Emei Piercer to smash the female ghost. Then, I curtly cut off the rope that was tying Li Mazi.After checking his bodyonce, I found he wasnt injured in any way.


    Why are you here? I was puzzled.


    He blinked, still looking rathervulgar. He lowered his voice. You know, all the items in this Ghost City are top quality. We just need to get one. After that,we wont need to worry about a thing for the rest of our lives!


    I was speechless. I shouldnt havesavedhim. For the sake ofmoney, hecame to acehe shouldnt havee to. Li Mazi giggledand awkwardlychangedthe topic. Little Brother Zhang, why are you here? What have you got?


    Of course, I


    I suddenly felt a lump in my throat. I couldnt speak.My mind became muddled, then empty.


    Li Mazi wrapped his arm around my shoulder and smiled. I think Ivefoundsome goodstuff. You shoulde with me and see.


    I shot him a doubtful nce. Isit somethingdangerous?


    Li Mazi gave me a scornful look. Little Brother Zhang, we are in the Ghost Market. What kind of otherworldly item would dare towreak havoc here?


    I saw a strange bead. Tch, tch, if wegetit, we will berich! Li Mazimadea faceand said,Hurry up! I dont want someone else to get it!


    I felt that something was wrong, but I couldnt tell whatit was. Perhaps, I was just too cautious.


    Since the Ghost Market had opened, ghostsofall shapes hade and mingled with humans. It was a strange scene.


    Li Mazi pulled me to the center of the marketand pointedat a booth above. He said, You see,that item is on that booth. Iveasked around and the people have told me its something called the mermaids tears. Its priceless!


    Mermaidstears?I heard something explodeinside my head. It felt as though a lightning strike had hit me right at my head. I looked at Li Mazi. He was waving his handswhile describingthe good qualities ofthe mermaidstears.


    Get lost!


    I stabbed the Holy Mother Scepter at him. He felt the painand wrinkledhis face. Looking at me, he groaned, Little Brother Zhang, its okayifyou dont need the mermaidstears, but you shouldnt vent out your anger on me.


    I looked at him in fright.Washe the real Li Mazi?


    I bit my finger and smeared bloodovermy eyes. After taking anotherlook at him, I saw the man was still groaning. The three Yang mes were burning on him. He was a living person.


    Little Brother Zhang, are you all right? He waved his hand in front of mein bewilderment.


    I shoved his hand aside and said, Im okay.Stay here and wait for me.


    Then, I ran to the vige entrance. However, I couldnt sense Zen MasterBaimeis whereabouts. Li Mazi followed me, gasping for his breath. Little Brother Zhang, what happened to you? You look bewildered and frightened.Has aghost possessed you?


    I shot him a fierce nce. He cameand walkednext to me.


    Hey bro, tell me.Haveyou seenanynice female ghosts? Any beautiful girls? I knew it! Show me, show me!he said despicably.


    I pushed him aside. His face turned redas he pitched his voice. Zhang Jiulin, Ivehere from so far away. I was worried about you, but youre afreakingungrateful dude. Why do you do this to me? Do you think Iwilways stayaroundandlet you bully me?


    Suddenly, heraisedhis fist and punched my stomach. I feltasharp twinge. I couldnt believe itand liftedmy head to look at him. Li Mazi was vanishing right in front of me.


    Iloweredmy head and saw half a de wasstabbedinto my stomach. Blood was dripping from the knife. Drops of my blood fell to the floor.


    Zen MasterBaimeiput me on his backand rantoward the vige. YoungBenefactor, were you in an illusion?


    I shivered in pain. I couldnt even speak, so I nodded at him.


    Merciful Buddha.


    He carried me upstairs and put me on the bed. Then, he said, Be patient. Endure it for a while.


    Then, before Icould react, he pressed on my shoulder de and pulled the de out of my stomach.


    I crouched my body in pain, cursing Zen MasterBaimeiand his ancestors in my mind. I was lucky that the small knifehadntstabbed my stomachtoo deeply. It had barely missedmyinternalorgans. Otherwise, I would have diedalready.


    He quickly poured some medicinal powder on the wound. I heard itsizzle. Frightened, I tried to look at my wound. Miraculously, my wound was closing at a speed the naked eye could see.


    A few secondster, there was no wound on my stomach anymore. Ifit werent for the blood on the bedsheet, I wouldhave thoughtthat Iwas neverinjured.


    Zen MasterBaimeilooked sullen. He sat next to me andsaid, Iwasin theillusiontoo. Iwas the onewho stabbed you. Im really sorry.


    My teeth itched. I really wanted to grab the knife andstabitinto his stomach.


    He stood by the windowand lookedat the ming screen in midairin silence. Iwent to him and said, Zen Master, even if we lost this match, we still have a chance!


    Zen MasterBaimeiturned to me. His face had resumedhisusual aloofness. He brought his palms togetherand chanted, Merciful Buddha.


    The sky outside had turned dark. It wasnt favorable to us at all.After resting for a while, we left the inn. Althoughthe battle didnt haveafixedarena, we didnt want to cause troubleatthe inn. If Chuyi got involved again, I thought I would copse this time.


    During thedaytime, the sky was gray here. Still, it was better than navigating the areaat night.At thismoment, the sky was purely dark. Zen MasterBaimeiwas walking just half a meter in front of me, but I could only see the light from his dimly glowing beads.


    At night, the ghosts on the street looked even more terrifying. Eyesglowed of different colors everywhere, like floating mes.


    Master, wait for me.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwas walkingquickly. The light from his beads was moving far ahead of me. I had to run to catch up to him.After we leftthe vige, we went to the wastnd. I decided to use the Invisible Needle to trace the path. This thing was useful, but it used a lot of energy.


    After around twentyminutes, my head couldnt bear it anymore. I had to retrieve the Invisible Needle.All theimages the needle had sent to me were ck.


    I had thought that moving through the night in Fengdu would be scaryand filled withmany strange noises.However,it was the opposite. There was no noise here. Even the sounds of our footsteps were absorbed by the darkness.


    It made me even more anxious. I stayed close to Zen MasterBaimei as Ididnt dare to stray away from him. I was afraid that I would easily get lost here.


    Zen MasterBaimeididnt say a wordand keptwalking forward. The further we walked, the colder itbecame. My teeth almost ttered. I said, Zen Master, where are we going?


    He halted. From the light of his m beads, I saw that hisface was nk.My heart sank. He was being controlled!


    Zen Master! I roared.Myshoutcarried abundant Yang energy.Undersome conditions, loudly shouting could shoo the ghosts away. However, I had done that just to try my luck. If it could control Zen MasterBaimei, how could it be a normal ghost?


    Indeed, he didnt even bat an eye on me. He continued walking forward. Soon, he disappearedfrommy sight. I was so flustered. I rushedandgrabbedhis kasaya.


    No matter what kind of trapYin-YangTiger had set up for us, Ihad to gowith Zen MasterBaimeianddestroyit! The Yin energy around us was getting thicker. I had goosebumps all over my body. Zen MasterBaimeididnt have any reaction to the environment. He draggedme alongand walkedforward.


    I sneezed, feelingthatI was about tofreeze.


    Screwit! Ten more minutes! I shouted and read the Sacred Text of Daoism in my head. After walking further for a while more, I felt my skin crack.After calcting the time, I boldly screamed, Five minutes. Ill walk for five minutes more!


    Time ticked by, but it didnt seem likeZen MasterBaimeiwouldstop in the next second. I was almost frozen. Ayer of frost had appeared on my body.


    Ohshoot! Im not going to do this anymore! Im going back!


    I turned around and was about to leave. Zen MasterBaimei, who hadnt done anything butwalkthe entire time, suddenly pulled me back. He even pushed my back.


    In the night, I felt as thoughmy body was falling free. I kept cursing in my head.


    I guessed Zen MasterBaimeiwas being controlled byYin-YangTiger. But since theywereequally matched, if he wanted to control Zen MasterBaimei, he must be within one hundred meters from us. In other words, he had witnessedourevery move


    Inded on the ground with a thud. The soil here felt soft, but my body felt likecrackedice. I wanted to get up, but I heard the windrushabove my head. I turned my head around to see. A shadow was moving toward me.


    When I sawaglowing white lightin his hand, I knewZen MasterBaimeihad just jumped toward me.


    Ptui!


    Hended on me, andI vomited blood. I didnt care who was controlling him nowand pushedhim aside. He fell on the ground next to me, which startled me.


    Master? Zen Master? I called him.


    He wiggled and got up. With his palms brought together in front of his chest, he chantedMerciful Buddhathen looked at me.YoungBenefactor, are you okay?


    Besidestelling him that I was all right, I couldntinaboutanything else. Zen Master, what just happened?


    Zen MasterBaimeicovered my mouthand loweredhis head to whisper into my ear. When something reaches an extreme, it can only move in the opposite direction. I just checked it.Thesurroundings of thiswellhavethe thickest Yin energy in Fengdu.However,this well is the ce with the strongest Yang energy. We can stay here tonight.


    Wereyou pretendingthe entiretime?


    Of course. It was todeceiveYin-YangTigers team


    I felt a little angry. Master, if they show up now, wellhave no way to escape!


    Zen MasterBaimeifrowned, then rxed his wrinkled face. He said firmly,They wonte here.Right now, theythinkthat we aredead.


    Master, dont forget about the three bosses oftheGhost Market!


    I sighed. If weweredead, the Demon Kingwouldannounce thatYin-YangTigeris the winner. How couldour trick deceive them?


    Zen MasterBaimeiwas perplexed.Hehadnt thought about this. He felt embarrassed and admitted, It seems I didnt calcte everything this time.


    I couldnt me him. At night, ourmovementswerelimited. Finding a spot to hide wasmon idea.


    But now, what I was worried about the most was that this ce wasatrap thatYin-YangTiger had arranged for us! Right when I had suchthoughts, we heard peopleughing above our heads.

 Chapter 644: Deadly Corpse Tree

    Chapter 644: Deadly Corpse Tree


    Haha! You overestimate yourself!


    Yin-YangTiger sounded happy overourmisfortune. He stood by the wend said, Old monk, if you like thiswell thatmuch, Illmake its hoste and treat you well.


    As the cold wind blew up from underneath us, a bad premonition arose in my heart.Wasafierce evil spiritlivingin this well?


    Zen MasterBaimeistood upright. He movedthe beads fast between his fingers. Soon, white light illuminated the entire well.His forehead was covered in sweat.


    Iraisedthe Emei Piercerand lookedaround. If therewasan evil spirit living in this well, it should be at the Ghost King level. Onlyaghost at that level could make Zen MasterBaimeiactthiscautious.


    Therefore, it wasnt that the ghosts didnt dare toe to this well because of the thick Yang energy; it was because of the ominous spirit living in this well.


    Yin-YangTigerughed crazilybefore leaving. Zen MasterBaimeiand I exchanged looks.


    Zen MasterBaimeisighed and said, YoungBenefactor,I was the one whotrapped you here. Im sure I cangetyou out safe and sound.


    I gazed at him and said, What do you mean?


    He shook his head. You know what I mean.Theres noneed to ask.


    Of course, I knew what he meant. Zen MasterBaimeisimply meant that at the critical moment, he would sacrifice himself to ensure that I would live.


    I coldly stared at him, and anger seethed in me. In the end, my face turned redas I roared,I saidI wouldnt let it happen again!


    He was shockedthatI had yelled at him.I let out a sigh anddidnt talk to him.At the momentmyhead turned around, tears swelled in my eyes. What good things had I done to make Zen MasterBaimeiand Chuyi sacrifice their lives for me?


    Once more, more than ever, I craved to have strong power. I didnt want them to get involved every time.


    Anyway, I couldnt do that now. Tobestronger, the first thingI had to do was get out of this well safe and sound.


    I had beencautious forquite sometime,but nothing strange had happened. I was surprisedand asked, Could it be thatYin-YangTigerfooled us to make us drainour energieshere?


    Zen MasterBaimeinodded. Its possible.Why dont you sleepfirst? If something happens, I will wake you up.


    I shook my head. No,this isyour match. You should rest to recover your strength.


    He nodded and smiled at me. Then, he adjusted his kasayaand restedat his spot. Zen MasterBaimeiclosed his eyes.


    The surroundings were so quiet that Icouldonlyhear the two of us breathing. I controlled the Invisible Needles around the wend checkedevery corner.


    The Invisible Needle movedall around, and the images were reported in my head. Although they werent clear, they were enough for me to see the entire well. If Iwasntwrong, this wellwasthe legendary Forgetfulness Well.


    I exhaled. Ifthiswasthe Forgetfulness Well, I could ease my mind.This was amysterious well in Fengdu.Ghosts who had greatluckcoulde here and see their next life.Whensoulscame here, they hoped to see what they were going to be in their next life. Thatwaswhy they wouldnt do anything harmful here.


    As my nerves rxed, the Invisible Needle moved faster. It hadgoneup to the mouth of the wellmany times.


    I hurriedly retrieved it.Then, animage appeared in my head: Yin-YangTiger was crouching by the well, watching our moves.


    My heart throbbed. I calledthe Invisible Needle toe back to me. I leaned against Zen MasterBaimeiand discreetly nudged him.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwasnt asleep. He made a sound to let me know that andkept quiet.Seeing that Zen MasterBaimeiwas well-prepared, I didnt disturb him.I closedmy eyes anddecided to rest.


    The skysoonturned brighter. When Zen MasterBaimeiand I opened our eyes,Yin-YangTiger, who washiding by the well,made a move. He poured arge bucket of icy water on us. The chilly sensationran directly to our hearts.


    mes of angerarose from the bottom of my heart. I beckoned a little ghost to bring me out of the well. I wielded the Holy Mother Scepterand aimedit at him.


    Zen MasterBaimeicrawled out of the well behind me. He threw his m beads towardYin-YangTigers head.


    Yin-YangTiger was an excellentfighter. However, he was best known for his fast reflexesand cunning mind. It meant that his fighting capacitywasntgood enough. He couldnt resist both ofusfor a long time.


    I felt cheered upand preparedto capture him. Suddenly, One-Armed Dragon appeared. A white shadow tagged behind him.


    When I saw them, I tensed up. That white shadow was Chuyi!


    Follow them! screamedZen MasterBaimei.


    I retrievedtheHoly Mother Scepter and ran after them.Yin-YangTiger wanted to stop me. As Ihurriedafter One-armed Dragon, I didnt have the mind to parry with him. Idirectly read theBigDipper Sirius Whip. The Holy Mother Scepter radiated a fierce red light. Immediately, I threw it towardYin-YangTiger.


    Yin-YangTiger easily avoided the staff. Zen MasterBaimeicame to entangle with him, whileI hurriedly ran in the direction where One-Armed Dragon had disappeared.


    He was fast, but it seemed he was waiting for me on purpose. Thatwaswhy I hadnt lost track of him yet.


    I knew he was luring me intoatrap.However,Chuyi was with him. I had to grit my teethand followhim. Along the way, ghosts continuously came to me. They sniggered and gazedat me. You are going to lose! You are going to lose!


    My rage arose again. I screamed, Get lost!


    They sniggeredand flewaway.


    Damn it!


    I felt like I was a tiger being bullied by a bunch of stray dogs on the streets. I couldnt just kill any ghostI met in Fengdu. I had toshow respectto their masters. If the Demon Kingbecame angry, I wouldnt even knowthe cause of my death.


    The more I thought about it, the angrier Ifelt. I wanted to vent out my wrath on One-Armed Dragon. If they hadnt troubled us, we would have been able toreturnhome and save my inws with the mermaidstears.


    YoungBenefactor, why are you still here?


    The me of anger in my heart burned harder, untilI heard Zen MasterBaimeis voice.I was surprisedto seethat Iwasin an illusion.


    After all, there should be no ghosts around.As the bosses had separated us, those ghosts couldnt see us!


    I wiped the sweatoffmy forehead. I wanted to chase him further.But when I lifted my head, One-Armed Dragon was nowhere to be seen.


    My face turned sullen. We lost them. I wonder if Chuyi is okay.


    Zen MasterBaimeifrowned. He held the m beads in front of him and chanted something indistinctive. Then, he threw the chain of beads over his head. The m beads spun in the air,releasing awhite light. Suddenly,theyflew away.


    I was cheered up.Couldthe spirit living in the m beads sense Chuyis whereabouts?


    Indeed, Zen MasterBaimeicalled me to follow the beads. After running for a long time, the beads stopped at a dark tree. It was sobig that it would take ten people to surround it.


    A mass of Yin energy hovered above the tree. I was curious why the Yin energy had only gathered above the tree. I looked closer and found that the mass of energywantedto move outward. However, as soon as it flew out of the range of the canopy, it bounced back as though it had bumped intoaninvisible barrier.


    What the heck is that?


    I gulped my saliva. If it came out, I thought that even my grandfather couldnt do anything.


    Zen MasterBaimeisaid quietly, YoungBenefactor,if we lose, Im afraid we will be fertilizer for this dead tree.


    This tree was a Corpse Tree. To grow,it absorbed corpses and souls.


    Cold sweat damped my palms. I didnt look at the tree anymore. From the corner of my eye, I captured a glimpse of a white shadow. I was frightened,and then wished to killOne-Armed Dragon.At thismoment, Chuyi was hung on the Corpse Tree!


    I screamedhis name, Chuyi!


    Raising the Holy Mother Scepter, I didnt mind anything elseand dashedtoward the Corpse Tree. However, before I couldtakeasecond step, I bumped into a barrierand bouncedback.


    I felt as thoughI had been in a freezer for a dozen hours. Mylimbshad turned rigid. I looked at the corpse tree in fright. If the barrier was that fierce, our Chuyi would


    Zen MasterBaimeilifted his kasaya and sat down. He shouted,Chant the sacred texts with me!


    He started to read the Diamond Sutra while I read the Sacred Text of Daoism. After chanting it a few times, mylimbscould feel and move again. I stretched and checked my arms.I asked, Master, what should we do now? Chuyi is


    Zen MasterBaimeiput the beads on his wrist.He read something very quickly, and a halo expanded from his hand. It createda light cagethat protectedhim. He got up and asked me to watch out outside. Then he walked toward the deadly Corpse Tree.


    When he came to thebarrier, the air suddenlyrippedapart. His white halo rubbed against a ring of dark smoke. They sizzled and sparked as though they were electricity.


    Zen MasterBaimeiswayed for a while. Before the white halo was worn out, he got in. Then, he moved much faster. It seemed the tree only had one barrier. Feeling relieved, Iexhaled.


    Suddenly, Zen MasterBaimeiscreamed,Not good!


    He retreated like a lightning bolt. He staggered and slumpedto the ground,vomiting blood.


    Master


    I hurriedly lifted him. I said as I gritted my teeth, I should go!


    Zen MasterBaimeishook his head. Chuyi is trapped inanillusion, and hewittack anybodythat intrudes!


    I cursed under my breath,then turnedto rushback to the inn.


    Zen MasterBaimeistopped me and said, Where are you going?


    I smiled coldly. Of course, Im going back to deal withYin-YangTiger. As long as he is defeated, One-Armed Dragon has to release Chuyi!


    YoungBenefactor, dontactrecklessly.


    Zen MasterBaimeibrought his palms together in front of his chestand chanted, Merciful Buddha.


    Then, he rubbed the m beads at my be. Dont let them control your mind. Otherwise, Chuyis life will be in grave danger.


    I was shocked, but soon, Icooled my head. I read the Sacred Text of Daoism to subdue theangerin my heart.


    Chuyi was trapped inan illusion. If I left now, Zen MasterBaimeiwouldnt be able to defend himselforfind a chance to save Chuyi. I thought I wouldbreakdown in the next moment. What should we do now?


    Zen MasterBaimeithought for a while then shook his head. Chuyis soul and body are in trouble. We cant dy it for a second. We should find a way to get him out of there as soon as possible.


    I gritted my teethand saidstubbornly. Zen Master, let me try! That deadly Corpse Tree has thick Yin energy. Im afraidChuyicant put up with it for a long time.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwas perplexed. But then, he nodded. He understood that Chuyi couldnt stand it for a long time. Seeing his expression, my heart sank.


    Zen MasterBaimeigave me the m beads he often worearoundhis neck. He chanted something, which seemed to give more energy to the beads. A white light glowed,which then coveredme. I felt a flow of warm watermovearound my body.


    No matter what you see, itsjust an illusion! Keep this in mind! said Zen MasterBaimei. Hesat down cross-legged. Ill protect you from here.

 Chapter 645: Yin-Yang Tiger’s Evil Scheme

    Chapter 645: Yin-Yang Tiger¡¯s Evil Scheme


    My heart calmed down. I held the Holy Mother Sceptertightly and made my waytowards the Corpse Tree.Unexpectedly, I didnt have tobear thetrees attack.I shortlyreached Chuyi.


    Chuyis woundshadopened again, and his blood had dyed his white shirt red. His face was now chalk-white. I felt a twinge in my heart.


    Damn you! I couldnt help but curse. Ever since I had known him, I had never seen him in such alife-threateningsituation.


    Icalmedthe me of anger in myheart.Iraisedmy hand to untie him.However, even thoughI had worked on it for a long time, Istill couldnt untie the rope. I cursed under my breath, feeling helpless.


    Jiulin


    While I didnt know what to do, Chuyi suddenly called me. I turned to see him. He was awake!


    Tearsfellfrom my eyes.I carefullyasked, Chuyi, how do you feel now?


    At thismoment, Chuyi was like a cotton doll. He weakly gasped for his breath. Im okay. This Corpse Tree has extremely thick Yin energy, so give the rope two drops ofyourblood.After that,wait for the dark smoke to vanish. You can untie me then.


    I took a closer look. Indeed, wisps of dark smoke were crawling on the rope. It seemed that dark smoke had affected my mind. Otherwise, even athree-year-oldkid could have untied such a knot.


    I bit my index finger todropsome blood on the rope. However, I captured a glimpse of Chuyi through the corner of my eye while doing so. Shockingly, he was looking at me with bright, high-spirited eyes!


    No! Hesnot Chuyi!


    I panicked andsmeared bloodovermy eyesbefore lookingat him again. He was breathing weakly,butitdidnt look like he was awake!


    Screwyou! I couldnt help but curse.It made no sense forChuyito have recovered thatquickly. I was tricked byan illusionagain!


    Chuyis Yang energy wasdiminishing. Two of the three Yang mesin his body had extinguished. Thest one was flickering.


    I dropped my blood into his mouth. After his Yang me burned normally again, I freed him from the rope and carried him on my back before leaving the tree.


    After walking for around ten minutes, I felt thatsomething was wrong. Although the deadly Corpse Tree was massive, it wouldtakefive minutesat mostto get out of its canopy range.


    I used the Invisible Needle tofindmy way. However, the needle flewdisorderlyaround me andnded back on my palm.Icould only put it away.I closedmy eyesanddidnt think. I just kept walking forward. After a while, I felt something in front of me. I opened my eyes and saw a copsed wall.


    A wave ofcold airswarmed toward me. My heart sank. It wasnt a wall, butmaterialized Yin energy!


    YoungBenefactor, are you there? Zen MasterBaimeis voice arosefromthe other side of the wall.


    I screamed happily, Zen Master, its me. Ivegot Chuyi. Help me out!


    Zen MasterBaimeididnt answer. With Chuyi on my back, I paced back and forth. I could have just stormed through the wall, which wouldhave costsome of my Yang energy. However, Chuyis Yang energy was insufficientat the moment. If I did that, I could smash his soul.


    YoungBenefactor, listen to me carefully. Dont talk, just listen. Zen MasterBaimeis voice arose in my head. I shiveredand paid attention to his words.


    The Chuyi you have rescued is an imposter. Chuyihasjustwokenup. He called me. Hes in the hotel. Weve stepped in their trap.


    Perhaps it was some sort of mental effect, but my back felt so coldafter listening to Zen MasterBaimei.


    The people from the Longquan Vi were so cunning. They had used Li Mazi to trick me, and now they were usinganotherold trick, whichhad worked on me well!


    I gritted my teeth to calm down. Iknew I couldntlet him know that Ihad found out the truth. As I was afraid that he would findout, Ipretendedto beworriedand nervous. I pacedback and forth to find the way out.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwas still speaking in my head. The person you have rescuedhas tobeYin-Yang Tiger. Hesgot the Taiyi Traceless Sword. Dont quarrel with him!


    I knew that already. If I fought against him now, it would bethe same as asking fordeath. I let him downand pretendedto drop more blood into his mouth to enhance his Yang me.


    A few drops of blood couldnt boost the Yang me that much.Yin-Yang Tigerhadweakenedhis Yang mes on purpose to deceive me, which wasa big mistakeasit would go well with my new n.


    I gentlysaid, Chuyi, I will take you out of here. You must be patient. Put up with it for a while more.


    I put himback on my back and headed towards the Yin energy wall. When the Yin energycoveredus entirely, I heard himscream. Since he hadweakenedhis Yang me, he couldnt endure this thick mass of Yin energy.


    I pretended notto hearanythingand keptrunning around the mass of Yin energy.


    Soon, the Yin energy founditsway to my body. I felt the blood in my body freezing.


    I guessed I had torturedYin-Yang Tigerenough. I pulled myself togetherand bargeddirectly into the wall.


    At the moment I reappeared, Zen MasterBaimeiscreamed, Watch out!


    I suddenly hurledYin-Yang Tigeraside and ran toward Zen MasterBaimei.Yin-Yang Tigernow knew that he was busted. With a dark face, he wielded the Taiyi Traceless Swordand attacked. His sword energy aimed at Zen MasterBaimei; he stabbedfuriously. Zen MasterBaimeirose his m beads to parry against him.


    Although I had yed withYin-Yang Tigerfor a while to drain him, his reflexeswerestillgood. Zen MasterBaimeis attacks weredealt witheasily. After a few strikes,Yin-Yang Tigergrimaced while Zen MasterBaimeihad already vomited blood.


    I knewthat if I didnt do anything, itwould be toote. I hurriedly controlled the Invisible Needle to stabYin-Yang Tiger. Even if his reflexesweregood,theywouldnt be faster than my thoughts.His moves slowed down after the Invisible Needle had pricked him a few times.


    Zen MasterBaimeiseized the chance to wield his m beadsand hit Yin-Yang Tigersforehead. The man was shaken, but then, he decided not to defendand recklesslyattackedZen MasterBaimeiwith his sword energy.


    Ifelthappyas I controlledthe Invisible Needle to stabthespine of his neck. He suddenlyughed crazily and shouted, A life for a life.Its worth it!


    No! Zen MasterBaimeiscreamed. Hetried his best to smash the sword energy from the other party.Then, hequickly turned around to run away.


    A bad premonition arose in my head. I cruelly stabbedYin-Yang Tigers neck with the Invisible Needle. However,Icouldnt concentrate wendmissed the target by a little bit.Yin-Yang Tigerspurted blood.


    Zen MasterBaimeiturned to meand screamed, Dont touch him. Chuyis in danger!


    I immediately retrieved the Invisible Needle and followed himback to the vige.When we arrived at the inn, Zen MasterBaimeidirectly kicked the door open. He returned shortly after. Chuyi isnt in the room.


    I was scaredand rushedinto our room to check. The bedsheet was damp with blood. Chuyis Prince MasWhip and the eight-faceted Han swordwere nowhereto be seen.


    It made sense now. Earlier,Zen MasterBaimeiand I had almost killedYin-Yang Tiger,but One-Armed Dragonhadnt shown upto help. He hadgo the innto trouble Chuyi!


    With a murderouslook on my face, I wanted to go out. However, Zen MasterBaimeistopped me. His voice was heavy. Illfind Chuyi. You shouldlook forsome herbs thatcan strengthenhis foundation. Hurry! Well meet upin a while!


    I was surprisedand lookedat Zen MasterBaimei. Helookedworriedas hehastilyleft. He didnt even have time to exinthe situationto me.


    Foundation-strengtheningherbs werewhatwe used when we wanted to gather the pieces ofa soul. I felt a heart-wrenching pain. Did Zen MasterBaimeiknow that Chuyi was dying?


    I went downstairs to find a pharmacy. However, after spending a great deal of timetalkingto theshopkeeper, Irealizedthat he couldnt see me! Asit was anemergency, I had to leave a note at his counter. Ipicked up the herbsand rantoward the entrance of the vige.


    When I got there, the chain of m beads I was wearing slowlyfloatedup andpointedin a direction. It seemed Zen MasterBaimeiwas there. I ran faster. However, it took me quite a long time before Icould hear thefight.


    I became anxious. When I got there,Yin-Yang Tigerand One-Armed Dragon were forcing Zen MasterBaimeiintoa corner.Yin-Yang Tigerscreamedas he wieldedhis sword. He was attemptingto sh Zen Master.


    I threw the Emei Piercer and read theBigDipper Sirius Spell. At the same time, I controlled the Invisible Needle to stabYin-Yang Tiger.


    AlthoughI wasntpetent enough, Ineeded tobet onmy strength!

 Chapter 646: The Great Buddhist Formation

    Chapter 646: The Great Buddhist Formation


    Yin-Yang Tigerwas hit byInvisible Needle. His body swayedas he raisedthe Taiyi Traceless Sword to protect himself.


    Aftermaking sure thatZen MasterBaimei was away from harm, I retrieved theneedle. Then, I felt my bloodriseinmy throat.I frowned andswallowed it back.


    Zen MasterBaimeitook the chance to retreat.


    Wheres Chuyi? I looked around and didnt see Chuyi.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwiped the trickle of blood at the corner of his mouth. His voice was angry. Theyve controlled Chuyi.


    I didnt understand. Immediately, a white light shed in front of us, followed by Chuyi himself.


    His face hadreturned back to normal. He looked healthy, and his wounds hadmostly recovered. At thismoment, he looked both handsome and cold.


    I stepped forwardinexcitement. Youre all right?


    Get back here! Zen MasterBaimeiscreamed. At the same time, Chuyi stabbed his eight-faceted Han sword at me.


    I didnt know what was going on, but I knew if that swordhitme, I would die. Immediately, I dodged and rolled away. The eight-faceted Han sword stabbed the ground where I had just stood, creating a hole.


    As his attack had failed, he withdrew his sword with an emotionless face. I rolled one more time on the groundto dodge his second attack.


    One-Armed Dragon andYin-Yang Tigeughed and attacked us at the same time. Shortly after, Zen MasterBaimeiand I wereat a disadvantage.


    Chuyi was putting pressure on me. I had to use the Invisible Needle to stab his arm.


    Stop!


    Zen MasterBaimeisuddenly stormed forward. His tone was serious. Retrieve the Invisible Needle, they


    I heard some puffing noises near me. Zen MasterBaimeilooked at me with regret. I turned around and saw Chuyi holding the eight-faceted Han sword, kneeling on one knee. The tiny Invisible Needle had stabbed intohisbe. Itseemed it was tryingtogodeeper into his skull.


    I panicked andtried to retrieve the Invisible Needle.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwound the chain of m beads around his wrist.He then lookedatYin-Yang TigerandOne-Arm Dragonandspoke coldly,Today, this old monk will kill someone!


    Yin-Yang Tigersneered disdainfully and said, Old donkey, Im afraid you dont havethepower to dothat.


    One-Armed Dragon looked at usgloomily;his voice was low and resonating, Theres no need to babble with the dead.Kill them. We have to take revenge for Qing!


    I knew it was going to be dangerous.I grabbedthe Holy Mother Scepterandattacked immediately.


    One-armed Dragon easily caught the Holy Mother Scepter. His arm force wassostrong that I couldnt make any more moves.


    Then, huncheda palm attack at my chest. I staggered backward andnded on my butt.


    Zen MasterBaimeiwasntin a better situationthan me. He had given up defendingas he was busy drawing something on the ground. This allowed Yin-Yang Tiger to leave many cuts on his body with the Taiyi Traceless Sword.


    It seemed hed chosen the same suicidal methodasChuyi had done. I was scaredand screamed hastily, Zen Master! I told you before that it shouldnt happen again!


    One-Armed Dragon pulled me upwith an evil smile.Kid, you should worry about yourself.


    Then, he threw me away.


    My bloodshot eyesstaredat him. I usedeverything I hadto attack him. In the end, I had sessfullydisruptedhis moves.


    He wanted to y hardand pushedme away with a simple blow. He spat disdainfully, Youre crazy!


    I vomited a mouthful of bloodand grittedmy teeth. Crazy? Youpeople from theLongquan Viarefreakingcrazy! You know, youre like crazy dogs that keep barking and biting people!


    He grabbed my neckand liftedme. What did you say?


    My face reddened. Still, I managed to repeat, I said,you people from the Longquan Vi are freaking crazy!You know, youre like crazy dogs that keep barking and biting people!


    I knew I shouldnt enrage him now.However,as Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimeihad neglected their lives to deal with this group of people, my nerveshadalready cracked.


    Illkill you!


    One-Armed Dragon wasenraged. His eyes turned redas he gazedat me.


    I didnt care about anything else right now.I dare you to kill me! If you kill me, the people from the Zhang family in Jiangbei will take revenge for me!


    His grip loosened a little bit. He hesitated.The Longquan Vi was still somewhat afraid of the Zhang family in Jiangbei!


    Yin-Yang Tiger spoke while panting. Brother, move!


    One-Armed Dragon moved aside. Immediately, a sharp white light shedatme.


    However,I didnt fenypain. I recognized it was just a false strike to force One-Armed Dragon to let me go. Then, another white light shed. As tender as a silky ribbon, it pulled me toward Zen MasterBaimei.


    Zen MasterBaimeihadblood stainsall over his body. I wanted to ask him how he was, buthe gestured to meto stop. He weakly askedme to give him the foundation-enhancing herbs.


    I took out a few herbs from mypocket. Zen MasterBaimeichewed the leaves for a while then made Chuyi swallowthem.


    Chuyi was still unconscious. Looking at him, I guessed he had recovered his sanity.


    Then, Zen MasterBaimeicut his palm. He said, Im going to take you two back.


    Hewantedto useagreat Buddhist technique to teleport us!


    If he used such a great magical technique, he would have to pay for itby sacrificingfive years of his life. He wasan old man.I knew how much five years meant to him. I gritted my teethand toldhim not to do that.


    Zen MasterBaimeistopped meand shouted, Even if you dont want it, Chuyi cant stay here any longer.


    I noddedand saidnothing. Zen MasterBaimeisat down and started to read the spell. Instantly, red light glowed around us.Yin-Yang TigerandOne-Armed Dragonwere standing outside, staring at us.It seemed they were afraid of the light.


    Open! screamed Zen MasterBaimei.Chuyi slowly dimmed out until hepletely disappeared. I heaved a sigh of relief.


    Yin-Yang Tigerand One-Armed Dragon couldnt wait anymore. They immediately attacked Zen MasterBaimeiwith their sword energy.After amoment, they sessfully smashed the red halo around us.


    Puff!


    Zen MasterBaimeispat blood. He struggledto tryto maintain the formation.


    I shouted, Chuyi left. Its time to take care ofourselves!


    After I said that, Zen MasterBaimeistopped the formation. He reluctantly activated the m beads to create ayer of protection.


    Seeing his sword energy being stopped by the m beadswhite halo,Yin-Yang Tigerbit the tip of his tongue and spat blood on the sword. With the energy from his blood, the sword was greatly boosted. The light from the m beads dimmed out. Thisscenefeltas thoughtens of thousands ofBuddhas were dying.


    I couldnt help but inhale deeply.Was thisthe real power of the QuanzhensSevenSons?


    The torrential sword energy moved around us. In a short time, the two of us had cuts all over our bodies.


    Zen MasterBaimeisuddenly spat blood on his m beads. The chain of Buddhist m beads glowed again.Itcould deal with the sword energy for a while.


    Zen MasterBaimeiraised his m beads higher. The light from the beads dimmed again. He turnedand shouted, Hurry up! Get back to the inn to help Chuyi!


    In the next moment, he seemed to have used all of his power to throw me out of the range of the battle.


    I knew I couldnt do anything if I stayed. Moreover, Chuyi needed my attention. Gritting my teeth, I used the Invisible Needle to findaway out of theillusion. I didnt turn aroundand dashedaway.


    Haha, you run faster than a little rabbit!


    Evilughterresounded as a shadow in ck appeared in my way. I haltedand tightened my hold on theHoly Mother Scepter.One-Armed Dragon was chasing after me. Although he didnt have anyweapons, my legs were still shaking.


    AsChuyi wasnt his equal opponent, I wasnt even worth mentioning here!He could finish me within seconds!

 Chapter 647: Ghost Claw vs Perpetual Spirit Ring

    Chapter 647: Ghost w vs Perpetual Spirit Ring


    I hurriedly checked all the stuff I could use whilekeeping track ofOne-Armed Dragons movements. I didnt want to miss any move of his!


    He raised his arm, and I sawhis fistingright atmy face. I hurriedly read theBigDipper Sirius Spell; red light bloomed from the Holy Mother Scepter. However, One-Armed Dragons punch wasalreadyin front of my face.


    The red light from the Holy Mother Scepter was pushed backward little by little, causing my chest tovibratehard. Ithoughtitwould explode in the next second.


    One-Armed Dragon grabbed my throat. I screamed and usedthst bit of mystrength to stab the Invisible Needle right at his be.


    The man didnt expect that Iwould counterattack. After all, itlooked like I had nothing else left to use. He couldnt dodge my attack.Blood immediatelystreameddownhis forehead.


    Unexpectedly, heraisedhis hand and wiped it.Hiswound closed miraculously.


    Despairshrouded myheartasInded on my butt. My head was emptyas I watchedOne-Armed Dragons handaimat my throat one more time


    Atthis moment, a senile hand stopped One-Armed Dragons attack. I turned and saw Zen MasterBaimei. I didnt know why, but I suddenly felt that his cultivation base had increasedsignificantly.


    One-Armed Dragon was now pulling back and forth with Zen MasterBaimei withtheir magic powers. The wound on his be that had disappeared wasnowcracked andbleeding. Zen MasterBaimei attacked furiously. He put the chain of m beadsaroundOne-Armed Dragons neck. Themanstaggered and stumbled.


    Brother!Yin-Yang Tigershoutedwhen he saw One-Armed Dragonfall.He immediatelydashed toward Zen MasterBaimei.


    AsYin-Yang Tigerhade to assist his brother, Zen MasterBaimeifelt he couldnt put up with both of them. Shortly after,Yin-Yang Tigerhad pricked him a few times.Out of energy, the monk slumped.


    Iunderstoodthat Zen MasterBaimeis strength just now was hisfinal showingbefore his death.


    Yin-Yang Tigerstepped on Zen MasterBaimeis chestand usedthe Taiyi Traceless Sword to pat his face. He shouted, You old donkey, youre about to be buried under the yellow earth, yet you dare to act tough?


    Zen MasterBaimeistillkepthis calm and indifferent face. However, it was a stab to my heart.


    He nodded at me. Run!


    I closed my eyes. Tears rolled down my cheeks. I grabbed the Holy Mother Scepter and ran. I crossed my heart and pledged that after this trading conference was over, even if I had to pay with my life, I wouldset things straightwith the Longquan Vi!


    When I returned to the inn, I stood by the window and looked at the screen above the market.


    The screen was showing burning mes, butI was able to seethrough them. IsawYin-Yang Tigerinsulting Zen MasterBaimei.


    I clenched my fistsand carved Yin-Yang Tigers image into my head. He would be the first one Iwould findafter this trade conference was over.


    Youre back?


    A feeble voice came from behind me. I turned and foundthatChuyi was awake. He asked worriedly, Why are you here alone? Where is Zen MasterBaimei?


    I didnt dare to look in his eyes. I had to gather my courage to tell him what had happened.


    Theyre courting death!


    Chuyis eyes turned red. He clenched his fists then spurted blood. He fell back to the bedbeforecking out.


    At thismoment, I heard the crowd cheering outside. I went to the window to see. The screen now showed thatYin-Yang Tigerwas the winner. Hehadobtained the Taiyi Traceless Sword.


    The result was clear, andI felt as though my heart was emptied out. I wondered if Zen MasterBaimeiwasdead.


    IthoughtI wouldgocrazy soon. I rushed downstairs. I wantedto find him. When I got out of the inn, I saw a few shadows carrying Zen MasterBaimeiback.


    The ghost leading the team said something, then threw Zen MasterBaimeion the bed.They left shortly after.


    I didnt know what he was saying. But when they left, theysmiled. It seemed the Demon King didnt kill Zen MasterBaimeiafter he lost the match. Looking at the two unconscious people on the bed, I felt strangely pressured!


    I thought that Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimeiwouldhaveeasily won. It turned outthatafter the two matches, both of them were severely injured.


    Chuyi hadrisked his lifeto win, butZen MasterBaimeiwas crushed byYin-Yang Tiger. The Buddhist m beads couldnt subdue the sword. The pressurenow hungon my head. If I lost the match, then everything Chuyi and Zen MasterBaimeihad done would have been in vain.


    However, Ididnt even knowthe name ofmy otherworldly item. Right now,it was no different froma broken ring.


    If I faced One-Armed Dragon one on one, I wasnt his equal opponent. Moreover, he wasafirst-ssexpert in the Longquan Vi. Surely, hehadmany experiences in dealing with otherworldly items.


    As the time drew nearer to the morning, Chuyi woke up while Zen MasterBaimeiwas still in aa. He sat up and coughed. Jiulin, you have to trust yourself! No matter what happens, never give up. You have to keepthisin your mind. As long as you are patient andputup with it, you will receive the mermaids tears!


    I nodded and poured him a cup of water. Then, I askedhim to wait for my goodnews. I grabbed the Holy Mother Scepterand leftthe inn.


    On the way to the market, the peoplemadeway for me. They knew I would join the next match soon. Somehumansand ghosts gave me thumbs-ups.


    I didnt care about them. Lifting my head, I saw the mermaidstearshovering in midair.


    Chuyi was right. Ihad tobe persistent.Before I reached the destination, I shouldnt let them defeat me.


    After thinking about YinXinyue,who was waiting for me at home, I felt full of energy.


    Suddenly, the crowd cheered enthusiastically.


    Finally, thest matchis starting! One-Armed Dragons excited voice came from the center of the market.


    I saw the crowd parting, makingwayfor him. Hewas running toward me with a strange saber in his hand.


    He stopped in front of me and assessed me fromheadto toe. In the end, his eyes stopped at the ring.


    After a moment, he burst outughingand spoketo me in a way heassumed was humorous. Kid, we dont even need to fight


    Asafirst-ssfigurein the Circle of otherworldly merchants, he knew my ring was trash at the first nce.


    I was embarrassed, and myfaceturnedred. Whether we needto fightor notis something well haveto see,I said through gritted teeth.


    Come,e! Itsstarted!


    My God, its the Ghost w Saber!


    After I barked backathim, the crowd had another uproar. Instinctively, I lifted my head toseethe screen. It said, Perpetual Spirit RingvsGhost w.


    I took a deep breath.One-Armed Dragonhadthe Ghost w. My moodreceivedanother fatalblow.


    The Ghost w was one of the most bizarreweaponsin this world. I heard that it was made in the fourteenth century by a cksmith fromItaly. That cksmithliked gambling, but he couldnt pay his debt atst. In the end, he killed his wife and sonand usedtheir bones to create this horrible sabertogive to hiscreditor.


    However, three dayster, hiscreditors home was burned down,which killedhis entire family. From that day onwards, the Ghost w had beenin the hands ofmanypeople. However, every time, its ownerdiedwithout a known cause.


    The Ghost w disappeared, but the rumors about it had never ceased.It gradually became a symbol ofbadluck. I had never expected to see it in this Ghost Market!


    Although the Ghost wbroughtmisfortune toitsowner, it surely hadintimidating power. As One-Armed Dragon had lostanarm, he coincidentlyshared the samepainasthe spirits inside that saber.


    The ghosts around me discussed boisterously. They wereasking around if anybodyknewabout the Perpetual Spirit Ring.


    Never heard of it. I guess they put it in to get enough items


    That kid is so unlucky. He got this broken item. I dontthink theresanythingto see. The Ghost w will win!


    After listening to their conversation, my head became muddled like a bowl of congee. Everybody thought that Ididnt have achance of winning.


    However,I wasnt a person who would eptaloss that easily. The more difficultthe challenge, the stronger my will to fight!


    Suddenly, the noise of the crowd disappeared. The images on the ming screenweregone. I knew the match had started. Immediately, I turned and headed toward the vige entrance.


    I knew I couldnt fight against him face-to-face, soIwouldwaitintheillusionalndand ambush him!That washow I could survive.


    I could use the Invisible Needle togo anywhereI wanted, but it would be difficult for One-Armed Dragon to dothe same.


    It wastheonly advantage I had now!

 Chapter 648: The Battle on the Bridge of Helplessness

    Chapter 648: The Battle on the Bridge of Helplessness


    Haha, all right.Illlet you run free for now!


    One-Armed Dragon seemed to read mythoughts. He snorted disdainfully.


    I felt my face heating up. I ranfaster. To seize more time, I crossed a fewillusionsin a row. In the end, I stoppedina strange world.


    The world in front of me was different from the River of Unmindfulness and the batforest.At thismoment, a hazy rainfellfrom the gray sky.


    People rumored that the rain in Hell was as red as blood, but it didnt seem to be the case. The tinyraindropsthat fellon mewere as soft ascotton, justlike the wind diving into the night and moistening things quietly.


    I blew into my palms to feel warmer. Then, I looked ahead of me. The vastnd in front of mewasfull of ghosts.


    They were walking around with rigid movements.However, they didnt talk tooneanother. Even if they bumped into each other, they justmovedaside andcontinuedwalking. Such an imagbinedwith the cold, hazy raincreated anapocalypticscene.


    The world in front of me was spacious. I needed to find a ce to hide. By chance, I saw a pavilion inthe distance. There wasa ck structure behind it. Most of the ghosts were heading to that ce.


    I hesitantly stood for a while. In the end, I decided to go there. Aftertakingtwo steps, I felt a strong murderous aura aiming at me. In justtheblink of an eye, it shrouded mepletely.


    I was sure that it wasnt from One-Armed Dragonas he hadnt reached this horribleceyet. I carefully turned around. At first nce, I saw that all the ghostswere gazingat me like tigers eyeing their prey. Their eyessparkledwith hostility and greed.


    Ohshoot...


    I remembered that I wasnt in the trade market anymore.It made sense that they would swarm and attack me once they noticed my Yang mes.Iwas dIhad a fastreaction.


    At the moment the ghosts came to me, I cursed under my breath and took out a Yang Concealing Talisman. The ghosts immediately stopped movingand looked at meskeptically. Eventually, they shook their heads. Theirfaces resumedtheir nk expressions. Turning around, they continued their journey to the ck structure.


    I exhaled and scurried to the small pavilion in front of me. I saw someverseson the two columns of the pavilion.


    The first coupletwas,Humans and ghosts, ghosts and humans, we are different,while the second coupletwas,Yin and Yang, Yang and Yin, Yin and Yang are always separated.A dark board was hung above the two couplets with thrergebloody words: Hall of Ecstasy.


    My heart sank, andI instinctively stopped walking.


    The Hall of Ecstasy wasace every ghost had topassthroughto getto their new life. Legendhas itthatonceghosts passed this ce, they were considereddead. This was truedeath. And, if a living person walked through this ce,theywould enter thecycle of reincarnation. By that time,nonecould savetheir life!


    Behind the Hall of Ecstasywas a stream. Each ghost had to drink the water here. After drinking the water, they would tell the Ghost Servants all the good and bad things they had done during their life. Afterward, the Ghost Servants would take them to the Ten Courts of Hell to receive theirjudgment. The ghost behind me pushed me as I lingered and didnt walk into the ce.


    Ihurriedlymoved asideand madewayforhim. I used the Invisible Needle to look around. Immediately, One-Armed Dragons image appeared in my head. He was running fast toward me. The only structure in this illusoryscene was the pavilion and the path behind it.SinceI couldntenter, I decided to stay hereand wait.


    Looking at the ghosts entering the Hall of Ecstasy, I suddenly got an idea.I would use the Invisible Needle to stab One-Armed Dragon while he wasnt paying attention!


    However,I shook my head right after that. One-Armed Dragon wasatopexpertin the Longquan Vi. He wouldnt be fooled by a rookie like me.


    I suddenly thoughtofthe Bridge of Helplessness, which crossed over the River of Unmindfulness.


    Earlier, when we went there, Chuyi didnt want to step into the river because hewasinjured.Meanwhile, except forsome confusion, Ididnt fenything strange there.


    Didit mean thatpeoplewith a highercultivation base wouldexperience more damagewhen they came close to the River of Unmindfulness?


    With this thought, I proactively walked toward One-Armed Dragon. However, he hadnt appeared in my sightfor quite a long time.Feeling doubtful, I used the Invisible Needle to check. The man had surprisingly disappeared.


    I thought I had missed some ces.I closedmy eyesandcarefully sensed around. Still, I didnt see where he was.


    Is he using something likeaYang Concealing Talisman too? I muttered to myself.


    The Invisible Needle sensed and locatedatargets Yang energy. I could then send my energy to the needle to make it attack the target. But if One-Armed Dragon had concealedhis Yangenergy, the Invisible Needle couldnt find him.


    Still, he didnt consider me his opponent.After gettingthe Ghost w, he had behaughtier.He was sure that he could crush me whenever he wanted. But if he thought that way, why would he hide his Yang energy?


    Ismelled ascheme here. However, I didnt knowwhatwas happening. It made me worried and anxious.


    Suddenly, the Holy Mother Scepter radiated red light. My brows mmed together.The staff would only glowwhen something dangerous was nearby. Just a moment ago, when the ghosts swarmedaroundme, it didntreact.


    As the Holy Mother Scepterradiated a powerfulred light, I became restlessand lookedaround. A flow of fierce Yin energy suddenly came from the illusoryscene. Before I could react, the Ghost wappeared, followedbyck mist.


    I was fortunate that Ihadthe Holy Mother Scepter with me. Itallowed me to dodgethe Ghost w aimed at my neck. It flew past me, brushing my shoulder.


    Then, the flow of Yin energy came again. I knew the Ghost w was flying toward me one more time. I immediatelydropped tothe ground and rolled away. I used the Invisible Needle todeflectthe Ghost w.


    The Ghost w was releasing dark mist, while the Invisible Needle radiated a silver halo.


    Anyway,the Invisible Needle wasnt weaker than the Ghost w. It was me who wasnt as strong as One-Armed Dragon.At firstcontact, I feltas ifahugerock wascedon my chest.


    Soon, the silver halo around the needle thinned out. It looked as if it would be defeated in the next second. The dark mist around the Ghost w expanded further. Bit by bit, it forced the Invisible Needle to back off.


    In theory, if I put all of my energyinto it, I could fight against himfor a while. However, One-Armed Dragon hadnt shown up yet,soI shouldnt usetoo much energy. I found a chance to retrieve the Invisible Needle. I read theBigDipper Sirius Whip to activate the Holy Mother Scepter.


    Having owned this scepter for a long time, the weapon and I had formed a good understanding and connection. It flew up and pushed the Ghost w back. Then, I heard One-Armed Dragon scream, which came from inside the Ghost w!


    I was bewildered,butIsoon got it. He had fused his soul with the Ghost w. It also exined why I couldnt find him earlier.


    Chuyi had to let himself be beaten up to force his soul to leave his body.Yet, One-Armed Dragon could do it aseasilyas flipping his hand. He had sessfully fused with the sword. Once more, it spoke uptothe fact that he was stronger than Chuyi.


    When the Holy Mother Scepter was first activated, itreleaseda strong st of energy. Thatwas how it could attack One-Armed Dragons soul, whichwasattached tothe Ghost w. However, I didnt dare to be reckless.After pulling myself together, I focused on reading the spell.


    After the first strike, the Holy Mother Scepters red light wasnt as strong as before. It started to pull back and forth with the Ghost w.


    Although the saber was still aiming at me, it was slower than before. It seemed One-Armed Dragon couldnt fuse with the swordfora long period.


    He was much stronger than me, anyway. Around five minutester, I felt my energy draining fast.I couldnt provide enough energy to the Holy Mother Scepter, whichmade it weaker.


    The Ghost w was slow, but still, it kept attacking me. I knew that it wasacritical moment in a magic fight like this. If I couldnt attackmy opponent, I would have to step back and lose my advantage. Moreover, I was sure One-Armed Dragon hadnt used all of his power yet.


    While I stillhad someenergy, I decided to make the Invisible Needle attack one more time. One-Armed Dragon knew how fierce the needle was. He immediately controlled the saber to tilt to one side to block the Invisible Needles attack.


    I took the chance to retrieve both the Holy Mother Scepter and the Invisible Needle. I immediately ran awayand headedto the nextillusoryscene. The Invisible Needle moved with my thoughts and enteredthe illusionfirst. A momentter, a picture of thnd on the other sideappeared in my head.


    The Invisible Needle was much faster than One-Armed Dragon. Although he kept running behind me, I was able to ditch himas Iknew the path better.


    I crouchedand cedboth hands on my knees to gasp for my breath. After my heartbeatsloweddown, I headed toward the River of Unmindfulness.


    As One-Armed Dragons soulwas attached tothe Ghost w, he had to use energy continuously. If I lured him to the Bridge of Helplessness, he wouldnt be able to bear such furious Yin energy.My chancewoule then.


    Soon, I reached the Bridge of Helplessness. It was the second time Ihae here, but I was anxious as Chuyi wasnt with me this time.


    Atthis moment, the Holy Mother Scepter radiated its protective red halo one more time. It seemed One-Armed Dragon had arrived. I gritted my teeth and took out theIllusoryMind Bell. I jingledit whilecrossingthe bridge.


    After I took the first stepon the bridge, I heard the ghosts crying and howling from the river underneath. Those ghosts wanted to pull me down to make me their recement. Fortunately, theIllusoryMind Bell attacked them and shooed them away.


    I was frightenedand shooktheIllusory MindBell harder. A momentter, the ghosts knew they couldnt resistthebell. They all sank back into the water. I didnt dare to linger and moved forward.


    The Ghost w came. However, it didnt cross the bridgebut hoveredat one end.Thisproved myguess. I decided to push it further. I faced the saber,then proceeded to scold and insult it.


    One-Armed Dragon, are youalittle turtle who doesnt dare to craneitsneck out to see the world?Are you bold or not? Come hit me!


    Oh, youre scared, arent you?Ill tell you this:Yi Zhangqing couldntwash awayher sins evenwith her death!Im going to butcher you and Yin-Yang Tiger both.You four elders canvisit the Yama King together and borrow a hall to y mahjong. I kept shouting and cursing, trying to enrage him.


    Indeed, the hesitant Ghost w flew fast forwardto stab me.


    Hetook the bait!


    I bit the tip of my tongue and spat blood on the Holy Mother Scepter.After readingthe spell, I controlled the staff to parry with the saber!<hr>


    <strong>Announcement:</strong>


    Regrettably, this will be the final chapter for Otherworldly Merchant. Although we''ve kept it going for this long, sadly it hasn''t experienced the poprity necessary to cover the costs of its trantion to any significant degree. As such, we''re left with the unfortunate situation of needing to ce the novel on indefinite hiatus. Thank you for following it until now, we hope you''ll consider reading some of the other novels we have avable! Previous Chapter

 Chapter 598: Yin Treasure

    Chapter 598: Yin Treasure


    It seemedSenior Shuhad read my mind. He snorted. If you dont believe me, Illshow you.


    Then, he called Feng Yuanzhengand shouted overthe phone. Your wife almost killed Li Mazist night.The guywants to take the surveince video to the police station to report the case! We cant stop him. You should tell your wife to run away!


    He then curtly hung up the call. Afterward, he asked Li Mazi to proceed to the nearest police station. We took a cab and quietly followed him.


    Since Zhang Yans housewas far fromthe station, Li Mazi deliberately walked slowly. Ifthe situation was asSenior Shuhad guessed, Zhang Yan would try to stop Li Mazi once she heard the news.


    Gradually, the taxi driver saw the connection between Li Mazi and us.


    Brother, which drama are you ying? asked the puzzled driver.


    Oh, werehiding behindthe tree and waiting for the rabbit te. I smiled and handed him five hundredrenminbi to indicatethat he should just drive us. We would pay him well.


    We slowly inched along like that for around twenty minutes. Li Mazi had tried his best to walk at his slowest speed.Eventually, he reached the police station.He carefullyturned around to check our car.


    Maybe weguessed wrong? I lowered my voice.


    Impossible. Call Li Mazi and tell him to enter the station, answeredSenior Shu.


    I had to send Li Mazi a textand askedhim to enter the police station. Li Mazi was worried, but he had to go in.


    Right before he had stepped into the entrance of the police station,Senior Shufurrowed his brows. Suddenly, a car crazily crossed the street anddrove towardLi Mazi. It lookedas though the driverwanted to crush Li Mazi to death!


    Hurry, follow that car! I urged the taxi driver as I pulled myself together.


    Li Mazihad always beencautious, so he rushed into the police station as soon as thecar sped toward him.


    The car turned and got on the street to flee astheambush didnt work. The policeman in thewatchtowerat the police station entrance frowned and cursed, butdidnt do anythingelse.


    I didnt bother to check on Li Maziand askedthe driver to chase after that car.


    The car wasquick. The drivers skills were amazingas it weaved between cars. Fortunately, we had gotten ourselves an experienced driver,too.Although the distance between us was lengthening, we werent ditched behind.


    Alongthe way,Senior Shutried to call Feng Yuanzheng. He told us that Zhang Yan had driven the familycar away.


    Senior Shumade a quick decisionand askedFeng Yuanzheng to rummage through Zhang Yans room to see if he could find the iron swallow.Senior Shutold him that if hefoundit, he should go to Li Qiushus house and wait for us there.


    Soon, the driver of the other car noticed us. The car elerated but couldnt ditch us.


    When we came to a rice paddy field outside the city, the car suddenly stopped. I thought that Zhang Yan wanted to run away. However, she didnt get out of the car. It seemed she was waiting for us.


    When wegotthere, we found thatthere was no onein the car!


    Dang, what theheckis going on here?


    The driver curiously followed us. When he sawthe scene, he paled immediatelyand stuttered,B-Brother,what arewedoing here?


    Capturing ghosts!


    The driver was stunned for at least three solid seconds. Then, he crawled into his car and drove away.


    I didnt mind him. Senior Shu, what should we do now?


    Senior Shus eyesdartedas though he was thinking about something. After a long time, he seemed to get it. Did Li Mazi call you?


    No.Is something the matter? I asked skeptically. However, I recognizedthe problembefore I finished my sentence. With Li Mazis nature, even if he didnt follow us, he would call me continuously. But now,even thoughwe had been chasing after this car for quite a long time, he hadntcalled meevenonce!


    Since there was no one in the car, thespiritmust havecontrolled the car.WherewasZhang Yan?


    Senior Shuand I exchanged looks. We screamedin unison. Weve beentricked!


    Zhang Yan hadseen throughour intentions. As such,she hadperformed ay to usher us here so that she would have time to deal with Li Mazi.


    We took another taxi back to town. On the wayback, we kept calling Li Mazi. The linewentthrough, but no one picked up the call.Senior Shushook his head. Theres no need to call anymore. Now, wewait.


    Then, he asked the driver to drive us to Li Qiushus house. When we were almost there, Feng Yuanzheng called me. Ikicked the bedroom door open and found the iron swallow. Im in Li Qiushus house now.


    I was cheered up. With the iron swallow in our hands, Zhang Yan wouldnt dare to do anything to Li Mazi.


    After we arrived at Li Qiushus house,Senior Shureceived the iron swallow and squinted his eyes to study it.


    Iwas sure thatZhang Yandidn''tknow that Feng Yuanzheng had stolen her iron swallow. To ensure that wecould predicthermovements, I asked Feng Yuanzheng to go home fornow. Tomake it look like a robbery, Igothisconsent and punched hima fewtimes.


    After Feng Yuanzheng left,Senior Shugave me the iron swallow to study it. The bird looked real, andits feathers were strangely magnificent. The bird was carved in a flying posture with both of its wings spread wide. It looked so real that if one didnt touch it, he wouldnt know it wasnt a living bird.


    The iron swallow was cold and heavy in my palm. However, except for thatmon feeling, I sensed nothing else. I even used the ox tears, butI stillfound no Yin energy.


    I was puzzledas I admiredthe iron swallow. So,thisisnt an otherworldly item?


    It is an otherworldly item.Senior Shuconfirmed. However, his voice turned worried. Sincewecantsee any traces, its possible that the otherworldly item has merged with thespirit. Together, they have be arareYin treasure.


    I was shocked. Most of the otherworldly items had a wisp of thedeceased''ssoul attachedtoit, like a parasite. As long asthatwisp of the soul was erased, the otherworldly item would be an ordinary antique.


    However, once the soul and the item merged, the otherworldly item would be able to evolve intoalegendary Yin treasure! It was like the harmony between the human soul and body.That was whywe couldnt see any traces of Yin energy. Moreover, if this otherworldly item was controlled, no one could estimate the result!


    However, this sort of otherworldly item had a fatal weakness. If we could destroy the otherworldly item, no matter how strong thespiritwas, it would perish altogether.


    From what we had observed from Zhang Yanst night until now,it looked like sheand the otherworldly item were fused. It exined why she was hurt when I hit thespirit.It was alsowhy we couldnt destroy the iron swallow now. We didnt want to harm Zhang Yan.


    I understood very well that her strange behaviors were caused by thespirits influence. Moreover, this iron swallow must have a profound historybehind it.


    Soon, Feng Yuanzheng called me. Im home, but Zhang Yan isnt home yet.


    I was afraid that if we lingered, Li Mazi would bekilled. Mr. Feng, please call Zhang Yan and tell her that weveraided her room and that wevegot the iron swallow.


    After I made the call,I waited.Senior Shupatted me. His voicegrewangry. You didnt thinkaboutFeng Yuanzhangs well-being! If Zhang Yan doesnt believe him, she will kill him too!


    Impossible! Iwas baffled. With Zhang Yans current character, if she wanted to kill Feng Yuanzheng, she would have done that already. There was no reason for her to wait. Anyway,sinceSenior Shuhad mentionedit,I immediately texted Feng Yuanzhengand askedhim to watch out. If the situation turnedfor the worse, he would have to run for his life.


    We then waited. Soon, Li Mazi called me. I took a deep breath and received the call. However, I didnt speak first.


    Zhang Yans low voice came from the other end of the line. Youre calm, arent you! Well,thispockmark-facedbastardseems useless, anyway. Illget rid of him first!


    As soon as she finished her sentence, I heard Li Maziscreampainfully. Then, hiswretchedvoice echoed through the phone.LittleBrother Zhang, help me! Help me!


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