The academy retreated swiftly. The numerical advantage of the Baylong Religion, coupled with inside help, compelled the Peacock Sword Sect to abandon Qinghe Academy and retreat to the Government Office to preserve their strength.
The situation in the Government Office was also grim. Of the two Elite Gold Level disciples originally stationed there, one was lured away, his survival currently unknown, while the other was secretly killed and impersonated by a cult follower of the Baylong Religion. Fortunately, the impersonator was a Secret Silver Level cult follower, who was beheaded on the spot when his disguise was exposed.
Xun Cong initially had the upper hand but was tragically ambushed by the Shadow of the Blood Dragon within the Blood Dragon Barrier enveloping Qinghe City, sustaining serious injuries.
