Chapter 30: The Crimson Dawn
The inn courtyard shimmered under the first light of dawn. Lin Xuan stood with the newfound power of his 5th Layer Qi Transformation. His Blood Crystal Core pulsed, though he lacked the innate ability to form blood armor or weapons. The Celestial Unity Crest on his back glowed faintly.
He summoned Liu Yue and Liu Yang. "Today, we master the Scarlet Flow Phase of the Crimson Blood Crystallization Art," he announced. Lin Xuan demonstrated, his blood qi surging. Liu Yue's Icy Skin merged with the technique, forming icy spikes. Liu Yang's blood qi transformed into a jagged blood sword and a crystalline shield, his unique lineage shining through. Their arts clashed, but Lin Xuan mediated, their qi syncing.
An ominous shadow loomed. Hei Long and a Bloodshade Abyss elder emerged, their 7th Layer Qi Transformation auras a crushing force. "The Scriptures end here, boy!" Hei Long roared. Lin Xuan's Abyssal Lotus Step dodged the spear thrust. Crimson Lance Burst embedded spikes in Hei Long's leg.
Liu Yue's icy spikes pierced the elder's arm. Liu Yang's blood sword slashed Hei Long's side. Mei Ling appeared, her 7th Layer Qi Transformation aura a calming presence. "Bloodshade holds a grudge against Liu Ren," she revealed.
The battle intensified. Lin Xuan's Internal Fracture Wave clashed with Hei Long's qi wave. Liu Yue's icy qi disrupted a second storm. Liu Yang's blood sword struck Hei Long's arm. Lin Xuan's Starlit Void Fist broke the elder's ribs. Energy Devour siphoned their qi, but the 7th Layer power was too much to overcome fully.
Hei Long and the elder retreated. "This isn't over!" Hei Long snarled. Mei Ling nodded to Lin Xuan. "Prepare for their return." Back at the inn, Lin Xuan strengthened his Blood Crystal Core.