Chapter 37: The Crimson Reckoning
The Misty Forest was dense with mist. Lin Xuan, at 5th Layer Qi Transformation, tracked a Bloodshade-Hei patrol of 6th Layer cultivators. He struck first with Crimson Lance Burst, piercing the lead cultivator's shoulder. The patrol unleashed a qi storm, but Lin Xuan countered with Internal Fracture Wave.
Liu Yue's Icy Skin chilled the air as icy spikes hit a second cultivator. Liu Yang's blood-forged sword slashed the third, their teamwork a fluid dance. The patrol fought back, clashing with Lin Xuan's Vein Fortress Body. He pressed forward with Starlit Void Fist and another Crimson Lance Burst, forcing the patrol to retreat. Lin Xuan planted forged trade notes linking Bloodshade to Ironfang in their robes.
Back at the inn, he refined a pill, his Blood Crystal Core edging closer to the 6th Layer. Liu Yue and Liu Yang joined him, their synergy a silent strength. "The reckoning nears," he said, his voice low.