Battle Instinct and Slaughter split apart, both of them panting as they looked at each other, eyes full of joy. I stood before them.
At a time like this, you're still doing these pointless things.
Battle Instinct turned his head and started laughing.
Haven't you already done it? The monster that had awakened has now been suppressed by Yuna Ji. She remembered what she loved, and that's enough.
Is there any way to stop these monsters that Yuna Ji's mind has manifested from the Styx?
I asked bluntly. Battle Instinct shook his head.
There's no way. Anyway, you did great today. We're counting on you, Ethan Zhang.
I looked at Battle Instinct, annoyed and frustrated. At that moment, Slaughter started laughing.
Hurry up, Ethan Zhang! What are you standing around for?
I shot the two of them a glare, clearly irritated. Just then, Battle Instinct called out to me.
Hand over your instinct and leave it here. That way, we can reach you directly if anything happens. Otherwise, all this running around will only get you exposed.
I responded with a soft 'oh' and closed my eyes. Inside me, white and black streams of energy began to swirl and weave together, slowly taking on a human shape. I stared at it—a half-white, half-black version of myself, identical in every way except for its empty, dazed eyes.
Go ahead. I'll take care of things here for Ethan Zhang.
Coexistence spoke, and a black vortex opened behind me. I stepped through and reappeared on the surface of the Styx River. I decided to head for the opposite shore, put some distance between myself and the soldiers, and then fly to the Netherhell Citadel.
After running for a while, I passed the soldiers' encampment and launched myself into the air, speeding eastward.
Half an hour later, the white silhouette of the Netherhell Citadel came into view. Just ten more minutes and I'd reach it.
Suddenly, water exploded upward. I stopped instantly—a flash of green light. Roy Lau appeared, blocking my way.
Where do you think you're going, Ethan Zhang?
Get out of my way.
I said coldly. Roy Lau threw his head back and laughed.
Hold up—Scarlet Howe wants to talk to you.
I don't have time.
Roy Lau clenched his fist, a wicked grin spreading across his face.
Then we'll do this the hard way.
I let out a long sigh.
Fine. Where is she?
After flying with Roy Lau for a while, I spotted a massive pit in the distance. Scarlet Howe was standing beside it, next to an elderly Blue Wraith.
So, have you made up your mind, Ethan Zhang?
My advice: leave this place while you still can.
As soon as I finished, all three Blue Wraiths turned to me, faces heavy with concern—especially Scarlet Howe.
You seem to know something, don't you? If you're willing, tell us.
I shook my head and floated upward.
That's all I'm willing to say. If you don't want to die here, get out now!
Roy Lau and the old ghost looked furious, but Scarlet Howe held them back.
The monsters released yesterday have lost their bodies—it's bizarre! We've tried again and again today, but none of them have any substance. They can't do any real harm. You must know something, Ethan Zhang.
I said nothing and shot upward as fast as I could. I had to reach the Netherhell Citadel. Malice swirled around me as I returned to my true form.
I was nearing Netherhell Citadel. I flew straight for the upper platform, and as soon as the palace came into view, I saw The Engineer and James Grant waiting for me.
You're back, Qingyuan.
I landed, eyes drawn to the laptop in The Engineer's hands.
It's a terabyte drive. Take it—should last you a long time.
I thanked him and took it. James Grant watched me with worry, but said nothing about Yuna Ji.
There's no solution yet, but please trust me, Mr. Grant. I will find a way to help Yuna Ji.
James Grant nodded. I started worrying about Rufina Howard, so I went to check on her. She was living in the three-story building where Yuna Ji used to stay. When I walked in, I saw Rufina Howard sprawled on the couch, her face clouded with frustration.
You're finally back, Qingyuan. My head's about to explode!
As soon as she saw me, Rufina Howard jumped to her feet and rushed over. I let out a helpless sigh.
Just hang in there a little longer. Where's the Netherstone?
I asked, and Rufina Howard nodded.
Don't worry, I've kept it safe.
James Grant must have sensed something at the door and walked in with a gentle smile.
I've been looking after her these past few days. She's fine, Qingyuan.
Because there's a third force at play, everyone foolishly believes the Netherstone is the key here—that once they take it, they'll have control. But what they don't see is that, from the moment they arrived, the monster already had them in its grasp.
Listening to Rufina Howard describe the situation: every morning she goes to the palace and hears the ministers and generals arguing about how to suppress the rebels. Rufina can't decide anything herself, so she lets them handle it. The chaos is now even more scattered than before.
No wonder after that siege, White Plume Outpost fell silent.
Qingyuan, why don't you take charge!
Rufina Howard looked heartbreakingly pitiful, her big eyes blinking at me. I couldn't help but laugh.
Just hang in there, kid. It'll be over soon—trust me.
After those words, a faint unease crept into my heart. There was nothing more I could do—I'd just have to take things one step at a time.
As night fell, I returned to the banks of the Styx River and gathered the troops I'd brought out, preparing to head back to Crimson Plume Fortress.
Some soldiers saw me carrying something and started muttering. I ignored them, wrapped the laptop in a piece of cloth, and said nothing.
This chapter isn't finished yet~.~ Click 'Next Page' to continue reading!