Within the basin, the tree-form Wood Spirits opened their eyes and looked at Xu Qing. On countless tree leaves were the young Wood Spirits, who looked sorrowful as the rain fell everywhere. They didn’t block Xu Qing’s path. They just allowed him to proceed to the enormous tree in the middle of the basin, carrying the innkeeper with him.2

The temple door there was open. Inside, Xu Qing glanced at the statue but didn’t study it closely.4

The innkeeper led him to the secret tunnel, and they started down the stairs. In the dark tunnel, the innkeeper’s labored breath echoed out. The innkeeper was racing as fast as he could, but it seemed slow to Xu Qing. Xu Qing shoved him forward, adding a burst of speed so that they soon reached the end of the stairs, and the altar above the abyss.2

As soon as Xu Qing was on the altar, he looked around and spotted the cave 3,000 meters away, and the cross-legged figure in white.1

She was a beautiful young woman with a flawless face. She seemed peaceful and innocent, except at this moment, her face was pale and she wasn’t moving. Dried blood was caked on her mouth, chin, and garment. The sight caused Xu Qing’s heart...1