Ascending Towards the Sun

Chapter Fourteen Xue yang's Betrayal

They followed the bamboo pole's noises for less than fifteen minutes. After a few twists and turns, in front of them, the noises abruptly came to a halt. Hua Ying extended his arm, stopping the boys behind him, and walked a few steps forward. A house stood alone in the fog that grew thicker and thicker. Somebody pushed open the door to the house, which silently awaited the entrance of the strangers. Hua Ying felt that something must be inside. It wouldn't be anything dangerous or that could kill them, but something that would tell him things and show them the answers.

Let's go in. There aren't any dangers inside said Hua Ying he raised his foot and stepped into the house. Adjusting to the dark, watch for the threshold. Don't trip. He said as he had expected, one of the boys almost tripped over the tall threshold.

Why is the threshold so high? It is not a temple or anything like that. Complained the boy

It's not a temple, but it's somewhere that also needs a high threshold. Said Hua Ying as his butterflies lit up the area illuminating the entire house.

Master Hua, what are those lights asked Lan Sizhui

Wraiths replied Hua Ying as he looked around.

Straws were scattered on the ground, serving as a carpet. In the frontmost area, there was an altar with Yama or what they thought he looked like and a few fallen stools of different heights. A small, unlit room was on the right side. Other than these, there were also seven or eight black, wooden coffins.

This is the so-called coffin home? Where t

he

dead people are temporarily put? Sneered Jin Ling

That's right. Corpses that aren't claimed by anyone, that would make a house ominous, or that are waiting to be buried are often put into coffin homes. It could be described as a courier station for dead people. The smaller room on the side was probably where the person who guarded the coffin home rests. Said Hua Ying

Mother, why is the threshold to the coffin home so high? Asked Mo Xuanyu

In case any corpses transform. Said Hua Ying

Would making a high threshold be able to prevent corpse transformation? Asked Lan Jingyi

No, it can't prevent corpse transformation, but it can sometimes prevent low-level corpses that have already transformed from going outside. Said Hua Ying as he went to stand in front of the threshold. Say, for example, I'm dead and I just transformed, since I just transformed, my limbs are

stiff

, right? And I can't perform certain actions? Asked Hua Ying

That goes without saying. You can't even walk. You can't step forward, so you can only jump. Said Jin Ling. At this point, he immediately understood.

Correct. I can only jump. Said Hua Ying and with both of his feet together, he tried to jump outside.

However, since the threshold was too high, he failed every attempt. Seeing how his toes bumped into the threshold,

all

the disciples found the scene funny. They started laughing as they imagined a corpse who had just transformed desperately try to jump outside like this but get blocked by the high threshold every time.

Do you see now? Don't laugh. This is the intelligence of common folk. Although it's lame and seems too simple, it's indeed effective against low-level corpses. If a corpse who has transformed is tripped by the threshold, after they fall on the ground, with their stiff body, they won't be able to get back up in a short time. When they're finally able get up, either the sun will rise soon afterwards and the rooster will call, or the person guarding the coffin home would've discovered them. It's actually quite impressive how ordinary people who didn't cultivate could think of such a solution. Said Hua Ying

Although Jin Ling had laughed at the scene as well, now that he heard the explanation, he stifled his laughter at once.

Why did she bring us to a coffin home? Don't tell me that it was because we won't be surrounded by walking corpses if we're here. Where did she

go

herself? Asked Jin Ling

It's likely that we really won't be. We've been standing still for so long already. Has anyone heard any walking corpses? Asked Hua Ying as the boys stood and listened.

They all received a fright as Hua Ying attention turned to the girl who suddenly appeared on top of a coffin.

Because of Hua Ying's insistence, all of them had already seen what the girl looked like. They had even seen how she looked with bleeding eyes and a mouth without a tongue. So, now that they saw her again, nobody felt scared or uneasy. It could be seen that, precisely as what Hua Ying had said, one would become braver and face situations with better composure after being frightened a couple of times. 

The girl didn't have physical form, only a spiritual body surrounded by a soft, dim aura. Both her figure and her face were small. After some grooming, she'd become just the charming girl-next-door. However, from how she sat with her legs apart, she didn't look delicate at all. The bamboo pole that she used as a white cane leaned on the coffin. Her two legs hung down, anxiously swinging her legs. As she sat on the coffin, she used her hand to tap on the lid. She then hopped down and circled around the coffin a few times, making hand gestures at them. This time, the gesture was rather easy to understand. It was the action of "opening" something.

She wants us to open this coffin for her? Asked Jin Ling

Would it be that her body is inside of here? She may want us bury her and bring her peace. Said Lan Sizhui

Lan Zhan should really let you kids out more often, the truth is what is in the coffin said Hua Ying as he went forth and opened the

lid.

He opened the coffin alone and lay the lid onto the ground. Looking down, he saw a corpse. They all gasped it wasn't the corpse of the girl, but somebody else instead.

It was a young man. He had been put into a peaceful position with his hands folding crisscrossed together, beneath of which rested a horsetail whisk. On his body was a cultivational robe as white as snow. The silhouette of the lower half of his face, along with a pale countenance and soft-colored lips, was handsome and refined. The upper half of his face, though, was enfolded in layers and layers of bandages that totaled a width of four fingers. Under the bandages, nothing protruded from where his eyes should've been. The bandages sunk in instead. There weren't eyes, only two empty hollows.

Having heard them open the coffin, the girl stumbled over. She stuck her hands into the coffin and, after some searching around, she finally felt the corpse's face. Stomping her feet, tears of blood trickled down from her blind eyes again.

Everyone

say

hello to my uncle, the real Xiao Xingchen said Hua Ying

solemnly

.

Ghost tears were incapable of dripping down. After the girl cried for a while, she suddenly stood up and ahh-ed at them through her clenched teeth. Appearing both angered and irritated, it was as though she really wanted to express her thoughts.

Should I play Inquiry again? Asked Lan Sizhui

No, it is fine said Hua Ying as he approached the girl. It's possible for us to ask the wrong questions, instead of the questions that she wants us to ask. And, I believe that her reply will be quite complex, quite difficult to interpret. 

Then what shall we do? asked Lan Jingyi

Empathy. Said Hua Ying

All of the major sects specialized in various methods of gaining information and searching for material on ghosts. Empathy was the one that Hua Ying was the best at. His method wasn't as profound as those of the other sects. Everyone could use it. It was simply to ask the ghost to possess his own body. Using his own body as medium, he could invade the spirit's soul and memory, hear what they heard, see what they saw, feel what they felt. 

If the spirit's emotions were abnormally strong, then he'd be affected by their sorrow, their rage, their ecstasy. Thus, it was called Empathy. One could say that this was the most straightforward, most convenient, and most effective method. Of course, it was even more so the most dangerous method. Everyone feared and avoided chances for ghosts to possess their body. On another level, Empathy, though, was playing with fire. The slightest mistake happened, and it would backfire. If the ghost went back on their word and used the opportunity to counterattack, even the best result would be the seizure the Empathizer's body.

That's too dangerous! Using such a dark technique without someone... started Jin Ling but Hua Ying cut him off

I have studied and practiced at the age of ten mistress Jin, I know what I am doing and that is my uncle. Growled Hua Ying after taking a few breaths he calmed down. Apologies but even if my methods are dark and makes many of you feel uneasy, they are still mine and we are running out of time, we still have to return to Lan Zhan. Jin ling you can be supervisor he said with a smile.

Me? You want a young mast-... You want me to supervise you while you do something like this? Asked Jin ling shocked

If Young Master Jin does not want to do it, I can do it as well. Said Lan Sizhui

Jin Ling, did you bring the Jiang Sect's silver bell? Asked Hua Ying

What? Why are you looking at the bell asked Jin Ling

 as he handed the clarity bell over to Hua Ying

It's nothing. He passed the bell to Lan SiZhui,

the

silver bell of the Jiang Sect can steady one's focus and calm one's mind. Use this as the code. Said Hua Ying as he turned to the girl.

Actually, I'll do it! Said Jin ling as he snatched the bell back.

You did not want to do it, and now you do want to do it. With such a hot-and-cold temper, are you a young mistress? Groaned Lan Jingyi

Please, come in. Said Hua Ying not waiting for the conversation to continue.

The girl wiped her eyes and her face and crashed into his body. Her entire soul was slammed inside. Leaning against the coffin, Hua Ying slowly slid to the ground. The boys hurried to drag over a pile of straw for him to sit on. Jin Ling clutched the bell tightly.

After a few dizzying moments, the soul that had been light felt as though it landed on firm ground. As the girl opened her eyes, Hua Ying opened his eyes as well. He saw a clear landscape with bright colors.

He could see! Mo Xuanyu was right, she was born with the defect and wasn't blind as everyone had thought.

Sitting by a brook, the girl groomed herself in front of the water. Although her clothes were tattered, she still needed the most basic level of cleanliness. Tapping a tempo with the tip of her foot, she hummed as she fixed her hair, as though she wasn't satisfied no matter how she fixed it. Hua Ying could feel a thin, wooden hairpin poking around in her hair. Suddenly, she looked down at her reflection in the water. Hua Ying's viewpoint lowered as well. A young maiden with an oval face and a sharp chin and her pupilless was mirrored against the water of the brook. After the girl fastened her hair, she dusted her clothes and leaped up. Grabbing the bamboo pole by her feet, she skipped along the road. She swung her pole as she walked, ceaselessly swatting at the branches above her head, knocking at the rocks that she passed, scaring the grasshoppers within the bushes. As soon as somebody approached from afar, she immediately stopped skipping. Properly holding onto her pole, she knocked on the ground as she slowly wandered forward, appearing quite wary. The group that came was a few villager women. Seeing her situation, they all moved out of her way and whispered to one another.

The girl nodded with hurry, thank you, thank you, she replied.

One of the women seemed as though she felt sorry for her. Lifting the white cloth that covered her basket, she took out a steamed bun and gave it to her, Sister, be careful. Are you hungry? Take this and eat it. Said the sympathetic woman.

The girl replied thankfully, how can I take it? I-I...

The woman shoved the bun into her hand, Take it! Smiled the woman

She finally took it, Sister, A-Qing is very thankful of you! She replied

So, the girl's name was A-Qing.

Bidding the villager women farewell, A-Qing finished the bun in just a few bites, and continued to skip along, hopping three inches high each time. Skipping with her inside of her body, Hua Ying's head spun from dizziness.

He thought to himself, the maiden is so full of energy. Now I understand. She's pretending to be blind. She was probably born with those white eyes.

Although she looks blind, she can actually see, so she's pretending to be blind with her eyes, tricking people into feeling sorry for her. Being a girl who roamed the streets alone, if she pretended to be blind, people would naturally think that she really couldn't see and lower their guard. However, in reality, she could see everything. This allowed her to adjust according to the circumstances and was indeed a clever method of self-protection.

Despite this, A-Qing's soul was truly blind, which meant that she did lose her sight before she died. Then, how did she go from pretending to be blind to being actually blind? Was it that she saw things she shouldn't have seen?

When nobody was around, A-Qing skipped along; when people were around, A-Qing shrunk down and pretended to be blind. Pausing now and then, she arrived at a marketplace. Since it was bustling with people, of course she'd show off her skills. Performing to the fullest, she knocked on the ground with her bamboo pole, her act as believable as ever. Slowly walking through the crowd, she suddenly ran into a middle-aged man dressed in bright, expensive-looking clothes. She pretended as though she was frightened,

I'm sorry, I'm sorry! I can't see. I'm sorry! She couldn't, see? She clearly rushed right into the man!

Having collided with someone, the man turned angrily around, as if he wanted to curse at whoever was in front of him. However, seeing that it was not only a blind person, but also a young maiden who looked rather pretty, if he slapped her face in the streets, he'd definitely be criticized by the passerby. He could only scold, watch where you're going!

A-Qing continued to apologize. As he was about to leave, he still wasn't satisfied, and squeezed A-Qing's buttocks with his right hand. Since they felt the same things, it was as though the squeeze landed on Hua Ying's body. Instantaneously, Hua Ying felt as if a blanket of goosebumps climbed over his heart. He wanted no less than to slam the man into the ground. A-Qing shrunk herself into a ball as if she was deeply frightened. However, after the man was some distance away, she tapped her way into an obscure alleyway, and immediately spat on the ground. Fishing out a money pouch, she poured the contents out, counted them, then spat again,

those lousy men, all of them are like this. Dressed as if they really are something, but they don't have any coins. You can't even shake a penny out of them.

Hua Ying was halfway between frowning and bursting into laughter. A-Qing was still young, possibly younger than fifteen-years-old, but she was already quite adept at cursing, and even more adept at snatching people's money.

He reminisced, if you stole my money, you wouldn't have cursed in such a way. I would've caught you and gave you enough so you wouldn't have to do this everyday

A-Qing had already found her next target. Acting as a blind person, she walked out of the alleyway, wandered on the streets for a while, and did the same thing. With an "ah", she drove herself into a white-robed cultivator, then apologized,

I'm sorry, I'm sorry! I can't see. I'm sorry!

Hua Ying silently shook his head. This young beauty didn't even change her lines! 

Having been jolted by her, the person turned around. He helped her steady herself first,

I'm fine. Maiden, you can't see either.

The person was fairly young. His cultivation robes were simple yet clean, and he carried a sword wrapped in white cloth on his back. The lower half of his face was quite handsome, although somewhat emaciated. On the other hand, the upper half of his face was covered with bandages about four fingers wide. A soft tinge of blood vaguely seeped from beneath the bandages.

A-Qing seemed to have paused shortly before answering, Y-yes.

Then, walk a bit slower. Don't be so fast. You wouldn't want to bump into someone again, would you? Said Xiao XingChen He didn't mention at all that he himself couldn't see either. Holding A-Qing's hand, he led her to the side of the road, Walk here. There are less people. He spoke Both his words and his actions were gentle yet careful. A-Qing reached out with hesitation, but in the end, she still snatched away the money pouch that hung by his waist.

Brother, A-Qing is very thankful of you! Said A-Qing

Xiao XingChen, Not Brother. It's

Taoist

.

A-Qing blinked, But you're both Taoist and Brother.

Then, since you call me Brother, why don't you give back Brother's pouch? Said Xiao XingChen smiling

No matter how quick a street-roamer like A-Qing was, they wouldn't be able to fool the senses of a cultivator. Laughed Hua Ying

 Startled, she took her pole and sprinted as fast as she could. Yet, not having run very far, Xiao XingChen grabbed the back of her collar with one hand and brought her back.

As I've already said, you shouldn't run so fast. What if you bump into someone again? Asked Xiao XingChen

A-Qing struggled to escape his grasp. With a twitch of her lips, her upper teeth bit down on her lower lip. 

Hua Ying understood at once. Oh no, she's going to shout 'molester'!

Suddenly, a middle-aged man hurried out of a street corner. As he saw A-Qing, his

eyeslit

up at once. He stormed over as he cursed,

You little bitch. I've finally caught you. Give back my money!

Simply cursing wasn't enough to relieve his anger. With a wave of his arm, his hand swung toward her face. A-Qing immediately looked down and closed her eyes. Yet, before the slap landed on her cheek, it was stopped halfway through.

Sir, please calm down for a moment. It's quite an impolite way to treat a young maiden, don't you think? Said Xiao XingChen

A-Qing secretly peeked from behind her eyelids. The middle-aged man clearly used a lot of strength, yet his hand was held by Xiao XingChen's in a seemingly light way, unable to move an inch. Although he was nervous, he accused stubbornly,

what is a blind guy like you doing here? Saving the damsel in distress? So, the little bitch is your lover? Did you know that she's a thief? She stole my money! If you protect her, then you're also a thief!

With him in one hand and A-Qing in the other.

Give the man his money back. Said Xiao XingChen

A-Qing fumbled out the small amount of money and passed it over. Xiao XingChen let go of the man, who counted the money. Everything was still there. Glancing at the blind cultivator again, the man knew that he'd be difficult to deal with, so he trudged awkwardly away.

You really

are

too bold. How do you dare steal things even when you're blind? Said Xiao XingChen

He touched me! He pinched my butt, and it hurt so much, so what's wrong with me taking some of his money? There's only so little inside of such a big pouch, and he's being a bully about it. He's going to die flat broke! Said A-Qing

You clearly had stealing intentions and bumped into him first, but now you're saying it like he wronged you first. What a fraud argument. Laughed Hua Ying

Such being the case, you really should've known better than to provoke him. Today, if nobody was here, the matter wouldn't have been solved with a mere slap. Maiden, take care. Said Xaio XingChen After he finished, he turned to the opposite direction and left. 

Hua Ying observed, He didn't ask for his money pouch back. This uncle of mine is gentle towards women as well.

Holding the money pouch that she stole, A-Qing stood and stared blankly for a few seconds. Suddenly, she stuffed it into her lapel, chased over with her pole, and crashed right onto Xiao XingChen's back. Xiao XingChen could only help steady her again, Is there anything else? He asked

I still have your money pouch! Said A-Qing

It's yours now. There's not much inside, anyways. Before you spend all of it, be sure not to steal anything else. Said Xiao XingChen

I heard the filthy man curse. So, you're blind too? Asked A-

Qing

Hearing the second sentence, Xiao XingChen's expression faltered at once. His smile disappeared as well. The bold, innocent remarks of children were often the cruelest. Children didn't know anything. Precisely because they didn't know anything, they hurt people's feelings in the most direct of ways. Under the bandages wrapped around Xiao XingChen's eyes, a smear of red grew darker and darker, almost seeping through the cloth. His raised his hand for it to hover over his eyes, while his arm trembled slightly. The pain and injury that came with gouging out one's eyes were not that easy to heal. However, A-Qing simply thought that he was feeling dizzy.

A-Qing beamed, then let me follow you! She spoke

Why would you want to follow me? To become a cultivator? Asked Xiao XingChen smiling

You're tall and blind, and I'm small and blind. If we travel together, we can care for each other. My parents are gone and there's nowhere I can stay. I'll follow anyone to anywhere. Said A-Qing. Being as clever as she was, she was afraid that Xiao XingChen would refuse her, so she took advantage of his agreeable nature and threatened,

I spend money really quickly. If you refuse to take me with you, the money will be gone at once, and I'll have to go steal and trick people again. And then somebody will slap me hard and I'll fall down and I won't even be able to find my way. Poor me! She pouted

Someone as clever as you should be able to fool others so that they can't find their way. Who in the world can do the same to you? Laughed Xiao XingChen

After watching for a while, Hua Ying found something interesting. Now that he had seen Xiao XingChen himself, he discovered that, in comparison to the real one, Xue Yang's imitation really was precise! Aside from his face, all of the details were true to the real Xiao XingChen. If someone told him so, he could've even believed that Xiao XingChen had possessed Xue Yang's body.

Pleading, pestering, and pretending that she was pitiful, A-Qing clung to Xiao XingChen the whole way. Xiao XingChen warned her quite a couple of times that it'd be dangerous if she followed him, but A-Qing never listened. She wasn't even scared after Xiao XingChen exorcised an-old-cattle that had gained consciousness when they passed a certain village. She still kept on calling him "brother" and stuck to him as if she was syrup, never going more than three meters away from him. As she followed him, possibly deciding that A-Qing was quick-witted, brave, and never a hindrance all the while being a young, blind maiden with nowhere to go, Xiao XingChen finally gave tacit permission to her staying with him.

At the moment, Xiao XingChen and A-Qing were walking along a long, flat road with weeds and grasses of waist height growing on both sides of it. Suddenly, A-Qing cried out with an ah.

Xiao XingChen immediately asked, What's wrong?

Ugh. Nothing. My ankle twisted. Said A-Qing

A-Qing's exclamation was because as she glanced around, she suddenly saw a black figure lying among the bushes of weeds. Although she didn't know whether he was dead or alive, most likely thinking that it'd be a drag either way, she obviously didn't want Xiao XingChen to find the person.

Let's go, let's go. Let's rest a bit at that whatever city that's ahead. I'm so tired! Said A-Qing quickly

Didn't you twist your ankle? Do you want me to carry you? Asked Xiao XingChen

A-Qing was ecstatic, knocking loudly on the ground with her bamboo pole. Yes, yes, yes! Smiling, Xiao XingChen turned around with his back to her and kneeled down with one leg. Just as A-Qing was about to throw herself over, Xiao XingChen suddenly stopped her. With a serious expression, he stood up, something smells like blood. A-Qing could also smell a faint hint of blood. Amid the night wind, it was indeed discernible at times. 

Really? Why can't I smell it? Are any families around the area killing livestock? Asked A-Qing

Just as she finished speaking, as if Heaven wanted to go against her wishes, the person in the bushes coughed. Even though the sound was almost imperceptible, it couldn't escape Xiao XingChen's ears. He immediately found the direction, stepped into the bushes, and squatted down beside the person. Due to how Xiao XingChen discovered the person anyway, A-Qing stomped on the ground, then pretended to find her way over.

What happened? Asked A-Qing

Someone is lying here. Said Xiao XingChen as he felt for the person's pulse

So that's why the smell of blood is so strong. Are they dead? Should we make a ditch and bury them? Asked A-Qing

Of course, a dead person was less of a hassle than a living one, so A-Qing couldn't wait for the person to die.

Not yet. He's just badly injured. Said Xiao XingChen

After giving it some thought, he gently carried the person onto his back. Seeing that a filthy, bloodstained man took the position where she would've been and that Xiao XingChen wouldn't be able to carry her to the city anymore, A-Qing pouted and poked a few deep holes on the ground with her pole. Yet, she knew that Xiao XingChen wouldn't not help the person, so complaining wouldn't work anyway. They went back onto the road and continued walking.

The more they walked, the stronger Hua Ying's sense of familiarity grew. He suddenly recalled, isn't this the road that Lan Zhan and I used to get to Yi City?

Sure enough, Yi City could be seen looming at the end of the road. As of this time, the city gates weren't as run-down. The tower was still in fair condition and there weren't any scribbles on the walls. Entering the city, the fog was somewhat denser, but compared to the unnatural density in later times, it was not a hindrance at all. On the sides of the road, lights and even human conversations leaked from the doors and windows of houses. Although it was an obscure place, it had some liveliness to it. Carrying a person with severe injuries and drenched in blood on his back, Xiao XingChen definitely knew that no shops would let someone like him inside. Thus, he didn't search for places to rest, but instead directly asked a night watchman who walked by if there were any idle coffin homes in the city.

There's one over there. The guy who guarded it passed away last month. There's currently nobody there. Said the watchman, seeing that Xiao XingChen was blind and might have difficulties finding the way, he decided to lead them over. This was precisely the coffin home where Xiao XingChen's corpse was put after he had died. They thanked the watchman, and Xiao XingChen carried the injured person into the chamber on the right. The room wasn't large but wasn't too small either. Including a low bed by the wall, the room had all of the necessities. He carefully laid the person onto the bed. Taking an elixir from his

qiankun

pouch, he pushed it through the person's clenched teeth. A-Qing felt around in the room for a while before she beamed.

There are so many things here! Here's a basin! Exclaimed A-Qing

Is there a stove? Asked Xiao XingChen

There is! Said A-Qing excitedly

Why don't you try to boil some water? Be careful and don't hurt yourself. Asked Xiao XingChen

A-Qing pouted some more and got to work. Xiao XingChen touched the person's forehead, then took out another elixir and fed it to him. Hua Ying really wanted to take a good look at the person's face, but A-Qing was clearly not interested in him. She was rather annoyed and refused to spare him a single glimpse. After the water had been boiled, Xiao XingChen slowly wiped off the blood on his face. Out of curiosity, A-Qing gave him a glance, and made a soundless huh. Now that the person's face had been cleaned, she could see that his looks were actually quite decent.

As Hua Ying saw the face, his heart immediately sunk. Just as he had expected, it was Xue Yang. He sighed in silence, Enemies really can't avoid each other, can they? Xiao XingChen, you really are... hopelessly unlucky.

At this point in time, with a childish charm, Xue Yang looked nothing more than a boy. However, who could've known that a boy like him whose canine teeth showed when he smiled was a maniac who wiped out entire clans. Counting the years, this was probably after Jin

GuangYao

became the Chief Cultivator. In such a difficult situation, Xue Yang had probably just escaped Jin

GuangYao's

"elimination". Since he couldn't kill him, Jin

GuangYao

naturally didn't want to let anything out. Or, maybe because he believed that he wouldn't be able to live, he told the public that Xue Yang had already been eliminated. However, villains always tended to outlast heroes. On the brink of dying, he was saved by his old rival Xiao XingChen. It was unfortunate that Xiao XingChen wasn't cautious to the point of feeling and examining his face. By accident, he had saved his enemy, the one who made his life this way. Although A-Qing could see, since she wasn't a cultivator, she didn't know of Xue Yang, much less the immense hatred between the two of them. She didn't even know what Xiao XingChen's name was...

Hua Ying sighed again. Xiao XingChen couldn't be any unluckier. It was as though all of the ominous energy in this world had tainted him. Going through the memories Hua Ying saw how Xue Yang became part of his uncle's life, how he made his uncle kill innocents by corpse poisoning for his uncle's sword could sense evil beings even if he was blind, he could still do what he was trained to do, Hua Ying felt his heart ache for not only his uncle but A-Qing who had to endure Xue Yand Bullying and how he kept testing her blindness thankfully she was a brilliant actress otherwise Xue Yang would've put an end to her life.

A-Qing was indeed clever. She also figured that Xue Yang probably didn't have good intentions. After the two left, she jumped out of the coffin and followed them from afar. The distance between them was a bit too far, since she was scared that she'd be discovered, and she ended up losing sight of them. Luckily, when Xiao XingChen was washing the vegetables earlier, he mentioned that a small village nearby was plagued by walking corpses and told the two of them to refrain from running around. A-Qing could still remember the place. Rushing over, she arrived soon afterward. She slipped into a dog hole on the bottom of the village's fence, hid behind one of the houses, and sneakily peeked out.

Hua Ying wasn't sure if A-Qing understood what was happening, but he felt a sudden chill within his heart. With his hands folded in front of him, Xue Yang stood on the side of the road, smiling with his head tilted. Xiao XingChen stood on the opposite side. Calmly unsheathing his sword, Shuanghua flashed its silver sword glare before it pierced through a villager's heart. The villager was still alive. If she were another girl of the same age, she would've started screaming immediately. However, since A-Qing had feigned being blind for so many years, a lot of people had put down their guard in front of her, believing that she couldn't see. She was used to seeing the more sickening sides of people, which had hardened her heart. She somehow managed to not make a sound.

Even so, Hua Ying could feel the numbing stiffness that travelled upward from the bottom of her legs. Standing amid numerous villagers' corpses that lay scattered on the ground, Xiao XingChen sheathed his sword and spoke in a solemn voice, how can it be that there isn't a single living person inside this village? That all of them are walking corpses?

Xue Yang smiled, but the voice that came out of his mouth sounded extremely confused, even somewhat pained, yeah. Good thing that your sword points at corpse energy on its own. Or else, with just the two of us, it would've been very difficult to break through.

Let's examine the village again. If there really isn't anyone left, then let's burn these corpses as soon as possible. Said Xiao XingChen

After they walked side-by-side into the distance, some strength finally returned to A-Qing's legs. She sneaked out from behind the house to where the piles of corpses were and glanced around on the ground. Hua Ying's viewpoint oscillated as well. All of these villagers were killed by sharp, clean pierces through the heart, done by Xiao XingChen's sword. Suddenly, Hua Ying saw a few familiar faces.

The memories flashed again to where Xiao Xingchen told the story of the three that had left his grandmother's mountain and is friend who he had dearly missed. Song Lan, from Hua Ying experience his uncle Xiao XingChen shared more than a friendship with each other yet they kept it secret from the world. The memories slowed to where A-Qing had met Song Lan and Hua Ying temper was about to spiral out of control.

One day, A-Qing was playing on the streets again, pretending to be blind. She had been playing the game for her whole life and hadn't grown tired of it even once. As she was knocking her bamboo pole while walking around, suddenly, a voice came from behind her.

Young Maiden, if your eyes can't see, it's best if you don't run so fast. It was the voice of a young man, which sounded rather cold. A-Qing turned around to see a tall cultivator who wore black robes, standing a few meters away from her. A sword was carried behind his back while a horsetail whisk was in his arm. With an upright posture and drifting sleeves, he had a proud, aloof air to him. This man just happened to be Song Lan. A-Qing tilted her head. Song Lan had already walked over. Putting his whisk over A-Qing's shoulder, he led her to the side.

There are less people on the side of the road. Said Song Lan

Hua Ying commented. They really alike, aren't they?  no wonder they were drawn to each other in such a way.

A-Qing is very thankful of

Taoist

! Said A-Qing

Song Lan took his whisk back and held it in his arms again. He glanced at her. Don't play around too much. The dark energy here is quite strong. In the future, be careful not to linger outside. Said Song Lan

Okay! Said A-Qing

Song Lan nodded and continued walking, but A-Qing couldn't help but turn around to watch him. After he walked for a while, he stopped a passerby, Excuse me. Has anyone seen a blind cultivator who carries a sword in the area? Asked Song Lan

At once, A-Qing started to listen carefully. The passerby replied, I'm not too sure. Taoist, you can try asking the people over there. Said the passerby

Thank you. Replied Song Lan

A-Qing tapped her way over, Taoist, why are you searching for the other Taoist? Asked A-Qing

Song Lan immediately turned around, have you seen him? He asked surprised

Maybe I have, but maybe I haven't. Said A-Qing

How can I make it so that you've seen him? Replied Song Lan

If you answer a few questions for me, then maybe I'll remember that I have. Are you a friend of the Taoist? Asked A-Qing

Song Lan hesitated. He only replied after a few moments, ... Yes, in a way.

A-Qing also felt that his answer was somewhat reluctant. Her suspicion grew again. Do you really know him? How tall is he? Is he pretty or ugly? What is his sword like?

His height is similar to mine. His appearance is rather fine and wears white. His sword is carved with patterns of frost. Replied Song Lan immediately

Seeing that he answered everything correctly and didn't look like a bad guy, A-Qing responded, I know where he is. Taoist, follow me!

Song Lan had already been travelling in search for his close friend for a few years, and had been disappointed countless times. Now that he finally heard news of him, he couldn't even believe his ears. He managed with effort. Thank... Thank you.

A-Qing led him until they were near the coffin home, yet Song Lan stopped in his tracks. What's wrong? Aren't you going to go over? Asked A-Qing

For some reason, Song Lan's face was extremely pale. He stared at the door of the coffin home, as if he would rush inside if he could, but was too scared to do so. The aloof look that he had was completely gone. Just as he made up his mind and was about to go in, a lackadaisical figure strolled inside before he could. As he saw who the figure was, Song Lan's face instantly went from pale to ashen! A series of laughter came from the coffin home.

The annoying one is back. Snorted A-Qing

Who is he? Why is he here? Asked Song Lan

He's a bastard. He never told us his name, so who knows who he is? He was saved by Taoist. Now he sticks to Taoist all the time. He's such a pain! Whined A-Qing

Song Lan's face switched between being surprised and exasperated. After a moment, he spoke, Be quiet! A-Qing was scared by his expression and obeyed. The two of them silently approached the coffin home, one standing beside the window and the other hiding beneath it. In the coffin home.

whose turn is it today? Asked Xiao XingChen

The instant he heard the voice, Song Lan's hands trembled so much that A-Qing could clearly see it.

What if, from now on, we don't take turns anymore? Let's change it up. Said Xua Yang

You only spoke up because it's your turn today, didn't you? How do you want to change it? Asked Xiao Xingchen

Here. There are two sticks. If you pick the longer one, you don't have to go; if you pick the shorter one, then you'll have to go. What do you think? Asked Xue Yang. Yours is short. I win. You're going! He said laughing

Alright. I'll go. Said Xiao Xingchen

Before he walked very far, Xue Yang spoke up, Come back. I'll go.

Why are you willing to go, now? Asked Xiao XingChen

Xue Yang stood up as well, Are you an idiot? I tricked you. I picked the shorter one. It's just that I've been hiding the longest stick behind me, so whichever one you pick, I can take out a longer one. I'm just exploiting the fact that you can't see. Said Xue Yang smiling. He laughed at Xiao XingChen some more and sauntered out, holding a basket in his hand. A-Qing looked up at Song Lan, whose entire body was shaking. She didn't understand why he was so angry. Song Lan gestured for her to be quiet. Only after the two walked some distance away did Song Lan start asking A-Qing about the details, this man, when did Xing... when did the Taoist save him? He asked

His tone was solemn. A-Qing understood that the situation was no joke, and she answered him seriously as well,

Its

been a long time, a couple of years. She replied

The Taoist never found out who he is? Asked Song Lan

No. Replied A-Qing

What has he done during his stay with the Taoist? Asked Song Lan

Joke around, bully me, scare me, and... Oh, he also night-hunts with Taoist! Said A-Qing

Song Lan frowned, thinking that Xue Yang probably wouldn't be so nice, Night-hunt? Night-hunt what things? Do you know? Asked Song Lan

A-Qing didn't dare to be careless. After some thought, she replied, they used to often night-hunt walking corpses, sometime in the past. Now it's usually ghosts, animals that behave weirdly, and so on.

As he inquired into the matter, Song Lan also felt that something was strange, but he couldn't find any clues.

Is the Taoist close with him? Asked Song

Lan

Although she didn't want to admit it, A-Qing still confessed, I think that Taoist is really unhappy when he's alone, he misses the person he calls his friend, but the way he speaks of this person is more than friends I wonder if they even had a chance to confess... He's finally got someone who cultivates as well... So, I think he sort of likes listening to the bastard tell jokes. Said A-Qing

Song Lan's face was clouded with both rage and devastation. Amid the confusion, only one thing was for certain: He definitely couldn't tell Xiao XingChen about this!

Don't tell the Taoist anything unnecessary. Don't tell him about me just yet either please said Song Lan

As soon as he finished, he went toward the direction that Xue Yang left in. A-Qing asked, Taoist, are you going to beat up that bastard? Asked A-Qing

Song Lan was already far away from her. Xue Yang went outside holding the vegetable basket. A-Qing knew which path he'd use if he was going to buy vegetables. Taking a shortcut, she sprinted through a part of a forest, her heart beating faster than ever. After chasing for a while, she finally saw Xue Yang's figure forward of her. He held a basket in one hand, which was filled with cabbages, carrots, steamed buns, and other food. He walked as he yawned lazily. He had probably finished shopping. A-Qing had always been good at hiding and eavesdropping. She snuck into a bush beside the forest, moving along with him. Suddenly, Song Lan's cold voice came from in front of her, Xue Yang. As if someone had poured a bucket of freezing water over his face, or if someone had slapped him awake from a deep sleep, Xue Yang's expression became scary at once. Song Lan came out from behind a tree. His sword had already been unsheathed. He held it in his hand, with the tip pointing to the ground.

Xue Yang pretended to be surprised. Oh, isn't this Taoist Song? What a rare guest. You here to get a free meal? Song Lan lunged with his sword. Xue Yang immediately shook

Jiangzai

out of his sleeves, blocked the attack, and backed a few steps. He put the basket under a tree, you damn cultivator. For once I actually wanted to shop for food, and here you fucking are, spoiling my mood! Growled Xue Yang

In a fury, Song Lan's attacks were aiming for fatality. He shouted in a low voice, just what in the world are you scheming?! Why have you spent so long near Xiao XingChen?!

Xue Yang laughed. And I was wondering why Taoist Song still had business with me.

So,

you want to ask me about this.?

Song Lan raged. Tell me! Why would a scum like you be so nice as to help him night-hunt?!

The wind of the sword brushed against his face. A cut appeared on Xue Yang's cheek, but he wasn't surprised at all, how does Taoist Song understand me so much?

One of the two fought with skills learned from a proper sect, while the other fought with experience from committing crimes. It was obvious that Song Lan was more skilled than Xue Yang. His pierced through Xue Yang's arm, Tell me! If not for how the matter was so alarming that Song Lan must know what was going on, the sword might have pierced through the neck instead of the arm. Although Xue Yang was injured, his expression didn't change at all, "You really want to hear it? I'm afraid that you might go mad. Some things shouldn't be made known.

Song Lan's voice was colder than ever, Xue Yang, my patience is running out!

With a clang, Xue Yang blocked an attack that was aimed at his eyes. He replied, Fine, if you're so keen on hearing it. Do you know what that best friend of yours did? He killed a lot of walking corpses. He exercised for the greater good, without asking for anything in return. It's quite touching, really. Although he dug his eyes out for you and became blind, the good thing was that Shuanghua can point out corpse energy for him. What's even better? I discovered that if you cut off the tongues of people under corpse poisoning and made it so that they couldn't speak, Shuanghua couldn't tell apart living and dead corpses either, so...

He explained it in an extremely detailed way. Both Song Lan's arm and sword were trembling, You monster... You vile monster...

Taoist Song, sometimes I feel like that polite people like you are really at a disadvantage when they're cursing others, because it's always those few words being repeated over and over again. There's absolutely no power or creativity at all. I haven't used these two words to call others ever since I was seven. sneered Xue Yang

Song Lan was in a towering rage. He attacked again, this time aiming at his throat, you imposed upon his blindness and fooled him so terribly!

The attack was both fast and fatal. Xue Yang managed to dodge it, but it pierced his shoulder nonetheless. As if he couldn't feel anything, he didn't even flinch, his blindness? Taoist Song, have you forgotten who he dug out his own eyes and became blind for?

Hearing this, both Song Lan's face and movements stiffened.

Xue Yang continued, what position are you in to blame me? A friend of his? Are you shameless enough to say that you're his friend? Taoist Song, do I need to remind you of what you said to Xiao XingChen after I wiped out the

Baixue

Temple? When he worried about you and wanted to help you, what sort of expression did you face him with? What sort of things did you say?

Song Lan was in a terrible state of mind, I! At the time, I...

Ah Song Lan you stupid self-sacrificing fool. What did you say to uncle to push him away? Why would you follow in my

footsteps

? Wondered Hua Ying

Xue Yang cut him short, At the time, you were upset? You were pained? You were grieving? You didn't know where to vent your anger? And that was why you took it out on him? To be fair, the reason why I wiped out your temple was precisely because of him. It's quite understandable why you took it out on him. In fact, it was exactly what I wanted. Every sentence was a critical strike! Both Xue Yang's speech and attacks quickened. His movements becoming calmer and more difficult to defend, he gradually gained the upper hand, yet Song Lan didn't notice this at all. Xue Yang added, Well! Who was the one who said 'from now on, we won't need to meet again? Wasn't it you, Taoist Song? He listened to your request and disappeared after he dug out his eyes for you, but why have you come to him now? Isn't this making it a bit too difficult? Taoist Xiao XingChen, don't you agree? Hearing this, Song Lan wavered. His attacks hesitated as well!

Being fooled by such a simple trick, it could be seen that Song Lan's mind and movements were really disrupted by Xue Yang. Taking advantage of such a perfect chance, with a wave of his hand, corpse-poisoning powder rained from above. Nobody had seen this sort of carefully refined corpse-poisoning powder before, including Song Lan. He accidentally breathed in quite a large amount. Immediately knowing that he was in a bad situation, Song Lan started to cough. However, Xue Yang's

Jiangzai

had long been waiting. With a cold flash of the sword's tip, it shot straight into his mouth! Instantly, Hua Ying's field of vision turned into complete darkness. A-Qing was so scared that she closed her eyes. But he knew already. 

This was when Song Lan's tongue had been cut off by

Jiangzai

. The sounds were terrifying. A-Qing's eyes felt warm, but she clenched her teeth tightly, not making a single sound. Her eyes blinked open again. Song Lan managed to keep standing, leaning on his sword. With his other hand, he covered his mouth. Blood seeped incessantly from between his fingers. With his tongue cut off by Xue Yang's sudden attack, Song Lan was under so much agony that he couldn't even walk. Yet, he still pulled his sword from the ground and staggered toward Xue Yang. Xue Yang dodged the attack easily. A bizarre smile was on his face.

The next moment, Hua Ying saw why he smiled in such a way.

Shuanghua's silver glare pierced into Song Lan's chest, then came out from his back. Song Lan looked down at Shuanghua's blade, which penetrated his heart, then slowly looked up again. He saw Xiao XingChen, who calmly held the sword. Hua Ying cried all he could do was cry.

Xiao XingChen wasn't at all aware of the situation. Are you there?

Song Lan moved his lips soundlessly.

Xue Yang grinned, I am. Why are you here?

Xiao XingChen pulled out Shuanghua and returned it to its sheath, Shuanghua behaved strangely. I followed its guidance and came to see. We haven't seen any walking corpses in this area for quite a while, not to mention one that roamed alone. Did it come here from somewhere else?

Slowly, Song Lan fell to his knees before Xiao XingChen.

Xue Yang glanced down at him. Probably. It's making awful noises.

At such a time, if Song Lan passed his sword to Xiao XingChen's hands, Xiao XingChen would've immediately known who he was. He'd be able to recognize the sword of his closest friend with just a touch. Yet, Song Lan could no longer do so. Would he pass the sword to Xiao XingChen, tell him who he had just killed with his own hands? This was precisely what Xue Yang was aiming for, thus he had nothing to fear. He turned to Xiao

XingChen,

Let's go. It's time to cook dinner. I'm hungry already.

Have you bought the vegetables? Asked Xiao XingChen

Yep. I ran into this thing on my way back. What a bad day. Said Xue Yang

Xiao XingChen left first. Xue Yang patted the wounds on his shoulder and arm. He picked up the basket again and, as he passed Song Lan, he smiled and looked down, No food for you. After Xue Yang was long gone and had probably reached the coffin home with Xiao XingChen already, A-Qing finally stood up from behind the bush. 

Her legs had both numbed after squatting for so long. Holding her pole, she limped and wobbled to Song Lan, whose kneeling corpse had already stiffened. Song Lan's death was far from being peaceful. A-Qing jumped from his widely opened eyes. Then, as she saw the blood that spilled out of his mouth, streaming down his chin, staining the front of his shirt, pooling over the ground, large drops of tears rolled from her eyes. Although she was scared, A-Qing reached out to close Song Lan's eyes. She then kneeled in front of him and put her palms together, Taoist, please don't blame me or the other Taoist. If I came out, I'd die anyways, so I had to hide and couldn't help you. The other Taoist was fooled by that bastard as well. He didn't do it on purpose. He didn't know that you were the one he killed! Cried A-Qing

She sobbed

on,

I'm going back. Please, let your deceased spirit bless me so that I can get Taoist Xiao XingChen out of there, bless us so that we can escape the demon's control. I must not let that monster Xue Yang die in peace. I must cut him into pieces so that he never enters reincarnation again! After her speech, she kowtowed on the ground three loud times. She wiped her face harshly, stood up, encouraged herself, and walked in the direction of Yi City. The sky had already darkened when she returned to the coffin home. Xue Yang was peeling apples at the table. 

Cutting all of the slices into rabbits, he seemed to be a wonderful mood. Anyone who saw him would think that this must be a lively youth. Nobody would be able to imagine what he had just done. Hearing her entrance, Xiao XingChen came out with a plate of cabbage in his hand, A-Qing, where did you go today? It's already so late.

Glancing at her, something suddenly flashed in Xue Yang's eyes, What's wrong? Her eyes are so swollen.

What happened? Did someone bully you? Asked Xiao XingChen as he hurried over

Bully her? Who'd be able to bully her? Asked Xue Yang

Although he wore a broad smile, he was clearly growing suspicious. Suddenly, A-Qing threw the bamboo pole onto the ground, and started wailing. She cried with both tears and a runny nose. Almost hiccupping, she flew into Xiao XingChen's arms, Am I ugly? Am I ugly? Taoist, you have to tell me. Am I really that ugly? She cried

Of course not. A-Qing is such a pretty girl. Who said that you're ugly? Said Xiao XingChen as he stroked her head

You're so ugly. You're even uglier when you cry. Said Xue Yang

cruelly

Don't say that. Said Xiao XingChen

A-Qing cried harder. She stomped her feet. Well, Taoist, it's not like you can see! What's the use if you say I'm pretty? You're definitely lying to me! He can see. He said I'm ugly, so I must really be that ugly! Both ugly and blind! Cried A-Qing

From all the fuss, both of them naturally believed that some children called her ugly-pants or white-eyed blind girl when she was outside today, and was feeling frustrated. Xue Yang dismissed. You came back crying just because they said you're ugly? Where did your usual unreasonable rudeness go? Asked Xue Yang

I'm not rude! Taoist, do you have any money left? Asked A-Qing

With a pause, Uh... I think so. Replied Xiao XingChen

I can lend you some. Said Xue Yang

You've been living and eating with us for so long, and you still call it 'lending' if we use some of your money! What a miser! You have no shame! Taoist, I want to buy pretty clothes and pretty jewelry. Can you come with me? Asked A-Qing

Yes

I can, but I won't be able to help you see if they suit you or not. Said Xiao XingChen

I can help her. Said Xue Yang

A-Qing jumped so high that she almost hit Xiao XingChen's chin, I don't care, I don't care! I only want you! I don't want him beside me at all. All he'll say is that I'm ugly! And he'll call me Little Blind! Cried A-Qing harder

It wasn't the first time that she acted in such an unreasonable way. The two of them were already used to it. Xue Yang pulled a face at her, while Xiao XingChen agreed, Alright. How about tomorrow? He asked

Tonight! Said A-Qing

If you go tonight, all of the markets will have closed. Where else could you possibly go? Asked Xue Yang

Fine! Then tomorrow it is! It's a promise! Said A-Qing. Having failed a first attempt, if she still begged to go outside, Xue Yang would definitely be suspicious again. A-Qing could only drop the matter for now and go to the table for dinner. During the previous ruckus, although her performance was the same as before, appearing more than natural, her stomach had been stretched taut throughout. 

She had been so nervous that, even now, the hand that she held her bowl with was still trembling. Xue Yang was sitting right at her left. As he glanced sideways at her, her legs stiffened again. Since she was too frightened to eat anything, she conveniently pretended that she was too furious to have an appetite. She spat the food out every time she had a bite. Stabbing her bowl, she muttered and cursed, You damned bitch. You filthy maid.

well,

I don't think you're any better, slut! Listening to her curse at the nonexistent "filthy maid", Xue Yang couldn't hold himself from rolling his eyes, while Xiao XingChen spoke, don't waste food.

Xue Yang's eyes left A-Qing and turned to Xiao XingChen's face instead.

Hua Ying thought, it could indeed be justified how the little delinquent could imitate Xiao XingChen in such an accurate way. After all, they sat in front of each other every single day. He'd have lots of time to figure it out.

However, Xiao XingChen was not at all aware of the two pairs of eyes that pointed at him. After all, he was the only one in the room who was truly blind. After they finished, Xiao XingChen cleaned up the bowls and chopsticks, and went in the central chamber again. Unable to sit or stand still, A-Qing wanted to follow him inside, but Xue Yang suddenly called her, A-Qing.

A-Qing's heart immediately skipped a beat. Even Hua Ying felt the chills that ran from her head down her back. Why did you suddenly call my name?! She asked

Didn't you say yourself that you didn't want to be called Little Blind? Asked Xue Yang

A-Qing

humphed

, People don't just suddenly act nice to others, unless they're hiding other intentions! Just what do you want? She spat

Xue Yang smiled, Nothing, really. I just want to teach you what you should do the next time others curse at you.

Huh. Tell me, then. What should I do? Asked A-Qing

If someone calls you ugly, then make her even uglier. Cut a few dozens of times on her face so that she'll never have the guts to go outside again. If someone calls you blind, then carve one end of your pole sharp, and stab once in both of her eyes so that she'll also be blind. Then, see if she dares to bad

mouths,

you again. Smiled Xue yang

A-Qing's blood ran cold. She pretended as if she thought he was frightening her,

you're

scaring me again!

Xue Yang snorted, well, think what you want.

As he finished, he pushed the plate that held the rabbit-shaped apple slices in front of her, Eat up.

Looking at the plate of cute, delicate slices, disgust filled both A-Qing's and Hua Ying's hearts.

The next day, just as they got up, A-Qing pleaded Xiao XingChen to shop for pretty clothes and makeup alongside her. Xue Yang was annoyed, if you two are gone, then I'd have to buy today's food again?

A-Qing, why can't you buy it? Think about how many times Taoist bought them! You're the only one who bullies and plays tricks on Taoist all the time!

Okay, okay. I'll go buy it. I'll go right now. Said Xue Yang

After he was gone, Xiao XingChen asked, A-Qing, are you still not ready yet? Can we go now?

A-Qing only came inside after she made sure that Xue Yang was long gone. She closed the door and asked in a trembling voice, Taoist, do you happen to know someone called Xue Yang? Xiao XingChen's smile froze. 

The words "Xue Yang" were too big of a shock to him. His complexion was quite pale to start with. After he heard the name, all of the blood drained from his face. His lips were almost a shade of pink-tinted white.

As if he wasn't sure, Xiao XingChen asked in a low voice, Xue Yang? He was suddenly startled, A-Qing, how did you learn of this name?

Xue Yang is the person with us! He's that bastard! Said A-Qing

Xiao XingChen stammered in confusion, The person with us? ... The person with us... He shook his head, as though he was feeling somewhat dizzy. How did you know? He asked

I heard him kill someone! Stammered A-Qing

He killed someone? Who did he kill? Asked Xiao XingChen

A woman! She's very young. I think she had a sword with her. Xue Yang was hiding a sword on him as well. It was because I heard them fighting. They were really loud. The woman kept on calling him 'Xue Yang', and said that he 'wiped out the temple', that he 'killed countless people', and that he should be 'rightfully punished'. Oh heaven, he's out of his mind! He's been hiding beside us all along, and I don't even know what he's trying to do! Cried A-Qing. 

She stayed awake the whole night, making up lies in her mind. First, she definitely couldn't let Taoist know that he killed living humans thinking that they were walking corpses. She couldn't let him know that he killed Song Lan with his own hands either. So, although it'd be unfair to Taoist, she couldn't tell him about Taoist Song's death no matter what. The best would be for Xiao XingChen to run away as far as he could after he discovered who Xue Yang was!

Yet, the news was too hard for him to accept. And, it also sounded rather absurd. Xiao XingChen couldn't believe it at all. But his voice is different. And...

A-Qing was so frustrated that she kept on knocking her pole on the ground, He purposely made it so that his voice is different! He's afraid that you'll recognize him! Suddenly, an idea popped up, Oh right! Right, right! He has nine fingers. Taoist, do you know? Did Xue Yang also have nine fingers? You've definitely seen him before, right? She asked

Xiao XingChen staggered, almost falling to the ground. A-Qing immediately helped him to the table, where they both sat down slowly. After a while, Xiao XingChen spoke again. But, A-Qing, how did you find out that he has nine fingers? Have you touched his hand before? If he really is Xue Yang, though, how would he have let you touch his left hand for you to discover it? He asked again

A-Qing clenched her teeth, Taoist! Let me tell you the truth! I'm not blind. I can see! I didn't touch his hands, but saw them instead!

Each shock was greater than the previous. Xiao XingChen was almost at a loss for words, "What did you say? You can, see? He asked

Although A-Qing was afraid, she couldn't hide the truth any longer. She apologized and apologized, "I'm sorry, Taoist! I didn't lie to you on purpose! I was scared that if you knew that I'm not blind, you'd chase me away! But please don't blame me for now. Let's run away together. He'll be back after he finishes shopping for food! Suddenly, she closed her mouth. 

The bandages that wrapped around Xiao XingChen's eyes were initially white. Now, though, two smudges of red seeped from within. The blood grew more and more and eventually leaked through the bandages, trickling down from where his eyes once were. A-Qing cried out, Taoist, you're bleeding!

Xiao XingChen seemed as if he had just noticed. With a faint exclamation, he reached his hand to his face. When he took it away, it was covered in blood. With quivering hands, A-Qing helped him wipe some off. Yet, the harder she tried, the more blood there was. Xiao XingChen raised a hand, I'm fine... I'm fine. Originally, the injury of his eyes would bleed whenever he had excessive thoughts or emotions, but it hadn't recurred in quite a long while.

Today, though, it started to bleed again.

Xiao XingChen murmured, But... But if he really is Xue Yang, why would it be like this? Why didn't he kill me in the beginning, and even stayed by my side for so many years? Why would this be Xue Yang?

Of course, he wanted to kill you in the beginning! I've seen his eyes before. They were meaner than mean and scarier than scary! But since he was injured and couldn't move, he needed someone to care for him! I didn't know him. If I did and knew that he was a killing machine, I would've stabbed him to death when he was in the bush! Taoist, let's run! Alright? Asked A-Qing

Xiao XingChen managed to calm down, A-Qing, run away.

His voice was slightly hoarse. A-Qing sounded somewhat scared, Me? Taoist, let's run away together!

Xiao XingChen shook his head, I can't go. I need to find out what exactly he's trying to do. He definitely has a goal and tried to reach this goal in the past few years by pretending to somebody else and staying by my side. If I left him here alone, I'm afraid that the people of Yi City would sink into his hands. Xue Yang has always been this way.

This time, A-Qing's sobs weren't faked anymore. She tossed the bamboo pole to the side and clung to Xiao XingChen's leg, Me? Taoist, how can I go by myself? I want to stay with you. If you're not leaving, then I'm not leaving either. If worse comes to worst we'll just be murdered by him. I'll be so lonely that I die if I'm roaming outside by myself anyways. I know you don't want this to happen so me, so let's run away together! She cried

Unfortunately, after the secret that she wasn't blind was revealed, her tactic of using this to gain sympathy no longer worked. Xiao XingChen replied, A-Qing, you can see and you're very clever. I trust that you'll be able to live a good life. You don't know how scary Xue Yang is. You can't stay. You mustn't go near him again,

either.

Suddenly, a series of brisk footsteps came from outside. Xue Yang was back! Xiao XingChen looked up in alarm, returning to the level of keenness he had when he night-hunted. He quickly pulled A-Qing over and whispered. When he comes in, I'll handle him while you use the chance to escape. Listen to me!

A-Qing was so scared that she could only nod, tears still brimming in her eyes. Xue Yang kicked the door. What are you guys doing? I'm already back, and you haven't left yet? If you're still in there then open the hatch and let me inside. I'm so tired. Called Xue Yang

Simply from the tone and the voice, one would think that he was only a boy-next-door, a cheerful brother. However, who'd ever imagine that the person who stood outside was a villain who had no sense of morality, a demon who wore the facade of a human! Although the door wasn't locked, it had been bolted from the inside. If they didn't open the door anytime soon, Xue Yang would definitely be suspicious. Then, when he entered, he'd definitely be somewhat vigilant.

A-Qing wiped her face, how are you tired?! It's only such a small distance from here to the market, and you're already tired?! I'm just a bit slow since I'm seeing which outfit is better. How does it concern you?! She called

How many outfits do you even have? No matter how much you change, you'll look the same. Come, come, open the door. Laughed Xue Yang

Even when A-Qing's legs wobbled, she still spat in a strong voice, Hmph! I'm not going to open it for you. Kick however you please.

Mark your words. Taoist, fix the door afterwards. Don't blame it on me.

After he spoke, he immediately kicked the wooden door open. He stepped over the high threshold and walked inside. He held the basket filled with vegetables on one hand, and a crimson apple on the other. Just as he took a bite out of it, he looked down only to see Shuanghua, which sunk into his

stomach. The

basket dropped to the ground. The cabbage, carrots, apples, and steam buns rolled onto the floor.

Xiao XingChen shouted in a low voice, A-Qing, run!

Moving as fast as she could, A-Qing barged through the door of the coffin home. Immediately afterward, she went on another path and crept back again. She climbed to her usual hiding spot, the one she used most often and was most familiar with, and even popped her head out to watch what was going on inside.

Xiao XingChen asked coldly, Was it fun?

Xue Yang took another bite into the apple that was still in his hand. He only replied after calmly chewing for a while and swallowing the fruit. Yes. Of course, it was fun. He used his original voice again.

Just what do you want to do, having stayed with me for all these years? Asked Xiao Xing Chen

Who knows? Maybe I'm bored. Replied Xue Yang, Xiao XingChen pulled out Shuanghua and got ready to attack again. Xue Yang added, Taoist Xiao XingChen, do you still want to hear the second half of the story that I didn't finish?

No. Replied Xiao XingChen

Although he refused, his head tilted slightly forward and his sword paused as well. Xue Yang replied. Well, I'm going to tell it anyways. After you hear it, if you still think it's my fault, you can do whatever you want. He casually wiped the wound on his stomach, suppressing it so that it didn't bleed excessively. The child saw the man who fooled him to take the letter. He felt both frustrated and happy. He threw himself to the man as he cried, and said to him, 'I brought the letter there, but the pastries are gone and I was beaten up. Can you give me another plate? The man seemed like he had been caught by the brawnier one and had been beaten as well. His face was injured. 

Seeing the dirty little child clinging onto his leg, he couldn't help but felt annoyed and kicked him away at once. He climbed up the ox cart and told the cart driver to leave at once. The child climbed up from the ground and kept on chasing the cart. He really wanted to eat the plate of sugary pastries. Having finally chased up to it, he waved his arms in front of the cart for them to stop. The man was too irritated by his crying. Snatching the driver's whip, he lashed at his head and threw him onto the ground. He spoke one word at a time, and then, the wheels of the cart ground over the child's hand, one finger at a time. Xiao XingChen couldn't see, but Xue Yang raised his left hand at him anyway, He was seven! The bones of his left hand were crushed, while one finger was ground into battered flesh on the spot! This man was Chang Ping's father.

Taoist Xiao XingChen, you were so just, so stern when you brought me to Koi Tower! You condemned me and asked me why I wiped out an entire sect simply because of some suspicion. Is it that, since the fingers weren't yours, you guys were incapable of feeling the pain?! You guys didn't know how horrifying screams sounded like out of your own mouths? Why didn't you ask him why he decided to amuse himself with me without a single reason?! The current Xue Yang was bestowed upon you by the past Chang Cian! The Yueyang Chang CLAN was only reaping what it had sown!

Xiao XingChen spoke as though he couldn't believe Xue Yang's words, Chang Cian broke one of your fingers in the past. If you sought revenge, you could've simply broken one of his fingers as well. If you really took the matter to heart, you could've broken two, or even all ten! Even if you had cut off an entire arm of his, things wouldn't have been like this. Why did you have to kill his entire clan? Don't tell me that a single finger of yours was equal to more than fifty human lives!

Xue Yang actually pondered upon the matter, as if he found Xiao XingChen's questions strange, of course. My finger was my own, while those lives were other peoples'. They wouldn't be equal no matter how many lives I killed. It was only around fifty. How could it have possibly been equal to one of my fingers?

Xiao XingChen's face grew paler and paler from Xue Yang's confident tone. He shouted, "Then what about others?! Then why did you wipe out

Baixue

Temple? Why did you blind Taoist Song

ZiChen's

eyes?!

Xue Yang asked in reply. Then why did you stop me? Why did you hinder what I wanted to do? Why did you stand up for those dregs of the Chang Clan? You wanted to help Chang Cian? Or Chang Ping? How did Chang Ping first cry tears of gratitude? And how did he later beg you not to help him? Taoist Xiao XingChen, this matter had been your fault, ever since the beginning. You shouldn't have meddled with the rights and wrongs of other people. Who was right, who was wrong; would an outsider be able to understand? Or maybe you shouldn't have even left the mountain in the first place. Your teacher,

BaoShan

SanRen

, was indeed smart. Why didn't you listen to her and obediently cultivate in the mountains? If you couldn't understand the happenings of this world, then you shouldn't have come!

It was more than Xiao XingChen could bear, Xue Yang, you really are... too disgusting...

Hearing this, the killing intent that hadn't flashed through Xue Yang's eyes for quite a long while had appeared again.

He laughed bitterly, Xiao XingChen, this is why I hate you. The people that I hate the most are ones like you who say they're righteous, who think they're virtuous, precisely stupid, naive, dumb idiots like you who think the world's better just because you did something good! You think I'm disgusting? Very well. Would I care if anybody thinks I'm disgusting? But, on the other hand, are you in a position to be disgusted by me?

Xiao XingChen paused slightly. What do you mean?

Xue Yang spoke in an affectionate manner, Recently, we haven't gone out at night to kill walking corpses, have we? But, a few years ago, didn't we go outside and kill a bunch every couple of days?

Xiao XingChen's lips moved, as though he was feeling somewhat uneasy,

why

are you bringing this up now?

Nothing, really. It's just really unfortunate that you're blind. You dug out both of your eyes, so you couldn't see those 'walking corpses' that you killed. They were so scared, so pained when you pierced them through the heart. Some even kneeled down and cried and kowtowed for you to let off the young and elderly of their families. If not for how I cut off all of their tongues, I bet they would've been wailing and shouting 'Taoist, spare us'. laughed Xue Yang

Xiao XingChen's entire body started to tremble. After a long while, he managed, you deceived me. You wanted to deceive me.

laughing now that the tears ran down his face. Yes, I deceived you. I've been deceiving you all along. Who would've known that you believed me when I was deceiving you, but now you don't believe me when I'm speaking the truth? Said Xue Yang

Xiao XingChen staggered and swung his word toward Xue Yang, shouting, Be quiet! Be quiet!

Xue Yang pressed his abdominal area. Snapping with his left hand, he calmly backed away. The expression on his face wasn't that of a human anymore. Green light shone from his eyes. Along with the canine teeth that showed when he smiled, he looked as though he was a living monster. He shouted, Alright! I'll be quiet! If you still don't believe me, then pass a few moves with the one standing behind you. Make him tell you that if I'm deceiving you

A sword brought a gust of wind toward him. Xiao XingChen naturally blocked it with Shuanghua. As the two swords clashed, his face immediately grew blank. Or, one could say that his entire body instantly became a stone statue depicting a withered human. Xiao XingChen asked with utmost cautiousness, Is that you,

ZiChen

?

There was no answer. Song Lan's corpse stood behind him. He appeared as if he was gazing at Xiao XingChen, but there were no pupils within his eyes. He held the sword that clashed with Shuanghua. The two of them had definitely often learnt from each other by exchanging blows.

 Even if the two swords had just clashed, Xiao XingChen should be able to tell who the other was from only the strength of the attack. Yet, Xiao XingChen seemed as though he wasn't sure. He turned around slowly and reached out a quivering hand, feeling for the blade of Song Lan's sword. Song Lan didn't move. Xiao XingChen moved his hand upward from the tip. Finally, one stroke after another, he traced over the characters "

Fuxue

" that had been carved on the sword. 

Xiao XingChen's face grew even paler. Almost stupefied, he touched the blade of

Fuxue

, not even noticing that his palm had been grazed. He was trembling so much that even his voice sounded as though it was scattered on the ground,

ZiChen

... Taoist Song... Song Lan... Is that you...?

Song Lan looked at him without making a sound. Two frightening holes had already been soaked through the bandages that was wrapped around Xiao XingChen's eyes by blood that never seemed to stop seeping. He wanted to reach out and touch the person who held the sword, but he was too afraid, reaching out, then putting his arms back again. Waves of tearing pain rippled through A-Qing's chest. Both Hua Ying and she had difficulties breathing. Unable to breathe, tears poured out of her eyes.

Xiao XingChen stood where he was, at a loss of what to do, what happened...? Say something... please. He had completely fallen apart. Can anybody say something?!

As he had wished, Xue Yang spoke, Would I still need to tell you who exactly was the walking corpse that you had killed yesterday?

A clang. Shuanghua fell onto the ground. Xue Yang burst out in laughter. Xiao XingChen stood blankly in front of Song Lan. Putting his hands on his head, he wailed as though he was ripping his chest apart. 

Xue Yang laughed so hard that he could hardly breath. He scowled, What's wrong?! You're so touched to see your old friend again that you're even crying! Do you want to give him a hug?!

A-Qing covered her mouth as firm as she could, refusing to let out any trace of her whimpered crying. Inside of the coffin home, Xue Yang paced from one side to the other as he cursed with a terrifying tone of both wrath and ecstasy, Saving the world! What a joke. You can't even save yourself!

Series of sharp pains stabbed at Hua Ying's head. This time, the pain wasn't from A-Qing's soul. He was getting angry and violently so.

Crestfallen, Xiao XingChen kneeled on the ground, beside Song Lan's feet. He squeezed himself close, as though he had shrunk into a small, weak lump of something, almost hoping that he'd disappear from this world. His snowy white robes had already been covered in dust and blood. 

Xue Yang shouted at him, you couldn't do anything, you've failed miserably, you're the only one to blame, you asked for all of this!

At this moment, Hua Ying saw himself in Xiao XingChen. Him, who failed miserably as he stood drenched in blood, who couldn't do anything except silently acknowledge the critiques and accusations, who was wholly beyond hope, who could only cry in despair!

The white bandages had been stained entirely red. Xiao XingChen's face was covered in blood. Without eyes to cry with, he could only bleed tears. Having been deceived for years, he took his enemy as a friend, and all of his kindness was stepped over. He thought that he was exorcising ghosts, but his hands were bathed in the blood of the innocent. He even killed his closest friend! The person he loved, the person he shared all his nights with, the one that was in his heart 

He could only whimper in pain. Please. Let me go. He whispered

Didn't you want to stab me to death with your sword just a moment ago? Why are you begging me to let you go, now? Asked Xue Yang. He clearly knew that, with Song Lan's corpse protecting him, Xiao XingChen wouldn't be able to pick up his sword again. He won again. It was an overwhelming victory.

Suddenly, Xiao XingChen snatched up Shuanghua, which had been lying on the ground. Turning the body of the sword, he placed the sharp edge by his neck. The clear radiance of a silver sword glare flashed across Xue Yang's dark, lightless eyes. Xiao XingChen loosened his hands. Crimson blood trickled down Shuanghua's blade. Following the limpid echo of the sword tumbling to the ground, both Xue Yang's movement and laughter halted. 

After a while of silence, he walked to Xiao XingChen's motionless corpse. He looked down with bloodshot eyes, the twisted curvature of his lips gradually sinking. Hua Ying didn't know if he had accidentally saw wrong, but it seemed that the rim of Xue Yang's eyes was brimming a reddish tint. Immediately afterward, he glowered through clenched teeth. 

You forced me to do this! He then laughed grimly, and spoke to himself, A dead one is better! Only dead people listen.

Xue Yang felt for Xiao XingChen's breathing and squeezed his wrist, as though he thought that he wasn't dead enough, that he wasn't rigid enough. He stood up, went into the bedroom on the side, and carried out a basin of water. Using a clean towel, he wiped away all of the blood on Xiao XingChen's face. 

He even exchanged the old bandages with new ones, carefully wrapping them around him. He painted an array on the ground, prepared the materials needed, and properly placed Xiao XingChen inside. He only remembered to look after his own abdominal wound after he had done so many things. Probably thinking that the two of them would be able to meet after just a short while, his mood grew better and better. He picked up all of the fruits and vegetables that had been scattered on the ground and organized them into the basket again. 

Out of a rare surge of diligence, he even cleaned the house and placed a new layer of straws into A-Qing's coffin. At last, he took out the piece of candy that Xiao XingChen gave him last night. Just as he was about to put it in his mouth, he thought for a bit. Holding the urge back, he put it back again. With one hand holding his chin out of boredom, he waited for Xiao XingChen to sit up.

But it never happened. The sky had been darkening, and so had Xue Yang's expression. He tapped his fingers

irritably

on the table. When dusk fell completely, he kicked the table and cursed. Standing up, he half-kneeled in front of Xiao XingChen's corpse, checking over the array and incantations that he had painted. After repeated examinations, he felt that there was nothing wrong. 

However, after frowning for a moment, he still wiped away all of them and redrew the entire thing. This time, Xue Yang directly sat on the ground, staring patiently at Xiao XingChen. He waited for another while. A-Qing's legs had already gone through three stages of numbness. Now, they both itched and hurt, as though thousands of ants were nibbling on them. Her eyes had been swollen as well from crying. Her sight was a bit blurry.

After another two hours, Xue Yang finally discovered that the situation had gotten out of control. He put his hand onto Xiao XingChen's forehead, closing his eyes for detection. A moment later, his eyes flew open. It seemed that Xue Yang had never expected something like this to happen. 

On his face, which constantly grinned, an emptiness appeared for the first time. Without thinking, although it was too late, he pressed his hands against the wound on Xiao XingChen's neck. However, all of the blood had already drained away. Xiao XingChen's face was whiter than paper. Large areas of dark-red blood dried up on his neck. Covering the wound now would do nothing. Xiao XingChen had died. He had died completely. Even his soul had shattered.

The child in Xue Yang's story who cried because he couldn't eat pastries was too different from the present him. It was almost impossible to link the two together. Yet, in the current moment, Hua Ying could finally catch a few traces of that ignorant, confused child on Xue Yang's face. In an instant, red veins climbed over Xue Yang's eyes. He stood up suddenly. 

Squeezing both of his hands into fists, he rampaged around the coffin home. He kicked and thrashed, noisily destroying the house that he had just cleaned a few seconds ago. At this point, his expression, the sounds that he made were closer to the word "insane" than all of his past attitudes added together.

After he smashed everything the house, he calmed down again. He squatted where he had been and called out in a small voice, 

Xiao XingChen. If you don't get up, I'll make your dear friend Song Lan murder people. I'll kill off everyone in the entire Yi City and make them into living corpses. You've been living here for such a long time. Is it really okay for you not to care? I'll strangle that little blind A-Qing and leave her corpse in the fields for wild dogs to gobble her up.

A-Qing shivered soundlessly. Having received no reply, Xue Yang suddenly shouted out of rage, Xiao XingChen! He yanked at Xiao XingChen's collars, even though it did nothing, and shook it a couple of times as he stared at the lifeless face in his hands. Suddenly, pulling Xiao XingChen's arm, he lifted him onto his back. Xue Yang carried the corpse toward the door. As if he had lost his mind, he ranted in a whisper, 

"Spirit-trapping Pouch, Spirit-trapping Pouch. Right, a Spirit-trapping Pouch. I need a Spirit-trapping Pouch, a Spirit-trapping Pouch, a Spirit-trapping Pouch." 

Only after he was far away did A-Qing dare to move slightly. Unable to balance herself, she tumbled to the ground, and only crawled up again after writhing for a while. She managed to walk a few more steps forward. As her muscles stretched, she walked faster and faster and faster, and started to run. After she ran so far that Yi City was far behind her, she finally let out the cries that she buried within herself.

His uncle, it was his uncle's shattered soul with the soul-trapping bag that Xue Yang had. He had the shattered soul of someone that hated him wanted it whole to make a pure man a corpse so that he could continue murdering! Hua Ying had felt this anger once, only once and that was at the night-less city when he had lost control over his anger and released the seal and had people carve each other up over it.

The scenario suddenly changed and turned to somewhere else. At this point, A-Qing had probably already been on the run for a couple of days. She was walking in an unfamiliar town, holding a bamboo pole and pretending to be blind again. She asked whoever came toward her,

Excuse

me, are there any big sects around here? Excuse me, are there any really powerful people around the area? Powerful people who cultivate. Unfortunately, nobody took her questions seriously. They'd often walk away after just a few half-hearted sentences. A-Qing wasn't discouraged, either. 

She tirelessly asked, even if she had been shooed away all those times. Seeing that she couldn't get any answers here, she left and went on a smaller path. She had been walking and asking for an entire day. Exhausted, she dragged her heavy legs toward a brook. She cupped her hands and drank a few sips of the water, soothing her dry throat. Through the water, she saw a wooden hairpin in her hair, and reached for it. Looking at the hairpin, A-Qing puckered her lips, wanting to cry again. 

Her stomach growled, and she took a small, white money pouch out of her lapel. This was the one she stole from Xiao XingChen. She then dug out a small candy from within it and licked it carefully. After the tip of her tongue tasted the sweetness, she put the candy back again. This was the last piece of candy Xiao XingChen gave her. A-Qing looked down and packed the pouch away again. With a glance, she suddenly found that another person's shadow appeared within the reflection of the water. Standing in the reflection, Xue Yang was smiling at her.

With a startled scream, A-Qing immediately scrambled away. Ever since sometime, Xue Yang had been standing behind her. With Shuanghua in his hand, he opened his arms and made the gesture of a hug. 

He spoke happily, A-Qing, why are you running away? We haven't seen each other in such a long time. Don't you miss me?

A-Qing shrieked, Help me!

Yet, this was already an obscure mountain path. Nobody would come to help her. 

Xue Yang raised a brow, I just happened to have run into you when you were asking around in the city after I finished my business in Yueyang. What a wonderful turn of fate. Speaking of it, your acting is superb. You even fooled me for such a long time. Well done.

A-Qing knew that there was no chance of escaping death this time. After the shock, thinking to herself that she'd die anyway, why couldn't die after cursing all she wanted? Becoming bolder again, 

she jumped up and spat, You animal! Thankless wretch! Lower than low bastard! Your parents must've made love in a pigpen for a son of a bitch like you to happen! You're just a germ who grew up eating shit!

Having used to roam the marketplaces, she had heard more than a great deal of curses and arguments. She spat out whatever profanities that came to her mind. Xue Yang only grinned and listened. 

You're quite good at this, aren't you? Why haven't I heard you act so rude in front of Xiao XingChen? You got more coming? Sneered Xue Yang

A-Qing continued. Fuck you, shameless filth! And you still dare to mention Taoist XingChen and hold Taoist XingChen's sword! Do you deserve to hold it? You're dirtying his belonging!

Xue Yang held up Shuanghua with his left hand. Oh, you mean this? It's mine now. Did you think your Taoist is any cleaner? After this, he'll also be my...

You piece of shit! Dream on! You don't deserve to call Taoist XingChen unclean. You're just a pool of spittle! Taoist must be the unluckiest man in the world to have met you! You're the only one who's dirty! It's only a disgusting pool of spittle like you! Shouted A-Qing

Xue Yang's expression finally darkened. Having been on the edge for such a long time, now that the moment had finally arrived, A-Qing felt strangely relieved. Xue Yang spoke in a cold tone. 

Since you like pretending to be blind so much, why don't you become truly blind? Xue Yang growled

With a wave of his hand, some sort of powder came at her face and went into her eyes. Immediately, everything she could see became a bloody red, then turned into darkness. Stung by the scorching pain on her eyes, A-Qing let out a blood-curdling screech. Xue Yang's voice came again, 

You're too talkative. You won't need your tongue anymore, either. He sneered

The crisp rings of the silver bell sounded as though they were right beside Hua Ying, yet he was still immersed in A-Qing's emotions, unable to come back to his senses. His head spun as well.