Shadows of the Emporium

Eric's face turned beet red as his blood pressure surged, and he could feel his blood rushing to his head. He quickly checked on his mother and Arin, but they were in an even worse state.

Blood was seeping from every facial orifice, and Eric estimated that they would have fainted if not for his presence.

He stopped running and turned around, his expression darkening with anger and grave concern.

The air felt oppressive, like space was closing in on him, and an abnormal sensation washed over him as if someone was imposing their dominance on the surroundings.

The memories of countless immortals had instilled pride in him, so he couldn't just stand by and watch as someone treated him and his mother with such disrespect.

Suddenly, an old man emerged from the shadows, radiating an aura of intense power, like a scorching sun.

An intense aura that was emitted from a higher level of cultivated blood energy that put the trio into such perilous situation. Even Eric included since he had not practice any blood related art.

"To come and depart at will, under this old man's watch,.. young one, or Eric, what do you take the Emporium for"

As Eric's anger reached its peak, he unconsciously released his Golden Core cultivation, and the air around him transformed. The atmosphere froze, and the oppressive pressure that had been bearing down on his companions began to dissipate. The blood that had been seeping from their faces slowed to a trickle, and their labored breathing eased.

The old man's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed intently on Eric as he sensed the sudden surge in power. Eric's Golden Core cultivation was like a beacon, illuminating the dark space and challenging the old man's dominance.

The air was electric with tension as the two forces clashed, each waiting for the other to make the next move. Eric's mother and Arin, now freed from the crushing pressure, began to stir, their eyes fluttering open as they took in the scene before them. Eric's eyes, however, remained fixed on the old man, his anger and determination burning brighter than ever.

The old man's eyes seemed to bore into Eric's soul as he spoke, his voice low and gravelly. "You've disobeyed the government, stolen spiritual energy meant for military purposes, and even cultivated to this stage... If I didn't have my companions and this advanced technological weapon," he gestured to the transparent gloves now encasing his hands, reminiscent of Iron Man's armor, "I doubt I would be a match for you."

Before Eric could respond, the shadows around them erupted into motion. Ten figures emerged, each wielding unique weapons that seemed to hum with energy. The air was electric with tension as the group formed a semi-circle around Eric, trapping him and his companions.