For a moment, Xumo's eyes met the blood-red gaze through the crevice, detecting the malevolent smile in those beautiful pupils. At this critical juncture, his eyes widened as he swiftly shifted tactics, summoning a defensive formation around himself.
SLASH!
From within the vines protecting Liuli, a blood-colored tendril with a sharp tip shot forth like a deadly arrow.
Its speed matched that of a bullet, carving through the air with a piercing shriek.
Xumo's formation had barely materialized when the pointed tendril pierced through his barrier, violently penetrating his abdomen.
Puh!
Blood spewed from Xumo's mouth as he collapsed to his knees.
Yet the blood-colored tendril didn't withdraw. Instead, barbs sprouted along its length, twisting and tearing at the young man's flesh.
"The destined child of the Liuli Sect..."