Xiang Yu plunged into the dense forest, branches whipping past as he fled deeper into the undergrowth. His heart hammered against his ribcage, each beat pulsing with a profound sense of injustice. What had he done to deserve this? Nothing! Absolutely nothing! Yet here he was, running for his life from cultivators who wanted him dead simply by association. Did the universe genuinely want him eliminated from existence?
Pausing momentarily in a small clearing, he surveyed his surroundings, desperately trying to determine the safest escape route. The sound of crashing foliage and angry voices behind him eliminated any chance for careful consideration. Without a backward glance, he bolted forward, diving deeper into the forest's protective embrace.
Behind him, the five disciples burst into the clearing he'd just vacated. They halted, heads swiveling as they attempted to discern which direction their prey had fled.
"Which way did he go?" one demanded, frustration evident in his voice.
After several moments of debate, the group reached a consensus.
"Let's split up and search in every direction," suggested one of the disciples with an arrogant sneer. "He's just a worthless mortal without spiritual roots. Anyone of us alone is more than enough to handle him."
Agreement rippled through the group. With curt nods, they scattered, each taking a different path into the forest. Their footsteps gradually faded, leaving behind an eerie silence punctuated only by natural forest sounds.
Only when the last echo of their presence disappeared did Xiang Yu cautiously descend from the tree he'd scrambled up moments before they arrived. His improvised hiding spot, though risky, had proven remarkably effective. More importantly, he'd overheard their entire conversation and subsequent plan.
Crouching low, he carefully analyzed the situation. Though unable to precisely gauge their cultivation levels, he could tell they were all Body Refining stage cultivators. Since they were hunting him regardless, waiting passively would only lead to eventual discovery—they would regroup after failing to find him individually, eliminating his advantage.
Now was the perfect opportunity to seize the initiative, but who to target first? fr\eewebno vel .c(o)m
Xiang Yu's mind worked rapidly, recalling the group's dynamics. Two disciples had clearly commanded more respect from the others—likely indicating higher cultivation levels or greater importance. Targeting them would be foolish. From the remaining three, one had appeared particularly nervous, his stance less confident than his companions.
That one, Xiang Yu decided. He's my best chance.
Without further hesitation, he slipped silently through the underbrush, following the trail of his chosen target. The hunter was about to become the hunted.
For several heartbeats, they remained locked in this deadly equilibrium. The dean's lips curled into a smug smile, satisfaction evident in his contemptuous gaze. Just as I thought, she's still just a Foundation Establishment...
The dean's eyes widened as he assessed the destruction her single strike had wrought. Impossible! How could a Foundation Establishment cultivator possess such devastating power? A grudging respect flickered briefly across his features before being replaced by cold determination. I need to stop underestimating her and fight with my full strength.
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