Above Skull Mountain, the atmosphere remained taut as drawn wire. Luo Wuya, Ouyang Feng, and Yun Zhiqiu—three cultivators at the Final-phase of Qi Refining—stood in silent confrontation, none willing to yield an inch.
At that moment, a streak of light suddenly cut across the horizon.
As it neared, the radiance faded, revealing an elderly monk clad in a patched robe, a Zen staff in hand. He brought his palms together and bowed toward Yun Zhiqiu.
"This humble monk is Ming Zen. Greetings, Benefactor Yun."
Yun Zhiqiu nodded slightly, his expression calm.
"'Demon-Slaying Zen Master' Ming Zen—I have heard of you. It seems you share karmic ties with my uncle."
"The Benefactor is perceptive."
Ming Zen smiled faintly. "Years ago, Elder Yun sought evil spirits in the Eastern Sea and took refuge at my humble temple. It was through his guidance that I achieved what I have today."
