Six hours after Blood Moon tried murdering them, Hunter was pretty sure his body had decided to quit.
Foundation Mid worked theoretically. Practically, every meridian screamed about recent life choices. Hidden injuries whispered suggestions about extended bed rest. His spiritual energy felt held together by duct tape and optimism.
Two Foundation Realm cultivators. Him and Han. That was Shadow Rest's entire Foundation defense against Core Formation threats and spirit beast tides.
They'd survived because Liu Mei was Peak Core Formation and terrifyingly competent. Without her they'd all be dead. Simple math.
"Reinforcements incoming." Liu Mei's spiritual pressure spiked. "Six Foundation Realm cultivators. Three minutes."
About time.
The spirit crane descended exactly on schedule. Massive bird with azure plumage landing in the courtyard with impossible grace. Six cultivators dismounted wearing Azure Cloud Sect inner disciple robes. Professional military bearing.
