Chapter 94: Lurking Death, Identity Revealed

Chapter 94: Lurking Death, Identity Revealed (Please Subscribe)

Inside Tao Manor, the atmosphere buzzed with activity.

A group of martial cultivators who had arrived at Tao Manor exchanged greetings before entering the Grand Hall together.

When everyone had gathered, Tao Dingfang finally appeared, clad in armor with an apologetic smile: "Apologies for my tardiness, everyone. Allow me to punish myself with a drink." He raised his cup, and the guests followed suit.

Jade White Gang leader Zhao Baiyu remarked, "Lord Tao's busy schedule is truly a blessing for White Stone City."

The crowd nodded in agreement. Tao waved his hand modestly. "Master Zhao flatters me. These days have indeed been hectic." His gaze swept the room before settling on an empty seat. "Master Hong, who's missing from your group?"

Hong Ming replied immediately, "My apprentice Su Chen remains in Medicine Town. Please forgive his absence, Lord Tao."

"Ah, Young Su", Tao mused. "I heard he's already become a Vital Force Cultivator. Such youthful talent promises a brilliant future!" The crowd exchanged odd glances while Hong Ming offered a grateful smile.

As the banquet progressed, Tao Wenxuan noticed Xiao Changhe, leader of the Long River Gang, hadn't touched his food. "Master Xiao, why aren't you partaking? Everyone else enjoys the feast."

The stout, plain-faced gang leader chuckled. "Thank you for your concern, Lord Tao. I've been nursing old wounds and cannot drink."

"Is your injury troubling you", Tao asked coolly, "or my recent destruction of the Pure Land Sect?"

Silence fell. All eyes turned to Xiao Changhe, whose face paled. "Lord Tao, what do you mean?"

"Do you think I don't know about your collusion with the Pure Land Sect?" Tao narrowed his eyes.

"Impossible!" Xiao stood abruptly. "Surely there's some misunderstanding?"

Tao sighed. "Enough pretense. Seize him!"

Ning Yuan of the Ning Clan lunged first. Xiao blocked the attack, countering with a strike that sent Ning flying backward.

Laughing wildly, Xiao declared, "Tao Dingfang, I never expected you'd discover this. But do you really think these people can stop me?"

"Arrogant!" Ning roared, charging again before staggering. "The food is poisoned!"

Gasps erupted as Xiao confirmed, "Indeed! None of you will escape death today!" He dashed forward, striking Ning with a palm that sent him crashing into tables like a broken kite.

"Your time is up!" Xiao advanced on Tao, murder in his eyes.

Tao nodded calmly. "I admit, I didn't expect this."

Xiao hesitated, sensing Tao's composure was feigned. "Too late for regrets!"

As Xiao attacked, Tao moved with startling speed. "You'll die instead!" His fist smashed into Xiao, sending him flying.

"Without Visceral Reformation cultivation", Tao sneered, "you can't comprehend its power. Common poisons mean nothing to me!" He'd neutralized the toxins during their conversation.

Xiao coughed blood, his organs screaming in agony from Tao's strike.

Tao clapped twice. Bailiffs and soldiers stormed in. "Arrest them all! Kill any who resist!"

"Lord Tao, this is a mistake!" Ning protested. "We're not Pure Land Sect traitors!"

Tao smiled coldly. "You received stolen goods. That alone warrants arrest."

The crowd turned pale.

"Seize them!" the soldiers barked.

Xiao roared, kicking aside weapons and leaping to his feet. He struck down guards before shouting, "Break free!"

Martial cultivators rallied, but Tao ordered, "Kill them all!"

The poisoned cultivators fought desperately, though Tao remained unconcerned. He'd secretly coated dishes and cups with Softbone Powder. Soon, their bones would soften like jelly.

A cultivator smashed through the gates, only to collapse pierced by arrows. The sight froze the combatants in terror as death closed in.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end