The bloodstained long sword was placed nearby, its tassel swaying slightly in the wind.
The child slept beside him, utterly at peace.
The Taoist opened his eyes, his gaze serene, showing not a trace of murderous intent, and whispered softly,
"Do not wake them."
Thus, the townsfolk came looking for their children, their expressions almost disbelieving, mixed with heartache, bewilderment, and many other emotions. Those who found their children had expressions of ecstatic joy, the emotion of regaining what was lost almost bringing them to tears.
But there were also those who had not found their children, utterly panicked, faces pale.
Quiet crying, conversations, despair, sorrow, the myriad states of life. Li Guanyi picked up the Pine Pattern Ancient Sword and donned his bloodied Taoist robe, stepped out, where the corpses lay arranged, and a disciple from Divine Beast Manor said, "This, this Taoist..."
His mouth trembled as he spoke.
