Tap, tap, tap. Apart from the sound of footsteps, there was no other noise to be heard. Heavy and repetitive, it made one feel a crushing weight on the chest, as if a huge stone was blocking it. Even breathing became more rapid as they proceeded deeper.
Other than Liu Mou and old Dou, everyone else was taking deep breaths, showing signs of uneven breathing and other discomforts.
Liu Mou remained unconcerned, quietly activating the Nine Heavens Revolving Shield. It warded off the moist chill from outside, transforming it into dry, bland air, and as he breathed it into his lungs he was surprised to discover this additional purpose of the shield. He thought to himself, "It looks like I'll need to study the Nine Heavens Revolving Shield more thoroughly once I get back."
