Chapter 57: Absorbing the Three Souls and Seven Spirits
Li Yanchu glanced at the Jiang Tong and said, “I was simply curious about the soul-reaping process, so I watched from the side. You're too kind, Honored Deity.”
Jiang Tong replied calmly, “These are the newly deceased souls of Wei City. I’m merely guiding them to the Underworld to be reborn.”
Li Yanchu asked, “Might I trouble you to explain a bit about the Underworld? I find the subject quite fascinating.”
Jiang Tong’s expression turned hesitant. “Your soul is firm and well-nourished, your cultivation impressive... and yet you know nothing of the Underworld?”
Li Yanchu nodded. “I hope you won’t laugh, Honored Deity. I’m just a lone cultivator passing through Wei City during my astral projection. I truly haven’t heard anything about the Underworld.”
Jiang Tong gave him a long, meaningful look. “The Underworld is governed by strict order. Yin and Yang are separate by nature. I must ask your forgiveness, for I am not at liberty to speak much on the matter.”
With that, he offered another respectful bow. Then, with his procession of wandering souls behind him, Jiang Tong gradually disappeared into the distance.
Still, Li Yanchu did not try to stop him. He simply stepped aside and allowed the spectral procession to pass. Slowly, they faded, becoming translucent until they vanished completely. Seeing this, Li Yanchu remained standing where he was, deep in thought.
Night in Wei City was silent and still, cloaked in complete darkness. Only a few scattered places were still lit. Most of them were places that remained active until dawn, like entertainment districts, taverns, gambling dens. Or the luxurious estates of the city’s wealthy elite.
Suddenly, a burst of noise and chatter reached Li Yanchu’s ears, along with the sound of dice rolling. His heart stirred, and he followed the sound, drifting through walls and buildings until he floated into a gambling den.
Above the entrance were three large words, Baotong Gambling Den. Inside, several dozen gamblers were crowded around the tables, engaged in high-stakes betting. The air was thick with tension and excitement. Shouts filled the room, and people were betting with bloodshot eyes, completely absorbed in the game.