More individuals began to emerge from the other passages, but they were in a dire state. They had entered full of vitality, but their conditions had drastically deteriorated in a short span.1

“I want to leave!” Some were on the verge of collapsing and wanted to leave.1

“The entrance is sealed; we’re trapped here!” Others who had attempted to retrace their steps discovered the exit was sealed, confirming their entrapment.1

Many women, overwhelmed by fear—a common reaction to snakes—broke down in tears.4

“Brother Zhao, what should we do? We’re all trapped here now!” Everyone automatically grouped. They had no choice but to band together to find their way out.1

Of the over a thousand people who had entered, slightly less than half had perished. Only about seven hundred remained, forming roughly ten groups.2

Liu Wuxie remained still, silently observing the unfolding chaos.0

“Have you all considered this? Since the pythons can survive here, they must venture out to hunt for food. They can’t possibly live underground their entire lives,” Zhao Chen proposed after a moment of contemplation.1

Liu Wuxie gave a nod of approval. Zhao Chen’s ability to think...1