This path was indeed frequently traveled by spirits and demons. The presence of yang energy had noticeably weakened, replaced by eerie yin energy, ghostly spiritual resonance, and demonic qi. Even the sunlight seemed dimmer, making it feel as though they had wandered into some phantom realm.0

And this was still broad daylight, with the sun shining brightly.0

If they were to remain here after nightfall—when the yin energy reached its peak—it was impossible to say just how terrifying the road would become.0

If an ordinary traveler were deceived by demons and spirits into straying onto this path, they might fare well enough during the day. But if they failed to find shelter by nightfall, they would truly become helpless prey upon the demons’ chopping block.0

Zhang Wangchuan glanced at the Daoist priest beside him.0

Yet, the priest's expression remained calm and composed. With a bamboo staff in hand, he walked at a leisurely pace, showing not a trace of fear.0

At his feet, the calico cat’s face had swollen so much it now resembled a pig’s head. Still, she insisted on walking along the ground, her tiny paws padding quickly as she kept close to the Daoist’s side. At the same time, she tilted her head and kept her eyes fixed warily on Zhang Wangchuan.2

Zhang Wangchuan, ever composed, continued...0