books44 Chapter 28 The Crazy Dumpling
Chapter 28 The Crazy Dumpling
Ning Xiaoxi glanced ahead and saw that the entrance to the valley was blocked by a pile of collapsed rocks, which looked like they had collapsed recently.
Wu Dayong led several constables to inspect the area and found that the stone blocked the exit very tightly, allowing only one person to pass sideways; a carriage could not pass through under any circumstances.
Wu Dayong climbed to the top of the rock and looked around. By then, it was already getting dark, and even if they moved the rock, they couldn't go any further. Just then, he saw what appeared to be a hidden cave entrance on the right side of the mountain.
Immediately afterward, Wu Dayong sent several constables to scout the cave to see if it could be used as a campsite for the night. He also directed all the prisoners to move the stones blocking the road and clear the way.
Ning Xiaoxi followed her parents and brother, taking turns to move and carry stones.
When they reached the pile of stones blocking the entrance to the valley, they could see clearly that the stones within sight were not very large, mostly broken, and the larger ones could be carried by two adults to the roadside.
Four prisoners were clearing stones from the side, and then the people following behind carried them away, moving them to the designated place according to the instructions of the constables.
The prisoners, who had been walking all day, were exhausted, but they had no choice but to grit their teeth and persevere. Fortunately, none of the stones were particularly difficult to clear.
As Ning Xiaoxi put down the stones she had brought and walked back, she saw the constables who had gone to scout ahead return. After explaining the situation to Wu Dayong, they led a dozen or so prisoners away with the supply wagons. Seeing this, Ning Xiaoxi knew that she had found a place to rest for the night.
After about half an hour of effort, by the time it was completely dark, the rocks blocking the entrance to the valley had been cleared and the road was open.
As the group walked toward the camp under the guidance of the constables, they suddenly noticed that the entire valley was gradually lighting up.
Butterfly-like creatures took flight from all corners of the valley. These creatures were enormous, with wingspans reaching two meters, their wings covered in exquisite spirit crystal patterns that shimmered with a ghostly blue light in the darkness, like stars twinkling in the night sky. Their bodies emanated a faint spiritual aura, causing the surrounding air to grow cold.
[The Spirit Crystal Demon is a gregarious demonic creature, resembling a butterfly in appearance. Extremely beautiful, its wingspan can reach several meters, covered with intricate spirit crystal patterns. It feeds on spirit flowers and herbs surrounding spirit crystal veins, as well as spirit crystal powder scattered in the air. Its body is light and agile, allowing for extremely fast flight, enabling it to move freely through narrow mine passages. The Spirit Crystal Demon possesses a deceptive quality; it can release colorful spirit mist containing faint fluctuations of spiritual energy, which can interfere with the enemy's vision and perception, causing them to fall into a brief state of confusion and bewilderment. Weakness: Vulnerable to fire; the spirit energy discs beneath its feet are fatal weaknesses and can be destroyed by physical attacks.]
Ning Xiaoxi looked at the description that appeared above the demon's head and couldn't help but gasp. She quickly walked to Wu Dayong's side and said, "Officer Wu, these are spirit crystal demons, gregarious creatures. Don't disturb them. Let's go quickly."
Wu Dayong now greatly admired Ning Xiaoxi's ability to deal with demons. Upon hearing her words, he quickly instructed the guards around him to keep the prisoners quiet and to walk quietly along the foot of the mountain.
[Ding! The survival skill "Blessed Land" has been awakened. You have obtained a portable blessed land, which can store supplies and spirit crystal ore veins. The blessed land can be upgraded.]
Just as Ning Xiaoxi was about to enter the cave where she would rest for the night, Tuanzi, whom she hadn't seen for many days, suddenly jumped out.
"Xiao Xi, Xiao Xi, Xiao Xi, the spirit crystal vein in the valley was exposed because of the earthquake a few days ago. Now that you've awakened this blessed land, you can extract spirit crystals from the vein, giving your abilities a comprehensive boost." Tuanzi's expression was somewhat out of control. "Quick, quick, go and collect that vein."
[Tuanzi, are you alright?]
[Ding! The Demon-Slaying and Monster-Exterminating skill, Spirit Taming and Subjugation, has been awakened. You have the opportunity to form contracts with weak but potentially powerful spirit pets, using their power to assist in combat and reconnaissance. After the contract is established, you will learn about their habits and abilities, and improve their strength through feeding them spirit items and joint training. The spirit pet can share the burden in battle, such as scouting monsters and disrupting their attacks.]
Another awakening notification sounded, but Ning Xiaoxi felt a little scared.
【Xiao Xi, Xiao Xi, Xiao Xi, this skill allows you to subdue demons and make them your own. You can control their souls and their lives. However, remember, do not cultivate with demons. They are merely slaves, objects to be used as cannon fodder in battle. Remember, those who are not of our kind will surely have different hearts.】
Tuanzi's almost frantic expression really frightened Ning Xiaoxi.
[Ding! You have awakened the Demon-Slaying Skill, a beginner-level magical artifact has recognized you as its master. You have obtained a magical artifact with spiritual power. You need to establish a connection with the artifact through rituals such as blood recognition and infusing spiritual power, so that the artifact can obey your commands. After recognizing you as its master, you can learn about its basic functions and usage methods. Through daily wearing and use, you will gradually become accustomed to the artifact and improve your proficiency in controlling it.]
Ning Xiaoxi stood stiffly at the entrance of the cave, not daring to move an inch.
Ning Shi was the first to notice Ning Xiaoxi's unusual behavior. He walked to her side with concern, but seeing her stiff body, he didn't dare to touch her. "Xiaoxi, what's wrong?"
Ning Xiaoxi realized what was happening and gave Ning Shi a somewhat twisted smile. "Dad, I'm fine. You can go inside and settle in first."
Wu Dayong also noticed the commotion and walked over. "Young lady?"
"It's alright, those spirit crystal demons won't attack humans on their own. But with such a large number appearing, I still need to check the situation. Tell everyone not to light any fires; it'll be hard work today." Ning Xiaoxi temporarily suppressed her doubts about Tuanzi's illogical behavior, prioritizing reassuring her family.
"Xiaoxi, since they won't attack us, let's hide in the cave and leave as soon as possible tomorrow morning." Ning Shi didn't want his daughter to be the one charging ahead. Ming Luoying also looked at her daughter with worry.
"Father, it's alright. I'm just going to observe their condition. I won't have any conflict with them."
“Xiao Xi.” Ning Ziqing stood beside Ning Shi, feeling that he was a useless older brother who could do nothing.
"Brother, you stay here and take good care of Father and Mother."
Looking at his daughter's determined expression, Ning Shi knew he couldn't stop her. "Then be careful. Father is right at the entrance of this cave. If you need anything, just shout."
"Okay, I know."
Ning Xiaoxi nodded to Wu Dayong beside her, then turned and walked out of the cave along the cave wall, disappearing into the darkness.
Wu Dayong patted Ning Shi on the shoulder and reassured him, "Don't worry, Lord Ning. The young lady is capable. If it's really necessary, we're still here. We'll certainly not stand idly by if we can help."
Ning Shi knew that even if Wu Dayong really needed help, his primary goal was to ensure the safety of the team members. He wasn't a Taoist priest; his primary task when encountering demons was to save his own life. Why would he care about the lives of others?