Chapter 27: Setting Forth for Treasure, Facing the First Peril

Soul-Severing Mountain lives up to its name, shrouded year-round in eerie mist, its ancient legends deterring countless explorers. Yet, in search of a legendary treasure of supernatural power, Mao Yu stepped resolutely into this forbidden realm.

"Wow, it’s so spooky here! It feels even more terrifying than the basement at home!" Mao Ling gripped Mao Yu’s sleeve tightly, looking like a startled little rabbit.

Although Feng Yao appeared composed, the slight furrowing of her brow betrayed her inner unease. She scanned their surroundings and whispered, "The air here is filled with strange energy fluctuations. Everyone, stay alert."

The entrance to the ancient ruins loomed like the gaping maw of a colossal beast, silently awaiting its prey. The walls were covered in mysterious runes that emitted a faint, ghostly glow, as if recounting a long-forgotten history. Mao Ling peered nervously into the shadows, feeling as though something was watching them from the dark.

"Heh, looks like we’re late!" A rugged voice shattered the silence of the ruins.

Captain Liu and his supernatural exploration team appeared at the entrance. His gaze, fixed greedily on Mao Yu and his companions, made them look like lambs waiting for the slaughter.

"Kid, I heard you’re interested in the treasure too?" Captain Liu grinned, revealing yellow teeth. "If you’re smart, hand over the clues, and I might consider sparing your lives."

Mao Yu sneered, "You? Do you even think you’re worthy?"

"Stubborn to the end!" Captain Liu’s face darkened as he waved a hand. "Boys, get them!"

The team members immediately swarmed forward, their presence aggressive and their powers surging, creating an intense pressure. Mao Ling turned pale with fright, shivering behind Mao Yu. Feng Yao drew her dagger, her eyes icy as she watched the encroaching enemies.

Mao Yu shielded the two women, a look of disdain curling his lips. "Want to steal from me? Let’s see if you have the ability!"

"Hmph, you’re courting death!" Captain Liu sneered, a flash of murderous intent in his eyes. "Get—"

Before he could finish, the team members lunged. Fireballs, ice shards, and wind blades rained down upon Mao Yu like a violent storm. The situation was dire, resembling a high-tension warning scene from an intense animation.

Yet, Mao Yu remained unruffled. Light-footed and agile, he ghosted through the ruins, dodging every attack. The projectiles missed their mark, colliding with one another and erupting in a shower of brilliant sparks.

"Is that it? Is that really it? I thought this was a high-tier challenge, but it turns out to be a bronze-level player trying to fish in a pond!" Mao Yu mocked while he dodged.

As he evaded, he began to accumulate his own power. He pressed his palms together and chanted under his breath, "System, grant me strength! I’m going to dominate the heavens, the earth, and everything in between!"

A dazzling light erupted from Mao Yu, illuminating the entire ruin. The team members were blinded by the sudden radiance, and by the time they regained their vision, Mao Yu was already upon them.

"Take my Mighty Vajra Finger!" With a shout, he thrust a finger forward, striking a team member square in the chest.

"Pfft!" The man flew backward like a broken kite, crashing heavily to the ground, vomiting blood, and seeing stars. He would likely be dreaming of superheroes tonight.

The other members were terrified, their faces drained of color as they trembled. Feng Yao and Mao Ling watched in stunned silence, their eyes filled with admiration. Feng Yao walked over and gently wiped the sweat from Mao Yu’s forehead, saying softly, "Are you alright?"

Mao Yu felt a flicker of emotion as he looked at her. He smiled slightly. "I'm fine. It was just a warm-up."

Mao Ling, witnessing this, felt a sour pang in her heart, as if she had tasted every flavor of the spice jar except sweetness.

Captain Liu’s expression turned grim as he saw his men failing. He gritted his teeth and pulled a black bead from his robe.

"You forced my hand, kid!" he roared, his face twisted. "Behold my ultimate weapon—Dark Devour!"

He threw the bead into the air, and it instantly unleashed a surge of dark energy, plunging the entire ruin into darkness.

"Oh no!" Feng Yao gasped.

The dark energy surged like a tidal wave. Mao Yu quickly shielded Feng Yao and Mao Ling, activating his "Invincible Golden Bell" skill, encasing them in a golden dome of energy.

"Seriously? Going that big?" Mao Yu complained. "Are you trying to send me to the afterlife?"

Unexpectedly, Captain Liu did not continue his attack. Instead, he retracted the black bead and plastered a hypocritical smile on his face.

"Young Master Mao, it’s a misunderstanding! A complete misunderstanding! I’ve long heard of your reputation and have always wanted to be friends and explore the secrets of this treasure together."

Mao Yu sneered inwardly; this man’s ability to flip-flop was faster than turning pages. He pretended to contemplate, rubbing his chin. "Cooperation? It’s not impossible, but you’ll need to show some sincerity."

Seeing an opening, Captain Liu quickly added, "Of course, of course! I know a crucial clue regarding the treasure’s entrance. If we work together, I guarantee I’ll share it with you."

The team members looked at each other, confused by their captain’s sudden change of heart. Captain Liu glared at them, signaling them to stay silent.

Mao Yu feigned agreement and engaged in empty small talk. He probed for information and cleverly coaxed out the fact that Captain Liu knew a secret about the labyrinth leading to the treasure.

"Captain Liu, since you’re being so sincere, let’s see that clue." Mao Yu’s tone shifted suddenly, a cold glint in his eyes.

Startled by the sudden change, Captain Liu stammered, "This... this clue..."

"Stop wasting time, hand it over!" Mao Yu urged impatiently, releasing a wave of powerful pressure that bore down on the captain like a mountain.

Drenched in cold sweat, Captain Liu tremblingly pulled a sheepskin scroll from his robes and handed it over. Mao Yu took it, a triumphant smile touching his lips. He tucked the scroll away and turned to leave with Feng Yao and Mao Ling, leaving Captain Liu behind, stamping his feet in impotent rage.

"Mao Yu! You wait! I won't let you get away with this!" the captain roared, grinding his teeth.

Following the instructions on the scroll, the trio arrived at the entrance of the labyrinth. A massive stone door stood before them, carved with intricate patterns and radiating an ancient, mysterious aura.

"It seems the real challenge is just beginning," Feng Yao whispered, staring at the door.

Mao Ling gripped Mao Yu’s hand tightly, her eyes full of worry. Mao Yu took a deep breath and reached out to push the stone door open.