The fellow's appearance was also somewhat different from ordinary specters. Perhaps due to a higher level, he looked more human.
His build was decent, and his height wasn't as exaggerated as other specters. He had a normal human physique, with a metal mask covering the upper half of his face. However, the lower half of his face that was visible looked no different from a human's.
Given his appearance and the powerful aura he exuded, Liu Buli could only conclude that this was the Specter King himself.
However, his assumption this time was mistaken. After hearing Liu Buli's question, the specter let out a hearty laugh. Shaking his head, he said, "Although I appreciate you thinking so highly of me, I'm unfortunately nowhere near the King's level. As for you all, if even someone like me is mistaken for the King, then you truly are pathetically weak. But don't worry, I don't eat live prey. I'll finish you off quickly, so you won't feel too much pain."
As the specter finished speaking, he launched his attack. He held no weapon in his hand, and to everyone's surprise, his attack method was remarkably similar to Lu Wuming's – he transformed his hands into specter claws, using their sharp talons to inflict damage.
Liu Buli was the least injured among them and possessed the most spiritual energy. Thus, when he saw the specter charging, he unhesitatingly stepped forward, raising his sword to block the initial attack.
Although successful, he could sense that the specter wasn't aiming to kill him with a single blow. Instead, it felt more like a test of his strength. After the brief contact, the specter immediately retreated, pulling away and flashing a brilliant smile. "With your current strength, I advise you to give up resisting. It will make things more comfortable for you."
Liu Buli offered no response to his advice.
They were only about ten meters from the exit. If he could stall for just a little longer, perhaps the others might still have a chance to escape.
Lu Wuming would certainly not leave first, so...
Liu Buli took a deep breath. Before anyone could react, he suddenly grabbed You Siqi, channeled his spiritual energy into his hand, and hurled him forcefully towards the exit ahead.
You Siqi's abilities were limited, and Liu Buli's action was truly unexpected. He was so caught off guard that he had no time to react before he was already flying through the air.
Shen Muzhi was also startled by Liu Buli's move and quickly chased after You Siqi, momentarily forgetting everything else. As for the specter, he hadn't anticipated such a brilliant move from Liu Buli.
He had intended to intercept You Siqi and the others as they fled, but before he could act, Liu Buli's long sword was already at his throat.
If he were to focus on the two escaping individuals now, Liu Buli's attack would surely injure him. While the damage might not be significant, any injury was undesirable.
Moreover, the two fleeing figures were not his primary targets anyway. Therefore, letting them go was inconsequential.
It was just missing out on a meal.
However, with the delectable presence of Liu Buli, the remaining two, who didn't seem as appealing, could be forgone without issue.
Having quickly reached this conclusion, the specter smiled and met Liu Buli's attack, no longer paying attention to You Siqi and the others.
Shen Muzhi only managed to grab You Siqi's hand at the doorway. He understood Liu Buli's intentions perfectly. Glancing back at the three figures already engaged in battle, he gritted his teeth, pulled You Siqi's arm, and rushed forward a few steps before leading him out of the specter realm.
Upon returning to the human world, the sky outside was still bright. Having been in such profound darkness for so long, Shen Muzhi felt somewhat unaccustomed to the sudden sunlight.
You Siqi beside him, however, was quicker to react. As soon as he regained his footing, he grabbed Shen Muzhi's arm and anxiously asked, "Are we just leaving like this? I don't think those two can defeat that specter! Do you want to go back and help? We..."
"If I had the ability, I would certainly go back and help," Shen Muzhi sighed, shaking his head gently. His voice was filled with exhaustion. "My spiritual energy is almost depleted. Being able to support you out here is already my limit."
Seeing him like this, You Siqi's heart ached. He was indeed worried about Liu Buli and the others, but he also had his own selfish desires.
Compared to his friends, his lover was naturally the most important. He couldn't ask Shen Muzhi to risk his life again to save Liu Buli and the others. Yet, his unease persisted. His fingers clenched and relaxed at his side repeatedly for a while before You Siqi finally bit his lip and asked in a low voice, "Then is there anything we can do to help them even a little?"
"Protect what Liu Buli gave us, live well, and wait for them to come out," Shen Muzhi said. "Yun Xiang and Ao Lie should be arriving soon too. You have to believe that Liu Buli is blessed with great fortune. Even after encountering such perilous situations multiple times, he still finds ways to survive. Don't worry too much. At least, these are the only things we can do right now."
After speaking, Shen Muzhi stood up.
He intended to take You Siqi away, but after a wave of dizziness, his body swayed, and he transformed back into his palm-sized cat form, falling unsteadily into You Siqi's arms.
You Siqi quickly held the small cat close and reached out to touch him. However, the cat had already lost consciousness and lay still in his embrace.
Gritting his teeth, You Siqi finally stood up and walked towards the distant town.
If they remained at the border, there was a possibility of being discovered by other specters.
Since Shen Muzhi had fainted, he had to rely on himself. At the very least, he needed to protect both of them until Shen Muzhi regained consciousness.