Chapter 567, The Soul Borrowing and Returning Skill
The sudden appearance of the Vampire Skeletons made the Corpse King's eyes flash with surprise and bloodlust.
It seemed unexpected.
Among these skeletons, there were even ones capable of flight.
Its eerie gaze swept over the encircling Giant-Winged Skeletons, and its half-human, half-insect mouthparts emitted a piercing screech.
Roar~!
The Corpse King let out an angry roar and launched the first attack, rapidly flapping its wings and shooting toward the nearest Vampire Skeleton like a cannonball.
Its two arms swung like segmented limbs, attempting to tear the opponent apart midair.
The Vampire Skeleton exploded with a 'bang,' turning into a blood mist before reappearing unscathed a short distance away.
Whoosh whoosh whoosh~!
At this moment, the sound of projectiles cutting through the air rang out.
The surrounding Vampire Skeletons hurled blood spears.
Some shattered upon impact with the Corpse King's body, while others pierced through its torso.
Thick, viscous liquid oozed out.
The Corpse King let out an enraged roar and fiercely flapped its wings again, attempting to break out of the encirclement.
However, the Vampire Skeletons continued to keep it surrounded, maintaining a certain distance.
Blood spears and crimson projectiles continuously shot out.
They exploded upon impact with the Corpse King's body.
Splat~!
Amidst the chaotic battle, a figure suddenly appeared behind the Corpse King like a phantom, fingers pressed together, instantly piercing through its back.
A blood-soaked hand emerged from its chest, crushing the heart in its grip.
The Corpse King struggled desperately.
It flung its attacker away and plummeted toward the ground.
With a loud 'bang,' it crashed onto the ground.
Countless blood spears followed and rained down.
Then, a massive number of Vampire Skeletons descended and swarmed over it, completely submerging the Corpse King.
...…
"Dead! It didn't get up." Glenda flew back to report.
Almost at the same time as she spoke.
The Zombies that had been maneuvering for an attack suddenly fell into chaos, charging straight ahead. The horde on the main road became packed and began pushing against each other, toppling over in waves.
"Wyvern Skeletons, continue the bombardment! Archers, fire freely ahead." Wu Heng immediately commanded.
Whoosh whoosh whoosh~!
The Wyvern Skeletons soared overhead, dropping solid iron bombs from the sky.
Dense volleys of arrows shot from the rear, forming a storm.
The Zombies collapsed in waves.
More surged onto the streets, continuing their charge forward.
They crashed into the spear formation.
The sharp spears pierced through their rotting bodies, but the Zombies continued to snarl and struggle forward, trying to grasp at the enemies ahead.
Large numbers of Zombies fell.
Wisps of lingering souls drifted toward the sky.
Xiaoxiao swooped down from the sky, beginning to devour the wandering souls above the formation.
As Xiaoxiao continued its relentless devouring.
System notifications followed in succession.
[Wraith leveled up to 18. Constitution +2, Perception +4, Intelligence +2.]
[Unlocked Trait: Enhanced Possession.]
[Unlocked Restriction: Unfinished Business.]
Xiaoxiao had finally reached level 18.
Ever since obtaining the [Soul-Capturing Jade], the growth speed of both his wraiths had skyrocketed.
It was far faster than when he leveled up himself.
At level 18, the wraith's attributes had increased by 8 points.
Perception increased by 4 points, suggesting Xiaoxiao was more inclined toward reconnaissance tasks.
A new trait [Enhanced Possession] was unlocked, along with the restriction [Unfinished Business].
It was the same as when Glenda reached level 18.
However, it lacked [Withering Touch].
The effect of Withering Touch was the ability to directly attack soul entities or harm the souls of living beings.
Xiaoxiao did not unlock it, possibly due to differences between the two worlds.
Regardless, reaching level 18 was a good thing.
Once they returned, he would ask Xiaoxiao about its lingering wish.
Perhaps Xiaoxiao would surpass Glenda in resolving its [Unfinished Business] and continue to grow.
If the Wraith reached level 20, he wondered if it could become a hero.
Glancing back at the battlefield, Wu Heng gave the order, "Advance forward!"
Clatter clatter~!
The Spear Formation Skeletons rose to their feet, forcing the remaining Zombies to retreat step by step.
The Ax-wielding Skeletons following behind swiftly cut down any Zombies that slipped through the gaps.
...…
The battle was over.
The Skeletons began cleaning up the battlefield.
The Corpse King's body was also dragged back by a Skeleton, riddled with bloody holes, looking rather pitiful.
In this battle.
The Vampire Skeletons had demonstrated their significant combat effectiveness.
They had filled the gap in aerial combat.
Although the Wyvern Skeletons were also high-level, their body size and flight method made it difficult for them to hover in midair for combat.
Wu Heng glanced at the corpse and directly cast [Raise Skeleton]. The Skeleton Corpse King rose from the shredded flesh.
"From now on, your name is Flying Demon No.2. Step aside for now." Wu Heng casually named it.
The wingless suit-clad Skeleton Corpse King was called Bone Demon No.1, while the winged Corpse Kings were Flying Demon No.1 and Flying Demon No.2.
Now, there were three Skeleton Corpse Kings in total.
Flying Demon No.1 shook off the bits of flesh on its body, flapped its wings, and flew to the side.
Its hollow eye sockets scanned the surroundings, moving back and forth.
Wu Heng collected the corpse cores on the ground and continued converting the remaining Zombies.
Large numbers of Skeletons stood up from the ground, crowding the entire area.
...…
He reorganized the Skeleton forces.
The Skeletons dispersed to the sides.
The convoy moved forward through the cleared path, heading toward the abandoned Provincial Rescue Team Base.
From afar, they could see a field of ruins.
The remnants of broken walls filled the view, chunks of concrete and twisted steel bars tangled together as if roughly mangled by a giant.
"The rescue team said they detonated explosives during the retreat, killing the Zombies that had broken into the base," Qi Hancai explained.
A charred crater was visible—it must have been the spot where the explosives were stored.
"They were quite ruthless, even planting bombs inside their base."
"I suspect they had already planned to head for the central station. This base was likely constructed as a temporary facility from the beginning," Qi Hancai analyzed.
"Makes sense."
The convoy did not enter the ruins but slowed down on the main road outside.
"Let Gao Rong lead the way. We need to return before nightfall," Wu Heng said.
Qi Hancai picked up the radio and asked, "Gao Rong, which way to the station?"
Gao Rong's voice came through the radio, "Turn left at the intersection ahead, then drive straight, and you'll see the station."
Qi Hancai relayed, "Follow Gao Rong's directions."
The convoy turned left and continued forward.
A dense army of Skeletons followed behind, while a large number of Vampire Skeletons flew around the convoy.
They pressed on.
The station wasn't far, and after a ten-minute drive, they saw makeshift buildings.
There was no danger inside the buildings. Passing through the hall, they spotted the tracks.
Along with the rescue team's train.
The train was quite memorable—New Fushi City's first train was largely modeled after this one.
The iron plating was thickened, and the front had an exaggerated ram.
Now that the rescue team was gone, this train had become their spoils of war.
"Check the train's condition and search for supplies nearby," Wu Heng ordered.
The team immediately got to work, inspecting the train and checking the warehouses for any supplies.
Wu Heng also looked around with his Skeletons.
Qi Hancai returned and reported, "The train is fine. The warehouses only contain some equipment and tools, nothing particularly valuable."
"I'll leave some Skeletons to occupy this place. Future transportation can use the railway."
"Alright." Qi Hancai nodded.
After confirming everything.
Wu Heng assigned Skeletons to guard the site.
The team boarded their vehicles and headed back to the military factory base.
Upon arrival.
Everyone went about their tasks, while Wu Heng returned to his dormitory and entered the Dimensional Gate.
...…
Island Lord's Manor.
After having dinner with the maids.
Wu Heng went upstairs again and returned to the study.
Glenda was editing a manuscript at the desk, while Xiaoxiao was watching cartoons on a side seat, giggling foolishly.
Wu Heng poured himself a cup of tea, walked over, and glanced at Xiaoxiao's cartoon. "You've watched this so many times already, and you still love it?"
"I asked Aunt Yanhong to download a new one for me. She said she'd bring it next time she comes," Xiaoxiao said.
"You really know how to plan ahead." Wu Heng sat down beside her, looked at Xiaoxiao, and then asked, "Xiaoxiao, do you have any wishes?"
Now that Xiaoxiao had reached level 18, he needed to find a way to resolve the [Unfinished Business] issue.
"A wish? No, I'm fine like this. I feel pretty happy right now." Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said.
Wu Heng raised an eyebrow.
That wouldn't do!
"Didn't you say last time that you wanted a giant pink bear plushie? And you wanted a skeleton inside it to be your bodyguard," Wu Heng said.
"That was childish. I was just saying it casually," Xiaoxiao replied.
Wu Heng took a sip of tea. "Xiaoxiao, you've already reached level 18. Uncle has to grant you a wish, just like last time with Aunt Glenda. Think about it carefully."
Glenda glanced up at them before lowering her head and continuing her work.
Xiaoxiao thought for a moment. "Can you bring my dad and grandpa back to life?"
Uh...
"Well… I don't have that kind of power. Pick something simpler." Wu Heng immediately said.
When Wu Heng first met Xiaoxiao's father and grandfather, they had already turned into Zombies.
Later, they attacked him and were killed by Skeletons before being converted into Skeletons themselves. After that, it was impossible to tell which Skeletons they had become. Most likely, they were shattered during battles against Zombies.
Besides, even if he could find them, there was no way to resurrect them.
"Then I really don't have any wishes. As long as we can stay together, that's enough. When you die, and my mom dies, we'll all be Wraiths together."
From not far away, Glenda said, "Your uncle can't die. We're residing in his body. When his lifespan is up, he should just undergo a Ghoul Ritual. The entire island is yours anyway."
"Wow, thanks for thinking that far ahead for me." Wu Heng was speechless.
How did they end up planning his afterlife so casually?
"Hehe~!" Xiaoxiao chuckled, then grabbed her tablet and flew off into the distance, as if avoiding Wu Heng's interference.
Wu Heng watched Xiaoxiao and began to ponder.
Glenda's [Unfinished Business] was clear—it was about her ex-husband.
As for Xiaoxiao, it was most likely related to her mother.
Her only living relative.
He definitely couldn't turn her mother into a Wraith, but he could take better care of her.
A better life or some form of support.
He mulled it over for a while.
Since both Wraiths had their own matters to attend to, he returned to his room to rest.
...…
Zombie World.
Military Factory, Radio Room.
Qi Hancai sat in a chair, her booted legs resting on the edge of the table.
The radio operator beside her finished tuning the frequencies and said, "Sister Qi, we're now on the High River City frequency."
The radio emitted bits of scattered chatter.
Qi Hancai sat up, took the microphone.
Cleared her throat and spoke in a deep voice, "This is the Xinfu City Base."
The moment she spoke, the entire radio channel fell silent.
All conversations ceased.
Qi Hancai continued, "We will head to 'High River City' the day after tomorrow for a rescue operation.
All bases and survivors who receive this message, please prepare according to the following conditions.
1. If you encounter armored Skeletons wielding weapons, do not panic. They are our leader's ability soldiers and the base's main combat force.
2. Under no circumstances should you attack or provoke the Skeletons, or you will be attacked in return.
3. Display a red marker in a visible location or other clear signs indicating the presence of survivors.
4. If the area is clear of Zombies, you may come downstairs and approach the rescue team, but do not make contact with the Skeletons. Instead, communicate with the rear rescue team.
To our brothers and sisters who receive this message, hold on. Hold on until we arrive."
Whoosh~!
As soon as Qi Hancai finished speaking, the High River City frequency erupted.
What was once sparse conversation suddenly became a flood of voices.
Chaotic and noisy.
"Is this the King of Hell's base?"
"Are you really coming? We might not be able to hold out much longer."
Qi Hancai took a deep breath and picked up the radio, "Wait for us. We'll take you to a safe base when we arrive."
"Thank you! Thank you so much!"
...…
Xinfu City Base.
Li Yanhong, who had just returned, washed her face.
Then headed to the radio room.
Adjusting the frequency, she spoke directly, "This is Xinfu City Headquarters. Following the orders of our leader, the King of Hell, we will send a rescue team to 'Tie City' for a rescue operation.
The following are important matters to note. Survivors tuning in, please listen carefully.
1. The armored Skeletons wielding weapons are our soldiers. Do not panic or make any dangerous movements.
2. ...…"
After repeating the same message.
The radio remained silent for four or five seconds.
Then, a hesitant, doubtful voice spoke up, "R-really?"
"Yes, really. We will continue rescuing survivors as we head north."
Then, sobbing could be heard from the radio.
No one spoke any further.
...…
The next day, the Guild.
Wu Heng entered the Steward's study and removed his hood.
Sheila Grey looked up at him and teased, "Oh my, our great detective is here."
"Just a hollow title. Did you need me for something?" Wu Heng placed his hood on the coffee table and sat down on the sofa.
Shiyali brought tea and snacks, then sat not far away, resting her chin on her hand as she smiled at him.
Sheila Grey said, "Lilith, the leader, sent you a letter, along with a personal reward. Seems like she's quite pleased with your actions."
Wu Heng paused mid-sip, surprised that the reward had arrived so quickly.
And it was sent personally.
"What kind of reward?"
"Aren't you a detective? Take a guess."
Wu Heng looked at her and asked suspiciously, "A skill book? A Linbing Jade Talisman?"
Sheila Grey raised an eyebrow. "Hmm, you got two right."
Then, without making him guess further.
She directly took out the items.
There were three in total, corresponding to the three level 18 Exiles he had slain.
As for the first Exile from the Destiny Sect, it seemed that one had simply been forgotten.
Wu Heng looked over.
His eyes lit up.
A pair of boots, a skill book, and a jade talisman.
[Hundred Arms Boots (Exquisite Relic)]
[Effect: Adapts to body transformations, Power of Cangshan.]
[Side Effect: Unable to enter void state.]
(Description: Specially crafted leather boots, seemingly decorative accessories.)
A pair of boots from the Hundred Arms set.
Looks like writing that letter actually paid off.
He had asked about the Hundred Arms set, and now they had sent him a piece.
Could the leader of the headquarters distribute guild rewards under a personal name?
Or had she exchanged something for it before sending it to him?
The latter seemed more likely.
A leader would have no trouble obtaining a first-tier merit reward.
Sitting in that position, she wouldn't risk rumors of using guild rewards for personal favors.
The first item was already satisfying.
Wu Heng moved on to the second.
[Soul Awakening]
(Description: This spell serves as an insurance measure for the resurrection of souls in deceased living beings. The soul of a corpse will awaken within a 'sacrificial' Wraith (only if the soul willingly accepts). Once awakened, the soul will replace the sacrificial Wraith.)
Huh?
A resurrection safeguard for souls.
The soul of the dead awakening in a sacrificial Wraith?
This wasn't borrowing a corpse to return the soul—this was borrowing a soul to return a soul.
Why did they give him this skill?
What did this mean?