These ghosts were perfect practice targets for them, having only recently been resurrected and still adjusting to their new bodies.
"Why are they taking so long?"
As if summoned by the words, four more figures appeared on the railing.
Fanan, wearing a blue mask, Yinda, with a red mask, Minu, donning a yellow mask, and Fushe, in a purple mask.
They were Yaksha immortals who should have died a hundred years ago, but with the help of some individuals, they had regained their lives and could once again contribute to Liyue.
"It's been so long since I've seen Liyue. The changes are so rapid; it's hard to describe. I, your elder brother, can barely remember how to lead you around anymore."
Fushe pondered for a moment, deciding there would be time to adapt to the map later. There was no rush.
"Yes, it has been a long time. I wonder if the Emperor still likes the outfits I designed? If so, I can design a couple more. He might be quite pleased."
Minu saw the Emperor standing in mid-air, still wearing the clothes he had designed, and knew that the other party likely appreciated his craftsmanship.
"Then we must visit this place when we have the chance. I'm already itching to try the local delicacies."
Yinda smiled calmly. She was very interested in the Liyue of today and wondered what had changed over the years.
It was unlikely that everything remained the same.
"We five Yakshas will go together then. I hope we can find some souvenirs too."
Fanan stroked the claws in her hand, which were incredibly sharp. She had polished them meticulously. Tearing apart these few little ghosts would be as easy as flipping a hand.
"Then I'll leave this place to you all. I'm going to inquire about the general situation, and then we'll go support the Emperor together."
"Alright." *4
With that said, Xiao vanished from his spot and reappeared in the Jade Chamber the next second. As for how such a marvel was possible, you'd have to ask the all-purpose telephone watch.
"What's the current situation? At this rate, that massive body will be torn to shreds in no time."
Xiao glanced into the distance and saw Zhongli circling, engaged in combat.
"Perhaps. All I can do is this much. I entrust the rest to you, esteemed immortals."
Two more figures appeared behind them: Apep, the True Lord of the Vagrant, and Hagnitus, the God of Dust.
"I can only say that your actions have been commendable. If we were to entrust Liyue to you now, we would feel much more at ease."
Apep spoke softly, for all these efforts were evident. One couldn't expect a person to grow up overnight, just as one couldn't expect Liyue to face enemies instantly. Everything, without exception, required growth.
"Thank you for your praise, immortal. We still..."
Before he could finish, Zhongli was sent flying backward, crashing heavily onto the Jade Chamber. Even its protective shield was slightly damaged.
"Your Majesty! What's wrong?"
But it wasn't over. Zhongli struggled, trying to break free, but he seemed to have no control, floating in the air. His hands kept moving around his neck, as if something was strangling him.
"Old man! Don't you dare die like this!"
A wind arrow imbued with divine power shot out, piercing the Blood Demon deeply. However, the opponent seemed impervious to pain, continuing to choke Zhongli from afar.
"Everyone, let's go together! His Majesty cannot die like this. I still plan to drink with him in the future!"
Venti was anxious. If things continued at this pace, Zhongli, despite his immense power, wouldn't be able to use it. He had to break free from the enemy's control first.
Meanwhile, Ningguang, on the Jade Chamber, was shocked. What had just happened? The Emperor was sent flying? Even the Emperor was not an equal match... Then, would Liyue be doomed?
The other immortals were also stunned. By all rights, shouldn't Rex Lapis have crushed his opponent? How did it turn out this way?
In the sky, Zhongli gasped for air. The force around his neck had not disappeared but had loosened slightly, no longer as tight.
His fingers moved rapidly, conjuring a colossal golden spear from the sky. It sliced through the firmament, momentarily illuminating the dark sea.
As the spear struck, the waves surged several meters high, forming a mini-tsunami.
However, after the dust settled, the Snow Demon stood in place, its body battered and broken. It was riddled with holes, and a massive wound marred its form, yet it did not affect its ability to fight.
"This is the Hall of Wisdom!"
Nahida conjured a massive area-of-effect spell in the air. Within this range, all attributes were enhanced, and even the enemy would be afflicted with the Grass element.
"Now, the time for annihilation!"
Raiden Ei reclaimed the Musou Isshin. Her sister, Ei, had no combat capability, and if even Rex Lapis was like this, she would merely be fodder.
Having learned from past mistakes, the younger sister would absolutely not allow Raiden Makoto to go into battle and insisted she stay put.
"Don't even think about escaping!"
A gigantic wind current formed a small tornado, and countless wind blades shredded the Blood Demon's tattered body. Pieces of flesh were lifted by the strong winds and fell into the sea.
The stench in the air grew heavier. Yet, even so, the Blood Demon's eyes flickered. The three felt their necks being gripped by some unseen will.
The four were simultaneously suspended in mid-air. These were the Four Archons, captured by the enemy. How could this bizarre Blood Demon be so powerful?
The immortals behind them swiftly entered the fray. The Guizhong Ballista unleashed a barrage of attacks, and explosions of various colors erupted on the sea surface. However, they were still unable to affect the will that controlled the necks of the four Archons.
Suddenly, Guizhong shattered the Blood Demon's head. The red light in its eyes vanished, and the four Archons breathed a sigh of relief. Had this continued any longer, they would have been doomed.
"Your Majesty, are you alright? How did things get like this? With your strength, you should have been able to handle it easily!"
Innumerable immortals gathered around the center. Rex Lapis coughed a few times, finally recovering. He glanced at the people around him, feeling a sense of embarrassment.
"That power was too immense, a crushing disparity in levels. That powerful will, like an invisible hand, was gripping my neck tightly, refusing to let go."