Chapter Sixty: The Backyard Warehouse

Although my second uncle told me to wait until I reached the Spirit Flower Realm before taking me to the Dong family, I simply couldn’t wait that long. Who knows when the Ghost King’s next game will be—perhaps as soon as tomorrow. So, regardless of whether I've reached the Spirit Flower Realm or not, I must go.

No time like the present—today it is.

I stubbed out my cigarette, packed everything I needed into my ring, and headed out. Naturally, I knew where the Dong residence was. My second uncle had told me before—it lay in a remote suburb, deep within the mountains, so finding it wouldn’t be difficult.

After checking the approximate location on my phone, I hailed a cab. That area had only one mountain, making it easy to spot. Along the way, the driver told me this was called Zhuangzi Mountain, named for the grand Zhuangzi Temple that once stood here, hence “Zhuangzi Mountain.”

As I watched the scenery flash past the window, a sudden sense of loneliness welled up in my heart for reasons unknown. But business had to be done. Not long after, I arrived at the foot of Zhuangzi Mountain.

I looked up at the towering peak—it must have been about eight hundred meters high. The landscape was breathtaking, and there was a faint aura of spiritual energy that seemed to rise from the earth.

After thanking the driver, I started up a narrow path alone. The mountain’s ecosystem was surprisingly well preserved; a dazzling array of plants and animals made me almost lose my way.

Exploring for a while, I found a straight road on the mountain’s side, leading directly to the summit, lined with flowers and shrubs. I had no mind to admire the scenery; I was here for a purpose.

I walked at a steady pace for about twenty minutes. The path behind me had disappeared, and tall woods surrounded me, obscuring any sense of direction. Thankfully, the cool mountain breeze refreshed me as I climbed.

Another half hour passed, and finally, I reached the peak. From up here, I truly felt as if I overlooked all other mountains—the spiritual energy was palpable. If I weren’t in such a hurry, I’d willingly stay here for some time.

Standing atop the mountain, I gazed downward and spotted, about five hundred meters away, a grand manor built halfway up the slope. I was certain this was the Dong family’s lair.

Climbing up had been easy; descending was much harder. I searched all around but found no path down. Left with no choice, I leaned back and made my way down slowly.

The descent was far trickier than the ascent. The birch trees gave way to pines, and a careless move could easily scratch my fingers. Still, I managed to reach the vicinity of the Dong residence without mishap.

Hiding behind a large rock not far from their estate, I peered out, surveying the grounds. The Dong estate was built on a grand scale, with several courtyards and countless rooms.

Two towering pine trees stood sentinel at the gate. All the buildings were quaint and elegant, like a hidden paradise.

Yet, after waiting a good while, I saw no one emerge. Impatient, I crouched low and crept to the base of the wall.

The several-meter-high wall was no obstacle to me now, and I scaled it with ease. Inside, the courtyard was sparsely populated—only a few maids passed by from time to time, but I could tell they were all spirit entities.

The estate was vast, and I had no idea where the body of Nangong Xi might be kept.

Just as I was at a loss, a young man entered through the main gate, humming a tune. I quickly lowered myself to avoid being seen.

He was handsome, but his strength was mediocre—only at the first rank of the Spirit Leaf Realm. Dressed in an ornate brocade robe, his hair bound with a headband, his attire marked him as one of the Dong family.

As he was about to enter the house, I feared missing the opportunity—especially since there was no one else nearby—so I leapt down from the wall.

He hadn't even reacted before I covered his mouth and dragged him aside. The difference between the first and second ranks of the Spirit Leaf Realm was vast; no matter how he struggled, it was futile.

I led him behind the artificial rock by the pond, pressed a dagger to his throat, and feigned fierceness. “I ask a question, you answer. If you call for help, you’re the first to die.”

He was terrified, utterly convinced by my words, and nodded frantically.

“Are you a member of the Dong family?”

I had already guessed as much, but it was better to be sure. I slowly removed my hand from his mouth, dagger still at his throat.

“Yes, I am. My name is Dong Jiarui.”

I nodded lightly and asked, “Do you know where the bodies of those maids are kept?”

“I do. All their bodies are stored in a warehouse in the backyard.”

Dong Jiarui was still nervous, sweat streaming down his face as he replied.

“Why are there so few people here in the Dong estate?”

“The elders took the younger members to visit a nearby sect. I didn’t want to go, so they left me to look after the house.”

So that’s how it was. Otherwise, how could such a huge estate be guarded only by this weakling?

Still, I worried he might be lying, so I threatened him, “Dare to lie to me?”

“No, no, I wouldn’t dare! They’re really all gone...”

Hearing this, I was reassured. I hauled him up and said, “Take me to the warehouse in the backyard. I need to find someone’s body.”

Dong Jiarui trembled, unable to meet my gaze, his legs shaking.

“Listen, I’ll leave as soon as I get what I want. Otherwise, I’ll kill you.”

I pressed the dagger tightly to his throat, drawing blood.

He nodded, so I let him lead the way. Dong Jiarui was quite clever; to avoid attracting attention, he took me through small paths.

Along the way, I saw countless treasures—calligraphy, weapons, jewelry, everything imaginable.

Yet, unease gnawed at me, for things were going too smoothly.

Fortunately, we reached the warehouse without incident.

Dong Jiarui had already taken out the keys and clutched them in his sweaty palm.

“Young master... what’s your name?” he asked as he unlocked the door.

“None of your business. Hurry up,” I replied, striking him with the flat of my blade. He shuddered in pain.

As the door opened, a rich but pleasant fragrance wafted out.

“This is our family’s ancestral preservative. Smells nice, doesn’t it?” Dong Jiarui was finally less afraid, even eager to chat. I said nothing and followed him inside.

Though I had braced myself, the sight shocked me.

This small warehouse contained dozens of bodies, male and female, all neatly laid out on wooden boards. The girls were all young, just like Nangong Xi—each one lovely.

I inspected them row by row, and at the very end, I saw that familiar face.

I had Dong Jiarui walk ahead, following closely behind.