The sight was strange and unsettling—the attackers were clad in samurai attire, moving with precision and intent. Xu Fu's eyes flickered with light as he assessed the situation.
"They're coming toward me," he muttered. He realized that this wasn't a random attack. Originally, Yashida had intended to eliminate Zhen Lizi and leave it at that, but now there were other provocateurs to deal with. Judging by their attire, these new intruders were members of the Shouhe Society—the intended target of Xu Fu's mission this time.
"Starlight, Janeriko, hide nearby. I'll handle this," Xu Fu instructed, rushing toward the dozen or so warriors.
"Xu Fu…" Janeriko's voice carried worry. The samurai moved with alarming speed. If Xu Fu wasn't careful, he could be seriously injured.
"Zhen Lizi, don't worry. Xu Fu's strength is formidable," Starlight said calmly. She had witnessed his battles against the most powerful opponents, including the infamous Devourer of Planets.
"Don't worry about me," Xu Fu replied, moving with a familiar fluidity.
But something froze Zhen Lizi in place—there were two Xu Fus.
Janeriko's gaze followed the one walking toward them. "Is that… Xu Fu?"
"Yes, it's just his skill—a magic clone," Xu Fu explained.
"Right, Zhen Lizi. This is Xu Fu's magic," Starlight added. She had long been familiar with his abilities. Over time, she had learned to interpret his tricks and illusions.
"Oh… a clone," Zhen Lizi said, relief washing over her. Xu Fu's strange abilities were a comfort now.
Meanwhile, atop the rooftop, Sanada Shuichi observed the chaos below. He had ensured that the sacrificial hall's ceremony for Kenichi Hara proceeded smoothly, anticipating potential accidents.
Yet the unexpected happened. Intruders stormed the sacrificial hall, weapons drawn, aiming at the guests. These attackers had likely been arranged by the late Yashida. Originally, Yashida had intended to eliminate Zhen Lizi, though he hadn't planned it meticulously.
Sanada Shuichi immediately drew his bow, ready to defend. The Shadow Alliance, under his command, responded swiftly. The most critical responsibility was protecting Zhen Lizi, as per Kenichi Hara's original instructions.
The battle grew intense. The Shadow Alliance struggled against the continuous onslaught, and flames of conflict began to engulf the inner hall where Xu Fu and his allies had been moments ago. It was clear they needed to withdraw to safety—staying would be too dangerous.
Suddenly, another group appeared from afar. Their outfits were bizarre, almost monstrous, and their aura radiated violence and malice.
"Chijiao…" Sanada Shuichi whispered.
This was a faction from the East Dwarf Underground Society, rarely seen in public. Their power rivaled that of the Shouhe Society, and they were heavily armed with advanced weaponry and hidden techniques. Their strength made even one-on-one combat deadly.
Sanada Shuichi felt a measure of relief—the Chijiao group's goal aligned with his own. With their support, the intruders inside could be neutralized.
The combined forces of the Shadow Alliance and the Chijiao faction began to eliminate the intruders, restoring some order.
But at that moment, yet another group emerged—members of the Shouhe Society.
Sanada Shuichi's face darkened. The Shouhe Society had little reputation in the Eastern Dwarf Country, and now his subordinates were falling under their ruthless attacks. Their movements were eerie, bullets seemingly ineffective against them, and kunai strikes lethal.
"Damn it," he muttered. He prepared to confront them directly.
Unexpectedly, Xu Fu charged toward the Shouhe Society members.
"Your Excellency," Sanada Shuichi muttered in surprise. He knew Xu Fu had been specially invited by Yuan Qian Jianyi before his death. Seeing Xu Fu move with such precision, Shuichi realized he wasn't reckless—Xu Fu possessed unusual skills.
As Xu Fu engaged the Shouhe warriors, he disabled them effortlessly, employing techniques that looked almost supernatural.
Xu Fu's instincts were correct: the Shouhe Society had come for him. This time, the conflict was personal.