I'm modifying myself into the ultimate demon.

Chapter 141 (Revised): I Became a Zombie!!!

Chen Mo drank a lot of wine and said a lot of things.

After dinner, Chen Mo carried Xiaoyuer on his shoulders and ran around the yard with him. Xiaoyuer happily opened his arms and called out "Wuhu!"

"Brother, I feel like I'm flying here. Faster!"

"Brother, take me flying!"

The family stood under the eaves, watching the brother and sister run laps around the courtyard. They heard Xiaoyuer's long-lost joyful cries and saw the radiant smile on Chen Mo's face.

Zhang Ru leaned against the doorframe, watching the brother and sister running around. She was captivated by the warmth of the scene and thought to herself: "It's only after the second young master recovered from his madness that the family has become so harmonious. The second young master is truly a charming person."

Chen Wu watched from the side, chuckling to himself.

Haitang watched, a strange smile on her face. She wasn't a member of the Chen family, and was just a maid, but seeing such a heartwarming scene, she couldn't help but smile.

Seeing their children getting along so well, Lin Yulan and Chen Yinfu were deeply moved, and tears inexplicably welled up in their eyes.

They knew very well that the Chen family's current peace was all thanks to Chen Mo.

After running around for a while, Xiaoyuer got a little scared. "Brother, you're too fast. I'm a little scared."

"Haha."

Chen Mo put Xiaoyuer down, but Xiaoyuer still clung to him. "Brother, I learned a few poems today, and I wrote some calligraphy. My teacher praised me. Can I go to your room and show you the calligraphy?"

Chen Mo pinched Xiaoyuer's cheek and then picked him up. "Okay. Today, I'll check your homework to see if you've been slacking off."

“I’m very attentive. All the other kids are eating snacks during class, but only me and a girl named Yunxi didn’t eat any.” Xiaoyuer ran to her room to get her schoolbag, slung it over her shoulder, and then took Chen Mo’s hand, skipping and hopping out of the courtyard.

As Chen Mo reached the door, he turned back to Chen Wu and said, "Xiao Wu, take your big sword and come to the East Courtyard. I'll test your knowledge too."

Upon hearing that his second brother was going to test his studies, Chen Wu didn't feel awkward at all. Instead, he felt cared for and immediately became excited, nodding emphatically: "Yes."

Chen Mo led Xiao Yu'er to the main room in the east courtyard, where Qiu Lan lit the lamps.

The weather in June wasn't so cold anymore, so there was no need for a stove to keep warm. Qiulan then brought out some snacks that Xiaoyuer liked.

Little Fish said, "You can't eat snacks while doing your homework."

Qiulan smiled.

Chen Mo gave Qiu Lan a look, and she left. Only Chen Mo and Xiao Yu'er remained in the main room. Xiao Yu'er very seriously took out the books from his schoolbag.

It mainly consists of storybooks, picture books, and simple reading materials such as the Three Character Classic and the Thousand Character Classic. Occasionally, there are also a few poems.

Xiaoyuer then took out these books and began reading them in front of Chen Mo. He then took out a pen and ink and began to write them down from memory.

After blowing away the ink, Xiaoyuer excitedly handed the Xuan paper to Chen Mo: "Brother, what do you think of my calligraphy?"

Chen Mo was clearly bald and had a fierce face, but Xiao Yu'er wasn't afraid.

Chen Mo took the Xuan paper and looked at it, expecting to see scribbles. But he found that Xiao Yu'er's handwriting was excellent. In just a few months since he started learning, he already knew so many characters, could understand simple poems, and even wrote such good characters.

It's clear that Xiaoyuer is talented and has put in a lot of hard work.

"Good handwriting. I didn't expect my little fish to be so good at studying. Bring me a pen, I'll write you a few lines of poetry." Chen Mo suddenly had an idea and asked the little fish to grind the ink.

Little Fish was short and weak, so grinding the ink was a bit of a struggle for him, but he still ground it very carefully. Just then, Chen Wu walked in carrying a knife, took the ink stick, and told Little Fish to watch over it. "Brother, what poem do you want to write?"

Chen Mo took the wolf-hair brush, glanced at the crescent moon in the sky, and said, "Today it's just the three of us siblings. There are no outsiders. So I'll write a poem for my younger brother and sister as a memento."

Pick up the pen and let the ink flow freely.

Although the calligraphy isn't particularly good, it's written very neatly.

When will the moon be clear and bright? I raise my cup to ask the heavens. I wonder what year it is tonight in the celestial palace. I long to ride the wind and return, yet I fear the jade towers and crystal palaces are too cold at such heights. I dance with my shadow, how can it compare to being in the mortal world?

The moon shines through the red pavilion, lowers its light through the embroidered window, illuminating my sleepless night. There should be no resentment, yet why is the moon always full when we are apart? People experience sorrow and joy, separation and reunion; the moon waxes and wanes, and such things have always been imperfect. I only wish that we may all live long and share the beauty of the moon, even from afar.

As soon as he put pen to paper, Little Fish clapped excitedly: "Great poem!!"

Chen Wu forgot to speak. He had read more books than Xiao Yu'er, and at that moment he felt a chill run down his spine. It was just too well written. It perfectly captured the scene of a family reuniting after separation.

Wow.

Little Fish immediately rolled up the Xuan paper: "Brother, I'll accept this poem. I'll take it to the academy and show it to the teacher later."

Chen Mo didn't mind and continued to test Chen Wu's martial arts skills.

It was clear that Chen Wu's swordsmanship and footwork were solid, showing he had put in a lot of effort. However, his talent wasn't particularly high, and his progress wasn't as good as those of the geniuses. Chen Mo still gave him his approval.

After checking his younger siblings' homework, Xiaoyuer was a little tired. He nestled in Chen Mo's arms and murmured, "May we all live long and share the beauty of the moon, even though we are thousands of miles apart. Brother, we will be together for the rest of our lives, right?"

Chen Mo couldn't bear to tell the truth: "Yes."

Chen Wu was more perceptive and vaguely realized that Chen Mo was about to do something big, but since Xiao Yu'er was there, Chen Wu didn't say anything.

Before long, Xiaoyuer fell asleep in Chen Mo's arms.

Chen Mo then picked up Xiaoyuer and took her back, while Chen Wu took Xiaoyuer's schoolbag and followed behind.

After leaving the east courtyard, Chen Wu spoke up: "These past few months, Xiaoyuer has been studying and learning to read very diligently, and he's not playful anymore. He's matured early."

Chen Mo hummed in agreement. Although he felt a little sorry for Xiaoyuer for being so precocious, he also knew that in such chaotic times, it was better to be sensible early.

Xiaoyuer was still living with his second aunt. Chen Mo entered the courtyard, greeted his second aunt, put Xiaoyuer on the bed, covered him with a quilt, and then left.

Chen Wu chased after him to the door: "Brother, are you going to do something big? And something really dangerous?"

Chen Mo stopped abruptly, turned around to look at Chen Wu, who was two heads shorter than him, thought for a moment, and then said, "It is a bit dangerous."

Chen Wu said, "I'm afraid it's not just a little threat, but the possibility that I might not be able to come back, right? Don't worry, brother, I won't tell our parents or anyone else."

Chen Mo hadn't expected his younger brother to have grown so much and become so perceptive.

Since we're brothers, there are some things that are inconvenient to say to others, so we can say them now.

"Xiao Wu is quite perceptive. I won't hide it from you. This matter is indeed very dangerous, and I might not be able to come back."

Chen Wu whispered, "I knew it, I knew it..."

As he spoke, tears began to fall from Chen Wu's eyes.

Chen Mo stepped forward and stroked Chen Wu's head. "My good brother, don't cry. There are some things I can't escape, and I have to face them sooner or later. I love this family very much. I love my parents and my stepmother. I also love you and Xiaoyuer. If I can't come back, I entrust this family to you."

Chen Wu nodded emphatically: "I understand. But, brother, you must come back."

"I try my best."

Chen Mo left a message and turned to leave.

As Chen Wu watched that figure leave, his vision blurred with tears.

A moment later, Zhang Ru came out of the courtyard. "Xiao Wu, why are you crying?"

Chen Wu said, "It's nothing. It's just some sand that got in."

……

Chen Mo returned to the East Courtyard, tidied himself up briefly, and then told Qiu Lan that he had to go out for a while. If anything happened at home, he should go to Tangjiabao to find Tang Tongshan.

Chen Mo left the Chen residence late at night.

He took one last look at the walls of the Chen residence, then turned and left, leaving the city that very night and arriving at the residence of the Green Wolf Gang.

Chen Mo closed the door, took out a two-foot oval mirror, lit incense, and woke up Su Yuqing inside.

Su Yuqing still spoke with a hint of resentment, "Why did you wake me up in the middle of the night, young master?"

Chen Mo didn't mince words and said directly, "I didn't realize you were the eldest princess of the previous dynasty."

Although Su Yuqing was wearing a red veil, she visibly stiffened, clearly not expecting Chen Mo to know.

Soon, Su Yuqing became somewhat agitated: "Young Master already knows. It's not that I'm hiding it from you, but I can't tell you. Otherwise, I would be harming you."

Chen Mo did not doubt this. He stood in front of the incense table and stared at the woman with the red veil on it.

After a long, long time, Chen Mo finally spoke, "Do you know that the Red Lantern Goddess received a red lantern from Jiang Hongyue, absorbed the breath within the red lantern, and thus turned into a zombie?"

Su Yuqing shook her head: "I don't know. I suffered a calamity in the Dayin Mountain and was separated from my second mother ever since. I know nothing about what happened to my second mother or whether she turned into a ghost."

Chen Mo didn't dwell on the detail. "As long as I become a zombie, I can hear you tell that ghost story, right?"

Su Yuqing noticed the seriousness in Chen Mo's eyes and dared not joke anymore, saying, "It's highly likely."

Chen Mo asked, "What is your basis?"

Turning into a zombie is a serious matter, and Chen Mo naturally needs to be aware of it. He doesn't want to end up as a zombie himself, still unable to bear hearing that ghost story. That would be a complete disaster.

Su Yuqing said, "I can sense that this ghost story contains a power that transcends mere invocation. It is a higher level of ghostly power. Zombies are not afraid of being corrupted by ghostly power. However, if the difference is too great, they will also be affected. I cannot guarantee it. But if you can become a nine-striped white zombie, you should be able to listen to it. But I cannot guarantee your safety."

Nine-striped white zombie?

Isn't that even more powerful than the Red Lantern Goddess?

Chen Mo continued, "What is the power of attraction?"

Su Yuqing said, "The Yellow Pages Ghost already possesses the power of awareness. And the even more powerful Shadow Ghost can not only wield a higher level of awareness, but if given the right talent and a certain opportunity, it might even master a second, terrifying power of ghosts: summoning..."

With Su Yuqing's detailed explanation, Chen Mo finally understood the difference between inspiration and the power of awakening.

First, no matter how strong the power of awakening is, it can only be a stronger power of awakening, with better effects. It might even affect shadow ghosts and beings in the Transcendent Realm. However, it cannot awaken the power of summoning.

The power of attraction is the second type of power of powerful ghosts. For example, Su Yuqing can pull people who come into contact with the mirror into the mirror world, which is the power of attraction.

Moreover, its appeal is immense and its reach is vast.

Su Yuqing estimated that the curse effect brought about by ghost stories should be a stronger power of attraction, or a ghostly power beyond attraction.

Zombies are immune to the power of perception.

Su Yuqing was unsure whether she would be affected by the power of inspiration.

After listening, Chen Mo fell into a long silence.

After some thought, it seems that no better solution has been found.

Finally, Chen Mo said, "If I become a zombie, you can use your summoning power to test me. If your summoning power has little effect on me, then I'll be more comfortable listening to ghost stories."

Su Yuqing was taken aback. "Young Master's thinking is indeed meticulous, but... does Young Master really intend to become a zombie?"

"Okay, I've made up my mind. You seem to know a lot about zombies? Tell me everything you know. For example, what you need to be careful about when turning into a zombie. Especially since you mentioned before that if you do it properly, your appearance won't change much when you turn into a zombie, you need to emphasize that."

Chen Mo still cares about appearance.

After all, he was a time traveler. In his previous life, he had seen Uncle Ying's movies, and the zombies in them looked just like the Bad Guy.

Turn yourself into a rogue leader?
That's absolutely unacceptable.

Besides, zombies do have many advantages.

Phew.

Su Yuqing suddenly laughed, "It seems Young Master Mo still cares a lot about appearance. My understanding of zombies comes from the records I read in the imperial treasury when I was a princess. There were three key points mentioned in them."

Firstly, the key to becoming a zombie lies in obtaining that breath, which is the zombie pattern.

Secondly, upon becoming a zombie, the body undergoes a tremendous transformation, with the soul and body merging into a single, unyielding entity. Even if the head is shattered, consciousness remains. The body is immortal, and the soul is indestructible. However, controlling the powerful zombie runes requires immense mental strength. Ordinary scions of noble families cannot achieve this; it requires the spiritual preservation techniques of their respective clans.

Chen Mo carefully took notes and, after comparing them with the information he had gathered, felt that what Su Yuqing said was probably true.

Why did the Red Lantern Lady desperately try to kill those who had cultivated the Spirit Preservation Technique? Especially herself, a Second-Level Spirit Preservation Technique user... It was because she wanted to reclaim her Spirit Preservation Technique, presumably to suppress the zombie's zombie markings.

What will happen if the stiffness lines can't be suppressed?

Su Yuqing said, "According to the records in the Imperial Palace Treasury, if one's spirit cannot suppress the stiffness patterns, one will completely lose control. One's physical form will transform into a monster, becoming a monster that only kills and eats people and spreads corpse energy."

Chen Mo was taken aback.

Isn't this just a zombie?

That's so perverted...

It seems I absolutely cannot lose control.

The stiff patterns... Chen Mo could seize the Red Lantern Goddess's spirit preservation technique... but he didn't know if the Red Lantern's spirit preservation technique could suppress the eight stiff patterns. He'd have to ask the Red Lantern Goddess later.

"And the third one?"

Su Yuqing said, "Even if the mental energy suppresses the zombie markings, the white zombie's physical body cannot be completely identical to a normal human. It will still smell of decay, and when it opens its mouth, it will reveal rows of fangs. Its nails will also grow longer. There's nothing that can be done about it. To make its appearance completely like a human, there are only two ways. Either it evolves into a more powerful black zombie and reaches a hundred years of cultivation. Its teeth and nails can then extend and retract freely, and the smell of decay will disappear. It will basically be just like a normal person. Even disciples of aristocratic families won't be able to tell the difference."

Black zombies and shadow ghosts are on the same level. They correspond to extraordinary experts in the Transcendent Realm of humans.

Chen Mo felt that even if he absorbed the eight zombie patterns of the Red Lantern Lady, it would be almost impossible for him to evolve into a black zombie in one go.

What is the second option?

Su Yuqing said, "The second method is to consume a Youth Preservation Pill. It can keep your physical body in the state it was before you became a zombie. However, the effect of the Youth Preservation Pill is limited, lasting for about three years. During this period, you cannot use the power of a zombie to fight. Once you have fought, the Youth Preservation Pill will become ineffective."

...This youth-preserving pill is quite good. "Do you have any youth-preserving pills?"

Su Yuqing shook her head: "No. This thing is extremely rare. I estimate that only the Shen family, the Tang family, and the Demon Suppression Bureau in Nanyang Prefecture possess it. Moreover, they are all their most treasured possessions."

Chen Mo wrote them down one by one: "Is there anything else you'd like to add?"

Su Yuqing thought carefully for a moment, then shook her head: "I only saw this much useful information in the palace treasury. The rest... is nothing."

"Thank you very much."

Chen Mo found some burlap, wrapped the mirror up again, and hid it under the bed.

Arriving at the living room doorway, gazing at the crescent moon in the sky, thoughts began to linger:

Skin wrinkles, anti-aging pills, spirit preservation methods...

Indispensable.

"Tomorrow, when Master returns, we'll ask Tang Family Fortress if they have any Youth Preservation Pills."

Chen Mo knew that overthinking was pointless, so he cleared his mind of distractions and began cultivating the True Fire of the Aristocratic Family and the Dragon Elephant Technique.

"After the duel with the Red Lantern Lady, I feel that I have improved a lot in all aspects. My True Fire is also close to the perfect level. After a few more days of cultivation, I should be able to start trying to break through to the Blood Mist level. As for the Dragon Elephant Technique, I haven't even reached the first level of the Great Perfection yet."

……

The next day.

Chen Mo was awakened early by a knock on the door. He quickly got up and opened it, only to find that it was his master.

Tang Binghu was carrying large and small bags of gifts, mostly meat and snacks.

Chen Mo, filled with curiosity, asked, "Master, what is this...?"

Tang Binghu smiled faintly, "It's nothing. It's just that your master suddenly felt like he hadn't taken good care of you since taking you as his disciple. So he asked Miss Ziyu and found out some of your favorite snacks and foods, and asked the head chef of Tang Family Fort to make some and send them to you. Young people shouldn't always be thinking about practicing martial arts. Eat and drink as you please. Enjoying the present moment is also part of life."

They welcomed Tang Binghu into the room and watched as he laid out various snacks and dishes.

Chen Mo felt a strange sensation in his heart.

It feels like a doctor knows a patient has a terminal illness and then tells the patient: "What do you want to eat? What do you want to drink? What do you want to do?..." and then let the patient do it.

Could it be that Tang Xianhe told Tang Binghu about his situation?
That's reasonable.

After all, Tang Binghu was his master.

Chen Mo didn't point it out, and accepted them with a smile: "Thank you for your concern, Master. I like them all."

Tang Binghu put down his things but didn't leave. "Eat if you like. You don't have to treat me like an outsider."

Okay~
Chen Mo sat down and ate a few bites.

Tang Binghu stood to the side, a gratified smile on his face. "If you want anything else to eat, just tell your master."

Chen Mo was touched and nodded in agreement.

After having some snacks, Tang Binghu took Chen Mo out to patrol the Green Wolf Gang area, telling Chen Mo some interesting stories about the gang's past while occasionally letting out an awkward laugh.

Chen Mo knew... Tang Binghu definitely knew. The reason he did this was simply to make himself happier and relieve himself of so much pressure.

This master really put his heart into it.

So, even though his master was laughing awkwardly, Chen Mo laughed awkwardly along with him.

During this time, many members of the gang came up to greet him, their attitude full of respect.

Back at Tang Binghu's villa, Tang Binghu even gave Chen Mo some pointers on the Dragon Elephant Technique. The morning passed quickly, and Tang Binghu had a sumptuous lunch prepared. During the meal, Chen Mo asked, "Master, does Tang Family Fortress have any Youth-Preserving Pills?"

Tang Binghu was taken aback: "A youth-preserving pill? Why are you asking about that?"

Chen Mo said, "I heard it from someone else. It is said that the Youth Preservation Pill can maintain one's appearance."

Tang Binghu said, "That's true. However, the Youth Preservation Pill is extremely precious, and only the Demon Suppression Division of the Imperial Court supplies it. It is mostly given to the scions of noble families who use the power of ghosts to maintain their appearance. Our Tang Family Fort has served the Demon Suppression Division for many years, and we have only obtained two Youth Preservation Pills. Even Father is reluctant to use them."

Chen Mo was still struggling to find an excuse, but his master offered it to him without hesitation...

"To be honest, Master, when I fought the Red Lantern Goddess, I overused the power of the ghosts, and now the ghosts are seriously corrupting me. I'm worried that my appearance will change, so as not to scare people. It doesn't matter if I lose face, the main thing is to lose face for you, Master."

Tang Binghu was very surprised, "Besides the risk of changes in appearance, could there be other symptoms?"

Chen Mo shook his head: "No, Tang Baozhu took my pulse before."

Tang Binghu still trusted Tang Xianhe's methods, and immediately nodded: "That's not difficult. I'll have Tang Lei make a trip to Tang Family Fort in a bit and have him bring the Youth Preservation Pill."

"Thank you, Master."

"We're family, so let's not speak like that. As long as you're well, I'll be happy."

After the meal, Tang Binghu wrote a letter and handed it to Tang Lei, asking him to go to Tang Family Fortress to see the Fortress Master.

In just over two hours, Tang Lei returned, carrying a brocade box in his hand.

Tang Binghu took the brocade box, opened it, and checked it over. After confirming that there were no problems, he handed it to Chen Mo: "This is the Youth Preservation Pill. Take it and take it. If you need anything else, just tell your master. Don't be shy."

Chen Mo cupped his hands in thanks: "Thank you, Master. By the way, Master, I plan to find a secluded place to cultivate in seclusion for a while."

Tang Binghu was quite surprised, "Wouldn't it be better to go into seclusion in the Green Wolf Gang?"

Chen Mo said, "After all, I need to suppress the erosion of the ghost bones. If it triggers too much ghost energy, it won't be good if the members of the gang see it. If some people with ulterior motives go around talking about it, it will only bring trouble to our gang."

Tang Binghu thought this made sense. "That's easy. I'll take you to Tang Family Fort for seclusion. It's full of disciples from my Tang family, and several outstanding leaders are using ghostly power, so it definitely won't leak out."

Chen Mo knew he had to refuse, so he stood up and cupped his hands in greeting: "I know Master means well, but I haven't made any contributions to the gang yet. If I go to Tang Family Fortress for seclusion because of this, I'm afraid it will cause criticism among the clan members, which will put Master in a difficult position. I'm used to being idle, and I'd rather find a secluded place to be at ease. Please grant my request, Master."

Tang Binghu stared blankly at his disciple.

He's just a bit simple-minded, but not stupid.

Knowing that it was now imperative to bring it up, he asked, "But has that ghost bone from Jiang Hongyue undergone some changes?"

Chen Mo said, "Yes. But I feel I can suppress it. Master, don't overthink it."

Tang Binghu stepped forward and helped Chen Mo up with both hands: "My good disciple, I know what you're thinking. You're probably thinking... if the ghost bone goes out of control, it might bring disaster to my Tang Family Fortress. Since I've taken you in as my disciple, I've treated you like my son. No matter what you become in the future, no matter if your ghost bone goes out of control, you will always be my good disciple. As your master, I will always protect you. I will never abandon you. Do you understand?"

Chen Mo's eyes burned slightly: "I know. But... I have my own plans, and I ask Master to grant them my request."

Tang Binghu breathed a sigh of relief. "Very well, since you are determined to do so, I will naturally grant your wish."

After saying that, Tang Binghu took out a white talisman from his personal pocket and handed it to Chen Mo: "This is my talisman, infused with a wisp of my spirit. If you encounter any situation, immediately burn this talisman. I will come over as soon as possible. The sensing range is about a hundred miles. Don't go too far."

Chen Mo took the talisman and saw that it was decorated with the Six Ding and Six Jia, as well as his master's portrait.

"Thank you, Master. I will remember this."

Tang Binghu waved his hand: "Go."

"My disciple is leaving."

Chen Mo bowed in farewell and returned to his courtyard, where he took out a mirror from under his bed and tied it to his back. Since Shen Yujun's large halberd had been shattered by the Red Lantern Goddess, Chen Mo was now unarmed. He simply took an ordinary broadsword and carried it on his back.

Then he summoned Lu Chengzhuang, gave him a few instructions, and then led a horse toward the gate of the Green Wolf Gang.

When Chen Mo arrived at the door, he saw his master standing there.

Chen Mo saw the gray in his master's temples and felt a pang of reluctance.

"Take care, Master. I will return after a period of seclusion."

"Remember your master's instructions. When you encounter insurmountable obstacles, don't try to bear them alone. You need to remember that you are not alone. You have your master behind you... and the entire Tangjiabao."

“Your disciple remembers.”

Chen Mo mounted his horse and rode away.

drive! !

Tang Binghu stood at the entrance of the Green Wolf Gang, his robes fluttering in the wind, but his eyes were somewhat bloodshot.

“What a good disciple. You chose to shoulder the burden alone so as not to implicate Tang Family Fortress. You have treated Tang Family Fortress so well, how could Tang Family Fortress let you down? So we will treat you the same way.”

……

drive! !

Chen Mo spurred his horse and galloped all the way, crossing mountains and valleys, heading towards the direction where Juan'er was.

Soon we arrived at Dazexiang and came to the dock.

I met the old owner of the fish market.

The old shopkeeper, surnamed Li, had long known that Chen Mo was no ordinary person, and immediately came forward to greet him: "Young Master Mo, what brings you here today?"

Chen Mo didn't mince words: "Shopkeeper, do you have any spare sampans?"

Shopkeeper Li chuckled and said, "Yes, yes. Is Young Master Mo heading to the port?"

"Yeah, I have something to take care of outside."

"Young Master Mo, please follow me. There is also a covered boat, which will be convenient for you."

"No need, a sampan will suffice."

The old shopkeeper dared not refute, and led Chen Mo to a sampan at the dock, saying, "Should we find a boatman for Young Master Mo?"

"No need. If this boat is lost, I'll have the gang members send you money later, consider it as me buying it." Chen Mo jumped onto the boat, then activated his true fire and steered the sampan out of the dock.

Behind them came Manager Li's laughter: "It's just a boat, Young Master Mo, please don't stand on ceremony with me."

Chen Mo ignored them, stood at the bow, and steered the boat towards Juan'er's direction, enjoying the scenery on both banks. He couldn't help but recall the scene where he parted ways with Xiao Ye here.

That scene, so poetic and picturesque, always evokes a warm feeling in my heart whenever I recall it, leaving me with endless aftertaste.

Thinking about how he was about to become a zombie, Chen Mo felt a mix of emotions.

This damned world truly offers no way for people to survive.

But the world is not all cold and indifferent.

He also had the love and support of his family, and the concern of his master. All of this made Chen Mo feel that the world wasn't so cold.

But Chen Mo has his own path to walk and things he has to do out of necessity.

"I hope that after I become a zombie, my appearance won't change significantly thanks to the Youth Preservation Pill. If my appearance changes, I won't be able to go back to the Green Wolf Gang and the Chen Mansion. I'll just be a wandering ghost, being chased and hunted down as a zombie everywhere... That would be truly tragic."

But Chen Mo had already prepared for the worst.

The Youth-Preserving Pill is good, but the Red Lantern Lady is, after all, an eight-patterned zombie. Whether it will work... we really can't be too optimistic.

If one's appearance cannot be preserved, then one can only go outside to develop, and once one has developed to the point of becoming a black zombie... and regains one's appearance, then return home and Tang Family Fortress.

Fortunately, I have Juan'er.

It's not that I'm completely alone.

Ok?
Just then, Chen Mo suddenly sensed someone behind him. He immediately turned around and was shocked to find a small boat with two middle-aged men dressed as fishermen fishing along the river.

Is the Huai River that big?
Is it really such a coincidence?
Chen Mo immediately slowed down the boat and changed direction.

The fishing boat followed again.

Chen Mo sensed something was wrong and steered his sampan toward the covered boat. When he got close, he stomped a large hole in the bottom of the sampan and said with a smile, "Are you two fishermen from around here?"

A tall fisherman said, "Yes, my name is Liang, and this is my younger brother Kuan. We're out fishing. Young master, you are quite handsome; are you just passing through?"

Chen Mo laughed and said, "Yes. My sampan is taking on water. Would it be convenient for you to take a ride for a while?"

Ah Liang and Ah Kuan exchanged a glance, then smiled at Chen Mo and said, "Of course it's convenient, young master, please come aboard."

Chen Mo jumped onto the sampan, and in no time the sampan began to sink with a "glug-glug" sound.

Ah Liang and Ah Kuan glanced at the sinking sampan and didn't think much of it. Ah Liang laughed and said, "Young master looks like a rich young master. Ah Kuan, quickly go and get some tea for the young master to drink and warm himself up. Young master, please come and sit down in the awning."

Chen Mo followed the two into the awning and sat down, taking a brief look around.

This awning boat is also very exquisite, and it is fully equipped with all kinds of daily necessities.

This is hardly a boat that fishermen would need.
Chen Mo didn't point it out, and while taking the teacup from A-Kuan, asked, "Where are you two planning to go?"

Ah Liang said, "We just fish along the river, but today's catch wasn't good, so we're planning to go further down the river... Young master, what are you doing?"

Before A Liang could finish speaking, Chen Mo grabbed his wrist and pulled him so hard that his head was slammed onto the table. "Tell me, why were you following me?"

Ah Liang was shocked: "I don't know what you're talking about, young master... My brother and I are fishermen from around here..."

Bang.

With a sudden "crack," Chen Mo's hand tightened, and Ah Liang's brains splattered out, killing him instantly. Ah Kuan's face was covered in brain matter and scalding blood.

"Ah!! Murder!!"

A-Kuan was so frightened that he sat down on the ground and ran away, but he hadn't gone two steps before Chen Mo stepped on his head: "Two ninth-level martial artists, here to fish? Why have you been following me all this way? Tell me, and I'll spare your life. Otherwise, you'll be on your way to the Yellow Springs to join your brother."

Ah-Kuan was so frightened that he almost couldn't catch his breath.

Chen Mo's power was simply too overwhelming, and coupled with his ruthless and decisive killing of A Liang just now, A Kuan was already terrified: "No, don't kill me. I'll talk... I'm from the Shen family. I was sent by Shen Qianshui, the eldest master of the Shen family, to follow you."

Shen family?

Chen Mo's pupils contracted: "Tell me in detail."

Ah Kuan said, "Previously, Master Shen sent Shen Qi and Ling He to Ningdu and Dayu counties to investigate the matter of Master Jin Guang. However, the two have not been found to this day. So Master Shen continued to send people to investigate. Later, he heard that Tang Xianhe had personally gone to Daze Township, so he sent people to inquire. They learned that Tang Binghu had taken on a disciple. This aroused Master Shen's curiosity, since Tang Binghu had not taken on any disciples for many years. So he sent Ah Liang and me to infiltrate the Qinglang Gang area of ​​Daze Township to investigate. We learned that the young master was bald. Master Shen suspected that the young master was Master Jin Guang, so he sent us to follow the young master to see what he was up to."

I see……

Chen Mo asked, "Is there anything else to add?"

Ah Kuan was terrified: "I've told you everything I need to say. Please, sir, spare my life."

"Since you've already said that, what use are you to me?"

Click!

He stomped on Ah Kuan's head and crushed it.

Brain matter was splattered all over the ground.

"The Shen family has their eyes on me! I've long heard that the Shen family has been thriving in recent years, putting immense pressure on Tangjiabao. Once I become a zombie, I'll settle accounts with you sooner or later." Chen Mo snorted.

"However, I still need time to develop and lie dormant, so I can't leave any traces."

Chen Mo threw the two corpses into the Huai River to feed the fish, then stomped several large holes in the awning boat. Watching the awning boat sink to the bottom of the water, Chen Mo finally breathed a sigh of relief, used his True Fire Lightness Skill, and walked away on the water.

After walking for a while, Chen Mo realized he was putting on an act.

Using his lightness skill over a long distance was too taxing on his true fire. He quickly felt tired. Finally, he simply went ashore and sped along the mountains on both sides of the river. After traveling more than ten miles, Chen Mo arrived at the familiar swamp and found the familiar awning boat.

From afar, we could see Juan'er squatting alone at the bow of the boat, lost in thought.

"Juan'er".

Chen Mo called out.

Upon hearing the familiar voice, Juan'er immediately stood up and looked around. When she saw Chen Mo, she was overjoyed and ran off the boat, quickly taking his arm: "Brother Mo, you've finally come. I've been all alone here, and it's not easy for me."

Chen Mo tapped Juan'er on the head: "Here I am. Have those two zombies made any unusual moves?"

Juan'er said with a grin, "No, I did everything I was told by Brother Mo. Whenever they made a sound, I would kick their butts hard."

"Haha."

Chen Mo boarded the awning boat with a loud laugh and, sure enough, saw that the Red Lantern Lady and the old man in black were still tied to the deck, perfectly fine.

Upon seeing Chen Mo again, the Red Lantern Lady immediately showed excitement in her eyes.

She has a mission to fulfill; she cannot die here…

Chen Mo instructed Juan'er: "Juan'er, go and keep watch at a distance. No one is allowed to approach within a three-mile radius. Apart from acquaintances, kill any outsiders who come. If you can't kill them, shout for me."

"Okay. I'm going." Juan'er was obedient and immediately ran off to stand guard.

Chen Mo then walked up to the Red Lantern Goddess and sat down cross-legged.

Open the panel.

They examined the Red Lantern Goddess and the Old Man in Black separately.

The Red Lantern Lady is an eight-patterned white zombie, while the old man in black is a seven-patterned white zombie.

They are all formidable figures.

Click.

Chen Mo grabbed the old man in black.

The old man in black was startled: "What are you going to do? I... I didn't lay a hand on you. It was the Red Lantern Lady who did it."

This old man had witnessed Chen Mo's ferocious methods in the stone cave before. Even the eight-patterned Red Lantern Goddess had been defeated by this guy, and he was only a seven-patterned one. Moreover, his power was sealed, so he was really scared.

Chen Mo said, "I know you haven't laid a hand on me."

The old man in black finally breathed a sigh of relief: "That's right, I have no grudge against you, you don't need to cause me trouble... Ah!!"

boom! ! !
Before the old man in black could finish speaking, Chen Mo delivered a powerful punch imbued with the Dragon Elephant Skill, slamming it into the old man's head and creating a large crater.

Even so, the old man in black did not die and could still make sounds.

"Are you crazy? Why are you attacking me for no reason?"

"I want you to die!!!"

boom!
boom! !

Chen Mo naturally had his reasons for killing the old man.

This is the essence of the original explanation.

Having previously inquired with Su Yuqing and learned about the process of becoming a zombie, Chen Mo also obtained a youth-preserving pill from his master. However, these were merely Chen Mo's preparations, not his trump cards.

His trump card is naturally the essence of the original solution.

If we don't kill this old zombie, where will we get the original essence?
Moreover, the marks on his body are also useful. I'll test the waters with this seven-marked zombie first; it'll also make it easier to control.

"You're a madman, you're a fucking madman!! You're killing people indiscriminately..."

Boom boom boom!
Chen Mo didn't know how to kill a zombie.

But my master said that zombies are immortal and that pure power is effective.

After a dozen or so punches, the old man in black was reduced to a mangled mess.

But he didn't die.

It can still speak, and incidentally, it can also be revived.

Extremely weird.

Chen Mo's muscles bulged all over his body as he unleashed a barrage of powerful punches.

At this moment, the Red Lantern Goddess was also frightened by the divine power Chen Mo had shown. Thinking of currying favor with Chen Mo, she spoke up, "If you want to kill him, you only need to pry off the stiffness marks on his body."

What?
Can wrinkles be removed by peeling them off?
So... zombies aren't without weaknesses after all.

However, after a little thought, Chen Mo felt that it made a lot of sense.

The wrinkles on the skin come from the extra breath the zombie took.

Cutting off the zombie's mark is equivalent to taking away its last breath, and the zombie will naturally die.

How come my master didn't know about this method?

Chen Mo quickly discovered the reason.

The stiff lines on the old man's body flowed rapidly, constantly changing shape, flowing into his flesh and blood, and then disappearing.

No wonder...

Boom boom boom!
Chen Mo continued his relentless barrage of attacks.

He threw over a hundred punches. The force far exceeded the old man in black's healing speed, leaving him unable to recover.

The opponent's aura finally faded.

There was no movement.

The seven stiff marks on his body didn't move either.

Chen Mo pressed down on the seven stiff marks, which resembled seven talismans, each containing a hidden breath that hovered in Chen Mo's palm.

"So this is the extra breath that the zombie absorbed... Truly mysterious."

Just then, the panel moved.

[Original Solution Essence +40000]

[Currently available original solution essence: 40000]

As expected, the amount of original essence from zombies was much greater than that from ghosts.

Chen Mo sat down cross-legged, staring at the seven stiff lines on his palm.

Open the panel.

[Deconstructable material detected]

[Should we deconstruct it?]

Deconstruct!

Chen Mo made a thought, and with a splitting headache, lines of subtitles appeared.

【Name: White Skin Marks】

[Type: Water-based skin texture]

[Note 1: The zombie markings evolved from zombie energy and are the source of the zombie's life force.]

[Note 2: This zombie pattern originated from a Yin Water Corpse Demon. This old man was originally a ghost, but after absorbing the zombie's zombie energy, he slowly transformed into a zombie after decades of fusion, growing seven zombie patterns.]

[Ingredients: Yin Water Corpse Demon is a type of underwater zombie, also known as a Corpse Demon. The Corpse Demon itself is a nine-striped white zombie. This old man has not yet fully absorbed this zombie energy; if he does, he can grow into a nine-striped white zombie.]

[Characteristic: This stiff energy contains the corpse energy of the Great Yin Mountain, originating from the Great Yin Mountain.]

[Tip 1: This stiff energy is of relatively average quality. It costs 40000 original essence to modify your physique and make it compatible.]

[Tip 2: If you make any changes, the process is irreversible, and you will become a zombie.]

[Tip 3: The appearance will remain largely unchanged after the modification, but the teeth and nails will grow longer, and the body will smell like a corpse.]

[Note 4: Your current mental state cannot completely suppress these seven stiff patterns. If you modify it, you may experience an uncontrollable mental state.]

Overall: The situation is under control.

[Should we make changes?]

"Sure enough, the situation wasn't as good as I'd imagined, but it wasn't as bad either."

She looks similar to the Red Lantern Lady.

The only difference is that the fingernails and teeth are different, and there's also a putrid smell.

However, I have a youth-preserving pill. My appearance should be fine.

The smell of a corpse?
It shouldn't be too difficult to cover it up with some sachets or something.

The only problem is that a state of mental instability may occur. However, overall it is manageable and the risk is not significant.

It can be done.

Jiang Hongyue, it's all your fault!!
call!
Chen Mo breathed a long sigh of relief.

"Change it to a zombie, please!"

(End of this chapter)