Chapter 471: Eerie Aura

The moment Li An stepped into the great hall of the Nurarihyon Group, dozens of pairs of eyes glowing with ghostly light shot toward him from every direction, piercing his body like cold blades. These yokai came in all shapes—some with tusks, some with wings sprouting from their backs—and every one of them radiated a powerful, eerie aura that made the very air turn grave.

"Hmph, human. What gall you have, daring to break into the Nurarihyon Group's headquarters!" A voice like a great bell rang out, and Qing Qing Tianfang's massive figure slowly emerged from the shadows. He stood several zhang tall, his muscles bulging all over, towering before Li An like a small mountain, an overwhelming pressure crashing toward him.

Li An drew a deep breath, forcing himself to stay calm. He lifted his head slightly, met Qing Qing Tianfang's eyes, and said, "I've come here hoping to reach a cooperation with the Nurarihyon Group. The divine artifact in my hands may help you resolve some troubles, and all I ask in return is that you help me lift the curse on my beloved."

Qing Qing Tianfang gave a cold snort, a flash of contempt in his eyes. "You? A mere human, and you dare talk cooperation with us? Do you even know what kind of place the Nurarihyon Group is?" As he spoke, he stepped forward, and the ground trembled beneath him.

The surrounding yokai also began to murmur among themselves—some let out mocking laughter, others bared fierce gazes, as though ready to tear Li An to shreds at any moment.

"This human is far too naive, actually thinking he can cooperate with us."

"He's probably here to trick our trust and then snatch the divine artifact."

"Kill him and take the artifact!"

Li An's expression shifted slightly; he knew he faced an enormous challenge. But he did not retreat. Instead, he straightened his back and declared loudly, "I know you hold prejudices against humans, but I, Li An, stake my life on it—I mean no harm whatsoever. To save A-Yao, I will pay any price!" His voice was firm and strong, echoing through the great hall.

Nurarihyon Lu Sheng stood to one side, quietly observing everything. He wore a splendid kimono, his long silver hair glimmering faintly in the darkness, his gaze deep and cool—utterly impossible to read.

"Qing Qing Tianfang, don't be so quick to act." Nurarihyon Lu Sheng finally spoke. His voice was low and magnetic, like a calm lake hiding raging undercurrents beneath. "Let's hear what he has to say first."

Though reluctant, Qing Qing Tianfang stepped back to one side, his eyes still fixed tightly on Li An, brimming with wariness.

Li An let out a slight breath of relief—he knew this was his chance. He began to recount in detail his experiences with Guo Yao, and all the efforts he had made to find a way to lift the curse. A slight tremor crept into his voice, and endless devotion welled in his eyes.

"…her, I would give up everything. I've crossed countless anime worlds, endured countless hardships to find this artifact. I believe only by cooperating can we bring out its full power." As Li An spoke, a determined light gleamed in his eyes.

Some yokai, after hearing Li An's account, showed a flicker of emotion in their eyes. Yuki-onna stood quietly to one side; her gaze was full of gentleness, and as she looked at Li An, a touch of admiration crept into her eyes.

"He truly is deeply devoted to his beloved." Yuki-onna said softly, her voice as enchanting as a heavenly melody, yet tinged with a faint sorrow.