The mechanism wall abruptly halted in the middle of the passage, and the swirling black mist in the main chamber immediately found its target. It loomed over the three like a black wall with features, pressing down on them. The black mist from the side had already engulfed the candles, blocking their escape routes. The two massive clouds of black mist formed a pincer attack, and all they could hear was a faint rustling sound around them. Elder Liaochen urged, "Quick, use the candles to distract the evil spirit of the Black Buddha!" Zhegushao reached into his treasure pouch, only to realize with dismay that they had used up all their candles.
At this moment, the thick black mist was closing in on both sides. Just a slight touch could turn them into the skeleton in the corner. Zhegushao's eyes suddenly glinted with malice; he considered kicking the American priest, Thomas, out to use him as a stepping stone to leap into the tunnel beneath the Jade Gate.
Elder Liaochen noticed the veins on Zhegushao's forehead bulging and realized he was contemplating murder. He quickly grabbed Zhegushao's arm, saying, "You mustn't! Have you forgotten my repeated warnings? Tomb raiding harms your virtue; you must show mercy..."