“Mmmmm.” A soft mumbling moan came from behind Linlin’s duct taped mouth covering and TangShi exhaled in sagging relief. Her head swimming with dizziness at hearing her respond and thanking god that she was conscious and breathing still. It made her less alone in this predicament and gave her hope that Linlin could still recover.

“Did you think I killed her?” Rong started laughing, a cackling and manic sound, coming closer again and TangShi stiffened up, straightening her posture and brandished her weapon at him once more. Only Rong had enough of this game and he was no longer playing. He marched at her, and even though TangShi swung with...