Burning the Monster

Tonight in Shouling County was destined to be restless. Those who had bought demon-repelling talismans gathered in one room, afraid to close their eyes, fearing that the heart-stealing monster would attack in the middle of the night. Even those with talismans were on edge, let alone those without. Many people were filled with panic, barely daring to breathe. Xie Beihan casually placed the demon-repelling talisman aside and kept the talismans his sixth sister had given him close, then laid down to sleep.

Deeper into the night, a dark figure passed through the yamen and headed straight for Xie Beihan's room. Xie Beihan was sleeping soundly when suddenly, a guard outside shouted, "It's a monster! The monster is attacking!" Startled awake, Xie Beihan rushed out without even putting on his coat.