Damn it all. Damn He Xuan’s insatiable need to consume. Damn the food that isn’t enough to sooth his hunger. Most of all, damn Crimson Rain for being the only thing that can.

It is like clockwork. With every opening of Mount Tongulu, He Xuan ventures into Ghost City, Crimson Rain’s red domain, violently overcome with glutton. Then, He Xuan feasts. That’s how it always goes.

But today was a normal day. Nothing special about it. The Kiln wasn’t set to open again until a very later date in the year. And yet, He Xuan salivates at the idea of a meal that was not food, but bright, red energy.

He Xuan walks through Ghost City, passing food cart after food cart. Once those scents were alluring, but right now He Xuan had an appetite for only one thing at the moment. Or rather only one person.

With effort, he pushes himself through Paradise Manor’s grand entrance. Upon sensing another Calamity’s arrival into his home, Hua Cheng appears in front of him with the jingle of silver.

“Black Water.” Hua Cheng says coldly. “To what do I owe the displeasure of this unannounced visit?”

He Xuan swallows deeply. Had Crimson Rain always looked so delicious? So appetizing?

“I’m hungry.” He Xuan says.