The first formation to activate on the two talismans was a light burst. A blinding, intense radiance instantly engulfed the entire hall, forcing almost everyone to squeeze their eyes shut—everyone except for a mere handful of experts.
Even so, even if Nie Tian and Yan Ju could keep their eyes open, they could not see the scene in the hall clearly in such a short span of time. Only Chen Xuan was less affected by the light burst; he could still see the outlines of Master Jiao, his two disciples, and the group of plainclothes officers. He watched as the plainclothes officers all reached up to shield their eyes and retreated rapidly. Having been at close range when the light burst was unleashed, they were no different from the blind until the technique dissipated a few seconds later. Those who had failed to shield their eyes in time would certainly suffer lasting damage.
The moment the light burst took effect, bullets were poised to strike Master Jiao and his two disciples. Immediately after, the second formation on the talismans—a protective barrier—was triggered. A thin film of light enveloped the master and his students; a dozen bullets slammed into the barrier, creating a dozen dimples upon its surface. Then, the deflection technique inscribed on the talismans activated. Every single one of the dozen bullets was sent flying back.
Chapter 1755