Gordon, standing on the verge of collapse, seemed to ignore Aspen's frantic words. His face twisted in agony as the grotesque hump on his back began to writhe under his clothing. It was as if something alive were crawling beneath the fabric.

A faint but ominous pop echoed as the hump on Gordon's back cracked open slightly, oozing a viscous, toxic pus.

The corrosive liquid immediately burned through his clothing and skin, producing smoke and leaving grotesque, pitted scars.

It was a horrifying sight, reminiscent of acid eating through flesh.

Aspen's eyes widened in shock. "Mr. Woods, what's happening to you?"

Gordon raised a trembling hand, shouting through gritted teeth, "Stay back! Don't come near me—if you do, you'll die!"

Frantically, he pulled out two pills from a hidden pouch, swallowing them quickly while simultaneously sealing several key acupoints on his body.

Taking a deep breath, Gordon glared at Andrew and growled, "Kid, you're lucky today. But ma