Shi Lang composed five clones and sent them inside the cave to provoke the Snake King and lure it outside. He did not send the clones inside all at once but slowly. In his mind, a voice sounded, "Why not just let me out and cut this beast in two?"
He replied, "I will grow dependent on you. My skills need to grow too."
The sword spirit fell silent, and the clones left to venture deep inside the cave while Shi Lang moved outside. He does not wish to stay here when the Beast is provoked.
...
The Snake King was seventy feet long, covered with black scales. The texture of the scales was a bit different than other snakes. It seemed like the steel was weaved into scales. The Beast had an aura around itself that could frighten many people. However, the clone was not worried.