"It really was. But this time, against all expectations, we weren't wiped out. I came out with a few old companions, and every one of us made a fortune. It truly was a great victory. But after that exploration, we washed our hands of the matter. After all, everyone was still terrified there might be consequences. To enter the inner city, steal that treasure, and then come back out—how bizarre was that? In the end, our group of old fellows even got into an argument over who should own the treasure. Once we left the Immortal City, it continued infecting the surrounding elemental energy without end. It was definitely a Baleful Intent-grade spiritual treasure." Mu Zhongping gave a sinister smile.
"I've only heard of people forcibly taking treasures. I've never heard of people arguing over who should give one up. Why did it end up with the Grand Sect Master?" I asked with a smile of my own.
"I lost the draw. But they compensated me with quite a few treasures, so it was still fair and just." A trace of mockery appeared in Mu Zhongping's eyes.
I didn't know what to say. After all, the Ghost Stone was in my hands now. At that moment, I began to notice that birds, beasts, fish, and insects had vanished from the surrounding area. The forests and various crags seemed to have turned black, while the clear blue sky and bright sun had become hazy in the far distance.
"Heh heh, welcome to the Immortal Kingdom." A meaningful gleam appeared at the corner of Mu Zhongping's mouth. I drew in a sharp breath. Mu Zhongping was ghostly and sinister, as though there was always something wrong with him.
I glanced at Third. He smiled at me, and I turned back and asked,