Late at night, New Joy Ward's grand arena had long since emptied. The clamor, bustle, and fervor from earlier had vanished without a trace.
Only three to five martial artists assigned by the Ma Family remained to carry out routine patrols, but they merely went through the motions, not bothering to be meticulous.
Under the moonlight, a black shadow suddenly descended onto the grand arena. His movement technique was like drifting willow catkins, light and soundless. Clad in a layer of black outerwear, he seemed to merge with the night itself; without close observation, one might not even notice his presence.
After landing in the arena, the man bent over and began searching the area with eyes as sharp as an eagle's.
Because of the Life and Death Duel between Old Blade Zhao and Gu Li, the grand arena had already become a complete mess. Pits and craters covered the ground, while shattered marks lay everywhere. Finding any particular object amid such ruin was difficult enough, let alone in such an unfriendly environment.
Still, since this man had chosen to act at this hour, he naturally had his reasons. The thing he sought must have been exceedingly precious.
"Eh? How is that possible? I clearly saw the pendant land somewhere in this grand arena. Its aura was obvious too—how could I fail to find it?"
By the moonlight, one could vaguely make out his round, pleasant features. His thick brows carried a touch of heroic spirit. He was precisely the man who had spoken with Gu Li earlier and handed him Bei Tangsu's Black Dagger Pendant.
"Are you looking for this?"
All at once, a voice rang out across the silent grand arena, teasing in tone and carrying a hint of lightness.
Yet that light, cheerful voice frightened the man