The side hall of the Sect Master's main palace.
Xuan Tianba's anger had yet to subside as he listened to Ironface report on the preliminary investigation.
"Reporting to the Sect Master, we have yet to find any conclusive clues. However, several disciples' behavior is suspicious, and they are currently being interrogated rigorously," Ironface said, bowing.
Xuan Tianba's brows drew tightly together. "A bunch of useless fools. You can't even find the slightest trace?"
Just then, an announcement came from outside the hall.
"Reporting to the Sect Master, Her Highness the Saintess requests an audience."
Xuan Tianba's expression eased slightly. "Let her in."
Yang Lingtian, disguised as Liu Ruyan, entered slowly in a white dress, wearing just the right touch of weariness and concern.
"Ruyan pays her respects to the Sect Master." He gave a graceful bow.
"I heard that such a vile incident occurred within the sect. Ruyan has been terribly anxious, so I came especially to pay my respects to the Sect Master and see whether I could help the sect shoulder its burden."
Xuan Tianba looked at his exceptionally gifted Saintess, and a trace of comfort passed through his heart.
"You have a good heart." He waved his hand.
"This matter is intricate and far from trivial. Just focus on recovering from your injuries."
Yang Lingtian shook his head, his tone firm. "Sect Master, the sect's honor and disgrace are also Ruyan's honor and disgrace."
She paused briefly, as if organizing her thoughts.
"Ruyan ventures to speculate that this matter may not be as simple as an inside job involving theft."
Xuan Tianba let out an "Oh." "What makes you say that?"
Yang Lingtian continued, "To locate the sect's vital points with such precision, and employ methods so strange..."
"Could it... could it have been done by demonic