"Elder Sikong Qian of your sect colluded with bandits and seized a large quantity of spirit crystals from my Demon Suppression Army. Sect Master Qiu, please do me a favor: return the spirit crystals and hand over the culprit as well." Shi Lan spoke.
The commotion had drawn quite a few disciples over. Hearing Shi Lan's words, they began whispering among themselves.
"Elder Sikong actually went and robbed people?"
"That can't be right. Elder Sikong doesn't seem like the sort to consort with bandits."
"Who knows if it's true? You can know someone's face, but not their heart."
Qiu Hongxin heard the disciples' whispers. His expression remained impassive as he turned and glanced at Sikong Qian behind him, his eyes full of coldness.
" Sect Master, these people are slandering me! How could I do something so shameful to our sect?" Sikong Qian hurriedly shook his head and protested, sounding much more confident now.
He had already decided to deny everything to the death. Besides, as a fellow sect member, there was no way Qiu Hongxin would side with outsiders.
Qiu Hongxin ignored Sikong Qian and looked at Shi Lan. "You claim to be from the Demon Suppression Army. Do you have proof?"
Shi Lan produced the Demon Suppression Token. "Is this proof enough?"
The last trace of hope in Qiu Hongxin's heart vanished. He glanced at the disciples around them and ordered, "Notify the elders to come to the main hall for a discussion."
Then he turned to Shi Lan and the others. "This matter concerns an elder of my sect. It cannot be handled carelessly. Please come with me to the main hall."
"Of course." Shi Lan nodded slightly. She left Wang Ning and the others from the Demon Suppression Army there and followed Qiu Hongxin with only