The next morning.
At the inn where Demon Flame Valley was staying, a group clad in black and red garments patterned with flames strode straight out through the west gate, moving with great fanfare and making no attempt to conceal themselves.
"Young Sect Master, Elder, Demon Flame Valley's people have left through the west gate."
"Good. Inform the people from Black Skull Tomb and have them head to the west gate to intercept them."
"Yes."
"Elders, let's go."
After speaking, Fan Ling stamped his foot and shot toward Black-Seal City's west gate. The others hurriedly followed behind him.
Outside Black-Seal City's west gate, the group from Demon Flame Valley traveled swiftly until they reached a small hill. Feng Hua, who was leading them, suddenly stopped and spoke toward the area behind the hill and within the forest.
"Come out. Since you're here, why keep hiding?"
As his voice fell, blood-red energy emerged atop a large tree in the forest. After a burst of energy ripples, a pale-faced middle-aged man in a blood-colored robe appeared there, his chilly laughter ringing out.
"Hehe, Elder Feng Hua's senses are as sharp as ever."
Black mist also surged atop the hill. Before long, a gaunt-faced figure clad in a black robe appeared. His body was concealed beneath the robe, and he gripped a Skeleton Scepter in his withered hand as he spoke in a hoarse, grating voice.
"Elder Feng surely knows why we're here. Hand it over, and spare yourself some needless suffering."
"Hmph, Fan Lao, Skeleton Old Demon, you dare rob something belonging to Demon Flame Valley? Aren't you afraid our Valley Master will come looking for you?"
Feng Hua of Demon Flame Valley looked grave upon seeing the two men. Both were stronger than he was, and Fan Lao was even