Chapter 997
“Master Zhao, are you also interested in a slice of the action?” inquired Jiang Xiuzhen, his eyes narrowed with caution.
“Haha… The Heavenly Spirit Pearl is a revered artefact in the martial arts realm. Naturally, I wouldn’t pass up such a treasure,” laughed Zhao Hongxiang without hesitation.
Once they attain the rank of masters, there are few treasures that can draw their attention, but the Heavenly Spirit Pearl is among the best.
With the Tian Ling Bead, they have the chance to break through their limitations once more and become grandmasters!
Only then would they truly be at the pinnacle.
“Amitabha… even humble monks come to partake in the festivities.”
At this moment, a figure radiating golden light emerged from the shadows.
It was a bald elderly man, with a ring-shaped scar etched on his head.
The old man was portly, with a benevolent countenance. He wore a wide cassock, and his entire being was bathed in the light of the Buddha, exuding an air of sanctity.
The soft golden glow washed over the people, giving the feeling of being embraced by a spring breeze.
“Abbot of Dabei Temple – Master Jiexin!”
Everyone scrutinized him and a murmur of surprise swept through the crowd once more.
Unexpectedly, another martial arts master had arrived.
What was going on today? All the grandmasters were gathering in one place.
These prominent figures, who were usually hidden, were all making appearances one after the other.
Was it all for Meskill’s treasure?
“Master Jiexin, what brings you here?” Jiang Xiuzhen’s brows furrowed, the tension steadily rising.
He had initially contemplated seizing the Heavenly Spirit Pearl for himself, but now it seemed like a far-fetched idea.
“Amitabha, there have been rumours of an evil presence here. The humble monk came to investigate. It would be best to return this malevolent force to the temple and confine it beneath the Wufeng Pagoda. This way, we can prevent a bloodbath.” Master Jiexin spoke serenely.
“Hmph! It sounds noble, but you don’t wish to claim it for yourself?” sneered Zhao Hongxiang.
He detested sanctimonious individuals the most. Clearly, he had come for the treasure, yet he had to put on a facade of rescuing all living beings. “No, the humble monk is here to save all benefactors,” replied Master Jiexin, his expression unchanged.
“Alright, alright, I can’t be bothered to waste words with you.”
Zhao Hongxiang grew a tad impatient. “Senior Jiang, you are the eldest. Tell us, how should we divide the Heavenly Spirit Beads?”
“Divide? The items haven’t even arrived yet. Why are you in such a rush?” raised Jiang Xiuzhen’s eyebrows.
“Oh yes, I nearly forgot.”
Zhao Hongxiang smacked his forehead and turned to Dustin. “Young man, hand over the Tianling Pearl, and let’s discuss this together.”
“Senior Zhao, I don’t possess the Tianling Pearl. You must be mistaken,” Dustin denied once again.
The Tianling Pearl was in Abigail’s hands, so he wasn’t lying.
“Young man, your words are in vain. Everyone understands the situation. If you intend to hoard it for yourself, you’ll incur the displeasure of the public,” warned Zhao Hongxiang.
“I’ll say it again, no means no. I’m afraid you’ll all be disappointed today,” Dustin shook his head.
“Young rascal! I extended courtesy to you as a person. Don’t you know how to show gratitude!” Zhao Hongxiang’s countenance darkened.
“Benefactor, malevolent forces harm people. You should leave them to the humble monk to deal with. This can also be seen as a benefit to the common people,” Master Jiexin clasped his hands.
“You impertinent brat, you’ve been given another chance. Will you hand it over? Or not?” Jiang Xiuzhen barked sharply.
In that instant, the three grandmasters exerted collective pressure.
An invisible aura enveloped Dustin, intensifying the pressure, attempting to compel him to surrender.
“No, how can I comply?”
Dustin took a deep breath, his gaze unwavering.
“Hmph! You’re obstinate!”
The three grandmasters exchanged glances, ceased their prattle, and simultaneously launched an assault on Dustin.
“Aren’t the three of you afraid of worldwide ridicule for bullying the small?”
Suddenly, a thunderous boom erupted from thin air.
Simultaneously, a figure in white plummeted from the sky, landing before Dustin, and then delivered a resounding slap to the three masters.
Boom!
A palm, akin to a mountain, shot forth, sending shockwaves through the world, driving the three grandmasters several steps back, their expressions gravely serious.
“Huang Donghai?!” They scrutinized him and their expressions instantly shifted.