ch 6 The Path to Justice

With that said, Zhihui finally looked at the Sect Master.

"Alright, alright," the Sect Master interjected, his calm and authoritative voice instantly diffusing the tension in the hall. With just two words, the room fell into a respectful silence.

"Bai Zhihui," the Sect Master continued, his gaze steady and inquisitive, "you seem deeply troubled by this matter. I want to know exactly what happened and what has provoked such anger in you. Speak plainly, so we may address this issue with the seriousness it deserves."

Zhihui straightened, his gaze unwavering as he addressed the Sect Master. "Sect Master Zhenyu, the issue at hand is a grave one. My disciple, Zhi Yong, was punished for an alleged unfair victory, a judgment rendered without any proper investigation or evidence. This not only undermines his honor but also the principles upon which our sect is built."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing, his voice resonating with controlled fury. "This miscarriage of justice happened in my absence, and it reeks of an attempt to undermine my authority and harm my disciples. Such actions cannot be tolerated. If we allow baseless accusations and internal strife to fester, it will erode the very unity and strength we pride ourselves on."

Zhihui's eyes swept across the assembled Lords before returning to the Sect Master. "I demand a thorough investigation into this matter. We must ensure that our principles of honesty, proper judgment, and united strength are upheld. Anything less would be a disgrace to our sect."

The Sect Master, Zhenyu, listened intently, his expression thoughtful. After a moment of silence, he spoke with a measured tone, his voice carrying both authority and understanding.

"Bai Zhihui, your concerns are duly noted and your passion for justice is commendable. The integrity of our sect is indeed paramount, and any actions that undermine it must be addressed with the utmost seriousness."

He glanced around the hall, ensuring all present understood the gravity of the situation. "I decree that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the accusations against your disciple, Zhi Yong. We will ensure that the truth is brought to light and that justice is served accordingly."

Turning back to Zhihui, the Sect Master's eyes softened slightly. "Rest assured, no harm will come to your reputation or your disciples without due cause. We will uphold the principles of honesty, proper judgment, and unity that define our sect. Let us proceed with this matter transparently and judiciously, for the sake of our collective honor and strength."

With the Sect Master's words still hanging in the air, Zhihui turned his gaze towards the drapes at the back of the hall. Standing just beyond them was Zhi Yong, partially concealed but clearly visible to his discerning eyes.

"Zhi Yong," Zhihui called out, his voice carrying across the hall with a blend of authority and reassurance. "Step forward."

Zhi Yong emerged from behind the drapes, his demeanor respectful yet determined. As he approached, Zhihui continued, "Your actions have sparked this inquiry, and your truth will be heard. Stand tall and speak clearly, for we will ensure that justice is done."

The room watched in silence, the gravity of the moment settling in, as Zhi Yong prepared to present his side of the story under the watchful eyes of his master and the Sect.

Zhi Yong paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. "Before the competition, I was confronted by Xiao Shixiong's disciple, Ao Hao. He struck me without provocation and continued to insult my late mother, showing blatant disrespect. His anger boiled over, and he taunted me about her origins, making me furious."

"In a flash of rage, I drew my sword and pressed it against Ao Hao's neck," Zhi Yong continued, his voice steady but intense. "Reacting instinctively, he drew his own sword, and a clash ensued. During the fight, Ao Hao stabbed my hand with his sword. In the struggle, I managed to push him away, leaving a slash on his chest."

Zhihui's eyes narrowed, his anger simmering beneath his composed exterior. "This is an affront not only to Zhi Yong but to the very principles we uphold. An unprovoked attack followed by slander against his family cannot be tolerated."

The Sect Master nodded thoughtfully. "Very well. An inquiry will commence immediately. We will thoroughly investigate this incident to ensure that justice is served and the truth is revealed."

He looked around the hall, his gaze firm. "Until the investigation is complete, Zhi Yong will remain under the protection and guidance of his master, Bai Zhihui,and his room shall be merged with his Master's to prevent any similar situation in the future. Let this serve as a reminder that our principles of honesty, respect, and unity must always be upheld."

With the Sect Master's decree, the tension in the room began to ease, and the assembly prepared to move forward, guided by the unwavering resolve of Zhihui and his bold, confident disciple, Zhi Yong.

Soon after the assembly In the hall was over