Treasure-hunting: Into the Unknown

"If we don't kill him now, when the truth comes out, it will be too late," Nick retorted. He didn’t want to become a famous outlaw in the entire Enigmatic Kingdom.

"Investigating the issues concerning the Zi Clan back at that year is grueling. It may take them a while to reopen the case, so there's no need for us to worry yet. What we must do now is finding an opportunity to get rid of Zachary in secret without being suspected," Elijah advised.

"Elder Elijah, what do you have in mind?" Armand inquired as he focused his attention on him.

"Celestial College has already enlisted masters from various clans and sects for the Five-God Tombs' exploration, and a Sage Level elder and some Imperial Level warriors in our clan have been chosen. If our men can land an opportunity to eliminate Zachary during the expedition, it would incline no one to think we have something to do with it," Elijah proposed. The corner of his lips curled up into a sinister smile.

"That's a great idea. But if our men fail during their first attempt, Zachary will grow suspicious and might even catch us in the act." Armand voiced out his concern.

"So, I’ve decided that I’ll do it myself." Elijah had already made up his mind.

"Elder Elijah, are you certain that you’re going to take care of that fool personally?" Armand asked, looking surprised.

"Yes. This matter has a direct effect on our clan’s fate and welfare. I can’t just stand down and let it all hang out," Elijah countered with a grave expression.

"Since you’ve volunteered to take measures into your own hands, I trust that you will handle it well," Armand said with relief. Armand had put so much faith in Elijah. A while back, Elijah had helped him develop a plan to seize control of the clan’s highest position.

"If you’re not having second thoughts with my proposition, I will forward my request to Celestial College right away and make an urgent plea to take part in this exploration. With my reputation in the Enigmatic Kingdom, I don’t think they will refuse my petition," Elijah said with confidence.

"Elder Elijah, I’m always grateful for the sacrifices you’ve done for our clan," Armand said with a reassuring nod at the elder.

"It’s my honor, sir, to be of service to our clan. I’m only fulfilling my duty as its loyal follower," Elijah responded with satisfaction. He then added, "But I think you must report this matter to thos

Celestial College had made the confirmation on the final list of members tasked to explore the Martial Fire Tomb. These representatives were from Celestial College and elite warriors of Imperial Level and Sage Level from various powerful clans. Also, there were three Holy Level warriors from Celestial College, including Katrina, who was to lead the expedition. The total number of members was over a hundred, which was a formidable line-up.

However, since the Martial Fire Tomb was a dangerous place, Celestial College had requested Katrina to give all team members a short special training, in case they encountered an unexpected circumstance along the way.

At this point, over eighty Imperial Level warriors and twenty Sage Level warriors gathered at Celestial College's square.

Since Zachary was the reigning champion of the Imperial Level Warrior Contest, he was also present. To his astonishment, he saw many people he was acquainted with as part of the exploration team. "Are you going, too?" he asked Queenie and Rebecca.

They were both new Imperial Level warriors from two influential clans and as per recommendation, Queenie and Rebecca also signed up for the exploration team, together with Rita, Elva, Nelson, Scott, and Sara. Everyone who Zachary met in Celestial College was part of the team.

"You got a problem with that? Are you looking down on us now that you’re a Sage Level warrior?" Queenie castigated arrogantly.

"That's not what I mean! What I'm saying is, your lives might be in danger if you explore the Martial Fire Tomb!" Zachary explained with an innocent look.