Chapter 16: Accident
Stepping outside, Hugo Payne caught sight of Lordi Payne clutching the rulebook as if it were a priceless treasure and let out a derisive scoff.
"Clan brother, is this rulebook just for show or what?" Lordi Payne's heart skipped a beat at the dismissive tone, prompting him to ask hurriedly.
Hugo Payne shot him an odd look. "How could it be? The Holy Sect didn't toil over all these rules and regulations just to let them gather dust."
He clapped Lordi Payne on the shoulder. "But... well, you'll get it once you read it."
Before Lordi Payne could question further, Hugo Payne pointed into the distance. "Now that your soul lamp's lit, you're an outer sect disciple. Next stop is the Affairs Hall to pick up your disciple robes, nameplate, and such. Hurry up—Affairs Peak doesn't let outsiders stopover. After sunset, anyone not worked from the hall who sticks around is deemed a rule-breaker. And I am not joking."
Lordi Payne straightened up at once. "Aye!"
The two quickened their pace toward the Affairs Hall. The tower building loomed grand and imposing, its sprawling grounds dotted with ornamental trees and bustling with people coming and going.
What caught Lordi Payne's eye most, though, were the two phantom ghosts hovering at the entrance. They were hulking, muscular, three-meter-tall, clad in battle armor, radiating raw power. One gripped a war hammer, the other hefted a spear blade. Their pallid faces bore no expression, only cold, pitch-black eyes that scanned the crowd with an icy stare.
The sight reminded Lordi Payne of Joanie and Willow, sending a twitch through his cheek. He averted his gaze and stuck close behind Hugo Payne as they entered.
Inside, the hall was a cavernous space teeming with activity. Disciples darted about, all seeming rushed and preoccupied.
Hugo Payne wasted no time. He strode purposefully to a corner, found an attendant disciple, and explained the situation. Soon, that disciple returned with a set of outer sect robes, a fist-sized storage pouch, and a segment of finger bone.