Mason Payne walked up slowly. Zachary Justice stared at him in silence, holding the broken sword, ready to attack at any moment. But Master Boundless blocked him with his horsetail whisk.
"Master,"
Mason Payne bowed gently, his tone soft.
"We are the Immortality Society."
"Absurd. Heh."
Zachary Justice glared angrily at Mason Payne, but Mason said nothing, remaining gentle in his demeanor.
"A few years ago, by chance, we met this master and learned that the sword he holds is the very Boundless Sword you once wielded at the foot of the mountain. Through him, we finally arrived at this treasured land, Mount Immeasurable. Master, would you consider cooperating with us?"
Mason Payne asked softly. Master Boundless shook his head.
"Heretical cults."
Master Boundless stepped forward. Instantly, violent currents of air surged around them. Zachary Justice swallowed hard as a wisp of white mist seeped from Master Boundless's back—a single, shining white bead.
"This is our Daoist sect's greatest treasure, the Starshard Radiance. Keep it safe, Justice. If anything happens to me today, take this and go to Nine Suns Mountain. Seek out Daoist Master Arthur Young."
Zachary Justice nodded and took the gleaming bead, tucking it carefully into his robe.
"Of course, Daoist Master. Whatever you need, we will provide. Even the greatest treasures of our sect—just say the word, and we will do everything in our power to help."
"What is it that keeps you alive, monsters?"
Mason Payne nodded silently.
"Of course. To live forever."
"Heh. Monsters who have lived for over a thousand years. Today, this Daoist has truly seen it all."
With a sharp crack, Master Boundless collapsed onto the steps. The stone split beneath him, and slowly, he began to float upward.
"Step back, Justice."
Zachary Justice retreated to the mountain gate.