Redmond had already left. I remained seated on the sofa, quietly reflecting on the astonishing truth I had just heard. Though I was merely a bystander, the only thought that came to mind was: why was John Chou the first to initiate the Feast of Ten Thousand Ghosts?
It must have been the countless torments he suffered in the Underworld that fueled his spirit of resistance, growing stronger and stronger, until he could stand on equal footing with The Ten Judges. Perhaps it was simply his way of venting against the Underworld.
Thinking back to what Redmond just said, he truly doesn't seem like someone who craves control over life and death. Of that, I am certain. There was sorrow in his eyes—an instant, genuine sadness that surfaced.
Mealtime had arrived again, and the City Within the City was bustling once more. I walked into the Hall of Malice and saw that the seats were packed with ghosts. Redmond and the other four Ghost Sovereigns were already seated up front.
"My lord, I have a request." Just then, a shrill voice rang out. I looked over—it was a ghost messenger dressed in ancient official robes, with the word 'One' inscribed on his uniform, stepping forward.
"Speak. What trivial matter is it now?"
"I am a servant of King Qin Guang, one of The Ten Judges. I have come for two reasons: first, to congratulate you on the successful hosting of the Feast of Ten Thousand Ghosts; second, on behalf of King Qin Guang, I wish to discuss a private matter with you. I hope you can spare some time to let me deliver a message for him."
"Understood. Why are you people from the Underworld still so fussy after all these years?"
Redmond replied impatiently.
"Thank you, my lord. Also, on behalf of The Ten Judges, I present you with a birthday gift. I hope you will accept it."