I took a deep breath, trying hard to suppress the anger and panic surging in my heart. Stealing a sect treasure? That was far too grave a crime—I could never admit to it! "Uncle-Master Zhao, this disciple is wronged! I have never done such a thing. Someone must be framing me!"
Uncle-Master Zhao sneered. "Framing you? The evidence is ironclad, and yet you still want to deny it? Guards, bring out the evidence!"
Two disciples of the Disciplinary Hall walked forward carrying a wooden box, setting it down carefully on the ground. Uncle-Master Zhao opened the box to reveal a jade slip resting inside. He picked up the jade slip and read aloud in a ringing voice, "According to the treasure repository log, at the hour of the rat last night, Lu Chen entered the treasure repository and stayed for approximately one shichen. Early this morning, the treasure repository's founding treasure—the Thundering Sword—vanished without a trace! Lu Chen, what else do you have to say for yourself?"
Chapter 62