第128章 "A Masked Deception Unveiled"

**128. The Web of Lies**

Lin Chao's eyes seemed to bore a hole into Old Ghost's mask, as if willing the truth to seep out. The silence was palpable, and even the guild members seemed to be holding their breaths.

"So, Old Ghost," Lin Chao's voice was low and even, "you're telling me that you're not the traitor, but rather a pawn in someone else's game?"

Old Ghost's mask remained steady, but Lin Chao could sense a flicker of unease behind it. "That's right, Lin Chao. I'm just as confused and hurt as everyone else. I didn't betray our guild, I swear it."

Lin Chao's gaze narrowed. "Then who did? And why?"

Old Ghost's eyes darted around the room, as if searching for an escape route. "I... I don't know. But I do know one thing - the real traitor is still out there, hiding behind a mask of deceit."

Lin Chao's eyes locked onto Old Ghost's. "I don't believe you. You're hiding something, Old Ghost. And I'm going to find out what it is."

The air was electric with tension as Old Ghost's mask seemed to darken, like a shadow falling across his face. "Fine, Lin Chao. If you want to know the truth, I'll tell you. But be prepared for the consequences."

Lin Chao's grip on his sword tightened. "I'm ready. Tell me."

Old Ghost's mask seemed to shimmer, as if the weight of his words was crushing him. "It was... Lu Chen. He was the one who betrayed us. He's been working with the enemy all along."

Lin Chao's eyes widened in shock. "Lu Chen? But why would he do that?"

Old Ghost's mask seemed to droop, as if the weight of his secrets was too much to bear. "Because... he was promised something. Something big. And he was willing to sell his soul for it."

The room fell silent, as if the weight of Old Ghost's words had sucker-punched everyone. Lin Chao's mind was reeling, trying to process this new information.

But just as Lin Chao was about to ask more questions, the door burst open and a figure strode in. It was Lu Chen, his eyes flashing with anger and his face twisted into a snarl.

"You're all fools," he spat. "You think you can turn against me? I'm the one who's been pulling the strings all along. And soon, I'll be the one who holds the power."

The room erupted into chaos as Ol