, it has been years. Let’s see how things are.”

“Lord Gui, it’s an honor to have you visit,” Ye Tianxiang said, a sly smile on his lips.

The entourage proceeded grandly to the Falling Leaves Sect, situated on the outskirts of Yulong Village—a third-rate power. Domination over the eastern lands belonged to the Tian family, headquartered in Wu Yuan City.

The Falling Leaves Sect, akin to a vassal of Wu Yuan City, supported three major cities, six sects, and three academies. The Tian family was strongest, followed by the Zhao and Xiao families.

Among the six sects, the most powerful was the Asura Sect, followed by the Ru Hui Sect, Executioner Sect, Falling Leaves Sect, Phantom Sect, and Feather Sect.

The three academies, each serving a major city, trained elites for Wu Yuan City, namely the Tian Family Academy, Zhao Lin Academy, and Xiao Qing Academy.

“Is everything ready?” Ye Tianxiang asked his subordinate.

“Yes, my lord.”

“Good, then invite the sect leaders.”

Long Ba lowered his head thoughtfully, unnoticed by Ye Tianxiang, who continued, “Lord Gui, today is our triennial junior martial contest, to determine the top junior among the sects. It’s an honor to have you preside over the event. I’m sure your grandson is quite extraordinary.”

Hearing my name, I could only hang my head in bitter sadness. This event was clearly meant to humiliate us, given my lack of progress.

“Ready for the event?” a messenger reported.

“Perfect timing. Begin the preparations.”

People arrived in five groups from different directions, some flying—a display of hard-earned martial arts mastery. Those able to fly were Wu Shi (Warriors) of the 8th level or above, all formidable figures.

Ye Tianxiang, all smiles, greeted, “Sect Master Xiu Wushang, it’s been a while. Three years passed in a blink.”

“Indeed!” Xiu Wushang replied in an aged voice.

Ye Tianxiang continued, greeting the leaders of the Ru Hui Sect – Hui Duanchang, Executioner Sect – Si Xingtian, Phantom Sect – Huan Tianyu, and Feather Sect – Feather Dust, the only female sect master, “It’s good to see you all well.”

“Ha, ha!” Feather Dust smiled, “Though time flows swiftly, you remain unchanged.”

Ye Tianxiang flattered, “And you, still as beautiful as ever at over seventy.”

“Oh, please. It’s all thanks to you!” Feather Dust sarcastically noted, recalling how Ye Tianxiang had unsuccessfully tried to woo her and ended up giving her a valuable elixir.

Recalling this, Ye Tianxiang’s face darkened.

Xiu Wushang sneered, “Still dreaming, I see. Ha, ha!”

Xiu Wushang’s intent was to poke at Ye Tianxiang, who wasn’t exactly virtuous himself.

Hui Duanchang, Si Xingtian, and Huan Tianyu maintained their distance, aware of the insincerity and ruthlessness disguised by charming words among these three.

To be con

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