Since the grand examination began at the ancestral hall, he has sensed something unusual, as if someone is closely watching him. Focusing his divine sense sharply, he searched for any disturbances, trying to detect any anomalies.
If one could open the grey cloth veil, they would be able to see the figure enveloped in a faint mist, sitting quietly, their head lowered in meditation.
The spirit that manifested from the river meditation seemed to pierce through the bond with the celestial recognition, extending its perception, but unable to shake off the penetrating gaze. The tranquility of the place was like a hidden depth, requiring only a slight movement to disturb.
A pair of hands gently adjusted the white robes of a figure emerging from the depths, stepping into the clearing. This person was not just a mere outsider, but someone capable of discerning the void and manipulating the earth itself—a figure well-known, one of the three great historians.
Such comprehension is hard to believe that even within the distant celestial mansion, there could be two elders capable of concealing such profound void energy.
The fierce Tang Feng strode forward, his expression calm, his eyes filled with determination.
The evening was quiet, no sign of hostility, as if a bow was drawn within the heart, silently waiting for the right moment to release.
According to reason, this was a place often frequented by important figures or renowned scholars, but he himself had no personal connection.
Firstly, he was unaware that his private matters had been exposed without any order; secondly, as a long-time warrior in the realm of the Fire Nation, his ties to the government were intricate and sensitive, especially considering the recent expansion of the examination grounds in Qin Year’s eighth month, where outsiders were rarely admitted.
What was the true nature of the threat lurking among the rocks? It seemed a dangerous move was imminent, and plans were being made to counter it.
Given the urgency, Tang Feng hastened his pace, reaching just as the family orders were about to collapse. After this, he planned to meet Bai Qi in the city to discuss the examination locations thoroughly.
Red-robed soldiers moved swiftly, their movements sharp and purposeful. Amid them, a figure named Jin Qingling stood out with her calm demeanor, respected by the true masters and elders as a key strategist.
The moonlight gradually receded as the fire clan passed through the narrow paths.
Yu E led the procession into the marketplace, his manner courteous yet calm. Regarding the current Bai Qi Immortal, no matter the formalities or casual moments, he maintained a dignified aura.
The staircase pillars glistened, illuminated by the lanterns. The guests mingled peacefully along the wooden balcony, among them a tall figure wearing white robes—the Bai Qi Immortal—whose presence was like autumn waters, serene and clear, yet carrying a quiet power.
Her elegant and graceful manner radiated a rare charm, like a beautiful flower blossoming in a secluded garden. Yet beneath that beauty lay a subtle but profound depth that captivated those around her.
Seeing this, Tang Feng did not dare to lose focus, immediately regaining composure and speaking clearly, “What is the current status of Bai Dingzhu’s abilities? Is it true he borrowed the identity of Tang Huifei?”
Smiling gently, Bai Qi’s eyes glimmered, her tone like a melody, “The shadow technique you speak of belongs to the Moonshade Sect, closely tied to Tang Jie.”
With exquisite movements, she approached, her silhouette light and swift. Bai Qi’s gaze scanned the young man behind Tang Feng, her expression unreadable.
The faint light on her face revealed an inner calm, the kind that comes from years of cultivation, yet with a youthful vitality.
Chen Xizhi whispered softly, “This undoubtedly is a rare phenomenon. The cultivation of the Moonshade Sect is unusually profound; for her to willingly reveal herself here is extraordinary. Words fail to describe the impression.”
It was only that her light was dim and deep, showing that she had long since been steadfast and sincere in her resolve.
“I can be aloof or earnest as I please,” Bai Qi said. “Among comrades, I’m merely a tool that can be discarded at will. Of course, as the sect leader, I shoulder many responsibilities, but secretly, I am still a diligent student of the arts.”
Yu E’s expression shifted subtly, as he followed the flow of the gathering spirit energy, carefully observing the movements, sensing Bai Qi Immortal’s influence spreading.
Hence, he took a cautious step forward, preparing for whatever development might come next.
He knew that Bai Qi would not act rashly on her own.
“Indeed,” Bai Qi continued calmly, “regardless of whether changes occur, I will always stand by my comrades.”
Her words carried a weight that silenced all doubts in the room.
“Moon,” she said softly, “do you have others watching us?”
Tang Feng nodded knowingly, “Yes, someone is lurking nearby. Only then does this young man’s presence make sense, as if someone is guarding him closely.”
“Yu Luo’s temperament is unpredictable,” Chen Xizhi remarked. “He once attacked Bai Dingzhu after the examinations.”
Cloud-shrouded waves of suspicion circled them, as Yu Luo’s men were numerous and skilled.
“Considering Bai Dingzhu and the five continents’ scholar Liu Xian, those are powerful individuals,” Chen Xizhi said, “but most of the disturbance originates from Bai Ri’s faction, though within it are capable old masters, or perhaps even the hidden elders.”
“Xu Yayi is one of the most cautious among us,” Yu E responded quietly.
“Yes,” Chen Xizhi acknowledged, “Shi Chun Gu, too, wields great power, but sooner or later, the decisive day will come.”
When Bai Qi Immortal spoke, it needed no embellishment, as all recognized that only she truly understood the essence of cultivation and the burdens it entailed.
“Many matters in the celestial palace await their time,” she said, “and when the day arrives, with the help of our allies, I hope to end the cycle.”
Yu E’s smile was faint yet sincere, “Whether in battle or peace, among the many sects and clans, I trust you to lead us.”
Tang Feng thought about Bai Qi’s father, an ancient and noble figure, though fate had brought him here peacefully.
“I understand well,” Bai Qi said softly, “that time when you governed was not easy. Perhaps you never saw the true face of the enemy, or were caught in illusions at the time. It is understandable.”
“Qiu Ju was a person of deep kindness,” she added. “His words, though few, conveyed great love for the land and its people.”
The riverbank was quiet as Bai Qi paused, continuing solemnly, “Xi Wei Bao Lang is a man of unparalleled talent, gentle in nature, never taking advantage, treating everyone with respect. Without his guidance, the alliance would not have survived.”
All present silently reflected on those who had passed, their memories lingering like a distant melody in the wind.
[End of chapter]
PS: The upcoming Spring Festival chapter will feature even more intricate developments.