Chapter 71: The Sect Leader

A grand spectacle.

The majesty of the province’s leading sect was on full display.

"So lively?"

Theo lifted the carriage curtain, surveying the scene outside.

He had only ventured down the mountain once for a mission and had yet to truly step into the martial world.

Old Ba, who was driving the carriage, chuckled.

"The sect evaluation is a stage for our younger generation to showcase their strength. Naturally, the surrounding minor sects, as well as the other major factions, will send representatives to observe."

"I see."

Theo nodded. He understood why the event drew such a crowd.

Newcomers replaced the old. The younger generation would eventually become the sect’s backbone, representing its future strength.

Strength dictated status. It determined how other sects would position themselves in the years to come.

Moreover, not long ago, the Silent Thunder Sect witnessed a celestial phenomenon. A sky ablaze with radiant light.

Many came with the intent to probe the truth behind it.

As he spoke, Old Ba pointed ahead.

"That is the delegation from the Blazing Jade Forest. Led by one of their chief elders."

Theo followed his gaze.

The Blazing Jade Forest’s group was small. Barely a dozen people. But their presence was anything but modest.

The disciples were dressed in exquisite attire. Their weapons were all renowned artifacts. It set them apart from the minor sect disciples around them.

At the forefront stood a white-robed disciple with his hands clasped behind his back, an air of arrogance in his expression.

"The Blazing Jade Forest lies to the west, bordering the Central Dynasty. Some of their disciples come from distinguished backgrounds," Old Ba explained.

"What about over there?" Theo asked again.

Old Ba glanced over and grinned.

"That is the Crimson Whale Syndicate."

"They are the largest gang in the province. On the surface, they are the weakest of the three major factions. But their waters run deep, full of hidden currents."

The Crimson Whale Syndicate’s side was far livelier.

They had ties, big or small, with the minor sects, leading to clusters of greetings and small talk.

Theo nodded slightly, narrowing his eyes.

Their leader was a Syndicate helmsman. But what caught Theo’s attention wasn’t him. It was the blood-robed youth by his side.

There was something unsettling about the young man.

But before Theo could activate his system overlay, a familiar figure blocked his view.

The Provincial Governor.

The governor, whom Theo had met once before, was now conversing with the helmsman.

The carriage moved again.

Soon, they reached the halfway point up the main peak.

"Good luck, my precious disciple."

Vespera stretched lazily before leaping gracefully onto the high platform.

There, the peak elders were already seated. Additional spots were reserved for the visiting observers from other factions.

Sect Leader Elias sat at the center, his gaze sweeping over the crowd.

When his eyes landed on Liana, they gleamed with deep expectation.

It wasn’t just the Sect Leader watching.

Many pairs of eyes turned their way at that moment.

Liana. The Sect Leader’s sole disciple. The acknowledged successor to the sect. A peerless talent among her generation.

With such dazzling accolades, coupled with her aloof demeanor, it was impossible for her to go unnoticed.

"?"

Theo frowned.

His senses were sharp. He felt the hostility in many gazes, as if he were a thorn in their sides.

After all, he was the only one standing beside Liana.

And he had even been granted the Crimson Edge, a supreme blade meant to pair with her Frost-Bite.

Facing those stares, Theo smirked.

"Liana, I brought some tea. Care for a cup?"

"Very well."

Liana adored tea, regardless of its quality.

Her slender hands took the tea set. She began brewing with practiced ease. Swift yet graceful. Like a painting come to life, mesmerizing more than a few onlookers.

"Tsk."

Theo picked up a small cup.

The glares grew even sharper. If looks could kill, he would have been riddled with holes by now.

He took a satisfied sip and praised.

"Still, yours tastes the best."

Just then, the voice of the Sect Leader rang out.

"Today, for the sect evaluation, I will keep my words brief..."