As the uproar in the central hall died down, the tension remained palpable in the air. My father, Yue Tianlong, gestured for everyone to settle down, his expression serious yet tinged with the pride of a father seeing his son after two long years.
He scanned the room, his authoritative presence silencing even the loudest whispers.
"We need to address the situation regarding the return of the so-called Demon Sect. But before we begin, I would like to speak with my son privately."
A murmur rippled through the gathered elders and disciples as I stepped forward. This was my chance—my father had not asked to see me for a personal talk in ages. A sense of anticipation filled me; perhaps this would be a moment to catch up, or maybe even earn a treasure for my recent breakthrough to the Heavenly Edge Stage.
I followed my father to a smaller chamber adjacent to the main hall, adorned with intricate carvings and filled with the fragrant aroma of incense.
The door clicked shut behind us, leaving the outside world at bay.
"Phaelo," my father began, looking me over as if he were evaluating my growth—not just in cultivation, but as a person. "I see you've made significant progress in your cultivation. Your breakthrough is commendable, especially after your time away."
"Thanks, father," I replied, a grin creeping onto my face. "Two years of seclusion, and I finally made it to the Heavenly Edge Stage. Not bad for a kid, right?" After all I was but teen, I just came of age.
"Not bad at all," he said, his expression softening slightly. "You've brought pride to the family and the sect. I should have expected nothing less from my son." He reached into his robe, pulling out a small box carved from dark wood, inlaid with shimmering runes. "As a reward for your hard work, I present you with this."
Curiosity piqued, I opened the box to reveal a radiant crystal—an Essence Crystal, renowned for its ability to enhance spiritual energy and aid in further breakthroughs. My heart raced. This was a treasure worth and would cause a fight between even Heaven Realm cultivators and early stage Divine Realm cultivator let alone those below.
"This Essence Crystal is of the highest quality," my father continued. "Use it wisely. With your talent, you can go even further. Perhaps even reach the Immortal Ascension Stage one day."
I nodded, grinning from ear to ear. "Thanks, Dad! I won't waste it. Just wait until I'm even stronger—everyone will have to take me seriously!"
He chuckled, but then his expression turned serious again. "However, I must stress the importance of the upcoming meeting. The elders are anxious about the threat we face, and your voice will carry weight among the core disciples."
"Great," I replied, a hint of sarcasm lacing my tone. "Just what I've always wanted: a new set of responsibilities to weigh me down." I didn't mind playing part and being able to gain something and fun from this, but being the center of it? Nah!
My father raised an eyebrow. "This is important. And I expect you to contribute."
"Sure, sure," I said, waving a hand dismissively. "I'll do my part. As long as I don't have to give a long, boring speech or wear some ridiculous outfit." I will do as he says this time, I had time on me as time for my plans hadn't come yet.
"You never know," he replied, smirking. "Elder Wei might insist on a grand speech about destiny and the rise of great cultivators."
"Elder Wei?" I groaned dramatically. "Please, spare me. I'd rather listen to a rock sing."
As if on cue, the door swung open, revealing Elder Han, his entrance as grand as ever. His robes billowed around him, and he struck a pose as if he were the protagonist of a grand tale. "Ah, young Phaelo! I have heard of your illustrious breakthrough! The heavens themselves must be in awe!"
I barely suppressed a groan. "Oh great, here we go…" Elder Han was no different from Elder Wei.
With a flourish, Elder Han began his exaggerated speech. "Today marks a momentous occasion! A breakthrough that not only elevates your standing but also symbolizes the rise of the sect! A new era of prosperity is upon us, and you, my young friend, are destined to lead us into it!"
"Right," I muttered under my breath. "Because nothing says destiny like being pulled into an elder's melodrama."
"Ah, but destiny is a fickle mistress!" Elder Han continued, ignoring my sarcastic undertone eager to make his point "We must embrace our fates! We are the light against the encroaching darkness of the Demon Sect! The call to greatness is upon us!"
"Can't I just skip to the part where I save the world and go back to enjoying my life?" I asked, but my voice was lost amidst Elder Han's theatricality.
"Fear not, for together we shall conquer all!" Elder declared, his arms wide as if he were addressing an audience of thousands. "As the stars align, so shall our strength unite against the chaos!"
My father chuckled, watching the spectacle with amusement. "You've always had a way with words, Han."
"Indeed! And in the face of danger, I shall rally the spirits of the sect!" Elder Han turned his gaze back to me, locking eyes. "What say you, young Phaelo? Will you stand with us?"
"Uh, sure," I replied, caught off guard. "As long as it doesn't involve any costumes or overly dramatic speeches. I'd rather not end up like some sort of celestial jester."
"Jester? Nay! You are a hero in the making!" Elder Han proclaimed, throwing his hands up in the air. "Let us set forth and gather the core disciples for our meeting!"
With that, he turned and marched out of the chamber, leaving my father and me in a moment of silence.
"Do I have to be part of that circus?" I asked, half-jokingly.
My father chuckled again. "You may find it amusing, at least. And who knows? Your input might be valuable."
With a resigned sigh, I followed my father out of the chamber, already mentally preparing for the gathering. Little did I know that this meeting would be just the beginning of a chaotic series of events that would test our strength, wits, and perhaps even my sanity, the meeting that started it all.
As we reached the central hall, the tension in the air thickened. The other elders were gathering, their faces a mix of worry and determination. I braced myself for what was to come!
*****
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