Morning light pierced the clouds, casting a golden rim over the Tianshan Sect. On the main peak plaza, dew on the bluestone slabs reflected a crystalline light, resembling scattered stars.
Ling Xiao stood upon the steps in a white robe, the Star Bow hanging at his waist, and the Zhu Xian and Luxian swords slung across his back. Ling Zan, Huo Wu, Lin Hao, Qingxuan, and Hongyi stood in two rows on either side, while further back stood the ancient fierce beast, Qiongqi—a subordinate whom Lin Hao had subdued in a past life. All were fully prepared and ready for departure.
Across the plaza, the disciples had spontaneously formed ranks. Ye Hongmian held a recently refined batch of elixirs; Tie Zhu carried his newly reforged heavy black-iron sword; Liu Suifeng held a jade slip inscribed with the "Art of Heavenly Listening and Earthly Vision"; and Lan Ruoyu's waist sword still had therapeutic gauze wrapped around its scabbard. Everyone carried shared memories forged with Ling Xiao.
Chapter 423