"The Sect Master is correct, you aren't young anymore Saintess, at such an age you have already reached the foundation realm... Do you know how much one needs to work to reach such heights? How much hardship does one need to encounter?
but you are lucky that you were born as the daughter of the sect master, getting the best treatment and pills from childhood, it's time for you to repay the sect, you aren't naive, you should also know how much value does this connection holds, it's all in your heart, you better not disappoint the sect,"
The supreme elder who was giving attention to the words of the sect master and saintess, chose to come forward and sprout some enlightenment on Ling'r, gently stroking his long white beard.
Another Elder added decided to follow up and came forward adding, "You should think for yourself, this place doesn't hold a suitable condition for a person like you, you have great potential and Talent, Holy Envoy can help you reach unpredictable heights, you should probably try to have a meaningful relationship with Holy Envoy...
Some opportunities come once in a lifetime, if you miss it, you can only call yourself a fool,"
"Hm! Elder is correct if you miss such an opportunity, I doubt...you will be wasted just like the rest of us, " The supreme Elder said.
" Listen to me, Ling'r... You Should get on the good side of the Holy Envoy, I can provide you with an opportunity tonight but whether you wanna take it or not, is within you... Make sure to keep in mind that, if you fail, don't even show me your face," The Sect Master uttered heartlessly.
Hearing all of this, Saintess kept quiet while she lowered her head. Her mind was a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts and emotions.
On one hand, she couldn't help but acknowledge the truth in their words.
But, no one would help for free, especially in a world where strength means everything, she also knew what the Elder and Her father's words meant.
They wanted her to use her body to intrigue Bai Lung's attention, in short form, Have intercourse with him and become his little maid, or worse, a means of entertainment.
If she could have some of his attention and mercy then she might flourish well, but if she didn't then only pain and bottomless abyss awaits.
So, if possible she really wanted to be on his good side and act obedient, not to mention, that he already has a fiancee, who is a princess of the Qin Empire.
So, her presence beside him won't be taken lightly.
Things have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Weighing with a clear mind, she indeed finds it better to be with him, or, to be specific be alone compared to be here.
It's clear he won't be giving her much time then again, it's not that needed, if she can cultivate alone in peace.
Clenching her fist, she can only swallow knowing her duty well, all she can 'bet' is on the opportunity provided by her father.
---
The night!
The grand hall of the sect was transformed for the evening's feast, adorned with vibrant silks and golden lanterns that cast a warm glow over the space.
Long tables laden with a bounty of delicacies stretched from one end of the hall to the other, groaning under the weight of roasted meats of powerful beasts rich in life essence, an array of exotic fruits, some old refined wines, etc...
The aroma of rich spices and sweet desserts filled the air, mingling with the sound of chatter and laughter from the gathered disciples and elders as they talked about how glorious the Holy Envoy looked when slaying that monkey, Ling Fei.
At the head of the hall, a raised platform held a table reserved for the most esteemed guests.
Bai Lung sat in the center, his presence commanding immediate attention as he was the main character of this feast.
To his right, the Sect Master watched over the proceedings with a satisfied smile, while Xiao Ling'r sat to his left, her expression remained a careful mask of composure, despite the turmoil in her heart.
Today, something was gonna tear apart and it's definitely not heart. Something gonna bleed, and it's not heart.
Servants moved gracefully among the tables, pouring fragrant tea and strong wine into intricately carved cups.
The music of traditional instruments provided a soothing backdrop to the lively conversations, creating an atmosphere of celebration and reverence.
Bai Lung really liked the sound of the flute, it was mind cleansing.
Clap!
The Sect Master stood and clapped his hands, signaling for silence.
"Tonight, we honor our Holy Envoy, Bai Lung, who has brought justice to our sect," he announced with his voice resonating through the hall.
Instantly all eyes turned toward Bai Lung, filled with admiration and respect...
Bai Lung acknowledged the gesture with a nod, but his expression remained cold, "It is nothing special,"
As the feast continued, Xiao Ling'r found herself in quiet conversation with Bai Lung. She spoke of the sect's history and traditions, hoping to engage him and perhaps soften his demeanor.
But, Bai Lung listened politely without responding much.
It remained uncleared as if he was even listening to her words causing her to have panic yet her face remained calm and composed with a smile tugged on her lips.
"Young Master Bai, your actions today have set a new standard for our sect," she said, her voice sincere.
" I don't think our sect would have even known that a devil was among us... "
Bai Lung regarded her for a moment while his gaze was unreadable.
"The strength of a sect lies not in the actions of one, but in the unity and dedication of all its members, I believe even if I wasn't here, someone would have exposed Ling Fei,"
The Sect Master observed their interaction with a keen eye, pleased with the display of respect and diplomacy, everything was left to his daughter now.
"Holy Envoy, this is 10,000-year-old Wine — Tear of Phoenix, it is created with extremely rare herbs and plants...." She said while she poured two cups.