Shen Yuan laughed, his deep voice carrying warmth. “Alright, alright. I’ll behave. After all, today’s supposed to be a big day, and I need you both to see what I’m about to do. It will be fun.”
Chen Yue’s pout softened into a grin, and Zhao Lian shook her head with a faint smile. They continued walking, the grand hall where the ceremony would take place now coming into view.
The Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect’s ceremonial grounds were nothing short of magnificent.
The large plaza was surrounded by towering lotus-shaped spires, their crystalline surfaces shimmering under the sunlight.
At the center stood a grand stage adorned with radiant lotus carvings and glowing runes, signifying the sect’s unity and light.
Disciples and elders were already gathering, their robes flowing elegantly as they took their places. The aura of anticipation was palpable.
As the trio approached the steps leading to the stage, a few Core Disciples turned to glance at Shen Yuan, their expressions a mix of curiosity, admiration, and, in some cases, jealousy.
Chen Yue leaned closer to Shen Yuan, her voice low. “Looks like you’ve got an audience already. Try not to cause too much trouble, alright?”
Shen Yuan smirked, adjusting his ceremonial robes. “Me? Trouble? Never.”
Zhao Lian stepped ahead slightly as she softly said, “Let’s get to our places. The Sect Leader and the Grand Elder will be here any moment.”
The three ascended the stage, with Shen Yuan standing at the center, flanked by the two of them.
He leisurely glanced around, noticing the faces of familiar disciples and elders he had seen. Despite the formal setting, his relaxed smile and confident posture remained the same.
As the crowd settled, the sound of a gong echoed through the plaza, signaling the start of the ceremony.
The Sect Leader, Mei Hua, appeared at the far end of the stage, her presence commanding everyone’s attention as she walked gracefully toward the center. Several Core Elders followed closely behind.
Shen Yuan straightened his posture, his gaze meeting Mei Hua’s as she approached, her pink hair fluttering in the wind.
Her serene yet imposing aura filled the space, and when she spoke, her voice carried both warmth and authority.
“Today, we gather to acknowledge the accomplishments of one who has transcended the Tribulation at the youngest age in our sect history,” Mei Hua began, her voice echoing through the plaza.
“Shen Yuan, through your determination and strength, you have earned your place as a key figure in our sect.”
The disciples and elders murmured softly, their expressions reflecting a mix of respect, intrigue, and a faint bit of jealousy.
Mei Hua’s gaze softened slightly as she continued. “This ceremony is not merely a formality. It is a recognition of your contributions and a declaration of trust in your ability to uphold the values of the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect.”
As her words resonated across the plaza, Shen Yuan’s lips curled into a faint smile. The ceremony seemed quite to his liking—not only was it a recognition from the sect but also more responsibilities.
But it was a burden he was willing to carry with pride.
The Sect Leader gestured toward the ceremonial flame at the center of the stage—a radiant lotus-shaped brazier glowing softly. “Shen Yuan, as a symbol of your commitment to the sect, you will light the Radiant Lotus Flame using your Radiant Qi.”
Shen Yuan stepped forward, his movements calm and confident. He raised his hand, his palm glowing with a golden light as he channeled his Radiant Qi. The energy flowed seamlessly, its brilliance illuminating the stage.
With a gentle motion, Shen Yuan directed his Radiant Qi toward the brazier. The flame within flickered before bursting into a vibrant golden light, its radiance spreading across the plaza.
The crowd watched in awe as the flame’s glow seemed to resonate with the energy of the sect itself. Very rarely in the sect had anyone been able to reach this level of resonance with the fire.
The ceremony continued, each ritual being a part of the vast history of the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect.
Shen Yuan performed each task with grace, his presence alone commanding everyone’s respect.
As the formalities came to an end, Mei Hua addressed the crowd once more. “Let this day mark a new chapter for our sect. Together, we shall rise to meet any challenge that comes our way.”
The plaza erupted in applause, the disciples and elders showing their acknowledgment and support.
As the crowd began to disperse for the informal gathering, Chen Yue nudged Shen Yuan playfully. “See? That wasn’t so bad, was it?”
Shen Yuan chuckled, his eyes glinting mischievously. “Not bad at all. But I think the fun part is just beginning.”
Zhao Lian raised an eyebrow, her expression a bit worried. “Try not to get into too much trouble during the gathering, Senior Brother.”
Shen Yuan smirked, his confidence unwavering. “Trouble? There won’t be any.”
His smirk widened as he turned to see a familiar group approaching.
Shen Yuxin, with her elegant and calm presence, led the way, her flowing robes shimmering faintly in the sunlight.
Behind her, Huo Rong and Bing Rong followed, their beauty undiminished even in the presence of Shen Yuxin.
Bringing up the rear was Yun Xian, her charming figure seemed even more beautiful with her silvery hair, exuding a calm and dignified aura.
“Yuan’er,” Shen Yuxin called, her voice gentle and filled with doting. “You handled the ceremony well. Your display of igniting the Radiant Flame was really superb.”
Shen Yuan chuckled softly, his playful voice sounded, “Thank you, Mom. The ceremony was better than I had expected.”
Huo Rong grinned, stepping closer and lightly punching his shoulder. “Who knows how many young disciples fell for your evil charm.”
Bing Rong chuckled softly, her voice carrying a teasing note. “You were quite the spectacle today, Yuan. The disciples couldn’t take their eyes off you.”
Yun Xian’s lips curved into a faint smile as she added, “It’s not every day someone lights the Radiant Lotus Flame with such resonance. You’ve given them much to think about.”
Shen Yuan shrugged nonchalantly. “What can I say? I’m just that exceptional.”
Shen Yuxin rolled her eyes fondly but couldn’t hide the pride in her expression. “Now that the formalities are over, let’s head to the informal gathering. It’s a chance for you to connect with the other disciples and elders. It’ll be good for your standing in the sect.”
Shen Yuan raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Is that your subtle way of telling me to behave, Mom?”
Huo Rong snickered. “She’s right, though. You’ve got a reputation to uphold now, Yuan. Don’t go teasing everyone too much. And you also need to give a speech as soon as you reach there.”
Chen Yue, still standing nearby with Zhao Lian, interjected, “I’m really excited to hear his speech again. The last one still gives me chills.”
Zhao Lian nodded shyly as she saw so many people gathered here. “Senior Brother’s last speech was really inspiring.”
Shen Yuan laughed, the sound light and unrestrained. “Haha, don’t have expectations so high. I don’t have anything special prepared yet.”
Shen Yuxin shook her head with a small smile, gesturing for everyone to follow. “Come on, we shouldn’t keep them waiting.”