As they walked toward the gathering area, the atmosphere between them was warm and lively.
The gathering had taken a lively turn, and as Shen Yuan faced his challengers, he couldn’t help but feel a thrill of excitement. This was just the beginning of a new chapter in his journey, and he was ready to embrace it fully.
As the group approached the informal gathering, the crowd parted slightly to allow the esteemed figures to pass.
Shen Yuxin, Huo Rong, Bing Rong, and Yun Xian headed towards the area designated for the elders—a section raised slightly above the rest, adorned with ornate seating and a view overlooking the entire giant courtyard.
Chen Yue and Zhao Lian followed closely behind their masters, Huo Rong and Bing Rong, their lively chatter softening as they neared the more formal atmosphere of the elders’ area.
Before parting, Chen Yue glanced back at Shen Yuan, giving him a playful wink. Zhao Lian offered a small, polite wave before turning to follow her master.
Left alone amidst the bustling crowd, Shen Yuan took a moment to scan the area.
His sharp eyes observed the mingling disciples, their gazes often flickering towards him with curiosity or expectation. His presence, even without any deliberate attempt to command attention, naturally drew all eyes.
At the center of the courtyard, a small raised platform stood empty, clearly reserved for something significant.
Shen Yuan’s lips curled into a faint smile as he made his way toward it, his confident strides parting the crowd effortlessly.
Conversations quieted as everyone turned to watch, anticipation thick in the air.
Once he reached the center, Shen Yuan stopped, his figure enhanced by the golden glow of the setting sun.
He looked around, his gaze calm yet piercing, meeting the eyes of disciples and elders alike. The murmurs faded into complete silence, and all attention focused solely on him.
Clearing his throat lightly, Shen Yuan began, his voice steady and resonant, carrying across the entire courtyard.
“Fellow disciples, elders, and esteemed Sect Leader,” he started, inclining his head respectfully toward Mei Hua and the elders’ seating area. “Today marks a milestone, not just for me, but for the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect as a whole.”
Shen Yuan let the silence linger for a moment, his gaze sweeping across the gathered disciples and elders.
The weight of his presence commanded attention, and when he spoke again, his voice was calm but carried a deep conviction.
“Today is not just about me,” he began. “It is about the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect, our shared strength, and our future. Each one of us here represents a vital thread in the tapestry of this great sect. Together, we form something far greater than the sum of our individual parts.”
He paused, his eyes locking with several Core Disciples who had been watching him with varying degrees of curiosity and skepticism.
“I know that my path has been different. Rapid progress, backing, treasures, pagoda… These things might seem unusual, even unfair to some. But I assure you, nothing I have gained has come without effort, without sacrifice. The recent Tribulation is the prime example.”
“When others break through to the Extreme Origin Core Creation Realm without any problem, I had to face a Tribulation that nearly killed me.”
Shen Yuan’s voice deepened, resonating with an almost tangible authority. “Our sect thrives because of the values we uphold: unity, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.”
“These values are not confined to our cultivation. They are reflected in how we support one another, how we rise to challenges, and how we contribute to the greater good of the sect. And this—is the greatest proof of our mortal selves.”
“We are not Gods, neither are we Immortals, nor are we Devils. Mortal is what we are, and through the path of Mortals shall we prosper.”
The disciples murmured softly, nodding as his words struck a chord. Even the elders in their elevated seats exchanged approving glances.
“To that end,” Shen Yuan continued, his tone lightening just slightly, “I want to share with all of you something that has been a personal endeavor of mine during my recent seclusion.”
“As cultivators, we know that strength comes not only from cultivation but also from the tools and resources we have at our disposal. And so, I dedicated myself to refining both pills and artifacts that can aid our sect.”
With a flick of his wrist, Shen Yuan summoned a series of neatly arranged jade boxes and glowing artifacts, each radiating a faint aura of power. The items floated gently before him, suspended in the air by his Qi.
“These are Tier 1 to Tier 3 pills and artifacts,” he explained, gesturing toward the collection.
“The pills are from Extreme Peak Tier and up to three-vein quality, and the artifacts have been crafted to at least High Quality and made to suit various needs. While they may not be the most advanced, I believe they can serve as valuable tools for our disciples.”
The crowd erupted into whispers, eyes widening at the sight of the treasures. Even the most experienced elders couldn’t hide their surprise, their expressions shifting from curiosity to astonishment.
Mei Hua leaned forward slightly, her serene demeanor giving way to visible surprise. “Three-vein pills… Such a level of refinement is incredibly rare, even among master alchemists,” she murmured, more to herself than anyone else.
‘Looks like it was wise of me to give that Medallion to him. That investment has already been paid back in full,’ she thought with a gentle smile. Her eyes softened further when she looked at the confident smile on Shen Yuan’s face.
Huo Rong’s eyes sparkled with pride, while Bing Rong exchanged a glance with Yun Xian, both of them clearly impressed.
Shen Yuxin, however, was just as surprised as the rest. She had known Shen Yuan’s talents, but this was beyond her expectations.
Shen Yuan smiled faintly, addressing the crowd once more. “I know that alchemy and artifact refinement are not my primary focus, but I have always believed in contributing to the sect in every way possible. These pills and artifacts are my way of giving back, of strengthening the foundation that has supported me.”
He gestured toward the items. “These are for the sect. For you, my fellow disciples, to use as you see fit. The Sect Leader and elders will determine how they are distributed. My only wish is that they be used to aid those who truly need them.”
The plaza fell silent again, but this time the atmosphere was heavy with awe and respect. Shen Yuan had not only proven his skill but had also demonstrated his commitment to the sect in a way that few could question.
After a moment, Mei Hua rose from her seat, her voice carrying over the gathering. “Shen Yuan, your actions today have not only strengthened our sect but have also set an example for all of us.”
“Your dedication, humility, and generosity reflect the very ideals we hold dear. On behalf of the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect, I thank you.”
The crowd erupted into applause, the sound reverberating through the ceremonial grounds. Disciples looked at Shen Yuan with newfound admiration, while even the most stoic elders nodded in approval.