Heavenly Pride Hall

"Why does Sect Master Zhou care about who I am? What you care about is whether I can achieve a better ranking in the upper sect selection and bring you more resources! Who I am makes no difference to you."

Zhang Tie's expression was as calm as still water, and his voice was so steady that not a trace of emotion could be heard, as if he were discussing something entirely unrelated to himself.

Seeing him remain so unruffled beneath the pressure of his Peak Golden Core cultivation, Zhou Xuan Shi could not help but reveal a flicker of surprise in his eyes.

One had to know that ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators would tremble and sweat profusely beneath his pressure. Simply standing firm would already be difficult. Yet Zhang Tie not only remained composed, even his breathing had not faltered in the slightest.

The pressure in the cave abode suddenly vanished. The surprise on Zhou Xuan Shi's face transformed into a radiant smile, his eyes and brows filled with cordial warmth. "Fellow Daoist is absolutely right. If Fellow Daoist enters the upper sect someday, please do not forget the humble foundation of our Hundred Refinements Sect."

"Of course."

Zhang Tie nodded slightly. Though his tone was calm, it carried a measure of solemnity. "No matter what, I am still a disciple of the Hundred Refinements Sect. There is still some bond between us."

Zhou Xuan Shi's smile deepened as he took something from his sleeve. "Tomorrow, we will depart for the Heavenly Pride Hall, where the upper sect selection will take place. I came today to inform Fellow Daoist. Please gather outside the Council Hall early tomorrow morning.

"Oh, and I have a Life Substitution Talisman here. It is only effective for those at Foundation Establishment or below. It is