Hanshan City's yamen was solemn and imposing. A massive magistrate's desk stood in the center of the spacious main hall, and seated upright in the grand chair behind it was a man in official robes, his face stern and dignified.
Master Wang hurried into the hall and went straight to stand behind the man seated above. He lowered his head and clasped his hands, waiting respectfully for instructions.
This yamen was the heart of Hanshan Prefecture. Naturally, the only person who dared sit in the main hall was Prefect Wang Wen, who oversaw all affairs great and small throughout the prefecture and wielded immense authority.
Wang Wen spoke softly, uttering two words.
"How did it go?"
Master Wang said ingratiatingly.
"My lord, I went to take a look. Only Zhu Wushi and the others were at the inn; Bai Yi was not there. The gifts have been accepted, and the matter has been discussed. They will attend the banquet tonight."
Wang Wen smiled.
"Only natural. Didn't they come here to deal with the various powers of Hanshan Prefecture? Bai Yi should have gone to the Divine Fist Sect. After all, he has ties with Teng Xiong, so that would be his first choice.
"Tell them all to show some sincerity tonight. His Highness will be arriving, and we will need this man to speak for us then. Whether we succeed or fail will be decided tonight."
Master Wang then withdrew with a fawning expression to make preparations.
By afternoon, Bai Yi had arrived before the mountain gate of the Divine Fist Sect. Unburdened by luggage and traveling alone as an Ascension Realm expert, he naturally moved quickly.
Looking at the Divine Fist Sect disciples guarding the gate, Bai Yi stepped forward and said in a deep voice.
"Go find your