Disposal of Bitao Sect
When Wang Yuan stepped out of the tunnel mouth, morning light was spilling over the ridge to the east of Chiyan Valley.
The crimson-robed warriors were clearing the battlefield and repairing fortifications in the valley.
The sound of iron hammers striking stone mingled with the chanting of men hauling timber, echoing through the valley with a bustling air of rebirth.
Yan Wushuang was the first to greet him, an undisguised joy carrying across his crimson face:
"Alliance Master, you've finally emerged from seclusion!"
Wang Yuan nodded at him, his gaze sweeping across the busy crowd in the valley, then shifting toward the northern pass.
The entrance to that narrow passage had been largely re-blocked with boulders and wooden palisades.
The crimson-robed warriors had built additional arrow towers on both sides of the cliff face, making the fortifications several times sturdier than before.
"Where are Valley Master Fencang and Tower Master Su?"
"They're both waiting in the Deliberation Hall."
"Sect Master Situ arrived this morning too, accompanied by Elder Mu. He said his wounds are mostly healed and insisted on coming over to take a look." Yan Wushuang lowered his voice to add:
"Sect Master Situ's complexion looks good, much better than a few days ago."
Wang Yuan gave a slight nod and strode toward the Deliberation Hall.
The Deliberation Hall of Chiyan Valley was set inside a natural rock cave at the bottom of the valley.
The cave walls were kept warm year-round by the residual heat of the earth fire, and the hall was furnished with a few rough wooden tables and a circle of stone stools—furnishings simple yet neat and efficient.
When Wang Yuan walked in, the few people in the hall stood up at the same time.
Daoist Fencang sat on an inner