Main Peak, Stewards' General Hall.
At his words, the middle-aged steward behind the counter immediately stood, not daring to show the slightest neglect. Bowing slightly, he replied, "Please wait a moment. I'll go in and announce your arrival."
With that, he turned and strode into the inner hall deep within the Stewards' General Hall. His footsteps soon faded at the end of the corridor.
A moment later, a familiar, steady presence emanated from the inner hall. It was the aura of Chief Elder Ouyang Jingxuan.
Before long, Ouyang Jingxuan's refined figure emerged from the depths of the inner hall at an unhurried pace, his hair and beard half white.
He wore a dark teal elder's robe with a jade belt at his waist. His steps were composed and his gaze calm, and he immediately spotted Yang Jing standing tall in the center of the hall.
A flicker of approval crossed Ouyang Jingxuan's eyes. Smiling, he strode toward Yang Jing and spoke in a warm, friendly tone. "Yang Jing, you're here quickly. I imagine you couldn't wait to enter the Aperture-Nurturing Jade Pool to cultivate."
Seeing Ouyang Jingxuan appear, Yang Jing immediately bowed slightly, his bearing respectful and his voice clear. "Greetings, Chief Elder."
Ouyang Jingxuan smiled and raised a hand, gesturing for him to straighten. His gaze swept over Yang Jing, noting his steady presence and abundant internal qi. Clearly, he was in excellent condition. He asked with a smile, "So, you want to enter the Aperture-Nurturing Jade Pool? Is everything ready now?"
Yang Jing nodded solemnly, his gaze resolute. "Chief Elder, this disciple has long since made all the necessary preparations. All that remains is to enter the pool and cultivate."
Ouyang Jingxuan nodded lightly, satisfaction in his eyes. "Good. Since you're ready, come with me."
With that, Ouyang