The next morning, the first light of dawn filtered through.
In the small courtyard halfway up True Martial Peak, Chen Qing held the Jingzhe Spear as he practiced his spear techniques.
The spear tip trembled lightly, slicing through the morning mist and raising faint whistles through the air.
He did not circulate True Essence, merely rehearsing the forms and sensing the rhythm of spear body and arm becoming one.
Just as his mind sank into the subtle transformations of the spear techniques, footsteps sounded beyond the courtyard gate.
Two figures with steady auras appeared at the entrance.
Chen Qing withdrew his spear and stood upright, raising his eyes to look.
They were Elder Pei, whom he had met several times in Tianshu Pavilion before, and Luo Ping, the Sect Leader's disciple.
"True Disciple Chen, how diligent," Luo Ping said first, a gentle smile on his face.
Elder Pei nodded slightly as well.
Chen Qing hurriedly put away the Jingzhe Spear and cupped his fists in salute. "Elder Pei, Elder Luo, your presence honors this place. Forgive me for failing to welcome you properly. Please, come inside and sit."
He led the two into the main hall.
After the three took their seats, Luo Ping got straight to the point. "Junior Brother Chen, congratulations."
Elder Pei took over, his tone calm yet solemn. "By yesterday's resolution in Tianshu Pavilion, you have officially been promoted to the Diheng Seat. The two of us have come today to handle the relevant formalities for you."
Chen Qing had anticipated this, but hearing the confirmation with his own ears still filled him with excitement.
He rose and gave the two a solemn bow. "Chen Qing thanks the sect for its generous favor, and thanks Elder Pei and Elder Luo for coming personally."
"No need for