After the Sword Appraisal Conference.
Huang Helou, Tian Jishu, and the other core members of the Azure Mountain Sword Sect had safely withdrawn to a nearby town. Having tallied the gains from this venture, every one of them wore smiles of barely restrained delight.
"Sect Leader Lu's arrangement was truly brilliant!"
Tian Jishu could not help but praise him. "Just half a day's work was enough to rival years upon years of our sect's development."
Huang Helou smiled with anticipation. "Once we return, we can truly begin planning our return to the ranks of the Eight Great Sword Sects. With resources and foundations like these, we should be able to hire several top-tier wanderers to support us for a few years and weather this awkward period."
Tian Jishu nodded in agreement. "During this time, I'll try to sell off the remaining treasured swords as quickly as possible. The more we can make, the better."
Huang Helou said concernedly, "Sect Leader Lu instructed us not to disrupt his disciple's plans."
"Don't worry." Tian Jishu gave a meaningful smile. "I plan to sell the rest to those top Soul Hunter groups. If the opportunity arises, we might even move some into the Southern Territory."
"That should work." Huang Helou sighed in relief, then reminded him, "Just remember to avoid the factions on good terms with Sect Leader Lu."
At that moment, an elder entered from outside.
"Good news, good news! Guess who ended up obtaining the Night Feather Sword?"
The smile on the elder's face was no less radiant than those of Huang Helou and Tian Jishu. Having remained behind at the conference, he had witnessed quite a spectacular show.
Tian Jishu said irritably, "Why all the suspense? What does whoever got the Night Feather Sword have to do with us?"
Huang