No one present had expected Elder Zhao Qi to extend such an invitation.
The position of guest elder might not be part of a sect's core, but it was still highly prestigious, beyond the reach of ordinary people.
What was more, Xu Qing was the Sect Master of the Ancient Immortal Sect, one of the Four Alliances. His identity was exceptional.
Such an invitation was undoubtedly a double recognition of his strength and status.
The Illusion Spirit Sect Master also looked surprised, then cast Xu Qing a congratulatory glance.
Xu Qing himself remained calm on the surface, though his heart churned like a raging sea.
He knew full well that behind this invitation lay not only honor and status, but also responsibility and constraints.
"Senior Zhao, I am deeply grateful for your kind regard."
Xu Qing spoke slowly, his tone carrying both gratitude and hesitation.
"However, as the Sect Master of the Ancient Immortal Sect, I bear responsibility for the rise and fall of my sect. I fear it would be difficult for me to divide my attention elsewhere.
"Moreover, while the position of guest elder may be leisurely, one must still take responsibility for the sect. I need to consider this carefully."
Rather than becoming upset, Zhao Qi admired Xu Qing's caution and sense of responsibility even more.
He smiled faintly. "Sect Master Xu is right. This old man was too abrupt.
"But rest assured, the Talismans and Arrays Sect is inviting you to become a guest elder, not asking you to abandon the Ancient Immortal Sect.
"We merely hope that we may stand shoulder to shoulder and face the crisis in Central Province together.
"As for specific duties, they can naturally be arranged flexibly according to your circumstances."
Those words not only displayed the Talismans and Arrays Sect's