Deliberations, Part Three

Chapter 737: Deliberations, Part Three. The Sect Master stood with his hands behind his back. His gaze swept slowly over everyone in the hall, and his voice was steady and solemn:

"The Candidate Saint Sons are the foundation of our Sect. They are prospective Peak Masters, charged with carrying on our legacy and strengthening the Sect. Their selection has always been a matter of great importance to us.

"And this Candidate Saint Son Grand Tournament is more important than ever."

He paused, his tone growing graver.

"I'm sure you can all see that the situation across the World is growing more chaotic. The Zhou Kingdom, the Demon Race, the various Military Governors, and the great sects are all quietly gathering their strength.

"The World will not be peaceful in the years to come.

"Therefore, the Candidate Saint Sons of our Three Origins Sect must be exceptionally strong. They must stand among the finest of their peers if they are to remain standing through the storms ahead."

The hall fell silent. Everyone listened intently.

The Sect Master continued, "This tournament will be different from those of the past.

"The Peak Masters and I have discussed it. We will invite the great sects to observe the tournament.

"We will also accept challenges from some of their disciples of the same generation, so that the might of our Three Origins Sect may be known.

"So every one of you must be fully prepared."

A murmur of discussion swept through the hall.

Some elders looked excited, while others frowned slightly, feeling that the move was too ostentatious.

But most eyes turned, almost as one, toward Flying Cloud Peak—and toward Li Xiao.

Inviting the great sects to observe and accepting challenges from their disciples meant this was no longer merely an internal contest. It would