Preparing for the Grand Competition

Li Xiao spent another half day in seclusion, stabilizing his cultivation until he had fully adapted to the power of his newly formed Glazed Body.

He clenched and unclenched his fists, moving every joint and feeling that deep, gentle strength flow slowly through him. Only when he was certain he could fully control his reborn body did he stop.

He rose and walked to the window. Looking toward the faint figures and banners on Returning Origin Peak, he murmured,

"My path to greatness is about to begin."

With the grand competition ahead, he felt not the slightest trace of nerves.

He had joined the Three Origins Sect far later than disciples who had grown up within it, but in a single year, he had laid a solid foundation.

The Flying Cloud Peak Master valued him, Elder Shi had taken him as a disciple, Elder Gu of the Alchemy Hall had supported him, his battlefield achievements were outstanding, and many disciples had chosen to follow him.

His standing was already far stronger than that of his peers.

He no longer gave a thought to the people Huangfu Yuan had once warned him to watch.

Whether Shen Qingyun or the other Marrow-Piercing disciples of Flying Cloud Peak, none remained a threat now that he had formed his Glazed Body.

Early the next morning, Li Xiao changed into the formal robes of a Flying Cloud Peak Inner Sect disciple and stepped out of his courtyard.

Morning light fell across his shoulders, stretching his shadow long.

He set off toward Returning Origin Peak with steady, unhurried strides, as though he were merely keeping an appointment long since ordained.

The mountain path up Returning Origin Peak was already roaring with voices. Disciples, elders, and deacons came and went, while several viewing platforms had been erected