The Sect Master nodded slightly, then took out a cluster of flowering branches that seemed to have just been snapped from a bough. The blossoms were half-open, delicate and radiant, as if all the breath of spring had gathered upon them, lending them an indescribable vitality.
They were identical to the flowering tree beside the deep pool beneath the scarlet petals and cascading waterfall.
Only, threaded through these branches were fine strands of gold, so subtle they were hard to distinguish at a glance. They glimmered with shifting points of light, making the cluster seem all the more splendid and regal.
The Sect Master motioned for Yan Minghua to come forward and take it, then said calmly, "Three days from now, I will fight Pei Ling."
"If I win, all the better."
"If I lose, take this Shenhui Wood and assume the position of Sect Master."
"You have already reached the middle stage of Spirit Transformation. You still have a long way to go before returning to the Void, but with your foundation and talent, it surely won't take too long."
"Grand Elder Qi and Grand Elder Meng will both support you."
Yan Minghua froze at her master's words, immediately understanding what she meant. She hurriedly said, "Master, please don't do this! Pei Ling may be the Holy Son of the Chongming Sect, but he's kindhearted and benevolent. He would never strike to kill. You'll be fine..."
Before she could finish, the Sect Master shook her head slightly and cut her off. "Remember!"
"Once you become Sect Master, you must put Suzhen Heaven above all else. Never let your emotions dictate your actions!"
"Do not bring shame upon the reputation of Suzhen Heaven's legacy!"
With that, the Sect Master stirred her thoughts. A gentle force lifted the Shenhui Wood and