The Breath-Stealing Gift

The Su clan member gave a dry laugh at her words, then said, "Rest assured, Madam. The clan head is already making preparations. It'll be delivered to you in the next few days."

He sighed inwardly. The Su clan—especially the clan head's branch—had taken a huge loss this time!

Now they had to pay one price after another to the Sect Master, the Sect Master's Wife, the Li clan, and Pei Ling.

Most importantly, Su Zhenhe had failed to contend for the position of Holy Son. This time, the Su clan had rushed back and forth and paid such a tremendous price, only to draw water with a bamboo basket—an empty effort!

At the thought of this, every Su clan member felt a dull ache in their chest.

Just then, Si Hong Qingyan gave a soft "Huh?" She sensed that Pei Ling had brought the Eight Sects' true disciples into her valley.

Her delicate brows knitted slightly as she quickly considered the situation.

If Pei Ling had come alone to request an audience, then even if he was already a true disciple, she wouldn't have bothered with him.

After all, he wasn't a true disciple of the Si Hong Clan. Why waste her time on him?

But now, he had brought the Eight Sects' true disciples along...

With the true disciples of all nine sects arriving together, could this concern some major matter involving the Nine Great Sects?

At that thought, Si Hong Qingyan immediately ordered, "You may withdraw. I have guests."

The Su clan members promptly acknowledged her order, bowed, and took their leave.

※※※

Figures darted through the mountains and waters.

Just as Pei Ling was growing frantic, he saw a valley appear ahead.

At first, the valley was lush with vegetation, and everything seemed normal.

But the