The elder from the Flowing Cloud Sect wore an arrogant expression.
Every word he said hinted at the sheer number of disciples in the Flowing Cloud Sect.
Once they joined the alliance, they had to be given a senior position.
The chief steward of the Myriad Elixir Pavilion was the smoothest of the lot. He kept praising the Alliance Leader as a young hero, yet never once mentioned joining.
Clearly, they were all waiting to see which way the wind blew.
The External Affairs Hall disciple receiving them was sweating from the strain of dealing with them.
Just then.
Xuanyuan Tian Ji walked in from outside.
She wore a plain, long dress, her bearing cool and aloof, yet tempered with the composure of someone accustomed to authority.
"Miss Xuanyuan!"
The three envoys hurriedly rose and bowed.
Whatever they were thinking, they still had to observe all the proper courtesies.
Xuanyuan Tian Ji nodded slightly and took the seat of honor.
"You have come a long way. Forgive me for not coming out to welcome you."
Her voice was quiet and level, yet carried an innate authority.
"I will dispense with the pleasantries."
"I know why you are here."
"If you wish to join the alliance, you may."
"There is only one rule—military merit speaks."
"The more you contribute, the higher your standing and the greater your share of the benefits."
"If you intend to fish in muddy waters and reap benefits without lifting a finger, save your breath."
She cut straight to the point, without the slightest dithering.
The three envoys exchanged glances, all somewhat surprised.
Was she really being this blunt?
The Flowing Cloud Sect elder spoke first, giving a couple of dry chuckles.
"You must be joking, Miss Xuanyuan."
"Our Flowing Cloud Sect is, of course, sincere about