"Little Pine, long time no see. How did you get so old?"
"I remember that before I fell asleep last time, you were still a handsome young man. Now you're already old and frail."
"I'd say you've got about eight thousand years left to live. By the time I wake up next time, I'll probably only be able to pay my respects at your grave."
The True Dragon lowered its head slightly and looked at the four Great Elders, its voice indifferent and utterly devoid of emotion.
Even so, the Great Elder still sensed a hint of gentleness in the True Dragon's voice.
"Lord True Dragon, Little Pine is now the sect's Great Elder. It's been a very, very long time since anyone called me Little Pine. I'd advise you to show me a little more respect."
The Great Elder looked awkward, but didn't dare get angry.
Little Pine was what his senior brothers and sisters, his master and martial uncles had called him back then. But the years had swept by, and most of those old friends had returned to dust. Hearing that name again filled him with a little emotion.
"Speak. What is it?"
The True Dragon reined in its emotions and spoke calmly.
The Great Elder hurriedly bowed and replied:
"The Vermilion Bird Saintess has come to visit the sect. She informed us that the seal at Duanxian Cliff has weakened, and that we must send experts to suppress it."
"But Duanxian Cliff is extremely dangerous. Everyone in the sect has their own thoughts about whom to send, and we haven't been able to reach a decision."
"This junior is bold enough to ask the True Dragon to choose the candidates."
"Oh?"
The ice-blue giant dragon gave its head a slight shake and said mockingly:
"Little Pine,