Sky-Transcending Sacred City, City Lord's Mansion. Azure blossoms drifted down, and everywhere blazed with dazzling blue flames, a sight so beautiful it intoxicated the heart.
Within West Garden Pavilion, an old man with white beard, white hair, and white robes sat quietly. His eyes were weathered by time, yet shone with the light of wisdom.
The Tian Yue City Lord was one of the rare great sages of the mortal world. Having lived for several thousand years, he had seen through the storms and clouds of human life and grown indifferent to worldly strife.
Outside the pavilion, the Seventh Divine General of the Sacred City arrived with Luo Xingchen. Stopping before the pavilion, she bowed respectfully and said, "City Lord, Luo Xingchen has been brought."
"Mm. You may withdraw first," the Tian Yue City Lord said.
"Yes!"
The Seventh Divine General accepted the order, cast a warning glance at the young man beside her, then turned and left.
Inside the pavilion, Luo Xingchen stepped forward. The arrogant, unruly expression on his face vanished entirely as he bowed respectfully. "Greetings, City Lord."
"Sit," the Tian Yue City Lord said with a smile.
"Thank you, City Lord."
Luo Xingchen cautiously glanced around. Only after sensing no ambush did he step forward and sit down.
"How many years have you been here?" the Tian Yue City Lord asked with a smile.
"Forty years."
Luo Xingchen answered truthfully.
"Forty years. You have grown considerably," the Tian Yue City Lord said softly.
"With friends as monstrous as them, Luo Xingchen dared not stand still. Otherwise, next time, I would be the one getting schemed to death," Luo Xingchen said with a smile.
"To have a friend willing to live and die alongside you like the Ninth Son of Ink Sect is your blessing. Cherish it