An Unexpected Change

A Sudden Change at the Water Marsh Sect

In a silent courtyard.

Sandalwood incense rose slowly from a bronze burner, twisting into a pale thread in the gloom.

A six-tusked White Elephant lay beside a meditation cushion.

With every breath from its trunk hanging to the ground, frosty white mist billowed forth, spreading outward along the floor and shrouding the entire room in a faint chill.

The White Elephant's body was as flawless as warm jade, yet if a Painting Realm cultivator were present, they would surely sense the terrifying aura lurking within this demon beast's body.

A gray-robed monk sat cross-legged upon the meditation cushion.

A string of plump, lustrous bodhi beads hung from his hand. His eyes were slightly closed, and though his features were ordinary, he carried an unspoken majesty that made one feel his wrath without his ever needing to show it.

Water Marsh Master stood below him, head bowed as he reported, "Venerable One."

"Today, the Water Marsh Sect has opened its mountain gates. The people of Great Marsh Township have all been drawn into the net, and the Rogue Cultivators from every quarter have also been properly settled."

At this.

The gray-robed monk did not raise his eyelids. His thumb rolled over a bodhi bead, and a crisp click echoed through the quiet chamber.

"You have worked hard."

Water Marsh Master took a deep breath, his face then filling with obsequious flattery. "To serve the Sumeru Sect and ease Your Venerable's burdens is the Water Marsh Sect's great fortune."

"It's only..."

As he spoke.

He hesitated for a long while before finally lowering his voice. "It's only that the past few Thousand Rain Grand Rites have caused rather a commotion. Though we have greased the palms of the local City Gods, there is no