"The Medicine Clan's sacred grounds are off-limits to anyone without an invitation."
They could sense the Medicine Clan's aura on Yao Lao, but they did not recognize Xiao Ze or Xiao Yan, and they were even more displeased by the utter lack of reverence in the calm expressions on their faces.
The cultivators nearby stopped and turned to look, curious.
Someone recognized Yao Lao and murmured, "Isn't that Yao Chen, the one who was expelled from the Medicine Clan all those years ago? He actually dares to come back!"
"That young man in black beside him looks like Xiao Ze of the Nine Heavens Alliance—the one who defeated the Soul Hall Master!"
"Tsk, tsk. He can't match the Medicine Clan in alchemy, so he brings a Dou Sheng Expert to put on a show? He's just asking to be humiliated."
Xiao Yan stepped forward, Dou Qi stirring faintly around him. "Xiao Yan of the Sky Mansion Alliance. I've accompanied Mr. Yao Chen to take part in the Medicine Ceremony. Here's the invitation."
He handed over the jade slip sent by the Medicine Clan's envoy. The guard took it and checked, but his expression remained icy. "Lord Yao Chen may enter, but if he wishes to bring outsiders, he'll need the clan elders' approval."
"Outsiders?"
Xiao Ze walked forward at an unhurried pace. The pressure of an eight-star Dou Sheng spread faintly from him, and the guards were instantly forced back several steps, their faces paling.
His gaze swept over the archway. His voice was calm, yet carried unquestionable authority. "Xiao Yan and I are companions of Mr. Yao Chen. We're entering with him today. If you can't stop us, go inform Yao Wangui. Tell him Xiao Ze has arrived."
"Xiao Ze?"
The guard's pupils contracted. The name had long been