As soon as Gu Yuan finished speaking, the tense atmosphere in the hall eased slightly, though the oppressive feeling of a storm brewing still lingered.
Xiao Ze stood in the middle of the hall. Though the Purple-gold and Pitch-black Twin Flames around him had been subdued, the foundation of a nine-star Dou Sheng still made the surrounding Gu Clan Elders wary. Even the Three Immortals of the Ancient Clan looked at him with a measure of approval.
Xun'er rose from her seat and glided to Xiao Ze's side. "You've traveled a long way, Brother Xiao Ze. Why not come with me to the bamboo cottage behind the mountain and rest for a while? The leaders of the Yan-Lei Two Clans won't arrive for another three days, so you'll have time to recover your strength."
Xiao Ze nodded and agreed. After taking his leave of Yao Ling, Gu Dao, and the others, he followed Xun'er toward the hall's exit.
Along the way, members of the Ancient Clan saw Xun'er walking beside the newly ascended nine-star Dou Sheng, looking so close to him. Curious and awed gazes followed them, and whispers filled the air.
Clouds and mist swirled around the back mountain of the Ancient Clan. A secluded peak rose from the earth, its summit thick with bamboo. A breeze swept through, setting the leaves rustling like heavenly music.
The bamboo cottage was built against the mountainside. It was simple yet elegant, and a stream wound past its front, reflecting the verdant bamboo in its waters and lending the scene a singular charm.
"This is where I usually meditate. It's very peaceful." Xun'er pushed open the cottage door, and a faint bamboo fragrance wafted out. "Brother Xiao Ze, please rest here for now. I'll have someone bring you a meal."
Xiao Ze