"Haha, Teacher, no need to be so formal."
The Azure Nether Dominator waved a hand, grinning broadly.
He looked at Xu Jingming, his eyes full of undisguised admiration and wonder.
"I came out of seclusion after more than a thousand years and heard Teacher had taken on a remarkable junior brother.
"In less than fifty years, you've caused such a stir that you even dared to stand against a Supreme Dominator.
"And you won over Qianxue and Junior Sister Ye Li, too...
"Ahem. Anyway, I'm impressed!
"I was never half as bold as you at your age!"
As Eldest Brother, he knew exactly what Lin Qianxue and Ye Li were like.
He had even thought those two junior sisters of his were so devoted to cultivation
that, like Teacher, they might never take a partner in their lives.
Yet somehow, his junior brother had won them both over.
Talent and strength were one thing.
But when it came to winning women's hearts, he genuinely had to admire him.
"You flatter me, Eldest Brother. I was just fortunate."
Xu Jingming smiled modestly. He was already warming to this easygoing eldest brother of his.
"Too much modesty is just another kind of pride."
The Azure Nether Dominator waved a hand, then turned to Ye Li.
"Junior Sister Ye Li, congratulations on your breakthrough. Night Sky Dominator suits you."
"Thank you, Eldest Brother." Ye Li smiled.
As they spoke, a soft, solemn light suddenly illuminated the hall's domed ceiling.
Dong—
An ancient, majestic bell tolled through the space, its echoes lingering.
"The judgment is about to begin. Let's take our seats."
The Frost Crown Dominator spoke with a smile.
The others in the hall also took their seats.
As Xu Jingming walked over, he spotted a familiar figure in a nearby seat.
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