"Does the Sect Leader mean for this disciple to lead a team to Wind-Snow City and resolve the matter?" Li Xiaoyu asked in a low voice.
"Exactly."
Daoist Daoxuan nodded, his gaze turning sharp.
"Xiaoyu, it's time the Dawn Squad saw some blood."
"This trip to Wind-Snow City will be the first trial for you and your team."
"I need you to lead your team into battle, to test your swords and sharpen your blades."
"Prove your ability to me and to the entire Green Cloud Sect."
Daoist Daoxuan's words stirred a tempest in Li Xiaoyu's heart.
"This disciple accepts the command!"
Facing Daoist Daoxuan, Li Xiaoyu knelt on one knee again, solemnly.
"This disciple will not fail the Sect Leader's trust. I will wipe out every fiend of the Styx Sect and restore peace to Wind-Snow City!"
"Good." Daoist Daoxuan looked at him with a pleased smile.
"Go."
"Choose your team members and do what you must."
"The entire Green Cloud Sect will be your solid backing."
"Yes!"
Li Xiaoyu rose and bowed deeply to Daoist Daoxuan once more.
Then he turned and strode out of Jade Purity Hall.
Daoist Daoxuan watched him leave, anticipation showing on his normally placid face.
Li Xiaoyu stepped out of Jade Purity Hall, sunlight spilling over him.
His heart burned with excitement.
The trial mission and the treasure-hunting goal had unexpectedly aligned.
Perhaps it was fate.
The first thing Li Xiaoyu did upon returning to Morning Sun Peak was find his master, Shang Zhengliang, and tell him everything: the Sect Leader's trial mission and his plans to form the Dawn Squad.
After listening, Shang Zhengliang's expression grew grave.
"The Styx Sect, a Ghost Path sect."
He pondered for a moment. "I've heard about this too."
"Word is, the Styx Sect is made up