The Dharma Assembly Begins

The next day, before dawn had broken, figures were already bustling in and around the Clear Sand River Water Manor.

As the morning sun rose, ten thousand golden rays spilled across the river, illuminating the newly refurbished manor and square and lending them an even grander air.

The square had been prepared well in advance. Its white-jade paving gleamed like a mirror; ceremonial pillars stood on all sides, banners fluttered, and colored silk embroidered with Clear Sand River motifs danced in the breeze.

The central platform was simple and imposing. Behind it, tables and meditation cushions had been arranged for the honored guests, with spirit fruits and fragrant tea set out before them.

Farther away, ten martial arenas of varying sizes and the neatly planned market area stood ready.

A faint, ceaselessly shifting spiritual glow enveloped the entire venue. The composite grand array was active, lending the gathering an immortal air while drawing in spiritual energy and protecting the grounds.

From the start of the morning hour, escape lights arrived from every direction and landed in the designated area of Dockside Market. After the Clear Sand Guard checked their travel permits or temporary passes, the visitors entered the venue in orderly fashion.

Before long, people thronged the square. It was noisy, but orderly.

Most were Qi Refining cultivators, traveling alone or in groups of three or five. There were plenty of Foundation Establishment cultivators too, most of whom were escorted to the front or the honored guests' area.

Their clothes and accents varied widely. Some were local cultivators from the Vast Blue Waters; others were merchants and travelers who had come from afar.

Wang Ming wore a brand-new chief steward's outfit and beamed as he moved between the entrance and the honored guests' seats with several sharp, capable stewards, greeting