Supreme Martial Champion, an Imperial Plaque, and the Path of Cultivation

The National Preceptor's Residence.

"A-Ning!" Liu Wanwan's eyes widened at the sight of Jiang Ning.

"Sister-in-law!" Jiang Ning smiled.

"What are you wearing..." Liu Wanwan's breath caught.

"The champion's robe!" Jiang Ning smiled again.

At those three words of confirmation, Liu Wanwan's pupils contracted.

"Brother Li! Brother Li! Come out, quick! Come see A-Ning!"

Before two breaths had passed, a tall figure rushed out of the house.

It was Jiang Li.

He stopped before Jiang Ning, his breathing quickening.

"Little brother, is that..."

"The champion's robe!" Jiang Ning smiled.

"You really became the martial champion!" Jiang Li's eyes went as wide as bronze bells.

"It was mine for the taking!" Jiang Ning said with a grin.

"You little rascal!" Jiang Li laughed and thumped Jiang Ning's chest twice, each blow landing with a resounding bang.

"How about a few drinks with your big brother later?" Jiang Li asked.

"I'll drink with you to the end!" Jiang Ning said, smiling.

"If our parents were still alive, I can't imagine how happy they'd be to see you today!" A wistful look crossed Jiang Li's face.

Jiang Ning smiled but did not pick up the subject.

"Enough of that!" Jiang Li rallied. "Get some rest, little brother. Your sister-in-law and I will have lunch ready soon. Then you and I can have a proper drink!"

"Why don't we wait a little, big brother?" Jiang Ning said suddenly.

"Wait for what?" Jiang Li looked puzzled.

"Listen to what's happening outside," Jiang Ning said.

At that, Jiang Li pricked up his ears and listened beyond the National Preceptor's Residence.

His eyes gradually widened.

"Gongs and drums? What's that about?"

"People from the palace are coming," Jiang Ning said. "They should be bringing my champion's robes and plaque!"

Jiang Li's eyes lit up.

"An imperial plaque