The small-eyed, plump sword cultivator's words were equal parts flattery and exaggeration, making it impossible to tell whether he harbored some ulterior motive.
But Su Shi'er knew that everyone present was an old fox, so he responded with equal caution.
"Senior, you flatter me. That day, I was able to severely injure Sun Wenyuan only because another expert within the Phantom Star Sect lent a hand!"
"Besides, given Sun Wenyuan's capabilities, the rumors outside are likely no more than rumors. They cannot be trusted!"
The small-eyed, plump sword cultivator looked at Su Shi'er with a beaming smile. "Rumor or fact, it matters not. Even if someone helped you, Fellow Daoist, daring to clash head-on with a Nascent Soul giant while only at the Golden Core stage—such courage truly leaves this poor Daoist astonished!"
Su Shi'er smiled faintly and said calmly, "A person's potential is limitless. If the people and matters Senior cared about encountered danger, I imagine Senior would step forward just as this junior did!"
The small-eyed, plump sword cultivator's eyes brimmed with appreciation, yet he shook his head. "Not necessarily! There are far too many regrets in this world where one has the will but lacks the strength. In the end, it still comes down to one's ability and power!"
"Senior speaks truly. But this junior... was indeed merely fortunate."
Su Shi'er's expression remained placid. Yet rather than continue arguing, he swept his gaze over the four people present, changed the subject, and asked aloud.
"Hmm? I wonder where Senior Xiao Muzi is now. Why have I not seen him today?"
The small-eyed, plump sword cultivator's expression turned solemn as he immediately replied, "Thank you for your concern, Fellow Daoist! Martial Brother Xiao Muzi went to the East Sea Archipelago in search of an opportunity to eliminate demons,