The cheers outside gradually subsided only after a long while.
The birthday banquet came to an end. The cultivators and commoners who had come to offer their congratulations departed one after another, while the Azurewood Sect disciples busied themselves cleaning up the venue.
Spirit lamps still swayed on both sides of the mountain gate, casting the night sky in a dazzling wash of flowing light.
At the highest point of Treetop Jadeheart District, a viewing platform floated amid the clouds and mist.
Xu Changqing, Li Wudao, Mo Qiushui, and Xu Ping'an stood side by side, leaning on the railing as they looked down below.
Fengrao Commandery at night was ablaze with the lights of countless homes, brimming with the warmth of everyday life.
Scattered laughter and cheerful voices still drifted through the streets and alleys, painting a scene of peace and harmony.
After a moment of silence, Li Wudao was the first to speak, breaking the stillness. "Sect Master Xu, Liu Xuanzhou's visit today may have seemed like a birthday greeting, but in truth, he came under orders from the Immortal Sect's higher-ups to inform Ping'an that he must head to the Grand Void Rift for training as soon as possible."
Upon hearing this, the joy on Xu Ping'an's face faded, replaced by surprise. He hurriedly turned to Li Wudao. "Master, I only broke through to the Nascent Soul Realm not long ago. My realm hasn't even stabilized yet, and I already have to go to the Grand Void Rift?"
Though he possessed a bold, adventurous spirit, he also knew that his foundation was not yet solid.
Besides, there were still many things he had not finished. It was truly far too soon.
Xu Changqing frowned slightly and said, "It is indeed too early.
"At the very least, we should