Shen Luo turned a deaf ear to the voices around him. He merely cupped his hands toward Cheng Yaojin, Yuan Tiangang, and Qinglian Fairy's row in greeting, not even glancing at the Azure-Furred Lion King, Yang Jian, and the others. Ignoring the reactions of the crowd below, he walked to the only seat opposite them and sat down calmly.
When they saw Hu Bugui across from them, both of them froze briefly before nodding to each other in greeting.
Everyone present was stunned, and the voices of doubt and questioning instantly quieted.
None of them were fools. Seeing Shen Luo's actions go unchallenged, they knew his status had to be extraordinary, though their curiosity and confusion only deepened.
"Everyone, please remain calm. Fellow Daoist Shen is here today on behalf of Fangcun Mountain to confront Lion Camel Ridge, Demon King Stronghold, Spider Cave, and Lingbo City. He represents Patriarch Bodhi." Cheng Yaojin rose and stepped forward, clearing up everyone's doubts.
At these words, the people on the platform remained composed, clearly having known beforehand. Yet another commotion arose below, and the crowd began speculating about Shen Luo's identity. They guessed that he must be Patriarch Bodhi's direct disciple, perhaps even his most favored closed-door disciple.
However, Cheng Yaojin said nothing further about Shen Luo's other identities.
"Everyone, this Harmony-Evolving Conference is meant to guide the Three Realms toward harmony and advance the great cause of peace among all races. Yet not long ago, a major event that shocked the Three Realms and disturbed the peace occurred. I trust you have all heard of it: the siege of Fangcun Mountain." Cheng Yaojin cleared his throat and began.
At his words, the crowd fell silent once more.
"I know that all sorts of rumors concerning this matter have been spreading throughout the