"No, this assembly differs somewhat from previous years. With demonic disturbances frequently breaking out everywhere and the world in turmoil, the sect did not extend large-scale invitations to too many sects. Some of those invited also sent notices saying that, due to what seemed to be some upheaval within their own sects, they would not be attending this Immortal Apricot Assembly. Sister Liu's sect was not among those invited; I invited her here to observe and gain experience," Li Shu said, shaking her head.
"I can only watch; I have no chance to participate. When the time comes, we'll have to see Fellow Daoist Shen display his might," Liu Qing said with a smile.
"I'll cheer for Brother Shen too," Li Shu added.
"Which other sects will be attending this assembly?" Shen Luo asked with an unconcerned smile.
"Besides the Great Tang Government Office, Huasheng Temple, and our Mount Putuo, fellow cultivators from the Dragon Palace, Azure Lotus Temple, Mount Jiuhua, Greatsword Sect, Grand Response Temple, and Mount Emei will also be attending. Each sect has sent only one Out-of-Body Stage disciple, less than a third of the number from previous years," Li Shu said.
"The Dragon Palace will be participating too?" Shen Luo asked in surprise.
"Yes. I heard that the Ninth Prince of the East Sea Dragon Palace will be attending," Li Shu said, her expression becoming slightly unnatural.
Shen Luo knew that the relationship between the Great Tang imperial family and the Dragon Race was somewhat delicate, so he did not pursue the matter further. Still, hearing that he might see the Ninth Prince, Ao Hong, again made him rather happy.
Moreover, from what Li Shu had said, the number of participants in this Immortal Apricot Assembly had been drastically reduced. That was good news for him,