Central Province.
It was morning.
Mo Yun and Lin Qingxue arrived at the Five Elements Sect's mountain gate.
The towering gate was flanked by two enormous bluestone pillars. Lifelike totems of divine beasts corresponding to the five elements were carved into them, and the entire structure radiated a faint oppressive aura.
"Halt!"
A guard in a white robe patterned with gold stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over Mo Yun and Lin Qingxue.
Mo Yun took a step forward and cupped his hands. "Senior Brother, Deacon Li Xinghe invited the two of us here to join the Five Elements Sect's Metal Lineage."
As he spoke, he took the letter Lin Yanshan had given him from inside his robe and handed it over.
The guard accepted the letter and inspected it, then softened considerably. "So you're Deacon Li's guests. Please wait a moment."
The other guard turned and went inside to announce their arrival.
Before long, a young disciple emerged from the gate and cupped his hands toward them. "Please follow me."
Mo Yun and Lin Qingxue followed the disciple up the winding steps.
The Five Elements Sect occupied a vast expanse of land. Seven main peaks rose into the clouds like seven pillars holding up the heavens, housing the seven lineages of metal, wood, water, fire, earth, wind, and lightning.
The disciple led them onto the peak that housed the Metal Lineage.
Along the way, Mo Yun silently surveyed his surroundings, committing the route to memory.
Before long, the three arrived before a side hall.
"Please wait here. Deacon Li will be with you shortly." With that, the disciple withdrew.
The side hall was not large, but its furnishings were quite elegant.
Several paintings of white tigers pouncing on their prey hung on the walls. Their bold, sharp brushstrokes exuded a