Fang Qianyuan and the others soon sensed the unusual atmosphere on shore as well.
Fang Qianyuan had little to say about it. He simply went through the formalities of the delegation's reception, then led his people toward their lodgings.
The accommodations Eastwind Island had arranged for Fang Qianyuan were on a small island in the Inner Bay Archipelago, only thirty-odd li from the city here. Even a human rank Spirit Tamer could make the trip quickly on a spirit creature.
Elder Yu of the Flying Immortal Sect was staying on another small island in the archipelago, only a hundred-odd li away.
An elder from the Flying Immortal Sect's Heavenly Observation Court had already sent Fang Qianyuan an invitation to meet that evening. Such social engagements were necessary in dealings between the two sects, so Fang Qianyuan naturally accepted.
After they reached their lodgings, Fang Lian took just one look from outside before a satisfied expression appeared on her face. Away from the people of Eastwind Island, she told Fang Qianyuan privately, "It looks quite nice."
Fang Qianyuan said, "Although these people have no business interests linking them to us, they know that another friend means another road open to them. It's only hospitality-something that earns goodwill at little cost. Naturally, they ought to do it well."
Fang Lian said, "Eastwind Island lies in the middle of the Eastern Sea and welcomes merchants and travelers from every direction, so they're very good at this sort of thing. But the Flying Immortal Sect seems different. They didn't even send their delegation's deputy to welcome us at the harbor."
Fang Qianyuan said, "We did put their geniuses in their place aboard the ship, after all."
Fang Lian said, "Then it seems they want to win back some face?"
Fang Qianyuan said, "It doesn't