His journey was smooth and unobstructed. He encountered no resistance; clearly, someone had put in a word beforehand.
When Liu Yu entered the great hall, several people were already waiting there. His gaze swept across them, and he unexpectedly spotted a familiar figure.
"Yan Qun'er?"
She had bright eyes, pearly teeth, shoulder-length hair, and neatly trimmed bangs. She still wore an understated pink dress, and without a trace of makeup, she resembled a lotus rising from clear water. Compared with years ago, she had clearly matured considerably.
Seeing this man who often came to mind and had left such a deep impression on her, delight flashed in Yan Qun'er's bright eyes. Given the occasion, however, she held off on greeting him.
Several Foundation Establishment cultivators stood on either side, with Sect Leader Zhuang Ziling in the middle. No one spoke, and the atmosphere felt somewhat heavy.
"I arrived late. Please forgive me, Senior Brother Sect Leader!"
Liu Yu was somewhat surprised to find Yan Qun'er here, but felt nothing particularly special about it. After all, his decision to help her back then had also been motivated by his own interests.
His expression remained unchanged as he briefly surveyed the others, then cupped his hands toward Zhuang Ziling and spoke openly.
"No matter. You aren't particularly late, Junior Brother Liu. Please wait a little longer; a few junior brothers have yet to arrive."
A faint smile appeared on Zhuang Ziling's face, and his tone was unusually gentle.
Liu Yu nodded, took his place to one side, and remained silent.
These people apparently all had to head to the front lines. None was in a particularly good mood, and most had no inclination to talk. The great hall fell quiet for a time, with another Foundation Establishment cultivator arriving every so often.