Turbid Abyss Sea, Spirit Rhinoceros Island.
A thousand-foot-long Cloudship cut through the vast banks of mist and abruptly descended over the island. Radiance flowed across its hull, scattering specks of starlight.
The cloud-shrouded Third Tier Grand Array over the island opened a broad passage of its own accord, without its master directing it.
The Cloudship slowly descended along the passage and came to a steady hover above the island's main peak.
The cabin doors opened soundlessly.
True Person Xi Hong stepped out first, wearing a blue robe and a cloud-patterned headcloth, his expression warm. Chu Mo and the other two followed, taking their places to either side.
On the peak, True Person Spirit Rhinoceros had already assembled the island's clansmen, disciples, and guest retainers. A dense crowd stood respectfully before them, silent as a flock of crows.
His face was still somewhat pale, despair filling the depths of his eyes. Clearly, he had accepted reality. Behind him, the others scarcely dared to breathe, unsure why their island lord and patriarch had been reduced to this state.
"I, Spirit Rhinoceros, together with the island's cultivators, respectfully welcome your exalted arrival."
True Person Spirit Rhinoceros's voice was dry, as though the words had exhausted all his strength. He immediately bowed deeply, his posture utterly humble.
At that moment, terror and unease gripped his heart. He could only hope this mysterious, unfamiliar creditor was not some cruel and tyrannical brute.
True Person Xi Hong looked him over with a smile, then said gently, "Rise. We will all be family from now on. There is no need to be so restrained."
Before the other man could relax, he issued his instructions directly. "Clear out your cave abode so we can use it for our deliberations. There are quite a few sect disciples behind me.