Sect Master Peak, the Forbidden Sword Mound on the Back Mountain.
Fifteen Inner Sect Elders, including Yuan Jingtu, stared intently at the fissure in the earth before them, their expressions deeply grave.
They had waited a long time at the forbidden ground's entrance, but Han Kang and Lin Mo had yet to appear. After some discussion, they had risked punishment for violating sect rules and entered the Sword Tomb to search for the two.
Yet they had never expected to encounter this sight the moment they entered.
"This fissure was likely opened by the Sect Master using his bonded Treasured Artifact, the Black-Gold Pestle."
War Hall Master Ao Hong, the grand elder, examined the edge of the fissure before saying solemnly, "The Black-Gold Pestle is a blunt weapon, which is why the edges of this fissure are so uneven. The signs are unmistakable."
"If my judgment is correct, the Sect Master and Lin Mo have already ventured deep underground. Stand guard here, everyone. I'll go down and take a look!"
Everyone nodded. Without another word, Ao Hong rose into the air on his Flying Sword, ready to plunge into the fissure.
Just then.
A sharp whistle suddenly rang out from below.
Han Kang shot upward, with Lin Mo following closely on his Flying Sword. They soared out from the bottom of the fissure and swiftly landed before the assembled elders.
"It's the Sect Master!"
"Lin Mo is out too... he really survived!"
"Welcome back, Sect Master..."
Wild joy filled their faces. Ao Hong landed as well, and they all bowed in greeting.
Han Kang waved casually, indicating that there was no need for ceremony. Then he turned to Lin Mo and smiled. "Since everyone is here, I might as well take this opportunity to make an announcement."
"From this day