A faint, hazy daylight seeped through the narrow crack in the door. In the dim chill of early morning, a tall, straight figure stood quietly beside it.
He spoke warmly. "Young Master Pei, where are you heading at this late hour?"
Pei Ye looked over. The old man wore a cloak, like a statue in the shadows-Gao Feigong.
Then Pei Ye remembered that ever since he entered the city, Gao Feigong had been following him in secret.
Pei Ye fell silent for a moment. He knew four armored soldiers stood diligently on guard outside the door, and farther out, two carriages-one ornate, one plain-waited in the courtyard for his use.
"...Hello, Commander Gao. I'm going to the Immortal Platform."
"Oh, I'll have a carriage prepared for you."
"No need. I'll walk by myself."
"Then I'll accompany you."
"There's no need for that either."
"..."
Holding Black Cat, Pei Ye looked quietly at the commander. "Unless you insist, Commander."
Gao Feigong paused. "...Of course, as you wish."
"Thank you."
Pei Ye pushed open the door, and the cold swept into his face from the empty street.
Pei Ye walked along the side of the street without saying much, strolling with his sword in his arms as he watched the stars above. Gradually, the stars disappeared too, the sky brightened, and the streets began to stir with life.
Today was the day the Register Compilation Assembly reached its conclusion. The top twenty-two Sword Talents would have their rankings revised, and that legendary young hero would appear at the Jade Sword Platform. The whole city had awoken a little earlier than usual.
Along the way, Pei Ye saw many people heading toward the Jade Sword Platform in groups, mostly people of the Jianghu or sect members in unfamiliar clothing. There were many he