Some time later, inside Wisdom King Cave on Mingwang Peak, True Person Budong gazed at the spirited Qing Chen before him, his eyes full of worry, and sighed softly.
"My disciple, Mysterious Pass Island is a long journey away, beyond high mountains and distant waters. I truly cannot set my mind at ease.
"Was this decision of yours not a little rash? After all, it has only been two and a half years since you successfully advanced to the Golden Core stage and stabilized your cultivation."
Hearing this, Qing Chen replied respectfully, "Master, as the saying goes, how could a flood dragon linger in shallow waters? I am not yet eighty. This is precisely the time for me to venture out."
True Person Budong nodded slightly, then asked:
"Do you know why the Council of Elders agreed to let you go to Mysterious Pass Island to take Senior Brother Heavenfire's place? In terms of seniority, you fall far short of the other elders."
Qing Chen snorted. "Hmph, that old fellow Yuji must have secretly prodded Elder Heavenfire into proposing it first. He has always harbored crooked thoughts and ill intentions toward our faction. How could I not know?"
True Person Budong's expression grew solemn. "Struggles between two factions have existed within sects since ancient times. We agreed to let you go mainly for the following reasons.
"First: although Heavenfire True Person is a cultivator with minor attainment in the middle Golden Core stage, he possesses two low-grade magic treasures, which he has nurtured for nearly two hundred years. His combat prowess is exceptional.
"But his temper is too fiery and his disposition too impatient. When it comes to matters requiring finesse, such as detection, apprehending criminals, and commanding troops, he truly cannot compare to you.
"Second: although the border around