Clang—
"Great Zhen Envoy, here to offer congratulations to Lady Ying—"
The distant sound of gongs and shouts traveled along the current. Ji Yuan and Mother Jujube had heard them as well, yet neither followed the sound. They merely stood on the riverbed, watching a swath of brilliantly bright Righteous Qi spread toward them from afar.
The Water Tribes around them also turned all their attention toward the source of the sounds. Some wore strange expressions, some looked baffled, and most had no idea what was happening, though a few suddenly understood.
"Mister Ji, isn't this a little too ostentatious?"
Mother Jujube gazed curiously into the distance. The moment she saw that radiance of Righteous Qi, she knew Master Yin had surely arrived.
"It is indeed somewhat ostentatious. But if it were not, taking this step would have no meaning. If it were not made conspicuous, how could Great Zhen's name spread throughout the world?"
Mother Jujube frowned. She wanted to ask more, yet felt she could not get to the heart of the matter. Ji Yuan glanced at her and explained anyway.
"Most of the Water Demons from these regions have little impression of Great Zhen. To them, it is merely a mortal kingdom. But after this, their impression of Great Zhen will be this ship. Among the kingdoms of the mortal realm today, Great Zhen may still find it difficult to spread its name far and wide. Yet amid the grand momentum of the world, Great Zhen's name will surely occupy the upper reaches."
"Is this reputation so important?"
Ji Yuan watched the approaching light and spoke softly.
"It is very important, and very meaningful. Times are no longer what they once were. Humanity must ultimately stand up. Ruoli's Dragon Transformation Banquet is a rare opportunity."
As Ji