The gates of Liuye City rose before us, tall and imposing beneath the pale morning sky. By the time we arrived, there was only a single day left before the Dark Path Coalition Congregation officially began.
The entire city pulsed with restless energy.
The streets were flooded with cultivators from every corner of the Xianru Empire—and beyond. Banners of various sects fluttered above their processions, while merchants lined both sides of the crowded streets, hawking wares specifically tailored for wandering cultivators. Stalls selling rare herbs, spirit tools, and talismans were packed tightly together, their owners shouting to attract the attention of the endless stream of travelers. The air was thick with the scent of incense, roasting meats, and freshly ground medicines.
Inns overflowed with guests; teahouses spilled lively conversations out onto their porches—most of it revolving around the impending congregation. Everywhere I looked, cultivators clustered in small groups, exchanging information, boasting of their sect's reputation, or speculating about the coming discussions.
As we wove our way through the throng toward the market to gather supplies, Xiao Delun and Li Yao chattered eagerly beside me, their voices nearly drowned out by the commotion around us.
"Have you heard?" Xiao Delun said, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Sect Leader Ruan has invited all the minor sect leaders from Xianru to stay at his estate. The accommodations are free — and from what I've heard, the place is absolutely magnificent! And it's not just the sect leaders. He's even extended the invitation to traveling merchants. Merchants, Luo Fan! People like us!"
Li Yao nodded, equally animated. "It's true. I heard several caravans have already arrived at his estate. They say the accommodations are grand, and the food—beyond anything you'll find in the city."
I could understand their enthusiasm. For wandering merchants like them, being personally invited to stay in the estate of one of the most powerful sect leaders on the continent was both rare and bewildering. Recognition from someone like Ruan Yanjun could open doors to connections, trade routes, and protection many merchants could only dream of.
But for me, the offer felt entirely different.
"I'm not going," I said quietly, my voice cutting through their chatter like a blade.
Both of them froze mid-step, exchanging surprised glances before turning their questioning eyes to me.
"Why not?" Xiao Delun asked, his brows knitting together.
I averted my gaze, unwilling to meet their eyes. "I don't believe I would be welcome there," I answered. "Besides… my master might also be there."
The mere thought of facing the Dark Wind Master again after slipping away from him at the docks made my stomach twist. His constant taunts, his endless demands—they exhausted me. And to step directly into Ruan Yanjun's domain, while still trying to keep our complicated history at bay, was more than I could manage.
Yes, I had made him a promise—to properly present myself before the Dark Wind Master when I was ready. But not yet.
"You're being too harsh on yourself, Luo Fan," Xiao Delun said softly after a pause. "Sect Leader Ruan invited everyone. That includes you. You've more than earned your place."
Li Yao added gently, "Think of the connections you might make. This congregation doesn't happen often. You shouldn't close the door on a rare chance like this."
Their words were reasonable. But my mind was set. "I appreciate your concern, but I've made my decision. I'll stay at an inn. You two should still go. You don't need to turn down this opportunity on my account."
For a brief moment, they exchanged glances, as if silently debating whether to push the matter further. Then Xiao Delun sighed and smiled. "If that's your decision, then we'll follow it."
I blinked, momentarily caught off guard. "You don't have to. Truly. You shouldn't waste this chance."
Li Yao gave a small laugh, his expression warm. "Don't be foolish. We started this journey together. We should all stick together."
Xiao Delun nodded, his usual lighthearted grin returning. "Besides, if we left you alone, who'd keep you out of trouble?"
Their loyalty struck something deep within me. In this world of endless politics, betrayal, and shifting loyalties, such sincerity was a rare comfort. I found myself smiling faintly, grateful for the friendship they so freely offered.
"Alright," I said softly. "Let's find an inn."
After Xiao Delun finished gathering what he needed from the market, we continued deeper into the city.
Soon, the imposing gates of Ruan Yanjun's estate came into view, rising in the distance like a fortress of polished stone and silent authority. Towering walls encircled the compound, their dark tiles gleaming under the afternoon sun. Graceful watchtowers punctuated the perimeter, their elegant roofs curving skyward like the wings of a slumbering beast. Every detail radiated power, discipline, and the unspoken reminder of who ruled here.
This estate had once been sealed off by order of Emperor An. But with the fall of Fuhai City and the collapse of Wun's imperial court, Ruan Yanjun had moved swiftly. The estate that was once stolen from him had been reclaimed—without resistance, without negotiation. No emperor remained to oppose him. No decree held authority anymore. What was once taken had returned to its rightful master.
Now, its gates stood wide once more, not in shame or secrecy, but in silent triumph.
For a brief moment, as I gazed at the grand gates, I felt a flicker of regret. What would it have been like to walk through those doors as a guest? To stand among the other sect leaders, to be seen, acknowledged, included?
But the moment passed, chased away by the familiar weight of caution pressing against my chest. I had made my choice—and for now, it was better to remain outside those walls.