Within the Baijian Heights, in the serene courtyard of Splendid City, lay the chamber of Dugu Wudao.
"Ming'er, you must ponder this thoroughly. Presently, you stand only at the eighth rank of cultivation. If you expend her now, at best, you may attain the ninth rank, but the gains will be outweighed by the losses," cautioned Dugu Wudao, his voice a chill breeze in the room, his hands clasped on his arms as he gazed fixedly at Dugu Ming before him.
Dugu Ming, respectful, bowed deeply, his voice solemn as he replied, "Uncle, if I do not ascend to the ninth rank, I fear I shall be unable to contend with Ling Yun."
"And why is that? Do you believe you can handle Ao Zheng of the Baijian Heights and that lad from the Blue Hall Sect?" queried Dugu Wudao, his interest piqued as he regarded Dugu Ming.