25. I'm really cool.

…..

On the streambank, 20 people stood in a line, bowing their heads in unison.

"Greetings, Manor Lord!"

Noah calmly chanted inwardly. System, what image are they seeing right now?

System: The Manor Lord's image must always be majestic. They see you fully clothed by the stream, surrounded by an aura of dominance, unrivaled across the eight wastelands. Whatever you do, your image adjusts accordingly. Please enjoy with confidence.

Taking a deep breath, the crisp air filled his chest. With a gentle smile, he spoke.

"Why aren't you resting in your rooms? Why bring the whole group out here?"

Su Qing stepped forward, bowing.

"Manor Lord, we juniors are struggling to gain the token's recognition. We were seeking Steward Zhao for guidance."

Noah paused.

"You just need to stay calm, keep your mind clear and free of burdens. Didn't Steward Zhao explain this?"

Su Qing faltered, Is my heart truly not at peace? but responded.

"Yes, Steward Zhao did explain, but we were too dull to understand. We boldly sought you tonight."

Noah eyed the group. Chosen by the Heavenly Dao, they aren't under my control per the agreement. But helping them gain the token's recognition is the right thing to do.

"Fine, since we've met here, I'll assist you one by one."

Su Qing beamed at the Manor Lord's offer to personally guide them. Perfect, a chance to resolve our doubts with his help.

"Thank you, Manor Lord!"

Noah waved generously.

"No matter. As Manor Lord, aiding you is my duty. Alright, old man, you first."

Su Qing, startled by being called "old man," glanced at the warm, forgiving smile before him. His heart calmed. It's fine, he can call me anything. Stepping forward, he reverently raised the token and shouted the slogan.

"The manor is eternal, long live the Manor Lord, activate the token!"

Nothing happened.

Noah watched, sensing something off. This feels like a cult ritual. But with so many eyes on him, he couldn't correct it now.

System: Su Qing is currently…

"Old man, you're not being true to yourself. It's as if you're hiding behind a false persona. Be honest with your heart, and it will work."

Su Qing was stunned. Hiding behind a false persona? Impossible!

Seeing the elder lost in thought, Noah waved.

"Go back and reflect. Next."

Wu Dingxi stepped forward.

"Manor Lord, please guide me."

The ritual of raising the token and chanting repeated.

This is definitely a heretical act.

"Your mind is too frail, afraid to face reality. Be brave, and it will work."

Wu Dingxi's face showed disbelief. Me, cowardly? He bowed, pondering.

To prevent such bizarre, superstitious acts from becoming daily manor routine, Noah spoke sternly.

"This ritual is only for formal occasions. Normally, just hold the token and meditate silently. Next."

"This uncle, your mind is clouded, like fog. Clear it and let go of obsessions."

"You, and you too, stop overthinking nonsense."

"Little sister, you're too dependent. Develop your own thoughts."

"And you as well."

"Young lady, no need to hide. Express yourself freely."

Luna Fiona listened, glancing at the mysterious Manor Lord. He's right. He's immensely powerful and enigmatic, seeing through my secrets as expected. Hiding is pointless, and his indifference might be my chance.

"Thank you, Manor Lord, for your guidance."

Her beauty wasn't as captivating as Lalatina Celeste's, but she exuded a serene, untarnished aura. Yet, deep in her eyes burned ambition and steely resolve. A truly formidable woman.

Suddenly, Luna Fiona's body glowed. She floated, moonlight streaming over her like a river, sparkling motes swirling rhythmically. As the light faded, a silver bracelet with glowing moon patterns appeared in her hand.

Silence fell. Noah was silent too. Is entering the system space this dramatic?

System: Indeed, entering the Celestial Reunion state renders one inviolable.

The group stared at Luna Fiona, or rather, the silver bracelet. Her childlike, delighted eyes fixed on Noah.

"No need to be so excited. It's a welcome gift to the manor. Take it. You're now an official member. If you have questions, consult the token."

Noah straightened, his voice firm, addressing the group.

"Anyone can achieve this. Work hard. Your doubts are resolved. If there's nothing else, return to your rooms and rest. Staying up late isn't good."

"Oh, little sister, what's your name?"

Being addressed by this mysterious, powerful figure, Luna Fiona felt a mix of awe and joy. No, only strength matters.

"This humble girl is Luna Fiona."

Her expression was natural, unafraid, unlike the others. Truly protagonist material.

"Good. If you face difficulties, come to me directly. No need to hesitate."

With that, Noah turned and walked away confidently. Inwardly, he was elated. I'm so cool, totally nailing this. But these people aren't mine. Time to grow my faction and recruit members.