'Gift' From The Zhou Clan

While the audience in the Xianling Martial Arena buzzed with excitement over the match between Xian Tiandi and Zhou Kang, the two central figures had already left the arena for different destinations.

"Master, you were so amazing back there! I knew Zhou Kang wouldn't even be able to touch a strand of your hair, hehe," Ying Yue giggled, her bright eyes shining as she praised Xian Tiandi.

Despite Xian Tiandi's repeated insistence that she could address him casually when they were alone, she still preferred to call him Young Master.

Xian Tiandi didn't mind. In fact, he found it somewhat amusing. Having a future alchemy powerhouse like Ying Yue refer to him as Young Master carried a certain charm.

"It was nothing, Ying Yue. Don't worry; under my guidance, you'll become powerful too," he assured her with a calm smile.

"Really? Then Ying Yue will look forward to the Young Master's guidance," she replied sweetly, lowering her head shyly.

Xian Tiandi didn't notice the faint blush on her cheeks; his thoughts had already drifted elsewhere.

'I didn't expect to see her so soon in this lifetime.'

The figure he had caught a glimpse of earlier—the maiden in white—was someone he could never forget.

'Bai Xueyao… You sacrificed so much for me in the past, yet I still failed to protect you from your fate.' His gaze hardened, memories of sorrow and regret flooding his mind.

But this time...

'I won't fail you again.'

His thoughts lingered on the events of his past life. Bai Xueyao had been tracking the elusive members of the Moon God Cult during this time and they were yet to encounter each other.

She had spoken of something important she needed to retrieve—something tied to the cult.

'If my memories are accurate, she'll be trailing them around the Red Leaf Kingdom now. I shouldn't interfere. She dealt with them quickly enough before.'

Xian Tiandi clenched his fist, his resolve firm. 'No, there's no need to act hastily. We'll meet again, and this time, it will be much earlier than before. I'll ensure it's better.'

A stray thought surfaced in his mind, making him pause.

'I wonder… Did I leave a good first impression this time?'

Meanwhile, Ying Yue, walking half a step behind him, noticed her Young Master's distraction but chose to remain silent. She admired his thoughtful demeanor, though she was curious about their current destination. They weren't heading toward the Xian Clan mansion.

'Where is the Young Master taking us this morning?' she wondered. Yet, knowing her place, she kept her questions to herself.

Finally, unable to hold back her curiosity any longer, Ying Yue asked cautiously, "Where are we going, Young Master?"

"Huh?" Xian Tiandi blinked, snapping out of his reverie. "Oh, we're going to collect a gift," he replied casually.

"A gift?" Ying Yue tilted her head in confusion but decided not to press further.

---

In a secluded alleyway, a middle-aged man approached them. He was the Zhou Family's Deputy Steward, and he carried himself with a respectful yet reserved air.

"Here you go," the man said, handing Xian Tiandi a storage bag. "The clan head is grateful and has added a few extra items to ensure it doesn't appear as though we're taking advantage of you."

Xian Tiandi accepted the bag with a faint smile. "Thank you. Please extend my regards to the Zhou Family head."

The Deputy Steward bowed slightly before retreating.

Ying Yue watched the exchange with admiration, her mind racing.

'The Young Master is truly wise. He turned a simple match into an opportunity to gain benefits.'

Xian Tiandi's smile would freeze if he heard her thoughts.

With their business concluded, Xian Tiandi and Ying Yue returned to the Xian Clan Residence. Upon their arrival, they were met by Steward Han, who conveyed a message with a polite bow.

"Young Master, the Patriarch has requested to see you."

Xian Tiandi nodded. "Very well. Ying Yue, head back to the courtyard and prepare something for our meal. I'll be leaving with Steward Han."

"Yes, Young Master," Ying Yue replied promptly, her tone respectful. She turned and left, leaving Xian Tiandi with Steward Han.

"Shall we?" Xian Tiandi gestured for the steward to lead the way.

---

Instead of being directed to the Main Hall, Xian Tiandi was taken to the Patriarch's private residence.

This wasn't entirely surprising, given the Patriarch's habit of holding important discussions away from prying eyes.

It had only been two days since Xian Tiandi last saw the Patriarch, during Xian Yu's brief visit before leaving on a mission with her fellow sect disciple.

When Xian Tiandi arrived, a servant opened the door for him, bowing respectfully as he entered.

The room was modestly decorated, with two neatly arranged mats and a low wooden table in the center.

Upon the table sat a kettle and two teacups, both filled with steaming tea. A pleasant aroma wafted through the air.

Green Essence Leaves.

Xian Tiandi recognized the scent immediately.

It was a prized local tea cultivated exclusively in the lush vegetation surrounding Xianling City. Its rarity had led to its monopolization by major clans and merchants, making it a luxury item.

Xian Tiandi stepped forward and greeted the Xian Clan Patriarch, Xian Chen, with cupped fists and a respectful bow.

"Greetings, Father."

Xian Chen, a dignified man with streaks of silver in his hair, looked up from his tea and gave a slight nod.

"Sit, Tiandi," he said, his voice calm yet commanding.

Xian Tiandi took a seat across from his father, observing him quietly.

Though Xian Chen's expression was serene, there was an unmistakable weight in the air, hinting at the importance of this meeting.

The Patriarch took a sip of his tea before speaking. "Your recent match has caused quite a stir. But more than that, I was glad when I learn of your recent awakening."

The Patriarch spoke calmly but Xian Tiandi could sense genuine joy beneath his tone.

"I'm sorry you have to find out like this, Father. I intended to inform you today before that Zhou Kang came along."

Xian Chen nodded, "I don't doubt that. But now that you have awakened and even broke through to the mid-stages of the Qi Refinement Realm so quickly, which by the way is very surprising, I wouldn't ask about your matters except..."

"What do you plan to do next?"