The Sect Leader's interest

The Black Moon Sect's training grounds were still buzzing with whispers after Ron's shocking victory.

No one could believe it—a new disciple had defeated a 7th Qi Gathering Realm opponent with a single slash.

And now, the Sect Leader himself stood before Ron, his sharp eyes filled with intrigue.

The Sect Leader's Question

"Boy," the Sect Leader's voice was calm yet heavy, filled with authority. "What sword technique did you use just now?"

Ron met his gaze without flinching. "Just a casual swing."

The crowd gasped.

"He's still acting arrogant in front of the Sect Leader?!"

"Is he trying to get himself killed?"

But the Sect Leader only narrowed his eyes. (He's not lying. That wasn't even his full power… terrifying.)

After a moment of silence, the Sect Leader smirked. "Interesting."

Then, he turned to the elders behind him. "Prepare a residence for him in the inner sect."

The disciples were stunned.

"Inner sect?! But he's just a new recruit!"

"He skipped all ranks?!"

Ron raised an eyebrow. (Hmph, at least they're not completely blind.)

The Sect Leader's next words were even more surprising. "Ron, follow me."

Without hesitation, he turned and walked toward the main hall.

Ron smirked slightly. (Looks like I've caught their attention.) He followed without another word.

Enemies in the Shadows

As Ron left, a group of disciples in the crowd clenched their fists in anger.

One of them, a young man in luxurious robes, sneered. "He dares to act arrogant? We'll see how long that lasts."

Another disciple whispered, "Senior Brother Liu won't be happy about this. He wanted the Sect Leader's attention, but now all eyes are on Ron."

Liu Tian, the top inner disciple, had been undefeated for years. And now, a new disciple was stealing his spotlight?

Trouble was coming.

Inside the Sect Leader's Hall

Ron entered a grand hall, decorated with ancient scrolls and glowing lanterns. The Sect Leader sat down on a throne-like chair, his eyes filled with curiosity.

"Tell me, Ron," he said, "where did you learn your swordsmanship?"

Ron simply replied, "I figured it out myself."

The elders nearby almost choked.

"Impossible!"

"Even peak sword cultivators take years to reach this level!"

The Sect Leader, however, only chuckled. "Self-taught, huh? I like that."

Then, his expression turned serious. "Are you interested in becoming my direct disciple?"

Ron leaned back slightly, his eyes calm. (Direct disciple? That would give me access to better resources, but I don't need their techniques… my bloodline will guide me.)

After a moment, he smirked. "I'll think about it."

The elders were speechless.

"Think about it?! That's the Sect Leader's personal guidance!"

"This kid is insane!"

The Sect Leader, instead of being angry, only laughed. "Good. I like your attitude."

But just as Ron was about to leave—

BOOM!

A powerful presence descended outside the hall.

A voice filled with killing intent echoed through the air—

"Ron, get out here! I want to see if you're really that strong!"

Ron's expression didn't change. Instead, he smirked.

"Looks like someone's eager to die."

The battle was about to begin.

To be continued in chapter 6....

PROGRESS

Cultivation: Qi Refining stage 2

Swordmanship: Peak Sword user