Chapter 98: The Sect’s Choice
A hush fell over the floating palace as Chen Yu and his companions stepped across the radiant bridge of light, emerging from the aftermath of the Astral Beast Gauntlet. Golden mist drifted from the shattered islands behind them, mingling with starlight that poured from the heavens like molten silver.
Thousands of disciples crowded the floating platforms surrounding the palace, their hushed whispers filling the air with awe and speculation. Holographic illusions replayed the final moments of Chen Yu’s team’s battle with the starlight titan, each move projected in shimmering detail for all to see.
Within the great floating hall at the heart of the Celestial Sky Sect, elders sat on thrones of jade, crystal, and obsidian, suspended above a circular dais of white marble. At the dais’s center, the victorious team stood—bloodied, breathing heavily, but unbowed. Their eyes gleamed with the confidence of those who had earned their place.
The first to rise was Elder Longwu of the Solar Flame Pavilion. Flames wreathed his massive frame, crackling and flaring with every word he spoke. "Ascenders, your unity and might have shaken this sect to its foundations. Never in centuries has a team from three races—human, demon, and beast—worked so seamlessly in the Astral Gauntlet."
Elder Xuehua of the Frozen Cloud Sect floated from her throne, descending gracefully like a snowflake. Frost blossomed where her feet touched the marble, forming intricate patterns. "You are all exceptional," she said, her voice soft but sharp as winter winds. "You are worth any price. I extend the hand of the Frozen Cloud Sect: join us, and the power of the north will be yours."
Elder Mingtian’s thunderous laughter rolled through the hall like a storm. "Hah! Ice and caution will never bring out their potential!" Lightning snapped across his golden armor as he slammed his fist against the air, the shockwave sending a tremor through the hall. "Thunder God Hall will forge you into legends."
Other elders followed: Elder Shi of the Violet Mist Hall offered them rare alchemical secrets; Elder Yuan of the Celestial Beast Sect promised unrestrained access to ancient beast arts; Elder Lian of the Starfall Palace dangled the knowledge of astral pathways and celestial navigation.
As the offers poured in, the atmosphere grew feverish. Sect elders who usually kept their poise were now competing openly, voices overlapping in a chaotic chorus of promises and bribes. Some offered mountains of spirit stones, others pledged rare artifacts or sacred manuals sealed for millennia.
Chen Yu listened quietly, his expression unreadable. Around him, his companions exchanged glances—some intrigued, others wary. Hui smirked, clearly enjoying the spectacle, while Roman’s eyes narrowed at each new offer. Gu Chaewon remained stoic, though her aura betrayed flickers of tension. Vornark’s tail swayed with restless curiosity, and Ling Ling watched the elders with eyes like empty night.
Azrael, arms crossed and face hidden in shadows, radiated silent threat—each elder’s eyes flicking to him before quickly looking away.
A Voice of Reason