Chapter 713: The Crimson Blade’s Court
In a single motion, the twenty sect leaders cupped their fists and bowed low. Sweat trickled down their foreheads, snaking along their noses. The faint splashes resounded in their ears, dwarfing the sound of the scraping doors.
An invisible pressure pressed on their shoulders, their own fears shackling their limbs, gripping their throats. Their powers, ranks, and prides became meaningless trinkets in front of the silhouette hovering inside the light.
It wrapped around him in a blinding, deceptively warm halo. But they knew the slightest outburst or provocation would spell their doom.
The deafening thuds of their hearts reverberated against their ribs, spreading into their bones for a moment that seemed to stretch forever.
Before they suffocated, however, the light faded. Cool natural shadows embraced their sweat-drenched backs like benefactors providing refreshments to thirsty travellers. Tian Long’s head even moved slightly, as if thanking them.
"Three days waiting at my doorstep." The man’s voice echoed with a tone as refined as it was ancient—soft yet commanding, warm but cunning. "Twenty sect leaders and as many guardian beasts. I can’t help but wonder what prompted such an unusual group to solicit me."
A ceremonious silence settled on the plain for a few seconds before he nodded. "You may rise to answer."
Instantly, Tian Long sighed in relief, followed by the others. Straightening his back, he locked his gaze with the Dao ancestor’s scarlet eyes.
Long auburn hair framed his youthful face, cascading down a ramrod back. His robes fluttered mid-air, the sober dark exterior contrasting with the intense red inner fabric.