Chapter 157
Now that everyone is raving about how good the Sect’s hospitality is, it’s time for Sect Master Sun to put on the charm.
"Welcome everyone to the ascendancy party for the Divine Elder Song. We’re very glad you could make it, despite the absolute lack of warning. The Tribulation was unexpected, the result of an experiment to repair his damaged cultivation base." The Sect Master starts, laying it on thick.
I share an amused glance with Elder Ming who comes over to stand with me and watch the speech.
"The Shadowed Blade has long been misunderstood. While we welcome a wide variety of techniques and personalities, we’re not a Devil Cultivator Sect, but in fact a neutral Sect with a particular aptitude I’m sure you’re all aware of." Yes, we have a very wide variety of personalities. But there’s a solid argument to be made that we might all be crazy.
"I hope you enjoyed the meal, it was prepared by our very own Young Miss, a Culinary Specialist training here at the Shadowed Blade."
While all those words were true, why did it feel so much like a lie? I giggle at his depiction and wave at all the people now watching me.
He goes on a while about the variety of skills we teach before bringing Elder Song forward to say a few words to the assembled cultivators.
"First, I’ll address the elephant in the room. No, the Shadowed Blade isn’t going to war now that they’ve got an Elder in the Divine Realm. We’re very much hoping you’ll accept us as a Neutral Sect and put aside old misconceptions." Not a bad speech for Elder Song, who dislikes public speaking.
The speeches ended, everyone wants to congratulate Elder Song and get on his good side, so I lean back to watch the show. Quite a few are coming my way too, likely because of the cooking. Elder Han is definitely because of the food, and he’s got his young wife with him now, looking happy and heavily pregnant.