It was just talk; if he were actually put to the test, he wouldn't know how to do anything.
The gaunt elder returned the calculating tools, expressing his gratitude:
"I am insufficient in my abilities and have let down everyone's kindness."
An elder with white hair knew the difficulty and danger of the task and showed understanding, saying:
"Brother Wen has worked hard."
The other Cultivators nearby also showed pity and said:
"We are grateful for Senior Wen's effort."
"Senior Wen, you've worked hard."
...
They, too, were just trying their luck; if they couldn't figure it out, it was expected, for there were few Cultivators in this world more skilled in Heavenly Secret Calculation than Mr. Zhuang.
This matter would need further long-term consideration.
Everyone went back to rest.
The gaunt elder also put away his Three Talents Divination Copper Coins.
But as he picked up the coins, he discovered that the edge of one Copper Coin... now had a tiny crack.
The gaunt elder was startled, then reflected quietly.
Suddenly, he was engulfed by immense fear.
He now realized, it wasn't that he had the sense of his own limits.
It was the Copper Coin that had, at a critical moment, blocked a deadly threat, saving his life!
That's why the warning arose!
That's why he thought to retreat, that's how he escaped the calamity!
His had truly been a close call!
The gaunt elder felt weak in his limbs, slumped onto the chair, his heart, which had just calmed down, was again pounding with terror, and his back soaked with cold sweat.
Fear lingered in his eyes.
What exactly lay beneath the fog?
How terrifying was this junior gentleman's fate?
He had only tried to see a corner, no, not even managed to take a look, and was nearly obliterated?!
What exactly resides within his life's destiny…