Afterwards, the Sword Discussion Conference continued, and disciples from other sects began their contests.
Elder Feng, however, seemed somewhat distracted.
And because of Mo Hua and Feng Zichen's miraculous movement techniques earlier, the subsequent matches seemed rather dull.
Great Elder Zhang also watched indifferently.
During this dull, tasteless "garbage" time, only Zhang Lan stood upright like a clay sculpture, yet his heart was like a burning fire, with every minute and second feeling like a year.
Not knowing how long he endured, Zhang Lan became numb from waiting, and finally, the sword discussions for the day ended.
The audience around began dispersing.
It was at this moment that Great Elder Zhang suddenly turned around, giving Zhang Lan a deep look.
Zhang Lan trembled all over, almost losing his soul.
"Return to the residence..." Great Elder Zhang said.
Zhang Lan froze for a while before holding his breath and nodding, "Yes, Chief Elder."
His heart was restless, his tone somewhat unstable.
Great Elder Zhang found it peculiar but didn't suspect him, instead assuming that Zhang Lan, having seen the Qianxue Debate, was overwhelmed and impacted by witnessing the clash of so many top talents.
Great Elder Zhang wasn't angry, rather relieved.
There's always someone better and a higher sky.
This saying applies to everyone.
Sometimes, without stepping out to see, one wouldn't know how vast the world is and how many talents there are.
Staying confined and complacent is without a future.
Once you overcome this mental barrier, acknowledging others' uniqueness and realizing your own shortcomings, without arrogance or impatience, dedicating oneself to cultivation, only then can your path be longer and further.
Fang Tian Painting faded to pure white, the image disappearing.
Everyone stood, leaving Mount of Tao in an orderly manner.
Zhang Lan mixed into the crowd, walking down Mount of Tao.
His legs were slightly stiff, still harboring lingering apprehension.
Thankfully, the Chief Elder didn't suspect anything, which was a stroke of luck amidst misfortune.
Zhang Lan truly breathed a sigh of relief.
A moment later, he glanced back at the empty Fang Tian Painting, his mind involuntarily recalling Mo Hua's confrontation with the feng family's top prodigy, integrating body and water, passing through thousands of sword edges without a single cut touching his body, filling his chest with awe.
He still found it hard to believe.
The little brat he encountered in the remote regions of the Big Black Mountain State boundary in Qian State, after ten years of no contact, had now soared to become a leader among the myriad sects in the Fifth grade Qianxue State Boundary.
Capable of stirring clouds and rain at the Sword Discussion Conference, facing off against renowned talents from various sects without falling behind as a "child of heaven".
Even though countless cultivators loathed him, none could do anything about him...
"Mo Hua..."
This familiar name suddenly felt very unfamiliar.
Zhang Lan was dazed for a long time, seemingly in a dream.
Upon returning to the feng family, Great Elder Zhang instructed the Zhang family members:
"Elder Feng and I have some important matters to discuss. You may act on your own, sightseeing and making friends as you wish."
"But Foundation Establishment Disciples must have Core Formation
companions."
"Moreover, this is the Fifth grade Qianxue State Boundary, with aristocratic families everywhere and talents like clouds, unlike our Zhang family's Canglan
State boundary."
"In your actions, be sure to be cautious, treat others kindly, and avoid causing any trouble."
"You must return before 22 p.m., or face family discipline."
All the disciples bowed: "Yes, Chief Elder."
"Hmm." The Chief Elder nodded, brushing his sleeve before leaving.
The Zhang family disciples all breathed a sigh of relief.
The atmosphere became lively.
The Zhang family disciples discussed where to play or visit some relatives and
friends, some even calling Zhang Lan.
Zhang Lan, though lazy by nature, was easy-going and well-loved by the clan.
Moreover, he was at the Golden Core stage.
Zhang Lan pondered for a moment and then decided to join them.