Hua Xinfeng returned about an hour later, a hint of delight on her face. “Young Lord, it seems we arrived at just the right time. Tonight, the curtains open on a grand banquet at the Celestial Waters Mountain Villa three miles outside the city.

“The host is the second elder of Secluded Dragon Mountain, Qin Dongxu. He’s invited prominent figures of Shanglin Temple, the Profound Moon Temple, and the Donghua Sword Sect.

“Them aside, there are powerful experts from the Great Qin’s six sword manors and various pre-eminent experts of their respective regions.”

As she spoke, she flipped her hand, revealing a gold-embossed invitation. She said smugly, “And I? I got my hands on an invitation.”

“Are you going to the banquet?” Su Yi arched his brow. 

“I’m not going,” she said. “We’re going. They say that Qin Dongxu is going to reveal secrets regarding the ruins of the Immortals’ Sword House and make an important announcement.”

She paused, then laughed. “Of course, more importantly, we can seize this opportunity to get a good look at our competition. That way, when we reach the Sea of Chaotic Spirits and harvest trophies, we’ll be prepared.”

Su Yi thought it over, then said, “That works too.”

After...