Chen Ye’s eyes moved, secretly suspicious.
In theory, since arrangements have been made for a privileged treatment, why bother to promote in front of him?
From this, it seems Steward Li might be emphasizing the Sect Master’s favor.
If it were other guardians, they would surely be flattered by such ups and downs, feeling deeply grateful to the Sect Master...
However, guardian-level figures do indeed come into the view of major figures within the sect and will more or less be courted.
Of course, under normal circumstances, no amount of courting would lead to such generous treatment.
Chen Ye’s heart was as clear as a mirror, but his face appropriately showed gratitude:
"Since it is the Sect Master’s great favor, Chen is deeply grateful. Please, Steward Li, convey my sentiments; I will serve the sect diligently and live up to the Sect Master’s expectations."
"Well said, well said! With Guardian Chen’s dedication, the Sect Master will surely be pleased!"
Seeing this, Steward Li’s smile became more sincere.
In his view, this Guardian Chen surely has boundless prospects!
Recently established a foundation, and saved True Inheritor Bai... truly, luck is on his side.
"By the way, Guardian Chen," Li changed the topic, "would you please provide the names of your three disciples, so I can register them in the sect records?"
"Thank you."
Chen Ye instructed his three disciples to step forward and register their identities one by one.
"..."
The two disciples couldn’t help but feel despondent.
Now, the matter of Lin Jin becoming their master’s disciple is irreparable.
Actually, they find it very hard to accept.
The master was supposed to only have two disciples, who had always been by his side, sharing all joys and sorrows, devoting their everything.
But why...
Now, out of nowhere, a strange girl arrives to compete for their master?
Just thinking about it made their hearts feel heavy.
It’s not just jealousy; more so... it’s incomprehension.
After completing the formalities, Steward Li courteously saw Chen Ye and his group out of the Ministry Hall.
"Safe travels, Guardian Chen!"
Chen Ye nodded, leading his once lively disciples towards Herb Peak.
Nothing was said along the way.
The excitement when returning to the sect had vanished without a trace from the little girl.
Chen Ye walked at the front, feeling complicated emotions.
This matter impacted his disciples more than he had anticipated.
But once a decision is made, there’s no turning back.
He couldn’t go back on his word...
Chen Ye hoped that time would soothe their inner grievances.
...
As soon as they stepped into the Herb Peak area, the familiar scent of herbs greeted them.
Looking around, countless exotic flowers and rare herbs swayed gracefully.
Disciples wearing Outer Sect attire carefully traversed the fields, whether practicing the Cloud Rain Technique or weeding and catching pests, it was bustling.
Among these disciples, some recognized Chen Ye.
"Isn’t that Steward Chen of Luoli Courtyard?"
"It really is him! Wasn’t he said to have been punished by the sect and entered Songyang Cave Heaven..."
"Heh, your information must be outdated. A while ago, Steward Chen saved True Inheritor Bai in Songyang Cave Heaven and successfully established a foundation — he’s now Guardian Chen!"
Instantly, countless gazes turned towards him.
These gazes were laced with jealousy, admiration, and respect...
Calmly, Chen Ye cupped his hands towards the disciples: "Fellow Daoists, it’s been a while!"
His greeting startled the disciples who were whispering.
After realizing, they hurriedly placed down their tasks and respectfully bowed:
"Greetings, Guardian Chen!"
Lin Qiongyu followed behind Chen Ye, looking at the spectacular scene of nearly a hundred sect disciples bowing in unison, stunned.
Anyone here, in the Peach Mountain District, would be a high and mighty sect disciple, someone she once looked up to.
Yet now, these people trembled and bowed just because of a call from their master, not daring to even lift their heads.
Suddenly, she felt that being a sect disciple wasn’t all that impressive.
Just like this.
Lin Qiongyu felt a strange sensation arise within her.
Unconsciously, she straightened her back, lifted her previously lowered eyes, and looked at the disciples with a hint of newfound superiority.
After exchanging a few pleasantries with the disciples, Chen Ye led the group away.
Passing through the familiar herb fields and winding a few serene paths, the courtyard surrounded by pear blossom trees finally appeared before them.
"Home at last."
Staring at the courtyard plaque labeled "Luoli Courtyard," Chen Ye felt endless emotion.
He stepped forward and gently pushed open the slightly ajar gate.
"Zheng——!"
A clear sword sound, accompanied by a fierce blade wind, came rushing forward!
Chen Ye felt amused and lightly knocked the sheath, prompting the iron sword to dart out.
"Clang!"
The iron sword charged, the Spirit Sword couldn’t withstand and staggered back.
The person gasped, hurriedly retracting the sword.
She felt rather frustrated: "Uncle Chen! You... knowing it’s me, didn’t hold back even a bit!"
The girl wore crisp and neat attire, highlighting her graceful figure.
Especially her pair of straight and slender jade legs, which made people’s heads spin.
Chen Ye estimated that her legs alone were taller than Qing Jun!
She was strikingly beautiful, with bright eyes and pearly teeth, delicate features, wielding a long sword — indeed, it was Li Qiuyun!
"Gulp!"
The young girl let out a mournful cry.
Master, why look at her first, then look back at Sister Qiuyun’s legs?
What does Master mean!
Master is an utter scoundrel!
Listening to the girl’s playful complaint, Chen Ye couldn’t help but laugh heartily:
"If I didn’t exert some force, wouldn’t you tear down the courtyard? Besides, your probing was far from lenient."