Chapter 143

Chapter 143: The Grand Gathering of Immortal Sects

You You had imagined the Immortal Sect Competition would resemble something like the Olympics of the Immortal Realm, with many participating sects. But the sheer number astonished her. The skies above Ming Xin Sect overflowed with flying boats from various sects, inching forward at glacial speeds. Though earlier arrivals swiftly stored their vessels, the procession crawled along – they were stuck in a traffic jam… no, a flying boat jam.

This was You You’s first glimpse of so many sect vessels. Most boats flaunted extravagant designs to display their sect’s prestige, some shimmering with unnatural radiance. Names of prominent sects adorned these crafts, while modest ones like theirs belonged to minor factions.

After half an hour of waiting, they finally landed in Ming Xin Sect’s central plaza. At the main peak, greeting disciples stood in formation. A Nascent Soul cultivator at the forefront hurried over as they disembarked.

"Welcome, Noble Lady!" The cultivator bowed. "Might this humble one inquire which sect you represent?"

"Zhen Yan Sect," You You stated.

"Ah, the Sect Master of Zhen Yan Sect!" Though clearly unfamiliar with her sect, the cultivator maintained flawless professionalism, his smile never wavering. "Your quarters have been prepared. Please rest tonight – the competition begins tomorrow."

"Appreciated." You You nodded.

The cultivator turned to her entourage. "Competing disciples shall proceed to Qian Tian Peak for lodging." He gestured, and junior disciples stepped forward as guides.

After brief pleasantries, the cultivator turned to greet the next group.

You You moved along promptly, following two guides toward a teleportation array. Though separating from Shui Yan’s group felt odd, she accepted Ming Xin Sect’s arrangements. She entered one array with Feng Rong while Shui Yan led disciples to another.

The world blurred momentarily. When the glow faded, they stood on an opulent floating peak blanketed in blossoms, surrounded by elegant pavilions. Small clusters of cultivators dotted the area – mostly women with a handful of men, all at Nascent Soul or God Transformation Stages. These were early-arriving celestial maidens and their Followers.

Heads turned as they materialized. Most glances slid away after noting strangers, though many eyes lingered on Feng Rong’s striking features.

"You You!"

The cry came as she stepped forward. A projectile of silk and enthusiasm slammed into her, nearly knocking her over.

"Wu Yue!" You You steadied herself, peeling the human limpet off her robes. Of course the Xuan Guang Sect leader would attend.

"I missed you sooo much!" Wu Yue nuzzled her cheek like an overaffectionate kitten.

Feng Rong’s hand shot between them. He peeled Wu Yue off with the delicacy of someone handling toxic sludge, tucking You You behind himself.

"Lady Wu." His smile could frost sunlight. "How… uplifting to see your domestic affairs resolved."

Wu Yue blinked, then lit up at recognizing him. Her momentary delight curdled as realization struck. She gaped at You You. "Another Follower? So soon? We parted months ago!" Her devastated expression suggested catching a spouse mid-affair.

You You’s eye twitched. "He’s not–" She paused. Hadn’t she promised Feng Rong a contract after his recovery? "Actually… yes."

Wu Yue’s face crumpled. Feng Rong’s smirk bloomed like a victory banner, his side-eye to Wu Yue dripping triumph.

"Sect Master," a calm voice interjected. Long Xi emerged behind Wu Yue, bowing to You You. "Lady You You. Our sect remains indebted for your past aid."

"You’re too kind," You You deflected. "Wu Yue did the real work."

"Lies!" Wu Yue latched onto You You’s arm. "Come! We’ll gossip in my room!"

Feng Rong’s hand clamped over Wu Yue’s wrist. "My Lady requires rest." His tone sweetened to poisoned honey. "Alone. In her own quarters."

"Rooms here are identical!" Wu Yue protested.

"You snore."

"I do not!"

"Loudly."

"You–"

You You: "…"

Long Xi: "…"