Adam never got to spar with the Sword Phoenix, Bai Ge.

After his sparring match with Bai Xun, the latter had sustained injuries that needed immediate treatment. Although it wasn't life-threatening, it still needed to be looked after as early as possible.

So Bai Ge had accompanied Bai Xun to the infirmary. And that was it. That was the last time Adam had seen her.

There was no resentment or any negative feelings between Adam and the two geniuses of Baihua Sect. In fact, Bai Xun was very happy that he got to spar with him. Furthermore, Bai Ge, too, was looking forward to exchanging pointers with him in the near future.

If there was anything that Adam admired about these people, it was their mentality. Their indomitable will truly impressed him.

He realized why the Baihua Sect had produced a Dragon and a Phoenix in the same generation. It was because of Bai Xun and Bai Ge's nature, as well as the entire sect's support that nurtured them.

Adam spent the next few days touring the sect. The compound was as vast as it was beautiful. He chose not to visit Jingyun City because descending the mountain took half a day. He'd much rather spend his time in the peaceful compound up in the mountains.

The Baihua Sect stretched majestically across the mist-covered mountain range, its many courtyards and halls seamlessly blending with the surrounding nature.

On the lower slopes, neat rows of tiled-roof buildings formed the disciples' quarters, as well as the guests' quarters. These were simple yet elegant, shared courtyards adorned with flowering trees and small stone lanterns.

Paths paved with smooth jade tiles connected the quarters to the training grounds, vast open spaces where disciples practiced their martial arts or channeled mana extraction beneath the watchful eyes of instructors.

A little higher up lay the meditating gardens, peaceful sanctuaries surrounded by bamboo groves and koi ponds. Here, the air was rich with mana, and the gentle sound of rustling leaves accompanied silent contemplation.

The Elders' residences were built along the mid-mountain terraces, each having an individual manor that overlooked the clouds.

These abodes were larger, often featuring their own individual courtyards, plum blossom trees, and miniature waterfalls. Each residence was different, a reflection of the Elder's status and taste.

Flowing streams and cascading waterfalls wove through the entire sect, gathering into serene ponds and ornamental lakes where fish swam. Stone bridges arched across these waters, connecting the paths that led to various pavilions.

At the very heart and highest peak stood the Heavenly Pavilion, the grand residence of the Sect Leader and the Baihua Sect's seat of power.

The eastern part of the mountain range was occupied by training arenas and libraries, while the western cliffs consisted of dining halls, where one could see the distant sprawl of Jingyun City below.

Adam had truly never seen a place of learning so conducive to a Magus's growth. He was very, very impressed. If there was one thing he wanted to complain about, it was that alcohol was not permitted within the sect.

It was a pity, really. With a view so mesmerizing, he truly wished he could sip on sake and enjoy the breathtaking vista.

On this day, the youth walked through an expansive garden of plum blossoms. Hands clasped behind his back, he strolled at a leisurely pace.

Thinking about the difference between the pleasant environment at the Baihua Sect and the life-threatening world of Mabi, he couldn't help but faintly smile.

It feels like they're two different worlds…

He couldn't help but think that. Even now, he would constantly look over his shoulders, prepared for a surprise attack by a diabolical beast. Such an act of precaution was ingrained into his very bones after living alone in Mabi for so long.

If Adam didn't proactively restrain his bestial aura that he had developed while fighting and living among predators of Mabi, he really believed that he would scare almost everyone in the sect. They would think he was an animal in disguise.

It took a lot for him to pretend to be a civilised person in a civilised world. A part of him still believed that he was a predator going on hunts under the twin moons.

But this is nice, he thought.

He raised his head and sensed the leaves rustling. The petals of the plum blossom danced in the wind and cascaded down. He stretched out his hand, and a flower petal gently landed on his finger.

I could get used to this, he thought with a gentle smile.

But no.

I have duties left to meet.

And weary roads beneath my feet…

The sound of distant footsteps echoed in his ears. He turned his head ever so slightly, only to see a Mana Liquefaction-level disciple stride towards him.

The short-statured disciple carried a scroll in his hands. He stopped a few meters away from Adam, then cupped his fists and respectfully bowed.

"Instructor Ao, I am here on behalf of Elder Xun," said the disciple.

"Auhh?"

The disciple's ears perked up.

The Guest Instructor really can't speak! And what's with the mask and the bandages? Is he really blind? Or is he just shy? The youth couldn't help but let his thoughts wander.

"Auhh!" Adam repeated.

"Ah!" The disciple yelped, snapping out of his thoughts. "Apologies!"

He stretched his hands forward and presented the scroll. "This is an invitation from Elder Xun. He is hosting a tea gathering at his manor tonight, and you are cordially invited."

Adam grabbed the scroll, unfurled it, then traced his fingers along the surface.

He really is blind! The disciple thought in awe.

And yet, he has been assigned as a Guest Instructor! He must be crazy strong.

After reading the invitation, Adam turned to the disciple and gave a thumbs-up. "Auhh!"

The disciple bowed. Then, he added, "Elder Xun asked me to give this ring to you as well. He has also instructed me to escort you to his manor once you're ready."

Adam retrieved the ring and spread his senses inside it. He raised an eyebrow in slight surprise.

Fancy, he thought.

"Auhh." He then waved his hand and instructed the disciple to follow him to his quarters.

It seemed that tonight was going to be a long night…

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