A few hours later, the disciple led Adam up the mountains. They were headed to the mid-mountain terraces, where the sect's Elders' residences were located.

Along the way, Adam noticed many Elders and even some Mana Liquefaction-level disciples walking the same way as him. All of them were dressed in lavish clothes and had jubilant looks on their faces.

Well, it was understandable. The Sword Dragon was hosting a tea gathering, where the most powerful and influential of the Baihua Sect were invited. Going to this event hosted by Bai Xun meant that one was of a certain status.

At this grand event, the Magi would drink fine tea, discuss the arcane mysteries, philosophy, and sect affairs. For the younger Magi who were at the Mana Liquefaction Rank, this was a very valuable opportunity, not just to socialize and meet important people but also to learn.

As Adam ascended the mountain, many curious eyes fell on him. And once they saw him, they could not avert their gaze.

Adam's attire consisted of traditional Yen-Lu-style robes. The inner robe was dark grey with a faint texture, crossed at the chest, and fastened by a wide belt adorned with an ornate plaque and hanging tassels.

The outer robe was long, black, and flowing, with wide sleeves and subtle embroidered patterns of gold along the shoulders and edges. His overall look was dignified and somber, giving an impression of authority and restraint.

But it was the plain white mask that ignited people's curiosity. It evoked a feeling of mystery that they just couldn't get over. Some thought that Adam was a hidden master, while others simply believed he was trying too hard to draw attention.

Of course, Adam did not care about their opinions. The mask and robes were gifted to him by Bai Xun, and he was quite happy with them.

The Mana Liquefaction-level disciple tasked with escorting him patiently explained the etiquette one had to follow during a tea gathering.

Of course, Adam completely ignored him. He couldn't care less about how to behave. He was a blind man pretending to be a mute. He was pretty sure he could get away with most things. Instead, he was pondering the more important questions.

I wonder if there will be sake. Do these people know how to ferment wine? No, more importantly, is there a chance that there will be meat? Damn ascetics! How can they live without meat and wine?

The Baihua Sect forbade the consumption of wine and meat. Of course, this was only within the compounds of the sect. If the disciples wished, they could go to Jingyun City and eat and drink as they liked. Still, such things were frowned upon.

At last, they arrived at the entrance of Bai Xun's two-story manor. It was a simple building that featured its own personal courtyard, plum blossom trees, and a miniature pond.

A crowd of Magi, wearing simple yet lavish clothes, had gathered at the gate. There, disciples working under Bai Xun warmly greeted everyone and guided them inside.

"Instructor Ao, this won't take too long. I shall guide you to Elder Xun soon after—"

The disciple was happily explaining to Adam, when halfway through his sentence, he realized that Adam had disappeared.

"Instructor Ao! Instructor Ao!" The disciple frantically searched for Adam. Of course, it was futile.

***

The youth's figure blurred into existence, and he appeared inside the courtyard located behind the manor. Hands calmly clasped behind his back, his feet gently touched the grass.

Wait in line? Are you crazy? Who has time for such things?

Adam scoffed.

He looked around and saw that the courtyard was fairly occupied by guests. Most of them were disciples or Elders of the sect, while a select few were outsiders. Adam figured that these outsiders were either related to the disciples or were in business with the sect itself.

What should I do now?

Adam suddenly found himself spacing out. He couldn't talk, so he naturally couldn't socialize with others. Anyway, he didn't like socializing to begin with.

I guess I'll find something to eat and sit in a corner or something…

He quickly found the section in the courtyard where food was being served. Unfortunately, there was no meat—not even eggs.

Worse yet, there was no alcohol!

Dragonshit! Adam cursed inwardly.

Making his way through the crowd, he put some food on his plate and walked towards the small pond. Many people glanced at him curiously, wondering who he was. After all, no one at the gathering was wearing a mask, and they most certainly didn't need a reason to.

Ignoring their gazes, Adam arrived at the edge of the pond. He would have loved to sit inside the gazebo, but unfortunately, it was occupied by a group of pretty ladies.

So, he ended up sitting on a boulder, facing the pond.

Gazing at the koi fish swimming aimlessly inside the pond, he couldn't help but wonder:

What am I even doing here? Why did I come to this gathering? I should be well on my way to the Dark Valley. Have I lost sight of my objective?

Suddenly, he lost his appetite. He placed the plate of food on the ground beside him, then sighed deeply.

What the hell am I doing? Just because Elder Zhen Ren asked me to teach a few tricks to the disciples at the sect, I readily agreed?

I feel so… lost.

The truth was, things had been far too calm and peaceful for Adam, and this irritated him deeply.

For the last couple of years, he was always in a state of danger. It was either kill or be killed. But now, all of a sudden, the dangers had subsided so abruptly that he found it utterly strange.

A ridiculous thought emerged in his mind.

Should I… return to Mabi?

No…

What is wrong with me?

His shoulders slouched ever so slightly as he was lost deep in thought.

He heard the sound of footsteps approaching him, but he couldn't be bothered about it.

Elder Xu Zhen Ren stood beside him. Seeing that the youth hadn't reacted to his arrival, he asked with a gentle smile:

"Brother Ao, is something on your mind?"

Adam bent over, then carved a word on the ground:

"Lost."

Elder Zhen Ren's brows arched in surprise, not quite having expected that answer. He stroked his beard and chuckled.

His following answer surprised even Adam.

"Then be lost!"

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