The atmosphere was tense. Conversations happened in low voices. Cultivators sized each other up with careful eyes. Alliances were being formed and broken through quiet negotiation. Some groups looked united and strong. Others remained isolated, trusting no one.
Arthur moved toward an empty section of the hall. His footsteps echoed on the marble floor. Each step rang out clearly in the cavernous space.
His presence drew immediate attention. The effect was instantaneous and dramatic. Conversations died mid-sentence. Words trailed off into silence. Heads turned in unison. Hundreds of eyes locked onto him simultaneously. Everyone knew who he was. Everyone knew what he represented.
First place on the Rising Dragon Rankings. The genius who had vanished for months. The one who had declared himself the Mortal Emperor returned. The person whose very existence challenged the established order.
