He was warm and enthusiastic. Within the Xuanjia Sect, Du Lingchuan held Chen Qing in high regard, and he was happy to befriend this rising star of the Wutai Sect.
"Brother Shi, you flatter me. Elder Du is too kind, and I am unworthy of such praise."
Chen Qing cupped his fist in return, his demeanor neither servile nor arrogant.
Li Wang also greeted everyone in turn.
Fang Rui, however, stared openly at Chen Qing, his eyes filled with intense curiosity and a barely perceptible hint of rivalry.
A spot among Yunlin Prefecture's Seven Talents had become vacant for various reasons. Lately, rumors had been swirling that Chen Qing, chief disciple of the Wutai Sect's Cyan Wood Institute, would be the one to fill it. As one of the top rising stars of the Xuanjia Sect, it was only natural for Fang Rui to feel competitive.
Meanwhile, Chang Xing's gaze, even more subtle, lingered on Chen Qing.
