Chương 55: Chapter 55: Refusal?
All eyes, including Yun Che's group, turned towards the source of the voice. The surrounding disciples recognized the voice immediately.
"This voice…" one of the disciples widened his eyes.
"Could it be…" his partner seemed to grasp the situation as well.
Suddenly, figures started to materialize on the arena's stage. For the new recruits, these figures were unfamiliar, but for the palace's disciples, they were unmistakable.
The surrounding disciples slowly stood up and shouted, "We greet the palace headmaster."
The arrival of the New Moon Profound Palace administrators was a grand and significant event. As they entered, they commanded attention with their imposing presence and authority. Their dignified robes and confident strides emphasized their roles as leaders within the palace.
Headmaster Qin Wuyou, the highest-ranking among them, led the way. His composed demeanor and wise countenance immediately set the tone for the gathering. Elder Ya Yii, exuding an air of wisdom and grace, followed closely behind, radiating an aura of respect and reverence.
Elder Wu Nie's entrance was marked by his stern expression and an air of entitlement, while Elder Sikong Han's arrival was characterized by his more level-headed and pragmatic approach. Together, they formed a formidable and diverse group of leaders who were prepared to oversee the proceedings within the palace. Their presence alone left an indelible mark on the event, signifying its importance and the weight of their authority.
Yun Che recognized one of them clearly or more likely Elder Sikong Han. He was the old man who had "saved" him this morning. He could guess that one of them was the grandfather of that arrogant brat because the last one was a woman.
"Palace headmaster? System, any trivia on this?" Yun Che asked the system after hearing the commotion around him.
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[Ding...
Name: Qin Wuyou
Rank: The palace headmaster of the New Moon Profound Palace.
Cultivation: Level 56, Earth Profound Realm Sixth Level.
[Description: The headmaster of the New Moon Profound Palace, is a revered and wise leader known for making pivotal decisions and setting the palace's overall direction. His dignified demeanor and strong sense of responsibility make him a respected figure among both disciples and administrators.
Extra Story Points: Qin Wuyou is supposed to buy the original Yun Che some time to escape the palace after he offended the Xiao Clan during the banquet three weeks from now based on the original story.]
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Yun Che nodded, realizing that an influential character had just entered the stage. "Ah, I see. But what is he doing here?"
"New disciples of the New Moon Profound Palace, please wait for a moment," Qin Wuyou addressed the audience after his sudden appearance in the arena.
He continued, "As administrators of the New Moon Profound Palace, we would like to congratulate all of you for successfully passing the New Moon Profound Palace entrance test."
"Some of you may be wondering why we, the administrators, are involved in such a simple matter. We observed from the palace the situation during this test. Some of you have failed, while some of you have passed. We are particularly interested in the new disciples who shattered the palace's record by defeating two instructors on the stage just now."
All eyes suddenly focused on Yun Che's group, who were attempting to leave the arena at the entrance.
Yun Che sighed, "Well, so much for keeping a low profile. Having all eyes on us like this gives me goosebumps."
"Wow, an audience with the headmaster. No one has ever caused them to appear before. You're both really lucky, brother-in-law, sister-in-law," Yuanba said with excitement.
"*Sigh, I wonder what they actually want with us, young master?" Retsu asked Yun Che.
"I think I know, Retsu. Just play along," Yun Che whispered back.
"Can we ask the two to appear on stage?" Elder Sikong Han expressed his wish towards them.
Yun Che sighed, knowing that this old man was considered nice in the trivia. Since he would help him later, it wouldn't hurt to play along as a sign of respect.
Yun Che and Retsu executed a Flash Step, appearing instantly before the administrators. Their swift action shocked the entire audience and the administrators because their speed was astonishing.
"They're this fast? No wonder these two shattered the records. This is getting interesting," Qin Wuyou thought to himself.
Yun Che and Retsu respectfully cupped their hands towards the administrators. Despite their ruthless past in another world, they still knew how to show respect to their elders unless the elders crossed a line.
"Disciple Yun Che greets the headmasters and elders," Yun Che greeted with a formal bow.
"Disciple Retsu greets the headmaster and elders," Retsu added with a respectful bow.
"Good… good… We have two promising talents this year," Qin Wuyou acknowledged with a pleased expression.
"Hmph, compared to my disciple, they're far behind," Elder Wu Nie attempted to bolster his ego by boasting about his disciples.
"Hoo, did your disciple ever beat an instructor back then?" Elder Han taunted him playfully.
"Hmph, while he may not have bested an instructor, his cultivation speed outpaced everyone in this palace. These two are no match for him," Elder Wu Nie bragged, acting as if his disciple was the center of the universe.
"These two defeated instructors with only Peak Nascent Profound Realm cultivation. Your disciple was merely at the elementary level back then. Comparing them is like apples to oranges."
Yun Che chuckled internally, watching the elders' squabble unfold. "Ah, disciples comparing themselves... One boasting, the other defending. It always ends with the boastful one getting taken down a peg. A typical scenario straight out of a novel," he mused.
"You two, can you please act your age? You're always bickering," Supreme Elder Ya Yii interjected, attempting to restore order.
"Hmph, the young don't respect their elders. How time flies," Wu Nie sarcastically retorted to Ya Yii. Among the administrators, Wu Nie was the one who frequently abused his authority as the Supreme Elder of the palace. He harbored disdain for Sikong Han and Ya Yii, who he believed interfered in his palace affairs. However, the headmaster couldn't take action due to Wu Nie's powerful clan backing and high cultivation level. Losing him would be like losing a crucial support pillar for the palace.
"You...." Ya Yii began to counter him but was quickly interrupted.
"Could you three please cease your bickering for once? Even in front of the audience, you three can't see eye to eye. Wu Nie, I respect you due to your clan, but don't push me to use my authority on you," Qin Wuyou interjected impatiently, growing weary of their antics.
"My apologies, disciples, for these immature elders. Let me get straight to the point. We are here for a single purpose. For too long, I've desired to find someone to mentor as my successor. Both of you, on the other hand, have achieved the impossible within this palace and have captured my attention."
"So you're the one who defeated my little brother. Quite impressive since he's a True Profound Realm Master. That musclehead always thinks with his muscles. And you, young lady? You defeated the brains of the palace without breaking a sweat. Remarkable," Elder Ya Yii praised Yun Che and Retsu respectively. Although Yun Che had never met Elder Ya Yii before, her wisdom and grace stood out among the administrators. She carried herself with poise and authority, her aged face telling tales of a life rich in experiences. Her sharp, observant eyes reflected wisdom and a strong sense of justice. Dressed in a regal indigo robe, she exuded authority and vitality, commanding respect with every word she uttered despite her advanced age.
"I knew it..." Yun Che thought to himself, realizing that this elder was the sister of that musclehead. She shared the same lively antics as her brother. He had a pretty good idea of the typical events that would unfold from here.
After scrutinizing Yun Che and Retsu, Qin Wuyou finally arrived at his decision. "This old man wishes to take you as disciples. Both of you have the choice to pick me or one of the other elders as your masters." Qin Wuyou got straight to the point after a brief pause, his gaze locked onto them.
Elder Ya Yii's enthusiasm was evident as she chimed in, "I quite like this girl. She seems suited to cultivate my techniques. Choose me, young lady. After all, you wouldn't want an old man as your master, would you?" She was genuinely excited after seeing Retsu's strength, noting that it was rare for a girl to possess such power.
The audience was filled with envy and jealousy. Most of their achievements in the palace paled in comparison to the dazzling senior brother who was so highly favored by Elder Wu Nie. Yet, these two newcomers had already garnered all the glory the palace could offer on their very first day. It felt like an injustice that these "monsters" were born with such talent.
"So, what do the both of you say?" Qin Wuyou extended a welcoming gesture.
The audience and examiners sighed internally. Was there even a point in asking such a question? If these two agreed, they would skyrocket to greatness instantly. Of course, they were going to say...
"Thank you, but I must decline," Yun Che stated bluntly.
"I will follow my young master. If he declines, then so do I," Retsu politely refused.
The audience erupted into an uproar. They rejected the offer? Were these two even in their right minds? To decline an offer from the headmaster and the elders so casually. Did they possess such arrogance?
The administrators were equally stunned. They hadn't expected such a swift rejection. Without any hesitation or contemplation, the two had answered in an instant.
"You two can take some time to..." Qin Wuyou began, attempting to offer them a second chance.
But before he could finish, Yun Che interrupted, "I appreciate the offer, but our decision stands. We have our reasons, and we won't change our minds."
"But it's your chance to..." Elder Ya Yii began, attempting to persuade Retsu, but she firmly declined.
"No, thank you," Retsu politely refused.
Qin Wuyou was left speechless after hearing their answers. To be turned down by new disciples was an unexpected humiliation for him. As the headmaster, he had to swallow his pride and bear it.
He let out a sigh as Elder Ya Yii persisted in persuading Retsu, only to receive the same unwavering response. Elder Sikong Han understood the situation well. Disciples like Yun Che and Retsu likely had powerful backing, and their refusal hinted at hidden support.
Elder Wu Nie felt deeply humiliated. Even though he hadn't proposed to them, he found their rejection arrogant.
"BRAZEN! We lower ourselves to propose you become our disciples, and you repay us with humiliation?" Wu Nie snapped in frustration.
"Like you could do any better," Yun Che retorted, his tone laced with defiance as he refused to show deference to Elder Wu Nie. Knowing that Wu Nie's grandson had previously displayed arrogance in trying to win over Retsu with his power, Yun Che saw no reason to hold back. Qin Wuyou couldn't help but crack a faint smile, mildly amused by Yun Che's audacity in speaking against an elder. He decided to sit back and watch how this confrontation would unfold, and even Elder Ya Yii found herself entertained by the exchange. Elder Han, initially taken aback, soon sported a sly smirk. It seemed that if this stuck-up elder wouldn't listen to someone of his own age, perhaps a younger voice could bring some sense into him.
"You..." Elder Wu Nie was taken aback by Yun Che's audacity. In his entire life, people had always shown him respect. He was accustomed to being held in high regard wherever he went in the city. This was the first time a junior had shut him down like this.
"Listen, we chose to enter this palace, and we meant no disrespect. We refused your offer sincerely and politely. You accepted it, somewhat. Since when does becoming your disciple become compulsory?" Yun Che pointed directly at Elder Wu Nie.
"You speak as if we've chosen you for this matter. Well, if we did accept, we'd be reduced to being your errand runners. If we declined, you'd make things difficult for us. Choosing a master is our decision, not yours to dictate," Yun Che continued, emphasizing that he and Retsu had chosen to be disciples of Jasmine. Accepting another master would be a betrayal, and he had no intention of staying at the palace for long.
"No wonder that stuck-up grandson turned out just like you. Your disciple is probably becoming just like you now, huh?" Yun Che needled Elder Wu Nie, deliberately targeting his weak spot. He had planned to provoke this old man from the beginning.
"You... Looks like I need to teach you two a lesson," Elder Wu Nie seethed, his patience finally wearing thin. He was preparing to make a move when he felt his shoulders being restrained by an unseen force.
"Headmaster?" Yun Che turned around and saw Qin Wuyou firmly holding Elder Wu Nie's shoulders.
"You... I've tolerated you for long enough. Wu Nie, the young man is right. It's his choice whether to accept our offer or not. They declined politely. But you wanted to intimidate a junior just because he said no? Are you even acting like an elder? Consider this your final warning," Qin Wuyou said, releasing his imposing aura towards the old elder.
Elder Wu Nie felt a deep sense of fear welling up from the depths of his heart. Despite his clan's backing, his cultivation was still far from matching Qin Wuyou's.
He shot Yun Che a venomous glare, silently conveying, "This isn't over."
Qin Wuyou regained his composure and turned back to Yun Che and Retsu. "My apologies. We respect your choices for declining our offer, but it remains open if you ever wish to reconsider."
"As we've said before, we meant no disrespect, but we declined because we already have a master. Although changing masters is common, we want to honor our current master by sticking to her teachings. We apologize if our refusal has caused any offense," Yun Che replied politely once more.
"Your master?" The rest of the administrators were dumbfounded by this revelation.
"Our master is not currently present due to certain circumstances. Accepting your offer would be a betrayal of our loyalty to her, so we have chosen to decline," Retsu explained on behalf of Jasmine.
Qin Wuyou nodded in understanding. If this mysterious master had managed to produce two exceptional recruits, he reasoned it was best not to press further. He could only hope that these two would indeed elevate the palace to greater heights. It was regrettable that none of them could secure these promising talents as direct disciples.
"Then, my apologies for any disrespect toward your master. Regarding your achievements, we are promoting you to inner disciples immediately. You may stay in one of the inner disciples' residences. Take this token and present it to the person in charge of the residence; they will assist you," Qin Wuyou offered, handing them his headmaster's token as a gesture of goodwill. Since he couldn't take them on as disciples, he could at least provide them with a proper place within the palace.
"We thank the headmaster for this generous offer," Yun Che and Retsu replied, bowing respectfully.
"Then our business here is concluded. You three, let's go," Qin Wuyou declared before gracefully leaping away from the stage.
"Hmm, I had hoped to bring that girl with me," Elder Ya Yii expressed her disappointment, feeling she had missed out on recruiting Retsu.
"Let it go, Ya Yii. Besides, that kid wouldn't let her go that easily," Elder Han advised her.
"Hmph, the younger generation," she sighed before gracefully departing from the stage.
Elder Wu Nie couldn't resist one final glare in Yun Che's direction, only to be met with a cheeky grin as Yun Che raised his middle finger in defiance.
"You…" Elder Wu Nie wasn't entirely sure what Yun Che's gesture meant, but he was determined not to let today's events slide without consequence.
The audience erupted into chaos after the administrators left. These two had caused the elders to vie for their favor, and now they were rejecting offers and receiving the headmaster's backing? It felt unjust, as if the heavens themselves were playing favorites.
"Young master, what did that mean?" Retsu pointed to Yun Che's gesture towards Elder Wu Nie, seeking an explanation.
"Oh, that? Um... it's nothing, really. Just a gesture, nothing significant," Yun Che replied nervously, quickly hiding his hand behind his back. Retsu regarded him with a curious gaze.
"Really?" Retsu pressed, her curiosity piqued.
"Yeah... yeah... it's truly nothing," Yun Che reassured her, trying to divert her attention. "Come on, let's go. Food is waiting." He gently took Retsu's hand and led her toward Yuanba, who was still in shock from the recent events. Retsu blushed slightly as Yun Che held her hand, and Yun Che was relieved that she seemed distracted from his previous action. He had made up his mind to keep her away from learning that particular gesture; he hoped that beneath her violent exterior, Retsu was a sweet girl at heart.
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Nora_Danish
Nora_Danish Just a chapter today. Sorry for making cliff-kun haunt you. Since my story is quite slow on updating. My apologies. On the bright side, my thanks for your reviews.
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