Just as the four devilish beings sensed their impending demise, a palpable sense of dread filled the air. The ominous black vortex surrounding them began to slow its violent swirls, gradually losing its intensity. The once impenetrable black abyss at the center of the vortex started dissipating like smoke fading away into nothingness.
As the vortex vanished completely, leaving the four beings bewildered, they raised their heads to see the dragon hovering above them. Its majestic form exuded authority, and its draconic eyes scrutinized their very beings as if reading all their secrets effortlessly.
Slowly but surely, the dragon’s form started to transform, shedding its mythical embodiment piece by piece. In its place emerged Liang, appearing in his human form once again.
With a calm and commanding demeanor, Liang approached the four devilish beings, who regarded him with a mixture of caution and curiosity.
"Not bad," Liang remarked, his voice carrying a hint of appraisal. "I suppose your strength can be considered passable."
Upon hearing these words, the eyes of the four devilish beings contracted, their attention gripped by the weight of the silence that enveloped them.
"Hahaha, master, you have finally come," a familiar voice broke the stillness, prompting the five pairs of eyes to instinctively dart toward its source.
It was Yang Wu, whose expression visibly changed as he sensed the aura permeating the air.
"Yang brat, how do you know this man?" inquired the crimson-skinned devilish being, his voice tinged with bewilderment.
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"Oh, how do I know him?" chuckled Yang Wu, tipping his head back with a lighthearted smirk. "He’s none other than the Counselor himself."
Surprise flashed across the faces of the four devilish beings. Never had they imagined that this mysterious counselor, whom the tavern lord had mentioned, would possess such formidable strength.
The demonstration they had just witnessed was no weaker than that of a late-stage Divine Integration Realm expert.
Greeting Liang with a mix of respect and caution, the crimson-skinned devilish being spoke first. "I am Xul, the First Division Leader, A member of the Infernal Flame Clan. We are honored to meet you."
Behind him, the devilish being cloaked in shadows nodded in agreement. "I am Kael the Second Division Leader, from the Umbral Eclipse Clan. Your display of power is truly impressive."
The mysterious woman with graceful wings stepped forward gracefully. "I am Seraphina, The Third Division Leader, I came from the Twilight Wing Clan. Your presence here has intrigued us, esteemed counselor."
Lastly, the devilish being with obsidian skin spoke with a deep resonance in his voice. "I am Nyx, The Fourth Division Leader, I belong to the Obsidian Nether Clan, Your abilities have left a deep impression on us."
Liang nodded gracefully, a warm smile gracing his face as he addressed the group gathered before him. "It is truly a pleasure to meet each and every one of you," he began, his voice carrying a gentle tone of appreciation. "The Tavern leader has spoken highly of your remarkable contributions."
Xul couldn’t help but chuckle at Liang’s words. "Oh, dear counselor, you flatter us too much," he exclaimed, though his eyes sparkled with genuine amusement. "But truly, none of us would be standing here today if it weren’t for your exceptional plan four hundred years ago."
The remaining three equally impressed by Liang’s presence, nodded in resolute agreement. Their gestures reflected a deep respect and admiration for Liang’s wisdom and the impact of his visionary actions from centuries past.
Liang’s gaze shifted towards the direction of the village, his eyes scanning the surroundings as he spoke, his voice tinged with a hint of admiration, "It’s truly remarkable how much the Wandering Shadow Tavern has grown. I can sense the presence of approximately four hundred experts,"
Seraphina’s face lit up with intense fervor as she chimed in, her words filled with reverence, "This is all thanks to the Tavern Head’s reputation. He is truly an extraordinary man."
Kael nodded in agreement, acknowledging the impact the Tavern Head had made, "Many of the youth on the Umbral Expanse Continent hold him in high regard, and a great number of them aspire to join our ranks."
A sly smirk tugged at the corners of Liang’s mouth as he inquired further, "I see. And what about the Hundred Devil Union? Have they altered their ways or are they still rigid in their requirements?"
Seraphina shook her head, a touch of frustration in her voice, "Their requirements remain as stringent as ever. Joining them is no easy task."
Nyx, with an air of disdain, snickered, "They are a bunch of arrogant fools. Even if they offered me a thousand beautiful women, I wouldn’t be swayed to join them."
Seraphina shot him a piercing glare, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "I never thought I would hear such words from your mouth."
Kael burst into laughter, regaling them with a humorous anecdote, "Indeed, before he joined the Tavern, I heard he attempted to join the Union a staggering ten times, only to be rejected each time."
Nyx’s face darkened, his voice filled with embarrassment and denial, "Y-you two, that’s not true..."
Xul, the voice of reason, intervened, putting an end to the banter, "That’s enough. Let’s not embarrass ourselves in front of the counselor."
Liang smiled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Then let us focus on more important matters."
With that the group made their way towards the village, they could feel countless pairs of eyes watching their every move. The experts of the Wandering Shadow Tavern had gathered, their presence commanding and formidable.
Liang led the way, his steps steady and confident, as the four devilish beings followed closely behind him. As they walked through the bustling streets, murmurs and whispers filled the air, spreading like wildfire among the gathered experts.
"The Counselor has finally appeared!"
"Did you see that display of power? It was incredible!"
"I never thought I would witness such a formidable figure in my lifetime besides the Tavern Head."
The group finally arrived at a grand building located at the heart of the village. It stood tall and imposing, a symbol of power and prestige. The entrance was guarded by two burly figures, their expressions serious and focused.
One of the guards, recognizing the five individuals, quickly stepped aside and respectfully opened the doors. The group entered, greeted by the opulence and elegance of the interior. The grand hall was filled with expert cultivators from different clans and factions, their gazes fixated on the newcomers.
As Liang and the four devilish beings made their way towards the centre of the hall, the chatter died down, and a hush fell over the crowd. All eyes were trained on them, filled with curiosity and reverence.