As they continued moving through the city streets, the atmosphere gradually grew livelier, the scent of food and sound of chatter filling the air. Just then, Miao-Miao suddenly stepped closer and tugged lightly at Lin Xiao Tian’s sleeve, her tone carrying a hint of expectation.

"Master, what about the feast you promised us," she said, her eyes bright despite the earlier exhaustion.

Before Lin Xiao Tian could respond, Chu Yue glanced over with a faint smile forming on her lips. "Oh, so Sect Master is treating everyone, then I happen to know a place that would suit this occasion perfectly and perhaps offer more than just a simple meal."

Lin Xiao Tian raised a brow slightly but nodded without hesitation, his tone relaxed. "Since Fairy Chu is familiar with the city, I will leave the choice to you."

Free guidance, good food, and a meal with beautiful fairies maybe even some information from the chatter.

As they reached the place, Lin Xiao Tian’s steps slowed almost imperceptibly, his gaze lifting upward toward Chu Yue before shifting past her, and in that instant his expression turned... complicated.

There was a faint trace of horror in his eyes, yet at the same time his throat moved slightly as he swallowed, as if his body had its own opinion on the situation. The Hidden Leaf Pavilion stood proudly below, its entrance glowing with warm light as waves of rich, mouthwatering fragrance drifted outward, wrapping around the senses like an invitation.

But above it were layered balconies stretched outward, draped in silk curtains that swayed gently, revealing glimpses of another world entirely. Graceful women in flowing, revealing robes moved along those balconies and corridors, their garments light and loose, outlining their figures with deliberate elegance rather than crude exposure.

They leaned close to their guests, soft laughter spilling into the air as they guided them by the arm, fingers brushing sleeves, shoulders tilting just enough to close the distance.

Some whispered into the ears of the men beside them, their voices low and intimate, while others poured wine with slow, deliberate movements, every gesture refined yet filled with quiet temptation. The guests themselves were clearly not ordinary figures either, dressed in fine robes, their expressions relaxed, indulging in the atmosphere as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Lin Xiao Tian’s eyes lingered just a fraction too long.

Before he could even blink, Chu Yue’s hand shot out and firmly grabbed his cheek, pinching it without the slightest hesitation as she pulled his face toward her. "You seem to be enjoying yourself quite a lot, Sect Master," she said, her tone carrying a sharp edge wrapped in a teasing smile. "Admiring the scenery so openly, what a fine example you are setting for your disciples."

Lin Xiao Tian instantly snapped out of it, letting out a startled shout as he twisted free and hurriedly retreated behind Xiaoshan like a man escaping disaster. "That is a complete misunderstanding," he said quickly, raising a hand in defense, his tone unusually serious. "I was merely captivated by the aroma of the food below, nothing more."

Chu Yue narrowed her eyes slightly, clearly unconvinced, though the corner of her lips lifted into a mischievous grin. "The aroma of the food is it," she said slowly, her voice carrying just enough amusement to expose him completely.

She then waved her hand lightly, her tone relaxing. "Do not worry, Sect Master, I was only joking, you do not need to panic like that."

Hearing this, Lin Xiao Tian immediately stepped out from behind Xiaoshan, straightening his robes with quick, precise movements as he restored his posture. He lifted his chin slightly, forcing his expression back into calm dignity as if nothing had happened at all.

Behind him, the disciples were already struggling, some lowering their heads while others bit their lips, their shoulders trembling as they fought to keep their laughter from spilling out. Even Miao-Miao covered her mouth openly, her eyes sparkling with barely contained amusement.

Lin Xiao Tian coughed lightly and walked forward as if leading the group, his voice steady once again. "We are here for a feast, so let us not waste time standing outside."

One more second and that woman would have twisted my entire face off, absolutely unreasonable. 𝒻𝑟ℯℯ𝑤𝑒𝑏𝑛𝘰𝓋𝑒𝓁.𝒸𝑜𝘮

As they entered, Lin Xiao Tian’s gaze shifted subtly toward the disciples accompanying Chu Yue, only to notice several of them casting rather... intense looks toward Xiaoshan. He paused for a moment before casually patting Xiaoshan’s shoulder.

"Stay alert," he said lightly. Xiaoshan scratched his head in confusion, clearly unsure what exactly he was supposed to be alert about.

They soon settled inside, calling for a full spread of dishes as the table quickly filled with rich and fragrant food. Just as Lin Xiao Tian was about to sit down and finally enjoy the meal, Chu Yue’s voice cut in once again.

"Is Sect Master truly here only to eat," she asked, her tone light yet carrying a subtle edge.

A faint chill ran down Lin Xiao Tian’s spine as he paused mid-motion before nodding slowly. "Of course, Fairy Chu."

Chu Yue chuckled softly, clearly satisfied with the answer. "Good, but this place is not just known for its cuisine."

Her gaze shifted slightly as she continued. "The Hidden Leaf Pavilion is also the largest information and assassination network in the entire region, and it happens to be managed by... someone close to me."

Lin Xiao Tian’s expression did not change outwardly, though his eyes sharpened just a fraction. Food, information, and connections all in one place, this trip is turning out to be more profitable than expected.

Chu Yue leaned back slightly, her tone returning to casual ease. "We can gather detailed information about the other geniuses participating this year, and more importantly, about the secret realm before it opens."

Lin Xiao Tian slowly sat down, finally allowing himself to relax as a faint smile appeared once more.

Now this... is a proper feast.